| Author |
Topic:
S.O.T.H. Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU w/x-overs and OC's Ch 19 up 11-2!
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Darth_Leia_6669
Registered:
Apr '03
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Date Posted:
6/2 1:06pm
Subject:
S.O.T.H. Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU w/x-overs and OC's Ch 19 up 11-2!
- Date Edited:
11/2 7:55pm (33 edits total)
Edited By:
Darth_Leia_6669
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Title: Shards of the Heart Part One: When Worlds Collide
Author: Darth_Leia_6669
Characters: Anakin, Obi-Wan, crossovers and OC'c (see notes below)
Timeframe: Part one set 2 years prior to AOTC, slight AU at this point
Genre: Suspense, action, drama
A/N: This is what happens when your mind is a blender! I have taken elements from the following, and give thanks to the respective authors:
Dragon Riders of Pern by Anne Mccaffrey
Ruroni Kenshin by Nobuhiro Watsuki
Trigun by Yasuhiro Nightow (added in Ch 16, 9-22!)
May be more, will add if it happens.
Also, I have enough already written that I will be posting once a week, probably on Monday or Tuesday. If this changes, I will let you know.
Big thanks to Kelia for the Beta!
Here's the long awaited(?) Cover Art!
Here we go!
Shards of the Heart
Book One: When Worlds Collide
Prologue: New Level
Dusk had just begun to flutter kisses of color against the sky when they appeared over the forest at the foothills of the mountains. “Does Akashath know we’re coming?” she asked her ryuu as they flew towards the towering peaks.
“Yes, I’ve told him,” came the telepathic reply. “He says that the other has not awakened yet, and that we should arrive before he does.”
“Perfect. Let’s see if I can pull this off.”
She had yet to successfully penetrate her Sensei’s hidden fortress. It wasn’t that the security was difficult for her to bypass, she had managed that years ago. No, it was that last hurdle that stumped her time and again. Though she had actually managed it once, her sensei had told her that using a stun blaster was cheating and that it didn’t count.
So she had to do it using that technique that she’d had major difficulty in mastering. Until now. Now she was confident that she had it, and could use it even under duress. Her last mission had given her plenty of time and targets for practice.
Soon they arrived at the hidden cave entrance to the fortress built into the mountain itself. Lestath landed long enough for her to dismount before flying to the perch where Akashath basked in the dying sunlight.
She paused at the entrance to pull her energies within herself before bypassing the security and making her way down the winding tunnel that led to his lair.
The Elders would be furious that she was here, more so if they knew that she’d been training with him for the last several years. They didn’t trust his ways, even if occasions necessitated cooperation between them. Still, she was well overage and they couldn’t stop her.
Testing each turn before she took it, she made it all the way down to the living chambers before she spotted Thorn, the vicious canine protector that constituted her final obstacle. He was laying before the doors to Sensei’s private chambers, oblivious to her approach. For a few more seconds, at least.
His purpose was to destroy anyone who dared enter the fortress while her sensei was either not awake or away. There was no trying to calm or reason with the animal, he would only respond to one man. The man who was not yet awake to save her should she fail.
But she would not fail. She now had a new level of confidence and power that she had been missing before.
Thorn suddenly lifted his head to sniff the air. Time was running out. She quickly reached her mind into the animal’s, finding the bright center of its energy. Then, before he could fully stand, she wrenched it out of its body and into hers.
The body seemed to fall in slow motion, landing with a soft thump on the plush flooring. At the same time it felt as though an electrical current was pulsing through her, energizing her. She was exhilarated. She had done it.
She entered the vast main chamber and made herself comfortable on the oversized stuffed bench. Then, making sure that her shields remained fully in place, she dropped into a light meditative state.
She focused on the coming of night, the only time he appeared. It was his way, and she had only questioned it once. His explanation was that the night was in his nature. The Energies were calmer at night, he had said, and it was then that his focus improved. As she had grown, she discovered the same was true for her as well. There was just something about the sun that seemed to drain her.
It wasn’t long before she sensed his awakening presence. Only a few moments later she saw the shadow enter.
He was tall and powerfully built with a face that made his age difficult to guess, though she knew he was nearly 25 years older than her. Black hair trailed loosely down his back. Confident strides brought him into the chamber, where she was now standing, ready to greet him.
“Gaiscioch Dorcha.” She gave the formal bow before he could wave it off.
“There’s no need for all that between us now,” he replied gruffly. “You have proven yourself.” He gestured for her to sit before doing so himself. “I see that you were successful this time. Very good.”
This was the closest he came to a compliment, and she was pleased.
Settling back into the wide chair opposite her, he continued. “You brought the reports?” She nodded. “Before I go over the details, I’d like you to sum up yours.”
She told him how she had been building her network of informants among those groups dissatisfied with the government, and was getting closer to some solid leads. She had found the locations of more of the hidden cells, and had found an informant that seemed to have more top-level information that has already proven useful. It was a while later that she finally ended with a list of upcoming targets, including the capital, though she had been recalled before major details had become known.
After she finished, he read the careful summary of the other report. Raising an eyebrow was the only indication of emotion when he finished.
“Are you aware of what is in here?”
“Aye, Sensei. Aoshi briefed me earlier when I met with him.”
“Hmmm.” He fell silent for a long moment. “I must admit, Okubo calling in Jedi takes me by surprise. He must be feeling rather desperate to keep face.”
“He is,” she replied. “And we haven’t trusted him or his lackeys enough to reveal ourselves. According to Saito, the rest of his Intelligence hasn’t uncovered half of what we have. Plus, he’s become paranoid of an assassination attempt.” She gave a dark chuckle. “That’s about the only thing he has really figured out.”
“Regardless, the Jedi could present a huge problem for us.” He glanced down at the datapad again, though she was sure that he had already memorized the entire summary. “They are due to arrive tomorrow, and Shinomori has already directed you to be there. I want you to meet them, and then report back to me.”
“Aye, Sensei.” Looking at his peculiar expression, she felt prompted to ask, “Is there something else?”
He continued to gaze at her, almost curiously she thought. Taking a deep breath, he finally spoke.
“Leika, I’m just thinking about how much you have grown. Your powers have finally reached the point for you to begin learning the final lesson.”
“Sensei?” Try as she would, she couldn’t keep the note of excitement from betraying her otherwise calmly questioning voice.
“Yes. It would be foolish to wait any longer.” His voice was very low, as though he was talking to himself. Then, it rose to its normal level of quiet calm. “Tomorrow. When you arrive, I will begin.”
“Thank you, Sensei.” She kept her voice low and humble, though her excitement continued to run through her. Or was that the energy still bubbling beneath the surface? It didn’t matter.
He stood, and she followed his lead. “That is all for tonight. You must make your meeting, and I have things I must do as well. Reviving Thorn is one of them.” He gestured at the canine sleeping in the heap he had fallen in. “I’m afraid that he will be in a bit of bad temper when he awakes. It would be best for you to go before that.” Giving her a rare grin, he added, “and now that you know you can do it, it doesn’t need to be done again.”
She took the warning that came with those gentle words. Giving a sharp nod of her head, she let him know that she understood.
“Good.” He clasped her right forearm. “I am proud of you a stor, and the progress you have made.”
“Thank you.” She bowed her head at the unexpected praise, struggling with her rising tide of emotion. Then she returned the gesture, and turned to leave.
“Give your mother my regards when you next see her.”
“I will.” With that, she left into the pitch black night.
Next post, Obi-Wan and Anakin arrive and immediatly the secrets begin!
-----signature-----
SOTH: When Worlds Collide http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=28532068&brd=10476 Chapter 17 up 10-8!! Master to Lisbev! Vader for Prez in '08! Check my profile for more stories and art!
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VaderLVR64
Title: Fan Fic Manager in Combat Boots
Registered:
Feb '04
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Date Posted:
6/2 1:14pm
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W with crossovers and OC's 2 years pre-
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Oh I like it!  Please PM me when you update.
Thorn suddenly lifted his head to sniff the air. Time was running out. She quickly reached her mind into the animal’s, finding the bright center of its energy. Then, before he could fully stand, she wrenched it out of its body and into hers.
The body seemed to fall in slow motion, landing with a soft thump on the plush flooring. At the same time it felt as though an electrical current was pulsing through her, energizing her. She was exhilarated. She had done it.
Chilling, and very well done! 
-----signature-----
If you have to choose between tears and laughter, remember that laughter burns more calories. Army Mom! HOOAH! Adopt a soldier: http://soldiersangels.org/
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KELIA
Title: Fan Fiction Moderator
Registered:
Jul '05
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Date Posted:
6/4 3:48am
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU with x-overs and OC's 2 years pre-
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Glad to see this wonderful story up!
You've done a great job developing your characters.
Looking forward to more
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dianethx
Registered:
Mar '02
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Date Posted:
6/4 4:42pm
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU with x-overs and OC's 2 years pre-
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It would seem that she would be a match for a Jedi. Plus she has her ryuu to help. We'll have to see just what Jedi want and how it will affect her and her teacher.
Good job.
-----signature-----
Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 9/22/08 Fragments of Illusion- http://boards.theforce.net/bts/b10475/28456473 updated 11/20/08 jedidas3's Master At last - Hope for our country
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Darth_Leia_6669
Registered:
Apr '03
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Date Posted:
6/9 12:34pm
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU with x-overs and OC's 2 years pre-
- Date Edited:
6/10 12:31pm (1 edits total)
Edited By:
Darth_Leia_6669
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It's Monday, and time for a new post. But first, the replies!
VaderLVR64: Thanks for the thumbs up! I wasn't sure if I got that part right, but if it gets your approval, I'm happy. 
Kelia: I hope I can keep up with "perfect", but that's a tough act to follow! Thnaks for the help 
dianethx: Glad you like it! And I promise, I'll finish it this time, or I'll let you hunt me down!
Next post is Ch. 1. Hope you enjoy, and look for the bonus at the end!
Thanks Kelia for the Beta!
-----signature-----
SOTH: When Worlds Collide http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=28532068&brd=10476 Chapter 17 up 10-8!! Master to Lisbev! Vader for Prez in '08! Check my profile for more stories and art!
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Darth_Leia_6669
Registered:
Apr '03
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Date Posted:
6/9 12:40pm
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU with x-overs and OC's 2 years pre-
- Date Edited:
6/16 12:20pm (10 edits total)
Edited By:
Darth_Leia_6669
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Chapter One: Welcome to the Jungle
“Unknown Shuttle, this is Omnyou Orbital Control. Please state your name and destination.”
“This is shuttle Peacekeeper requesting permission to land,” Obi-Wan replied calmly from the co-pilot’s chair. “Code 11-38-OMNY -21-84-OKUBO”
“Do you think they gave us a long enough code?” Anakin remarked once their side of the transmission was closed. Obi-Wan merely chuckled before landing coordinates were received.
From above, Omnyou reminded both Jedi of Naboo, a beautiful blue-green planet unspoiled by manufacturing or pollution. Only one of its three moons was currently visible from their position, but which one it was neither knew. However, they could see that it was just as lushly covered as the planet it orbited.
Anakin made a careful descent into the atmosphere following the course that led them to the capital city of Lopa Becatnin, one of the few large cities on the planet. They flew past wide open fields with many colorful crops and small villages clustered together before the edge of the city came into view.
Most of the buildings came no higher than two or three stories and were covered in brightly colored pyramidal roofs that lent a cheerfulness to compliment the warm white of the buildings. In the streets a bazaar attracted the citizens, none of whom seemed to be in a hurry. In fact, Anakin saw several pointing up at their ship in apparent excitement.
“Must not get many visitors here,” the young Jedi commented.
“No, they don’t,” Obi-Wan chuckled. “Most of what they see is the larger trade ships, and they land somewhere else.” He consulted the datapad they had been given on the planet. “The warehouse district is on the other side of the city, beyond the former Palace. They are rather particular about air traffic here. Most isn’t allowed at all. What is allowed is only in strictly controlled areas.”
“Why is that?”
Kenobi simply shrugged. “Doesn’t say.”
Their conversation was cut short by their destination appearing suddenly before them. Set near the edge of a lake that seemed to wrap itself around the grounds, the sight grabbed their immediate attention.
The Center was huge in comparison to the city’s buildings. Even though it was only a story or two taller than the others, it sprawled out over several blocks into a maze of gardens and buildings. The walls were a pale creamy yellow topped with bright red spires. The roofs on each level started relatively narrow at the top, fanning out towards the bottom before narrowing again for the next level. The architecture was unlike anything the padawan had ever seen.
“Whoa,” he breathed in awe even as he sighted the landing bay they had been given.
“Does take your breath away,” Obi-Wan agreed beside him.
Within minutes they were landed. Anakin noticed two people waiting patiently for them to disembark. Before he could open the landing hatch however, his master stopped him for last minute instructions.
“I know diplomatic missions aren’t your favorite Anakin, but the Council would like to see you show improvement in this.” He looked into his padawan’s eyes imploringly. “In a day or two we should begin our tour of the planet. Please try to keep your impatience in check until then.”
Anakin gave a sharp nod of his head. “Yes, Master,” he said in his most serious voice hoping to stall yet another lecture.
Apparently it worked. After holding eyes with Anakin another moment, Obi-Wan dropped his voice a notch. “While you are sitting there getting bored, I want you to concentrate on the disturbances we’ve been feeling since we left Coruscant. I know that you’ve felt the increase since we’ve entered orbit, and since we’ve landed. Keep all observations to yourself until we are assured privacy.” Raising his voice to normal, he calmly said, “Let’s go.”
It took all Anakin’s strength not to remind his master that he knew how to conduct himself on a mission. Instead he kept his voice steady as he replied with a simple “Yes, Master.”
He descended the ramp at his customary three steps behind the older Jedi. The inside of the hanger was large enough to hold a ship three times the size of theirs quite comfortably and was the same pale yellow as the outside. Small rectangular lights glowed in a ring three-quarters of the way up the high circular wall, adding to the diffused sunlight from the transparristeel dome overhead.
Directly ahead of them stood two men, both tall, thin, and with dark hair. But that is where the similarities ended.
The man to the right was the elder of the two by a good many years. His short hair was a deep brown and showed a touch of frizziness around the ends and small streaks of grey throughout. His eyes were large and light colored, perhaps green or grey. A large bushy moustache tried to cover his upper lip. His dark green outfit was obviously formal, but was utterly unfamiliar to the padawan. He instantly identified him as Governor Okubo.
Next to him, the slightly taller younger man wore a military-styled uniform in a medium blue with a pair of long swords hanging from his belt. He had sharp, narrow eyes that seemed to study the approaching Jedi intensely despite the calm appearance of his face. Narrow strands of black hair fell at interludes over his long face nearly to his chin. The rest of his hair was either cut rather short or was pulled back at the nape of his neck, but at this angle it was hard to see. His face was clean shaven, but had a menacing angularity to it, reminding Anakin of a fierce and wily canine predator he had seen several missions ago.
All this took the young Jedi the same time to process as it took to walk down the ramp.
“Welcome.” The man on the right walked towards Obi-Wan as the latter reached the bottom of the ramp, extending his right hand which was grasped and shaken. “I am governor Okubo, and it is my pleasure to have you as our honored guests.”
“It is our pleasure to be here,” Obi-Wan replied smoothly as the two men moved apart. “I am Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi, and this is my apprentice, Anakin Skywalker.”
Anakin shook the offered hand before Okubo spoke again. “This is Sehh Hajime Saito, head of my security.” Anakin recognized the honorific as the other man stepped forward and shook each of the Jedi’s hands in turn. Anakin barely suppressed a gasp of shock as he felt the Force flowing from the man. Glancing swiftly at Obi-Wan, he saw that his master had come to the same conclusion.
This man was not only strong in the Force, but was trained to use it as well.
“Come,” Okubo said, turning towards the door, oblivious to the startled Jedi. “Let’s get started.”
It was about an hour later and they were seated in the comfortable meeting chamber where Okubo had been relating the recent history of the planet and the monumental changes of the past year. Anakin had really tried to pay attention to it all, for he was sure that his mentor would question him on it later. Not to mention that this information was important to their mission.
Then again, Obi-Wan had also requested that he probe into the disturbances they had been feeling, and he was sure that the man leaning so casually against the wall had something to do with it.
Where had this Hajime Saito learned to harness the Force? He claimed to have been raised on this planet, so it was highly unlikely that he had been a Jedi at any time. It was possible that he had crossed paths with a Jedi at some point, though that, for reasons that Anakin could not really place, seemed just as unlikely.
Trying to appear engrossed in the conversation, he reached out with the Force to probe the mysterious man. Immediately he felt as though he had run into a ferrocrete wall, so strong was the shielding around him. Withdrawing, he glanced over at the expression that had remained closed since their arrival.
As if sensing the scrutiny, Saito turned his eyes lazily towards the young Jedi and raised a slender eyebrow. Anakin merely returned the gaze, reflecting the closed expression. After a few heartbeats, Okubo’s words finally broke the stare-off.
“This is why we asked for Jedi assistance instead of the normal ambassadorial delegation. There are several factions who wish the planet to remain isolated, to stay out of the Republic. Granted, we were never as isolated as they would believe, as we have traded peacefully with several neighboring systems for several centuries, and have been in contact with the Republic for some time. As for these dissident factions, they alone have caused some minor problems, but nothing we couldn’t handle in time.”
Okubo paused, and the Jedi waited expectantly. They were not entirely surprised by his next words.
“We believe that someone is working to mobilize the rebellions, but we have no clue who it could be. My Intelligence has been working diligently on this for the last several months, to no avail. I was hoping that you, with your special training, could help where the others have not.”
From the wall was a small cough that sounded awfully skeptical. Anakin risked a glance over and caught a fleeting look of irritation cross Saito’s face before the features flowed back to its impassive mask.
For his part, the governor either ignored or was unaware of this facial twitch. He picked something off his desk, and then walked over to hand it to Obi-Wan. As his mentor set it on the table beside him, Anakin saw that it was a datapad. “All the information we have at this point is on there. Unfortunately, my time with you is nearly at an end, but before we part, I will highlight some of what we have.”
The Jedi nodded their understanding. “About a year ago, when Former Emperor Kagasi stepped down to allow the formation of a democracy, random acts of vandalism began to be reported. They were investigated and several arrests resulted. That is when we first heard of the protests against the new government. Since then, the acts have become fiercer and more focused. The latest targets have been food supply to the Center and the city itself.
“We are aware of several cells scattered on this continent, with more rumored to be spread out over the Ryuoken Islands and even as far as the Te Slacinden continent, nearly on the other side of the globe.
“Most disturbing to me is the rumors of an attack planned on my life.” Here his voice dropped. “Not only is it bad for my health, but it would be disastrous for the planet as well. They’ve already claimed the death of Te Slacinden’s Minister as their work, though we have not been able to confirm this.”
He sighed, then continued in the same, subdued voice. “We’ve only recovered from our last civil war in the last five years. If these rebels are not brought to justice soon, I fear an even more horrible war for our future.”
The room fell eerily silent for several drawn out moments. Finally, Obi-Wan spoke.
“Will we be working with anyone on this?”
“You will be working with one of my squads.” For the first time in the meeting, Saito spoke. “My security forces are well trained and better informed. We will be meeting with my Special Forces after the evening meal. As the Governor has asked me to stay as his personal bodyguard, I will not be joining you in the field. However, this group is specially trained in both espionage and combat, and should work well with you.”
“What is the plan?”
Saito gave a sardonic smile. “We take it day by day.” Seeing Obi-Wan’s frown, he added, “We’ll go over it tonight.”
“There is one other thing I feel I should mention, as in the course of this you will possibly run into them.” Okubo seemed almost hesitant before continuing. “There seems to be a vigilante group that is working outside of the government against the rebellions. We have almost no information on them, so we cannot be sure of their intentions. Sehh Saito will undoubtedly fill you in”
The younger man nodded and the Governor continued. “I must leave to attend to other matters. We do have an extensive library you are welcome to visit, but I must ask you, for your safety, that for the remainder of the day to please remain within the Center compound. Tomorrow you will be leaving to begin your investigation. Please enjoy our hospitality until then.”
“We would be honored,” Obi-Wan answered for the both of them.
“Now that we have that settled, I will have young Sanosuke show you to your quarters.” He spoke quickly into his comm link and a few seconds later a tall boy of about ten entered. “Sano, I am trusting you to show our honored guests to their quarters. You won’t pester them, will you?”
“No, sir. I’ll behave myself.” The child answered with one of the most unconvincing looks of innocence either Jedi had ever seen.
Anakin watched with mild amazement as the gruff man who had been talking to them ruffled the child’s spiky hair affectionately. Noticing the expression, Okubo answered the unspoken question.
“Sano is an orphan that we have taken in. He’s good for helping around here with small errands and such, but he is definitely a very curious child.”
They shared a chuckle before Okubo excused himself and the boy led the way to the back of the building, explaining that apartments were kept for those who may need lodging while visiting the Center.
Sano promised to get them for the evening meal before leaving the Jedi to get comfortable. As soon as he left, they set to work checking for listening devices. Only when they were sure that their conversation would remain private did they compare notes.
Something didn’t feel right about the whole thing. On that point both Jedi agreed. At least they would have some time with Saitou to try to figure out where he had learned to harness the Force. Anakin was becoming convinced that somehow that would become important later on, even if he still couldn’t figure out how or why.
They also agreed that Okubo had no idea of Saito’s abilities. Then they debated whether the Special Forces might also be Force-sensitive. It wouldn’t surprise either Jedi if they were.
All in all, this mission was just like every other one on which they had been sent.
Nothing would be simple about it.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Now, for your bonus. I've been working on revamping the characters from Ruroni Kenshin for this story so you can see what they look like. Here is Hajime Saito!
Saito
*crosses fingers that I did this right...*
--later--
All the edits was me trying to figure out these links and codes and all. Still figuring this out!
-----signature-----
SOTH: When Worlds Collide http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=28532068&brd=10476 Chapter 17 up 10-8!! Master to Lisbev! Vader for Prez in '08! Check my profile for more stories and art!
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VaderLVR64
Title: Fan Fic Manager in Combat Boots
Registered:
Feb '04
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Date Posted:
6/11 5:54am
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU w/x-overs and OC's Ch 1 up 6-10
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Something didn’t feel right about the whole thing. On that point both Jedi agreed. At least they would have some time with Saitou to try to figure out where he had learned to harness the Force. Anakin was becoming convinced that somehow that would become important later on, even if he still couldn’t figure out how or why.
They also agreed that Okubo had no idea of Saito’s abilities. Then they debated whether the Special Forces might also be Force-sensitive. It wouldn’t surprise either Jedi if they were.
All in all, this mission was just like every other one on which they had been sent.
Nothing would be simple about it.
Wonderfully written!
-----signature-----
If you have to choose between tears and laughter, remember that laughter burns more calories. Army Mom! HOOAH! Adopt a soldier: http://soldiersangels.org/
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dianethx
Registered:
Mar '02
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Date Posted:
6/11 10:26am
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU w/x-overs and OC's Ch 1 up 6-10
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I liked how Obi-Wan lectured Anakin about mission parameters. The kid is so energetic.
“I know diplomatic missions aren’t your favorite Anakin, but the Council would like to see you show improvement in this.” He looked into his padawan’s eyes imploringly. “In a day or two we should begin our tour of the planet. Please try to keep your impatience in check until then.”
Anakin gave a sharp nod of his head. “Yes, Master,” he said in his most serious voice hoping to stall yet another lecture.
Apparently it worked. After holding eyes with Anakin another moment, Obi-Wan dropped his voice a notch. “While you are sitting there getting bored, I want you to concentrate on the disturbances we’ve been feeling since we left Coruscant. I know that you’ve felt the increase since we’ve entered orbit, and since we’ve landed. Keep all observations to yourself until we are assured privacy.” Raising his voice to normal, he calmly said, “Let’s go.”
It took all Anakin’s strength not to remind his master that he knew how to conduct himself on a mission. Instead he kept his voice steady as he replied with a simple “Yes, Master.”
So we are getting to know the players a bit more. The security guy, Saito, sounds like he doesn't want them there. The kid sounds cute but I'm sure there is more there than meets the eye.
Good job.
-----signature-----
Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 9/22/08 Fragments of Illusion- http://boards.theforce.net/bts/b10475/28456473 updated 11/20/08 jedidas3's Master At last - Hope for our country
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Darth_Leia_6669
Registered:
Apr '03
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Date Posted:
6/14 10:08am
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU w/x-overs and OC's Ch 1 up 6-10
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Thanks for reading!
VaderLVR64: I'm glad you're enjoying this. And no, nothing will be simple about this!
dianethx: Yes, Anakin has energy to spare. Maybe that becomes important later... . I don't know why you would think Saito doesn't want them there...  And the kid? Well, I can't say he's around much after the next chapter, for a while at least. Other than that, I can't say anything.
Next post will be Monday, assuming that something doesn't keep me from the library again. We'll meet Saito's "special squad" and find out a bit more of what's going on. See ya then! 
--later--
6669 
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SOTH: When Worlds Collide http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=28532068&brd=10476 Chapter 17 up 10-8!! Master to Lisbev! Vader for Prez in '08! Check my profile for more stories and art!
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Darth_Leia_6669
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Date Posted:
6/16 12:32pm
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU w/x-overs and OC's Ch 2 up 6-16
- Date Edited:
6/16 12:37pm (3 edits total)
Edited By:
Darth_Leia_6669
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It was a test of will power not to put this up over the weekend when I had a chance. But here we go with Chapter 2! Thanks Kelia for all the help!
As with last week, I have a bonus for you. Actually, a double bonus. More on that at the bottom!
Chapter Two: Coming Undone
Obi-Wan seemed preoccupied during the evening meal, and the Dining Hall was crowded enough that Anakin didn’t have a chance to let his mentor know of the vague disturbances he’d felt during his tour of the Center. Around them were various dignitaries, aides, and others whose jobs kept them in the Capital. The former Palace seemed well equipped to handle the needs of all who stayed. Though they stayed on the edge of the crowd, they were still too near the others for a private conversation.
Sanosuke had been their only companion during the meal, which Obi-Wan spent distractedly answering the youngster’s questions. When they were nearly finished, a short, thin young man with long flaming red hair walked up to them, greeting the child warmly. He wore a darker blue version of Saito’s uniform and a pair of long swords on his belt.
“Sano,” the newcomer said as he ruffled the boy’s spiky head. “You are behaving yourself with our guests, are you not?”
“Of course I am!” the child said, trying to sound a bit hurt. “Sehh Okubo warned me that I’d better be, or else I’ll be stuck in the kitchens for a week!”
The look of sheer desperation on the child’s face caused the others to chuckle. In an attempt to redeem himself, Sano stood and quickly changed the subject.
Adopting a more serious voice, he made the introductions. “Sehh Himura, this is Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi,” he gestured to the older Jedi, “and his padwa—pada---“
“Padawan,” Obi-Wan inserted for the now flustered youngster.
“Yes, uh, padawan, Anakin Skywalker.” He gestured then to Anakin.
The red-head nodded to each in turn before Sano turned to him. “This is Sehh Kenshin Himura.” Almost as if he couldn’t help himself, he hurriedly added, “And some day I’m going to fight him and actually win.”
“Is that so?” Obi-wan asked as Sano as the boy turned bright red. Looking at young Himura, he saw the merriment dancing in his violet eyes.
“I keep wishing him the best of luck, but so far it hasn’t done him any good, that it has not.”
“In my experience, there’s no such thing as luck,” Kenobi replied as they shared a laugh. When it died down a moment later, Kenobi offered his hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
“Same for me,” Kenshin replied as he then shook Anakin’s hand. The same sensation hit Anakin as it had earlier when meeting Saito, and again he saw that his master had felt it as well. He was beginning to think they may be right about the Force-sensitives here.
Kenshin interrupted his thoughts before they could start churning. “Sehh Saito has asked me to escort you to the meeting as he will be a bit later than planned. If you would just follow me, it is this way. Sano, you’re excused for now.”
“Yes, sir” the youth replied meekly as he turned towards the doors opposite where Kenshin was leading them.
“You will be meeting Rampive squad, the one that will be heading most of the mission,” Kenshin explained once they were on their way. “I feel I must warn you, we operate a bit differently than what you are probably used to.” They came to a door and paused as Kenshin added, “Be ready for anything.”
With that cryptic warning, he opened the door.
“Aye, I’m to report back to him after meeting the Jedi.”
“Good.” Aoshi handed her a datachip. “I have gathered more information that Kadru may find interestiong. I would appreciate it if you could pass it along.”
She took it and slipped it into a hip pouch. “Is there anything else?”
“Yes.” He looked at her, his face an impassive mask with intense blue eyes. “I want you to be careful around Toril. Though he has passed along good information to this point, I have caught some glitches that have me concerned.”
“What do you mean?” She wasn’t sure she had heard him right. “He’s my best contact within the rebels.”
His face never changed. “He’s had an effect on you that you probably haven’t noticed. You’ve begun to grow more arrogant in the last few months, and more secretive. Plus, I don’t trust him. The information he’s passed on seems a little too…convenient.”
His words sparked a sudden fire within her, one which she struggled to contain. “It’s confidence that I’ve grown, not arrogance. I’ve always been secretive because it’s the nature of my training. His information has been rather timely and has helped us stop the Myroken’s harvest from being destroyed.” She glared up at him. “And how can you not trust him if you’ve never met him?”
Though she had begun quietly enough, by the last sentence she had grown quite loud. Not screaming, but not far from it.
“Believe things how you will, but my reasons for not trusting him are simple. Haven’t you wondered why he was so willing to divulge information to someone he had just met? Yes, the information has proved useful.” He held up a hand to keep her silent another moment. “But there have been other acts of sabotage that were far worse than what we were able to prevent. I would think that someone who was ‘in the know’ as he claims to be would have been aware of plans to assassinate the Minister of Te Slacinden. I suspect that your feelings are clouded on the issue.”
The fire began to flare, but she managed to keep her voice a deadly calm. “What do you mean by that?”
“I believe that you have feelings for this man, and that your perceptions are suffering as a result.”
All she could do at this point was glare at him. She couldn’t trust herself to speak for fear that she would reveal more than necessary. It wasn’t any of his business what she had found with Toril. That was personal.
“So, I am right on this. I can see it in your reaction.”
In actuality, his voice was calm, tinged with sadness and regret. What she heard, however, was the gloating of someone who had forced an important secret from an unwilling keeper. The fire consumed her.
“Yes! You’re right!” She didn’t even try to keep her calm, or her voice at a tolerable level. “I found acceptance with him that I’ve never known. Is that wrong?” she shouted at him. Before he could make the comment she felt on the tip of his brain, she added, “No, that’s not how I was able to get the information either. Nothing happened until well after we had begun working together.”
She had continued to back up during her outburst, and now he sought to bridge the gap between them. “Leika,” he began, reaching out to her while still a few steps away, “I don’t think…”
“No, you don’t,” she spat at him. “You analyze, strategize, and organize. But I don’t believe that you actually think.”
Aoshi stopped in his tracks, stunned by the sudden malice in her voice. Her first outburst had been fueled by hurt and disbelief, but this was designed to damage.
He stared at her livid features, the manic look in her eyes, and decided that this was a topic best continued at a different time.
“We’ll finish this discussion later,” was all he said.
“We’ll finish this NOW!” Without warning she had drawn her katana, the gleaming point hairs away from the hollow of his throat. Lowering her voice, she growled at him. “You will not try to dictate my personal affairs. Got it?”
Not a muscle in his tall frame flinched. Indeed, he appeared as calm as ever as he stared into her eyes. “As you wish,” was all he was able to say before the door behind him slid open.
Obi-Wan had felt the tension as they approached the door, and suspected that the young red-head had as well. As the door slid open on the scene within, he understood the cryptic warning.
“Ah, I see what you mean,” Obi-Wan said. The tall man had his back to them, but was thin enough that the slightly shorter female on the other side was partially visible. Though he couldn’t see clearly enough to be sure, she appeared to be facing off with him. As the taller man turned slightly towards them, Kenobi saw the tip of a sword pointed at his neck. The sword dipped as the man fully turned his back on her to face the new arrivals.
“Is there a problem?” His padawan entered the room last, likely catching only part of what he had.
“No problem.” She sheathed her weapon in a fluid motion before moving across the room to sit in an empty chair. “I was just making a point to our dearly beloved leader here.” No one missed the sarcasm dripping from her words.
Kenshin acted as if the scene into which they had walked had never happened. The others were intent on doing the same. No problem, the Jedi could play along, and ask questions later.
Kenshin introduced the tall man first, who seemed to tower over the much shorter man. “This is Sehh Aoshi Shinomori, leader of the Rampive.” Obi-Wan noted that the man’s long, black hair was tied at the base of his neck, leaving a fringe of hair to frame his pale, oval face. Piercing blue eyes shone through the covering, leaving the Jedi with a feeling of being measured. He was dressed much as Saito had been, except that his uniform was the same darker blue as Kenshin’s and the swords on his belt were shorter than the others.
Turning to the young woman who was doing her best not to glare at the leader, he introduced her next. “This is Sehha Leika Shinju. She’s the one responsible for most of our intell on the rebels.”
As with Shinomori, Kenobi took in her appearance with a brief glance. Her dark red hair had streaks of black running through it, and was pulled high atop her head, split into three thick braids that trailed to the middle of her back, with a loose lock curling down the left side of her face. Her clothes were also of the same style as the two men’s, though they were black with shorter, looser sleeves. She was too far away to say for sure, but he thought he had caught a gleam of green in her eyes when they had first walked in. As with the men, she also wore a pair of long swords.
Next, he introduced the Jedi. As Obi-Wan shook hands with Aoshi, he noticed the same current of tamed Force-energy that both Himura and Saito had possessed. He was half expecting it from Shinju as well, but strangely enough, he felt nothing from her. No sense of the Force, not even what was emitted by non-sensitives. He had suspicions, but they would keep until later.
Aoshi began by explaining that Saito would be along shortly, and that he would start the meeting. First, he went over the specifics of each member’s duties. Aoshi himself would be compiling the information and organizing any movements. Kenshin would meet with some of the village leaders to determine where they stood, and search for information as he went. Leika would be in and out as she met with her various sources, in addition to any healing that would become necessary.
Then he turned his attention to the Jedi. “I do not know enough of your skills to know where to put the two of you yet. Master Jedi, where do you believe you and your learner would be of the most assistance?”
The question caught Obi-Wan momentarily off guard, but he recovered swiftly. “I believe that, given what you have just explained, Anakin would benefit from working with you. He has shown an aptitude for strategy that you could perhaps refine. As for myself, I would like to join Himura in meeting with the villagers. I have always believed that the only way to get a feel for a place is through the common people, not those in power.”
“An assessment that I agree well with.” Aoshi looked thoughtfully at Anakin. “I could work with Skywalker to start, at least until I have a better feel for his abilities. Yes, this arrangement will work.”
Obi-Wan continued to listen intently as Shinomori continued his outline, telling them how they would be leaving early after the morning meal and traveling to the Gaiscioch Dorcha Nagre, where they had their base. The mountains were isolated enough to be secure without being far enough to make travel cumbersome.
“Speaking of travel,” Anakin piped in, “what transportation will we have? I know that air travel is heavily regulated here. Does that mean landspeeders?”
The slight bit of disdain that seeped from his padawan’s final word showed what he thought of that particular form of transport.
Kenshin chuckled softly before answering. “No, not landspeeders. That is covered, as you’ll see come morning.”
Anakin seemed doubtful, but any comeback was interrupted by the door again sliding open.
It was Saito, entering with confident strides that covered the distance to Aoshi in no time. Conversing quietly, he soon turned to address them.
“I see that you have gotten through the basics,” he began in his smooth voice. Turning to the Jedi he asked, “have you had a chance to look over the information Sehh Okubo provided?”
At their nods, he continued. “As I will not be joining you, the command will be Shinomori’s.” Aoshi nodded at acknowledgement. “However, I will be in contact as the situation warrants.”
He continued for a short time, making sure that all points were covered. When he briefly mentioned the vigilante group, it was only to say that they did not believe the group would pose any problems. Then he made a comment that, in Kenobi’s opinion, was completely uncalled for.
“This group has proven more than capable on several occasions. Of course,” he said while glancing momentarily at Shinju, “some members are more prone than others at getting into trouble.” He switched his gaze towards the Jedi on the opposite side of the table. “You may be called upon to help some out of sticky situations.”
He went to change topics, and then suddenly went absolutely still.
The room went silent as the first small dagger plunked into the wall next to Saito’s head, followed immediately by a second on the other side.
Staring up at him in calm control, she pulled them free of the wall with her mind and returned them to her hand. “Insult me like that again, and next time I won’t miss.” She held them up for a second as she spoke before re-sheathing them on her left bicep.
Saito merely cocked his eyebrow before returning his attention to the others. Obi-Wan watched all this with a sense of shock. Such blatant disrespect would never be tolerated at the Temple, or many other places that he could think of. Even though his comment was unnecessary, and even a bit cruel, her reaction was equally unprofessional.
Then he remembered Kenshin’s warning before they had entered the room. It was making more and more sense all the time.
The meeting was soon called to a close, with Aoshi telling the Jedi that they would meet in the Dining Hall the following morning one hour after sunrise. Obi-Wan rose and bid them all a good night before leaving, Anakin following suit.
“Come, padawan,” he said as he led the younger man through the massive complex to their rooms. “We have much to discuss.”
The second the Jedi were out of sight, Leika also bolted out of the door. She wanted to get away before Aoshi could corner her to finish their ‘discussion’.
Hurrying down the hall, she was momentarily dismayed to hear someone calling for her. She realized it was only Kenshin, and slowed to allow him to catch up.
Even though he was older than she by two years, she had surpassed his height in the last few years. Not that it mattered to him. She was the closest he had to actual family, and they had always gotten along great.
“Leika, what was all that about?”
He’d see right through it, but she did it anyway. “What do you mean?” She made her voice as innocently curious as she could.
“You know exactly what I mean. That scene with Aoshi when the Jedi and I arrived, and throwing your kunai at Saito during the meeting? Neither is like you. Is something wrong?”
She looked into the worried violet eyes, and decided that he didn’t need the entire truth at the moment. He had enough going on. “The whole thing with Aoshi was just a misunderstanding. He said the wrong thing, and I let loose on him. We’ve got it more worked out than it seemed at the time. Nothing to be worried about. As for Saito,” she gave a mischievous chuckle, “you can’t say he didn’t deserve it. He just needed reminded that I am capable of taking care of myself.”
“Yeah, to see the look on his face was definitely worth it.” Kenshin had never really gotten along well with Saito either, for many reasons, but was always able to be professional around him. “Still, the Jedi didn’t look very amused, especially Kenobi. I’d be wary of him, if I were you.”
“Aye, I thought as much.”
“Just be careful.” He stopped and reached a hand to her shoulder. “Something’s wrong. I can tell. I just hope that you can confide in me before it’s too late.”
“It’s not that something’s wrong exactly, just a lot of stuff going on. I’m trying to hold it together, really.” She gave him one of her trying-to-win-you-over smiles. “Look, I’ll let you know about it when we get settled tomorrow, ok?”
He smiled. “Sounds good to me. Look, I’ve got to help with the supplies. Are you leaving from here in the morning?”
“No, I’ll meet you there. I’ve got to check in with…on something.” Looking around to see if any stray ears were around, she lowered her voice before continuing. “You know, in any case. I should be there by the time you arrive, if not shortly after.”
“Take care.” He gripped her shoulder for a short moment before turning to leave.
“You too.”
Walking to the secluded garden where Lestath waited with the others, she felt a surge of excitement. The older Jedi was someone to be wary of; Kenshin was no doubt right about that. But the younger one triggered something, like the memory of a half forgotten dream that she needed to remember. Something about him was important, of that, she was sure.
Clearing her mind, she leapt to Lestath’s shoulders, pulled the straps over her legs, and signaled her ryuu to take off into the night.
-----------------------------------
As I said, I've been working on pictures of the non SW characters so that those unfamiliar with them can get an idea about them. Here's one of them:
Aoshi
(edit: will only let me do one  )
As always, thanks for reading!
--later--
6669
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SOTH: When Worlds Collide http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=28532068&brd=10476 Chapter 17 up 10-8!! Master to Lisbev! Vader for Prez in '08! Check my profile for more stories and art!
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VaderLVR64
Title: Fan Fic Manager in Combat Boots
Registered:
Feb '04
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Date Posted:
6/17 6:59am
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU w/x-overs and OC's Ch 2 up 6-16
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Loved the art work!
He went to change topics, and then suddenly went absolutely still.
The room went silent as the first small dagger plunked into the wall next to Saito’s head, followed immediately by a second on the other side.
Staring up at him in calm control, she pulled them free of the wall with her mind and returned them to her hand. “Insult me like that again, and next time I won’t miss.” She held them up for a second as she spoke before re-sheathing them on her left bicep.
Saito merely cocked his eyebrow before returning his attention to the others. Obi-Wan watched all this with a sense of shock. Such blatant disrespect would never be tolerated at the Temple, or many other places that he could think of. Even though his comment was unnecessary, and even a bit cruel, her reaction was equally unprofessional.
Then he remembered Kenshin’s warning before they had entered the room. It was making more and more sense all the time.
I'll bet that WAS a shock for Obi! 
Great update.
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If you have to choose between tears and laughter, remember that laughter burns more calories. Army Mom! HOOAH! Adopt a soldier: http://soldiersangels.org/
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dianethx
Registered:
Mar '02
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Date Posted:
6/17 9:21am
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU w/x-overs and OC's Ch 2 up 6-16
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“Leika, what was all that about?”
He’d see right through it, but she did it anyway. “What do you mean?” She made her voice as innocently curious as she could.
“You know exactly what I mean. That scene with Aoshi when the Jedi and I arrived, and throwing your kunai at Saito during the meeting? Neither is like you. Is something wrong?”
She looked into the worried violet eyes, and decided that he didn’t need the entire truth at the moment. He had enough going on. “The whole thing with Aoshi was just a misunderstanding. He said the wrong thing, and I let loose on him. We’ve got it more worked out than it seemed at the time. Nothing to be worried about. As for Saito,” she gave a mischievous chuckle, “you can’t say he didn’t deserve it. He just needed reminded that I am capable of taking care of myself.”
I'd say she has a bit of a temper and isn't afraid to use it.
I wonder if Anakin's ride isn't one of those flying creatures....
Good job.
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Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 9/22/08 Fragments of Illusion- http://boards.theforce.net/bts/b10475/28456473 updated 11/20/08 jedidas3's Master At last - Hope for our country
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KELIA
Title: Fan Fiction Moderator
Registered:
Jul '05
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Date Posted:
6/19 3:29am
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU w/x-overs and OC's Ch 2 up 6-16
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In a day or two we should begin our tour of the planet. Please try to keep your impatience in check until then.”
Talk about the impossible task!
great updates
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Darth_Leia_6669
Registered:
Apr '03
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Date Posted:
6/19 12:55pm
Subject:
RE: Shards of the Heart Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU w/x-overs and OC's Ch 2 up 6-16
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Ok, I've got this evil monkey that insists on throwing rocks in here and sinking this, so I decided I'd better come in and clean them out. If you see him, please chase him off!
Ok, I'll do some replies and make this look like something ohter than the author giving herself a shamless up. 
VaderLVR64: Glad you liked the pics, but I'll confess that they were photoshopped and only a little was drawn. Thet will be changing soon when I start on the OC's.
And yes, Obi didn't like Leika throwing things at Saito, esp after what they walked in on! There's some bad feelings there, but that's all I can say for now.
dianethx: Leika have a temper? What ever would give you that idea?  And about the ride, well...
KELIA: Glad you had a chance to stop in! I hope DRL isn't being too rough. And you are right about the impossible task, but he'll manage it, I'm sure!
Thanks all for reading! And lurkers, I promise the evil monkey won't bite if you stop in!
Now for a treat. I'll be posting on Monday as usual, unless DRL keeps me from the library. Until then, here is a tidbit from ch 3. Enjoy!
They flew away from the city, over land resplendent with crops of all colors. After a few moments, Kenshin leaned forward to speak into Anakin’s ear so that he could be heard over the air rushing around them.
“Hold your breath and the straps tightly. You won’t be able to feel anything but the most numbing cold you’ve ever felt, but it will only last three seconds. Just count to three and you’ll be ok.”
“What?!” The instructions caught him by total surprise. “What are you talking about?”
“I’ll explain later. Just do it. We’re going between. Now.”
He had barely taken the breath when everything disappeared. The scenery, the sense of touch, everything except the cold that seemed to penetrate through to his very bones. Luckily, his training allowed him to keep some sense of calm, and he began counting. One, two, thr-…
Before he could complete his count, they emerged over a dense forest, the sun again warming his body. “What in the thirteen acres of hell was that?” he demanded as soon as he could breathe properly again.
--later--
6669
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SOTH: When Worlds Collide http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=28532068&brd=10476 Chapter 17 up 10-8!! Master to Lisbev! Vader for Prez in '08! Check my profile for more stories and art!
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Darth_Leia_6669
Registered:
Apr '03
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Date Posted:
6/23 12:13pm
Subject:
RE: S.O.T.H. Pt. 1: When Worlds Collide A/O-W AU w/x-overs and OC's Ch 2 up 6-16 Bonus up 6-19!
- Date Edited:
6/23 12:28pm (3 edits total)
Edited By:
Darth_Leia_6669
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Time for another post!
But first, here is the other picture I meant to post last week, but the evil monkey ate the link! (well, it was something like that at least...)
****
Now, hope you enjoy!
As always, Thanks to KELIA for the BETA!
Chapter Three: Fly Like An Eagle
The night was still thick when she left her Sensei, their meeting complete. While he had not been surprised by her description of Kenobi, just mentioning Skywalker had caught his attention. He hadn’t really commented on him, saying that he’d have to refresh his memory first. She was to report back in a few nights to hear what he had.
On Lestath, she visualized the Crystal Ship, which wasn’t a ship at all. It was actually a series of caverns on Zawdir, the otherwise barren moon that circled Omnyou. It had just enough atmosphere that she wouldn’t need a protective suit or breather provided that she didn’t stay long.
The trip took longer than normal, as the distance was much greater than from any two points on the planet. Taking a deeply enhanced breath, she gave the command to go between. After 45 numbingly cold seconds they emerged into the moon’s twilight side over the barely lit caverns.
Setting down, she jumped off Lestath and hurried into the cavern. Greeting her was the magnificent sight of hundreds of gems in a rainbow of hues glowing in the light of the phosphorescent moss that covered the massive walls. Tonight the sight didn’t stop her in wonder as it had the power to do; she was too preoccupied with her search. She opened herself up to the Energies and focused on her goal. Turning in a tight circle, she finally stopped and opened her eyes.
There it was, right in front of her. Absorbing all the light around it, only the silver veins glowed out of the black stone. The Oiche Onyx, sought for its connection to the night and ability to contain energy.
Leika walked over to it and gently cupped her right palm over it. Closing her eyes, she focused on pulling it from the wall without damaging it or anything near it. Seconds later she felt a soft pop as it came free and landed in her hand.
Holding it to her now open eyes, she looked closely at it. Now she could make out the tiny specks that comprised the silver veins, swirling the color throughout the purely black stone. The edges of the veins gave the appearance of a starry night, the veins themselves of the glow of the moons. Even at this stage, she could feel the Energy pulsing through it.
She ran back to Lestath and vaulted to her back. “Let’s get back,” she said as she pictured her destination.
Lestath, who didn’t like the air on the moon, grumbled “About time,” as she rose into the air and promptly vanished.
He sat against his ryuus soft side as he waited for her. The earliest signs of dawn played on the horizon over the water, just a smudge of lighter sky against the darkness. The cliffs overlooking the ocean were deserted at this time of night, perfect for a secret meeting.
Mariuth stirred slightly behind him, lifting his head towards the sky. “They are coming.”
“Good,”[//i] the man replied, standing and stretching as he watched the sky for their arrival. It had been a few days since he’d last seen her, and he was anxious for her arrival. He loved the feelings he had when he was with her, the dangerous games they played. The power he felt at knowing who she was while she remained ignorant of his true self. How easy it had been to make her believe that he truly cared for her, while twisting her in the direction he desired. The feelings were intoxicating.
To him, her conquest would do more than add a valuable ally to their forces. It would be like capturing a rare, exotic animal that would be his forever.
And he owed it all to his master. If it wasn’t for Sehch Shishio, he would have been nothing, not knowing his potential. He had been lucky that day, even if he’d not realized it at the time.
Within a moment the black and red ryuu appeared overhead, circling twice before landing near them. Leika jumped down and rushed into his arms. After a long kiss, they finally separated and stared at each other before he broke the silence.
“Does that mean you missed me?” he asked teasingly.
She smacked him lightly on the arm. “I could ask you the same thing Toril.” Then she leaned against him as he wrapped his arms around her. “Yes, I did, by the way.”
He brushed her forehead with his lips. “I missed you as well miurnin. How long do you have?”
“Not long enough,” she murmured. “I need to return by midmorning at the latest. There’s some stuff I’ve got to be there for.”
Yes, the game was delicious. And soon he would win. Soon, he would convince her that his path was the one she needed to tread. She was already so close, probably closer than even she realized. Her training assured that. For they knew the truth of her heritage and the secrets she kept, secrets that would give them the edge in the battles to come. Then there was the added bonus of Lestath being female, one of only three known.
That was why he had become her informant, the supposed spy. The rest was just fringe benefits.
He need only play his part for a short while longer. Then she would be his forever.
“How about we enjoy the time we have then?” His voice was full of suggestion, and she instantly agreed.
He handed her a datachip. “Before I forget,” he said as they lay beside his ryuu. Kissing her with an urgency that was only half faked, he left his thoughts behind and lived solely for the moment.
The Dining Hall was mostly deserted at the early hour appointed to their meeting. The two Jedi had arrived early and sat along the far wall, waiting for their hosts to arrive. Neither spoke much, having discussed everything of importance the night before.
Anakin was remembering their conversation from after the meeting. They were convinced that there was much more than the Rampive had revealed to them. Or Okubo for that matter. If he even knew anything, which they weren’t convinced he did. In any case, this was far from the mission on which they had been sent.
They had been led to believe that they were to help the planet during the governmental transition. Which was true enough, from a certain point of view, he mused. Seeking out mutinous factions had not been part of the request, nor was working with a group of Force-Sensitive individuals that the Governor seemed to have no clue about.
Despite all this, or perhaps because of it, he felt his excitement growing. He kept it from showing though, so as to forgo another lecture. After hearing his master’s opinion of the whole matter, he knew that he wouldn’t be happy with the direction Anakin’s curiosity was heading.
While Obi-Wan was busy worrying about a sense of darkness that seemed to hover over the group as a whole, and Leika in particular, Anakin was eager to discover how they had been trained, and how different it might be from his own training. Their swords had caught his interest, and he wondered if there was much difference between them and his lightsaber. He was hoping for a chance to spar with at least one of the members before this was done.
His thoughts were interrupted when their hosts walked in and joined them at the large table. It was Aoshi and Kenshin, but there was no sign of Leika
As if answering the unspoken question, Aoshi told them that Leika was on an errand and would be joining them at the site. They ate quickly in silence, and shortly they were following the pair through | |