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Topic:
Polar Beings - COMPLETED - Link to Sequel Posted
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jpauln
Registered:
May '05
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Date Posted:
6/17/05 2:14am
Subject:
Polar Beings - COMPLETED - Link to Sequel Posted
- Date Edited:
2/2/06 12:56am (63 edits total)
Edited By:
jpauln
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Title: Polar Beings
Author: jpauln
Timeframe: Intertrilogy/AU - Around 5 years after ROTS
Main Characters: Sidious, Vader, Obi-Wan, Yoda
Genre: Adventure, Action, Mystery with some Humor thrown in.
Summary: Five years after the rise of the Empire, events unfold that will change the galaxy forever. Through the Force, a psychic link is discovered between the Emperor and Brian Hughes, a man from Earth. After switching places, Brian, now trapped in the Emperor's body, finds himself as Vader's prisoner while Sidious makes plans to expand his Empire on Earth. A fugitive smuggler and a pair of exiled Jedi are all that stand between Sidious and the total domination of a galaxy not so far away…
Keywords: Polar Beings, Sidious, Vader, Obi-Wan, Yoda
Disclaimer: Starwars and all related Starwars characters are property of George Lucas, this is purely for entertainment purposes only.
Notes: Link to Sequel - Polar Forces
This story is listed on the The Obi-Wan Kenobi Fan Fic Index, Crossover Index and Discussion
"Just as the Force has polar sides, the light side and the dark, polar beings are there also. These beings, though opposite they may be, through the Force a powerful bond they share." - Yoda
Chapter 1 - Nightmares
Brian Hughes sat up gasping for breath. Sweat trickled down his forehead, stinging his eyes. Slowly his heart rate began to steady. It was only a dream. He looked at his alarm clock. 3:23 showed in bright red letters. Images flashed through his mind; cold and unpleasant images that represented a world he did not understand. A large room that was void of color save for the occasional green or blue that contrasted the steel gray and bleached white majority. Machines with hundreds of lit buttons, their functions and purpose he couldn’t fathom, decorated the wall nearby. Mechanical sounds that seemed both foreign and familiar buzzed in the air that was strong with the smell of crisp ozone and stale, filtered air.
These things he could handle. What he couldn’t handle were the strange companions that hovered around him. Always two men, if you could call them men, stood nearby never speaking. They wore dark robes and strange hats that reminded him of a distorted and twisted version of a Catholic Bishop. Their faces were pale and haggard, resembling the zombies Brian had seen in horror flicks. Two more men always stood across the room dressed in red. They wore featureless red helmets and carried weapons of some kind.
The other one, he was worse. Tall, much taller than Brian, and wearing all black, he was indeed much worse. A mask covered his face, dark and skeletal; it was meant to instill fear into the heart of men. That breathing. He clenched his eyes shut and took in a deep breath. In his mind he could hear the mechanical sound of the dark man’s breathing. Brian always woke with that sound in his head.
For three months Brian had been having these dreams, each getting worse than the last. It had now come to the point where the dreams seemed so real that he began to question whether or not they could be. Dr. Cromwell seemed to think they were his subconscious’ way of dealing with a traumatic experience from his childhood. Brian disagreed. He’d had a happy childhood with a loving family that, to this day, was still very close. Just last week he had been visiting with his parents, neither of who could recall a single experience in his 28 years that would have traumatized him. Despite their disagreements, Dr. Cromwell insisted that he could reveal the true source of the nightmares through a series of hypnotic treatments. Brian’s first session was in five hours.
After tossing and turning for an hour Brian decided to get up. He showered and ate a bowl of cheerios while watching a late night rerun of the Jerry Springer Show. The topic was ‘So I Married My Cousin’. If anyone should be having nightmares due to traumatic childhoods, it should be these people.
Brian arrived at Dr. Cromwell’s office at a little before eight-thirty. Sarah Hunter’s face lit up when Brian entered the reception area.
“Good morning!” She said, flashing him a big smile. “How have you been sleeping? Any better?”
Brian shook his head, embarrassed. “No, not really,” he said sheepishly.
“That’s too bad. I’m sure Dr. Cromwell will be able to help,” she said in a motherly way.
Brian was always embarrassed when Sarah asked him about his sleep. Technically she wasn’t supposed to discuss such things with the patients but they’d known each other since high school. He’d had a secret crush on her but had been too shy to ask her out and then they'd lost contact after graduation. When the nightmares became bad enough that he needed psychiatric help he’d been surprised to find her working as Dr. Cromwell’s receptionist. They’d caught up through small talk during his visits and that’s when he revealed he’d been having trouble sleeping. She’d been hinting that she’d like him to ask her out but he was too embarrassed. How could he ever earn her love and respect if he was a patient of the doctor she worked for? Besides, he was pretty sure she’d lose her job if they dated. Sarah was currently finishing a degree in teaching at the local University and wouldn’t need this job much longer. He’d promised himself that as soon as he was cured he would ask her out.
The phone on her desk rang and she answered. A moment later she hung up and looked at Brian.
“The doctor’s ready to see you now,” she said with a smile. As Brian got up and headed for Cromwell's door she grabbed his arm, stopping him. “I just wanted to let you know that if you ever need someone to talk, no matter what time it is, I mean I’m up late most nights anyways.” She placed a small piece of paper into his hand, smiling. “My number.”
“Sarah I don’t think that’s such a good idea,” he said.
“Well hang on to it anyways, just in case.”
He nodded and put into his pocket. “Okay Sarah. Thank you.”
Cromwell was sitting behind his desk when Brian entered the plush office.
“Good morning Brian. Have a seat.”
Brian sat down in a chair adjacent to the desk.
“How did you sleep last night?” Cromwell asked.
“I had another nightmare. It was similar to the ones before. I think they’re getting worse.”
Cromwell nodded thoughtfully. “I suspected they would. Hopefully today we’ll get to the root of your problem. Are you ready to begin?”
Brian nodded.
“Just lay down on the couch and we’ll get started.”
Brian got up and went to the couch. Laying down he closed his eyes and sighed. Cromwell pulled a chair close to the couch and sat down.
“Brian, I want you to relax. Clear your mind of all thought. I want you to hear only my voice. Imagine you are on a staircase with ten steps. With each step you will feel more relaxed. Brian, I want you to walk down that staircase and to find the bottom. When you reach the bottom you will be the most relaxed you have ever been. Are you at the bottom?”
“Yes.” Brian sounded a million miles away.
“Good. When I snap my fingers you will remember your last dream.” Cromwell snapped his finger and Brian gasped. “What do you see Brian?”
“A big room,” Brian said, a hint of fear in his voice.
“Brian, I want you to remember that no matter who or what you see they cannot hurt you. Do you understand?”
“Yes,” Brian whimpered. “I don’t like being here. I’m scared.”
“I know Brian, but everything is okay. Tell me about the room you’re in.”
“It’s gray. There are machines by the wall to the right of me. I am sitting in a kind of throne. The two tall men in red are by a mechanical door across from me. Two more men stand by the wall to the left of me.”
“Are they the same men you’ve told me about? The men with the hats?” Cromwell probed.
“Yes. They are looking at me like they can hear me speak. I think they’re wondering who I’m talking too. They seem scared of me.”
“What about the man in black. Is he there?”
“No,” Brian said, his voice rising in a kind of shrill. “I don’t want to see him. Please don’t make me.”
“Brian it’s okay. He can’t hurt you. Remember? I want you to see him. Can you?”
Brian began to fidget, shaking his head back and forth, his face wincing as if in pain.
“Is he there, Brian?” Cromwell asked.
“The door, it’s…it’s opening! It’s him! He’s here! I don’t want to be here!” Tears began to stream through his tightly shut eyes and down his cheeks.
Darth Vader entered his master’s chambers. He’d felt a disturbance in the Force. His master was sitting in his throne and as Vader approached he heard the Emperor saying “He’s here! Please, I don’t want to be here. I want to leave!”
Vader stopped. Something was off. Not only was his master acting strangely but Vader could also feel the presence of another person, a stranger, emitting from his master through the Force. Never had he experienced the strange disturbance that he was experiencing now. Somehow someone else had taken over his master’s body.
“Who are you?” Vader asked cautiously. His lightsaber flew to his hand and ignited. He sensed the royal guards behind him raising their weapons in confusion. He turned to them and put a hand up. Their weapons flew out of their grips and into Vader’s hand.
“Leave!” he commanded them. Without hesitation they ran out of the room. He turned towards Palpatine’s personal aids but they were already in motion. Within seconds he was alone with his master.
“I asked you who you were!” Vader said, slowly approaching, his lightsaber in ready position.
“My…my name is Brian. Please don’t hurt me! I didn’t want to come here, my doctor made me!”
Vader wasn’t sure how to respond. A sniveling imposter named Brian had replaced his master.
“What have you done with my master? Where is Darth Sidious?”
The imposter began sobbing hysterically. “I…don’t…know! P…P…Please don’t hurt me!”
“You are under arrest. If you won’t tell me where he is voluntarily, then you force me to use more unpleasant methods of persuasion.”
“No! Please! I’ll do anything you want, just don’t hurt me!”
Cromwell had been trying to bring Brian back and so far nothing had worked. He watched helplessly as Brian worked himself into a fit. He no longer responded to the doctor's promptings but instead pleaded with someone who existed only in his mind. Cromwell was worried.
“Brian, can you hear me? When I snap my fingers you will wake up and will remember nothing that has happened. Do you understand?”
“No! Please! I’ll do anything you want, just don’t hurt me!”
Cromwell snapped his fingers but to no resolve. Brian was trapped in his own mind.
“Brian! Can you hear me? Respond!”
Brian’s eyes shot open. Cromwell could have sworn they glowed a yellowish hue for a split second.
“Brian?” He asked hesitantly.
Brian looked at Cromwell and smiled.
“How do you feel?”
“I feel,” he paused for a second, closing his eyes and inhaling deeply. “I feel younger.”
“Younger?” Cromwell had a puzzled look on his face. Brian’s voice seemed lower, raspier.
“Yes. Where am I?” He began sitting up. He looked around the room as if he’d never seen it before.
“You’re in my office. Don’t you remember anything?”
“Oh yes, I remember much. But you, I don’t remember you, or your,” his eyes scanned the room again, “office.”
“I’m afraid you’ve suffered a complete psychotic break. I’m going to have to commit you to a psychiatric hospital immediately.”
“Oh, but I’ve never felt better in my life!” Brian began getting up.
Cromwell got to his feet and blocked Brian, putting a firm hand on his shoulder. “I’m afraid I can’t let you leave. You’ll have to stay here with me.”
Brian looked at the hand on his shoulder and then into Cromwell’s eyes. A chill ran up his spine.
“You fool! Never touch me!” Cromwell flew across the room, crashing into a bookshelf before settling to the floor. The door to the office opened and Sarah stepped in. She looked at the doctor and then at Brian and began to scream. With a flick of his wrist she flew out of the room.
Sarah was laying on the reception area floor moaning. Brian stepped over her and opened the door that led out into the world.
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Count-Daedalus
Registered:
Nov '02
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Date Posted:
6/18/05 4:45am
Subject:
RE: Polar Beings - AU/Intertrilogy: Palpatine, Vader, Obi-Wan, Yoda
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Very fascinating story. It doesn't deserve being on the 6th page, so I thought I'd do something about that. Given that I am a Sidious-phile, I hope you give the revered emperor a god treatment. I look forwards to an update.
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”De omnibus dubitandum est.”
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MasterSareBabe
Registered:
Dec '04
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Date Posted:
6/18/05 9:08am
Subject:
RE: Polar Beings - AU/Intertrilogy: Palpatine, Vader, Obi-Wan, Yoda
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Wow, this is a unique one! That's freaky thinking of Palpatine in our world. 
Let me know when you update! 
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jpauln
Registered:
May '05
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Date Posted:
6/18/05 11:41am
Subject:
RE: Polar Beings - AU/Intertrilogy: Palpatine, Vader, Obi-Wan, Yoda
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Count-Daedalus - Thanks! I’ll try not to disappoint! Palps will definately get the chance to play 
MasterSareBabe - Thanks! I’ll have a new update soon!
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jpauln
Registered:
May '05
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Date Posted:
6/18/05 5:08pm
Subject:
Chapter 1 cont.
- Date Edited:
1/16/06 8:39pm (6 edits total)
Edited By:
jpauln
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Obi-Wan Kenobi sat in great concentration. His mind was clear of all thought and emotion. The Force flowed through him in gentle currents. His breath was shallow and his heart rate low. Time had slowed down and the universe opened before him. The heat in the windowless room did not disturb him. He could not hear the sounds of womp-rats fighting for food in the distance. For him there was no distraction. He was at peace.
Five years had passed since settling in the outskirts of the Dune Sea on Tatooine. In that time he had learned to view the Force as a companion in ways he’d never knew possible. Much of this was greatly due to the fact that he had very little human contact during his exile. Since leaving young Luke Skywalker in the ward of his step uncle Owen and aunt Beru, the only time he spoke with anyone in the farming community was when he needed to barter for food and supplies in exchange for what ever services he could provide. After revealing most of the truth about Anakin’s seduction to the darkside and his role in the fall of the Jedi (the fact that Anakin was still alive in the form of Darth Vader was left out), the Lars had banned him from their homestead. The rest of the farming community, skeptical of new comers to begin with, would only make exchanges if he promised to keep these deals a secret. Needless to say, his life was the very definition of exile.
The only friendly contact he ever had was with his former master, Qui-Gon Jinn. After falling in battle with the Zabrak Sith he had managed to overcome the limitations of death and return as a manifestation through the Force. They’d had many long conversations on the mysteries of the Force and on young Luke’s important future. Qui-Gon also gave instruction to becoming one with the Force. Obi-Wan learned to find meaning and purpose in every action. From this instruction he learned to have compassion for all walks of life, even those whom he had overlooked in the past. There were no pathetic life forms. All played an important roll in the Force.
Through his meditation, Obi-Wan could now see the whole universe. All forms of life, from the tiniest molecules to the greatest stars hum their own music, creating a great symphony that is the Force itself. Much of it, however, was shrouded in darkness. The Sith had managed to grow in power, engulfing all life with their hatred and greed. Corruption ran rapid in all systems, unwittingly fueling the Sith’s power and creating a dark cycle that grew stronger with every rotation. The Jedi had managed to keep that darkness at bay; but now, with only a handful of the Jedi alive, the darkness grew wild and untamed. That doesn’t go to say that Obi-Wan couldn‘t see light. There were bright spots to be found. Good and compassionate hearts beat their own unique rhythms, creating a melody as sweet as any fruit found on Naboo. One day that light would over power the darkness.
Obi-Wan’s eyes opened, a puzzled look upon his face. In an instant, much of the darkness he had seen vanished. Something had changed. He could still feel the darkside’s influence on the universe, but it had weakened. Something had happened, but what? Had Anakin somehow come back to the light? Had he renounced the ways of the Sith, realizing the horrible mistake he had made? But that’s impossible, isn’t it? Once the path of the darkside you take, no going back there is. Yoda had lectured that point over the hundreds of years he instructed Jedi. Master Yoda was seldom wrong. But hadn’t he been wrong about overcoming the limitations of death? Hadn’t he admitted that he still had much to learn? If he was right, and Vader was still a Sith, then had the Emperor died?
Reaching out with the Force it was impossible to tell. The taint of Sidious and Vader still resonated in many parts of the Galaxy. It would take years, possibly centuries after their deaths, for their taint to disappear. There was only one way to know; he would have to investigate. If one of the Sith had died then Obi-Wan and Yoda had a chance of killing the other before they found a new apprentice. If they acted quickly then they could reverse the damage the Sith had caused.
Obi-Wan began to pack for his journey. He would first head to Mos Eisely and see if he could find out anything from the space travelers in port. If need be, he would find transport off world where he would investigate further. He would need a disguise. He was a wanted man and it wouldn’t be wise to wear his Jedi robes in a spaceport filled with pirates and bounty hunters. He would also need money. Finding a transport, if necessary, would not be cheap. He had some money for emergencies but wasn’t sure if Republic credits had been replaced by an Imperial currency. He hoped that it would take longer then five years to get a new currency in place. There were hundreds of thousands of systems after all. Any such process would be slow, requiring a gradual integration.
“I suppose I’ll find out soon enough,” he said as he headed out the door.
Sarah’s head was killing her. She had no idea how long it had been since Brian had somehow thrown her across the reception area. How did he do that? The half-hour radio program she had been listening too was still on; no more the ten or fifteen minutes could have passed. Sitting up she felt a wave of dizziness pass over her. Feeling her head she found a large knot on the back of her skull. I probably have a concussion. She reached up and grabbed her desk for support. After taking in a deep breath she began to stand. Another dizzy spell came on and she nearly fell down. After a moment she began to walk towards Cromwell’s office. Inside she could see him lying in the same place she’d last seen him. Rushing to him she bent down slowly. She could see his chest rising and he had a strong pulse.
“Thank God,” she said.
“Dr. Cromwell, can you hear me?” She gently patted his face. He moaned but remained unconscious. “Dr. Cromwell, please wake up.” Nothing.
She stood back up and made her way to his desk. Reaching for the phone she dialed 911.
Primitive. That word played over and over as Sidious explored his new world in his new body. He could see hundreds of large and bulky vehicles that road on air-inflated wheels and used combustible fuels that polluted the air in nauseating carbon gasses. Nearby buildings stretched only a few hundred feet above the surface and yet seemed to be unstable. They would never last more than a few centuries. Once he thought he could see a flying machine that relied on wings and engines that pulled the aircraft off the ground. Surly they had the resources to build better technology? To make matters worse, this planet seemed to be solely populated by humans! Some other, more primitive species he could understand; but to see humans living with such limited knowledge of the workings of mechanics and physics was baffling.
Rude. That was another word that came to his mind. Walking on the paved walking area near the buildings he encountered many people who would push him rudely out of their way. If he weren’t severely outnumbered and so unfamiliar with the types of weapons these primitive people possessed he would have made an example of them. He noticed that they were constantly rude to each other as well. The primitive vehicles constantly cut in front of each other, causing the drivers to shout what he could only assume to be profanities at each other.
Another thought crossed his mind that made him laugh in delight. If ever there were a people that needed a strong ruler, these insects would be it.
He reached out and grabbed the arm of a man rushing past him.
“Hey, watch it buddy! What’s your problem?” the man huffed.
“Who is your leader? Where can I find him?” Sidious asked sternly.
“What the hell are you talking about? I don‘t have time to talk to crazies.” The man attempted to pull away but Brian’s grip was amazingly strong.
Sidious’ face contorted in to a vicious scowl. The man keeled over grabbing his stomach and began coughing harshly, spitting blood onto the sidewalk. People gave them a wide berth as they walked by, trying to ignore them. Sidious was amazed at how these people didn’t seem to care at all that this man was dying.
He bent over and whispered into the man’s ear. “Do you want the pain to stop? I think you do. I can feel the fear in you. Tell me what I want to know and you’ll not feel pain anymore.”
“I’ll tell you anything, please just stop whatever it is you’re doing!” The man begged.
“I’m waiting.”
“Our leader is the President of the United States! In Washington D.C.! Please make this stop!” He begged.
“Very well,” he said. He stood up and reached out his hand, making a fist. The man let out a shriek and collapsed. He continued down the sidewalk.
“Hey! I think this guys dead over here! Someone call 911!” Someone shouted behind him.
Sidious ignored them all. He had a President to find in a place called Washington D.C.
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jpauln
Registered:
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Date Posted:
6/19/05 10:55am
Subject:
Chapter 2 - Lost
- Date Edited:
6/29/05 9:26pm (4 edits total)
Edited By:
jpauln
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Chapter 2 - Lost
The detention cell was worse than any nightmare Brian could recall. Waiting for the man in black was even worst. His new surroundings consisted of a 6’x8’room that was cold and gray. A little metal bench, if you call it that, protruded from the wall. The light overhead was harsh making it impossible for him to sleep, but Brian considered that, at least, to be a good thing. The very thought of sleeping scared him worse of all. If he slept who knows where he’d wake up? He supposed anywhere would be better than here, but than again, where was here?
The most disturbing aspect of this whole nightmare was the fact that he was in a different body. He couldn’t understand how anyone with this body could still live! The skin was gray and wrinkled and his face felt disfigured. His forehead seemed to protrude unnaturally with a dent that ran vertically up the center. The eyes were sunken and teeth were gnarly; the skin on his cheek hung loose. He shuddered at the thought of looking in the mirror; if the man in black really wanted to torture him, that’s all he would have to do.
The strangest part of this whole journey was the way he felt. He couldn’t quite explain it but he seemed to be aware of everything. He could feel the room around him and could sense the people outside it. When he concentrated he could almost feel their feelings, which was confusion. They seemed to wonder why the man in black had locked him up. He could also feel when the man in black was near. He had a cold, dark presence that felt conflicted. On one hand he seemed almost excited in the sudden ’disappearance’ of his master, on the other he seemed scared to death. Brian wasn’t sure if he wanted to find his master or kill him. Either way the only reason Brian could see that he was still alive was because he now inhabited this ‘master’s’ body.
This had to be a dream. Of course it was. Cromwell had screwed up somehow and now he was stuck in his own head. There was going to be one hell of a lawsuit when he woke up, that is unless Cromwell makes him forget the whole thing.
But was this a dream? It felt so real. Or did it? These new psychic feelings weren’t real. People didn’t have these feelings. This ‘Aunt Cleo moment’ was just an interesting side effect of this whole ordeal.
Real or not real, Brian didn’t care. What he did care about was the fact that the man in black was getting close.
Vader wasn’t sure how to proceed. How could he torture the man he called master? Even if someone else was running the show the stage still belonged to Sidious. Conflict ran deep in the former Jedi. This could be his chance to eliminate Sidious and take control of the Galaxy, running it as he saw fit. On the other hand this could be a test. Deceit was part of a Sith’s nature. He wasn’t sure that he could take Sidious in combat. The injuries he had sustained at the hand of Kenobi had left him nearly half as powerful as he should have been. There was also a problem of a different sort he had to contend with. He could sense that regardless of who was occupying Sidious, they were still strong in the Force. The only advantage that Vader could see was that this ‘Brian’ seemed to have no idea that the Force even existed.
He walked down the cold hallway of the detention area. Two clones walked behind him escorting a special medical droid that had been modified to inject truth serum. As he approached the cell he stopped. ‘Brian’ had suddenly become very frightened. He could feel the fear rising with every step he took. But how? How did he know that Vader was coming unless... He senses me through the Force. I must get the information out of him before he grows too powerful.
He continued to the cell and opened the door. ‘Brian’ was sitting on the bench frozen in place, his eyes darting from Vader to the droid behind him.
“Wait out here,” he said to the clone escorts.
“Yes sir,” one of them said as they took position outside the cell.
Vader walked in and the door closed behind him.
The paramedics took Dr. Cromwell out of the office on a stretcher. They had managed to revive him but he was delirious.
“He never touched me! He just looked at me!” He kept saying it over and over.
Sarah had been checked out and then released to the police for questioning. She told them what little she knew. A patient, Brian Hughes, had an appointment with Dr. Cromwell at 8:30. About fifteen minutes into the session she heard what sounded like a loud scuffle. She opened the door and found the doctor lying unconscious with Mr. Hughes standing on the opposite side of the room. The next thing she knew she was waking up in the reception area with a knot on her head.
An A.P.B had been sent out for an escaped mental patient, possibly suffering from multiple personality disorder, who was violent and considered extremely dangerous. Ten minutes later the police received a report that a man fitting Brian Hughes description had been seen talking to a Donald Archer who had been found dead about six blocks from Cromwell’s office; the cause of death unknown. If seen all police are to use extreme caution.
Obi-Wan rolled his eyes. “How could things be any worse?”
The transport he had hired to take him from Anchorhead to Mos Eisely had broken down.
“I don’t suppose you offer refunds?” He asked Jerne Warjac, with a little touch of sarcasm.
“Look Ben, I can’t tell you how sorry I am. If there is anything I can do to make this up to you just let me know,” he replied.
“Well, for starters, you could get me out of here.”
“That’s the problem, I don’t know exactly where here is,” Jerne said with a sheepish grin.
“Ah. So that’s how it could get worse,” Obi-Wan nodded with an ‘I knew it’ smile.
“No, that’s how it could get worse,” Jerne said, pointing to the distant cliffs.
As Obi-Wan turned his head to see where he was pointing a shot rang out that ricocheted off the speeder.
“Stay down!” He said, pushing Jerne down into the seat. Using the Force he jumped towards the source of the shooting, landing about fifteen meters away from the speeder. Another shot rang out that he easily deflected with his lightsaber.
“Blast! I hate sandpeople,” he muttered. He heard the distinct war cry of a Tusken warrior. In the distance he saw several banthas charging towards him in a single file. “I can see you! What’s the point of hiding your numbers?”
“They’re not hiding from us. They’re hiding from the people who will eventually find us.”
Obi-Wan turned to see Jerne standing next to him with a blaster in each hand.
“I thought you could use some help,” he said with a grin. “After all, it’s my fault you’re in this situation.”
“Don’t be too hard on yourself. It could happen to anyone. After five years I still barely know the desert in my own backyard.”
“Yeah, but I was born here!” he said.
“Yes well, I don’t mean to be rude but we really need to postpone this conversation. They’re here,” he said, giving Jerne a weary smile.
The lead bantha ran past him as a Tusken jumped down for the attack. Obi-Wan stepped aside and slashed at the falling raider. It landed in two pieces, its top severed from the bottom. He barely had time too look up when a second Raider landed beside him, its gaffi stick in motion. As he turned to defend himself the Tusken’s chest burst into flames and it fell dead.
“Thanks!” He said to Jerne who was busy picking another Raider off its Bantha.
“It’s the least I could do!” he said with a smile.
As the Bantha of the fallen Raider ran by, Obi-Wan jumped up and landed on its saddle. Unexpectedly it bucked and kicked with surprising force, throwing him to the ground. He had to roll out of its way to prevent it from trampling him.
“Big mistake!” He said as he got up.
“Banthas have a special connection with their Tusken riders. They don’t like others riding them,” Jerne said.
“Now you tell me.”
Jerne just shrugged.
Kenobi ran towards a fourth Bantha and Force Pushed the Rider as it took aim at Jerne with its rifle. It landed on the ground hard, firing its rifle prematurely. The projectile hit the Tusken on the cliff, causing it to fall over the edge.
“Well if I hadn’t seen it, I don’t know that I’d have believed it!” Obi-Wan said to himself as he ran to the fallen Tusken. It jumped to its feet and swung at his head. His lightsaber met it halfway, cutting the rifle in half and igniting the gunpowder incased cartridges inside. The gun exploded in the Tusken’s face catching it on fire. It ran in a circle beating at its burning head. A nauseating smell began to fill the air. Unsure of whether to help him or kill him Obi-Wan watched with mild horror. Jerne made the decision for him. A blaster to the chest sent it flying into the sand where its face continued to burn.
“We better get going. There will be more of them soon,” Jerne said.
“Well how do you propose we do that?” Obi-Wan asked with a quizzical look.
“Oh, yeah. I have a surprise for you,” Jerne said with a sly smile.
“A surprise for me? You shouldn’t have,” Kenobi said sarcastically. “Well let’s see it.”
Jerne jumped into the speeder and started it with his first attempt.
“Or maybe you should have! How did you do that?” he asked with amused wonderment.
“It must have been the bullet from the Tusken’s rifle. While you went off to defend the fort I tried starting it out of desperation and it worked. If I wasn’t so honest I might have left you here.”
“Did I ask for a refund? I think I should give you a tip!” Obi-Wan said as he jumped into the speeder.
“Well don’t go tipping me yet. We’re still lost,” Warjac said.
Obi-Wan closed his eyes and let the Force be his guide. After a moment he opened his eyes and pointed to the south.
“Go that way.”
“Are you sure?”
Kenobi nodded. “Yes, that is the way, I’m sure of it.”
“I thought you Jedi were extinct,” Jerne said.
“We are as far as anyone else is concerned. My name isn’t Ben, it’s Obi-Wan.” He offered Jerne his hand.
“It’s an honor,” he said, shaking Kenobi’s hand. “I never thought I’d fight side by side with a Jedi. Don’t worry, your secret’s safe with me.”
“I need to see your President. You will take me to Washington D.C.”
The man in the taxi looked at Sidious with mild amusement.
“You’re not from around here are you?” The driver asked.
“No questions,” Sidious barked.
“Okay, but I just thought I’d tell you that in America passengers usually sit in the back of taxicabs.”
Sidious glared at him and he shrugged.
“But it’s your dollar so you can sit anywhere you wish. I can’t drive you to D.C. but you’d be better off flying there anyways. D.C.’s a good ten-hour drive from here.”
“Where can I find a flying transport?” he asked.
“That would be JFK. We’re in the thick of morning traffic so it could take a while,” he said.
“Then I suggest you get going,” Sidious said annoyed. If he didn’t need this man he might have killed him then and there.
“Yes sir. Buckle up, it’s the law.” He gave Sidious a smile that was not returned and shrugged. He was used to driving pissed off people. That was his job.
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LLL
Title: TFN Fan Fiction Archive Editor
Registered:
Jul '00
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Date Posted:
6/19/05 12:21pm
Subject:
RE: Polar Beings - AU/Intertrilogy: Palpatine, Vader, Obi-Wan, Yoda (UPDATED 6/19)
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jpauln posted:
Sidious ignored them all. He had a President to find in a place called Washington D. C.
Are you kidding?
Actually, Sidious woke up in a being by the name of George, and he entered politics, and took over the White House, and solidified his power by starting a war ...
OK, just joking.
It's interesting ... you should keep writing!
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''Overall, to get a real deep, nuanced understanding of human behaviour, art is the best way.'' --Natalie Portman. Have a question or suggestion for the Archive? PM me anytime.
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jpauln
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Date Posted:
6/19/05 10:30pm
Subject:
RE: Polar Beings - AU/Intertrilogy: Palpatine's visit to Earth (UPDATED 6/19)
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LLL- Thanks! I know it sounds kind of funny, but I can assure you that Sidious has much bigger plans than just the White House. He's just kind of getting a feel for his new surroundings.
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MasterSareBabe
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Date Posted:
6/20/05 5:22am
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RE: Polar Beings - AU/Intertrilogy: Palpatine's visit to Earth (UPDATED 6/19)
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This is hilarious! I can just see Sidious' mind in someone else's body. Hah! 
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jpauln
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Date Posted:
6/20/05 3:34pm
Subject:
Chapter 2 cont.
- Date Edited:
6/29/05 9:18pm (4 edits total)
Edited By:
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Mos Eisely was bustling with life. The speeder had to swerve as it narrowly missed a gang of swoops speeding in the opposite direction. Merchants and businesses of every kind littered the streets. The closer they got to the spaceport, the more wretched things began to appear.
“I know that you’re a Jedi but you should still be careful,” Jerne warned as he pulled over.
“Don’t worry. I’m quite aware of the scum and villainy that can be found here,” Obi-Wan said, shaking Jerne’s hand before getting out. During the first few months of his exile Obi-Wan had visited the spaceport's local cantina in search for information on the Empire’s activities. It was there that he ran in to Rick Olié, Padmé Amidala’s pilot during the Trade Federation’s invasion of Naboo. He’d informed Kenobi of a new enforcer the Emperor had recruited to keep rebelling systems in order, an enforcer named Darth Vader. More machine than man he was the face of fear in the Empire. The truth about Anakin’s fate sent shivers through his spine.
“You’re sure you can find your way home?” Obi-Wan asked with a smile.
“Yeah, yeah, rub it in. But seriously Ben, may the Force be with you,” he said with sincerity.
“Thank you, and may the Force be with you my friend,” he replied with a slight bow.
He watched Jerne drive off into the distance before going about his business. The first thing that needed to be done was to upgrade his wardrobe. The old farming clothes he was wearing weren't quite suitable for space travel, should it come to that. He found a clothing shop and stepped inside. Upon entry a Twi’lek female approached him.
“If you’re lost farmer then you’ve come into the wrong shop. I don’t give out directions. If you’ve come here to purchase clothes you’re wasting your time. My items are extremely expensive.”
Obi-Wan pulled out his purse and began counting his credits. “Well then, I’m sorry I’ve wasted your time.”
Her eyes lit up and her posture changed. “Republic credits? Where did a farmer get those?” She asked curiously.
“Oh I’ve been around. But as you said, my money isn’t good enough for you so I’ll be going.” He turned to leave.
“I’m sure something can be worked out. You seem like a decent enough man, too decent for Mos Eisely. I’ve decided too cut you a deal,” she said in her best salesmen tone.
“A deal?” He turned around and flashed her his best smile. “Let’s see what you have my dear.”
Ten minutes later he emerged from the shop wearing slacks and a dark shirt with a vest. Three more pairs of slacks and shirts, similar in style, were in his bag.
“I look like a pirate,” he muttered under his breath. He hoped he didn’t look as uncomfortable as he felt. The vest was made for concealing weapons. It had a pouch that his lightsaber fit in nicely. It would be a little harder to get at than normal but he was quite confident that if an emergency rose he’d have no problems. Just to be sure he practiced withdrawing it in the dressing room.
It had been nearly five years since he'd last stepped through its doors but the Mos Eisley Cantina hadn’t changed a bit. The same bartender was serving drinks and even the same band was playing in the corner. He scanned the patrons for someone that he felt he could trust. In the corner he spotted a man in an Imperial officer’s uniform sitting alone. Most of the patrons, understandably, seemed to be keeping their distance from him. Obi-Wan decided he’d take a chance. Hopefully he wouldn’t be recognized as a wanted Jedi. After buying two of ‘whatever the officer was drinking’ from the bar, he approached the table and made a gesture at the seat across from the officer.
“Is this seat taken Lieutenant?” He asked, sliding the extra drink to the officer.
With a look of surprise the officer said, “No, the seat’s yours. I must say that I’m surprised that someone wants to join me. Most of the people in here treat me like I have the plague.”
“Well most of the patrons here are a little less civilized that present company,” he said, offering a toast. He could see that the man was well on his way to being intoxicated. This could work out to my advantage, he thought with a smile.
“Say, I’ll drink to that!” The officer enthusiastically clinked his glass on Obi-Wan’s. “What’s your name friend?”
“My name is Bentoni. Only my friends call me Ben. I assume you’re my friend,” he said with a smile.
“That you are Ben! My name is Kan Tamer. So what brings a guy like you into a dive like this?” Kan asked.
Obi-Wan could feel the tension growing in the other patrons as they watched this little friendship bloom. I better make this quick. I can’t afford to attract too much attention.
“Well Kan, like most of the inhabitants on this planet, I too have something in my past from which I am hiding.”
“Troubles with the law eh?” Kan winked.
“Actually it’s more of a case where the law has trouble with me,” he said with a grin. “What about you? What brings and Imperial officer here?”
“Oh, I’m here on leave. I‘ve been sent here on behalf of the Empire to meet with the Hutts in an effort to draft Tatooine into the Empire. The Hutts are pretty stubborn about the whole thing. It’s no secret the types of businesses they run. They know they’ll lose a lot of money if they join.”
“Well it certainly wouldn’t hurt this planet if they did,” Obi-Wan said.
“That’s what we’ve been trying to tell them! The Empire wants to help, not hurt them. This place isn’t worth all the trouble of an invasion though. More than likely the Empire will just move on, forgetting about this dust bowl.”
“Alas, it’s probably all for the best,” Obi-Wan said, stirring his drink. “Not to change the subject Kan, but I’ve heard the strangest rumors in the past few days.”
“What kinds of rumors?” Kan asked.
“Well, I’m sure it’s probably nothing but I’ve heard that something’s happened with the Emperor and Vader.” He watched Kan’s reactions carefully. He immediately saw his eyes dilate.
“We’re not supposed to talk about that. Who told you that?” Kan asked in a hushed voice, leaning forward.
“Oh everyone has been talking about it, but no one seems sure of what exactly happened,” he probed. “You can trust me.” He subtly waved his hand as he spoke.
“Well, I guess I can trust you. You see, we’re not really sure ourselves. It seems that the Emperor has had some kind of break down.”
“Breakdown? That’s terrible!” He hoped he wasn’t over doing it with his acting. “I can see why you’re trying to keep this a secret.”
“Oh, no doubt. If he has cracked, well, it’s probably better that the Senate doesn’t find out. They gave him power for life but if they should feel that he’s unfit to run things they might make a move to take control again.”
“What is the nature of this breakdown?” He asked calmly.
“Oh, that we don’t know. Vader’s got him locked up on that Star Destroyer of his. No one knows what’s going on beyond that.”
Kenobi nodded thoughtfully.
“Where is this Star Destroyer of Vader’s?” He asked casually.
“Oh, that’s classified my friend,” Kan said matter-of-factly.
“You can trust me. No one will know that you told me,” Obi-Wan said with another wave of his hand.
“You know? You’re right. I can trust you! They’re at Mon Calamari.” Kan seemed most pleased with himself.
Smiling Obi-Wan waved his hand again. “Well Kan it’s been a pleasure but you’re running late for an appointment.”
“Sure. I’ll see you around buddy!” Kan said enthusiastically as he got up.
He nodded and shook Kan‘s hand but in his mind he thought, Not if I can help it.
JFK was bustling with traffic as taxis and shuttle busses fought for space. As Sidious’ taxi pulled over he began to get out. The driver grabbed him by the arm, keeping him in the cap.
“Hey? Aren’t you forgetting something?” He asked.
“You do not need monetary compensation,” he said with a wave of his hand.
“Look man, if you’re trying to get out of paying me I’m going to have to call the cops. I can’t afford to give free rides.”
Sidious smiled and the taxi lurched forward, slamming into the back of another car. “What the hell?” The driver asked in surprise.
In the commotion Sidious slipped into the airport unnoticed. The driver never reported his passenger's failure to pay to the authorities; he had bigger problems to worry about.
Vader was growing frustrated. None of the truth serums seemed to work and his attempts at mind probing had failed. The truth of the matter was that this 'Brian' had no more idea of what was going on than he did. In fact, 'Brian' seemed convinced that everything he was experiencing was some kind of dream. Vader was running out of time. 'Brian' was growing stronger in the Force. If he didn’t make progress soon he would have no other choice but to kill his Master.
Sidious paced the busy ticket counters. With his keen observation skills he began reading the sales people behind the counters. After a few minutes he found what he was looking for. He got in line and patiently waited.
“Hello sir, how may I help you?” The salesman asked with a smile.
“I need to go to Washington D.C. as soon as possible,” Sidious replied.
“Well let’s see. I’m afraid all of our flights today are booked. I can get you onto a flight tomorrow if you like?” He asked.
“You’ll get me onto the next flight. You will put me in the nicest accommodations possible,” Sidious commanded.
“I’ll just bump somebody for you. Let’s see, here’s someone that can wait until tomorrow. You can have their seat! It will be in first class. How will you be paying for that?” His smile growing wider.
“I’m not. You are,” Sidious said.
“Well it looks like I’ll be paying for your ticket. I just need your name and to see your I.D.” he said.
“No you don’t.” Sidious replied.
“Okay, here’s your ticket and have a nice flight!” He beamed.
Sidious took his ticket and headed for the terminal.
An hour later he was sitting on board the 767 watching the world grow smaller.
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Obi-Wan_Ken-Obi
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Jan '05
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Date Posted:
6/21/05 3:13am
Subject:
RE: Polar Beings - AU/Intertrilogy: Palpatine's visit to Earth (UPDATED 6/20)
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jpauln posted:
“You’ll get me onto the next flight. You will put me in the nicest accommodations possible,” Sidious commanded.
“I’ll just bump somebody for you. Let’s see, here’s someone that can wait until tomorrow. You can have their seat. It will be in first class. How will you be paying for that?” He asked with a smile.
“I’m not. You are,” Sidious said.
“Well it looks like I’ll be paying for your ticket. I just need your name and to see your I.D.” he said.
“No you don’t.” Sidious replied.
“Okay, here’s your ticket and have a nice flight!” He said with a smile.
That was hilarious
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"Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end; but it is perhaps the end of the beginning. (Episode III)"
WC, PM of Britain, after the Battle of El Alamein
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jpauln
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May '05
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Date Posted:
6/21/05 3:45am
Subject:
RE: Polar Beings - AU/Intertrilogy: Palpatine's visit to Earth (UPDATED 6/20)
- Date Edited:
6/21/05 3:47am (1 edits total)
Edited By:
jpauln
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Thanks Obi-Wan! I'd hoped it would be 
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jpauln
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Date Posted:
6/22/05 12:13am
Subject:
Chapter 2 conclusion
- Date Edited:
12/13/05 12:36am (4 edits total)
Edited By:
jpauln
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Brian was tired. His mind had been probed and his body drugged. The man in black, who he now knew as Darth Vader, had exhausted every effort at his disposal to retrieve the information that Brian couldn’t provide. The frail body he now possessed needed sleep and he fought it with every ounce of strength he had. This was a fight that he could feel himself losing. Even with the new power that flowed through his being he was unable to prompt his body into alertness. His mind began to dim and soon he slumped onto the bench. His eyes grew heavy and the cell in which he was imprisoned faded from existence.
“Hello Brian,” a voice in the dark recess of his mind said.
“Who are you?” He asked.
“Are you having as much fun in my body as I am in yours?” The voice asked in a mocking tone.
“What did you do to me?” Brian demanded.
The voice cackled an evil laugh that sent chills through his body even as he slept. “What did I do? I’m afraid that you have done this yourself. I have to admit that I am enjoying this world from which you came.”
“I didn’t do this! That’s impossible! You can have this body back!”
“All in due time my boy. I am not one to let opportunity pass me by. This world could be a worthy addition to my Empire. I am now on the way to see your leader, the President of the United States I believe he is called.”
“The President? She doesn’t rule the Earth. There are some who would argue differently but in truth many nations rule our world.”
“I see. That changes things but is of little consequence. Soon this ‘Earth’ will be on its knees as with every system in its galaxy.”
“Not if I have anything to say about it! If you say that I am responsible for this than I will be the one to fix it!”
The voice once again broke into a fit of laughter. “I can sense the fear in you, it fuels your rage. You will be a worthy ally. You and I are linked through the Force. As you grow in strength, so do I.”
“Leave me alone!” Brian shouted. He could feel the power he possessed indeed growing stronger. It weighed him down like an invisible weight and gnawed at his gut. He forced himself to calm down and slowly the weight lifted.
“Fight it all you want, soon you will be my apprentice,” the voice said with a calm that Brian found unnerving.
With an effort he struggled to wake himself. As he opened his eyes he could hear that voice laughing. Soon, it said.
Sidious opened his eyes. He glanced out the window of the 767 and smiled. “Soon.”
“I beg your pardon?” The portly man in the seat next to his asked.
He turned towards the man, his face still in a smile. The man smiled back.
“I said soon."
“Oh,” the man said with a look of confusion. “Soon what?”
“Soon your pathetic Earth will bow down to me,” he replied before cackling.
The man began to laugh along with him. “That’s pretty good! Is that from a movie? Let me guess, Superman II. General Zod, right?”
Sidious stopped laughing, his gaze growing cold. The man’s smile faded. After a moment the man turned away, adjusting in his seat in an effort to put some distance between them. Sidious found the large mans attempt amusing and began laughing again. The man ignored him the remainder of the flight.
Vader felt his Master’s presence through the Force. He could sense the fear ‘Brian’ felt as his aura touched the aura of Sidious. The fear grew into anger as the conflict of spirits continued. An instant later his Master was gone. His instincts told him to be patient. Soon everything would be clear.
As Obi-Wan watched the Imperial Officer leave the Cantina he began scanning the room. He needed to find a pilot that could take him to Mon Calamari. He reached out with the Force and let his instinct be his guide. In a corner booth he spotted a woman. She was younger than she appeared. Her rough appearance gave a clue to the hard life she’d lived. Her hair was short, the color of flames. Her eyes were a cool blue. She wore a jumpsuit common for smugglers. A large blaster was strapped on her hip. Obi-Wan sensed that it was probably as much for show as it was for defense. She wanted to let others know that she could take care of herself. A moment later her eyes shifted towards him. She made an expression that was unmistakable. What the hell are you looking at?
Obi-Wan smiled but only received a cold stare in return. “She’ll do,” he said to himself as he sipped his drink.
Getting up he approached her booth. She eyeballed him with the weary expression of one who did not want to be bothered. He gestured to the seat across from her. She shrugged with an I don’t care what you do look. He sat down and began stirring his drink.
“Well?” she asked after a moment.
“I know you don’t want to be bothered,” he began.
“Oh you think?” She interrupted.
“So I thought I’d make this simple,” he continued. “I need a ride to Mon Calamari. I’ll make it worth your wild.”
“Oh, it will cost you alright. The Empire just pulverized three of its major cities. The Mon Calamari and Quarren have been putting up one hell of a fight. It seems they have a problem with the Empire’s attempt to take their ship building facilities.”
“Really? That is a problem,” he said, stroking his beard.
“Anyone going near there will find themselves caught in the middle of one vicious battle.”
“And you’d still be willing to take me there?” He asked.
“If you pay me enough I’ll take you anywhere you want,” she said.
“Aren’t you going to ask me why I need to go there?”
“Hey, if you have a death wish that’s your business. I’m just in it for the money. The less I know the better,” she replied.
“Fare enough. How much?” He readied himself for the high price she no doubt would ask. It had been some time since he'd needed his negotiation skills.
“Normally I’d insist on 10,000, but this is a special case. 20,000,” she said coldly.
“I see. What if I agreed to pay you 15,000?”
“No way. There’s no negotiating this price. If you don’t want to pay 20,000 then I suggest you find yourself another ship; but I can almost guarantee you that you’ll get the same reply from anyone here. The only difference between them and me is that I can fly circles around any one of these clowns.”
“If you’d be willing to be flexible with your price I’d be willing to give you something else of greater value in return.”
“What‘s that?” she asked.
“Me,” he said with a smile.
“You?” She scoffed. “What do you mean you?”
“Well, the Empire offers rewards for certain fugitives. I’m a wanted man. If you turn me in than I can assure you they’ll reward you handsomely.”
“You want me to turn you over to the Empire?” She asked.
Obi-Wan nodded.
“Just who are you anyways?”
“I am Obi-Wan Kenobi, General of the Clone Wars and Jedi Knight. You can call me Ben.”
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jpauln
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Date Posted:
6/22/05 9:50pm
Subject:
Chapter 3 - Revelations
- Date Edited:
6/25/05 11:36am (4 edits total)
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Chapter 3 - Revelations
Brian Hughes had always been a coward by nature. Though he had big dreams and was smart enough to know the paths that led to success, he had been too afraid to follow them through. He would rather be comfortable than ambitious. Looking back at his life, at his failed attempts at college, the promising commitments that he missed, his fear of rejection from Sarah, he realized that he was in exactly the same place he had been when he graduated high school. Where as all his friends had long since finished college and were well into their careers with spouses and children to drive around in min-vans, he was still working at a dead in job, living in a one-bedroom apartment with no hope of change in the foreseeable future.
Now, for the first time in his twenty-eight year existence he had the chance to take control of his life, in both the literal and the figurative sense. If he ever regained control of his body from this psychotic galactic dictator, he promised himself that he would let his life be controlled by his fears no longer. It was time to finally grow up.
For the past few hours he had been meditating. It was a strange sensation. Never in his life had he meditated. He couldn’t explain why he was doing it, it just felt right. Through its calming effects he found that his mind was surprisingly clear. What was even more surprising was the he was no longer afraid. This strange power that had engulfed him, the power that the voice had referred to as the Force, flowed through his body in gentle currents. It tugged and pulled at his consciousness, clearing his thoughts and removing his emotions. It assured him that it would be his guide if he were willing to listen to its promptings. It would in return, listen to him. With this Force he had a special bond that was the very essence of who he was. It also was the very essence of everyone he encountered. It was in the walls, in the air. It was in everything he touched, smelled and tasted. It was in everything he saw. This Force stretched out, bridging the gaps between this world and his own. As he meditated he knew that it was the will of the Force that he was here.
Brian no longer questioned his sanity. He could see that the purpose for this journey was manifesting itself little by little. He felt something else too; a presence in the Force that stretched out across the galaxy. Someone that, like Vader, knew the intimacies of the Force, and yet this person was different. Darkness was not this person’s companion but light, soft and reassuring. This person was strong in the Force and they would soon be here.
A disturbance in the Force sent a warning through Vader’s mind. He’s coming, it warned. Who? That he couldn’t answer. Stretching out with the Force he searched for the approaching stranger. Nothing. He knew that now was not the time, but soon all would be revealed.
Vader strolled into the Star Destroyer’s command center. Admiral Saxton was monitoring the planet below. At the sight of Vader he turned around and gave a salute.
“Lord Vader, the rebellion on the planet’s surface has intensified. The Constellation has sent a request for more troops. I was about to send three squadrons.”
“This rebellion has become a thorn in our side. If we continue to lose men we will be forced to retreat.”
“Retreat my Lord? Surly the Empire is strong enough to squelch the rebellion of one world,” Saxton said unbelieving.
“The Empire will not waist anymore resources. There are other systems with similar ship manufacturing facilities in which the locals can be more easily swayed.”
“Yes my Lord. I’ll inform the Constellation that if these squadrons should fail than we are to retreat,” Saxton said.
“I also want you to put the ship on emergency status. All guards are to be at their posts,” Vader commanded. “I sense a disturbance in the Force and feel that the Emperor may be in danger.”
“Yes my Lord, it will be done,” Saxton said.
Obi-Wan sat in the co-pilot’s chair on board the Star Tamer. The Corellian S3X was a small, mat gray cargo ship. The cockpit protruded from the right side of the disk shaped fuselage and three small but powerful engines protruded from the rear. He sat patiently as his pilot, Sonia Dai’lyn, performed the pre-flight procedures.
Conflicted thoughts passed through his mind as he waited for the journey that would take him off Tatooine for the first time in five years. On one hand he was excited to see a place that wasn’t covered with sand; on the other he wondered if this was a good idea. His instincts told him that this was the time to strike; with the Emperor no longer in control Vader had to be dealt with before he could assume power. This was the chance to end the Empire’s short reign of terror, and yet he felt that there was something else he should be seeing. He didn’t know what, exactly, but felt that the Force was trying to tell him something.
Sonia entered the cockpit, resting in her chair beside Obi-Wan. She quickly gave all the readout screens a once over and began starting the ship.
“Buckle up Jedi, you’re about to see some real flying,” she said as the corner of her mouth hinted a smile.
Obi-Wan felt a mixture of conflicting emotions as her comment brought up memories of Anakin. Without a word he began strapping on the safety harness and braced himself for the flight. The ship gently lifted off the ground and began to swiftly ascend into the atmosphere. In a matter of seconds the blue sky faded into a dark purple before revealing a blanket of stars against a dark backdrop. He immediately began to feel a drop in temperature as they left the hot atmosphere of Tatooine for the cold vacuum of space. Sonia began making hyperspace calculations.
“Here we go,” she said as the ship lurched forward and the stars blurred into a dancing pattern of light. “There’s no turning back now.”
Sidious exited the crowded terminal and looked around. A bustle of cars, taxis and busses were fighting for space in an effort to pick up passengers. As he made his way to a taxi parked by the curb he was violently shoved from behind, tumbling him to the ground. He glared at the person who had made the fatal mistake. A young boy, no older than thirteen standard years, was getting into the taxi. He was about to strike when he felt a firm grip on his arm. A tall man helped him onto his feet. The boy was momentarily forgotten as he stared at the man who stood before him. Could it be?
“I’m so sorry for that sir. Kids can be a little hard to handle at times but I can assure you that he didn’t mean to shove you like that. Please forgive him of his rudeness,” the man apologized. “Mark! Get out of that taxi and come here right now!”
Sidious didn’t speak, just stared. He barely heard a word the man spoke. He didn’t care. This man was the key that he needed. Through the Force he could feel the connection that existed between this man and another.
“I’m sorry sir. I didn’t mean to shove you. You can have the taxi,” the boy named Mark was saying.
Sidious didn’t look at Mark, didn’t acknowledge the apology he spoke. He remained focused on the man who vibrated within the Force.
“Are you okay?” The man was asking.
“Yes,” he finally replied. “Your apologies have been accepted.”
“Good,” the man sighed with a smile. “I was afraid you’d hit your head or something. No hard feelings then?” The man asked, offering his hand.
“No hard feelings,” he answered as he shook the man’s hand. “My name is Brian.”
“Brian, it’s good to meet you. I’m Andy.”
Sidious smiled at the man named Andy. He no longer cared about the taxi. He no longer cared about the President. All his focus was on the man before him; the man who held an intimate connection in the Force with Vader.
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jpauln
Registered:
May '05
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Date Posted:
6/24/05 12:25am
Subject:
Chapter 3 continued
- Date Edited:
6/27/05 2:28am (2 edits total)
Edited By:
jpauln
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Andy Harper was not afraid to admit his mistakes nor was he foolish enough to not learn from them. He’d known trouble all his life. From the time he’d been arrested for stealing a car at age nine until the day he’d committed his first, and only, murder at the age of twenty-three he’d been exposed to every trouble one could think of. He knew the enslaving addictions of drugs and alcohol. He also knew about redemption. It was never too late. He’d seen the hardest convicts on death row have a change of heart. It was the near death experience of a loved one that had finally given him the dose of reality he needed.
After he was paroled he began to volunteer at the local YMCA. He made it his mission to prevent troubled boys from making the same mistakes he had made. Mark was o | |