Jedi Council Forums - Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst

Post Reply | Active Topic Notification | Previous Active Topic | Next Active Topic

« 147 | 148 | 149 | 150 | 151 | 152 | 153 | 154 | 155 | 156 - Previous | Next | Reload

Author	Topic: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 11/2/09
dianethx Registered: Mar '02	Date Posted: 9/22/08 4:05pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 6/28/08 and thanks for the noms - Date Edited: 9/22/08 5:34pm (3 edits total) Edited By: dianethx
	First of all, I'd really like to thank my readers for being so patient. Honestly, I was working on this for months and it just didn't want to work. I swear I have grey hairs from the darn thing. Hope it's good enough that you won't lynch me for making you wait this long. Sorry, sorry, sorry! Valairy_Scot – Nope, the next chapter is still on Coruscant. I thought we should see what Palpatine was up to. I am cruel, indeed. Thanks about the rooting for me. I didn't win but it was enough that people nominated me. I was quite happy about it. Family is very important in this story – biological family, Jedi family. I'm glad you picked that out! Yes, the Force wanted Obi-Wan to stay in the Order. This is a long-term issue. In some ways, the Force is moving this along. Obi is one of the main players, the catalyst for the beginning or the end to the darkness. You'll just have to see which it is. But while his anger should be directed at the Force (as you said), I don't see Obi-Wan doing that, either in this story or canon. Plus it's only been a couple of days. He's still reeling from all the revelations. Glad you liked it! wolf-kenobi – Yes, Obi-Wan's disillusionment is key here. He's been through so much and it's really up to him whether to give up on the Jedi or see it through to the end. Right now, he's so mixed up and exhausted that he's not making a clear decision either way. He just hasn't had time. Thanks. Musing – Both Xacor and Sle'fey are overconfident! Way overconfident. They believe that the Force is directing them toward this final confrontation but they are assuming a lot here. Plus it's still not certain if the Order is salvageable or that Obi will help them. They are indeed wearing blinders. But that's the nature of characters. Sometimes they make mistakes. Cliffhangers – oh but there's one more cliffhanger and then resolution in a couple of posts. It's almost over! Hurray! Thanks. JediNemesis – thanks. That is so lovely to say. I'm just happy that I still have readers since I don't post nearly fast enough. Luckily this story is long enough that I can give each character something to say and do and let them shine, if only for one or two posts. I had a great deal of fun writing Maul, I must admit. He's one sick puppy! But if you look at his upbringing, there wasn't really much he could have done to overcome his training. Glad you liked the OCs as well. I like to think of them as flesh-and-blood characters, really three dimensional. They have lives beyond what is going on here, even some of the ones who are on-screen for a couple of paragraphs. As for speaking roles in this story, I don't want to count either. It's got to be a lot! Nope, the next post is all Palpatine/Sidious. I thought we'd see just what he was doing. The post after that will be Anakin and Mace and Maul. It's not going to be pretty, as you said. Anakin needs to reign himself in and I don't see him doing that. Mace, too, needs to back off with Anakin and he's not doing that either. Fighters out of sync are not good! So glad you spotted the parallel between Mace/Anakin's conversation and Obi/Anakin's convo in the movie. I was thinking about that very scene when I wrote the little fight between them. I love Anakin even though he's sometimes a pain in the butt. He is impulsive and heroic and sweet and foolish. Great character! Thanks. DarkAnakinfan – Obi-Wan has a lot to be bitter about. He really can't tell whether they are still lying to him or trying to manipulate him. So he's very wary. LOL about Maul in the previous post. He is indeed evil. I just loved writing him! I'll add you to my PM list. Thanks. Cole_Kenobi – Thanks. Glad you liked it. Obi-Wan has very little to lose other than his life or Qui-Gon's. We shall see what happens! Thanks. Kitara – LOL. Yes, I don't believe that Obi-Wan trusts them either. Certain others? As in former Jedi? We shall see! Thanks. Brightfeather – It's been hard keeping it up. Driving me crazy but I'm determined to finish it. Only a few more posts and it's done. Thanks. jedidas3 – I love writing emotional stories. I'm just so fond of reading them that writing them just seems to be a given. Thanks, Padawan. I was so proud of you winning all those awards. Well done! Jedi_Perigrine – Thanks. I'm glad you liked it so far! Ocelotl_Nesto – I do love cliffhangers. Not this post but next is Mace and Anakin. Darth_Leia_6669 – LOL on Le'orath and assumptions. We shall see what happens next. Thanks for reading. Oh, back again. I do love twists and turns. Xacor and Sle'fey may be sincere but it's hard to tell with those two. And you are right about Qui-Gon. He's just such a great character that he'll face it with heroic fortitude. Thanks. Independence1776 – There's one more post below and then the roller coaster is in for a steep drop! Hold onto your hat! Yes, poor Obi. He's being manipulated yet again. Hopefully, someone will finally understand that the truth will set you free! Thanks for reading. Master_Noi – Trust needs to be earned and once lost, it's difficult to find again. Atel has also been learning to take a more critical approach to things. She does want to make it right between her and Obi-Wan. Hopefully that will come. Hee hee. Love to kill my readers with anticipation. The loose ends will be tied up, I promise. As for how bad can it get? With me, pretty darn bad! Thanks for reading. bek – Obi-Wan is a mess right now and I don't see that changing in the near future. Plus by confronting Palpatine, it could get ugly! Really ugly. LOL on Qui and Obi walking away from this. Maybe! Yes, Obi would have left if it wasn't for Qui-Gon agreeing to it and Obi feeling that he needed to protect him. I'm glad that the characters are working for you. Atel really wants to make it better but there is so much baggage at this point that we shall have to see if it will be enough. LOL, yes they all need a hug! Thanks. Leona – Thanks. You know how much I love language! I hate that Qui is cut off from the Force as well. It's not a good thing! bobafett15 – that's okay. No problem. Tahi – Don't worry about being late. I'm way later than you are. Yes, I wanted to show that Obi-Wan is still feeling the connection with those he loves but that he's learned not to trust the Council, even before this. Yes, it is an ominous sign. I do like drama. And angst! Gotta love the angst. Thanks. Jaira – LOL. Not just yet. But soon. Thanks. Kivas – I love cliffhangers. This next post is another one. Sorry about that! Thanks for reading. ardavenport – great to see you again. We'll have to hang out in Toni's room and talk costuming and writing at CC. There's more shock to come. I wanted the two fights to be simultaneous so I've tried very hard to have them coming together at the same time. As for Obi-Wan, he is really damaged at the moment from all the betrayals he's had to deal with. Qui was hurt in the beginning but has had time to overcome it. Obi-Wan, not so much. Glad you liked it. Thanks. mujapple-juicey – I think you should be worried. Anakin and Mace are having problems with Maul and the Council and Qui and Obi are about to face Sidious. Not a good thing. Poor Obi-Wan is indeed messed up. He's going to have to deal with his problems sooner or later. Just hope he has the time. Thanks for reading. Seremela – Yes, Le'orath isn't looking good at the moment. She's good for Qui-Gon but she may not live. We shall see. I'm glad you liked the side stories. I had a lot of fun writing them. I think Qui and Le' make a great couple and they've had a long time together. Maul will certainly have to fight to survive. We'll see if he does. I am evil. I do like cliffhangers but I've been pushing the plot along so that the cliffhangers are building tension. So we go from planet to planet and crisis to crisis. I can't tell you just who survives. Some will, some won't. You'll just have to see. As for Sidious and the fight building up, it's coming next. Obi certainly doesn't have a clean connection and he's going to have to fight without it. That could be bad! Thanks. I'm glad you liked it. Unfortunately, I'm such a slow writer that it's embarrassing at times. Ah the whole of the story. I really didn't expect to write a sequel to But. I had a backstory and I knew that the sequel would have to take place at least 10 years in the future because otherwise it wouldn't have time to get all the pieces in place (Bendu, Sidious being overconfident, the decline of the Order). As for the Bendu, I wanted to show the Jedi before they were distracted by political problems, when they were there to commune with the Force and help those less fortunate. In the movie, all they seem to interact with are the leaders of planets. I wanted the Jedi to deal with the common people because that is where their strength would lie. I'm glad that the canon characters came through. I really try to make them as authentic and realistic as possible. I feel that an AU, especially one this off from canon needs to have a grounding in the main characters. I do love writing Qui, Obi and Ani. They each have such strengths and weaknesses that are wonderful to exploit. Especially Anakin who is headstrong but wants to do the right thing but has been damaged by slavery. The OCs, too, are real to me. They have their own problems and interesting quirks about them. I also want to throttle Atel at times but she does love her Master as a father. But she's also been tainted by Tharten so that she doesn't always do the right thing. I'm glad you liked Sle'fey and Xacor. I gave them characteristics of their respective cultures so Sle'fey is sneaky like a Bothan and Xacor more straightforward like a Zabrak. They were trying to do what was right but I think they made mistakes that cost Obi's trust. They were also ruthless in letting others get hurt in order to do the right thing in the end. I'm glad that came through. Yes, Obi doesn't trust them and they do agree that he shouldn't. LOL. You'll just have to see where it goes from here. Thanks so much. What a lovely review! Yes, you are on the PM list. mujapple-juicey – Thanks. Darth_Leia_6669 – Thanks. The vacation was wonderful. I had a great time. Arag-gon – LOL. I am evil. LOL Closer to the brink with every post. Yes, that's me. Glad you liked it. Ah, as for Yoda, I'm rather infamous for not liking the troll so I rarely write him in my stories. He's off doing something very important. You'll find out later. I can see that I'm torturing you with all this waiting. The new post is below. Thanks for reading. Sionnach-Airgid – Well, even though you've been off the boards for a while, I haven't really updated all that much. I'm so glad that you like the story. I worry sometimes that it might not be good enough. Thanks about being willing to buy it. I don't think Lucas would approve but it's a lovely thing to say! I also feel bad for Obi-Wan. He has given his whole life to the Jedi and they've treated him horribly. I hope that he will understand in time. As for the Order, if they survive, I would think that they would have to do something different, perhaps even dissolve it and let the Bendu try and fix the problem. Or not. I think you should be worried about Obi-Wan. He's so confused at the moment and it may get a lot worse! He might be able to help the Jedi regain their place and do the right thing but right now he just wants to leave. We'll see what happens. Thanks so much for reading. -----signature----- Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 11/2/09 jedidas3's Master Merlin - Diplomatic Immunity - http://boards.theforce.net/nswff/b10808/30459852
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
dianethx Registered: Mar '02	Date Posted: 9/22/08 4:12pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 6/28/08 and thanks for the noms
	My apologies. Life has been very real and on top of that I got the worst case of writer's block I'd ever had. I've been working on this post for weeks and weeks and it was like slogging through mud. At least it's done! sigh of relief Sidious could feel that there was something amiss. He would have preferred the currents of the Force be stained with the rich oily black of tortured souls begging for death or the molten red of innocent blood. But instead there was only a shadowy murk; the greys of growing Lightside filth were all but polluting the darkness. There were warnings there, of hidden agendas and dangers yet unseen. It would appear that the Jedi scum were trying to corrupt the Force with their good intentions. He supposed that he should be amused. After all, they were insignificant, insects all, trapped in their Codes and duty, incredibly blind to the fate that awaited them. But he'd be a fool to ignore the warnings and Darth Sidious was no fool. At least the traps were in place. He'd checked them a few hours ago and he was certain that nothing would survive should it come to a fight, not even Jedi. In that, he was satisfied. Turning back into Palpatine persona, he twisted around and began paying attention once more to the prattlings of Senators hovering in his office. He had to admit that at least the Jedi trash has some integrity, that they weren't willing to do anything for power - well except for Tharten and her cronies. But the creatures in the room had no such compunction. Instead they were quite willing to killing their own hive-mates or the younglings under their care or any other sentient being who got in their way. So much for Senatorial principles. Indeed, before him was a perfect example of what the glorious Senate had become. A mixture of oily syncophant and fool, the cretin, Kenth Zaros, head of the Oversight Committee on Jedi Affairs, stood before him. He was obviously trying to garner attention. His tunic alone would be enough to guarantee that. It was a blazing eyesore, full of red and eye-popping yellows, the corusca gems edging his sleeves worth a Core planet's yearly revenue. The man should be gutted like the slime he was, the insignificant worm. Palpatine would have liked a little sport but instead of watching the Zaros's blood soaking the carpet in streams of hot liquid, he had to nod gravely and try to look interested. "Supreme Chancellor, I welcome this opportunity to see Jinn brought to justice, murderous coward that he is." The rat-faced simpleton was rubbing his hands together, and snickering. Palpatine tried not to laugh at the sight. It was just too absurd. The brazen peacock knew nothing of justice. However, he had to play to his audience. He put on his most benevolent yet concerned look, the grandfatherly visage, one that had fooled so many before. He shook his head, saying, "Yes, I was shocked when I heard the news. Jinn certainly has much to answer for." Zaros nodded eagerly. "He deserves his fate. Master Tharten was a good administrator, Jedi though she was, and she certainly knew how to manipulate those ruffians into accepting their situation. She was fair-minded, tenacious and tough, honorable, too - unlike most of the Jedi. She was quick to understand how scarce resources are these days and always willing to trim her budget in order to help the Republic. A true leader." "Indeed she was. Master Tharten will be sorely missed." Palpatine bowed his head for a moment, pretending to be saddened by the event. "Well said, Supreme Chancellor." Zaros looked almost as if he would miss Tharten. Perhaps, he would. She certainly made the fool's job that much easier. "It will be more difficult now to keep those idiotic Jedi in line. They have no idea of basic economics and are incapable of money management. We may need to take over the Council ourselves." That would never do. He was so close to the final eradication of the Jedi that any interaction with the Senate might force his hand. He would have to squelch that idea and quickly. "Representative Zaros... Kenth, while I understand the need for frugality, it would be unwise to pull people from the other Senate committees at this time. Besides, you are doing such a splendid job that I cannot see interfering with that." Zaros beamed. "Supreme Chancellor, I don't know what to say. Your continued support has given me new hope that we can get past this debacle with Jinn and move onto a leaner, more compliant Jedi Order." "I am sure you are right. Luckily, the Jedi have realized their place. But I must remind you that I cannot be seen to be prejudiced in this case. After all, I must remain impartial, a leader to all the people, not just to those in power but the lower classes as well." He looked out the window, into the distance. "While I applaud their decision, it is the Jedi who have condemned Jinn, not this office. I hope you understand the difference." The over-dressed fool nodded, saying smoothly, "Of course, Supreme Chancellor. The Jedi must take full responsibility. I...." A soft chime and Palpatine looked up to see his secretary gesturing to him "Excuse me, Representative Zaros. Duty calls." Without a backward glance, not even listening to the synophant's apologies, he moved to his desk and wating for the incoming message. It was that annoyance, Amidala of Naboo. Sitting down, he tried to look interested but it was an effort. The woman was tiresome at the very least and sometimes an impediment to his plans, a fact that made him increasingly frustrated. She'd avoided several assassination attempts, too. She was either extraordinarily lucky or more wily that she appeared. In either case, he would need to get rid of her soon. Putting on a mask of somber but weary concern, he said, "Senator Amidala, to what do I owe this pleasure?" "My apologies, Supreme Chancellor. I know I am imposing on your time but one of our Naboo citizens, Qui-Gon Jinn, a hero in the liberation of Naboo, has been arrested by the Jedi. But no charges were filed. As you know, the Naboo government should have been informed as to the charges and the defendant given legal council as required by Senate decree. When I contacted the Jedi Temple about this, they told me to contact your office. I know that this is something of a local poblem but I have been unable to get any information. Are you aware of such an arrest?" "Senator, indeed I am." This was too delicious an opportunity. Her naivete was begging to be crushed. Looking down at his steeped fingertips, he closed his eyes, as if too weary to cope with one more problem. He waited for a few heartbeats to increase the tension of the moment. Then finally, his voice resigned, he looked up at her and shook his head. "Jinn's behavoir has been appalling. He apparently killed four mine owners on Telos, has been slave-trading for several years and there is a list of other infamous evils perpetrated by this man. Jinn deserves his fate." She turned pale but the little fool just kept prattling on, "I cannot believe it, Chancellor. I've known Master Jinn for many years. There must be some mistake." "No mistake." Palpatine shook his head and shrugged defeat. "Unfortunately, even if he were innocent of the other crimes, while imprisoned awaiting trial, he killed the head of the Jedi Council, Master Sera Tharten." He leaned forward, staring at her, savoring the moment. "In cold blood. There were several witnesses. He is condemned to pay the ultimate price." "Condemned?" For an instant, she looked like one of those deep-sea fishes that, once pulled from the oceans, were left to drown in air. She was pathetic, her eyes bulging, her mouth open wide in astonishment. Then she seemed to gather strength, protesting, "Even if he did murder someone, he would need to be tried in a court of law. Who was his legal council? I would like to talk with his lawyer and find if there has been an appeal filed. I can't stand by and let this go." "Senator, I have nothing to do with his sentence. The Jedi have condemned him, not I." "Sir, you cannot let this happen, not without a proper trial in the courts. It's..." He cut her off in mid-sentence. He knew from past experience that once Amidala thought something needed to be done with one of her insignificant pet projects, she would push and push and push until most gave way just to shut her up. He had neither the time nor the inclination to deal with her foolishness. Besides, baiting her was always, for want of a better word, amusing. "Senator, I am surprised that you would try and use your office in this way. Jinn has had his trial before the Jedi Council. Besides, my hands are tied. The Jedi, those guardians of peace and justice, have found Jinn guilty of murder, not I. There is nothing more I can do except carry out their sentence." Apparently the woman didn't know the meaning of defeat. "Supreme Chancellor, this does not make sense. Qui-Gon Jinn would certainly not murder anyone in cold blood. He's not capable of it." When he didn't say anything else, she turned stubborn. "Sir, if you will not stop this, I will have to go to the Courts and have it stopped." "Senator, you are most welcome to try. If there has been a mistake, I would be remiss in ignoring it." Sounding both resigned and hopeful, as if he really wanted her to go to the courts and remedy the situation, he told her, "But you will have to be quick. His execution is scheduled for this evening, in an hour or so from now." "Then I better get started." She straightened, looking every inch a former queen. "I'll stop this, Supreme Chancellor. I promise." And with that, her image dissolved into a blue haze and then into nothing at all. Snickering under his breath, he muttered, "Better hurry, Senator." ******************************* As the time grew closer for Jinn's farce of an execution to begin, a small cadre of Senators, their lackeys and the ever-servile Representative Zaros remained. They seemed eager to see a former Jedi brought low and Palpatine could understand why. He looked around the room, watching each being in turn as they preened and sneered, made disparaging remarks about the Jedi or remembered Jinn's exploits while he had still been in the Order. Each of them had had an altercation with Qui-Gon Jinn on one or more occasions and had been made poorer for it, either through loss of wealth or the relinquishment of power in their systems. Now they were here to participate in something very special - revenge. Of course, he could not appear to be anything but impartial. Yes, as Supreme Chancellor, he would see that justice was done; he was required to do so. But he could not be the one condemning him. Luckily, the Jedi had accomplished that part all by themselves. Now he was waiting for the final hour when Jinn would appear and be led away out of the control of the Jedi and into the execution chamber. Sidious had originally planned for an escape, one that would have had Jinn falling into his hands and away from prying eyes. But that would have left the fate of the prisoner unknown to the Jedi and it might have raised questions. They might have even tried to pursue him. That could be a problem. Instead, upon reflection, he had decided that the execution would take place after all. Jinn would be killed or at least appeared to be killed by the Senate guards while the Jedi watched. It would be easy enough to fool them. A poison mixture, one that caused no pain but merely shut down bodily functions, was usually used in criminal terminations. In fact, the compassionate idiots in the Senate had insisted upon it - an humanitarian gesture, something about refusing to cause unnecessary anguish to the prisoners in their last moments of life. Absurd folly but the Senate cretins had also made it stunningly simple to manipulate the final outcome. Witnesses would see a man executed before their eyes. What they wouldn't realize was that the right choice of poison and pharmaceuticals would guarantee that the prisoner was merely on the edge of death and not lost for all eternity. More importantly, with the Force choked with a dark mixture of revenge and blood-lust from the Senators, even the Jedi would not be able to see through the deception. The spectacle of it would be his to savor - the last gasp of a dying man, the sound of triumph from the audience, and perhaps even an outpouring of anger-tinged grief from Kenobi. The Jedi Council would stand around, looking ineffectual; some might even mourn the old rsshak slime's death. Sand-fleas, all of them, hopping around in a frenzy of emotion but yet they would be unable to change a thing. And when the Jedi had gone back into their gilded cage, he'd have the final triumph. Another application of drugs, judicious use of the Darkside and Sidious would - in a manner of speaking - be able to bring the dead back to life. Until, of course, he tortured the man to death, until there was nothing left but a mound of cooling flesh at his feet. He was looking forward to it. But alas, there was no more time for pleasant anticipation. The turbolift doors outside his office opened wide and vomited out the Jedi and their prisoner. As expected, Jinn was at the center, surrounded by the Jedi; his hands were aglow with the blue haze of Force cuffs and he looked as if he were in pain. Beside him, Kenobi stood fury-rigid, his usually bright spirit in the Force clouded with a mixture of fear and blood-red anger. It appeared as if this confrontation must be affecting Kenobi more than expected; Sidious was pleased. It might be easier to Turn the Knight than he had thought. Of course, Kenobi's pitiful little fool of a Padawan followed behind, dutifully guarding his back. The rest of them crowded into his antechamber, Sle'fey and Xacor and several others, a total of twelve beings including Jinn. For a single execution, the number was surprising. It would seem that the Jedi were taking this matter very seriously, suspiciously so. It was odd, too odd to ignore. He would have to remain cautious but he was not alarmed. After all, the traps were set and it would only take a moment to trigger them. He gestured for the Republic guards to close in, surrounding the Jedi on three sides, and then beckoned the group forward. The bystanders, Senators and their assistants along with Representative Zaros, were scattered about the room but now gathered quickly into knots of anger. Muttering among themselves, mouthing sharp little bursts of noise that seemed to gather into a muted roar, they appeared to be out for blood. Palpatine sat back down behind his desk, staring at the tableau. It was almost perfect - the Jedi scorned, Jinn in chains, Kenobi glowering, the encircling mob baying for Jinn's death. He would have liked to savor the Darkness but he had a part to play. "Senators, please. This is not entertainment but a serious matter. Enough!" He rarely raised his voice but this was one of those times and it had the expected effect. Astonishment rippled in the air. As everyone in the room looked at him, the silence was absolute. Now that he had their attention, he played the audience, lifting his head high, trying to look outraged and yet resigned. He was the gentle yet strong commander, determined to do what was right for the galaxy. No one would ever think anything amiss. Instead, by following the rules of law, by refusing to show favoritism to one of the citizens of his home planet of Naboo, he was showing that he put the Republic first, that the principles of sacrifice and duty were more important than his own political agendas or private opinion. It was absurd theater and he reveled in it. "Master Xacor, I thank you for your diligence in this matter. We all mourn Master Tharten's death. It was a tragic loss but I think she will rest easier knowing that her murderer will pay the ultimate price for his treachery." "Yes, the death of Master Tharten has affected all of us." Xacor's eyes flicked to Jinn and back again. "We welcome this opportunity to show the Republic that the Jedi will continue to be the arbiters of justice, even in these difficult times." "Well said, Master Xacor. I know that the Jedi have had problems of late but with the proper guidance, the Order will come out of this situation better and stronger than before." As the Zabrak bowed his agreement, Palpatine tried not to smirk. Xacor was certainly playing his part and it was becoming clearer by the moment that the man would be a good choice for head of the Jedi; he had just the right touch of subservience and seemed to take direction well. Things were looking up. However, turning his gaze back to Jinn, something caught at Palpatine's attention, giving him pause. The former Jedi was not playing the expected role. Instead, he was standing there, impassive, no fear playing across his face, no sheen of sweat showing how terrified he was. The man didn't even seem upset. Sle'fey, on the other hand, was indignant, his white fur whirling with emotion. He stalked over to Palpatine's desk, standing right in front of him, glaring. "Supreme Chancellor, this is unacceptable. I thought this was going to be a private occasion, not a spectacle for a crowd of Senators who are all known to have ...issues with former Jedi Jinn." Palpatine ignored him, turning instead to Xacor, "Master Jedi, I thought we had already discussed Master Sle'fey's part in all this." He sent a frown toward the Bothan. "He should have remained at the Temple." "Your pardon, Supreme Chancellor, but he is here to see justice done," said Xacor. "I will vouch for his behavior." "See that you do." He sent an icy glare towards Sle'fey and then turning back to Xacor, his voice sharp with annoyance, Palpatine continued, "Do you have the documents detailing the charges against the murderer? As you know, we cannot expedite this execution without following the proper protocols. The courts, the Senate and the Republic demand that we follow procedure to the letter." He glanced around the room, making sure that all were watching as he put the Jedi in their place. "And I will accept nothing less." "I agree, Supreme Chancellor. We will follow proper procedure." Xacor pulled out a datapad and placed it on the desk. "This contains all the charges levied against former Jedi Qui-Gon Jinn and the Jedi Council's final determination." As Palpatine began to read, from out of the corner of his eye, he could see the Jedi spreading out, their movements causing the surrounding Republic guards to back away slightly - not enough to alarm but they did seem to be creating space to maneuver. It felt wrong; it felt like they were planned something. And then, as he kept reading, he realized why. Impossible! The fools, the damnable, slimy muck-worms, had found Jinn innocent on all charges. This was too much. They deserved to be evicerated, using all the powers at his command to torture them until they screamed out the end of their pitiful lives, until there was nothing left but bone and steaming meat. Vermin, every last one of them. However, much as he wanted to destroy the Lightside scum, now was not the right moment. Instead, in a clear, sharp voice, he said, "Is this some kind of sick joke? Because if it is, it is in poor taste." Xacor straightened, looking impossibly smug. "Not a joke, Supreme Chancellor. After looking over the evidence, the Jedi Council has dropped all charges with regard to former Jedi Qui-Gon Jinn. As you know, as per Republic order AA-6827, the Jedi Order has jurisdiction over former members of the organization and their determination is final. He is hereby released from our custody." Palpatine wanted to gut the damned fool. He'd been outplayed. By Jedi. All his work to arrange Jinn's death had come to nothing. Those self-righteous insects! But before he could say anything else, a collective howl of anger shot through the room. The Senators and their parasites were all sound and fury, their fists or claws or suckertips waving around frantically as if they were ready to deal their own rough justice. Obviously, once their small minds had caught on to what the Jedi were saying, they must have realized that there would be no execution today, at least not an official one. The rabble were ready for blood and they would not be denied. Even Zaros, idiot that he was, shouted, "This is an outrage. You've gone too far, Jedi." At least the overdressed fool was good for something. Palpatine's perspective sharpened from fury back into retribution. It was possible that he could play the Senators after all and get them to kill Jinn for him. Being torn apart by an angry mob was almost as good as torturing Jinn himself - almost. Glancing back at Xacor and Sle'fey and the rest of the Jedi, he could see the apprehension growing on their faces. They must have realized that they were greatly outnumbered, not just with the Republic guards but surrounded by beings out for revenge. Their hands dropping down to their sabers, the Jedi looked as if they were preparing for a fight. He had to admit, though, that Xacor was calm enough when he said, "If you would remove the cuffs, Obi-Wan, Master Jinn is free to go." "Stop!" Freeing Jinn was the last thing Palpatine wanted. "I forbid it." Kenobi acted as if he hadn't heard a thing he'd said. The Knight reached for Jinn's Force cuffs and it was only a quick reaction of one of the guards, his pike at the ready, the threat clear, that prevented Jinn's liberation. Almost instantaneously, Kenobi's saber was in his hand, still unlit but his thumb hovered over the switch. The man looked ragged, almost savage, certainly unbalanced. If Palpatine hadn't had his own problems, he would have been amused. Kenobi was obviously having problems with control - a thing to exploit under other circumstances. On the other hand, Sle'fey acted as if he wanted to diffuse the situation. He said softly, "It will be all right, Obi-Wan. I promise you." Kenobi's look of pure disbelief was a thing of beauty. For a moment, Palpatine thought that he would ignore the Jedi Master's words but finally Kenobi nodded, lowering his saber. He couldn't help but notice that the Knight was frowning sharply, his face white with hostility. "Supreme Chancellor, you have no authority in this matter," Sle'fey protested. Then he turned to the guard and said, "Stand aside." So it would appear that the Jedi were actually going to try and defy him after all. They were in for a rude awakening. As expected, the guard only shook his head at Sle'fey's command and remained where he was. Palpatine's guards were hand-picked for loyalty and the brute was certainly doing his job well. It was a stand-off. The Jedi would not dare to maim a member of the Republic guard doing his duty; it would not look good in the eyes of the Senate and it would certainly be used against them in the next round of dismissals. It didn't matter. The Jedi were doomed. They didn't even realize how close they were to extinction. Fools - refusing to use the Force for their own ends, ignoring infinite power for small-minded compassion. They deserved their fate. The rest of the room had quieted by now; the Senators and their lackeys were standing there, waiting. It would appear that the rabble wanted to see how he would play the situation before they took matters into their own hands. Besides, if he would be the one to have Jinn executed, they would not have to soil their worthless reputations. Miserable cowards, the lot of them. He did not let his audience wait long. "This is absurd, Sle'fey. He murdered Sera Tharten in cold blood. You told me that yourself." Sle'fey glanced back, looking at the tense crowd before he turned to him and barked out, "The holovids proved otherwise." Leaning forward, paws splayed on the desk, he said loudly, "In fact, she explained herself quite thoroughly in the vids before she died, Chancellor." What was the rsshak slime talking about? Explanations? This was no longer about the execution of a simple-minded ex-Jedi. Sle'fey, truly devious as only a Bothan could be, was planning something. Indeed, the Force was growing darker, more dangerous by the moment. There was something there that couldn't be ignored, something that was vital to his future and the future of the Sith. He could feel it. It all hinged on Sera Tharten. That muck-brained little fool could not have betrayed him. She didn't have had the nerve. But if she had, then he'd better make sure the Jedi would be in no position to accuse him of anything. "Master Tharten was murdered and you have just let her killer go. I have to wonder if the Jedi are capable of judgment in this. Or anything else, for that matter. Justice will be served." He leaned forward, staring directly into Sle'fey's eyes. "With or without the Jedi Order." The Bothan animal ignored the obvious threat, instead shoving a data crystal at him. "She was going to assassinate Qui-Gon Jinn. Acting under the direct orders of a man who called himself...," his voice lowered into accusation, "Darth Sidious." For the merest faction of a second, Palpatine was taken aback. Tharten had betrayed him. She had betrayed him. If she weren't already dead, he'd have shredded her worthless carcass until there was nothing left but a few bone fragments and a pool of blood on his carpet. Behind his Palpatine facade, his fury began to claw at his shields, his mind screaming obscenities. He wanted to destroy them: the Jedi, the insects in the Senate, that corpulant mudfowl, Zaros - wipe them out, every last one of them. They deserved annihilation and he would be the one to deliver it. But the time was not just yet. And so with wild rage beating against his chest, he continued to show only a placid face and mild eyes. It was no small feat, even for him. Sle'fey seemed to be more perceptive than most. Nodding, radiating self-satisfaction, the Bothan scum looked as if he'd been expecting just such a reaction, as if he'd seen beyond the mask. "He is a Sith Lord, Chancellor," Accusation in his beady eyes, Sle'fey stared down at Palpatine and said flatly, "An enemy of the Jedi and the Republic." "The Sith have been extinct for a millenium." His voice sharp with scorn, Palpatine shot back, "Or would you have us believe in tales told to frighten little children?" In the crowd, there was a choking noise and several sharp whispers. But he ignored them. He had more important things to deal with. The Jedi scum were planning something. The Force was growing agitated, the darkness churning in the murky currents, warning him of danger. It was coming and fast. "He's real enough." Xacor said flatly. Sle'fey shrugged and pointed to the data crystal. "You might want to look it over carefully. I've sent a copy to the Judiciary Department. I am sure that they will be very interested in what she had to say." He shifted back, looking like he was ready to go into battle, standing there fingering his saber as he watched Palpatine. "We've also forwarded the other information on Sidious that we found in Master Tharten's files." "Files?" He couldn't believe it. That muck-brained Tharten had files. On Darth Sidious. He should have killed her when he had the chance. "Yes, Supreme Chancellor." Sle'fey was too calm, too sure of himself as he said, "Files that will prove that you conspired with Master Tharten to murder Qui-Gon Jinn." There it was - the danger to him and all his plans. The Jedi had been more observant than he'd expected. He thought it had been beaten out of them long ago. Rsshak scum. He could deny it, of course. But there was an easier way. All he had to do was blame the self-righteous Jedi. "Files that will prove that you have been an accomplice to the murder of over a thousand former Jedi in the last ten years." Sle'fey was still mouthing accusations but Palpatine's rage was already morphing into plans, his mind weighing the consequences of various scenarios. The energy of the Dark filled him and he used that to focus. It would be easy enough to push his enemies into making mistakes. They were incredibly short-sighted; he, on the other hand, took the long view. He was not concerned with their so-called evidence and besides, it would be simple enough to prove that the Jedi had manufactured it all. However, his supporters, the Senate rabble in the room, were looking increasingly worried, some of them glancing back at the exits and edging away from the Jedi. If things continued this way, he couldn't afford to let them escape. Eliminating them would be a minor nuisance but an acceptable loss of temporary allies. He might even enjoy it. He locked the escape routes, just in case. But the Bothan animal kept prattling on, oblivious to the danger. "Files that will prove you've been slave trading against Republic law as well as other illegal activities ranging from making deals with the Hutts over the spice trade to diverting weapons systems to the Separatists. You've also been blackmailing and sometimes killing Senators and former Senators who have refused your demands." There were a few gasps from the crowd. Some of the Senators in the room had been friends with those he had killed - not that it mattered. The dead had been useless fools and in his way. "Files that prove you are Darth Sidious." Sle'fey's litany ground to a halt. The scum had finally shut up. "This is beyond belief." Palpatine straightened, staring at the Jedi. As he kept talking, he made sure his voice quavered, pitching it so that there was just the right balance of disgust and astonishment coloring it. "I had always tried to help the Order maintain their place in the Republic, even when others would have dissolved it entirely." He forced tears into his eyes, enough to look as if he'd been blind-sided by friends and was only now realizing the treachery. "And to lie... to fabricate such accusations in order to cover your own incompetence is beyond anything I would have imagined. You wound me deeply." "Spare me the protestations, Chancellor. We have more than enough evidence to condemn you to the same fate you would have condemned Qui-Gon Jinn." With one wave of his paw, Sle'fey signaled the Jedi forward. Several of them drew out their sabers, still unlit but in their hands. Kenobi tried to shove past the one man standing between him and Jinn but the brute just stood there, glowering. The other Jedi were more successful, slipping away from some of the other Republic guards and starting to cluster around his desk. There was a clamor of alarm from the crowd; some of the Senators began skulking towards the exit. The puffed-up mudfowl, Zaros, was staring at him, mouth open in shock. His guards were busy powering up their pikes, aiming them at the Force users, threatening them with deadly skill. It was a tableau worthy of Sith Legend, that breathless moment before everything tipped into bloody war. The Jedi Order versus the Republic. The Jedi Order versus Darth Sidious. Perfect. "If you come with us now, I'm sure the courts will take your cooperation into consideration." Sle'fey was still looking quite smug; he must have been sure of himself but he would be in for a rude surprise. "You have no right to come in here and make false accusations." He was still playing to the audience but a slight gesture and the traps were powering up. He had merely to push one button and the place would be saturated with death. "This is insane." "The Jedi are still the guardians of justice, Chancellor Palpatine, and we will deliver you to the courts for trial - with or without your consent. Security Act or not, you've gone too far. " Sle'fey must have realized something was wrong because he looked suddenly wary. But he only said, "You are under arrest." They had gotten in his way for the last time. He stared up at Sle'fey, secure in the knowledge that everything was being recorded. He'd release the audio later, spliced, of course, after everyone in the room had been killed, his guards cut down by sabers as they defended him, the Senate muck-worms destroyed in the heat of battle. The outcry would be enormous, the Jedi Order declared outlaw, swept away by their own foolish actions. At last, their destruction was at hand. "They're trying to take over the Republic," he shouted, a frightened plea quavering in his voice. Scum all, the Jedi merely looked confused and the Senate fools more so. Did they think so little of him that they thought he'd go without a fight? Sle'fey barked out, "Chancellor, you....." Palpatine shrank back, waving his hands in front of him as if to stave off an attack. "Guards, help! They are trying to kill me." "Chancellor, enough of this. " Xacor came up to Sle'fey's side, his saber at the ready but still unlit. "You are under arrest." "They are insane." He began to wail, as if he were terrified for his life. "Help me!" The Republic guards surged forward, their pikes crackling with energy, aiming for the Jedi. One of them shouted, "Get away from him." Then shoving his weapon forward, he jabbed at the Zabrak Master. Not fast enough, the energy charge caught Xacor along one arm and he dropped back, grunting in pain. Snap-hiss. The strident sound of igniting lightsabers was all it took. Chaos erupted across the room - electro-pikes spitting furious energy, Senate fools screaming as they panicked and ran for the exits, the thud of overturned chairs, the sharp shattering discord of breaking glass. Watching the pandemonium, Sidious smiled satisfaction. But he thought he should add one last touch. In a quavering, terrified voice worthy of a holovid star , he wailed out, "Rebels! Assassins! Help, they are trying to kill me." Then he sprung the traps. Lightning ripped across the air, the blue light crackling madly as it seared through flesh and bone. Red blasts of plasma energy shot through the air, catching at beings who screamed out their agony. The room was filled with the dying and the dead. He had won. And it was glorious. -----signature----- Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 11/2/09 jedidas3's Master Merlin - Diplomatic Immunity - http://boards.theforce.net/nswff/b10808/30459852
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
ardavenport Registered: Dec '04	Date Posted: 9/22/08 5:42pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	Hmmmmmmmm, hmmmmmmmmmmmm, I'm thinking that the Jedi were ready for everything, buuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut, there's not a lot of room for that in this. You leave me looking for the next scene. And you can't write Palpatine too evil. But I'm really wondering what's going on in Obi-Wan's head. Him being that angry, when he's around Sidious, is more worrisome than the traps. -----signature----- Links to all fics -- http://boards.theforce.net/Message.aspx?topic=25405090&brd=10304&start=26223917 The Heart of the Jedi -- http://boards.theforce.net/b/b1/26013327 ---- Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, JA and everything you wanted to know about lightsabers
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Musing Registered: Oct '03	Date Posted: 9/22/08 7:01pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	Boy, you sure do things even-handedly, dianethx! Even Palpatine gets betrayed by the Jedi. Heh. But that's only a smidgen of what he deserves. You also seem to like leaving us with cliffhangers in seemingly hopeless situations. Le'orath's still stuck with Maul, and now you've got Palpatine going all Sithly. Even though it's been giving me gray hairs, you're doing a great job with Betrayal, dianethx .
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Jedi_Perigrine Registered: Apr '08	Date Posted: 9/22/08 8:10pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	<shakes head> Even in a bout of severe writer's block you still manage to put together something so well written that it makes me jealous. So well planned, so intricately plotted. Such amazing characterization of Sidious. This is awesome, I'm glad you've updated it! I hope to heck you can update this again soon! Amazing job! -----signature----- Check out the Talons! They RULE! http://boards.theforce.net/beyond_the_saga/b10477/28126755/p1 I can't believe Darth Writer's Block only abandons me for NaNo. Final NaNo word count: 54515
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Valairy_Scot Registered: Sep '05	Date Posted: 9/23/08 12:35am Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	Once again, Diane, your language is nearly intoxicating and powerful, dripping with evocative images. I see Palps pulled the same "Jedi traitors" quivering voice he did in the novel (wasn't that the novel?). He thinks he has the upper hand - and probably not for at least 2 chapters will we readers see if that is confirmed or not. Now I've got to go back and rework my ready-to-be-posted chapter because I daren't put it up within days of yours - it would look so paltry and superficial in comparison. <hangs head> Tour de force! -----signature----- http://boards.theforce.net/fan_fiction_resource/b10304/25405090/p3/?52 Prolific Author thread: list & links there. Muse fueled by coffee. Often AWOL despite frequent sipping. Writes on inspiration, not a schedule. 2007-2008 the quality years
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Seremela Registered: Jul '08	Date Posted: 9/23/08 1:04pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	YES, A NEW CHAPTER!!! doing happy dance And what a chapter, wow! You write Sidious great - how he perceives the Force, his thoughts and how he puts on his Palpatine facade. How he plans for every possibility even if he thinks he has won and seeing the Jedi through his eyes.... He's truly evil and so smart, truly Sidious. And yes, another evil cliffhanger, because he seems to have won! No, no, no, this is too horrible! And I'm afraid that now you'll be going back to Naboo. Of course I want to know what's happening there but... but... Qui-Gon and Obi! And all the other Jedi! And Sidious' evil plans to blame them for all the death and destruction! With on top of it all the disturbing image he has of Obi-Wan through the Force.... "It will be all right Obi-Wan" - not very likely dianethx posted: As for the Bendu, I wanted to show the Jedi before they were distracted by political problems, when they were there to commune with the Force and help those less fortunate. In the movie, all they seem to interact with are the leaders of planets. I wanted the Jedi to deal with the common people because that is where their strength would lie. I think you did a great job with that. It's why I love your Bendu, dianethx, it's what the Jedi should have been IMO (and how I saw Qui-Gon in the movie) -----signature----- Winner of WWTF round 2
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Gkilkenny Registered: Mar '04	Date Posted: 9/23/08 4:19pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	You write that Devil so well and if I wasn't so against him winning anything. I would say his act of the poor innocent Chancellor would see him win. If he outmanoeuvred them and actually killed the Jedi without them knowing it was a trap then it is sad to say he should win. Though I don't think you would be that mean to let him win totally. Surely the Jedi aren't that gullible. I can’t wait to see what you come up with in the next post. If the last one was hard to write then the next one will be too. Who should die and who should live I could give you my list of Jedi to save but I'm sure you have your own. Excellent. -----signature----- Proud Padawan to p_stotts Peace over anger - honour over hate - Strength over fear. Links to Stories in my Bio. Obi-Wan forever.
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Healer_Leona Title: Manager Emeritus Registered: Jul '00	Date Posted: 9/24/08 9:28am Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	Oh no, it can't the that easy for the Sith to win. Adored Sidious' musings on everything. Evil bastage!!! -----signature----- Break away from everybody Break away from everthing If you can't stand the way this place is Take yourself to higher places
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Ocelotl_Nesto Registered: Oct '04	Date Posted: 9/24/08 1:52pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	OOH... Very well written. You get into Palpy's head well... I hope the Jedi get a crack at him before they become outlaws.
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Kivas Registered: Mar '05	Date Posted: 9/25/08 3:38pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	Great post, I am certain the Jedi were ready for some treachery - along with I am guessing the Amidala is involved somehow -specifically the recordings. -----signature----- Spectres they may be, Your spectres they are Hurt you they can.
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
jedidas3 Registered: Apr '07	Date Posted: 9/26/08 5:21am Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	Wow! Where do I start Master? Wonderfully written. Palpatine was perfectly done. I guess that really should sum up the post...sheer perfection! Can't wait to see what's going to happen next! -----signature----- New Story: No Regrets http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/29659791/p1/?18 See bio for complete list of stories
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
PadawanKitara Registered: Dec '01	Date Posted: 9/30/08 11:11pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	I get side tracked on a plane from Monterey and come back home to this???? Runs for closest place to hide (nope- not there, she hid a cliff in that closet) oh noooooo- left the bungee cord on the planeeeeee -----signature----- Courtier of the Royal Order of Shambling Dufi We are Dufi...Resistance is Futile! UCLA BRUINS
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
JediNemesis Registered: Mar '03	Date Posted: 10/1/08 2:41am Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	Interesting that Sidious underestimated Tharten. Relying on people's terror is one thing, but he doesn't tend towards that kind of misjudgement. Of course the alternative is that the Jedi are bluffing (about the content of the files; the confession was real), and that they actually haven't got a shred of evidence that would stand up in court. And of course no matter how quickly Palpatine acts, there will be rumours. Because there always are . . . And Amidala now getting involved? Hey, is she going to walk in at the crucial moment, last-minute pardon in hand, and see the carnage? Loved the last line. Awesome cliffie -----signature----- BeTS Best Author '08 NEW Bad Dreams - http://boards.theforce.net/a/b1/29893091 Eleven Summers - http://boards.theforce.net/a/b1/29657584 Into The Shining Day - http://boards.theforce.net/a/b1/29224914
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
bek Registered: Jul '05	Date Posted: 10/2/08 1:59pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 9/22/08
	I think Obi-Wan should have just sliced and diced the guard and freed Qui-Gon from his binders. But of course, that's not Jedi like behavior or thinking. I hope those two stick close to one another during all this. Their former training together may come in handy being they know one another so well. I liked that fact that the Jedi led Palpatine on for a time before showing their cards and betraying him like he betrayed them. Palps sure does have it in for old Jinn. I hope Palps plan of playing hypocrite to the public in order to show the Jedi in a bad light backfires on him. Wonderful job with this Diane! Can't wait to see the outcome of this confrontation. -----signature----- Update 6/23/09 - Chap. 42 - Life Beyond the Code (OWK/Anakin) - Saga Update 9/3/08 - Strength to Begin Anew - (OWK/QGJ/Xan) - Saga Update 9/24/09 - Stuck in Yesterday - NM Sequel Update 11/23/09 - Somewhere in the Middle - (OWK/QGJ) - Before Saga
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History

« 147 | 148 | 149 | 150 | 151 | 152 | 153 | 154 | 155 | 156 - Previous | Next | Reload