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Author	Topic: What the Heart Hides. Obi, Ani, Siri - drama, humor, comfort. Complete as of 090208.
barriss31 Registered: Apr '05	Date Posted: 4/4/07 5:26pm Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040507 Yes, an update!
	I can't tell you how nice it was to discover an update was up today especially with the day I've had. Not exactly being locked in a dungeon awaiting torture but enough to give it some competition. I love Obi's sense of humor, the dry wit. Alpha is a kind of morbid comic relief. Not that your writing is morbid more so the emotionlessness of the clones. Anyway, I will make this short as I am not as eloquent today as I could be. Glad to see the update and please keep it coming. I can't wait for Siri to get back inot the action!
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Jaded_Rose Registered: Nov '06	Date Posted: 4/4/07 7:36pm Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040507 Yes, an update!
	I like the set -up for the next events, and Alpha is such a good companion for Obi-Wan, whether he realizes it or not! J_Ro -----signature----- The pen is mightier than the sword, if it has been sharpened to a fine point, dipped in deadly poison and thrown from ten feet away. But really, you're better off with a sword. -America, The Book
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Nimloth Registered: Mar '07	Date Posted: 4/4/07 11:56pm Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040507 Yes, an update!
	Hey, Valairy, actually it was a very nice update! It´s a very Obi-Wan´s trait being so selfless and spending these anguishing hours trying to entertain Alpha with ligth conversation and jokes... And Alpha is showing an endearing personality, it makes me difficult now to imagine he or his brothers acting on order 66! Nim
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Ascal_Elessar Registered: Feb '04	Date Posted: 4/5/07 1:20pm Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040507 Yes, an update!
	“What was to come,” came not long after. Whatever it is, it cant be good. Great post, looking forward to more. -----signature----- "HELLO THERE!" Member of the Obi-Wan Kenobi Fan Club "He's like fire and ice and rage. He's like the night and the storm and the heart of the sun. He's ancient and forever, he burns at the centre of time and he can see the turn of the universe."
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Luna_Nightshade Registered: Jan '06	Date Posted: 4/5/07 9:16pm Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040507 Yes, an update!
	I adored the banter between Alpha and Obi-Wan. The idea that Obi-Wan has made similar jokes with Anakin is incredibly sad. I'm glad that Alpha and Obi-Wan were able to share that kind of camaraderie--it was an engrossing conversation to overhear and I giggled quite a few times. Not exactly what I expected to do in this story, so I feel a tad guilty about it, but it was great. And yes... what is to come... oh dear. Much , VS--that was a wonderfully entertaining, spot-on-Obi-Wan post before what I'm sure will be very frightening. I adored it. -----signature----- It’s dark now and I am very tired. I love you, always. Time is nothing.
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erikawr05 Registered: Jul '06	Date Posted: 4/6/07 10:03am Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040507 Yes, an update!
	Great post , cant wait for more. could you add me to the PM list?
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obsessedwithSW Registered: May '05	Date Posted: 4/6/07 10:11pm Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040507 Yes, an update!
	I foresaw that possibility of your death and wished to forestall it. I do not wish to see you die, general, if I can in any way prevent it. Flattening you into the mud was far preferable to seeing you in the midst of an explosion. Really sir, you take too many risks. That’s what we clones are for.” “You know my feelings on that.” “Sir.” I liked the loyalty Ob-Wan inspires in those under his command. How is Siri and Anakin doing? -----signature----- Yes Darth Maul -bring sexy back! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JW8kOYvwVng Avid SiriWaner ! Stories in Bio
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Noelie Registered: Jul '05	Date Posted: 4/8/07 5:13pm Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040507 Yes, an update! - Date Edited: 4/8/07 5:39pm (1 edits total) Edited By: Noelie
	I am so sorry, I have had some frustrating problems with my lap top this week, but i finally have managed to do somethings that took less than an hour a piece! I had often wondered about how distance would do to a bond like the Jedi share, and if you don't expect silence, how upsetting that could be. And someone else asked a good question.. what of Anakin and Siri? But more of that, per your last line... what came next??????????? Thanks for the PM! Edit: (just ignore my goofy mistakes. I am yelling more at my laptop than paying the attention you deserve, I apologize ) -----signature----- The relationship that has been created in this unique universe is so memorable, and so beautiful. It makes the heart ache. As far as I'm concerned, it's canon.~Ratna on the Noelaverse Proud member of the UPR
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Valairy_Scot Registered: Sep '05	Date Posted: 4/9/07 1:14am Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040507 Yes, an update!
	Fifilla ... but I have a bad feeling of “what might come” – you’re right. Dianethx: Loved the fake rules. Good-cuz that was the hangup for me on this chapter – not so much “the rules” as being funny before torture. I mean, I go from banter to pain to angst to romance to comedy…what a mix. Loved the little backstory as well. Obi-Wan was so adorable. I just can’t help the backstory and flashbacks and I have a lot more, some longer. VaderLVR64: I've always LOVED Obi-Wan's sense of humor! Me, too! Gkilkenny: There would be nothing worse that waiting to be tortured on your own. I’m sure even a Jedi dreads it, though it never seems “real” in many stories because they bounce back so easily. I need to make this bad and very real, very painful, so it doesn’t ring false later on when Obi-Wan has to deal with it. That’s my fine line – too little torture, the repercussions will seem excessive. Too much torture, I lose the Siriwan focus and possibly go against forum guidelines. It won’t be major angst, but it will cause flashbacks and repercussions. Earlybird-obi-wan: Unfortunately, Alpha will be a minor part for a while (I’m following “canon” in this, and there’s only so much Alpha I can work in that doesn't repeat a lot of Obi-Wan’s experiences. Canon says they’re separated, so they’ll be separated.) Veloz: it's great to see Obi's sense of humor show, even in the most dangerous circumstances. That’s the best time, isn’t it? Chin up, put on a happy face, etc. ObiWans_gurl86: what to come" may not be very good at all. How’d you guess? Alley: Well I really don’t blame Anakin whatsoever. Not only because Obi-Wan is obsessively meticulous about the rules but also ‘cause well…Obi-Wan’s sense of humor can be really hard to understand a lot of times. I hate it when people sdo that ‘cause I’m always unsure if it’s safe to take it as a joke just in case they’rebeing serious. – Ah, one reason you like Anakin and I like Obi-Wan. I share Obi-Wan’s sense of humor, though I do venture into silliness and extreme puns which he doesn’t. I know what you mean about not always knowing the difference between a joke or not – I’ve been misunderstood (chewed out for being nasty or uncaring, mainly) and I’ve often not been sure how to take my boss at times, too. Barriss31: Aw, hope life is going better for you. I love Obi's sense of humor, the dry wit. Alpha is a kind of morbid comic relief. Not that your writing is morbid more so the emotionlessness of the clones. Clone “humor” is quite dry; hard to write. J_Ro: Yeah, the two make quite a pair don’t they – but not for long (for those unfamiliar with the story, I’m killing off several, er, good guys, who die in “canon” and killing one secondary character whose fate was not addressed in “canon”). Don’t worry: we’ll get more Obi-Ani battering and bantering later on, then Obi-Siri stuff…the last third is quite different in tone from what precedes it, by and large (as of this date). Nimloth: A clone – endearing? That’s a first. It just shows they have a spark of personality, I guess. Ascal_Elessar: I guess I can’t put it off any longer…it’s time to dip into the torture. Be prepared…this is just the beginning. Luna: I adored the banter between Alpha and Obi-Wan. The idea that Obi-Wan has made similar jokes with Anakin is incredibly sad. I'm glad that Alpha and Obi-Wan were able to share that kind of camaraderie--it was an engrossing conversation to overhear and I giggled quite a few times. Not exactly what I expected to do in this story, so I feel a tad guilty about it, but it was great. – now you know why I wonder how disconcerting the second part will be - from pain and angst to romance and (a touch of) comedy Erikawr05: added to the PM list, thanks. ObsessedwithSW: I liked the loyalty Ob-Wan inspires in those under his command. – true. Makes Order 66 really sad. How is Siri and Anakin doing? – I think it’s a few chapters til they show up again – they dominated the first few chapters/Obi-Wan and Alpha will dominate several, then we’ll get back to alternating viewpoints. Noelie: And someone else asked a good question.. what of Anakin and Siri? Later, later. Note 1. I may get one or possibly two chapters, probably zero, posted before I leave town (6am flight on Thursday so no posting at midnight on Thursday). I did get this chapter "close enough to satisfaction" to leave you with something after the long drought preceding the last chapter. There is probably no way I will be able to post again until the end of April unless I'm very lucky, and if I do have internet access and post, there will be no PM messages or probably any responses. Just so you know. The good (?) news is this is a long chapter Note 2: For those who asked, I'm not really big on action scenes and right now if I brought Anakin in it would have to be as an action scene. The flow of the story is such that we need to stay with Obi-Wan and Alpha for a bit, then I'll have Siri back and eventually Anakin. There are some plot points with Anakin that "play better" if you don't know what's happening with him, also. Chapter 10. Facing Ventress “Oh, dear,” Obi-Wan muttered under his breath as he surfaced from another attempt to access the Force, while keeping a mask of calm over his features. It didn’t take the prickly feeling at his neck and the slight tenseness of his muscles to tell him what was to come would be anything but pleasant. Sometimes a “bad feeling” was a mere and unnecessary companion to knowledge, as it was now. Their solitude was about to end. He sighed: he most definitely was not looking forward to what was coming, but he saw no way to evade it. Not yet. Other than the skitter of tiny claws in a far corner, or the occasional rustle of stiff clothing, it had been silent for some time. Alpha had been asleep, but Obi-Wan’s soft exclamation had instantly roused him. With a quick shake of his head and gesture towards the door, he whispered, “She’s coming.” There might be nothing to hear or see yet, but the ARC Trooper had learned to trust his general’s senses. When trouble was brewing, the Jedi knew it, even if he didn’t know how soon it would arrive. “Now,” Obi-Wan said quietly, interpreting Alpha’s look. He focused on the door and the barely audible sound of a lock, trying to hear the innards of the lock mechanism. Not a flicker of satisfaction crossed his face as he caught the pattern and filed it within his memory. He had no doubt the knowledge would come in handy someday. The narrow fringe of light underneath the door widened as the heavy door swung inwards, leaving several figures backlit by artificial light. Obi-Wan glanced at Alpha, but the man just barely shook his head: he tensed even as Obi-Wan relaxed. The Jedi refocused all of his attention on the present, for the moment forgoing his exploration of the possibilities of freeing himself. He had to admit he wasn’t at all sure what Ventress had planned. If it was his death she wanted, she had passed up several opportunities already. There was a possibility she planned to use him as bait for his padawan: the two had tangled previously and she had made no secret of her hatred for the Jedi in general, and Anakin in particular. For reasons he couldn’t explain, he felt confident that was not the explanation. She would not have bothered to take Alpha hostage if that was her plan. She wanted something, and it was something she could not obtain from a dead man. Odds were as long as he didn’t give her what she wanted, he would remain alive, and Alpha as well. He would do well not to underestimate her for one moment. Her training was less than superb, but she was clearly strong in the Force, and skillful with the blade. She had the advantage of him, at least for now. She also had no scruples. He was not going to forget for one moment how Ventress dealt with her enemies, even those subdued and within her control. What his mind barely remembered was seared in the memory of flesh – blurry eyes sensing a foot’s movement - some impact driving a jagged fragment of debris deeper within his leg – down to the very bone itself –shattered nerves and flaked bone screaming in protest…fighting nausea, fighting darkness, and fighting pain…until he spiraled into oblivion accompanied by the sound of her barking laughter. “How nice, we have company, Alpha. I hope it’s room service.” Ventress chuckled. There was no maliciousness in it, only approval. Was this woman standing before him the same Ventress? Everything about her stated her pleasure at his recovery, even the Force itself revealed no immediate threat. His concern spiked as she stepped forward with a clap of delight. “Obi-Wan! You’re feeling better. I’m so pleased.” Alpha’s training had brought him to a tense alert as soon as the door swung open; poised to act before he realized he was in no position to act. He didn’t think the Jedi was in a position to do so, either. Not yet. He had wondered when their captor would realize the Jedi was sufficiently recovered; Ventress obviously hated him with a passion, why else would she be so bent on his starting out in good enough health that she have the pleasure of reducing him to, well – Alpha still didn’t know for sure. Or why. All he did know was that his general was going to be in for a very rough time, and he along with him. This woman was not going to play by any of the rules governing treatment of prisoners. She had proven that on the journey here. Alpha didn’t understand cruelty or evil, or mercy or kindness, either. Emotions served no purpose; clones were breed for a purpose: obeying orders. ARC Troopers like he had a little more free will and ability to think independently than the average clone, since such ability was required to lead troops and strategize. Emotion, though, while not eliminated from the human structure, was largely minimized and re-channeled into purpose alone. If Ventress merely craved the Jedi’s death, she could have waited to see if the infection and fever would do the job for her, or just killed him while he was helpless. If she merely craved information, she could have started interrogating Alpha long before this. None of it made sense to the ARC trooper, but he was quite sure Ventress wasn’t planning on explaining things to him. The open door allowed low light to spill into the cell in an irregular swath that made it possible for the two captives to see each other more clearly. Both were disheveled; their clothing wrinkled and stained, shoulders hunched from arms being restrained behind them. Kenobi slowly stood, to stand loosely facing his captors, his face calm and quiet in repose. Any sign of weakness was banished, the wry humor not evident. The Jedi made a rather imposing figure, Alpha decided, even caked in mud, with one pant leg ripped and hanging open, revealing a stained bandage. Any damage Ventress had inflicted upon him during transit was either not visible or had healed, except for the smear of mud and blood across one cheek. He doubted the man was even aware of his treatment during the journey. Alpha remembered all too well; helpless to intervene he had been forced to watch. Trussed, half-conscious and immobile, Kenobi’s body had jerked and shuddered with several vicious blows, only a few grunts weakly escaping. Remembering Ventress’s parting gesture, a kick to an unprotected head, he growled deep in his throat just as he had done then. His general had lain limp on the deck; blood trickling down his cheek and neck. Ventress had looked at her blood-spattered boot and with a mocking smile had then driven the toe into the Jedi’s side none too gently before cleaning her boot upon him. Kenobi hadn’t spoken of his mistreatment and probably knew nothing but what Alpha had told him once he had woken. Alpha remembered it all too well. While he wasn’t a vindictive man - it wasn’t in a clone’s makeup - he did respect an honorable opponent. Ventress had shown no honor. It was one thing to fight an honest fight, it was entirely another to abuse the wounded, or mistreat someone unable to fight back and unconscious. He hoped someday he would be the one to make Ventress regret her actions. One simply did not take advantage of an opponent who was already down. “I am delighted to see you on your feet, Obi-Wan. I hope you are feeling well.” “For now,” he nodded; his meaning more than clear. He didn’t bother to spare a glance at the guards; they were not the real threat here and remained in the doorway as Ventress moved towards him. “Ah yes, you have regained your sense of humor; you must be recovered. Your manners, however, are deplorable. Your discourtesy in not thanking me for treating your injury is so typical of a Jedi.” “How remiss of me. I know the purpose is only to inflict more, so I do not believe thanks are required in this circumstance.” His voice was even, betraying no anxiety, only a quiet watchfulness. “However, politeness never goes unrewarded, so your care is appreciated. Thank you.” “You know, Kenobi, I’m not truly your enemy. I wish you would see that.” Obi-Wan allowed a mild look of disbelief to cross his face as he glanced pointedly at his chains. “No? I’m not a fool, Asajj.” “Oh, Obi-Wan – who treated your wound? You are so quick to jump to conclusions. Those chains are to protect me from you until I’ve had a chance to gain your cooperation. You Jedi are so quick to react to things you must see why I wished to protect myself until I knew you would at least give me a chance to talk.” “You don’t think trying to escape from one who mistreats us is unwarranted?” It was all Obi-Wan could do not to roll his eyes, or snort his answer. Last time he had been held captive, Dooku had tried a similar reasonable approach doctrine, so earnest in his apparent desire to have Obi-Wan join forces with him. Something about that thought tickled at him – it had relevance, but he wasn’t sure what. “I feared you might harm me, not just escape.” Obi-Wan wasn’t fooled by the apparent sincerity in her words. “I don’t cooperate with those who chain me. Someone should tell you this is not the way to secure my good will.” “You were feverish and probably don’t remember what happened. I restrained you for your own good.” Catching his meaningful look at Alpha, Ventress said with a note of regret, “Your clone? He doubted my intentions towards you; it was necessary to restrain him, also. Let me prove my good intentions. Aidus, free our Jedi, from his chains and then see about getting him a decent meal, something to drink, and something to wash up with. The clone, too, of course.” He accepted with a curt nod; he would be a fool not to, but he recognized psychological manipulation when he heard it. He ignored Aidus’s hot breath on his neck as he removed the chains confining his arms and legs. He glanced sideways at Alpha as he, too, was freed. A barely perceptible nod showed that Alpha understood he was to remain quiet and let his general speak for them. Once Alpha was free, the Jedi rubbed his wrists and stretched his shoulders, feeling cramped muscles protest at the movement after long restraint in one position. His face betrayed none of the pain of returning sensation, nerves tingling and muscles throbbing. His leg nearly buckled under him but he regained his equilibrium quickly by shifting his weight almost entirely upon the other leg. “I really hate that I was forced to restrain you by such means. We should be on the same side, Kenobi. It’s such a shame that you have chosen to give your allegiance to the side that oppresses innocent people.” Restraining his urge to roll his eyes – what, did she think she was talking to someone naïve, the Jedi only snorted. “What’s your game, Asajj?” As he spoke, he reached out, hoping the Force was again at his command, but he still felt blocked. That eliminated the Force shielded manacles as the problem. He managed to hide his frown, but did pick up on a small flicker of amusement in Asajj’s manner; she was aware of his probe through the Force. She was obviously strong and skilled in the Force; perhaps as skilled as he or Anakin, but she was in better health than he and that gave her an advantage. Her strength was stronger than his at the moment. For the time being he would play along; he had little choice. “My allegiance is to the Force and is not up for barter.” “The Force plays politics? You know, Obi-Wan, this war is only being fought to protect the interests of the politicians – not the sentients who make up the Republic citizenry or even many of the member planets.” There was no doubt that she knew or at least suspected some of his doubts about Jedi involvement in political matters. His prior history with the Jedi and the Senate, the endless dissection of the war and its leaders in the Holonet saw to that. The information was not highly accurate, but enough so. “There is far more at stake than political survival.” “The system is corrupt and does not serve the citizens. It has failed its citizens. You uphold a morally bankrupt system that does not work.” Who was Ventress to argue morality with him? Yet her questions were some of the same ones he had asked himself, debated with fellow Jedi, grieved about in the quiet hours of the night. “I’m enough of a realist to know no system of government is perfect, and the Separatists have no claim to superiority. What about the worlds they’ve invaded, enslaved and ruined?” He raised an eyebrow at her; he couldn’t restrain himself. He had helped free several planets from the yoke of the Separatists; he knew the lasting damage they left behind. Some planets would take years to rebuild; some of those planets’ victims would take years to rebuild their lives. Obi-Wan had no illusions about the effect of war, or its aftereffects. Long after the fighting was over, the armies decommissioned and the battlefields that had once been drenched in blood slowly become overgrown or built over, the effects would continue to be felt for years. Rebuilding always took longer than destruction. “Oh, Kenobi, you say you’re a realist.” Ventress sighed dramatically. “Do you really think you are fighting to preserve democracy? You’re fighting for the Republic, a corrupt political institution, not an ideal. The politicians don’t care about the citizens – do you really think this is about protecting the people, or is it the interests of those wanting to hold onto power?” “No system or institution is perfect but that does not mean it is not worth protecting.” “That system you profess to uphold is corrupt, Obi-Wan, benefiting none but those in charge – so don’t give me that line about justice, democracy, or fighting for the common man. Don’t tell me it’s standing up for principle, either. You’re fighting for the politicians, for their special privileges. Who loses, Obi-Wan? Who loses the most?” Everyone loses in war. Those who lose the most are the most innocent of all. “Who benefits, Obi-Wan? Is justice done? When Naboo was invaded by the Trade Federation, did the Senate act? It appointed a commission. Did the courts ever deliver justice to the people of Naboo? No, the issue still drags on in court. Did your master die for nothing?” “Leave Qui-Gon Jinn out of this,” Obi-Wan snapped. “He died to protect the Queen, not a cause. We took no sides.” Ventress continued ruthlessly on, aware she had struck a nerve from the ripple in the Force. “Officially, yes, I suppose so. So the Trade Federation had to withdraw and the Naboo were free to resume their lives; the leaders of the invasion jailed and punished.” Unfortunately, her taunt ran true. The legal wrangling had never ceased. Thousands of Naboo and Gungans had died in a trade dispute, and there had no legal repercussions even after all these years. Political yes – Chancellor Valorum had not survived a challenge to his leadership; Chancellor Palpatine came into office as unrest grew. “I am well aware of the courts failure to act.” Political wrangling was far worse than mere negotiations and diplomacy. The Trade Federation blockade and occupation of Naboo had been clearly wrong; it had not been clearly illegal. “You do believe the Naboo had the right to self-determination, though, right, Kenobi?” “Right.” His tone was wary, looking for the trap. “Just like the planets that joined the Separatists. They only want to guide their own destiny, so therefore you must support their right to choose. See how easily we agree?” Ventress’s smile invited Obi-Wan to see their commonality. Obi-Wan shook his head and observed calmly, “You sound like the last man who held me captive. Dooku was far more persuasive, but even he failed to secure my cooperation.” The Jedi did not fail to notice the slight tensing of Ventress’s muscles as he mentioned Count Dooku. He filed the information away in his mind for later analysis. “There’s a framework of laws for a reason. Disregarding them has led to utter chaos. The Senate is all but paralyzed, the courts do nothing, and blood runs all too freely. The Separatists have shown themselves willing on multiple planets to incite civil war, invade planets unwilling to join with them, and disrupt democracy where it flourishes. We have nothing in common, Ventress, except one: we both have killed and will again – but I do not like it. You do. I only kill to protect others when I have no other option. You have no such scruples. No, we are not alike at all, Ventress. I abhor war and violence.” “You will have cause to regret your words.” “I am sure I will. I do not take them back. I am a Jedi Knight, and I will not forsake the Force no matter your persuasions.” Ventress’s eyes narrowed. “So,” she hissed. “So be it.” The “negotiations” had indeed been short, Obi-Wan thought, though he had never expected otherwise. He had gained some knowledge which might be of future help. He only regretted that the offer of food and water had not materialized. “So be it,” Obi-Wan agreed. “Your attempt to extricate information from us is about to begin and I know I shan’t like it one bit. I know what evil you practice here; it permeates the very walls of this place.” The dead had been all too eloquent on what was ahead. He wouldn’t be human if he wasn’t scared. He wouldn’t be a Jedi if he wasn’t able to accept the fear and let it roll through him. “I?” Ventress was amused. “Oh, this place has been seeped in pain for generations. This place predates me; it suits me. You sense it, too? Good. Then you know what awaits.” At her command, her guards swept into the cell and advanced on Alpha while Aidus swaggered over to stand next to Obi-Wan, hooking his thumbs in his belt while staring steadily at the Jedi with a smirk on his face. As a means of intimidation it was not effective and the Jedi had to restrain a small grin, choosing instead to totally ignore the man’s presence at his side. Asajj, now, she coolly looked at him, deigning to raise an eyebrow at him and watching him instead of Alpha as her guards grabbed the ARC Trooper. “Hey, be gentle,” Alpha snapped as one guard bound his arms together again. He was backhanded across his face for his protest. “No protest, Kenobi?” “He’s only a clone,” Obi-Wan said indifferently. Alpha stiffened and stared at his general. The Jedi looked at him for a brief moment then looked away, effectively dismissing the clone from thought. Asajj’s laugh was startling in that place of shadows and stains, echoing in a weird mimicry of the echoes of long-ago screams that permeated the air. “Oh, Kenobi,” she chortled, grabbing his chin and staring into his eyes from mere inches away. “Your act is not fooling me. You only wish me to think you don’t care about him so I can’t use him against you, but I know your true weakness. You honor life. Even clones…naming them, even. You two probably planned this little act together.” “Then you should also know that I never hesitate to send men into battle to their deaths,” he replied evenly. “Even men with names.” “Indeed. Just how many Jedi and clones have died under your command, Kenobi? How many innocents?” From the suddenly firmed lips and steady stare, Alpha knew Ventress’s questioning his general on how many deaths he had been responsible for jabbed deep. The stiff exterior covered a heart weary of war and deaths, something Alpha never questioned and never understood. One lived and one eventually died, and the “when” didn’t matter. To the Jedi it did; each and every single one he had worked beside. The orphans of the “padawan pack” showed it the most openly, having all lost their masters to war and all inexpertly hiding their grief. Yet for all their apparent grief, it was the older ones who hid it better that felt it the most. Weary eyes, slumped shoulders, expressionless faces betrayed them, yet none faltered in their duty. As their clone troops did, they accepted what they could not change and did what they could. As he would do, his general would do: stand up to Ventress and make her earn every word that was torn from his lips. Ventress had a real fight on her hands, whether she realized it or not, and his general would combat her with all the mild expressions and dry humor at his command. Indeed. Just how many Jedi and clones have died under your command, Kenobi? How many innocents? She had struck a nerve; he had to try hard not to swallow against the accusation which was, unfortunately, factually true even if only an inevitable result of war. Even one is one too many, but the answer is far too many. Obi-Wan was rescued from answering by Alpha’s firm declaration and equally firm glare in his direction. “We follow the Jedi’s orders, Ventress. We have no personal feelings for them. His fate is not my concern since we are not on the battlefield.” “So…,” Asajj hissed. One of her lightsabers snapped into being and tickled near Obi-Wan’s throat, mere inches from igniting his beard, though a few hairs sizzled and curled into ash. “Should I behead him?” Her lightsaber moved lower, danced inches from his chest. “Gut him while alive?” “You have proven you don’t want me dead, already. Yet,” Obi-Wan said, ignoring the searing heat warming up his tunic. “Nor do I fear death. These games are tiresome, Ventress.” “Yes, I suppose so. There are far more effective games I can play with you, as you will soon see.” Asajj’s lightsaber was soon back on her belt. Looking over at the guards holding Alpha, she barked, “Take him away now. You, clone, prepare to talk.” Their pretense of indifference to each other’s fates all but blown, Obi-Wan decided to try a different tactic. “Where are you taking him?” He put all the command presence into his voice that he could. It was the one voice that could stop Anakin in his tracks, and for that reason was rarely employed, saved for the direst of need. For the moment, his focus was all on Alpha. “He follows order, Ventress; I’m the one who gives them. You want information; you try and get it from me.” She turned her attention back to him and tapped a foot on the floor. “Oh, don’t worry, Kenobi. Your precious clone won’t be terribly harmed, not if he tells me what I want to know. I merely want information from him – unlike you.” “Don’t tell her anything, general, I can handle whatever she throws at me,” Alpha said grimly. A moment later one of the guard’s fist smacked into his face. At the same time, Aidus matched the gesture, knocking the Jedi’s head sideways with an open-palmed slap that left a deep red stain on the pale skin. “Tsk, tsk, such ungentlemanly manners,” Asajj said, circling Obi-Wan as he looked steadily at her despite the blood welling from a cut lip, ignoring Aidus now standing behind him. “Clone, and you, too, Obi-Wan, each of you suffers if the other doesn’t cooperate, got it?” One of the guards had dug his fingers into Alpha’s shoulders and forced him to stop and turn around as Aidus grabbed Obi-Wan’s head and twisted it to face Alpha at a signal from Asajj. He had been itching to force the Jedi’s attention where his eyes were already focused anyway. Obi-Wan steadily eyed Alpha. Ignoring Aidus’s hands clamped around his head, Obi-Wan turned his eyes back to Ventress. “Rules of combat state that once an enemy combatant has been subdued -,” Obi-Wan waited until his head stopped ringing, “undue force is prohibited -.” Alpha winced as his general started to protest, and was backhanded across his face for his efforts. It didn’t stop Obi-Wan: another protest, another slap. What stopped the Jedi was Alpha’s look: less a plea than recognition that protesting accomplished nothing. Even the Jedi realized finally protests didn’t do any good. The two men looked at each other and nodded in a silent understanding. Each would have to face his own ordeal, on his own, without concern for the other. Just before Alpha was prodded forward, the Jedi let the corner of his mouth quirk up in a silent salute. As Alpha was all but dragged out of the cell, he threw a last look over his shoulder and saw the Jedi’s arms dragged above him and fastened to some unseen projection. Before the door swung shut behind him, he heard the general’s clipped and cultured voice, sounding, he was sure, amused. ** There was only the sound of a few shuffling footsteps before the door swung shut, leaving Obi-Wan alone with Aidus and Ventress. This time Aidus’s itch to manhandle the Jedi was satisfied as he grabbed Obi-Wan’s head and twisted it away from the door to face Ventress, his fingers digging deeply into the soft skin below his jaw. Obi-Wan’s eyes blazed for a moment, and then with an almost audible sigh, he relaxed and offered a mild, “ow.” Without warning his head swung sideways and his vision swam with spots of color. He had not sensed that coming, had not prepared to absorb the blow, and that was a concern. His grasp of the Force was still tenuous. “You know, torture is not an approved form of warfare nowadays. There are many other much more civilized ways of trying to obtain information. You are more than welcome to try them.” “Oh, I suspect I won’t get much in the way of information from you, Jedi.” She hissed the last. “You seem rather – resistant. However, I want so much more from you than that. You would probably far prefer it if that was all I sought. You are all but helpless already and I assure you, you will be totally helpless before long and I shall have my revenge.” Her choice of words rather startled him. Revenge? What had he done to merit revenge? Revenge was usually personal, retaliation for a perceived wrong and he had never had any dealings with Ventress that he was aware of. Anakin, yes, but not him. He was well aware that the Separatist leaders resented Jedi involvement in the war, but their enmity had never been directed at any individual Jedi. Even on Geonosis, Count Dooku had presented himself as a clear-thinking political idealist, seeking to ally Obi-Wan with his cause and taking no personal affront from Obi-Wan’s refusal. So far, no one on the other side had made it personal; he wondered why Ventress did – and why he was her target. It was Anakin who had faced her and gained the upper hand recently, though the outcome had been essentially a draw, considering both parties remained free and whole. He raised one eyebrow and said chidingly, “Revenge is a destructive emotion, Asajj. You only hurt yourself.” “As it shall hurt you, Obi-Wan. In all sorts of ways and some you couldn’t even begin to imagine as yet. I can be – quite creative. Shall we begin?” Can I say no? Very well. Obi-Wan did his best to stand straight, adopting a casual posture of preparedness without bravado. The moment was spoiled as he slightly stumbled; he was just a bit dizzy after all the jolts to his head in the last few minutes. “I doubt I shall enjoy your fun,” he said agreeably, trying to decipher if his comebacks were making the situation slightly more or less bearable. He couldn’t tell, but Asajj did seem to return his barbs with her own. Until he was proven mistaken, he decided to maintain his casual air and banter as long as he possibly could. If that tactic failed, he was not averse to trying another, for what was to come was surely a battle. “Not unless it’s a warm shower and a nice meal. You did promise that before and never delivered.” “You are hardly the picture of a noble Jedi knight,” Asajj agreed. “You are a deplorable mess, Kenobi.” “Indeed I am. That’s why I’d like to wash and get out of these clothes into something more - civilized.” “I think I can remedy the situation. The sight and smell of that – soiled cloth – offends me,” Asajj sniffed. “You? Think how offensive I find it,” Obi-Wan retorted. “Then we shall have to get rid of it. Aidus.” At the nod of her head, and a succinct command to “remove it;” Aidus grasped the neck of the Jedi’s tunic and tried to rip it off, but the fabric wasn’t responsive enough, the pull merely shifting Obi-Wan on his feet in an attempt to maintain balance. Aidus produced a vibroblade and swiped none too carefully at the neckline, the tip nicking skin and slashing downwards. Soon the Jedi was freed from the clothing, a trickle of red beads following the path of the vibroblade’s tip as the now tattered rags fell by his feet. What ordinarily would have had Obi-Wan blushing was instead a relief. He smiled pleasantly at Asajj. “See, no hidden secrets.” Obi-Wan was truly grateful to have the damp and smelly clothing away from his skin. It had not provided warmth for a long time. Soiled, damp, stained, it had provided nothing but a rash and modesty. It offered no protection against whatever Asajj had in mind, either, not being impervious to lightsaber, vibroblade or blows. “Dispose of it, Aidus.” “Thank you, it’s nice to have laundry service, though it could have been more timely,” he offered off-handedly as Aidus kicked the pile aside, hiding a grin at Ventress’ surprise. His hidden amusement was momentarily dampened as Asajj looked him over disdainfully; her eyes pausing for a moment as she stared at a portion of his anatomy usually not visible. “So, my little Jedi,” she deliberately baited him, “you still make your little jokes.” Her gaze was a bit disconcerting, but Obi-Wan ignored it as best he could. A certain oft-repeated and favorite Jedi adage entered his mind, unbidden. Why that saying of Yoda’s, he wondered, since it had no relevance to the situation. Anakin was right; he did have a rather strange sense of humor. Obi-Wan found it hard not to chuckle – he wondered what Yoda’s reaction would be should Obi-Wan repeat it now. Jedi could not be taunted with insults. On the other hand…his eyes brightened and he spoke the phrase, and had the satisfaction of seeing Ventress’ eyes harden. She had not expected this kind of response from him. She expected him to feel vulnerable and exposed, belittled, not trading taunt for joke. He had succeeded in knocking her off balance, but his amusement faded into a half-swallowed gulp as her hand rested on the hilt of her lightsaber. “This can take off more than limbs and heads,” she said calmly. “I strongly suggest you cooperate, Obi-Wan, not mock me.” He wasn’t fond of the idea of mutilation, so he held his tongue. “I want something from you, Jedi,” Asajj stated. “Let me tell you now, you will tell me what I wish to know and you will suffer. The longer you take to tell me, the more you will suffer, so you might as well talk now. After that, well, there are things I want of you.” Let the fun begin…his own eyes hardened. ‘I will tell you this, Ventress, you will not know if I tell you truth or lies if I speak at all.” Interrogation classes taught Jedi that eventually anyone could be pushed past his or her own breaking point and that when the point was close to hand, it was better to start speaking a mixture of truth and falsehood before one reached the breaking point. The two stared calmly at each other, faces inches apart. This battle started now, and Obi-Wan would not back down from a battle he was forced into. The interrogation began. ** Alpha waited. Somehow dragged, pushed and prodded all at the same time, he had surveyed his surroundings as he was moved from one cell to another. The hallway was brighter than the cells, but not inordinately so, still, it was enough to make his eyes water. He eyed the guards, calculating if he could break free, but these guards were more than just guardians of the prisoners. They were battered and scarred; veterans of many battles. A blaster was constantly trained on him and he knew should he make a move he would be shot before he could do more than take several of them down with him. Alpha was hauled only a short way and his own clothes roughly torn off him. It was an old trick, meant to make the victim feel powerless and exposed. It would not faze him or the Jedi either, Alpha was sure. He was again chained to something. He had less freedom of movement now, forced to remain standing as his chained arms were fastened to the wall at mid chest height. Bound in place, he had nothing to do but await his own fate. -----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
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Gkilkenny Registered: Mar '04	Date Posted: 4/9/07 4:53am Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040907 Another update!
	Obi-Wan uses his humour as a self defence mechanism. I love your descriptions of their war of words. It is a shame Obi-Wan doesn't have the force he would show her a trick or two Excellent update. -----signature----- Proud Padawan to p_stotts Peace over anger - honour over hate - Strength over fear. Links to Stories in my Bio. Obi-Wan forever.
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Nimloth Registered: Mar '07	Date Posted: 4/9/07 6:47am Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040907 Another update!
	What a thrilling and satisfyingly long chapter (well, I really have never enough, but…) Very interesting the Asajj´s questioning of Obi´s ethics about war. Who was Ventress to argue morality with him? Yet her questions were some of the same ones he had asked himself, debated with fellow Jedi, grieved about in the quiet hours of the night. She is trying to taunt him, but she touches there a tender point, obviously an unresolved dilemma for the jedi, teared between their pacifism and the loyalty to the republic. And this continues being an anguishing waiting for the very bad things that Asajj is preparing !
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VaderLVR64 Title: Manager Emeritus Registered: Feb '04	Date Posted: 4/9/07 7:49am Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040907 Another update!
	I think that was my favorite chapter of this story! And that's saying a lot! “I really hate that I was forced to restrain you by such means. We should be on the same side, Kenobi. It’s such a shame that you have chosen to give your allegiance to the side that oppresses innocent people.” Restraining his urge to roll his eyes – what, did she think she was talking to someone naïve, the Jedi only snorted. “What’s your game, Asajj?” As he spoke, he reached out, hoping the Force was again at his command, but he still felt blocked. That eliminated the Force shielded manacles as the problem. He managed to hide his frown, but did pick up on a small flicker of amusement in Asajj’s manner; she was aware of his probe through the Force. She was obviously strong and skilled in the Force; perhaps as skilled as he or Anakin, but she was in better health than he and that gave her an advantage. Her strength was stronger than his at the moment. For the time being he would play along; he had little choice. “My allegiance is to the Force and is not up for barter.” “The Force plays politics? You know, Obi-Wan, this war is only being fought to protect the interests of the politicians – not the sentients who make up the Republic citizenry or even many of the member planets.” There was no doubt that she knew or at least suspected some of his doubts about Jedi involvement in political matters. His prior history with the Jedi and the Senate, the endless dissection of the war and its leaders in the Holonet saw to that. The information was not highly accurate, but enough so. “There is far more at stake than political survival.” “The system is corrupt and does not serve the citizens. It has failed its citizens. You uphold a morally bankrupt system that does not work.” Who was Ventress to argue morality with him? Yet her questions were some of the same ones he had asked himself, debated with fellow Jedi, grieved about in the quiet hours of the night. “I’m enough of a realist to know no system of government is perfect, and the Separatists have no claim to superiority. What about the worlds they’ve invaded, enslaved and ruined?” He raised an eyebrow at her; he couldn’t restrain himself. He had helped free several planets from the yoke of the Separatists; he knew the lasting damage they left behind. Some planets would take years to rebuild; some of those planets’ victims would take years to rebuild their lives. Obi-Wan had no illusions about the effect of war, or its aftereffects. Long after the fighting was over, the armies decommissioned and the battlefields that had once been drenched in blood slowly become overgrown or built over, the effects would continue to be felt for years. Rebuilding always took longer than destruction. Yes, I know I quoted a large passage, but this whole thing was just so... so Obi-Wan! I loved it. Perfection. -----signature----- R.I.P John, Alex, Jason, and Christian Never forgotten Soldiers' Angels http://soldiersangels.org/ 2114 soldiers waiting for someone to care
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earlybird-obi-wan Registered: Aug '06	Date Posted: 4/9/07 8:24am Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040907 Another update!
	Having watched Band of Brothers this weekend (the last 4 parts) and now this. Your description of Assajj and Obi-Wan is perfect. Great update and enjoy your hiking trip. -----signature----- writer and Star Wars fan FANART [link=http://boards.theforce.net/fan_art/b10020/25793899]fanart[/link] stories in my bio
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ObiWans_Gurl86 Registered: Nov '06	Date Posted: 4/9/07 8:33am Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040907 Another update!
	This was a nice LOOONNNGGG Chapter, and a very godo one at that. wow Obiwan and Alpha are so strong and cool to say the least, I would be crying by now pleading to be killed or just set free lol. I wonder how this battle will insue, it shall be intersting no doubt abotu that. Good Job Can't wait for the next post, have fun on Vacation -----signature----- ObiWans_Gurl86 Obi Wan is the best Jedi Ever!!!! "The meaning of life is change."-Obi Wan Kenobi "Do or do not there is no try."-Yoda "Patience exists to be tested."- Count Dooku
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dianethx Registered: Mar '02	Date Posted: 4/9/07 9:00am Subject: RE: What the Heart Hides. Obi-Ani, Siriwan. Ch9 posted 040907 Another update!
	Have fun on vacation. I loved the banter between Obi-Wan and Ventress. He was taunting her, without seeming to do so, just with his little quips and resistance to her ideas. Loved that Qui-Gon's death struck a cord with him. This was lovely, if I can call it that. Rivetting. Great job. Looking forward to more.. eventually. -----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
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