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  1. In Memory of LAJ_FETT: Please share your remembrances and condolences HERE

Saga Eye of the Storm: Alchemy, post-Order 66, OCs, romance, drama, final in series, updated 10/19/15

Discussion in 'Fan Fiction- Before, Saga, and Beyond' started by laloga, Jan 26, 2015.

  1. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    Title: Eye of the Storm: Alchemy (third in a trilogy)
    Author: laloga
    Characters: OCs: (Kalinda Halcyon - Jedi Knight, Captain Stonewall & Shadow Squad - clone troopers)
    Genre: Drama, Adventure, Romance, Mystical weirdness
    Era: post-RotS
    Rating: T
    Summary: After Order 66 and the fall of the Republic, a group of Jedi and renegade clone troopers struggle to create a home on a strange and distant world. Drama/romance with mystical notes. OCs. Sequel to Wild Card and Bastion, and features OCs.
    *****


    Eye of the Storm: Alchemy
    Prologue
    Lonely the life that once I led.
    Strange the paths on which we tread;
    Led me to you, unlikely but true.
    Sabra girl, clouding my view.


    While the Jedi Knight, Jonas Ki, waited for his shuttle to land at the Temple on Coruscant, he considered the future of his daughter.

    Even from within the padded interior of the ship, the hiss of extending hydraulics was loud, and for a few moments Kalinda stirred in his arms, her face squinting up in a mewl that thankfully didn't turn into anything more. Even so, Jonas peered down at her, reaching a tentative hand to stroke her cheek with his forefinger, calculating how long it had been since she'd last eaten, and trying not to let himself be overwhelmed by the press of sorrow that threatened to consume his whole heart

    While the shuttle settled against the hangar, he brushed his daughter's mind with the Force and took solace in her bright presence, in the shining energy that she exuded which filtered through his dark thoughts and darker memories. He heard the pilot announce their arrival, then felt the rush of displaced air brush his cheek once the hatch opened, but even as he carefully gathered his pack and stepped off of the sleek shuttle, Jonas didn't really believe he wasn't on Mundali any longer.

    No more birds, at least, he thought, his mouth twisting into a wry grin as he exited the empty hangar and made his way to the Temple's interior. I won't miss them.

    It was better to try and dwell on mundane things, as he knew that his experience on the Outer-Rim world would affect him for the rest of his life. As if reminding him of the fact, Kali shifted in his arms and he sighed. “You're hungry, aren't you, little one?” She burbled a reply and he chuckled despite his bone-deep weariness. “I promise you'll get some dinner, soon.”

    Breakfast, I should think.” The familiar voice of his friend, Qui-Gon Jinn, made Jonas pause in his tracks. Glancing over his shoulder, he noted the large frame of his fellow Knight step away from the hangar's edges and cross the smooth floor to greet him. It only took Qui-Gon a few strides before he met Jonas, and for a moment the two of them stood in silence while they each regarded the bundle in the blond Jedi's arms. There was a gentle prodding of the Force against Jonas' awareness from his friend, as if the taller man was assessing his mental state before asking the questions that were certainly on his mind.

    In response to all this, Jonas sighed. “I must get her some food, regardless of the time of day. We can speak afterward.” He turned to make for the entrance to the hangar, gripping Kali just a little tighter as he did so.

    You're exhausted, Jonas,” Qui-Gon replied, his voice quiet and filled with compassion. “You should take the child to the creche.”

    But the blond man only shook his head and continued his stride, hugging the bundle even closer to his chest and trying not to think of her mother, of Kamala. “Not now, Qui.”

    In his fashion, Qui-Gon said no more as they headed to Jonas' quarters. Once the door to his room slid shut behind them, Jonas all but sagged against the panel, as if the weight of the past year or so had finally settled upon his shoulders. I can't do this, he thought as Kali gurgled and began to squirm, hunger causing her to grow restless. I never should have let myself-

    The sound of his daughter's wail cut off the thought and he looked down at his feet, wondering where he'd dropped his pack.

    Is this what you're looking for?” Qui-Gon was holding a bottle of the formula that Jonas had acquired from Master Altis. With a nod, Jonas took the bottle and offered it to his daughter, feeling the muscles in his back loosen as she quieted and began to eat. The next thing he knew, Qui-Gon was steering him towards the small couch in the center of his quarters, and soon he felt himself sinking into the padded cushions.

    Jonas cast an apologetic look at his friend, who stood by, arms crossed behind his back in a non-confrontational manner, watching the Jedi and the infant with an unreadable look on his face. “You're growing a beard?”

    This made Qui-Gon chuckle as he ran his fingers across the newly-grown hair on his chin. “I'm trying. Does it look bad?”

    It looks...dignified,” Jonas replied, adjusting the bottle so Kali could get a better angle. “Very Jedi-masterly.”

    Jonas-”

    I know,” the blond Jedi replied, closing his eyes tight, just once, as if he could shut out the worry and sense of bitter regret. As if remorse would make any excuse for his actions. Kali continued to work at the bottle, her enthusiasm for the formula belying any earlier crankiness. After another moment, Qui-Gon took the seat next to him and leaned forward, elbows on his knees, emanating a mixture of curiosity and worried anticipation at the story that was about to unfold.

    Another few minutes passed, then Jonas took a deep breath and recounted the sequence of events that had brought him to this point. It took him the better part of an hour, by the end of which Kali had fallen asleep in his arms. Once he'd finished, he shot a look at his friend, who'd listened without speaking, only asking for clarification on a few points. “Master Altis – Djinn, I suppose I should call him, now – helped a great deal. Once I managed to make contact with him, he picked us up and provided...her with the necessary care.”

    His face clouded and he was silent for a moment while his mind was cast back to Mundali. It will never leave me, he thought, closing his eyes once. Or perhaps I left a part of myself behind when she died.

    There was a gentle noise from Qui-Gon which made Jonas lift his head in a single nod, then he continued speaking. “Since I knew nothing of infants, after Kali was born Djinn provided me with the items I'd need until we reached the Temple.” His daughter shifted in her sleep and he touched her mind again, marveling at the kaleidoscope of light and colors that made up her presence in the Force, and wondered if it was so for all babies, or if his was special.

    And her mother is...gone?”

    Kamala. Jonas felt his throat tighten at the memory of the dark-eyed woman who'd captivated him so completely in such a short span of time. Kali stirred and nestled her face into the blanket he'd wrapped her in, just a breath away from his own heart beneath his chest. Were we brought together to create her? I can think of no other reason for such a thing. Nodding, he reached a slender finger to stroke his daughter's forehead and found that he was able to smile despite his sorrow.

    Qui-Gon was silent again. Though his eyes were on Kali, Jonas could feel that his friend's attention was far away, and for a moment he was relieved to have someone else nearby, someone who could – not take on his burden for him – but perhaps share it upon occasion. When Qui-Gon spoke, his voice was careful. “She's strong with the Force. You wish for her to be trained as a Jedi?”

    It's one of the few things her mother asked of me,” Jonas replied, thinking of Kam's insistence. “But I won't...” He frowned and looked at his daughter again. “I can't let anyone else train her.”

    This made Qui-Gon's brow lift. “You know that the Council will never allow it, Jonas.” His mouth quirked, then straightened. “I'm the one that's supposed to give them trouble, remember?”

    Jonas smiled at this, but the expression widened when he caught a trace of his daughter's dreams through the Force. They were nebulous and strange, but they were beautiful. She will be beautiful, he thought as he grew lost again, looking at her. And strong. And brave. She will be a great Jedi, one day.

    For now, though, she was a baby, and her peaceful sleep reminded him how tired he was. “Altis has...offered to provide a suitable back-story to explain her presence,” he said at last, thinking over his conversations with the Jedi Master in the days following Kali's birth. “I will say that her mother died in childbirth, and I brought Kali here to be trained. It's the truth, from a certain point of view.”

    And you will offer to train her?” It was a credit to his tact that Qui-Gon allowed no skepticism to seep into his words.

    Tilting his head down, Jonas breathed in the new, soft scent of his daughter's skin, thinking that there was nothing else in the universe that he loved nearly as much as the fragile person in his arms. “I won't offer – yet. She's too young, anyway. But once she's old enough I'll take her as my Padawan.” A memory made his throat tighten. “Kamala also asked me not to tell her about...what happened. She figured that Kali will have enough trouble in her life as a Jedi without knowing about Mundali.”

    Qui-Gon dipped his head; it was an acknowledgment of the truth of the statement as much as a sign of respect for the request that Jonas was going to honor. “It is a heavy burden for anyone to bear,” he said, studying his friend. “Even a grown Jedi Knight.”

    I have no other choice,” Jonas replied, eyes still on his daughter as if nothing else existed. “And I won't tell her about our...connection.” A flare of agitation rose from Qui-Gon at these words, which made Jonas meet his friend's gaze. “For as long as I can. She doesn't need...that, too.”

    I wish it was easy to know what another person needs, but often it's not for us to say,” Qui-Gon said, shifting on the couch to study the baby for a moment. He was quiet for a few minutes before he spoke again. “She is beautiful, Jonas.”

    In her sleep, Kali stirred in his arms and made a soft gurgle of sound that he hoped meant she was happy; in that moment, Jonas felt his heart swell again with love and that fierce, protective urge he'd never experienced until the first time he'd laid eyes on his daughter. One day, he thought as he watched her. One day you'll be an adult and a Jedi Knight, and have all of the trouble that comes with both of those things. But right now, you're just my little Kali.

    I know,” the blond Jedi replied at last, his voice filled with awe as he continued to gaze at his child. “She's perfect.”

    ******

    Welcome to the new(ish) story!

    Alchemy is the final part of the Eye of the Storm trilogy saga, which features my OCs. If you have not read the preceding fics, Wild Card and Bastion, this one might not make a whole lot of sense.

    This was originally written as one of the epilogues, but it didn't really fit with the others, so I decided to push it to the front of the story. The next chapter will technically be the beginning of Alchemy, and will contain more information, author's notes, disclaimers, etc. For now, I hope that you enjoy this little “teaser.”

    SerendipityAEY beta'd this story many moons ago.

    The song lyrics are reprinted without persmission from Nickle Creek's, “Sabra Girl.”

    Please leave a comment if you are so inclined. Thanks for reading!
     
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  2. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    Here we go!
     
    laloga likes this.
  3. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    Eye Of The Storm

    So, here we are at last. Welcome to the third and final portion of the trilogy that's occupied my life – and taken hold of my sanity – for a long time.

    This fic will be different from the previous two for several reasons, one of which being that there are excerpts from Kali's mother's journal at the beginning of each chapter. Additionally, it delves into the realms of fantasy and mysticism, while also featuring brief jumps around in time, based on point-of-view. You have been warned.

    It's also longer than the other stories I've written, totaling twenty-nine chapters and three epilogues. As with the rest of my fics, it ties in and alludes to events that have occurred in other stories; you don't have to have read anything else to “get” this story, but it's always recommended! [not-so-shameless plug]

    As always, reviews, comments, speculation and anything else you care to say are all appreciated. For whatever passes for legality around here, I don't own Star Wars and am not making any money off of this venture.

    Enjoy!



    Part Three: Alchemy
    No walls can keep me protected
    No sleep,
    Nothing in between me and the rain
    And you can't save me now,
    I'm in the grip of a hurricane
    I'm gonna blow myself away.

    “No home, I don't want shelter,
    No calm,
    Nothing to keep me from the storm,
    And you can't hold me down,
    'Cause I belong to the hurricane,
    It's gonna blow us all away.”







    Chapter One: Emancipation

    Finally, I have accepted the inevitable. I have made peace with the bare facts of my existence and the understanding that time is not something I have in abundance. I am a pauper of days. So it seems the cruelest trick of the universe that we should meet now, when I have no time. When my days are most definitely numbered.

    The Jedi claim that there is no death, that there is only the Force, but those words have always sounded hollow and complacent to me. Perhaps it's because I have so little Force ability; perhaps it's because I have nothing left besides remorse and fear. Perhaps it's because at night I look up at the stars and try to focus on their lights, but I see only the empty void that surrounds them.

    However, despite all of this, I pray there is something I can do to save your life.

    *

    The world of Aruna was nothing like Crest remembered.

    When last he and his squad had been to the planet, it was a thing of beauty, a shimmering orb of color and life, filled with people who thrived on the memory of the innumerable days of their own history; who welcomed the arrival of spring with fresh flowers and rainbows created by hand, a celebration that was filled with music and laughter. The capitol city of Rudral had been – and still was, in his memory – the most beautiful place in the galaxy, and it was not just because she lived there. Vibrant with life, humming with an innate joy and glittering with buildings made of some ancient stone that refracted light, Rudral was a place that Crest often visited in his dreams.

    But it was all smoke and ashes now.

    From their position within the shadows of a well-placed alley, the clone Crest stood beside his brother, Stonewall, and stared at the wake of devastation that the fledgling Empire had leveled on the once-beautiful city. Where the marketplace had once been dense with pedestrians and vendors, there were only a few stray animals snuffing for scraps along with a lone beggar sifting through the remains of a trampled kiosk. Tattered flecks of flimsi skittered by and the entire area was silent save the occasional moan of wind. His throat was tight as he swallowed. “I can't believe it's the same place.”

    Stonewall – the former captain of their former squad – nodded, but kept his electrobinoculars focused on a point across the market square from where they were crouched and waiting. “I know.”

    If there was any doubt that we're doing the right thing...” Crest couldn't bring himself to finish the thought, so he just shook his head and shifted in place, his boots scuffling the smudged cobblestones.

    But his brother seemed to know anyway, and it wasn't just because he could use the Force – though that probably helped his intuition – as he lowered the electros and gave the bald clone an understanding look. “We're definitely doing the right thing, Crest. But you have to be patient.” He indicated a broken-down temple at the far end of the marketplace. “It's about time. They'll be coming soon. No unfriendlies, yet.”

    Despite the fact that Crest knew that the stormtroopers were clones like himself, he'd heard rumors that some of them weren't from Fett's DNA, and were instead created by a much faster process, though they were said to be far less competent. Many long nights with the other men of his squad had been spent in discussion of the matter, and he'd seen them exhibit similar degrees of remorse and bitterness over their mutual decision to desert the GAR, even before they'd all been labeled fugitives by the new Empire. However, despite all of this, he found the idea of fighting men he once would have called brother unsettling, so for the moment he tried to ignore the thought in order to fulfill the mission, as he had done so many times before.

    Within the pocket of his coat, his fingers closed around one of the flash-bombs he'd brought along; the action brought Crest a measure of comfort and he found some of his old humor returning as he nodded. “Good. I'm about ready to distract the kriff out of those Imperials.

    As he lifted the electros again, Stonewall shot a glance at his brother. “I'm with you, vod.” The two men were silent for several more minutes until the former captain's entire body tensed, causing Crest straighten his spine.

    You see Kalinda?”

    Despite the gravity of the moment, Stonewall smiled at the mention of the Jedi. “Nope. But I know she's there.” He gave a brief nod and lowered the field electros, folding them into a compact size that could clip to his belt with ease. “They're both there; no sign of any stormies, either.”

    Some knot that had been expanding within Crest's chest over the last five months – since the rise of the Empire and the downfall of the Republic that he once fought for – began to unravel, so he pulled out a second flash-bomb from his pocket and readied it while Stonewall lifted his comm.

    Trax. It's almost time.”

    There was a brief moment of static before their brother replied in a clipped voice. “Understood. We're standing by.” The secure channel that they'd rigged up was not quite as reliable as the ones monitored by the Empire, but they didn't have many other options at this point. No one did, really, in more ways than one.

    Crest took another breath and flexed his calves, confident that he was prepared to run as fast and for as long as it was needed to get their charge to safety. Since he couldn't see the Jedi Knight, Kalinda Halcyon, as she escorted the focus of this rescue mission, he followed Stonewall's gaze, trusting that his brother would know exactly where the Jedi was located.

    After all, she was his wife.

    Never thought I'd be able to say that, he thought as he checked his pockets one last time to establish that the rest of his dets were secure.

    Fifty meters from our position,” Stonewall murmured. “Give or take.”

    The bald clone's hand tightened around his bomb. “See any stormies yet?”

    Negative. The next patrol shouldn't be through for another few minutes.” Stonewall exhaled through his nose. “It's taking them longer than it should....I shouldn't have let her go alone. Her knee's been bothering her too much; it might be draining her focus from her shield.”

    Maybe Sita's injured and can't run,” Crest added, feeling the knot tighten again. “She's been in prison for so long....maybe Kalinda has to carry her or something....”

    These words caused his brother to shoot him an abashed look. “I guess we both need to calm down; the best way to help the former queen is to keep our cool. We'll need to provide adequate cover in case...” Stonewall trailed off and glanced across the marketplace, not towards the direction where Kalinda and Sita were supposedly coming from, but another side.

    Following his gaze, Crest swore inwardly as a squad of white-armored stormtroopers – the new soldiers of the new Empire – appeared, looking suspiciously alert as they scanned the empty square. Even though it was early, the area should have been teeming with vendors and merchants, eager to sell their wares to a stream of customers anxious to buy, but there was only the muttering wind through the nearby buildings.

    A soft scuff of footfalls alerted Crest to the position of the fugitive Jedi and the former queen of Aruna as the two women made their way across the exposed square; it would have gone unnoticed, but for the flicker of fabric that appeared when Kalinda's Force-shield faded for an instant.

    Kriffing son of a...” Stonewall's curse was cut short as the stormtrooper in the lead indicated the square, and the others began to fan out around him, blasters trained on the empty space. “We've been compromised.” He looked at Crest, who was already lifting his bomb. “You toss, I'll direct.”

    Throat too tight to reply, the bald clone only nodded before he hurled the small device in the direction of the Imperials, watching with satisfaction as Stonewall lifted his hand and urged it forward, using the Force to propel the explosive farther than any Human could throw unaided. Crest took no small amount of satisfaction at the sight of nine stormies' helmets tilting in unison as they marked the progress of the object. I don't need the Force to tell me that they're stupefied. Doesn't take much, from what I understand. The flash-bomb landed in their midst and detonated with a satisfying ripple of sound and light – hence the name – causing the Imperials to scatter.

    But Crest was already tossing another, and another, and another, all of which Stonewall pushed towards the stormtroopers with a not-too-gentle brush of the Force; soon the entire squad was surrounded by bright explosions that left them disoriented and confused. Between the shouts of the soldiers, Crest made out the softer sound of footsteps closing in on his and Stonewall's position, and his heart suddenly felt like it was trying to barrel its way out of his ribcage.

    Sita?” His voice sounded thick in his ears. Beyond them, the stormies were starting to regroup with an efficiency that he recognized all-too-well.

    And then it was as if there was a ripple in the air before him as a cloak of energy fell to reveal the dark-haired Jedi Knight and the object of their rescue mission, the woman who had never really left Crest's mind in the almost two years that had passed since they'd seen one another.

    In his memory, she was soft and willowy as a flower or a blade of grass, her pure-white hair catching every color of the sun and providing a contrast to the ruddy tint of her skin, traits that all the people of Aruna shared. He saw her sky-blue eyes in his dreams, and had never forgotten the way that she smelled like jasmine. They had only shared a few kisses, what amounted to one sweet moment together during Shadow Squad's mission to her planet years ago, but the look on her face as she beamed up at him in the palace gardens of her home just before he reached for her was his happiest memory.

    The woman who clutched Kalinda's arm was not the same one he'd known.

    Blue eyes that had once been jubilant were now red-rimmed and swollen; purple bruises splotched her arms, someone had chopped off her long hair and replaced her favored silk dresses with a tattered tunic, and her features were wan and tight. Kalinda's arm was around her shoulder and part of Crest's mind noted that the Jedi also looked exhausted, as it was not easy for her to keep her Force-shield up so that they could avoid detection. But most of his attention was on the former queen of Aruna, the young woman who had spoken out so fearlessly against the new Empire and its leader, Palpatine, in the days and weeks following the formation of the new government and the end of the Clone Wars. Many late nights had been spent watching vids of her passionate speeches calling for a return to true democracy and the ways of the Republic, and he remembered thinking how beautiful she looked when there was that fire in her eyes.

    So it was perhaps the hardest thing that he'd ever done to look at her, to see what the Empire had done to this brave woman, and smile as if nothing was wrong while he said: “Sita? Fancy meeting you here!”

    *

    Getting into an Imperial-controlled prison isn't so bad, Kalinda mused as she and Sita, the deposed queen of Aruna, made their way across the deserted market square. It's leaving that's the tricky part. Despite the copious planning, their contacts within the caste of “untouchables” who knew everyone and everything that happened in the capitol city, and the fact that Kali was confident in her Force-shield, the rescue had not been easy.

    The entire journey to Rudral she had spent in meditation, gathering what strength she could in order to focus on the rescue mission. Since Stone could use the Force as well, fortifying her abilities with his own considerable focus, he'd been at her side, doing what he could to lend her his strength.

    Not that they hadn't taken a few opportunities to distract themselves from the dismal nature of the situation into which they were headed, but they were only Human, after all.

    Upon their arrival to Rudral, Kali had managed to sneak her way into the Imperial prison disguised as one of the untouchables – the lowest caste of Arunai – who cleaned the cells, and there was only a little bit of Force “coercion” necessary to get herself to Sita's location, a high-security area that was – thankfully – run by the stormtroopers, whose attentions were easily misdirected by a determined Jedi.

    In retrospect, Kali realized that she should have been prepared to see the young woman who looked at her behind Sita's eyes. Along with Crest, the Jedi had watched footage of the Arunai queen's protestations against the Empire, though she had winced each time, thinking: I admire her bravery, but fear that nothing good will come of it. Indeed, she hated to be proven right. Not two weeks ago the news had reached the HoloNet that Moff Abadi, the governor who'd been placed as the liaison between the Empire and Aruna, had uncovered a plot to overthrow Palpatine's rule, concocted by none other than the young queen herself.

    The sentence for such treason was death.

    In the months following the rise of the Empire, the members of Shadow Squad, along with some new additions, had been taking refuge aboard a Jedi praxeum ship run by Master Djinn Altis, collecting themselves and trying to figure out their next move. It had been enough for a little while, until Crest had come to Kali and Stonewall's room in the middle of the night, pounding on the door and emanating ripe fear. As soon as he'd given Kali the news about her dear friend and former queen, they had all begun planning the rescue mission.

    Which looked as if it would fail, as she was just not strong enough to keep her Force-shield going.

    Both women were injured; Sita, from weeks of mistreatment at the hands of the Imperials – Kali still had not gotten that whole story – and she herself from the repercussions of Order 66. At the memory, her throat tightened. Milo...you died protecting me. I can't ever repay you. She owed her life to the young member of her squad of clones who had given his life ensuring that she survived an attack from a pair of clone commandos they'd been in the process of rescuing. The injury that she'd sustained during the Order – a blaster shot to her already-injured left knee – was not yet fully healed, and her gait was weak and uneven.

    But Kalinda had two very important factors in her favor: determination and stealth, in the form of a shield of energy that she could create around herself with the Force.

    The Force-shield was a technique that she'd discovered in the Archives of the Jedi Temple on Coruscant, about a year prior to the start of Clone Wars. Transcribed from an unfamiliar language that had no translation save for a few, decades-old paragraphs, the technique had saved Kali's life on many occasions, and helped her compensate for both her injury and her lack of skill with a lightsaber.

    The method had been instrumental in Sita's rescue; after she'd unlocked her friend's panel, and answered a few hushed questions, Kali guided the younger woman out the way she'd come, this time using the Force to keep them both shielded from the eyes of the stormtroopers. Meanwhile, some of the untouchables created a diversion that would allow them to slip out unnoticed and make their way across the city to the marketplace, where she knew that Stonewall and a very anxious Crest were waiting.

    However, as they hurried as best they could, given their states, Kali found that it was draining her energy more than it should have, and she felt a flicker of worry when she realized that they might not make it to Stone and Crest's position before she lost her shield completely. As she'd been about to reach through the Force and tell Stone the bad news, she and Sita were greeted by a squad of stormtroopers who had decided to cut their rounds short. For all of their ineptitude, the Spaarti-cloned stormies were masters of knowing what to shoot at, so the women were nearly assaulted with a hail of blaster-fire that Kali couldn't have deflected even if she'd had her lightsaber.

    But Stonewall and Crest were each practically a one-man army; together she trusted them with her and Sita's lives, and they did not disappoint. Kali hardly noticed the flash-bombs as she urged the Arunai woman onward towards the men. “We're nearly there,” she whispered to her friend, who nodded, though her face was pinched with fear. “Hang on.”

    More booming sounds, more flashes of light. Meters to go; Kali felt her knee give out once, but she pushed on through the stumble until she was in Stonewall's arms and Sita was drawn into the shadows with Crest, who managed to crack a joke, even now when things were so dire. And right before they turned to flee towards Traxis, his companion and their waiting ship, Kali took a moment to look into Stone's honey-brown eyes and think – despite all of the things she had lost – how lucky she was to have married him.

    Not as lucky as me,” he replied, picking up on her thought even as he frowned at her knee. The next thing she knew, she was lifted off the ground as they made their way to freedom.

    *

    As was his custom in these types of situations, Traxis found that he was torn.

    Should I go with the DLT or the Firelance? The DLT is nice and large, but might be overkill given that our goal is to get the kriff out of here ASAP...but it's better for long-range situations like this.

    On the other hand, the Firelance is more fun to shoot.

    His fingers danced around the grips of each of the two rifles while he debated the merits of each. However, the sound of blaster-fire halted any further debate and his hand closed around the smaller Firelance as if on instinct. After re-checking the charge on the ammunition cartridge, Traxis glanced at the coral-skinned Twi'lek beside him; they were standing on the ramp of the Stark Raven, the transport that belonged to Shadow Squad's most recent ally. “Sounds like they're on their way.”

    The ship's prepped and we're ready to make our daring escape,” Ares said, speaking in the lilting accent that Trax had still not quite gotten used to. More shots rang out from the direction of the marketplace, and the Twi'lek frowned before reaching into his vest and removing a familiar-looking pistol, which he held at the ready.

    Traxis gave his companion a startled look. “That's Kalinda's old LL-30....when did you start carrying a blaster?”

    Ares' mouth quirked into a crooked smile. “She was kind enough to lend this to me. I find that lately, the company I keep often requires the necessity of being armed.”

    You didn't have to come, you know.” Of course, Traxis couldn't stop the words from sounding too harsh, but the Twi'lek only shrugged.

    I didn't say that I minded.”

    Traxis sighed, but couldn't keep the grin from his face as he stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the Twi'lek and they readied themselves to cover their allies. Not long, now, Traxis thought as he peered through the scope of the rifle. It wasn't his usual, military-issue DC-15, but that particular weapon had gone the way of his old armor; admittedly, it was often strange not to wear the white plastoid, but he found that he liked being able to sit down in a pair of civilian pants that had become the norm. Besides, it's kind of nice not to look the same as the others any more.

    There they are.” Ares' voice was calm and he nodded towards a section of buildings not far from the deserted temple where he'd landed the ship. Indeed, Trax could make out the figures of his brothers, Crest and Stonewall racing towards them. “Looks like we've got injured.” The clones were each carrying a female form, and Traxis remembered that Kalinda still had not fully healed from the nasty shot to the knee she'd taken during Order 66.

    And I guess the former queen didn't fare so well after being stuck in an Imperial prison cell for weeks and weeks. His teeth gritted as he recalled how broken up about the entire thing Crest had been, and how adamant his normally jovial brother had been to come to Sita's rescue. But beneath the sense of injustice, Trax found that he was pleased to have the choice of whom to fight, and for what reason; ultimately he had little problem with freeing the Empire of another innocent. “And there are the boys in white.”

    Without another word he raised his rifle and fired on the stormies, taking a moment to delight in the fierce kickback from the Firelance, indicative of its power, and trying not to notice how the clustered soldiers went down so easily. It was bizarre to be shooting at the white-armored figures instead of with them, but he told himself that beneath the buckets, these men were not his brothers.

    They are clones, but they're not like me or the others. I've heard that a lot of these guys are grown in a year and then pushed into the military with hardly any training. More like droids than any of us Fett-clones ever were, that's certain. Still, he winced as the nearest one collapsed to the ground and tried to swallow his own misgivings. We're free, now. They could be too...I've seen others who've defected. We all have the ability to choose, after all.

    Beside him, Ares continued to return fire until the group drew closer; at that point the Twi'lek turned and raced for the helm. Traxis covered his brothers from the fire of the stormies, allowing them to scramble up the ramp to safety. As he did so Traxis sifted through memories of fallen brothers: the brave men who had died in service to an entity that had as much regard for their sacrifice as one would have for an empty ammo container; a group of missing clone boys that had been left to whatever fate the mad Kaminoan who held them had cooked up; the utter waste of life and resources – on all sides – that was the basis for the new Empire.

    And in the core of all that he was, he knew that he was at last fighting the good fight.

    But it still hurt.

    *

    As the Stark Raven began to lift off from the deserted temple, Stonewall set Kalinda down upon a nearby crate and glanced at Crest, who was the same with the former queen. “Ready?”

    The bald clone wasn't looking at him, but he nodded and reached into an inner pocket of the bottle-green coat that he wore, removing a small device. Sita frowned at his hand and met his eyes; Crest gave her one of the easy smiles that he was known for. “You didn't think we were going to leave without wishing your captors goodbye, did you?” She blinked in surprise and he indicated the viewport. Everyone turned as he pushed one of the buttons on the device.

    Below them, while Ares maneuvered the Raven away from Rudral even as the stormtroopers continued to fire, a blossom of fire and smoke rippled up from across the market square, from the general area of the prison. The troopers, now tiny flecks of white on the ground, turned towards the explosion, forgetting the ship they'd been pursuing for the moment. Crest chuckled and nodded to Stonewall. “What did I tell you?”

    Good work,” the former captain replied. “I only wish we could properly thank the others.”

    Sita glanced between him and Crest, who was reaching for a nearby blanket to hand her, which she accepted with a duck of her head. “The others?”

    Beside her, Kali gave the younger woman a smile even though Stone could tell that she was in a great deal of pain from her knee. “The untouchables. We couldn't have rescued you if not for the members of that caste. Even now they're wreaking havoc in Rudral, so much so that the Imperials won't have a moment – or the means – to track us.”

    And even if they tried, our transponder codes won't be any help,” Traxis added as he slid into the co-pilot's seat beside Ares.

    The Arunai woman nodded once, and drew the blanket closer about her shoulders. When she spoke, her voice was very quiet. “Thank you. All of you.”

    Stonewall knew his wife well enough to see that she wanted to embrace her friend, but it was Crest who took the seat beside Sita and pulled out the med-kit; he gave the young woman another gentle smile before clearing his throat. “You have some nasty-looking scrapes, there. I could-”

    No,” Sita said abruptly, not meeting his eyes. “No, thank you. I just...” She seemed to stiffen and her gaze slid to Kalinda, who regarded her for a moment before speaking. Stone knew that they hadn't had a chance to discuss her imprisonment in detail, but during their escape Kali had taken a moment to divert energy from her shield and communicate to him that Sita had not been sexually assaulted, at least. Still, Stonewall figured that the Arunai woman's life beneath Imperial rule had left its share of scars on her spirit.

    I can help you with your injuries,” Kali said. From his place beside her, Crest's face fell a little, but he kept his silence.

    Your knee...” Stonewall said, giving Kali a frown. “You're in pain.”

    His wife met his eyes , but it was Sita who replied. “I can wait a few minutes, Kalinda. You saved my life, after all.” She did not look at Crest, who had risen to stand at the helm beside Traxis.

    Another moment passed before Kalinda began rolling up the left leg of her pants, her expression pained, before setting her hands atop the curve of her knee. As he'd learned from Master Djinn Altis, Stonewall knelt beside her and placed his own palms over her hands, meeting her eyes as he added his own Force-energy to hers. If someone had told him two years ago that he would be capable of such a thing, he would have laughed in their face. Now it's like second nature, though, he thought as he concentrated. I'm still not sure why I can use the Force, but right now it doesn't really matter. I'm just glad I can use it for something worthwhile.

    Does it feel any better?” he asked after a few minutes.

    Kali took a breath and nodded, looking at him with unabashed tenderness. “It does.” For a moment he felt something from her, a flicker of old pain mixed with fear and sharp grief, but it passed with her next breath. “You make everything better, Stone.”

    One of his hands lifted to cup her cheek while he kissed her; the other remained in place, warm and solid against her skin. “Always glad to help, Kali.”

    *****

    More notes!

    Spaarti clones: I couldn't find an exact timeline about when they came about, but from what I could tell they started seeing combat about two years into the wars, serving to supplement the decreasing numbers of the Fett clones we know and love. I imagine that once the wars ended and the Empire was formed, they would start seeing more action.

    Kali & Stone being married: If you missed the previous fic, “Bastion,” this was the very last thing to happen. I'll go into it a bit more in a later chapter. They did have a kind of “affirmation of love”ceremony in the story “Untouchable,” but it was not a wedding. I know...semantics. Bear with me if you can. :p

    The quote at the beginning of the story is from the song, “Hurricane Drunk” by Florence and the Machine, from the album Between Two Lungs. Many songs from this album managed to creep their way into Alchemy, actually. Definitely worth a listen.


    Thanks for reading! :)
     
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  4. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    "So it was perhaps the hardest thing that he'd ever done to look at her, to see what the Empire had done to this brave woman, and smile as if nothing was wrong while he said: “Sita? Fancy meeting you here!”"

    Oh, Crest. Don't change.
     
  5. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    @gracesonnet - He's a pretty stand-up guy beneath all those quips. ;) Thank you for the comment! [:D]


    *****
    Chapter Two: Persistence of Memory

    My parents said that I was 'precocious,' but I've never understood why, because I just liked to read and study, and for me that was enough. But sometimes I knew things that I shouldn't have, which made them suspect that I was Force-sensitive; though at six years of age I was probably too old to become a Jedi, there was a time when I dreamed of wielding a lightsaber and spending all of my time studying in the great Archives, gathering all of the knowledge I could. It wasn't long before I realized that I how desperately I wanted that life.

    As it turned out I was sensitive to the Force, but not enough to be a Jedi, or even join their Corps. “This isn't the place for her,” the Council told my parents, and I cried the entire way home.

    In the end, it was a childhood fantasy – at least, that's what I told myself as I grew older. It was easier, you see, to fall into other patterns and not think too hard about the life I could have had. For many years while I grew up, I was normal, and it was enough.

    *

    So engrossed had she been in her project, Zara had no clue where the Chu'unthor was besides somewhere in the Outer Rim. Seated alone in one of the meditation chambers, she was wholly engrossed with trying to put the pieces of her new life together.

    Every ounce of concentration was centered on the equipment before her: the power insulator and conductor that harnessed the wild energy that she hoped to work with; the chamber and activator that would bring said energy to life; the coil of wires that would direct the current to its final destination: a blue-white beam of plasma, a symbol of focus and strength, a tool as much as a way of life.

    A lightsaber.

    Her lightsaber.

    All of the components were hovering in the air in front of her while she built the Jedi weapon without laying a finger upon it. Sweat had begun to bead at Zara's forehead but she ignored it as she used the Force to direct the three small crystals to their new home within the cylinder that would be her new saber-hilt. Her own hands, a pale blue, trembled with the effort it was costing, but she was determined. This time, I'll do it. A droplet of perspiration trickled down her face, tracing the curve of a cheek that was too rounded for a Nautolan, but too severe for a Twi'lek. Still, she ignored her own body's discomfort as she channeled all of her concentration into the task at hand.

    The grip was the easy part; even the controls for the blade itself had cooperated. It was the delicate placement of the Adegan crystal within the heart of the weapon that was giving her trouble. Her hands started to shake harder with the effort as she focused on setting the primary crystal within its mount; the Padawan had spent a week meditating on the various crystals that Master Djinn Altis had aboard his praxeum ship, the Chu'unthor, in order to select the best one for her new lightsaber. There had not been many to choose from, but she knew that beggars couldn't be choosers.

    And anyone who wanted to construct a Jedi weapon during these times was most certainly – if not a beggar – than a wanted criminal. This thought made Zara's focus waver, just for a split-second, but it was enough. The crystal fell to her bare feet with a gentle thud against the blanket she'd laid out in anticipation of her failure, immediately followed by the rest of the saber's components.

    The Padawan's shoulders sank as she sighed. Her eyes, larger than a Twi'lek's but not quite as black as a Nautolan, fell upon the tiny blue crystal that had rolled to a stop in front of her big toe. “You didn't look like this much trouble when I chose you,” she muttered to the glistening stone as she picked it up between her index finger and thumb. “Shows how much I know, I guess.” She considered trying again, but she was too tired, as this was the third day in a row she'd attempted to construct a new saber.

    I don't remember it being this hard at the Temple on Coruscant, she thought as she collected the components to the saber and placed them in a padded bag crafted expressly for this purpose. But then again, it feels like such a long time ago that I made it. Her old saber was lost, a prisoner of the new Empire and she had no idea what had become of it after that night on Ambria, the night that the war, the Republic, and the Jedi Order all came to a screeching halt.

    With a sigh, Zara rose and exited the meditation chamber to make her way to the one place where she knew she could clear her mind and collect herself, no matter how somber her thoughts were. One of the advantages to living on such a massive ship is the swimming pool. Indeed, the Chu'unthor was magnificent, equipped with nearly every amenity that one could find at the Jedi Temple on Coruscant....well, before the dark times, anyway.

    Before the Empire.

    A few steps took her into a nearby turbolift and she lifted her comm. “Master Tallis?”

    Zara...how did it go today?” Her master's voice sounded dubious and Zara figured that she knew what was coming as she activated the button that would take her to the appropriate level. The lift began to slid downward.

    Maybe I should try again tomorrow.” She winced and waited for the reprimand that she felt was coming, but there was only silence for a moment.

    Finally, her master sighed. “Perhaps. You don't have to make a new one, you know. Master Altis has extras....”

    It was an offer that Zara had turned down repeatedly, despite the fact that her master and Kalinda had taken him up on it. I just feel like I need to do this myself. “Thank you, but I'm going to go for a swim, if that's okay. Unless you need some help with the wounded?” She tacked on the sentence at the last moment and tried not to sound as hopeful as she was.

    No. You should rest. I have everything under control here.” By here, Zara knew that she meant the infirmary, where there were many wounded to tend to. The war had taken a toll on so many, and Master Altis was determined to help where he could, and those who traveled with him were of the same mind. The Chu'unthor's infirmary was often full-to bursting with new victims of the war, rogue Jedi, clone, and any others who found their way to the Altisians.

    Are you sure?” I've gotten better at healing...or so I thought. Ever since they'd been on the Chu'unthor, Zara had been assisting Honi in the infirmary, and she was learning more and more each day. “I wanted to check on that Bothan female that I was helping...”

    There was a pause before Honi replied, her tone full of its customary brusqueness. “That won't be necessary, Zara. Go for a little swim now, and we'll spar later.”

    A little swim. She still thinks of me as a kid, even though I'm fourteen, now. I know I can help her more than I am, but she doesn't trust me. Zara tried to hide her disappointment at her master's words. “Okay. See you then.” The transmission ended just as the lift reached its destination, and the tips of Zara's multiple lekku twitched in anticipation of her swim as the clean scent of water reached her. However, she had one last call to make before she would allow herself to be immersed in one of her greatest joys. Her comm lifted and her fingertips entered another code.

    She chuckled when the clone boy's familiar voice answered, though it was hushed. “Did you do it?”

    No,” she replied with a sigh, trying not to think of Honi. “But I'll try again, tomorrow. I'm going for a swim now. Are you guys free?”

    Drake's reply was immediate and she could hear the grin in his words. “We'll see you there in five, Zar.”

    I'll be here.” When this transmission ended, Zara was still smiling.

    *

    Drake? Do you have a question?” Weave looked up from his datapad as the young clone approached him from the table where he'd been sitting with the other boys in the massive library of the Chu'unthor. Like the rest of the praxeum ship, the library consisted of a mixture of décor: soft couches and comfortable chairs for reading; wooden and durasteel desks for study, all lit by the faint glow of row upon row of datapads, holo-novels and flimsies. It was late afternoon on the ship's cycle, but the blackness of space beyond the transparisteel windows indicated nothing besides a wide stretch of stars.

    The young clone stood at parade-rest before Weave, head tilted. “It's Zara.”

    A glance behind him showed Weave that Drake's brothers seemed to be unaware of his words, but the medic knew better. “Is everything okay?” He set his 'pad down and met the boy's gaze. I think I know the answer, but just in case.

    Drake's feet shifted in a movement that Weave could only think of as child-like. Like all the clones, he had rapidly aged into adolescence, and he and his brothers had only become taller and more gangly in the months since their rescue by Shadow Squad. “She's done with her lightsaber stuff for today.”

    Did she...?” Weave sat up, but Drake shook his head. The adult clone nodded and leaned back in his chair. “Well, she'll get it eventually, I imagine.”

    She sounded a little down,” Drake replied, his tone carefully neutral. “Said she wanted to go for a swim to pick her spirits up...”

    In the months following the fall of the Republic, the younger clones and Zara had all become fast friends, but it didn't take much observation to see that this lad was smitten with the Padawan. It's so obvious that he has a crush on her, Weave thought as he regarded the boy. But it's more than just hormones, I think. Drake seems to genuinely care for Zara even though he tries to pretend otherwise around us...kind of reminds me of how Stonewall acted around Kalinda in the early days.

    Weave lifted a brow at the other lads, Finn, Keo and Risky, who had gone very still at Drake's words. “In that case, why don't you all take the afternoon off and join her? You've worked hard on your studies, today.” No sooner did the words leave his mouth than the boys were on their feet, collecting their datapads and flimsies to stow back on the shelves of the library before they hurried out of the room, uttering thanks to Weave as they rushed by him to the turbolift.

    Except Drake, who walked with an overly casual, purposeful stride that did nothing to hide his true anxiousness to reach the Padawan, and Levy, who remained at the desk, his eyes on the datapad before him. After shelving his flimsies, Drake leaned over his brother's chair. “Lev? You coming?”

    Levy shook his head, his hand indicating the 'pad; in the glow of the lamp on the desk, the lacework of wires that were affixed to his left arm gleamed. He lifted his hands in a gesture that Weave knew meant I'll see you later, and the other boy nodded once before slipping out of the room. Silently, Levy returned to his studies and the library was quiet once more. For a few minutes, Weave watched the boy over the rim of his own 'pad, wondering as he always did how he was going to help the lad with whom he shared a bond beyond the common blood of all of Jango Fett's clones.

    The Kaminoan cyberneticist, Creon Dai, had left his mark on each of them: Levy had the network of wires on his arm that allowed him to access any dataport, in addition to other things that no amount of research had been able to uncover; Weave had the ocular implant, a crescent of metal around his left eye that allowed him to see the world in a variety that included heat-signatures, infrared and ultraviolet spectra, and the very molecules of the air if he desired. It had its uses, to be sure, but it set him apart from his brothers and still made him self-conscious at times. Neither Weave nor Levy felt comfortable leaving the quiet sanctuary of the Chu'unthor as their brothers did. They were just too different.

    But the bond they shared made them stronger. Even now, Levy seemed to sense the elder clone's eyes on him, so he glanced up and regarded Weave with interest, his expression questioning as his eyes flicked to the door. Ah, I know that look, Weave thought as he nodded. “Time for another music lesson? You're getting better on the dulcimer.”

    Levy's face split into a huge grin as he slid off the chair and approached Weave, who rose as well. A certain series of eye movements was all it took for Weave to activate his implant in order to assess the boy's physical condition, which was normal, save for an elevated heartbeat that indicated his excitement over the music lessons. They made their way to the turbolift, as the instruments were kept in the quarters that the former squad-mates shared with their former Jedi general, and Weave ruffled Levy's hair affectionately as they rode. “Kalinda said when she and the others get back, she'd be happy to show you the viol, if you want.”

    Another broad grin coupled with a vigorous nod. Levy had not spoken since he'd met Weave – a by-product of the implantation of nanogene droids that he'd undergone at Creon's hands – but he was always able to make his thoughts clear enough even without the sign-language that he and Weave had developed and taught to the others.

    As Weave chuckled again, his comm chirped. “Master Altis?”

    Djinn Altis' voice was quiet and calm, albeit with an edge of concern that had grown common in the last few months. “You should come to the infirmary, my boy,” he said. “We have some new arrivals that may interest you.” There was a pause; Weave's brows knitted as he stared at the lift's control panel and waited. Beside him, Levy was still.

    The next voice they heard was not Altis, but rather Honi Tallis, Kalinda's former apprentice who'd become a common figure in the infirmary due to her considerable healing talents. “You need to hurry...they're unconscious now, but I-” Her voice wavered for one moment, which was so unlike her that Weave's brows lifted in surprise. “I need your help.”

    Certainly, Tallis,” he replied. Although “General” certainly didn't apply anymore, it was too odd for Weave to call her by her first name as the others did, though for what reason he couldn't have said. “Levy's with me...we'll be there soon.”

    She sounded relieved. “I'll probably have to contact Kalinda as well.” Another pause, though it felt deliberate. “Thank you.”

    The transmission ended and Weave and Levy exchanged glances. As Levy altered the turbolift's destination, he shot the elder clone a look that said, clear as any words: I have a bad feeling about this.

    *

    Honi ended the transmission and turned her gaze to the two clones who floated in the bacta tanks before her, trying to tamp down her agitation as she studied them. Despite the fact that their faces resembled countless other men – including those whom she now called “friends” – she had known these two immediately.

    After spending time within the corners of their thoughts, performing the mind trick that had saved herself, Zara and Kalinda the night of Order 66, Honi felt that she would recognize their consciousnesses anywhere. Everyone looks different through the lens of the Force, even men who share the same DNA. Her jaw tightened as she spoke to the Jedi Master who stood beside her. “This is not a good idea. If they found a way out here, others might follow.”

    I understand that.” Master Djinn Altis lifted his hand to his beard as he exchanged glances with with the Chu'unthor's lead healer, an Arunai woman named Upala. “But It's our job to help those in need, if we are able to do so. Now, perhaps more than ever. So I couldn't turn them away, even if I had known who they were.”

    The red-haired Jedi tried not to roll her eyes. Of course not. You take in every castoff, every miscreant who floats by. In the back of her mind she was aware that she was being too harsh, that if it weren't for this man's actions, Zara, Kalinda and herself would probably not be alive, but at the moment it was difficult to think well of the Jedi Master who allowed these two particular clones onto his ship. So she kept her mouth shut as she stared at them and wondered how in the stars they had found their way to this sector of the galaxy.

    I thought all of the commandos had joined the Empire, like the rest of the clone army. Why did these two defect? The last time I encountered them....she winced at the memory of that night on Ambria. The night that changed everything.

    Order 66. The end of the war and the death of so much, including her old life.

    Their wounds are severe, but they should make a full recovery,” Upala said in her soft voice. “Thanks to your skills, Honi.”

    It had been something of an inner struggle for Honi to reconcile her feelings on these clones with her natural inclination to heal the wounded, but in the end she had set her personal conflict aside to do her duty, as she had done many times. But now that the commandos were out of harm's way, the memory of the young clone Milo perishing as he tried to defend Kalinda was overwhelming.

    Remorse and bitterness clung to her memories of Milo, whose bravery she'd come to appreciate too late but whose sacrifice she thought of every day. A good, decent man is dead because of their actions, and I don't know if I can forgive them for that, though I know I should. Because they weren't helpful, she tried to push the negative feelings away to dwell on lighter subjects.

    At this, she failed.

    They took our lightsabers as well. That had been Kalinda's idea: in the aftermath of the order, when Milo had died and the three Jedi were left with nothing but questions and the bile of fear in the back of their throats, Kalinda had determined that the only way to survive was to use the Force on the commandos, to manipulate their minds and make them think they'd carried out the order to eliminate the Jedi “with lethal force.” Giving up their sabers was necessary for the ruse to work, and work it had.

    Until now, Honi thought with a frown. There can be no other reason for them to have found their way here but to seek either revenge or the fulfillment of their orders. That was why she wanted Weave to come and speak with them; she didn't want to show her face until she knew exactly why they had arrived. Just in case.

    She felt his presence before the door to the infirmary slid open; turning, she noted that Levy was with him, as he often was. Honi nodded to the elder clone, who returned the motion as he approached the bacta tanks with a wary step. Their glow bathed his face in pale blue and Honi moved to stand beside him while Upala checked the consoles affixed to the tanks' sides. Normally, the red-haired Jedi would have been fussing over the settings, but she was hard-pressed to maintain her normal levels of compassion for these men.

    After studying the readouts, Weave looked at her. “You know them, I take it?”

    Ferro and Archer.” She noted that his body stilled and his fists clenched. He knew the story. He knew the names.

    Honi watched as he looked back at the tank with new eyes. “Ah.” There was a pause before his brows knitted and he glanced from her to the nearest tank's readout. “According to this, they were in critical condition when they were brought on board, but you didn't use any meds...how did you treat them?”

    She blew out her breath in a long exhale as she gathered her thoughts, and when she spoke her voice took on the comfortable, even timbre brought about by recitation of facts. “They had only been treated with rudimentary hypos prior to their arrival here, but they were each in a great deal of pain; in order to sedate them properly without overloading their systems with drugs, I employed the use of morichro.”

    Out of the corner of her eye, Honi noticed Upala and Altis exchange glances at the term, but Weave only shook his head. “'Morichro?”

    Altis cleared his throat. “It's a Force technique often employed by healers: the slowing down of bodily functions – initially it was developed as a combat method.” He gave the red-haired Jedi a speculative look. “I didn't think that Yaddle had taught it to many.”

    I was one of the lucky ones. Morichro's applications are far more practical in healing than in combat, as I've been teaching Zara,” Honi replied with a wave of her hand as if to physically move the conversation along. “Anyway, I don't want to be here when they wake up,” she added, trying to keep the nervousness from her tone. “Nor do I want them to know that they're on the Chu'unthor. Their ship was picked up several parsecs from here. They were in this state, unconscious and injured, but their distress beacon wasn't activated.” She frowned. “Kalinda won't be pleased. There is nothing good about their presence here.”

    At this, Weave nodded again, his hand skimming over the top of his skull, the hair still shaved into twin strips. She'd noticed that all of the elder clones kept their hair short, as if they were still in the army, while the younger ones seemed content to let theirs grow out. When he spoke again, his voice was speculative. “Do we have their ship? Lev can tap into the onboard computers, if nothing else. Perhaps there'll be a clue there.” He nodded to Levy, who was staring up at the floating commandos with curiosity.

    It was a practical suggestion and Honi felt a flicker of irritation that she hadn't thought of it, but Altis answered. “We do...it was towed in and brought to the main hangar.”

    Weave glanced at the commandos' charts once more. “They should be in the bacta for at least a few ship's cycles, it seems. More than enough time for us to do a little investigation, eh Levy?” As he said the words he placed a hand on Levy's shoulder, the young clone turning to grin up at him.

    He still can't speak. I wish I could do something, Honi thought. The boy's arm was a mystery that she knew Weave had not been able to solve despite copious hours of research. I made a promise to him that I would somehow repay them for Milo's sacrifice, and I keep my word. I will find a way to help that boy. But now wasn't the time to say any of this, so she merely nodded to the adult clone, who looked at her with all of the compassion of a Jedi that made her feel a little ashamed at her earlier irritation. “Thank you,” she said again, hoping that the words didn't sound flippant.

    His broad shoulders lifted in a shrug as he began to escort Levy out of the room. “Sure thing, Tallis. Let me know what Kalinda says, please.”

    And they were gone.

    Honi turned to the commandos, watching as the bubbles lifted from their breathers and rippled to the surface of the tanks. I know now that all of the clones are not mindless machines...but that doesn't mean I'm happy to see these two. Even after all of the healing we've done, Kalinda might never be able to properly use her knee again, thanks to Ferro's actions. She felt her eyes prick at the memory of that night, but pushed her grief aside and studied the charts. After a moment, she narrowed her eyes and let out a sigh of exasperation that was directed towards Upala as the Arunai woman entered something on Archer's chart. “When was the last time that these tanks were calibrated? The metrics are off on this one.”

    In her fashion, the Arunai woman gave Honi a patient smile, for all that the Jedi could sense her resignation. However, she suddenly felt very tired, so she shook her head and nodded to the door. “It should be adequate, for now. Will you let me know when they awaken?”

    Upala nodded, but said nothing. Altis caught her eye. “Would you like to contact Kali?”

    I'm not sure if she's done with the rescue mission, but she should be made aware of this as soon as possible. I do hate being the bearer of bad news, though. Perhaps I'm in the wrong line of work. Despite the wry thought, Honi only gave a cool nod. “Thank you, Master.” Flicking her wrist opened the door and she strode out of the infirmary without looking back at the pleasant blue glow of the bacta tanks. Many people found the color soothing, and indeed, there were times where she shared the sentiment. But not now.

    Honi made her way to the bridge, the best place to route a long-range communication; outwardly, she was the picture of the perfect Jedi, calm, cool, impassive. Even with a pair of beige scrubs in place of her traditional robes, she exuded the proper, solemn image of an ideal Jedi. Outwardly, she was as still as the glassy surface of a pond, untouched by any ripples.

    But within, fear and uncertainty were burning a hole in her heart.
     
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  6. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    " As he said the words, he laid a warm hand on the clone's arm and gave him the crooked smile that made Traxis' heart beat a little faster. He put his own hand over Ares', and they sat in silence for a while longer, watching the stars."

    Awww!
     
    laloga likes this.
  7. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    Okay, so apparently I suck at numbers, because I added the wrong chapter last time! Everything should be fixed now. Sorry for any confusion!​
    *****​
    Chapter Three: Sanctuary

    They say that the only constant is change, and in my experience that's true enough.

    When I entered my twenties, things started to hurt. It felt like my body was aging faster than it should; my parents took me to the first doctor who gave us the diagnosis: Quannot's Syndrome. None of us believed him, so we went to another, and she told us the same thing. And again. And again. As it turned out, we could not hide from the reality of the illness that had found its way to me, inexplicably, and negating any chance of a normal life.

    And I was angry. For a time, I railed against the thing that all the doctors said: that Death would come for me swiftly, whether I liked it or not.

    *

    After Stonewall helped her deaden the pain in her knee, Kalinda had taken to cleaning and bandaging the worst of Sita's injuries with the medipac that Crest had provided. Kali could sense Sita's distress and agitation – no doubt remnants from her imprisonment – and had not missed the flinch that Sita had made when Crest tried to help her a few minutes ago. Once her friend's physical wounds were tended to, Kali leaned back against the ship's bulkhead, still grateful to have her weight off of her knee and sharing a warm look with Stonewall as he emerged from the 'fresher.

    From beneath the blanket that Crest had draped around her shoulders, Sita gave Kalinda a worried glance. “How did you manage this?” As she spoke, her hand lifted as if to include everything from the transport ship that was now slipping comfortably through hyperspace to the clones who were dressed in an assortment of civilian clothing.

    Before Kali could reply, Crest knelt before the former queen as he put away the remainder of the medical supplies that the Jedi had utilized. “We've been planning this for some time, Sita. I'm only sorry that it took so long.” His hand lifted as if to cover hers, but he checked himself at the way her entire body tensed.

    He's right,” Kali added. Stone's hand was on her knee again as he'd taken the seat beside her and she relaxed into his touch. “We had some contacts in the untouchable caste who were quite anxious to see you to safety.” Her voice grew quiet. “I'm sorry that we had to take you from your home so quickly.”

    At these words, Sita gave a slow nod as she clutched the blanket closer about her shoulders, but said nothing else.

    I think you should rest for now,” Kalinda said after a moment. “There's a cabin prepared for you, if you'd like to try and sleep.”

    After a moment of consideration, Sita nodded again and made to get to her feet. Shaking her head at Crest's offer of assistance, she turned to Kali. “Will you come with me?”

    Several moments later she and the Jedi were ensconced in one of the rooms at the edge of the common area. Stone brought them a few bottles of water, and before he left he spoke to Kalinda through the Force. Do you need anything else?

    From her place on a seat that had unfolded from the wall, she watched as Sita settled on the edge of the bed, silent and cowed. Nothing but time, I guess. Kali met Stone's eyes as he nodded once before stepping out of the room. After a few moments, Kali lifted her hand and used the Force to set one bottle before her friend and took the other for herself, but Sita didn't move.

    Finally, after several more minutes of silence, the former queen of Aruna looked at her. “How is it that you are alive? From what I could tell, the HoloNet indicated that you were killed on Ambria.” Even as she spoke, her eyes darted to the direction that Stonewall had gone. “Never mind. I think I can guess.”

    Memories of that night were still raw against her mind, so Kali only gave a sad smile and shook her head. “I wasn't with Stone when the order came out.”

    The order?”

    Most people don't know, do they? It was a long story, but she felt that Sita would be grateful for a distraction, so she launched into the tale of how she, Honi and Zara managed to survive when so many other Jedi were killed. At the mention of Milo's death, Sita closed her eyes.

    I know that you cared for all of them a great deal. I'm sorry, Kalinda. ”

    Me too.” To distract herself from the lingering grief that she felt whenever she thought of Milo, or the other Jedi who had not been as lucky as she, Kali took a sip of her water and tried to savor the cool trickle down her throat. “You're safe now, Sita. We have a refuge of a sort, where we're headed now.” She paused. “How are you?”

    The younger woman ran a hand through her hair, grimacing as her fingers reached the shortened end. “I'm alive. That's more than so many others can say. But...” She faltered and took a deep, shuddering breath to collect herself.

    Kalinda moved from her place to sit beside her friend. “If you don't want to talk about it now, you don't have to.”

    I told you that I wasn't...assaulted,” Sita replied with a shake of her head. “And for that I suppose I am fortunate. But the Moff was relentlessly in other ways...” She paused here and Kali picked up on a series of images through the Force, memories, thoughts and feelings of Sita's time in the Imperial prison that made her stomach turn.

    Sita...it's okay. You're among friends, now.” The Arunai woman's eyes closed even as tears began to slide down her cheeks and Kali could tell that speech had left her. So she put her arm around the former queen, wrapping her in a warm embrace and sending a tendril of soothing energy towards her. Sita wept in earnest now, her face buried in the crook of Kali's shoulder, and they remained so for what felt like a long time. Finally, Sita looked up at her friend and gave her an incongruous smile as she wiped away her tears.

    Confused, Kali tilted her head. “What is it?”

    You and your captain are still lovers?” The Arunai woman's voice had taken on some of its familiar lilt and even though her eyes were swollen and red-rimmed, they looked at Kali as if eager for a bit of idle chatter. A slow smile spread across Kalinda's face at this and she felt her cheeks flame even though she did not reply. But Sita gave her a knowing look that urged her friend for more information.

    Finally, Kalinda nodded. “Well, we're a bit more...official, now.” At Sita's raised brow her grin widened. “I'll have to re-introduce you to my husband.”

    Your husband....” The Arunai woman's eyes widened and her head shook in wonder. “I thought that Jedi were not allowed to wed?”

    A lot of things have changed, Sita,” Kali replied in a quiet voice. Choosing not to delve into the semantics of sects within the Jedi, she skipped over discussing her new alliance with the Atisians. “I'm still a Jedi, but the Jedi aren't exactly as they were because there are so few of us left. I know that the Order forbade such a thing, but my heart told me that marrying him was the right path to chose. Despite everything I've lost, I'm lucky in many ways.” It was a strange thing to think in the midst of such dark times, but in many ways her relationship with Stone buoyed her strength.

    Sita looked thoughtful for several moments, then lifted her chin in a regal manner. “Am I to assume that my invitation to your wedding was lost?”

    Well...we had a rather short engagement...as in a few minutes. The ceremony itself wasn't much longer, as Mandalorian weddings go.” She shrugged at Sita's incredulous look. “We're not a very traditional couple.”

    I can see that.” The Arunai woman took a breath and shook her head; Kali could still tell that she was stricken by the events of late, but that she was trying to draw on her regent's training and move on. “You mentioned a refuge? It is difficult to imagine such a thing, now.” By the tone of her voice, Kalinda could tell that Sita was thinking of some battered hole in the ground where she and her men had taken shelter.

    The reality was far, far from that, and she shook her head. “I think you'd be surprised.”

    The former queen gave a grave nod, and took another deep breath before looking back at the Jedi. “Thank you, Kalinda. For everything. I only hope that I can repay you, one day.”

    Kali shook her head. “There's no need. You owe us nothing.”

    But still....” The Arunai woman cast a look out the viewport, her gaze distant. “I will find some way to help you, if I can.”

    *

    She couldn't even look at me.

    Crest tried not to take it personally, but considering that he'd spent the last two years thinking about Sita, dreaming about their stolen moment and wishing for a chance to be in her presence once more, it was difficult. And now that they were together, it was a far cry from what he'd imagined. Not that I can blame her. She's clearly been through so much hardship. Seated beside Stonewall in the main hold, he idly toyed with the medipac that Kalinda had used to clean some of her wounds while his former captain disassembled and cleaned his weapon.

    I guess I just hoped – somewhere in the back of my mind – that she had thought about me maybe even a tiny bit as much as I'd thought about her.

    She's not the same woman, vod.” The other man's voice was quiet against the hum of the Stark Raven's hyperdrive and the lilt of conversation between Trax and Ares at the helm. Stonewall checked the casing on the muzzle of his blaster before he continued. “We talked about it before we even set off on this adventure, remember? She's been through a lot, and she'll need time to deal with everything and recover from her ordeal. You need to be patient.”

    I know.” The bald clone swallowed. “But...”

    One of the best things about his brothers was that words weren't always necessary between them, so Stonewall set down the rag and leaned forward to clasp his shoulder. “It's hard.”

    And then some.” Crest studied the medipac a moment more before standing to stow it in its place behind the co-pilot's chair. Traxis and Ares were discussing something in hushed voices even as they gave each other sideways glances, and despite the fact that he was happy for his brother, Crest felt a tiny flicker of jealousy at their relationship.

    Why did the Empire have to treat Sita so badly? Will she ever be the same woman? He glanced at the navacomputer and noted that they were about eighteen hours away from the Chu'unthor. Perhaps if she has a chance to rest and recuperate, she'll be able to be happy again. Maybe I can help, too. He could see her smile in his mind's eye as clearly as if she was before him, and he exhaled. I have to try, at least.

    As he was about to make a remark to Stonewall, the comm began to chirrup and Traxis frowned at the console. “Weave's modifications are working, anyway.” He was referring to the adjustments that their brother had made to the Stark Raven's communication system so that they could send and receive messages while in hyperspace. “It's from the Chu'unthor.”

    Stonewall looked up from his task at this, his brow furrowing, and Crest wondered if the former captain's Force-senses were tingling or something, as his expression indicated mild alarm when Traxis activated the transmission.

    The familiar image of Kalinda's old Padawan, Honi Tallis, appeared before them; standing with her hands clasped and her hair pinned neatly atop her head, she looked every bit the perfect Jedi. Or at least she would have had she been wearing the traditional robes and not a pair of scrubs from the infirmary. “Kalinda?”

    It's me, Honi,” Stonewall said, rising from his seat to stand by the comm. “Kali's with Sita at the moment. I can call her if you like, but they're both pretty exhausted from the rescue.”

    Crest leaned forward as Honi nodded, her expression worried. She never looks like that. Something must be really wrong.

    His scarred brother seemed to agree. “What's wrong? Are the lads okay? Weave?”

    They're all fine. We just have a bit of a....situation here.” Honi's voice was strange. “Would you please get Kalinda?”

    Rather than respond, Stonewall merely looked in the direction of the room where the two women were ensconced, a familiar, distant expression coming over his face. Talking to one another through the Force always has its advantages, I guess, Crest thought. Indeed, moments later Kalinda appeared at the doorway alone, her face anxious as she made her way to the helm. Crest glanced at the door from which she'd come but kept his feet in place, heeding his brother's advice about patience.

    Honi? What is it?” Kalinda was limping but it wasn't as bad as it had been; even so, she leaned against Stonewall as if for support while she stood before the holo-projector.

    The other Jedi swallowed and her hands would not hold still. “Master Altis picked up some more guests today,” she began. “Clone soldiers.”

    So? That's nothing new. Indeed, the Jedi Master seemed to attract all manner of injured or ill-luck folks to him, and already Shadow Squad had seen a few brothers pass through the Chu'unthor, though they didn't recognize any of them. A glance at Traxis told the bald clone that he felt the same way, but Stonewall's expression was impossible to read.

    More clones?” Kalinda's brow furrowed. “I take it by your call that we know these men?”

    There was a pause before Honi replied. “It's Ferro and Archer, Kalinda.”

    The dark-haired Jedi went very still, and Crest could see Stonewall's hand on her shoulder tighten as he spoke. “The commandos that killed Milo? The ones who shot Kali's knee? You're certain?”

    One doesn't forget a mind whose memories they alter, Stonewall.” Honi's voice was edged with fear, for all that Crest could tell she was trying to keep her words cool. “They were found wounded and unconscious aboard their ship; the severity of their injuries required that they immediately be put into bacta tanks, which is where they are now. Weave and Levy are investigating their ship to see if they can learn something about what they were doing out here.”

    Kalinda took a deep breath and nodded. “They've been unconscious the whole time? They haven't seen you?”

    No, and nor do I intend to show myself,” Honi replied with a frown. “I say the moment they're healed, we send them on their way. But I wanted to speak with you, first.”

    The ship was silent as everyone's attention was fixed on Kalinda, who looked speculative. From his place at her side, Stonewall leaned down and whispered in her ear, too quiet for anyone else to hear and Crest tried to ignore the pang of longing that he felt when he watched them. Eyes on her husband for a moment, Kalinda nodded before looking back at Honi's image. “Thank you for letting me know. What does Master Altis think about this?”

    At this, the red-haired Jedi shook her head. “I'm not sure. He seems content to let every stray vagabond he can come across aboard his ship.”

    Crest had to bite back a laugh at the Jedi's obvious irritation, or her seeming lack of recognition of the irony in her words. Good thing for us, I guess. Otherwise we'd be a bunch of 'vagabonds' ourselves.

    Keep them sedated for now,” Kalinda replied. “We'll deal with it when we return.” She paused, then smiled at Traxis, who had been giving her a questioning look. “While I have you here...we've all been wondering if Zara managed to build her saber?”

    At this, Crest did chuckle at the scarred clone's concern for the Padawan; during their rescue of Zara from Creon Dai, he'd formed a bond with the Nautolan girl, as well as the clone cadets. Who knew that prickly Traxis had a soft spot for kids?

    Not yet, but she's determined, I suppose.” Something in Honi's voice was off, but Crest wasn't sure exactly what, as the red-haired Jedi was often a mystery to him.

    Kalinda nodded again. “We'll be back very soon, Honi. May the Force be with you.”

    And you as well.” The other Jedi's image flickered once, then faded as the transmission ended.

    The moment that it was over, Stonewall looked down at his wife. “I don't like this one bit. How did they find the Chu'unthor? Did they come to finish the job?” His voice had taken on a low, dangerous tone and Crest found himself almost feeling sorry for the commandos if they would dare to try anything with Kalinda.

    Almost.

    I don't know, Stone. I don't get the sense that's what they intended. Beyond that, I can't say much.” The dark-haired woman shook her head and glanced up at her husband once more. “Are you tired? I'm beat.”

    Stonewall nodded, then indicated at the direction of the guest cabin. “Sita?”

    Asleep,” Kalinda replied with a yawn. “And I'm about to follow suit.” She looked at Ares. “Did everything go okay for you guys? I didn't even ask.”

    The Twi'lek nodded at her. “Swimmingly, as they say. Couldn't have planned a better rescue if we'd really tried.”

    The joviality in his tone made Crest chuckle inwardly. I do like that guy. Glad Trax hasn't run him off, yet.

    We really do appreciate that you let us use your ship,” she added as she turned to head for the cabin that she and Stonewall shared. “Ours wasn't quite up for the challenge.”

    Happy to be of service,” Ares replied, though he was looking at the scarred clone beside him, who was adjusting something on the navacomputer.

    Crest cleared his throat. “Is there anything I can do to help....?” He waved a hand in Sita's direction and Kalinda gave him a sad smile.

    At the moment? No, I don't think so. She needs rest and-” Her words were broken with another yawn and Stonewall shook his head, taking her hand and urging her towards their cabin. “Okay, Stone,” she said in mock exasperation. “I'm coming. Honestly, you're so pushy sometimes.”

    Now, why would that be?” His voice trailed off as the pair stepped over the threshold, leaving the ship in relative silence when the door slid shut.

    At the helm, Traxis looked up from the computer and asked Ares a question in a quiet voice, the Twi'lek replying in kind. Crest, who had taken a seat again on a crate, tried not to feel too lonely, but it wasn't easy. So after a few minutes of debate, he stood up and slipped into the guest cabin to check on Sita.

    After he received no answer to his quiet knocks on the door, he stepped inside the room with caution, announcing his presence as he did so, though it turned out not to matter.

    She was in a fetal position on the bed, the blanket he'd given her clutched around her shoulders and a frown on her face as she slept. There was a half-full bottle of water on the floor and in her sleep she was still as a statue. The room was a bit cool and he wondered if she was curled up so because she was cold, so he fetched another blanket and placed it over her, careful not to touch her, as he remembered how her earlier discomfort.

    The memory of her flinch made a thought occur to him, one that he'd tried not to consider before, but as Crest studied her bandages he wondered what exactly had been done to her in the Arunai prison. Stonewall had told him that she had not been raped, but the thought of anyone harming her at all made his jaw tighten. Despite his military training, Crest was not a man who thrived on bloodshed; he liked his violent acts performed from far away and relegated to property damage rather than actual loss of life.

    But I can't change what's happened, he realized after a moment. The only thing I can do is make sure that it never happens again.

    And I'll do everything in my power to see her smile once more.

    *

    Traxis was still learning his way around the controls of the Stark Raven, so he hardly noticed when his brother slipped out of the room, leaving Ares and himself alone. After he'd clarified the settings on the navacomputer, Trax fixed his gaze on the viewport beyond and watched the stars slide by for several minutes, until Ares looked at him.

    Do you want to try again?”

    A flash of agitation swept through the scarred clone at the thought, and he immediately shook his head. “I'm not really good enough, yet. Don't want to damage anything.”

    The Twi'lek chuckled. “Trust me, she's been through some, ah, intense moments. And the rest of the journey is easy enough. Here,” he stood up from his seat and indicated that Traxis should take the helm. “You can fly the Wayfarer. This isn't much different.”

    This is a lot more complicated than the Wayfarer,” Traxis replied, not moving from his seat. “Not now, okay?”

    Very well.” Ares took his chair again, and glanced at his companion. “Are you alright?”

    There was silence for a moment as Traxis considered the question, then he nodded slowly and met Ares' eyes. “Yeah, I guess. It's just...” He frowned, unsure how to express his thought to a non-brother. He felt like it took a while, but Ares was patient. Finally he shrugged. “Those stormies we shot today...they're not brothers like Stonewall or Crest, or Weave. They're probably not even Fett clones like the rest. But still. I didn't like killing them.” A sigh, then he leaned back in his chair. “The Empire has mucked up so much in the galaxy, and it's only been a matter of months. How much worse is it going to get?”

    Ares was quiet for a long moment, his eyes on the stretch of hyperspace before them. Finally he looked back at Trax. “Never ask that question.” Even as he said the words, he smiled, and Traxis couldn't help but return the look. Ares shook his head, his lekku swaying with the motion. “I don't know what to say about the clones, Trax. And I don't have an answer about the Empire, either. But I do know that even in the darkest times, it doesn't take much to light one's way.”


    As he said the words, he laid a warm hand on the clone's arm and gave him the crooked smile that made Traxis' heart beat a little faster. He put his own hand over Ares', and they sat in silence for a while longer, watching the stars.
     
  8. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    Okay, so I realized I'd skipped Chapter Two when adding these. :oops:It's all fixed now, though! Numbers are hard, apparently... [face_hypnotized] Sorry for any confusion!​
    @gracesonnet - I'll "awwww" right along with you! [face_love]

    *****​
    Chapter Four: Bent But Not Broken

    No doctor had a solution to my problem, no scientist could determine the cause of my malady, since so few others have been struck with Quannot's. They took many samples of my blood, bone and tissue to study so that they could try and find a cure for this ailment, but I had my doubts.

    One day, when I got home from the most recent test, I did something that I had never done: I meditated. I can't really say why, except perhaps some part of my brain hoped that the Force would lead me to a solution where none had been before. Of course, it was futile, for the Force doesn't rest on my shoulders as it does for others. So I was faced with an empty stretch of days before me; not many, mind you, but enough, and I have never cared for idleness.

    So I decided to meet my fate head-on.

    *

    As Weave and Levy entered the hangar, it was obvious which of the few ships aboard the Chu'unthor was the one on which the commandos had been found; though Levy couldn't speak, he let out a low whistle of approval as the two clones approached the sleek starfighter.

    I'm with you there, Lev. Haven't seen a Lancet-class in person before.” Weave took a moment to admire the agile-looking fighter before clambering aboard its wing to step inside the cockpit, Levy on his heels. There were two seats back-to-back, one for a pilot and another for a gunner, and Weave ran his eyes across the controls before activating them, watching as the systems sprang to life. Behind him, he could hear Levy in the gunner's seat; by the squeak of the chair and the click of duraplast, it sounded like he had grasped the controls of the weapons and was pretending to fire at an unseen target. “Levy...”

    A sigh, then the sound of the ship's computer being activated, and Weave knew that Levy was putting his implant to good use. “Thanks, adi'ka,” he said. “See what you can uncover while I poke around here.” With his own implant, he scanned the interior of the ship, searching for any clues as to why the commandos would have made their way to Altis' vessel. The ultraviolet spectrum allowed him to see several spots of clone blood – from their wounds, he supposed – as well as fingerprints along the transparisteel cover that fitted over his head.

    While he searched, his gaze fell on something that didn't quite fit. Odd, he thought as he made his implant zoom in on the spatter. That's not clone blood, but it is Human. He glanced behind him at Levy, who seemed to have finished his task and was again pretending that he was using the weapons system. “Learn anything interesting?”

    In response, Levy flipped a switch at the station before grabbing the gun controls and continuing to 'maneuver' them. Immediately, the sound of a male voice filled the area, but it was not a clone. “This is Lancet Nine, checking in. We've experienced a slight weapons malfunction, but we're okay. Touched down on Chigaru to make some repairs; there are some of those Imperial clone fellows here that we're going to ask for-” Immediately, the transmission ended, leaving only static in its wake. Weave felt a chill run through him as he glanced back at Levy, noting that the boy seemed wholly unconcerned with the message.

    It sounds like the commandos took the ship by force...if they did, that would mean they were desperate, which might indicate that they've defected from the Empire. Given his and his family's status as outlaws, it was not entirely an unpleasant train of thought, though it was all speculation because he had no proof. So Weave hoisted himself up out of the fighter, dropping the two or so meters to the ground with ease before lifting his comm to contact Tallis.

    Weave?” She sounded strained.

    He watched as Levy clambered into the cockpit, sat, and smiled as he regarded the controls. After telling her what he and his younger brother discovered, he paused. “It might not be the case, but it's looking like they're on the run from something.”

    The Empire?”

    Possibly. I'll want to talk to them before making any assumptions. Did you get a hold of Kalinda?” In the corner of his eye, Weave watched as Levy began to mime flying the ship, twisting in his seat as if involved in a tricky maneuver.

    The Jedi paused a moment before replying. “I did. The rescue went well, and they're on their way back...they should be here tomorrow evening.” Another, more lengthy pause, as if she was weighing her words. “I don't like this.”

    Me either, but we don't have all the facts, yet,” Weave said. A snapping noise came from the cockpit and he glared at the clone boy, who was examining a piece of equipment that he'd broken loose. “Time to come out of there, Lev.” The boy frowned, but began to climb out of the cockpit anyway while Weave turned back to his comm. “If you want, I can try to speak with them.”

    They're fine for now.” When she spoke again, the cadence of her words increased. “Are you busy? I'd like to examine Levy.” Weave glanced at the younger clone, who had stiffened at the word 'examine.' As if catching on, he heard Honi clear her throat. “I meant, of course, with regards to the nanogene droids...just a bit of Force use. Non-invasive, I assure you.”

    That sounds okay. At these words Levy appeared thoughtful, nodding after a moment, which was when Weave replied. “Sounds good. Should we meet you in the infirmary?”

    It's a bit crowded right now. I think the library would be better.”

    After signing off, Weave and his young brother made their way back to the Chu'unthor's library, meeting the red-haired Jedi at the entrance to the massive chamber that held the most comprehensive collection of information he'd ever encountered. It was quiet, as usual, and Weave considered the fact that most of Altis' students and followers were not aboard the ship at the moment. Sometimes it feels like the boys and I are the only ones that use this place. And Zara. He smiled at the memory of Honi's Padawan immersing herself in the stacks of holo-novels and assorted texts when she was supposed to be studying history or politics. Often he got the sense that she just liked being in the company of the former cadets – the feeling was mutual, he knew – and he understood the importance of forming strong bonds at their age.

    Honi gave him a polite nod and indicated a relatively private section of the chamber that held a long, wooden table and four chairs, stationed beside one of the wide transparisteel windows. “Levy, if you would please sit and rest your arm on the table,” she said to the boy, who nodded and did as she asked. The Jedi took the seat on his left side and angled her chair so that she was facing his arm; moments later, her face smoothed into a look of pure concentration. Weave sat across from them and decided to try and use his implant to see if he could discern what she was doing.

    Slender fingers rested centimeters above the lacy network of wires that covered Levy's right arm, Honi closed her eyes, her expression indicating that she was accessing the Force. The clone boy studied her hands, his brow furrowing, though he didn't seem to be in any discomfort.

    Weave watched her, transfixed. It always fascinated him to see Force-users in action, as he didn't quite understand how to quantify the strange energy that seemed to be so prevalent in the galaxy, for all that he couldn't detect or measure it. He had observed Kalinda use her shield, seen Stonewall wield a lightsaber with deadly speed, but none of it was quite as remarkable as when he witnessed the red-haired Jedi knit broken flesh and smooth away blistered tissue. In the months since the fall of the Republic, he'd come to respect her talents as a healer.

    Respect, he told himself as he watched her lips part in her concentration. That's all it is. That's all it can ever be. Her breathing hitched and he could see her skin flushing as her hands started to tremble; she was growing fatigued from her efforts. A glance at Levy showed him that the boy was aware of it as well, and an adjustment to his implant allowed Weave to see the increased rate of the Jedi's heart as she worked. So he said her name gently, as if attempting to wake someone from a deep sleep.

    After a moment her pale blue eyes opened and she blinked a few times, then looked at him. “Strange...”

    What is it?” Leaning forward, he exchanged glances with Levy.

    Before she replied, the Jedi held his gaze perhaps a moment too long, but he figured that she was still disoriented from her trance. Finally she looked back at Levy, who sat up in his chair. “I can sense the nanogene droids,” she explained with a frown. “It's almost like they're...alive.”

    They're not,” Weave replied, shaking his head. “But they share some traits with living beings: self-replication, adaptation...” He trailed off as Levy gave him the exasperated look that told him he was about to start rambling again.

    Honi took a breath. “I don't think I can remove the nanos without causing you permanent damage, Levy. But I think perhaps I can....” She frowned again, as if unsure how to continue. “Persuade them to 'let go.'”

    Weave and Levy exchanged glances before the younger clone made a series of hand gestures. What does that mean?

    I think they can be influenced to allow some of Creon's modifications to be undone,” she replied after a moment. “Morichro...the method I mentioned before, allows one to put a living thing in a kind of stasis...keeping it alive, but still, so to speak, to allow healing – or other kinds of manipulation – to occur. But since the nanos are not living, I may not be able to....this is somewhat out of my area of expertise.” She gave Weave an odd look that he couldn't interpret.

    But it was a small thing in light of what she was saying. “But you think this stasis thing is possible?”

    The practice of morichro itself is limited,” she replied. “However, I've done a similar thing in battlefield triage, when there are no anesthetics available. On a smaller scale, it's not an uncommon practice among Jedi Healers. Even Zara has been able to manage it, to a degree.”

    So if not you, then someone can help him?” His brain had leaped ahead of her words as he turned over the implications in his mind. Levy could be a normal kid...

    She was quiet for a moment before she gave a slow nod. While he tried to pull himself out of his train of thought, Weave tried not to notice how her hair was coming undone from the pins and was starting to fall around her face. “It will be me,” she said at last, giving him another, unreadable look. “I made a promise.”

    Having no real response to this, Weave simply nodded and smiled at his young brother, who was staring at his arm in wonder. We'll take what we can get.

    *

    As she floated on her back, Zara gazed at the stars through the transparisteel bubble that spread across the ceiling over the pool, which was situated in a wide room adjacent to the ship's gymnasium. Even though she knew that the floor was regular duracrete, it had been molded to look more like natural stones, which was a pleasant addition. A row of sensors were situated along the sides of the pool; should the ship's gravity be compromised, they would activate to produce a containment field over the surface so that the surrounding area wasn't flooded. The air was a little metallic, as she found the recycled air on all ships to be, but the pleasant smell of water overrode that other scent, and the sounds of her friends at play echoed through the water.

    The clone boys were engrossed in a type of hide-and-seek game that she had never heard of before she met them. Presently, Risky was standing on the steps, eyes closed, counting down from twenty while Finn, Keo and Drake separated to various areas of the pool, taking pains to keep their movements through the water silent.

    As soon as Risky had finished his count, he turned – eyes still closed – and seemed to listen very carefully for a moment before shouting. “Freia!”

    The others responded in unison. “Kallea!” At the word, Risky's head tilted and he began to make his way towards Keo's position, the other boy backing away slowly in his efforts to not disturb the water. As Risky reached his arms out, searching for his brother, Keo sank beneath the surface, pushed off of the wall and darted away.

    After he only grabbed empty air, Risky frowned and called out again. “Freia!”

    Kallea!” All the boys answered, but as Keo was surfacing he made a soft splashing sound, which Risky locked onto and dove for his brother. There was more splashing and a few choice Mando'a words that the boys had picked up from the older clones, then Risky was crowing in victory while Keo scowled.

    And the process began again.

    Zara had little interest in the game, as she felt that her Force-abilities would give her an unfair advantage; besides, it was nice to just be near them, listening and following the eddies of their happiness while they engaged in the game. So she floated on her back, tried not to make any sounds that might confuse whomever was “it,” and thought about her lightsaber. After several minutes, and quite a few shouts of “Freia, Kallea,” there came a distinct splashing sound followed by Drake's sigh of irritation as he moved towards the steps to begin the count.

    This made her look up; the other boys were giving Drake a wide berth, but she had an idea. When he turned and began calling out “Freia,” she added her own voice to the response, which made him start for a second, though he recovered almost immediately.

    You're welcome to play, Zar,” he said as he swam towards her, grinning despite his closed eyes. “Just remember that you can't use the Force.”

    The water lapped at her lekku as she glided away from him with ease. “How would you know?”

    His arms – still lanky with adolescence, though they were starting to fill out – reached for her but she was already meters away, sliding past Finn and Keo, who looked amused. “I can tell.”

    But how?” There was not so much as a bubble when she ducked underneath the water and came up about a meter behind him, quick enough to catch his reply but too quiet to give away her position.

    Drake's expression grew very solemn as he tapped the side of his temple. “Clone senses.” This made her giggle and he whirled around, surging through the water to grasp for her. His hand nearly brushed her arm, but she twisted her body and ducked to avoid him, creating more of a splash than she would have preferred. Grinning, Drake lifted his head again and swiveled it around as she came up again, about two meters to his right. “That was a bit sloppy, Zar. I almost had you.”

    Is that so?” She couldn't keep the teasing edge from her tone.

    The former cadet gave a bark of laughter as he lunged for her again; Zara twisted and avoided his grasp with one delicate motion. “It is. In fact-”

    Will you just say 'Freia,' already?” Risky sounded irritated and Zara glanced at him from her place about five meters from Drake; he and the other boys were clustered near the stairs, shooting odd looks towards them.

    Sorry, guys,” Drake said, lifting his hands. “It's not every day you can almost beat a Jedi.”

    Risky rolled his eyes and moved back into the deeper water. “Right....” He leveled a splash at Drake, who managed to look affronted even with his eyes shut. “Just get on with it, will you?”

    Something in his voice made Zara pause. None of them were even playing....it was just me and Drake. I didn't even notice. “It's okay. I should be going, anyway. Honi and I are going to spar in a little while.” She moved to the edge of the pool and lifted herself out.

    But Drake had opened his eyes at her words and was watching as she stood and selected a towel that was resting on a nearby bench. “Are you sure?”

    I'll see you later,” she said, ignoring his question and directing her words at all of the clone boys; Risky, Keo and Finn all gave her friendly waves while Drake looked a bit crestfallen.Zara nodded to him and slipped off to the locker rooms.

    *

    Kalinda had fallen asleep almost the instant she hit the bed, but Stonewall found that he wasn't quite as tired as she, so after some tossing and turning he rose and made his way to the 'fresher. For a moment he stood at the small sink and splashed his face with cool water; looking up, his gaze fell on his own reflection and he scowled at what he saw. Lines were already starting to appear around his eyes – faint but present – and they indicated the nature of his shortened existence. He'd seen some brothers who were only a little older than he was who already had gray in their hair, though thankfully he hadn't reached that point.

    Yet.

    Before the end of the war, he had stopped thinking too hard about what shape his life would take in regards to his and Kali's relationship. At the most, he knew that he had perhaps ten to fifteen more years left – assuming he survived that long – and that many of those years would be spent as a crippled, elderly man. It was the product of the clones' rapid aging: in their quest to bio-engineer the perfect Human soldiers, the Kaminoans had tweaked Jango Fett's DNA so that the clones would experience most of their vigor at a younger age, as it was assumed that none of them would live long enough to worry about growing old.

    Those that did...his mind cast back to Trig, a “bad batcher” that he'd met over a year ago on Kamino; he was called such because his aging process was even more accelerated than normal clones, but the experience had still been a chilling look into his and his brothers' future.

    Furthermore, Stonewall knew that Kalinda would definitely outlive him – the Jedi were more long-lived than non-Jedi for a number of reasons – and the thought pierced him with sorrow.

    In a way, it isn't fair that we should have found each other. We may be married, but we'll never have a normal life because I can't give her what she deserves.

    They were bitter thoughts that he tried to set aside as he flipped off the light, stepped out of the 'fresher, and made his way back to their bed to slide beside her. At the movement of the blanket, Kali gave a incoherent murmur and shifted closer to press herself to him. If he closed his eyes and inhaled he could smell her soap, and gradually Stone felt himself relaxing as he laid next to his wife.

    My wife. It was still an unusual notion that filled him with happiness despite his worries. Stonewall took a deep breath and tried to forget his own agitation as he held her, savoring the curve of her back against his chest. I can't change who I am. I can't do anything about my body's aging, especially now, so I should just be thankful of what I have while I have it. Lost in his own musings, he kissed her neck.

    Stone?” Her voice was blurry with sleep. “Are you okay?”

    I didn't mean to wake you,” he replied as she turned to face him.

    But her eyes missed nothing even when she gave him a smile, interrupted by a yawn as she embraced his neck. “Thank you for today. You and the others were amazing.” Her body was warm against his, and he found it a little easier to cast his doubts further aside when he held her.

    Glad to help.” They were quiet for a few minutes before he smoothed her hair away from her face. “Do you think that Sita will be okay?” He could still see his brother's stricken expression in his mind's eye.

    Kalinda seemed to consider the words for a moment before nodding slowly. “It will take time. She's been through so much – not just recently, but her entire life – I think she needs to find a place where she can collect herself.” She paused and then shook her head, a wry look coming over her face. “She was a bit put out that she wasn't invited to the wedding.”

    He thought of his brothers' shocked expressions when they'd learned and gave a grin of his own. “Tell her to join the club.” They were silent for a little while before he felt her leg shift up to rest along his outer thigh, and he reached down to smooth his fingertips across her skin. “How's your knee?”

    This made her forehead crease, though the expression passed after a moment. “Better, now. If I don't over exert anything, it doesn't feel too bad. But,it hasn't healed as it should, even after everything Honi has tried.” The words were quiet as she met his eyes. “Stone, I may never be able to use it properly.”

    It was his turn to frown and he moved his hand to reach for her left knee but she shifted it away from him, sliding her leg down his own. “Kali...”

    It's okay,” she replied, shaking her head. “I'm alive. That's what matters.” She smiled at him again. “And we have each other.”

    For now.” He couldn't help the bitter tinge to the words. She tilted her head but did not question him, trusting that he would elaborate. After a moment, he exhaled and drew her closer so that he was practically speaking into her hair. “For as long as I'm around, which may not be very long. And when I'm old and bent, what good will I be?”

    Kali pulled back and studied him, her expression unreadable even to one who knew her so well. When she spoke, her words were very deliberate. “I will love you no matter how you look, Stonewall. I will love you as long as you're around.”

    But how long will that be?”

    I don't know. But I do know that we need to enjoy the time that we do have...and it will be quite a few more years.”

    Her words echoed his own thoughts, but they brought him no comfort. He took another breath and met her concerned gaze, trying to quell his agitation. It's late, and maybe I'm more tired than I realized. There's nothing that either of us can do about it, anyway. So he gave her a smile and a kiss before he nodded. “That's true.”

    She looked at him a moment more before settling back down against his chest; after a few minutes he felt her breathing steady and slow as sleep came to her again.

    And then she spoke, one last time, the words soft but firm in the darkness. “I don't regret anything, Stonewall. There's not one minute of time spent with you that I would trade for anything else. And I'm thankful for every moment that we do have.” There was a gentle kiss on his chest, over his heart. “My husband...sometimes it sounds so strange, and other times it sounds normal. But it always feels right.”

    He couldn't help but smile. “My thoughts, exactly.”

    *

    They reached the Chu'unthor the next morning and Kalinda was reminded of their first arrival on the praxeum ship many months ago as she tried to handle about fifty things at once.

    She'd already called Honi to ensure that her fellow Jedi would meet them at the hangar; Master Altis, Zara, Weave and all of the boys were there as well, in addition to the lead healer, Upala. Sita stuck close to the dark-haired Jedi as they headed off of the ramp and made their way towards the group, and Kali could sense the other woman's apprehension at seeing all of the new faces. They'd discussed the clone boys, as well as the events that had brought Honi and Zara into the group, but Kali figured that it was still a bit overwhelming.

    However, as she was going to speak a soft word to her friend, the former queen of Aruna seemed to find some hidden source of strength within herself; she drew herself up straight, lifted her chin and managed to move with calm confidence.

    Good for her. All those years of regency have their use, I suppose.

    Behind them, Stonewall and Crest followed, while Ares and Traxis remained behind to tend to the ship; immediately upon seeing the scarred clone and the Twi'lek, Levy, Risky, Finn, and Keo hurried over towards them to help, as they enjoyed working with the Raven. Weave seemed to be quelling an urge to bow; in the end he nodded to the former queen.

    Altis gave her a kind smile and a bow in the Arunai fashion as Kali introduced them. “I'm so sorry to hear about recent events on your homeworld, my lady, but I am glad that you have found your way here.”

    Thank you for having me.” Despite her ragged and bruised appearance, Sita spoke in an elegant tone, and returned the bow in a fluid motion.

    It was then that Upala stepped forward. For a few moments the two Arunai women looked at one another and Kali realized that the elder of them was close to tears. But Sita merely smiled at her and ducked her head in a gesture that seemed to mean thank you, which was when the healer embraced her. They spoke to one another in the Arunai language for a few moments before Upala nodded towards the entrance to the ship proper; Sita nodded and turned to Kali.

    I know that you have much to do,” she murmured. “Will you come find me when you can spare a moment?”

    Glad to know that that her friend would have a fellow Arunai to speak with, Kalinda smiled at the former queen. “Of course. You're in good hands, Sita.” Behind her, she felt a flicker of longing from Crest, but he remained in place as the Arunai women exited the hangar. The moment that Sita was out of sight, the bald clone gave a quiet sigh but kept his mouth shut as Kalinda looked at her former apprentice. “Where are the commandos?”

    Honi lifted her hand and they began to walk. “We took them out of the bacta and placed them in one of the infirmary rooms last night. They're still unconscious, but they were healed enough to be moved.” The group began to make their way to the infirmary.

    While they walked, Kali felt a chill pass through her at the memory of the order, which was still fresh in her mind, and her left knee twinged as if it too could remember. She glanced back at Altis. “We'll need to speak with them in a little while, but I don't know if you should be in the room. The less they know about you, the better. I don't want to risk them finding out who you are, or what you're doing. This ship is too important to risk.”

    I don't know if their intent is to harm the Jedi,” Weave said as they walked. “We uncovered some information on their ship that indicated that they were fugitives from the Empire.” He told them of the recording that Levy had come across, as well as what he'd found, and Kalinda nodded again, lost in thought.

    However, Stonewall was not silent; when he spoke, his tone was respectful but firm. “They're not staying here. I don't even like that they were let aboard, even though I understand why you did so, Master Altis.”

    The Jedi Master's reply sounded thoughtful. “I may have a solution, of a sort.” The group had reached the infirmary and everyone turned to face him. “While you were on your rescue mission, I made contact with a fellow named Kal Skirata.”

    This made the clones straighten in surprise. “Skirata? The Mando?” Crest sounded nonplussed. “The ringleader of those Nulls?”

    The very same. He's amassed quite a collection of followers, from what I understand. Many of them are former Republic soldiers who have no wish to serve the Empire.”

    Honi and Zara exchanged glances and spoke simultaneously: one word, but it was weighed with confusion. “Nulls?”

    Stonewall nodded. “The first clones who were created from Jango Fett's genetics. The Kaminoans attempted to 'enhance' Fett's DNA in order to make them more powerful: better memories, higher intelligence, increased strength...that kind of thing.”

    But they were found to be 'unmanageable,' by the Kaminoans,” Weave added in a dark voice. “They were nearly reconditioned, but Skirata prevented it. The rumor is that they're only loyal to him.”

    Crest let out a whistle. “And that they're crazy. Don't forget the crazy part.”

    In any case,” Stonewall went on. “He's said to be fiercely protective of his 'sons,' and all clones to an extent. I think that sending these commandos to him would be a good move.” He did not add 'anything to get them off of this ship,'but Kali heard the implication in his words.

    Honi said nothing, but Kali could feel her unease, as well as her Padawan's. I'm not too thrilled to see them again, myself, but I suppose it must be done.

    As if echoing her sentiment, Stonewall cleared his throat. “I still want to talk to them first, Kali. They don't know that I can use the Force, and I'll be able to get an idea of what they're about...most clones are more willing to trust brothers.” In his fashion, his tone was even but she perceived a flare of unease from him at the notion of such a deception, no matter how necessary it may have been.

    Extending her senses to the other clones, Kali realized that they all felt much the same way. Shattered trust between brothers – another casualty of the Empire.

    I can help,” Crest added in an earnest voice. “You know, offer some backup. But Stonewall's right; they might feel more at ease speaking with other clones.” The group had reached the infirmary and stood outside for several minutes while they discussed the issue.

    Weave nodded. “I think that's best, Kalinda. Especially considering the fact that we don't really know why they fled the Empire in the first place.”

    As they spoke, she cast her mind back to the night of Order 66, and her memories of the clone commandos who had reminded her of the members of her own squad, albeit much younger. “That makes sense, but I would like to at least listen in to the conversation.”

    At this, Honi brightened. “The room that they're in is also used for observation...we can watch from the next one.”

    Like an interrogation room?” Kali asked, shooting Altis a sideways look.

    Despite the fact that she knew he must be concerned about his ship, the Jedi Master gave her one of his wry smiles. “We're prepared for most contingencies.”

    Kalinda sighed and looked at Stonewall, who held her gaze. Finally, she nodded. “Okay. You guys go in first and try to figure out what's going on with them. But please be careful.”

    He nodded and – unexpectedly – gave her an easy grin. “Careful's my middle name.”

    Crest let out a sigh. “That sounds like something I should say.”

    *


    Fun fact: Freia Kallea is the name of the scout who formed the Hydian Way, the hyper-lane that spanned the galaxy as it joined the northern and southern quadrants. I needed a pool-game and immediately thought of “Marco Polo;” her name gives it (I hope) an appropriately Star Wars-y feel.
     
  9. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    I love the Freia/Kallea bit! (I mean, I loved the whole thing but that was an especially nice touch).
     
    laloga likes this.
  10. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    @gracesonnet - Yay! I'm proud of that bit, actually. :cool: Thank you for the comment! [face_dancing]

    *****​

    Chapter Five: The Difficult Kind


    I'm not proud of how I acted during that time of my life, but I refused to hide from it. After all, everything that we experience eventually leads us to where we are, and the thought has occurred to me that if I didn't run as wild as I did, I might not have found my way to Altis.

    But back then....I was beyond reckless. The gift of hindsight makes me wonder if I was trying to kill myself, but going about it in the worst way possible. With what money I could scrape together, I spent some months on Coruscant, living what I thought was a glamorous life while trying to ignore the countdown to my own death. I remember thinking that if I was going to die, then I was going to die after having lived. Of course, back then, living was altering my mind with all manner of substances and spending my time with many inappropriate people. Let's leave it at that.

    I remember one night – or morning – I was stumbling back to my apartment after many hours of festivities, and I got lost. It was stupid to walk in this part of town alone, but I placed no value on my life so what did it matter? There was an alley: grimy. My foot hit something metallic and it bounced off of the wall, echoed in my eardrums. Then I looked up to see a man: tall, dark and menacing, with a long cloak about his shoulders, watching me with interest. Of course my heart sped up and I felt instinctively afraid, so I backed away. But he bore down on me, grabbed my wrist.

    As he stared at me, I got the sense that he was peering into my very soul, and I was frozen in place by his dark-eyed gaze. Then he shook his head and spoke in a somber voice. “You're an idiot, you know, if you throw your life away like this.”

    *

    With his feeble attempt at a joke, Stonewall had tried to conceal from Kalinda how concerned he really was about the entire situation; however, she did not appear to believe him, and kept silent. Once Altis departed, the group made their way through the infirmary to the room where the commandos had been placed. Presently, both clones were asleep in infirmary beds. The room was small and softly lit, with a few chairs placed along the wall, one of which Stonewall took a seat in, Crest following suit.

    They look so young, he thought as he watched Weave place a hypospray against each man's neck to rouse him. I can't remember if Kali told me that or not. He tried to reach out to them through the Force to get a sense of their minds, but all he could make out was a confused jumble of dreams.

    Should take a few minutes to kick in.” After he had finished, Weave took a seat beside Crest and they waited. Sure enough, the commandos began to come out of their state; the man on the left woke first, blinking hard and squinting as he looked around the room. When his gaze landed on Stonewall and his brothers, the younger clone's entire body grew still. The other commando awoke soon afterward, and the two groups regarded one another for a few minutes.

    Finally the clone on the left sat up, his expression indicating nothing so much as confusion. “Where are we?”

    You're safe,” Stonewall replied, working to keep his tone even. “What's your name?” He could sense the other man's debate over the simple question, particularly when the two clones glanced at one another. They're so young, and frightened as well. They're also confused and...angry? But it's not a direct feeling of anger...it's fractured and sort of focused inward. It was essential to rely on his military training to ensure that his expression belied none of his observations to these men, who would be able to read a fellow clone's face easier than a child's holo-novel.

    Finally the first commando answered, pressing a hand to his chest. “I'm Ferro.” He thumbed his companion, the casual gesture intended to convey a sense of calm, but Stonewall could feel the younger clone's agitation. “That's Archer.”

    Nice to meet you,” Crest replied.

    Ferro frowned. “Your names?”

    Our names were on the list of 'Known Jedi Collaborators.' You won't be getting them anytime soon, lad. Stonewall shook his head. “Our names aren't important right now. We would like to know the last thing that you remember.”

    And we want to know who you are,” Archer replied, lifting his chin with a bravado that the Force belied. “It's a simple request-”

    Ferro glanced at his brother and spoke a terse bit of Mando'a. “Watch your tone. We're not here to start a fight.” The two of them shared a look before Ferro turned back to Stonewall and spoke in Basic. “I apologize for my brother. We've had a...difficult time of it, lately.”

    No problem,” Crest replied – also in Mando'a – an easy smile on his face, though Ferro and Archer seemed somewhat abashed at his next words. “You're not the only ones, from what I understand.”

    Stonewall leaned forward and kept his expression hard. “What's the last thing that you remember?”

    Rather than answer, Ferro shook his head; when he did speak, his voice held a faint, pleading edge. “That doesn't matter. We must find someone...” He frowned and the two clones exchanged glances again before he continued. “A Jedi.”

    The Jedi are dead,” Weave said in a quiet voice. “And those that aren't are wanted criminals. I don't think you'll be able to find one that easily, now.”

    Ferro's head shook again, and Stone noted that the agitation he was exuding seemed to increase exponentially as he prepared his next words. “We're looking for a certain Jedi, one who's not dead.” He took a breath and met Stonewall's eyes. “Kalinda Halcyon.”

    Even though Stonewall was not surprised by the other man's words, they sent a thrill of unease through him. However, he continued to keep his face still even as he felt Kali's mind brush his own. I suppose the mind-trick wore off quickly.

    In his light-but-firm fashion, Crest replied. “Nobody here but us nunas, adiik. What makes you think that this Jedi is alive?”

    Because we were the ones who supposedly killed her,” Archer said, his brow furrowed. “But we didn't.”

    We thought we did, for a while,” Ferro added, his eyes shifting to Stonewall. “But then....things started coming back. It was as if our memories had been shut away, somehow.” Following a weighted pause, he met each other older clones' eyes in turn. “Like a Jedi mind-trick.”

    Taking a deep breath, Stonewall pretended to look thoughtful. “What do you think happened?”
    Again, the two younger clones exchanged glances, before Archer shook his head and surveyed the room with an air of insouciance. “Nice place. Is this the Jedi praxeum ship?”

    These words set off a warning in Stonewall's mind, but he tried to ignore it for the moment; he did not answer the question, instead he repeated his earlier one. “What do you think happened to you?”

    Before he answered, Ferro seemed to consider something, until finally he took a deep breath and shot a glance at Archer before he spoke. “We only heard a few rumors about a mobile Jedi school,” he said at last, his eyes fixed on Stonewall. “Intel last reported that it was in the Rim, so after we...left, we spent the last few months searching the area until we were able to establish its general location. Please understand that we have no desire to harm anyone on board.”

    Archer nodded, but said nothing. Stonewall resisted the urge to look towards the window where Kali was as he spoke to her through the Force. Are you hearing this?

    Stone...they're so frightened. She sounded upset and he sighed inwardly.

    I know. But they had the ability to find this place...which means that at least two clones in the Empire now know where we are.

    Her reply was cautious. I know it's bad, Stone. But I think I should come in there.

    Not yet. Just give us a few more minutes, please. His hands tightened on the arms of the chair, and he noted with dismay that Ferro seemed to catch the subtle movement.

    So Stonewall stood up, the action causing the younger clones to start as they followed his steps; he moved to Ferro's bedside and looked down at the commando, recalling Kali's retelling of the night of Order 66, and thinking that this was the man who killed his brother and potentially crippled his wife. However, after a moment he realized that beneath a veneer of control, the younger man was beyond terrified; Ferro was stricken with a wild, throbbing fear that could not be masked, and he understood the reason behind Kali's sympathetic feelings. I suppose I have a bit to learn about compassion. It wasn't exactly in the lesson-plan on Kamino.

    In light of all these thoughts, the former captain exhaled and gave Ferro a nod before he spoke, ensuring that he held the younger man's gaze. “Why are you looking for her?”

    The commando did not reply for a long moment, until finally his shoulders lifted in a shrug as he winced. “We just want to know for certain if we're crazy.”

    From his chair, Crest nearly snorted with laughter, but managed to contain the noise while Weave looked thoughtful but said nothing. Stonewall nodded again. “Because you think she did a mind-trick on you?”

    We know she did,” Archer broke in. “We woke up on Ambria to a huge explosion that we didn't remember setting off, then we noticed that we had these lightsabers...”

    Ferro nodded as well and sat up in the bed as he laced and unlaced his fingers together. “We each had a memory of killing the Jedi, but it wasn't right.

    What do you mean?” Weave's voice was gentle.

    Archer shook his head. “I've killed many times. As I'm sure you all have as well...it's not an experience you can forget.”

    The memories we had felt wrong,” Ferro added, looking up at Stonewall and frowning. “I can't explain it any better than that. But we had evidence...the lightsabers and the explosion...so we decided to just let it go, for the time being.”

    Until your memories came back?” Stonewall asked.

    Both younger clones nodded, but said nothing. There was silence in the room for a few minutes before Ferro spoke again. “She's here, isn't she?” His gaze on Stonewall was earnest, even as the former captain took a breath to deny the fact. “I can tell by the way you're acting. It's like...” he trailed off and his eyes widened. “You're that captain, aren't you? The one she's....”

    Where do you get your intel, son?” Crest broke in with a shake of his head.

    But Stonewall remembered Kali's account of the commandos all-too-well and he felt a slice of fear at the words. She had told him that they had known about her former relationship with Obi-Wan, and about her current relationship with him. I'd always thought that all those things were being spread as just idle gossip, she had said. But they knew everything. It was chilling. Again, he schooled himself to show no reaction to the thoughts that threatened his visage of calm.

    As if sensing all of this, Ferro's eyes had not left him. “Please...I just need to know if I've lost my mind. I just want to talk to her.”

    Reaching through the Force, Stonewall again examined the commando's intent, and realized after a few moments that it was true, that the younger man was being honest. The idea of not being able to trust his own mind was unsettling, and he felt another flare of sympathy for the fellow, despite what he had done to Milo and Kali. So he called his wife through the Force. Did you hear that? What do you think?

    Her reply was immediate. I'm on my way.

    *
    Crest didn't need the Force to tell him that these two clones were frightened and confused, and a part of him felt sorry for them despite the fact that they were the men who killed Milo. And while he was not a fellow who thirsted for retribution, the thought of his younger brother's death was enough to lessen his sympathy for the commandos.

    But it wasn't his place to judge them, and for that he was grateful.

    A glance at Stonewall showed him that his brother was communicating with Kalinda through the Force; moments later, the dark-haired woman slipped into the room, looking around with caution. This should be interesting. At the very least, it's taking my mind off of Sita. The thought of the Arunai woman made him wince, so he tried to push it aside.

    The moment the Jedi entered, both commandos sat up and grew very still, and for several long minutes, they stared at her while she approached their beds, and as she stood between them and met their eyes in turn. Finally Ferro spoke, his voice a whisper. “It's true, then. You are alive.”

    We're not crazy.” Archer sounded relieved more than anything else.

    Kalinda took a breath; a glance at the former captain told Crest that he wanted to move to her side, but he held his place beside Ferro. When she spoke, her voice was quiet. “No. You're not.”

    I might beg to differ. In case either of them decided to get silly and try anything, Crest rose to stand by Archer's side. Following his lead, Weave stood as well and moved to Ferro's bedside, which allowed Stonewall to stand next to his wife, between the beds. The message was clear: we've got you flanked and outnumbered, so you'd better behave yourselves. From the tense set of their shoulders, Crest could see that the commandos understood, even though they kept their eyes on the Jedi.

    I wish that we didn't have to alter your memories,” Kalinda said as she returned Ferro's gaze. “But...”

    You did what you had to do,” he replied, shaking his head. “You tried to talk to me first. I remember...”

    She nodded and looked thoughtful. “Why have you left the Empire?”

    The commandos exchanged glances and Ferro shrugged, the movement clearly an attempt at being nonchalant, even though Crest could tell see the tremble in his hands. “Something about having reality thrown into question makes it hard for a man to do his job.”

    Archer's tone was grim. “At first it was easy to ignore, but then we started getting too curious. We wanted to rewrite reports, see the lightsabers again...so they decided that we must be defective.”

    They ordered our termination,” Ferro added in a quiet voice.

    The Jedi tensed at this, and Crest knew that the commando's words had hit their mark. I'd love to trust these two, especially if the Force-users in the room are inclined to, but I just can't bring myself to manage it. He crossed his arms and tried to look neutral; across from him, he could see that Weave had been affected as well. Well, can't blame him, seeing as he was almost reconditioned as a lad.

    Kalinda nodded and smoothed her hair away from her face before she spoke again. “What will you do, now that you know you're not crazy?” She kept her tone calm, but Crest could see that Stonewall was tense beside her, as if waiting to spring to her defense should things come to that point.

    Again, the commandos exchanged looks before Ferro shook his head. “Hadn't really thought about it, ma'am. Honestly, we didn't think we'd get lucky enough to find you.” No one missed the respectful way that he spoke to the Jedi, but no one commented either.

    Do you know of Kal Skirata?” Kalinda asked. At the commandos' expressions of surprise, she smiled. “He's taking in clones who have no other place to go...if you like, we can send you his way.”

    Why?” As Archer spoke, his face darkened. “We shot you. We killed your man and would have killed you. Why would you help us?”

    The room grew still after his words and Crest realized that he was holding his breath while he waited for her answer, which came a few moments later. “What's done is done. I mourn my brother every day, but I can't change the past, and neither can you. You each have taken a step forward....now's your chance to make your life something other than what you thought it would be.”

    We have a choice,” Ferro added, giving her a tentative smile. “I remember what you said to me.”

    I'm glad.” Even though she didn't return his smile, the dark-haired woman nodded. There were a few moments of quiet before she spoke again. “You're both healed enough to leave, and I think your ship is space-worthy, but...”

    Ferro had sat up at her words. “We don't care about the Jedi anymore, ma'am. We just want to live our lives as best we can.”

    We won't share the location of this ship,” Archer added.

    It was Stonewall's turn to smile, though the expression held no warmth. “You've got that right. First thing tomorrow, you lads are getting a ride out of here; you'll get dropped off with your ship at a nearby system, and from there you can journey to Skirata.”

    Crest nodded to himself. Smart move. I still don't trust these two fellows. Stang, that Force-talking thing is handy...He supposed that Stonewall and Kalinda had been speaking to one another while the other clones talked, and again felt a flare of longing as an image of Sita sprang to his mind. Could we ever develop that kind of partnership?

    The commandos exchanged glances then nodded. “Okay,” Ferro replied. As Kalinda turned to leave, he made a noise as if he were going to speak again, but checked himself. However, she stopped and studied him, brow raised, and he sighed. “Thank you.” He swallowed as she held his gaze but said nothing.

    Finally Kalinda nodded, a faint but sad smile on her mouth. “You're welcome.” She did not look at them again as she slipped out of the room.

    Crossing his arms in front of his chest, Crest tilted his head as he regarded the commandos, who both looked a little ashamed. “Welcome to the 'outside,' vode.

    *
    From her place beside her former master, Honi gritted her teeth as she listened to the commandos' words; they seemed to determine that Stonewall was hiding the fact that Kalinda was nearby. They're perceptive, that's for sure. Just our luck. She glanced at the dark-haired woman beside her. “It looks like your secret's out.”

    I suppose.” Kalinda nodded, her face expressionless, though her voice held a familiar tone.

    It took everything Honi had not to give a sigh of exasperation. “You feel sorry for them, don't you?”

    Her former teacher's eyes met her own. “You don't?”

    They murdered Milo, and tried to murder you.” Honi glanced at Zara beside her, as the Padawan watched the commandos. “They would have done so to us, as well.”

    I know.” Despite the crease in her forehead, Kalinda still looked calm. Honi did sigh then, though she resisted the urge to pinch the bridge of her nose. Suddenly, Kalinda turned her head and looked at Stonewall through the one-way glass, and Honi got the sense that they were communicating with the Force. She felt a flicker of envy for a moment, as she and Kalinda had only been able to do so a long time ago, and even then it had only lasted a little while, but it seemed to come so easily to her and the former captain.

    No. Her husband. The words still sounded strange in Honi's mind as she watched Kalinda nod to herself before stepping to the door. “What are you going to do?”

    I'm going to talk to them.” With that she slipped out of the room.

    Zara watched Kalinda enter the next room and glanced at her master. “They look different now, don't they? They don't seem nearly as intimidating.” At her side, Drake scowled at the commandos, oblivious to the tenor of his own thoughts, and Honi tried not to glare at him.

    Kalinda may have made a particular choice, but that doesn't mean that my fourteen year-old Padawan is ready for such a decision. Times are different now, but that doesn't mean that she should entertain the notion of romance with a teenage boy – particularly one who will mature twice as fast as she will. She did not miss the way that Drake's eyes slid to her apprentice whenever he was in her presence, which was often.

    The only consolation was that Zara seemed either oblivious or not interested, which was a small mercy. Though for how long that will last I don't know.

    I think they truly do regret what they did,” Zara remarked in a quiet voice a few minutes after Kalinda entered the commandos' room. She glanced at Drake, who met her eyes. “They seem...ashamed. Don't they?”

    At her words, his face had darkened. “They should be.”

    For once, Honi agreed with him.

    When Kalinda returned, she seemed a bit shaken; she met Honi's eyes and they shared a look before the dark-haired woman nodded to the room behind her. “They should be okay for now. But we need to talk. All of us.”

    About what?”

    Kalinda's arms hugged her torso and worry emanated from her, though it was not centered on the commandos. She met Honi's eyes again and the younger woman was struck by her former master's gaze. “I don't think we're safe here, any more.”

    The Nautolan girl shook her head. “What do you mean? They were unconscious when they were brought on board. There's no way they could know the location of the ship.”

    But Kali didn't answer; she simply shook her head and indicated that they should all leave the room, Weave and the other clones following. Soon enough the group had reconvened just outside the infirmary door. Kalinda took a breath and looked at them one by one. “I think it's time we found another place to stay.”

    Stonewall nodded. “I agree. I don't like how they managed to find their way here, or how they seemed to know about the existence of this ship in the first place.”

    So you just want to leave Master Altis to his fate?” Honi asked, furrowing her brow. He's not my favorite person, but he's a fellow Jedi, and has done good work.

    No, Honi,” Kalinda said with a shake of her head. “But he's got enough on his plate without worrying about rogue commandos chasing me – or anyone else – down. And the presence of so many Force-users in one place is a dangerous thing right now. It was a good spot to rest for a while, but it couldn't last. We anticipated that.”

    But where would you want to go?” Weave asked, looking from Stonewall to Kalinda. “Where can we go?”

    The dark-haired Jedi shook her head. “I have an idea, but it's more of a selfish one than anything else. I wouldn't ask anyone to follow me.”

    Come on, Kalinda,” Crest said as he rolled his eyes. “Do you really think we'd let you go off on your own? Without us around, who knows what trouble you'd get into?”

    Kalinda laughed at his words. “I can only imagine, Crest.” Her expression grew thoughtful even as she glanced at her husband's chrono. “Anyway, I'd like to talk about it with everyone. We're a democratic little group, after all. I'm going to speak with Sita and call Altis. Weave, Levy, will you guys go get Traxis and the others? We can meet in the cafeteria. I think this is a conversation we shouldn't have on empty stomachs.”

    Levy grinned and immediately began to set off, Weave in his wake. Honi watched them leave, then looked back to her former Master. “What's your idea, if I may ask?”


    Naturally, Kalinda's eyes were on her husband, and they were looking at one another as if no other person existed. “Nothing much. Just tying up a few loose ends.”
     
    gracesonnet likes this.
  11. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    "Kalinda may have made a particular choice, but that doesn't mean that my fourteen year-old Padawan is ready for such a decision. Times are different now, but that doesn't mean that she should entertain the notion of romance with a teenage boy – particularly one who will mature twice as fast as she will. She did not miss the way that Drake's eyes slid to her apprentice whenever he was in her presence, which was often."

    LOL, Honi. Also, awww!
     
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  12. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    @gracesonnet - Oh, Honi... :p Thank you for reading! :D


    *****​
    Chapter Six: Decision

    Emotion flooded me, turning my body into a veritable hurricane of grief and anger, and I launched myself at the dark-skinned stranger. I screamed at him, slammed him with my fists, but he only stood there and absorbed my bitterness. “What do you know? You have no idea about me or my life!” To this day, I don't know if I said those exact words, but it was along those lines.

    Through it all he stood, silent and still, as if he were made of stone.

    Eventually I wore myself out, and I stood before him weeping even as my breath came in gasps. That was when he lifted my chin in his hand and frowned at me, his dark eyes fixed on my face. “I understand that you are in pain,” he said in a voice that I wanted to recognize, but couldn't quite manage. “But if you're tired of living, or if you think that your life doesn't serve a purpose anymore, you should find some use for it. Life – all life – is too precious to throw away.”

    There was a moment while he spoke where I felt a thread of calm weaving through my spirit, but it faded as quickly as it had come. And then he was gone and I was nothing short of bewildered.

    *

    As the members of their group settled around a large rounded table, Zara looked around the cafeteria of the Chu'unthor with what she hoped was a not-too-obvious longing. It's become like a surrogate Temple of a sort. Even though I knew we couldn't stay here forever, it was a nice place to live for a while, and I'll miss it.

    Like the rest of the praxeum ship, the cafeteria on the Chu'unthor was an amalgamation of various salvaged items that looked a bit strange when placed together: sleek durasteel chairs sat before worn wooden tables; dishes that were a mixture of spartan military-style and elaborate ceramic; wide windows of transparisteel set beyond hutches and cabinets that contained all manner of supplies. The members of her newly-formed family were dressed in a fashion that mimicked the composition of the Chu'unthor: a mosaic of comfortable clothes and modified military-issue equipment, except for Honi, who had taken to wearing her scrubs at all times. The clones had all kept bits of their armor, altering gloves and boots in order to better serve their new lives, but they'd elected to wear “civvie” garb in place of the plastoid plating.

    Presently Zara was seated between her master and Kalinda, as if the Jedi instinctively chose to remain close to one another. Stonewall was on Kalinda's other side, flanked by Weave, then Levy; beside him were the four other clone boys, then Traxis and Ares, Crest and the young Arunai woman they'd rescued. Last but not least, Master Altis sat between Honi and Sita, hands folded on the table before him with the look of concentration on his face. Everyone seemed so intent and serious, for a moment Zara felt an inexplicable urge to giggle, though she tamped it down and tried to keep her expression calm.

    It worked until Drake caught her eye and gave her a tiny smile. At this, she had to duck her head and look away from him towards Kalinda, who was taking a breath to speak.

    In case you don't know, the two clone commandos whom we encountered the night of Order 66 are currently in the infirmary; while they themselves are not a direct threat to us or to the safety of anyone on this ship, they do represent a problem that must be addressed.” She paused and glanced down, briefly, before raising her eyes again and meeting each person's gaze in turn as she continued. “Our presence on the Chu'unthor has always been a temporary one. Master Altis was gracious enough to allow us to remain here while we recovered from the...aftershocks of the war, but we can't trespass any longer. However much I might like to.” Here she smiled at the Jedi Master, who inclined his head in her direction.

    The Arunai woman, who had kept her eyes fixed on Kalinda, gave a small shake of her head. “I do not wish to infringe on anyone's hospitality, but why can you not remain here?”

    Keeping her tone gentle, Kalinda replied at once. “How much of the new Emperor's dealings with the Jedi are you aware of, Sita?” The white-haired woman's head shook and Kali's eyes flickered to Master Altis as she elaborated. “He's having his mysterious apprentice hunt the remaining Jedi down even as we speak. Those who can use the Force are able to 'sense' others of their kind; the more Force-users that collect in one place, the greater the 'presence.'”

    Master Altis has about thirty Force-users aboard the Chu'unthor right now,” Honi added, sitting upright. “With the addition of myself, Zara, Kali and Stonewall...” She trailed off as Sita nodded, her face drawn.

    But besides that,” Stonewall added, causing everyone's eyes to turn to him. “Those commandos knew about Kali and sought her out – and they knew about this place, to some extent. While I don't think they'll be able to find this ship on their own, especially if it keeps on the move, it's a bigger risk than I'd like to take.” He looked at the dark-haired woman beside him. “You were far too easy on them, you know.” She met his gaze but said nothing.

    From his place beside Sita, Crest leaned forward. “Where did you have in mind, Kalinda?” Zara noted that his awareness was only partly centered on the conversation at hand; much of it was focused on the young woman next to him, for all that he seemed overly careful to keep a distance between them.

    Kalinda nodded and reached into the inner pocket of her dark blue coat to pull out a small, leather-bound journal, setting it on the table before her. “Has anyone ever heard of the planet, Mundali?”

    Glances were exchanged across the table before everyone gave an almost collective shake of their heads. Zara studied the journal with a frown; it looked like nothing special, but something about the fragile pieces of flimsi seemed...big. Like it contains both the past and the future. The notion made her frown and give a small shake of her head. I'm too sentimental, sometimes.

    All I really know of it is that it's in the Outer-Rim,” Kalinda said. “And that my mother and father stayed there for a time before I was born.” She paused and let the words sink in.

    Honi reacted first. “Your mother?” Her brow furrowed as she studied her former master.

    This is all news to me, Zara thought as she kept her eyes on the journal. I have no idea of my parents. Most Jedi don't. I wonder how much – if any – of this Honi knew at all. Her master had never spoken to Zara about Kalinda's past, and Zara didn't blame her. It was all starting to sound a bit tangled and again she felt a flicker of warning.

    Kamala was a student of mine, for a little while,” Master Altis said as he gave the journal an almost remorseful look. “She was one of those Force-users who was not strong enough to be trained as a Jedi, though it was something she always longed for.”

    Surprisingly, the scarred clone Traxis spoke next. “So...why is this 'Mundali' place so important to you? What does the fact that your parents traveled there have to do with anything?”

    Kalinda took a slow breath; if Zara hadn't known any better, she would have thought that the dark-haired Jedi looked a little frightened, though her expression smoothed as soon as she began speaking. “Because I think it may hold the answers to some important questions.” The tenor of her words indicated that there was more to it than that, and even though she didn't elaborate, Zara did not miss how the dark-haired Jedi's eyes slid to her husband.

    A Force-sensitive clone. I know that's strange, but I don't understand how it's linked to some Outer-Rim world.

    Across the table from her, Drake caught her eye again and lifted his brow in an expression that said what are you, scared? As if on its own accord a smile spread across her face as she looked at him, and Zara got the definite sense that things were about to get very interesting, one way or another.

    *

    As much as he could, Crest tried to keep his attention away from the white-haired woman beside him and focus on the discussion at hand, which he knew was far more important than his own personal desires. But even through the seriousness of the conversation, he couldn't help how aware of her he was: her smell, the heat of her skin, the faint tremble in her fingers even as she rested her hands in her lap...all of those things had wedged themselves in his mind, and were causing him a bit of distraction. At some point – in the infirmary, he supposed – she'd bathed and been given clean clothing, and now she more closely resembled the woman of his memories.

    In appearance, anyway. She still seems uncertain. Indeed, she hardly seemed aware of the others' words after her few soft questions and the part of him that could still feel her lips against his own – even two years after the fact – wanted nothing more than to take her in his arms and try to smooth out the broken patches of her spirit.

    But the other part of him, the part that had seen enough of trauma in others to recognize when to keep one's distance, ordered his arms to keep their place along the whorls of woodgrain on the table and his eyes to remain fixed on whomever was speaking. He even managed to ask a question of his own, hopefully preventing Sita from realizing that he really couldn't stop thinking about her.

    At the mention of the Outer-Rim world, Crest noted that Stonewall's brow furrowed ever-so-slightly, though his expression remained thoughtful, and he wondered at the motion. Doesn't he want to know why he can use the Force? I know I'm pretty kriffing curious. Not to look a gift-bantha in the mouth, I guess, but still...

    After Traxis voiced his own question, Weave spoke up. “Let's say we do decide to journey there....we'll need supplies – especially if Mundali is as remote as you say – and if we intend to remain there for any length of time.”

    Crest knew that his brother was no doubt thinking of medicinal supplies, but it was a good place to start. “And we'll need food. Unless the adi'ke want to learn how to be farmers.” He thumbed at the younger clones and grinned as Risky shot him a mock-glower.

    I have some resources set aside for this type of contingency,” Altis replied. “You are welcome to them, but I fear it will only suffice for a few months.”

    Less than that, considering how much the lads eat. Crest and Weave exchanged a look and he could see that his brother had much the same thought.

    Here, Kalinda sat up, her hand resting on the journal. “I've thought about that. According to my mother, there are several structures that could – in theory – be converted into living quarters. There was an attempt to settle the place in the not-too-distant past, but the funding for the project was cut off before it was completed.”

    If that's the case, we'll definitely need some raw materials, not to mention some type of construction equipment,” Weave said, his tone thoughtful.

    Traxis nodded and glanced at Stonewall. “We have some experience with that, don't we?” At Ares' look of curiosity he elaborated. “That was where he and I met; we each spent some time constructing a few GAR bases while recuperating from combat.”

    Let's not get ahead of ourselves,” Stonewall said as he lifted his hand. “We don't know any of this for certain, but it's worth looking into.” He cast a glance at Kalinda and they somehow shared a private moment despite the fact that they were surrounded by others.

    It never fails to amaze me, how everything else falls away when they look at each other like that. Crest shook his head to clear it. To further distance himself from his own mind, he cleared his throat. “It seems like a decision has been reached, doesn't it? As long as the Wayfarer can make it to the Outer-Rim.”

    At this, Weave straightened in his seat. “She'll make it. The boys and I have been doing some work on the engines; I think you'll all be pleasantly surprised.” He shot the clone lads an appreciative look, and their shoulders squared almost in unison.

    They should be proud, Crest thought. None of us were taught the first thing about ships while we trained on Kamino. They're getting quite the well-rounded education.

    Honi spoke next. “What of the commandos?”

    I contacted Skirata,” Altis replied. “He's interested in taking them on, provided they can reach his agents at a specified location.”

    Ares, may we use the Raven?” Stonewall asked, looking at the Twi'lek. “It's the best ship for the job, I think.”

    The coral-skinned Twi'lek nodded, his hand going to his chin. “Certainly, my friend. I'll see them to safety.” He shot a questioning glance at Traxis, who nodded slightly as if to say of course I'm coming with you.

    That should give us enough time to collect what supplies we can,” Weave replied after a moment. “Assuming we're actually going?”

    Kalinda looked around the table, meeting everyone's eyes before she spoke. “Despite the state of rest of the galaxy, I think we're still a democracy. Does anyone have anything else to add?” No one spoke, so she nodded once. “Very well. All those in favor of traveling to Mundali, raise your hands.”

    I'm still not used to being included on the big decisions, though I guess I should be, Crest thought. Beside him, Sita shivered and he thought that she seemed a little afraid. However, he managed to catch her eye and give her a faint smile, hoping to ease her tension. After a moment she nodded and lifted her own hand.

    Every hand shot up; the decision was unanimous and Crest smiled to himself. It's a nice thing, democracy.

    *

    The morning after their decision had been reached, as he and his brothers strode through the expansive hallways of the Chu'unthor, Traxis considered the shape that his life had taken. Throughout his admittedly short existence, he had always felt like he belonged somewhere. As one of millions of clones, he was used to seeing the same face – his face – every day, at every turn. Even now, in what he supposed was another phase of his existence, he found that he enjoyed the familiarity of being near his brothers.

    Ares presented a host of different feelings, “belonging” namely among them. Others were harder to pin down. Excitement, he understood. Happiness, he figured. But beyond that...well. I'm not sure. I don't know what to name whatever it is that's between us. Trax wasn't like Weave, with his constant need to name or quantify everything, or Crest, who could float down the river of life without fear or doubt; Traxis questioned, but he also had a difficult time accepting the answers.

    In any case, he liked being near the coral-skinned Twi'lek, and had decided a while ago that would have to suffice for the time being. So he was pleased when Ares wanted Trax to accompany him on his “errand.”

    We left them in the infirmary for the night,” Stonewall was saying as he lead the other clones and Ares towards the medical wing the next morning. “I don't think they'll try anything, but just in case, we locked the door after we left yesterday and Master Altis had the room monitored.”

    After giving them a pretty sizable dinner,” Crest added in his wry voice. “That should endear us to them, if nothing else will.”

    Ares looked thoughtful. “They got a hold of a very nice ship. A Lancet.” He raised a brow at Traxis, who tried not to grin. “After making use of a few tow cables and some securing lines, and we managed to load her in the lower hold. Those Lancets aren't much for size, but they make up for it in speed. So I've heard.”

    Well, they can speed right on out of here, for all I care,” Crest added.

    Agreed.” Stonewall's voice was quiet, and Traxis knew that his brothers were also dwelling on Milo, whom the commandos had killed the night of Order 66.

    Milo. My brother deserved a better fate than to be shot by those two. Traxis felt a ripple of anger as they stopped before the doorway that lead to the commandos' room. I understand the whole 'Jedi-compassion' thing, but I wonder if Kalinda isn't being too merciful here. If the decision were mine...well, let's just say that an eye for an eye would work for me in this case.

    The commandos hadn't been wearing their normal kits when they'd been picked up, so they were outfitted only with fatigues that the members of the former Shadow Squad had laying around, remnants of their old lives. Standing at parade-rest rest at the center of their room, the younger clones emanated tension as the others filed in. It was a strange balance of power, as Trax had heard that the commandos had received top-of-the-line training as far as GAR was concerned, superseded only by that given to ARC troopers.

    So it was odd to see two younger clones who he knew were basically one-man armies quelling under Stonewall's gaze as he stood in the doorway, flanked by his brothers. “Are you ready?”

    Yes, sir.” Traxis had heard their names but hadn't made the effort to remember them, so he had no idea which clone answered.

    The former captain nodded once, then the group began to make their way to the hangar, walking silently through the Chu'unthor's passages. When they reached the hangar, Stone, Crest and Weave took a step back while Traxis, Ares and the commandos made to climb aboard the Stark Raven, which had already been loaded with the Lancet. Just as the commandos were about step on the ship, the soft sound of footfalls echoed in the massive room; the men turned to see Kalinda and Honi come to stand beside one another about twenty yards from the clones.

    Even a non-brother counldn't not miss the way that Stonewall tensed, nor the look that passed from him to his wife, but in the end the dark-haired Jedi kept the brunt of her gaze on the commandos, as did the red-haired woman who stood with her. The commandos looked at the Jedi as well, before one of them cleared his throat and glanced at Stonewall, who frowned but nodded.

    Slowly, the younger man stepped forward, towards the Jedi; after a moment, Kalinda moved to approach him as well. They met in the center of the hangar and for several long minutes there was no sound while they studied one another.

    Finally the clone spoke, his voice a whisper that carried through the vast chamber of duracrete. “For what it's worth, I'm sorry.”

    Kalinda nodded, her expression remorseful. “Me too, Ferro.”

    There was silence until Traxis couldn't stand it anymore. “Let's go, already.”

    Later, when the commandos were securely ensconced in one of the guest rooms aboard the Stark Raven, and he and Ares were seated at the helm, the Twi'lek gave him a speculative look. “What was all that about?”

    Traxis wasn't exactly sure, but thought that he knew, if for no other reason than he could read another clone's face as easily as if it were his own. Even so, he took a moment to respond, leaning back in the padded chair and watching the line of stars as they moved through hyperspace. When he did speak, his words were measured. “I'm not sure what caused it, but he seemed to regret what he did. And from what I know of Kalinda, she's partial to forgiveness. Jedi and all that.”

    Ares frowned at the viewport before them. “From what I know of the Jedi, forgiveness is what they do. But you don't sound so convinced about the whole thing.”

    The clone shifted in his seat. “I can't make any sense out of it, to tell you the truth. If it were me-” he frowned and thought of Milo. “-I wouldn't have made the choice that she did.”

    Then let us all be glad that you are not a Jedi.” The coral-skinned Twi'lek smiled at him through the glow of the twirl of stars, and Ares felt the knot in his chest relax just a bit at both the expression and the familiar, lilting accent.

    Despite himself, Traxis gave a quiet chuckle even as Ares reached for his hand. “I suppose so.”

    *

    The next day...

    Kalinda was seated with Sita, Crest, Weave and Honi beside one of the massive windows in the library, discussing preparations for their upcoming venture, but out of the corner of her eye she was watching Stonewall speak into his comm; his head tilted in acknowledgment as he listened, then he replied in a quiet voice that she couldn't make out from across the room. Curious, she reached to him through the Force.

    What is it?

    As he rose and crossed the room back to her, Stone met her gaze with a satisfied look. That was Traxis calling to let me know the the commandos got dropped off okay, and that he and Ares are on their way back now. He took a seat, settling next to Kali on the plush couch and casually placing his arm around her shoulders as he glanced at the others. “What'd I miss?”

    Honi was frowning, though it appeared to be more in thought than out of irritation. “I'm still not sure what kind of connection this place has with your Force use, Stonewall. Or yours, Kalinda.”

    Neither am I,” Kali replied, leaning into her husband. “But that's kind of why we're going, isn't it?” She smiled at Honi's expression of annoyance, then looked at the others. “Weave, Crest: how are our supplies looking?”

    From his place beside his brother, the bald clone leaned forward. “Pretty good. Altis had some...interesting stuff that he gave to us, but I think we'll be ready for most contingencies. As it stands now, the Wayfarer's good to go; once Trax and Ares get back, we'll load up the Raven so we can be on our merry way.”

    I've collected enough medical supplies to last us a few months,” Weave added with a smile, the blink of his ocular implant soft against the backdrop of stars beyond the library window. “And I've also packed water-purification tabs, a sanitizer, solar chargers, and a generator. But we will be roughing it, for the most part.”

    Kali did not miss how Crest's eyes slid to Sita, who still looked unsure; however, she spared him the question. “I think you're making the right decision to come with us. Didn't you tell me that your family often lived off of the land while you were growing up?”

    We were not wealthy,” the Arunai woman replied with a faint smile, her hands rubbing her forearms as she spoke. “But before I was fortunate enough to become queen, I spent most of my life on my adopted family's farm...it was difficult at times, but we made do.”

    The boys are excited,” Weave added after a moment. “They're looking forward to the change in scenery.”

    Crest grinned. “Staying positive. I like it.”

    It sounds like we're ready,” Stonewall said with a look at Kali. “What do you think?”

    Her eyes were on the stars. “I think it's time to get moving.”
     
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  13. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    " Like it contains both the past and the future. The notion made her frown and give a small shake of her head. I'm too sentimental, sometimes."
    ---------

    Aww, I like that bit!

    So the stranger who spoke to Kamala is totally Mace, right? I don't know, I can just see him going up to random strangers in Coruscant and dispensing deeply-personal, specific life advice, and then fading back into the crowd. The Temple doesn't get FiOS so you have to make your own fun**, you know? Qui-Gon volunteers at the tooka shelter to relax; Mace prefers pulling an 'Angel' on the civvies*

    *Qui-Gon would totally spend his free time at Coruscant's various animal shelters, homeless shelters, food kitchens, etc. And yes I just compared Mace Windu to Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Angel and his specific brand of mysterious moodiness. I am terrible.

    **Also a Buffy joke.
     
  14. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    @gracesonnet - Um, okay, so this is totally embarrassing...but I don't remember who the stranger is?! I think it's Qui-Gon, but I wrote this so long ago... Yeah. [face_dunno] Thank you for the comment, and the Buffy joke! :D I'm sorry I didn't update last week - osik happened. :oops:




    *****​
    Chapter Seven: Bits of Beauty

    For a while I thought I was a changed woman; I volunteered, I was kind to strangers and I tried to turn the time I had into something worthwhile in a number of ways. But it was all smoke and mirrors, because when I laid in bed each night, tossing and turning from the burgeoning illness, I still felt empty of everything but anger at the universe for cheating me of a normal life. Anger and pain would not let me go, or perhaps it was the other way around. Either way, I was past caring.

    Gradually the old habits returned. My family tried to intervene, which only whetted the edge of my bitterness even as it stung my idiotic pride. So I left again and told myself that I would never look back.

    I considered contacting the Jedi, but didn't in the end. What would they have done for me when I had nothing to offer them? But something pulled me in their direction, regardless.

    One day I saw his name in the HoloNet: it was story about a Jedi Master who left the regular Order to pursue his own path. A fluff piece, badly written by a rookie, but it intrigued me for some reason, so I sought him out.

    I remember wondering if he would be the thing that saved me.

    *

    Honi had never been a fan of long-distance hyperspace travel, but unfortunately it was a necessary evil. Some people – Kalinda included – liked to watch the miasma of stars plummet by the viewport, but she was not one of them. When she had been younger the sight had given her motion-sickness, and she'd also been leery of the medical texts that expounded on the the dangers of hyper-rapture, the illness which turned one's brain to a puddle of mush after too much stargazing.

    From the Chu'unthor's current position near Bespin, the quickest way to reach their destination would have been to take the Corellian Trade Spine through the Core, then make their way towards the trailing edges of the galaxy. Of course, as all major hyperlanes were monitored by the Empire, the group had elected to take, as Crest put it, the long way 'round.

    So rather than sit with her companions, she'd chosen to go to the cargo hold of the Wayfarer to take another inventory of their supplies and try not to think about the fact that they weren't technically in normal space, that they were in fact plummeting through an endless void, and that the slightest miscalculation at the helm could....

    Stop, she told herself with a frown. You're being ridiculous. It's only four days of hyperspace travel – mostly through unknown regions – with a few stops along the way to collect some last-minute supplies. Everything will be fine. Thankful that the cargo hold had no windows; even so, she repressed a shudder as she checked the manifest of a nearby stack of crates. In the mid-section of the ship she could hear Kalinda, Zara and Sita speaking to one another, while a brush of her mind told her that Weave, Levy and Drake were content at the helm for the first leg of the journey.

    The division of their forces between the two vessels had been the only point of contention between the group: Stonewall, Ares, Traxis, Crest, Keo, Finn and Risky were all aboard the Stark Raven, while the Jedi, Sita, Weave, Levy and Drake were aboard the Wayfarer.

    I know that Stonewall wasn't pleased to be separated from Kalinda, but it makes sense...should our communications go awry for any reason, they can speak to one another through the Force and keep a link between our two ships. She'd wanted Drake to remain with his brothers, but Weave and Traxis were reluctant to place all of the clone boys in one vessel; they'd claimed it was to prevent the lads from driving anyone too crazy, but Honi could sense the reality behind their concerns. Just in case something does happen, they're not all together. If we get lost or....she shook her head and moved to the next set of crates.

    That's not going to happen. It's just hyperspace making me think that way....everything is fine.

    To distract herself she tried to turn her mind towards other things as she continued her task. Normally, Honi prided herself on her logic, on her ability to ignore her emotional responses and act with calm and clarity, as a proper Jedi should. Now that the Jedi Order was almost decimated – they'd only met a few survivors – she felt that it was up to herself, Zara and Kalinda to carry on the traditions that had kept the Order in place for thousands of years. Duty. Sacrifice. Service to a greater good.

    But it was harder than she'd expected, particularly when her young Padawan seemed as if she was on her way to following Kalinda's footsteps when it came to attachment. I can't control what Kali does, but I must make sure that Zara doesn't go down that road....she's still so young.

    Her brow furrowed as she examined a philter of tranquilizer, noting that it was a rather potent variety and wondering how Weave had managed to acquire it. Altis had been more than willing to lend his help, but this wasn't anything she'd seen on the Chu'unthor. A faint smile came to her mouth as she set the vial back in its case. He's resourceful, as they all are, I suppose. I only wish I had realized it earlier.

    This thought reminded her of her promise to Levy, and she frowned as she moved to the next manifest. After her failed attempt on the Chu'unthor, she had taken to studying the nanogene droids a little more in order to learn more about them; it had been an experience unlike any other to reach through the Force and attempt to wrap her consciousness around the microscopic droids in Levy's bloodstream. But she had learned one thing: they were machines, like any other, and with the right amount of focus the Force gave a Jedi the ability to manipulate such devices. But it's going to take a lot of effort.

    The next crate was well-packed and secure, and she nodded in satisfaction, her mind straying again to Weave's implant; he hadn't said as much, but she wondered if he'd want her to attempt to remove it. After a few moments puzzling over the idea, she shook her head again. Nothing I can do about it right now; I should make sure that my mind doesn't stray from the task at hand. So she tried to shut off her thoughts as she made her way to the next crate.

    *

    The Wayfarer was quiet. Presently, Kalinda, Zara and Sita were seated at the galley table, drinking tea that the Padawan had brewed and talking of nonessential things. However, Kali got the distinct sense that Zara wanted to discuss something specific, so she studied the blue-skinned girl. “Something on your mind, Zar?”

    Zara cast a glance towards the hold where her master was ensconced to avoid the glare of hyperspace, then looked back at Kalinda. “Nothing much. I was just thinking about what you said about Mundali being linked to why Stonewall can use the Force. I know you don't know why, but when did you first notice it?”

    From her place beside Kalinda, Sita looked up, an expression of eagerness on her face. “Yes, I'm curious about that as well. It has something to do with your mission to Aruna, does it not?”

    The memory of that adventure made Kali's cheeks grow warm and she gave a slow nod. “It's a long story...good thing we've got plenty of time.” So she recounted the tale for Zara – leaving out some of the more emotionally messy parts – and watched with amusement as Levy and Drake seemed to listen as well from their places at the nav.

    After she'd finished, Zara's large eyes were even wider and her mouth was agape. “Wow...that's so romantic....” She shook her head, causing her multiple lekku to sway.

    I think so as well,” Sita said, smiling at the dark-haired Jedi. “An epic tale of love lost and found...” Her words took on a storyteller's lilt, made more pronounced by her accent, and Zara giggled.

    Kalinda chuckled as well. “Epic? It didn't feel that way at the time. I'm glad that Stone and I got to where we are now, though I do wish...” An image of Obi-Wan came to her suddenly, and she wondered for the thousandth time if he was alive. No amount of meditation or effort on her part allowed her to reach him through the Force as she'd been able to in the past, but she refused to believe that he was dead; she'd heard only that he was at large, somewhere. I'll find him. One day.

    These words caused Zara to look thoughtful. “So that was when you realized that you loved him, right? When did you....” She blushed a deep shade of blue, then cleared her throat as Kali raised a brow. “When did you realize that you were...drawn to him? Or was it the other way around?”

    It wasn't long after we started working together that I began to notice my feelings for him weren't entirely....professional.” That was an understatement, but she didn't think it wise to encourage Zara any more than she had already, so she left it there. “He says that he was attracted to me from the first moment we met...it just took me a bit longer to realize that it ran both ways.”

    The jessamin,” Sita breathed. At Zara's look of confusion, she elaborated. “Kali told me about this part...how she was struck down with a deadly poison and he helped her eject it from her body with the Force. How they woke up the next morning in a meadow, covered in white jessamin flowers.” The younger woman gave a wistful sigh and looked for a moment like she had when Kali had first met her.

    These words made Zara's eyes go even more round. “Wow...”

    Kalinda wondered if the girl was even aware that her gaze was sliding towards Drake, whose attention was fixed on her, despite the fact that he was speaking to his brother and Weave. Teenagers. I remember that age all-too-well. It seems very innocent now, but I suppose we'll have to keep an eye on both of them.

    Yes, near-death experiences are the stuff of true romance.” Honi's voice broke the spell as she entered the common-area and slid into the seat next to her Padawan, effectively blocking her view of the clones at the helm. Kalinda didn't miss that, either.

    But they are,” Zara protested, brow furrowed. “The whole thing sounds like something out of one of my holo-novels.”

    Seeing Honi's look of frustration, Kali shook her head. “Stone and I are happy together, Zara, but it hasn't always been this way. Good relationships take lots of work, and even with all of that, they are never without complications.” She watched as Zara nodded slowly and hoped that the girl was absorbing every word.

    The women sat in silence for a few minutes, listening to the hum of the engines and the murmur of conversation between the clones. Finally, Sita cast Kalinda a sideways glance, a curious smile on her face though she said nothing.

    What is it?” Kalinda asked.

    There was no response for a moment until the Sita's ruddy cheeks grew even darker as she flushed. Finally she cleared her throat. “I still can't believe that you're married, Kali. After everything that you went through on Aruna...”

    Lifting her eyes to the ceiling, Honi sighed and shook her head. “Here we go again.”

    But Zara leaned forward, gaze intent on the dark-haired Jedi, with her thoughts plain on her face. Kalinda smiled and looked down at her arms, outstretched on the small table. “The Jedi of old didn't refrain from having families, Sita. Like Altis and his students, they felt that it was possible to do one's duty and marry, or have children. Or both. It's not an easy path to walk, even in peaceful times.”

    But it's attachment,” Zara replied, shaking her head. “Master Yoda would forbid it.”

    As I've learned very recently, there is more than one way to be a Jedi, Zara,” Kali replied. Seeing Honi's expression, she cleared her throat. “But it took me a lifetime to reach the conclusion that I can love someone else and do my duty. And I think that part of the reason that Stonewall and I work so well together is that he's of a similar mind when it comes to such things.”

    The Arunai woman lifted her brow. “That may be true, but I also think there is a bit of destiny mixed in with the two of you, Kali.”

    This comment made Zara's eye widen again, and Honi blew out a huff of air. “Can we talk about something else?”

    At this, Sita gave an embarrassed smile and flicked her eyes to Zara. “I can oblige, but some questions should not be asked if young ears are close by.”

    Confused, Kalinda shook her head at her friend before glancing at the Padawan. “You realize that you have to ask me, now. Zar, cover your ears.”

    But...”

    Zara's protest was cut off as Honi rolled her eyes, leaned forward and clasped her hands over her apprentice's ears – more evidence of her mixed heritage. “You may as well ask her, Sita. Otherwise she'll never give up.”

    The Arunai woman bit her lip, then seemed to mentally shrug as she glanced at Kali again. “During the wars – after you and your squad departed my world – I began seeking more information about the clones. They intrigued me, you understand.”

    I do, Kali thought with a nod. Maybe more than you know. Of course, Crest had not been able to keep quiet about his and Sita's moment in the garden once the squad's mission to Aruna was over, but he hadn't bragged; instead, he'd come to Kali one evening after they'd left and quietly told her what had happened, indicating that he wanted to share his experience with someone who would empathize. She'd been touched that he'd done so, despite the fact that she'd realized it meant that he would probably never stop thinking of the young woman who sat beside her now.

    Judging from the flush in Sita's cheeks as she spoke, the feeling was mutual, to an extent. “I learned some things that I think are true, and other things that I knew were false....but there were a few bits of information that I could not categorize.”

    Hands still clasped around her – irritated – Padawan's ears, Honi tilted her head, natural curiosity overriding her discomfort with the topic. “Such as?”

    Sita bit her lip again and looked down at her hands. When she spoke, her voice was pitched so that only the women at the table could hear. Zara seemed resigned to her fate, though Kali could tell that she was trying to listen as best she could. “They are said to be men of great....stamina.”

    The word hung in the air for a moment before all eyes turned to Kali, who felt her own face grow warm. For a moment she was speechless, but then her former Padawan gave her a look. “Well? You're the reigning expert in that department.”

    Though she was reluctant to share the intimate details of her personal life, Kalinda also found that she was enjoying the moment of camaraderie between the other women, so she gave a slow smile. Clearing her throat, she glanced down at her hands once before looking up again. “All I have to say on that matter is that I have whole new levels of respect for Jango Fett.”

    *

    If he was truly honest with himself, it did bother Stonewall that he wasn't with Kali on this journey, but the tactical portion of his brain knew that it was for the best that they each remain on separate ships. More out of a desire to hear her voice he sent his thoughts to her; the Wayfarer and the Stark Raven were traveling in tandem through the line of hyperspace.

    How is everything on your end?

    There was a delay and he tamped down the flicker of worry that arose, as she replied in the next moment. We're enjoying a little girl-talk. Weave and the boys are engrossed at the helm. Another pause, and if they'd been face-to-face he knew that she would have been eying him. And your crew?

    He glanced over the controls at the nav station and listened to Crest and Traxis going over some more advanced sparring moves with the lads. Beside him, Ares was leaning comfortably into the pilot's chair, his eyes on the swirl of stars before them, his attention divided between the helm and the scarred clone who was demonstrating an effective type of head-lock on his brother while the boys tried to replicate it.

    Ow, Trax...just practice, remember?”

    Tell that to the Imps when we run across them again, baldy.”

    While the lads chortled, Stonewall smiled to himself. We're fine. Sparring practice and copious mockery.

    The usual manly pursuits? There was laughter in her thoughts and his smile widened.

    Exactly.

    She gave the equivalent of a mental sigh. I'll be glad to arrive. I'm already tired of sitting around. Things are much less interesting without you here.

    Stonewall felt a flare of happiness from the notion and returned the sentiment in kind, adding an inkling of something inappropriate that he thought would make her blush. Indeed, he could tell that it had the desired effect. After several minutes of sharing increasingly intense thoughts he reluctantly ended the exchange, as things were escalating to a point where he was getting ready to urge Ares to stop the ship so that he could step aboard the Wayfarer and find some time alone with his wife.

    Several minutes later, when he'd regained some of his composure, the coral-skinned Twi'lek cast him a glance. “Trax is right. It is a bit, ah...unusual whenever you Force-users speak to one another in such a fashion.” At Stonewall's look he elaborated. “Your eyes seem distant...I know that you're awake, because they're open, but you seem light-years away.”

    I've gotten used to it by now,” the former captain replied with a shrug. “But at first it was very strange.” Casting his mind back, he was startled to realize that he and Kalinda had been communicating through the Force for over two years. It feels like only yesterday, sometimes. And other times it feels like it's all I've ever done.

    There was a loud thud, accompanied by the shudder of durasteel as one of the adult clones was slammed against the bulkhead; mild but creative swearing ensued, indicating that it was Crest who had received the brunt of the damage. This was confirmed when Traxis spoke to the clone boys in an even voice, pointing out his brother's errors in form and judgment while Crest's cursing trickled into a groan.

    Ares smiled and gave a slight shake of his head, but said nothing. However, Stonewall didn't need words to catch the sentiment that the Twi'lek was emanating as he resisted the urge to twist around and take a look at what was happening. After a moment he glanced at the pilot. “Thank you again for all of your help. I'm sure that a trip like this wasn't high on your list of things you wanted to do with your time.”

    Not at all. I'm a wanderer to the bone,” Ares replied with a shrug. “I've never liked staying in one place for too long...that's why I left Ryloth so young, though in hindsight it was not...ah, the wisest decision.” At Stonewall's look of curiosity he took a breath and seemed to consider something for a moment before continuing. “Twi'leks are something of a....commodity to other species. Females and males, you understand. I was young and foolish and far too trusting.” His eyes narrowed at some distant trauma that Stonewall could extrapolate on his own.

    Trax mentioned that you were a bounty hunter for a while?”

    Lekku bobbing as he nodded, Ares' expression turned reflective. “I found my way to that line of work, after several twists in the road. Eventually I was able to apprentice to a well-known Togruti fellow who showed me the tricks of the trade, as it were. It was pleasant for a while; I was good at what I did and I got to travel a great deal...even managed to acquire a fine ship.” His hands smoothed fondly over the helm of the Raven. “But in the end, I found that solitary life too unpleasant, for many reasons. It was by chance – or the Force, perhaps – that I made my way to Altis. For a long time, that was enough, too.”

    Ares paused and looked thoughtful before continuing. “But even after spending so much time in the company of Jedi, I find that I have never met anyone quite like...” He trailed off and exhaled, not adding the unspoken name, but Stonewall understood.

    So after a bit of reflection he nodded. “We're all glad to have you around, Ares. You're welcome with us for as long as you want to be.”

    Traxis....get ready to go down. Hard.” Crest's tone was only a little joking and Stonewall resisted the urge to roll his eyes.

    Trax, however, laughed outright. “With a stance like that? Please. You couldn't take out a gullipud.” The boys chuckled as well, though it was more out of delight at the brothers' mock-arguing than anything else, and Stonewall wondered if they weren't learning too much.

    Ares smiled again and his eyes flicked to the transparisteel before him, where the reflections of the others could be made out. When he spoke again, his voice was soft. “Glad to be here, my friend.”

    *

    Weave didn't pay much attention to the conversation going on behind him, though his ears did perk up at the mention of Jango Fett, and for a brief moment he wondered what the women were talking about. Probably better I don't know, anyway.

    Prior to the start of their journey, he'd worried that Levy and Drake would be annoyed to be separated from their brothers, but neither one had shown even the faintest trace of such a thing; in fact, both boys were wholly engrossed in the lesson he was giving them about ship's systems. Levy was seated in the co-pilot's chair, running his eyes over the controls, while Drake leaned over him, elbows and forearms resting over the rim of his brother's seat.

    For a long trip like this, we'll have to make several jumps in order to stay on a safe path,” Weave said as he kept his eyes on the stars before them, using the filter of his implant to cut down the worst of the glare from hyperspace.

    Is that why it's going to take so long?” Drake asked, resting his chin on his arms.

    Weave nodded and indicated a readout on the console. “Partly. If we were to take a more established route, our progress would be quicker because we wouldn't have to stop so much. But since we're trying to avoid any...Imperial entanglements, we have to take the long way.”

    From his seat, Levy pointed to one of the devices that he and Weave had added to the Wayfarer's systems, causing the older clone to smile and shake his head. “Even with the mods we made to the sensors, I don't want to risk anything.”

    What do you mean?” Though he was speaking to Weave, Drake's eyes flicked to the side, as if he was resisting the urge to turn his head.

    Lev and I upgraded a few things on the Wayfarer,” Weave replied. “If we run afoul of any unfriendlies, we should know about it well in advance. And Ares gave me a few pointers on modifying our transponder codes so that we're not so recognizable.” It had taken a lot of work to get the little transport to a place where Weave felt comfortable flying it around open space, but he was confident that things were sound at this point.

    Drake studied the helm then looked at Weave. “Can I fly it?”

    Not now,” he replied. “But soon. I want all of you to know how to pilot.”

    Nodding, Drake ran a hand through his lengthening hair. Unlike their older brothers, the younger clones didn't keep their hair short – or nonexistent, in Crest's case – and, coupled with the civilian clothes that they wore, looked about as normal as five identical boys could. “Thanks, vod.” The word was spoken casually, but Weave felt a rush of pride when he heard the boy's use of Mando'a, and caught the affectionate term that meant “brother.”

    Sure, Drake.” He watched as Levy adjusted something on the nav; of all his brothers, Levy was the most technically-minded, and it was not all due to his implant. Behind them, the murmur of female voices provided a light contrast to the thrum of the ship's engines. Otherwise it was quiet.

    But it was a comfortable kind of quiet. I never thought that life would be like this. I always thought that I'd wind up being reconditioned or something equally horrific. Funny how things work out. At that point, Drake leaned forward and asked another question about the helm, which Weave answered, and the discussion continued.

    The journey was uneventful, which made for a nice change; the only problem came about when they arrived at the planet's coordinates, and Weave noticed something unusual. After a few scans to make sure, he called the Raven.

    Are the sensors malfunctioning, or is there no planet here?” At his words, he heard Kalinda, Tallis and the others rise from their chairs to cluster around the helm.

    Ares' reply was clipped. “It appears we were mistaken. I know that my scanners are working....but there's nothing there.” There was a muffled voice in the background that Weave recognized as Crest, but it was Stonewall who spoke next.

    Kalinda?”

    The dark-haired Jedi had closed her eyes, her expression indicating that she was accessing the Force. Everyone seemed to hold their breath, waiting. Finally her eyes opened and she blinked slowly. “There's something there...I can feel it, but it's very faint.” She frowned at the viewport.

    I can't feel anything,” Stonewall replied through the comm, his tone uncertain. “But I'm not as strong with the Force as you...”

    Weave was then acutely aware of Honi coming up beside his chair, standing only centimeters away. “I can get a vague sense, as well,” she added in a quiet voice. “Odd.”

    But Kalinda shook her head, her eyes on the stars. “It's okay. Let's land.”

    There was a weighted pause, then the Twi'lek spoke again. “Forgive me, but I'm...unfamiliar with landing my ship in empty space.”

    It's there,” Kalinda said. “Mundali is there, it's just...hidden.”

    The frown in Stonewall's voice was evident through the speaker. “I've never heard of anything like that, Kali. You're sure?”

    Weave peered at the sensors. “The gravity readings indicate that something's there, Stonewall. Perhaps she's right.” Stranger things have happened, I guess. Didn't I hear once that someone deleted Kamino from the Jedi Archives to prevent anyone from learning about us clones?

    Ares chuckled. “Very well, but if the Raven gets damaged, you owe me a new ship.”

    *****

    A/N: Okay, after spending far too much time researching the subject, I've concluded that – while Nautolans don't have ears – some Female Twi'leks do, so it stands to reason that Zara has ears as we think of them, as she's a hybrid of the two races.

    I debated keeping the “stamina” conversation in, but since it made me giggle it made the cut. :p
     
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  15. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    Don't wreck Ares' ship, guys! He'd be sad :(

    Hah, Qui-Gon pulling an "Angel" on people too...that is also awesome.

    This part feels like the calm before the storm. I like it :)
     
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  16. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    So does anyone else think of Obi-Wan Kenobi on Tattooine after Order 66 when they hear Les Mis' "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" or is that just me?
    Have some feels, everyone!
     
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  17. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    @gracesonnet - Wow, that song is pretty spot-on. Gah...the feels! :_| Heh. The true "storm" is quickly approaching. This is one of my odder stories, to be sure. ;) Thank you for the comments! [:D]

    *****​
    Chapter Eight: Potential

    So I sought out the rogue, the heretic, the savior of those who cannot be saved, and – in my mind, anyway – the last resort of a desperate woman. After some time I found him, and wondered if he would give me hope even while my own body attacked itself.

    We met in a dingy tapcaf in Coronet City and I thought that he seemed kind, not quite as grandfatherly as I'd imagined, but his eyes were honest. They narrowed when he spoke with me and the very first thing that he said after I gave him my name was: “what are you doing here?”

    I had no response other than ridiculous tears, flowing unbidden and unchecked down my face while he offered no comfort, just let me cry them out. After a long while, when I was quiet at last, he looked at me again and spoke, in a much more gentle tone. “What do you think I can do for you?”

    I don't know,” I replied. “Probably nothing, but maybe you can help me figure it out.”

    He smiled a little and I felt like I'd finally gotten an answer right.

    *

    When they finally reached Mundali's surface, Zara immediately forgot the strangeness of their approach in light of their arrival.

    The air was thick with moisture and heat, and she decided that she was going to like the place as she set foot on the ground and surveyed the towering trees that surrounded the landing site. Everything was so green it made her eyes hurt. Lush, she decided as she stood in a patch of sunlight. This place is absolutely thriving with life. She could feel it through the Force: the hum of energy that the flora and fauna of Mundali emanated, and it filled her with strength. A breeze blew, neither gentle nor hard, but it carried the scent of growing things and distant rain. She could smell water nearby and felt a leap of excitement.

    Ugh.” Drake was beside her, pulling out his shirt to send puffs of cool air to his face. “This shabla place is hot.” He glanced her way and noted her expression of rapture. “But you like it, don't you?”

    She nodded but made no reply, instead turning back to Kalinda, Honi and the others who were emerging from the ships. Both Jedi were moving slowly away from the Wayfarer, looking around with thoughtful expressions, while the clones seemed to share Drake's reaction.

    Crest was surrounded by the boys but glanced at the Arunai woman who was beside Kalinda. “Hot enough for you?”

    My mother mentioned the heat in her journal,” Kalinda replied, her forehead already damp. “But this is a little more than I was anticipating.” She looked at Stonewall, who had come to her side.

    He nodded and pointed towards the shade of the tree-line. “Let's take some cover and regroup. According to our scanners, we're not far from those ruins that your mother wrote about.”

    This whole experience feels like a story in a holo-novel, Zara thought as the group moved towards the shelter of the thick trees. There had been some debate among the crews of the ships about the best place to set down, but in the end they'd settled about an open patch of ground about three klicks from what appeared to be a cluster of ancient ruins. Apparently Kalinda's mother's journal had indicated that this was where she had started her research, so it was a logical place to begin their journey.

    Once they reached the shade, the heat and humidity were easier to bear, and everyone seemed a bit better as they moved to stand in a circle to discuss their next move.

    The first thing we should do is set up a base of some kind,” Stonewall said, the older clones nodding in agreement. “Once we have an area that we know is secure, we can explore.”

    But Kalinda shook her head. “I think we should take a look at those ruins first. That's where my mother and father stayed while they were here....”

    Weave looked thoughtful. “Maybe we could split up? Send one group to check out the ruins and the other can create a secure area for us to stay for the time being?”

    So we can either work or play,” Crest added. “Let me think about that for one second...”

    Stonewall sighed at his brother; he and Kalinda exchanged a look and he nodded after a moment. “That sounds logical.”

    In that case, Weave, Levy, Honi, Zar...you're with me,” the dark-haired Jedi said with a nod.

    May I come as well?” Drake asked.

    Zara thought that her master looked displeased at the notion, but Kalinda didn't seem to notice as she nodded. “Everyone will get a chance to look around, but I'll take another pair of eyes, for now.”

    Weave was reaching into the canvas rucksack he'd taken to wearing in place of his military-style pack; he removed several comlinks from a zipped compartment and passed them out. “Just in case. I have enough for the adults, plus three more for the younger set to share.”

    Thanks, vod.” Stonewall looked at his wife. “Please be careful.”

    She smiled up at him and kissed his cheek. “Always.”

    Moments later, they were brushing through the thick jungle towards the ruins, which Zara was anxious to see up close. Kalinda and Weave were in the lead, talking in quiet voices, Levy directly behind his elder brother, while Honi, Zara and Drake followed. There was no breeze beneath the cover of the canopy, but nor did much sunlight trickle down through the branches, and so it was a tiny bit cooler, if still very humid. The ground was soft with moss and old leaves, and their passage made little noise.

    In fact, there was hardly any sound at all, save for the brush of ferns as they made their progress on the path that was little more than a game-trail, which was growing more and more tangled.

    Soon they were all but fighting their way through the undergrowth and she wished that she could pull out her lightsaber, but it was still in pieces back on the Wayfarer. However, Kalinda had another solution: she paused, lifted her hand and used the Force to draw the curtain of boscage, thorns and moss aside, revealing a path that lead directly towards a clearing, beyond which they could make out patches of blue sky.

    Everyone had seen the flat, static images that the surface scans had provided, but nothing could have prepared Zara for the sight that met her eyes once they stepped out of the jungle and into the sunlight.

    The first thing that she saw – the only thing that she could see for several minutes – was a massive building made of some kind of amber-colored stone; it seemed to rest at the edge of a collection of structures, but it dominated them nevertheless. Resembling a squared-off pyramid made up of a collection of broad steps, the structure culminated in a simple, rectangular building at its zenith. There was a long staircase that ran the sloping length of the ziggurat, about two meters wide, made of the same type of stone. The building had a weathered appearance, and indeed, it had the feeling of something that had been forgotten for a very long time, a sense of antiquity that Zara had only come across a few occasions in her life.

    Other buildings of much-newer construction were placed to one side of the clearing, but none of them reached the height and mass of the first. The surrounding grass was thick but not as tall as Zara would have thought it'd be, given the overgrown nature of the place, though there were vines, moss and creepers that scaled the sides of the structure. A faint breeze stirred the trees beyond them and rippled the grass that lay in their path.

    No one spoke for a few minutes until Kalinda stepped forward and began making her way to the largest building, intent on climbing the stairs. Her face was set in concentration and she seemed heedless of everything else around. Zara didn't blame her, as she was also drawn to the building, but something held her in place, some nameless agitation that tugged on the edge of her brain and kept her feet still. Honi seemed to feel the same way, calling out to her former master once, though the other woman didn't appear to listen. After a moment the red-haired Jedi turned to survey the area again, shading her eyes from the high sun.

    Weave had also moved towards the building, albeit it was at a slower pace than the Jedi, and he appeared to be studying it with a discerning eye. Levy was on his heels, the younger clone's gaze darting around with excitement.

    Despite the brightness of the day and the pleasant breeze, Zara knew that something was not right, though she couldn't figure out what. Frowning, she shut her eyes and tried to reach out with the Force, but was unable to learn anything more.

    Drake had remained at Zara's side, his gaze moving between the Jedi and she noticed that his expression was perplexed. Finally he leaned his face next to her ear and whispered, as if reluctant to disturb her concentration. “What is it?”

    Zara blinked once and looked at him. “I'm not sure. It's...” Her hand lifted as though it could express what words couldn't. “Big,” she finished lamely. “Strange.”

    But he seemed to understand, as he nodded and looked around again. “Where'd she go?” This made the others turn back towards the place where Kalinda had been only moments ago, but there was no trace of the dark-haired woman.

    Did she climb the stairs already? I thought her knee was still wounded...even with the Force, I don't think she could make it that fast. A flicker of foreboding rose in Zara's chest and she looked at Honi, who was staring at the huge structure with narrowed eyes. “Master?”

    For several moments Honi didn't reply, then she gave a slight shake of her head. “Let's investigate.”

    *

    Despite the fact that she did not have a good feeling about this place, Honi kept her doubts to herself as she and the others began to ascend the staircase of the main temple. At least, she assumed it was a temple, if for no other reason than it felt like one should feel: ancient, heavy with energy and lives lived, though she could tell that no one had inhabited in this place for many centuries. Except Kalinda's parents, and whatever pilgrims attempted to settle the area before them, I suppose. She frowned to herself as the group climbed, wondering how Kalinda had managed to make it to the top so quickly; her own legs were starting to burn a bit from the effort, but it was an easily-ignored discomfort.

    Beside her, Weave looked curious but not as concerned as she felt. As though sensing the Jedi's thoughts he glanced her way. “Stranger things have happened. Until I have a reason to be worried, I'm keeping all speculation at bay.”

    But it's still odd,” she replied, shaking her head. Behind her, the rest of the jungle seemed to grow smaller and more distant. The temple was higher than it looked from the ground.

    He nodded but kept his eyes ahead on the small building that was drawing closer. Zara and the clone boys walked behind them, silent, but Honi could sense their agitation – except for Levy, who seemed unconcerned – and she shot another look at the adult clone, who gave a shrug and spoke in a low tone. “I don't know what to make of him sometimes, either.” A faint smile crept across his face and she turned her eyes away.

    Finally they reached the temple's zenith, everyone pausing to catch their breath before the entered. Honi cast out her awareness, but felt no trace of her former master, which made her heart beat a little faster in agitation. Not sparing a glance behind her to take in what was certain to be a panoramic view of the jungle, she stepped into the building proper, noting the abrupt change in temperature once she was enveloped in relative darkness. The air inside the building was cooler and more dry than outside, and her footsteps echoed on the stone floor. It was very still.

    She glanced at the others. “Zara, Drake and Levy...I want you to stay by the entrance.” They nodded, even Levy's face taking on a more serious expression. Weave pulled a small flashlight from his belt and flicked it on as he moved beside the Jedi, who turned back towards the room. “Kalinda?”

    Silence.

    The adults exchanged glances. Where in the blazes did she go? Honi took a breath and called out her former master's name again, but was met with the same reaction. “I can't feel her,” she murmured to Weave, trying to ignore the way that her hand was itching for her lightsaber. In response, he shone the light around the interior, edging the beam along walls that were bare of anything save smooth stone. It was larger than it looked from the outside and within there appeared to be no trace of life of any kind.

    There's nothing in here,” he said in a quiet voice that still managed to carry in the room. “Not so much as a cobweb.” Again, he and Honi exchanged glances and she felt a ripple of agitation move through her.

    What's going on?” Kalinda's voice from behind them made everyone nearly jump out of their skin and Honi whirled around to see the dark-haired woman standing in the threshold behind the kids, a confused look on her face.

    Gripped with potent relief as much as annoyance, Honi moved to her. “I should ask you the same question....and where did you go?” She passed Zara and the boys and stood before Kalinda, who knitted her brows.

    I suppose I wandered off for a moment. I didn't mean to startle anyone.” The dark-haired woman gave an apologetic smile that made Honi sigh.

    It's okay,” Weave answered, putting his flashlight away. “Gave us a chance to take a look at this view, at least.” He indicated the verdant swathe of jungle below them before he nodded to the stairs. “Should we keep exploring?”
    Yes, please,” Kalinda replied with a wry look. “I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm in no hurry to set up camp.”

    *

    Perhaps Kalinda's sudden disappearance and inexplicable return should have caused Weave more alarm, but all thoughts of that strangeness fled his mind when they set foot inside the next building. While the first one had felt like a temple of some kind, heavy with some kind of significance that was over his head, this one was more his style. Constructed of a material that reminded him of duracrete, the exterior looked decrepit and worn. The doorway was all but completely destroyed, crumbled in on itself, but upon closer inspection he could see that the interior of the building seemed to be untouched.

    Which turned out to be fantastic news, as he figured that this place would keep him busy for the rest of his short life.

    After squeezing through the fallen debris, Weave could only stare in wonder at the sight that met his eyes. It was much larger within than without, due to the fact that the room had been dug out of the ground, floor to ceiling being about thirty meters apart; a weathered brick staircase led to the bottom, which was – again – made of a predecessor of duracrete with streaks of light filtering in from slotted windows in the walls on the upper level.

    But that only registered in some small part of Weave's brain as he took in the rest. There appeared to be three sizable generators of some kind along the far bottom wall; at least, he thought they were generators, for they appeared to be of a similar, cylindrical shape that he'd seen in much older varieties, but they were wholly alien to him otherwise.

    What do they run on, I wonder? Solar energy? Geothermal? He moved across the space, inexorably drawn to the machines, Levy at his heels. A moment later he activated his implant in order to scan the area and possibly get a better grasp of the level of technological decay he might be dealing with, as he could make out several cracks and a great deal of dust and dirt along the potential-generators' controls.

    This technology isn't too old....maybe within the last two-hundred years. When were they placed here, I wonder?

    Weave.” Honi's voice made him pause in his tracks; blinking, he turned back to the others, who were still standing in the entrance.

    Head practically spinning from the whirlwind of his thoughts, Weave cast a helpless gesture to the machinery. “I just want to investigate...this is incredible...there's so much that we could do...”

    Kalinda gave him a knowing look. “I know, but we should keep moving for now. And if you don't leave now, you never will.” Beside him, Levy looked up with disappointment and Weave sighed.

    We'll come back,” Honi added after a moment. She sounded earnest, and Weave reluctantly admitted to himself that now probably wasn't the time to dive into the new project. So he patted Levy's shoulder and they made their way back to the others, slipping out of the entrance moment later and stepping once more into the bright sunshine.

    The other buildings were not nearly as interesting, but Weave could see potential everywhere he looked: here was a structure that may have once been housing of some kind, as there were multiple walled chambers that could easily be converted into living spaces; there was a broad, low building in relatively good order that could have a thousand uses; here was an old well that, after a bit of persuasion, he thought would be able to coax fresh water from the depths.

    It will take a lot of work, he thought as they looked around. A lot of work. But I think we can pull it off. As the Padawan and the clone boys examined an overgrown patch of terrain that looked as though it had once been farmed, a long time ago, he glanced at Kalinda. “Those generators aren't an ancient technology. I wonder where they came from?”

    She seemed to consider. “I'm not sure. My mother's journal mentions that it appeared as if the planet was settled at more than one point in its history...who knows how many travelers found their way here?”

    The “missing planet,” the generators, that strange temple...this place is a carnival of oddities, that's for sure. We have our work cut out for us.

    Hours later they'd reached the outskirts of the settlement, and he realized that the entire place was built atop a hill that overlooked a huge stretch of jungle. It was green as far as Weave could see, even with the magnification from his implant, and he shook his head in wonder. Honi stood beside him, hand shielding her eyes from the sun that was just starting its descent through the clouds to the horizon, and said nothing.

    It's lovely,” Zara whispered, her eyes bigger than normal as she took everything in. “It's so beautiful here. Isn't it?” She glanced up at her master and smiled as Honi nodded absently, while Weave noted that she seemed heedless of the way that Drake was looking at her, as if he had eyes for nothing else;
    when he realized that he was being observed, Drake flushed and turned away from the Padawan.

    Levy was quivering with excitement as well, though his gaze was not on the vista, but rather the buildings behind them. When Weave caught his eye, the boy gave a wide smile, his eyes alight. Chuckling, Weave ruffled his hair. “It's going to be interesting, isn't it, Lev?”

    Beyond them, Kalinda stood alone, hands at her sides, eyes fixed on some distant point on the horizon. A breeze lifted the edges of her hair, which had stared to unravel from its braid, but she did not appear to notice. If Weave had been a man of idle speculation, he might have thought that she looked a bit frightened, but it was a fleeting expression that smoothed over in an instant. The sun moved past a section of cloud and a shaft of light slipped out and caught her dark eyes for one moment, turning them the color of fire before they faded back to normal.

    *

    Kriff, it's hot.” Crest paused to wipe his brow with the hem of his short-sleeved shirt before he stepped off of the Stark Raven's loading ramp with the folded food-prep table balanced on his shoulder. He glanced behind him at Stonewall, who was lifting a crate of rations. “I mean, it's really hot.

    We heard you the first thirty times,” Traxis called out from the shelter that he and Ares were erecting in the middle of the field; they had re-positioned the ships to make a barrier of sorts against the forest, and had decided to set up their campsite in the center. It made sense to sleep in the ships for now, but Crest thought it might be too stuffy to sleep comfortably anywhere.

    Not that I want to lay around in this heat, but still. An insect buzzed around his ear and he swatted it away. Lovely place, this. Why couldn't Kalinda's parents have ended up on a nice beach somewhere? When he reached the cover of tarps, he began to assemble the cooking station and trying not to make it too obvious that he was keeping an eye on Sita. She had begun sorting through the crate that Stonewall had set down before making his way back to the ship, and had not spoken much in Kalinda's absence, though she did not appear to be uncomfortable in the presence of the clones and Ares.

    As a matter-of-fact, she was smiling at Keo as the lad handed her another box. Crest heard the low lilt of her voice as she thanked the boy before she glanced his way. Of its own accord his heart beat a tiny bit faster as he held her gaze and managed to give an easy smile that he hoped concealed his agitation.

    He indicated to the station before him, shaded by the tarps. “Should be all set up in a minute. Then maybe I can cook something that isn't prepackaged.” Another insect buzzed around him and he shook his head to avoid the pest.

    Sita nodded once and looked down at the box in her hands. “I think you'll need these,” she said as she stepped to him, holding out the container. Inside were most of his cooking tools, as well as a few pots and pans.

    Thank you.” He took it from her and gave her another smile that she did not return, though she did not look away from him. They were a little less than an arm's length from each other and he was naturally reminded of Aruna and of the garden. For a moment he could feel her lips against his and he was overwhelmed with the memory even though he could see that she seemed uneasy. So he broke the gaze and nodded to the box. “This will definitely come in handy, later. Implements of destruction and all.”

    She took a breath to speak and he leaned forward to listen, but in that moment Stonewall's comlink chirped, the sound echoing in the clearing. The former captain made his way to the shelter and set down his crate before replying. “Weave?”

    The medic's reply was excited, so much so that Crest was hard-pressed to make out much of the jumble of words besides “generator,” “settlement,” and “creepy temple.” Well, that sounds like fun.

    Stonewall seemed confused as well, though his reply was even. “Are you heading back now?”

    Yeah. Not much else we can do at the moment...I'll need my tools, of course, and night will be here soon. Have you set up the generator?” Everyone glanced towards the Wayfarer, where Weave had stowed the bulky object, and where it remained.

    The former captain cleared his throat. “We were waiting for you, vod. Didn't think that we should have all the fun.” He paused; some nameless emotion flickered across his face, but it faded in a moment as he signed off.

    Weird. He looks worried about something. Well, he usually does, I guess. Crest risked a look at Sita, who was gazing at the forest. “Are you thirsty?”

    She turned to him as he held out his canteen. For a moment he wondered if she would refuse, even though he could see perspiration on her forehead, but she nodded and reached for the container, taking a single, long drink before handing it back to him. “Thank you.” He decided that her voice was still his favorite sound.

    So he smiled again and gave her a brief, casual salute with the canteen before taking a drink himself. “Anytime.”
     
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  18. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    "He decided that her voice was still his favorite sound."

    Awww!
     
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  19. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    "gracesonnet - Wow, that song is pretty spot-on. Gah...the feels!"

    I know, sorry! It also reminds me of a post-Misty Mountains Bilbo Baggins, back in the Shire, washing dishes, and remembering Fili and Kili's song :-(
     
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  20. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    gracesonnet - I love hearing song recs. Keep 'em coming. [:D] Thank you for reading! [face_love]

    *****​

    Chapter Nine: Out Of Mind


    From the first moment I set foot aboard the Chu'unthor, I knew that I would not die on that ship.

    It didn't matter that I'd resolved to spend the remainder of my days working with Djinn and the Altisians...despite all evidence to the contrary I knew with absolute certainty that my life would not end there, though I had no idea what direction my steps were supposed to take. So in the meantime, I decided to try and be content, as there was much work to do; for a while I was able to set aside my own discomfort and offer my life to those less fortunate than myself.

    And then the Force, which – despite my deepest longings – had been so absent from my life, spoke to me in the name of a distant planet that one of Djinn's students had come upon by chance. The moment I heard its name I was struck with an inconsolable urge to visit this place and unlock its mysteries. So I spoke to Djinn, who agreed, though I could see the doubt in his eyes. He didn't like the thought of me going off on my own. But I didn't care, and threw myself into research anyway.

    *

    Stonewall had only caught a trace of misgiving from his wife while he'd spoken to Weave over the comlinks, but it was enough to cause him concern. When he'd tried to reach her through the Force, it was a little harder than it should have been, but not as if she wasn't there; it was almost as if her own consciousness had turned away from his own, though the feeling faded quickly. But he didn't like it, and as he helped the lads set up a folding table on which everyone could eat, he wondered if she was angry with him.

    Perhaps I'm being paranoid...I don't think I've done anything to bother her. He gave a mental shrug and wiped off his forehead with the sleeve of his shirt. Everyone was dressed in light clothing that still stuck to one's skin with damp and he longed for a shower. But until they had a new source of clean water, the 'freshers were limited to sonic-only; judging from the amount of humidity and plant life, he figured that fresh water would not be too difficult to come by once they had a chance to look for it. While they intended on staying on the ships for the time being, he had hopes that the buildings on Mundali could be converted into a habitable space, and was looking forward to Kali and Weave's report.

    Never thought all that survival training would come in so handy,” Crest said as he gathered the beginnings of their dinner, swatting away another insect as he opened a packet of dehydrated nerf strips. “Of course, we did spend those years running around various jungles with Kalinda, so this isn't that different. Less droids, though. That's pretty nice, I guess.”

    Would you like some help?” Sita's voice was quiet and Crest looked up at her as she stood before the table, arms behind her back, face tilted up to him.

    Stonewall noted that his brother held very still for a moment before nodding and handing her the plate as well as a knife, hilt first. “Cut these up, please?” She took the objects and moved to a free area on the table. Neither one spoke after that and their movements were polite, but the Force told Stonewall a different story.

    Patience, Crest, he thought. From what I can tell, she cares for you too, but you both need time to adjust. Neither one of you is the same person that you were two years ago.

    None of us are, actually. He glanced around at the others: Traxis and Ares were finishing what looked to be something of a tarp-fortress; they had circled the open space between the ships with tarps, leaving open patches for a breeze to slip through, and provided cover as well, as it would probably rain at some point, given the thick clouds that were starting to amass in the upper levels of the air. The boys were off collecting firewood, with instructions not to wander too far.

    It was oddly domestic, and Stonewall wished that Kali were there to share the moment.

    His wish was granted several minutes later when he sensed her approach, along with Honi, Weave and the kids. The former captain moved to the tree-line to meet them, smiling when his eyes fell on his wife. She was sweaty and had dirt smudges on her arms, but she met his gaze with a grin and he felt his concerns slipping out of his mind as he reached for her hand, pulling her towards him so that he could kiss her. “Welcome back.”

    She leaned into him and returned the action in kind, albeit with a bit more energy than he would have imagined after half a day of trekking through the forest. On that note he pulled back and looked down at her knee, covered by the leggings she normally wore. “How is it?”

    It's still there,” she replied in a light voice. Seeing his frown she sighed and put her arm around his waist. “It's a little sore, but not awful.”

    He nodded. “I'll try to help you with it, later. Unless you want Honi to take a look?” At the mention of her name, the red-haired Jedi glanced up, but Kalinda shook her head.

    I'm fine,” she said, meeting his eyes. The thought occurred to him that he would never get tired of her gaze on him, and he kissed her cheek with an affection that made her grin. “A little hungry....and we have some exciting news.”

    Oh?”

    Weave had been watching the boys, who were returning from the jungle loaded with firewood. Levy rushed to meet them and the group began conversing with a mixture of hand gestures and hushed voices. After a moment he glanced over at Kalinda. “There are generators here. Not operational now, obviously, but with a little hard work...” He trailed off and Stonewall chuckled to himself at his brother's expression, which showed that he was lost to his own thoughts.

    And the condition of the buildings seems to be adequate,” Honi added, glancing from Weave to Kalinda. “There's quite a bit of space, actually. More so than we could ever hope to fill.”

    Zara's gaze was on the younger clones, but she looked up at the adults. “There's a well and a garden or something, and the most beautiful view I've ever seen.” Her voice was slightly breathless.

    A garden?” Sita had been handing a plate to Crest, but she looked up at the word, her eyes wide and her voice eager. “How large? In what condition?”

    Kalinda held up her free hand, as the other one was still wrapped around Stonewall's waist. “All in good time, okay? Let's discuss this over dinner.”

    Suffice it to say that we'll all be very busy for the foreseeable future,” Weave added, his gaze still on the clone lads. “Get ready to work, adi'ke.” They looked perturbed – except for Levy – and Stonewall chuckled to himself.

    You Jedi have perfect timing,” Crest added, lifting the pan he'd been holding over the small stove. “Soup's on.”

    *

    From his seat beside Ares, Traxis listened to all the talk of the others with only part of his attention. Illuminated by the glow-lamps they'd set up around the perimeter once dusk had fallen, an animated Weave was describing some old generators or something that he'd found while Honi and Kalinda talked about the rest of the settlement they'd come across. There was something about the dark-haired Jedi playing a joke on the others that he didn't catch; however, most of the talk turned to the settlement, and the possibility of turning it into someplace habitable for the duration of their stay. That was when his attention had started to drift.

    At the mention of staying, possibly for a length of time – the term months was bandied about – Ares shifted in his seat and his expression tightened. He's a traveler, Trax thought. He's told me so before. Will he want to hang around here that long? Whatever it was that was between them felt so new at times, Trax didn't know what kind of reaction he was supposed to have to the unpleasant thought. Anger didn't seem logical, neither did frustration, and he didn't like sorrow or remorse.

    So he shrugged them all away and swatted at another mosquito that had found its way towards him, glancing at Weave as he did so. “I don't suppose anyone remembered insect repellent?”

    His brother's eyes lit up the way they did when he had the answer to something, but he shook his head. “In a manner of speaking.” He looked at Levy, seated beside him and bent over a datapad that he'd set his empty plate aside for. “You remember the present that Altis gave you, right?”

    The boy looked up with a grin; minutes later he'd darted off to the Wayfarer, trotting back with an odd, cylindrical-shaped device, about a third of a meter tall and half as wide. He flicked an unseen switch and a clear, violet-colored light blossomed in the interior of the object.

    Crest leaned forward as Levy set it down on top of a stack of crates. “What's that, Lev?” A if to answer his question, there was a buzzing sound as an insect flew past the clone boy, directly into the light, where it met its end with a satisfying snap. Several more followed in its wake and Traxis chuckled.

    I haven't seen one of those old things in ages,” Ares replied from beside him, smiling at the boy. “That's certainly going to come in handy.”

    Remind me to thank Master Altis when I see him again,” Zara added, though her words were cut off by the device again as more insects darted to the deadly light. Everyone let out a chuckle at that. There was more convivial chatter as plans for their settlement turned speculative, then veered into ridiculous. At some point, Keo and Finn started imitating Trax and Crest's sparring sessions aboard the Raven, and even Traxis had to laugh at his younger brothers' rendition.

    It feels good to be like this, Trax thought as he glanced around him at the others. Nice...like how a family should feel, I suppose. This thought put the memory of Milo at the forefront of his mind, and he found his smile fading. I've lost countless brothers, but none like him. It's different...he was a brother, but more, too. He was more than that to all of us.

    Among clones, there was a thing known as brothers-by-choice, which was the strongest bond that troopers could have. While all clones were essentially brothers, this was a deeper connection that was often difficult to explain to outsiders.

    Across the table, Stonewall caught his eye and Traxis figured that the other man had picked up on his thoughts; the former captain gave a small nod as if in understanding, then looked up at Kalinda, who was laughing at something that Crest was saying. “Care to break out the dulcimer?”

    I can do better than that,” she replied, glancing at Levy, who had sat up at the mention of the instrument. “Lev, will you help me?” The clone boy nodded eagerly and followed the Jedi to the Wayfarer, where they disappeared into the hold.

    Ares cast Traxis a curious look. “Another impromptu concert?”

    It happens if you stick around long enough,” the scarred clone replied with a wry grin. Indeed, several minutes later they had returned and were passing out various instruments, and Traxis found that he had missed his bes'bev, a Mandalorian flute, as it had been some time since he'd picked it up. Stonewall had his ion steel guitar, Kalinda had her viol; Weave had been teaching Levy the dulcimer and was showing the lad a few chords; Crest had given away his Nautolan harmonica some time ago, but Kalinda had managed to acquire a new one, with which he was experimenting; the only remaining item was the small set of dual-sided drums – tablas – that Milo had always played.

    Everyone looked at the instrument for a moment before Sita lifted her eyes to each of the adult clones in turn, clearly unaware of their significance. “Those are from Aruna...may I?”

    You can't,” Traxis said, the words leaving his mouth before he knew what was happening. “Those are Milo's.”

    For a moment it was silent, save the erratic snap of the insect-killer. Then Kalinda spoke, her tone gentle. “Trax...”

    Milo's gone. I know. It was still raw, at times, so he took a breath and nodded. Suddenly there was a warm hand on his shoulder, and he glanced at Ares, who was watching him with concern. “Right,” he said at last, nodding to the drums. “Go for it.”

    Crest cleared his throat and handed the drums to the Arunai woman, who did not meet his gaze. “Here you go,” the bald clone said in a quiet voice. She took them with a nod and ran her fingers across the taut skein of the surface, still hesitant.

    The abrupt sound of the dulcimer made everyone start, and all eyes fell on Levy, who was grinning over the instrument. It seemed to draw the adults out of their haze, and within a few moments some true music began to emerge from the group; Traxis was pleased to discover that he had not forgotten how to play, after all.

    *

    Later that night, Kali thought that she was dreaming, but it was unlike any dream that she'd ever experienced. Where the murky depths of sleep would normally make her dream-self confused and muddled, she felt clear-headed. Lucid. She knew that she was still on Mundali, but everything felt...different. There was no heat, no humidity, not even the remotest feeling of being uncomfortable or tired in any way. He knee didn't even hurt. In fact she felt nothing. Nothing.

    The realization made her uneasy.

    In her dream, she saw the ancient temple, climbed the steps and entered the massive room, but it was not empty as it had been earlier that day. The space was filled with people – Near-Humans that she did not recognize – dressed in strange clothes and speaking in a language that she couldn't name, even though it sounded familiar.

    After a moment of concentration, she realized where she had come across it before: in the Jedi Archives, when she'd first discovered the shield technique that had proved so useful for her the past few years. My shield is related to this planet? I don't remember reading about it in my mother's journal, but that seems to consist mostly of personal notes. She did mention that she collected much research, though...I wonder if it was her research that I studied at the Temple – there wasn't a name attached to any of it, but that's not too unusual for the Archives.

    It was a dizzying line of inquiry, but before she could ruminate further she realized that the room was filling with more and more people, all of whom seemed to be clustering around something in the center of the room that she could not make out through the press of bodies. None of them paid her any mind, and she wondered if they could see her at all. She considered using the Force to urge them to the side, but decided against it, as there was a solemnity to the air that reminded her of a funeral rite.

    In fact, as the people shifted around, she could make out what appeared to be a young woman stretched out on a stone altar; after a few moments the sound of rhythmic chanting began to ease up from the throats of those gathered, and Kali thought that the sound would have made the hairs on her arm stand up had she been awake. Who are these people? Whose death are they mourning?

    Then a new voice sounded, familiar but strange as well as it stuck out among the others. “Kali? Kali...where are you?”

    She turned but saw only the jungle and the stairs that lead to the bottom of the temple. Was it just a trick of my mind? In the center of the room, the chanting grew louder and more urgent, and she could practically see the shimmer of Force-energy in the air surrounding the body at the center of the crowd, as if everyone in the room was directing their focus towards the same place. Forgetting the odd voice for a moment, Kali tried to get a better look, and realized with a start that the figure that she'd thought was deceased was actually alive; an young, woman with sleek hair and pale skin. Her eyes were fixed above her, at something that Kali figured only she could see.

    The chanting rose again, the timber of voices soaring higher and higher. It was overwhelming and Kalinda took a step back as if to separate herself from the raw, humming energy that the group was emanating. Are they all Force-sensitive? It certainly feels that way.

    Kalinda. There you are.” It was the same voice – a woman's – and again Kali was struck by the familiarity of it. It kind of reminds me of my voice...that can't be good.

    Her eyes narrowed and she reached out with the Force. “Who are you?” Despite the presence of the crowd there was nothing. Not a flicker of life and she shook her head.

    The familiar-but-not voice was directly to her left, but when Kali looked, she saw only empty air.
    Kalinda....you have to leave this place at once. It's too dangerous for you to be here, now. Please...”

    Who are you?” Kali stepped towards the sound, noting how the people in the temple continued not to notice her, as if she were a ghost. “What are you talking about?”

    But there was no answer.

    The chanting had risen to a fever pitch at this point, and she could now sense the intent of those gathered as clearly as if someone was shouting in her ear: you will live forever...you will conquer death...whatever it takes.

    Her awakening was sudden and gasping, as if she'd been drowning and was just managing to breach the surface of the water. A hand flew to her forehead as if to catch the dream, but it was already fading into oblivion. Even though she'd had a sonic shower before bed, her entire body was coated with sweat and for several moments she had no idea where she was, until she felt Stone's hand on her back and heard his voice, tentative and hazy with sleep. “Kali'ka?

    Stone...” She looked beside her and exhaled with relief when she saw that his eyes were open and he was leaning towards her. They were on the Wayfarer, in the cabin that they'd shared during their army days, and she realized that her legs were tangled in the sheets, almost binding her in place.

    His palm was warm against her cheek and she knew that he was completely awake now when he spoke again. “Are you okay?” She considered the question, then nodded, though she was unable to find her voice for a moment.

    I am...I just had a strange dream.”

    Seeing her hesitation, Stonewall gave her a knowing look. “You're sure?”

    Kali nodded and gave him a smile as she tried to mentally shake the images out of her head. It was just a dream. It wasn't real. The words echoed in her mind as her heartbeat evened out, steadied. It was still rapid, but it was not with fear or agitation, and when he kissed her, she was able to push away the last remnants of the dream to focus on her reality.

    *

    Dawn was not so bright on Mundali, given the prevalent cover of the jungle. Light from the sun gradually filtered its way through the canopy until it reached the clearing, glinting off of the ships as Honi moved to Crest's station to prepare some caf. It only took her a few minutes until she had a steaming mug in her hand, the rich scent filling her nostrils and bringing her a semblance of calm as she sat at the edge of the table and faced the jungle.

    There was no sugar out, but she didn't mind the caf black and she sipped it idly, wincing as it was still too hot to drink, and considered the events of the previous day. What happened at those ruins? It's not like Kalinda to wander off without at least mentioning it to someone. I know it may not seem like much, but it bothers me, anyway. Especially since I couldn't feel her through the Force.

    The thoughts were unsettling; Honi frowned at the caf for a moment before resting the mug on her knee, watching the jungle steam as the dew was already being burnt away by the rising sun, and thinking that she should have put her hair up before she'd stepped outside.

    Morning.”

    She looked down at her mug as she answered. “Good morning, Weave.” The clone stepped to the cook-station and reached for a cup of his own, pouring a measure of caf before he began rooting around for sugar. After he'd found some, he added several packets before coming to stand near her, sipping and looking at the forest as well, even though she could tell that his thoughts were elsewhere.
    Neither one attempted conversation until she cast a sideways glance at him. “Is it okay?”

    At his perplexed look she nodded to the caf and he lifted the mug and gave her a smile. “Perfect. Thanks for making it.” He seemed to consider something, then looked at the forest again. “Zara was right...it is pretty here.”

    Something's not right.” She couldn't stop the words from coming out of her mouth and he gave her an odd look but did not urge her to elaborate. After a moment she sighed and ran a hand through her hair. “I don't like that Kalinda disappeared yesterday.”

    He nodded. “She didn't seem overly concerned about it, did she?”

    Honi frowned and stared down at her mug, her eyes unseeing as she cast her memory back. “No, she didn't.”

    Weave cleared his throat and looked at the forest again, his eyes squinting as he worked his implant – or at least, that's what she assumed he was doing – before he spoke. “Perhaps it's this planet. There seem to be a few unusual aspects to the place.”

    I thought you didn't care for speculation unless you had all the facts?”

    Oddly enough, she felt her cheeks flush pink when he smiled at her. “Usually. But I'm only Human.”

    Honi was silent a moment more before speaking again. “I've been thinking about Levy and the nanogene droids. I think I'd like to try again, if he'll let me.”

    Do you really think you can manage to get them to...let go?” Weave's voice was curious but a little wary, as it always was whenever someone talked about his younger brother.

    She sipped the caf and took a breath before meeting his eyes, tinted a rich gold by the morning light. “I hope so...” Her words trailed off as she watched Zara step out of the ship, blinking. The clone boys were all sleeping on the Raven, but Honi was mindful that her Padawan's thoughts were drifting more and more to Drake of late. The Nautolan girl smiled at her and nodded to Weave as she approached, eyes on the caf as she opening her mouth. Honi beat her to the punch. “No. It will stunt your growth. Why don't you make some tea?”

    Zara gave a sigh and shook her head, her lekku swaying. “I'm fourteen, you know. That's practically an adult.”

    Since when is a fourteen year-old considered an adult? Honi looked at her apprentice. “You have a long way to go before you'll reach that point, Zara. Come on,” she said as she drained the rest of her caf before setting the mug down. “It's time to meditate, anyway.” Her apprentice sighed but nodded and they stepped into the woods. For a while they walked in silence and Honi took a moment to study her Padawan through the Force, noting with dismay that the girl's thoughts were on Drake, yet again.

    That's a nice spot,” Zara said, pointing towards a copse of flowering trees whose sweet scent coated the morning air. A few minutes later they were seated at the center of the group, legs crossed, backs straight. But while Zara seemed to relax into the familiar practice with ease, Honi was hesitant. Finally she cleared her throat, causing her Padawan's eyes to open as she spoke. “What is it, Master?”

    You need to be careful, Zara,” Honi said without preamble. “You're young, but already I can sense your attraction to Drake growing quite strong. You should be aware of your thoughts because they'll influence your actions.”

    Zara's forehead creased and she studied her left knee. “I am.”

    You're not,” Honi replied, shaking her head. “I know that you care for all of the boys, but I also know that how you feel about Drake goes beyond friendship. You need to be careful around him, Zara.”

    The Nautolan girl took a breath and glanced away from her master for a moment before turning back, her lekku shifting with the abrupt motion. “We're just friends. I'm allowed to think about my friends, aren't I?” Her voice held an edge that the Jedi hadn't heard from her before, and Honi immediately wished that Kalinda was there.

    She's better at this kind of talk than I am. I suppose experience helps in that regard. So Honi just looked at her apprentice with the most stern gaze she could manage. “Be mindful of your emotions, Zara. They will betray you.” With that, she straightened her back, closed her eyes, and tried to empty her own mind.

    *

    Weave watched the Jedi slip into the jungle and sipped his caf for a few more minutes, enjoying the peacefulness of the morning. After a moment he looked at the mug that Honi had abandoned and picked it up, brought it to the camp station to set it in the compact steamer that sanitized their dishes. Sometimes I wonder about her....more than I should.

    He glanced back at the trees once more before shaking his head. Speculation is useless, you know that. Besides, there are other things to occupy your time rather than pointless musings. With this thought, he recalled the generators and decided that he was eager to set them working again, so he swallowed the rest of his caf, set the mug with the others, then moved to the Stark Raven to wake the kids and get to work.

    Of course the lads were still asleep in the crew quarters aboard the transport ship. A few minutes and some loud throat clearing later, they were sitting up in their sleeping bags, blinking at him in irritation, Levy included. Ignoring the glowering of five identical faces, Weave smiled at them. “Good morning, guys. Who's ready to work?”

    Levy gave an audible yawn that made the others chuckle. Risky glanced at the elder clone. “Do you want us to help with the generators?”

    Don't worry about that,” Weave replied. “There's more than enough to do. Come on...get ready. We have a busy day ahead of us.” With that he turned and left their room, pausing at Crest's door to rap lightly and rouse his brother, who emerged a moment later. He looked wide awake, and Weave wondered if he'd gotten any sleep at all.

    Is it morning already?” The bald clone's voice was light but Weave could see faint shadows under his eyes.

    He nodded, then thumbed towards their camp. “Caf's made. It's still early, yet, but I want to get a move on before it gets too hot.” Crest nodded as well, then rubbed at his eyes with his palms. “Are you okay?”


    These words elicited a short flare of laughter before Crest replied in a wry tone. “Sure. Why not?” He slapped Weave's shoulder. “Let's get to work.”
     
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  21. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    This planet sounds like bad news :-(
    Also, Honi has a teenager on her hands! Awww! Heh heh heh.
     
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  22. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    @gracesonnet - Heh. I think teenage!Zara is karma for how teenage!Honi must have felt to Kali. ;) Mundali is...not a place I'd want to vacation. Thank you for reading! [face_love]


    *****​
    Chapter Ten: Too Soon To Know
    Mundali.

    Since I'd never heard of it, I spent many hours in the Chu'unthor's vast library garnering what knowledge I could. There were few accounts of the place, mostly due to its distance from the Core – the planet was in the far reaches of the Outer-Rim, with a civilization that had long since fallen into ashes. However, there were mentions of strange temples found in various locations, and rumors that those who once lived on the world were powerful Force-sensitives.

    A group of pilgrims had an idea to settle there, and while I was unable to find records of their accounts, I uncovered mentions of their journey in an archived edition of the HoloNet. From the sound of it, they brought all manner of equipment and supplies with them, and had high hopes to turn Mundali into a home – they were even able to translate a few of the inscriptions that they came across. However, the project was abandoned after only a few years due to a lack of funding.

    This was especially frustrating to read, as I could see no reason that such a thing would have happened, and wondered what it was that had led them to that decision. Where there should have been apprehension in my mind there was only curiosity. The mystery gave me something outward to focus on, at any rate, which was vastly preferable to dwelling on whatever was left of my own existence.

    *

    The first full day on Mundali was – in Crest's mind, anyway – more sweaty than anything else, and he again wished that his family had decided to take up residence in a more temperate location. His only consolation was that no one except Zara seemed to like the extreme heat and humidity any more than he did. Apparently Nautolans liked air that you could practically drink, and the Padawan was especially chipper when she and Honi returned from their meditation session that morning while the others were gathered around the table, drinking caf and discussing the upcoming day's plans.

    Weave was in fine form, as the advent of a new project seemed to give his brother a renewed vigor; by contrast, Crest felt laconic and a little uneasy. He'd nodded to Sita when he'd emerged from the Raven, but she hardly seemed to acknowledge him, and he was starting to wonder if everything had been in his head after all, and if their kiss had simply been the by-product of a bored young woman's desire to experiment. Perhaps she's really moved on and I'm the one who's stuck in the past. It was about two years ago.

    But then he remembered her stricken expression after the rescue and felt ashamed for his selfish musings. She's free and alive, which is the most important thing. I shouldn't worry about anything else. He tried not to sigh as he sipped the caf, seated between Keo and Ares, listening to Weave's plans.

    I want to take a closer look at those generators today,” his brother was saying. Though he was seated as well, Crest noted that his Weave's knee was bouncing in place, as if he literally couldn't hold his excitement in. “Levy, will you help me?” The younger clone nodded, his face eager.

    Traxis, who was on Ares' other side, glanced towards the Wayfarer. “Are the newly-weds still not up yet?”

    Good morning to you as well, Trax.” Everyone turned to see the Jedi and the former captain stepping off of the ship into the morning air, Kalinda smiling brightly at the scarred clone. The couple approached the table and took their seats, and Crest felt himself relax a little bit now that their 'group' was whole once more.

    Stonewall glanced at Traxis. “While Weave deals with the generators, you and I ought to take a look at the buildings, to see if they're in any condition for us to repair with what we have.” He looked at the boys. “Drake, Keo, Finn, Risky...why don't you lads help me and Traxis?”

    I don't have any experience in these matters, I'm afraid, but I'm willing to help if I can,” Ares added, leaning forward. “Unless, of course, you need something smuggled. That I can do.” He gave a crooked grin as Stonewall chuckled.

    Kalinda was smiling as well. “I'd like to take a better look at the temple, maybe the surrounding area. My mother wrote about an ancient script; perhaps I can find examples of it.” She glanced at Honi. “Will you and Zar come with me?”

    As they nodded, Crest's eyes slid to Sita, who was looking down at her hands, folded in her lap, with a strange expression on her face. He swallowed, then took a deep breath and spoke to Kalinda. “You said that there's a garden, right?” She nodded and he noted that Sita looked up at this. “Not that I'm much use around that type of thing, but I'd be willing to pull some weeds or something, if you're willing to show me how it's done.” As he spoke he glanced at Sita and was relieved to see that she looked interested.

    I'm sure there is much work to do,” she said in a quiet voice, her blue eyes flicking to him. “And I will be glad to help, if I can.”

    There was more discussion, of course, but after another half-hour or so the groups split up and made their way to the ruins, each carrying packs of supplies, various tools, and bottles of fresh water. Weave pointed him and Sita towards the flat patch of land that looked to be more of a brush-pile than anything else, though the Arunai woman's pace seemed to increase the closer she came to the area.

    For a little while Crest stood back and watched her pick her way through the briars. “I can clear that away if you like,” he said, indicating the machete he'd brought along.

    She paused, then shook her head. Out in the open sun her white hair gleamed in the light. “No, Crest, but thank you.” She resumed her wanderings; it appeared as though she was searching for something, but he had no clue as to what. Finally he grew bored just standing around, so he lifted the tool and began to hack away at the nearest patch of weeds, watching with satisfaction as the thorny plants fell away from the blade. Even weapons have practical uses, I guess. Though it might be fun for me, I imagine a round of ordo here wouldn't have the desired effect. The thought made him chuckle, and for a while he forgot to be hot or uncomfortable as he worked.

    Eventually he noticed Sita approaching, holding an object in her hand. He paused in his labor as she came up to him, and he saw with relief that she looked pleased with whatever it was. When she thrust out her palm to him and opened it, he glanced down and saw a twisted, ugly bit of tuber that looked like it had died some time ago.

    Seeing his puzzled expression, the former queen of Aruna smiled at him. “It's gorburoot,” she explained, shifting the plant in her palm. “It's native to Ord Mantell and is very hardy...there are many of these in the western section,” she added, nodding to the area. “At one time, this was a thriving garden.”

    That's good to hear,” he replied, sheathing the blade. “May I?” She handed him the tuber and he examined it closely. It looks pretty gross, but I guess that wouldn't be the most tactful thing to say right now. “Looks tasty.” Ugh. Not much better.

    Surprisingly, she laughed. “Gorburoot is a remarkable crop,” she said, taking the tuber back from him and holding it up to get a better look. “It can survive in most climates because it...” she frowned for a moment and he looked at her in alarm.

    What is it?”

    I'm unsure of the word,” she said, raising her eyes to him. “It...comes back. Through drought, through freeze, through monsoons....it always comes back.”

    He smiled. “It's a survivor, then?” She nodded and he glanced around at the field with renewed appreciation. They were quiet for a moment, but while he was thinking over his next words she spoke again.

    I wasn't....violated.” At his look her jaw tightened and her gaze grew distant. “During my imprisonment. Others were, but....” She took a deep breath and shook her head. “The moff was a cruel man, but he had control of his soldiers. However,” she paused again, and Crest felt something dark and dangerous stirring within him that was unlike anything he'd ever experienced.

    Sita...you don't have to...” As he replied, he kept his tone even but soft, though his voice was strange in his ears. She looked at him and he felt his throat catch – she was so beautiful, even tired and dirty and scared – but he was starting to realize that even though he could stand beside her, he was still as far away from this woman as he could be, more so than they had ever been on Aruna, in their old lives.

    But she shook her head again. “Moff Abadi did attempt to...force me to confess to the false allegations of treason. I would not.” The air was still and too warm, but she was trembling as she took another breath and looked around the field. “You know, I never thought I would be starting over again. But here I am.”

    For a moment he couldn't find the right words; finally he nodded once, keeping his eyes on hers. “Here we are.”

    *
    Do you really think they'll want to stay here for a long time?” Ares asked as he and Traxis watched the clone boys make their way ahead of them through the jungle. Even beneath the shade of the trees it was too warm, and Traxis was struck with a desire for the cool air of Rhen Var or even the temp-controlled climate of Coruscant.

    Something about Ares' tone made Traxis understand that he wanted to talk, so the scarred clone cleared his throat and gave a pointed look to the clone boys. “Why don't you guys do some recon around the building? I want to know how much damage there is...if there are any holes in the roof, that kind of thing. Drake, you know where it is, right?”

    They seemed pleased enough to do so, but he wondered how long that would last. Kids are restless, after all. And if they're at all like I was at that age, they won't want to do anything 'boring.' He sighed, then looked back at the Twi'lek, considering the question. “We don't really have anywhere else to go. If Kalinda likes it here, Stonewall will stay with her, as will Honi and Zara. Weave's fixated on the shabla generators already, so I doubt he'll want to go anywhere until he's finished with them. Levy will stay with him, and the other boys will probably want to as well, for now. Crest...” He frowned and managed a casual shrug. “He'll probably stay with Stonewall and Weave. I don't know about the former queen.”

    Ares nodded, twining his hands and squinting up at the bright patches of sky they could make out through the canopy as they walked. “And Traxis?”

    It depends, I suppose.” Traxis' brows knitted. “On a few things.” He didn't want to say anything else, but Ares looked at him.

    On what?”

    This made Trax frown, though he was silent for a moment. Finally he sighed. “On you.” For a moment it was so silent, he thought that he could make out at least seven different types of birdsong, most of which were nearby. Ares did not respond for a long few minutes, and Traxis found that he was starting to get impatient.

    Finally, the coral-skinned Twi'lek nodded once, slowly. “Ah. Well...” He frowned at his hands. “I have never pretended to be other than what I am, Traxis. I love the journey more than the destination, I think. I always have.” He looked over at the clone beside him. “But I also...” The words trailed off and he looked away again. Then he did something completely unexpected: he took a deep breath and stopped. For a moment they were alone, save for the noises of life all around them.

    Trax felt that familiar thudding of his heart that usually indicated something bad was about to happen. “But what?”

    It's...” Ares exhaled in frustration, as if the words just wouldn't come.

    But I can guess what he's about to say. I should save him the trouble. “You don't want to stay here, do you?” He nodded to himself at Ares' pained expression. “Well, I won't hold you back. Because I think...that is, I'm not sure I could ever – would ever – leave my family.” The truth of the words had not been real until he'd said them, and he felt a pang of remorse at the look in Ares' eyes once they left his mouth. He sighed and ran a hand through his hair, but further words did not come to him. The Mundali birds were suddenly very loud. Traxis considered taking out a few of them with his rifle, but decided against it.

    Ares nodded, otherwise he was still. Then he sighed again and frowned. “Well, I'm sorry to hear that. Because I think...I....” He shook his head, lekku swaying, and abruptly turned to keep along the path. “Never mind. We should go. There's much to be done.”

    Right.” Traxis followed in Ares' wake and wondered why he felt so kriffing horrible.

    *

    Just a dream.

    Stonewall hated those words, as he'd had too many haunting dreams in his life, but he knew that Kali wouldn't hold any stock in her nightmare, so he tried not to let it bother him. So he resolved to just focus on the task at hand, which looked to be rather daunting from where he was standing. Crest and Sita had already followed Weave and Levy away; Traxis, Ares and the lads had already headed for the main collection of buildings, while Honi and Zara had said that they were going to look over the large temple.

    Kali and Stone had lingered in camp for a little while, but were finally on their way; soon they were stepping out of the tree-line and approaching the ruins.

    Wow.” He shaded his eyes from the morning sun and stared at the massive structure. “You weren't kidding.”

    She shook her head. “It's incredible, isn't it? The view from the top is amazing as well.” There was a pause and he gave her a questioning look. After a moment she sighed. “It's a little strange, being here.”

    What do you mean?” He was aware of the heat that was thick and nearly buzzing in his ears, but also of his wife, and the fact that she seemed uneasy.

    This is where I was conceived,” she said after a moment. “I have a connection to it, in a way.” She lifted her hands and flexed her fingers, studying them idly. He brushed her mind with his own and realized that she was still thinking over her dream, which bothered him more than he wanted to admit. But before he could say anything to her, Kali smiled at him. “It was a strange dream, but it wasn't real. Besides, it's over now.”

    I want to believe you, you know.” He tried to keep his tone light, but she knew him too well to be fooled.

    You worry too much.” Beyond them, he could see Honi, standing with her arms crossed, her gaze fixed on the couple and her foot tapping in the grass. Zara was examining the temple stairs, seemingly lost in her own thoughts. Kalinda smiled at Stonewall again, leaning up to kiss his cheek. “I guess I should get going before Honi drags me away by force. Have fun.”

    Before he answered, he took her hand and gave her a kiss. “Be safe. And rest that knee every hour.” Rolling her eyes, Kali turned to make her way towards her former apprentice and Zara, both of whom straightened at her approach; Stonewall watched them step into the jungle, noting that his wife's gait was still uneven. Once they had vanished within the trees, he made his way to where his brothers had gone.

    The building was single-story, and appeared a bit more modern than the others; again, he wondered at the planet's history, and while he approached he felt a thrill of excitement. It could work...the place needs a lot of repairs, but I think we can manage it.

    There was a section of stairs that led to a wide porch at the building's entrance, which seemed to be in decent shape. Once he stepped inside, he noted that the interior held remnants of insulated panels that had been withered away with time; there were also networks of pipes and vents, laid bare by the passage of years, but evidence of the fact that – at one point – this had been an inhabited building. Traxis, Ares and the boys came out of a dark corridor to meet him in the first room, which was cooler than the outside. Perhaps some of that insulation is still good, Stonewall thought.

    You see it too, don't you?” The scarred clone spread his hand to indicate the large space. “I don't think it's something we can't handle. It'll be a lot of kriffing work, but....”

    We can do it,” Stonewall finished with a nod as he glanced around: there were copious cobwebs, piles of substances that he didn't want to think too hard about, and other assorted indications that nature was trying to reclaim the structure. “I guess the first order of business is to clean.”

    His brother grinned at the boys. “Good thing we have some volunteers, right lads?”

    Can't we help you fix the walls or whatever?” Drake asked, glancing at the room with a grimace.

    Traxis chuckled. “All in good time, adi'ka. For now, why don't you guys start clearing out these front rooms?” As the boys reluctantly began to grab the cleaning supplies that had been brought, Trax shot Stonewall a knowing look.

    And how can I make myself useful?” Ares' voice was quiet.

    Stonewall watched his brother tense, then shake his head. “You can help them, I guess. You don't mind cleaning, right?”

    The Twi'lek shook his head and looked as though he wanted to say something, but then turned away to follow the lads. When he'd gone, Stonewall gave his brother a strange look. “Everything okay?”

    Rather than answer, Traxis pointed to a section of nearby wall. “This will have to be taken out entirely, I think. But a lot of the rest looks salvageable.”

    Trax...”

    His brother sighed. “Just...look, it's not....”

    Stonewall nodded and looked at the wall as well. “Okay. You're right...I guess we should start demolishing this, then?” Using the Force, he brought a mallet up to his grip and handed it to his brother, who gave a curt nod before he took the tool and hefted it above his head.

    Several hours later they'd managed to remove several sections of inner wall that were too damaged to repair, creating a rather impressive space that Stonewall was thinking could be used as a common-room of a sort. At one point the boys returned and reported that there appeared to be 'fresher rooms scattered throughout the place as well, which he knew would please Kali.

    Eventually he felt the urge to explore, so he left Trax at the front – venting his frustrations on the unfortunate structure – and meandered through the warren of rooms. The farther in he journeyed, the better condition the place seemed to be, and he figured it was due to the proximity away from the front, which was where most of the damage had occurred.

    With the the others were in another section the place was quiet; despite the presence of thick, old-style glass windows – which were covered in something unpleasant – it was dark as well, and he almost felt as though he was inside a cave. Finally he came to the rear of the building, where he paused. This is interesting...almost like a suite of rooms, kind of separate from the others. There was a larger space at the front, with several smaller rooms to the sides, what looked to be two 'freshers and something that he thought was a kitchenette at one point, despite the presence of some type of creature's nests at intervals throughout.

    The thought struck him that he and Kali had never had a space of their own. They'd passed many hours in their shared cabin aboard the Wayfarer, of course, and he could recall spending the night a few times at her room in the Jedi Temple on Coruscant, but in both places they had always been mindful of the presence of others. Not that my brothers ever complained, but it must have been awkward at times. And I have to admit, I would have preferred more privacy. He looked around again, with a more critical eye. It would take so much work, but he knew what he was going to do.

    And he smiled.

    *
    A little earlier...

    It was during her morning meditation with her master that Zara realized that there was a body of water close by. Honi had lead them to a secluded patch of woods where they were resting their backs against thick trees with smooth, flowing bark; Zara sank into meditation easily, allowing the energies of the planet to ripple around her. Birds were singing high and sweet in the morning air, and when she inhaled she could detect the cool scent of water, which filled her with an urge to swim again. After what felt like hours, Zara looked at her master.

    I think there's a lake or something nearby.” Though she tried, she was unable to keep the longing from her voice.

    Honi looked thoughtful but did not reply for several moments as she cast her own awareness out. Finally she shook her head. “I can't tell. But you're much more attuned to water than I am.”

    Lekku twitching in anxiousness, Zara sat up. “Can we look for it? Please?”

    Later, perhaps. After we go back to the ruins.” Honi sighed at Zara's expression and lifted her eyes to the canopy above their heads. “I'm sure that Kalinda will want to explore it, anyway.”

    She had been right, of course. After they met the dark-haired Jedi at the large temple and were several hours into their explorations of the surrounding jungle, Zara mentioned her finding. “From what I can tell, it's not too far from here,” she added, indicating a direction; they had not wandered too far afield from the ruins, but had taken a slow, circuitous route through the area. Everyone seemed game enough, so they set off.

    Can you really feel the water nearby?” Kalinda asked as they moved through the underbrush, pausing to push aside a thick patch of ferns using the Force, allowing Zara and Honi to step through. It was quiet here, and Zara thought that this section of the jungle felt older than the rest..almost heavy.

    It's a very clear feeling,” she replied, inhaling deeply. The smell was getting stronger, but she could also feel the water, clear and cool, a sensation that drew her inexorably to it. “Can't you tell?”

    Kalinda frowned and then shook her head. “Maybe if I meditated for a while – I've done so in the past – but not as well as you.” She smiled at the Nautolan girl. “That's a handy skill to have. Perhaps we should focus more of your training on the Living Force.”

    This was an unexpected thing to hear, and Zara couldn't help the broad grin that came to her face. “That would be wonderful.”

    I think that's a good idea,” Honi added. She'd been unusually quiet, walking behind the others; Zara could feel that her master's attention was not entirely on their current mission. “Zara's quite gifted with the Living Force, particularly when water is involved.”

    It doesn't feel that way,” the Padawan admitted, glancing around her. “I can heal okay – I can even manage morichro a little bit – but I can't seem to get my lightsaber together.” She had tried on their journey, but admittedly had been distracted by something. Or someone, she thought, Drake's face coming to her mind.

    Kalinda shook her head. “Very often a Jedi is talented in one aspect of the Force, but has to work harder with others. It's wise to know one's strengths as well as weaknesses, after all.” She paused and inhaled. “I think I can smell fresh water, now.”

    Mimicking the elder Jedi, Zara shut her eyes and reached out with the Force. “There,” she pointed towards the east. “It's over there.” Nodding, the others turned and followed her directions, and she felt irrationally pleased when they crested a hill and she spotted a blue tinge in the trees below, evidence that the Force had been truthful with her. I'm starting to feel more and more like a 'proper' Jedi. Maybe I'm not so hopeless, after all.

    The surrounding area seemed to be a bowl-shaped dip in the jungle, and she could tell that the source of the water was at the bottom. As they were about to make their way into the basin, Kalinda's comlink chirruped; they all paused while the dark-haired Jedi answered. “Weave? Everything okay?”

    Sort of,” the clone replied, his tone distracted. “But we could use someone's help, actually. Someone with the Force.” There was a pause, then the sound of some kind of heavy scraping. “We're trying to clear the entrance, but things would be easier with a Jedi. I hate to disturb any of you, but Stonewall's elbow-deep in the ruins right now...”

    Zara could sense Kalinda's indecision as she glanced at the others, but it was Honi who answered, leaning forward to speak in Kali's comm. “I can help you.”

    There was a pause before Weave spoke. “Tallis? Are you sure?”

    Her master nodded, then flushed as if remembering that the clone couldn't see her over the voice-only transmission. Once she replied in the affirmative again and the transmission ended, she gave a pointed look at Kalinda. “All I ask is that you keep an eye on my Padawan.” She lifted a brow and Zara got the sense that there was more to the exchange than she herself was aware of. But Kalinda only nodded.

    After Honi left, the dark-haired Jedi smiled at her. “Ready?”


    The feel of water was pulling Zara along, surely as any tether. “And then some.”
     
    gracesonnet likes this.
  23. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    W00t, swimming!
    (I'm getting antsy for spring weather. We had a few 70-degree days last week and then the temps went right back down to 40-50 overnight).
     
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  24. laloga

    laloga Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    Jul 28, 2011
    @gracesonnet - You're awesome. Thank you, thank you, thank you for reading! [face_love] And yes, swimming is the BEST. I'm in FL, so we get a bit more swimming weather than other places. ;)


    FYI: there's some minor time-shifting that happens in this chapter and the next.

    *****
    Chapter Eleven: Springs And Other Strangeness

    To prevent dangerous amounts of thinking, I threw myself into research. Despite its mysteries, Mundali seems to be a normal enough world, consisting of vast stretches of jungle and one large ocean that spans well over half the planet, with swathes of ice at its poles. By all accounts it was predominately a hot, humid place – at least the parts that were explored – and I wondered at the fact, as I've never experienced anything like that. My family's home was in the mountains, dry and cool; Coruscant is climate-controlled.

    I can't remember the exact moment that the change occurred within me, only that it did.

    One day I realized that for all of the “living” I thought I'd done, I haven't seen much of the galaxy, and the understanding really hit me that I never would. For a few days I was stricken with unbearable self-pity, the familiar anger swift on its heels, but I managed to move past it. My eyes fell on the holographic image of the planet that I'd managed to cobble together from various bits of data and I thought, I must see this place, just once, before I die.

    *

    Even though she'd said that she would come, Weave still felt a thrill of anxiety when he saw Honi striding through the ruins to meet him, so he only nodded to her as Levy waved. They were at the entrance to the building with the generators, attempting to clear a path where they could, but there were some stones that were just too large to move by hand, thus the need for a Force-wielder.

    As she approached, he noted that she was looking at the rocks with mild interest. “We tried to move the smaller ones out of the way, but....” He trailed off as she lifted her palms and the nearest boulder began to shudder before rising slowly in the air and hovering to the tree-line, where she set it down with care before moving her attention to the next one. And so on.

    Levy gaped at her and Weave wanted to mirror the expression. I should be used to it by now. Jedi can do all kinds of things....I've seen Kalinda do something similar before. But he knew the dark-haired Jedi, understood her strengths and her limits. Honi, however, was something of a mystery. He'd never seen her use the Force except to heal or wield her lightsaber, yet she seemed perfectly comfortable doing a task that he thought impossible for himself.

    With her arms raised he noted that, though she was slender, she had a strong physique; she was a bit taller than Kalinda, but her frame was more slight; she was lean, but not lanky. Even drawn in concentration, her face was angular, albeit with high, rounded cheeks. Freckles were sprinkled across her nose and her skin was ivory-pale, much more so than his own. Her eyes...

    Stop it, stop it right now, he chided himself as yet another boulder was moved. She's a colleague...nothing more. You have work to do, soldier. No distractions and no false hopes. So he nodded to her and murmured some words of gratitude, as now he could make his way inside with ease. Naturally Levy had rushed ahead of him to the generators, and Weave felt a flare of worry that the boy would harm himself somehow, so he made to hurry after him.

    Is that all you needed from me?”

    He turned and saw that the Jedi's arms were crossed and she was looking a bit annoyed, so he cleared his throat. “Well...yes, actually. Unless you want to help us with the generators. At least, I think they're generators. They have the basic shape, some of the usual components....”

    I'd like to help,” she said, interrupting him. “But I should warn you...I have even less patience for machines than I do with living creatures.” Her face was deadpan and her voice was low and serious; then the edges of her mouth lifted in a tiny smile to show that she was joking.

    Despite the fact that his heart-rate had increased a bit, Weave smiled back. “I'll take what I can get, thanks.” There were a few moments of awkward silence between them before he heard an audible sigh from Levy's direction. The Jedi lifted her brow and he felt his ears redden. “I guess we should...”

    Lead the way.” He may have been mistaken, but he thought that her voice sounded strange. Several minutes later his attention had shifted to the generators; he spent several minutes investigating them, using both his implant and his senses to determine how they operated, the extent of the damage, and anything else that might prove useful. Levy had taken to crawling underneath the middle one, which was slightly lifted on a platform that Weave figured was a way to prevent excessive heat from collecting beneath the device. Scans with his own implant revealed that there was little true damage to the generators besides a few hairline cracks along the outer casing, which he figured could be repaired easily enough.

    At one point he remembered the Jedi; looking around, he realized that she was crouched beside the nearest generator, right hand extended, palm resting along the side. Her eyes were closed and he figured that she was using the Force again. He watched her for a moment, then adjusted his implant to the infrared spectrum and gave a sharp inhale at what he saw.

    For some time, all he could do was stare at her, transfixed.

    In this spectrum, most Humans were a mixture of colors: deeper reds and oranges around their hearts with their limbs being a combination of cool blues and greens. Honi's body told him that something was happening, but he had no way to describe it: there was a core of red and orange, as normal, but it spiraled out, reaching through her arm to her hand, which was pressed along the side of the generator. The rest of her was a rich blue, as if pushing all of its energy towards her palm, which was glowing crimson. Is that what the Force looks like, or is it simply her body reacting to it? I have no idea...it never occurred to me to watch a Force-user like this.

    After a moment her eyes opened and she turned to him; he noted the saffron bloom of her cheeks, then the odd feeling overcame him that he was intruding on something private or sacred, so he shut down the spectrum and returned his vision to normal. “I'm sorry,” he said as she straightened, giving him an unreadable look. “I was just...I've never seen anything like that.” He paused. “What were you doing, if I may ask?”

    Behind him, he could hear Levy detaching the generator cover, but most of his attention was now on the woman who stood before him, blinking as if emerging from a dark room into the sun. “Just looking,” she said after a moment. “Getting a sense of what you will be dealing with.”

    You can sense machinery?” He tried to keep the skepticism out of his tone. Kalinda was never able to sense droids. Can't see how this is much different.

    She shook her head, the bits of hair that had come loose from the pins swayed gently with the motion. “I can only attune to the energies of sentient beings,” she replied. “But sometimes, if I focus, I can sense imprints of who or what has come before to a non-sentient item.”

    Weave approached her and looked from the generator to the Jedi. “Imprints?”

    The Force is essentially a vast energy-field,” she explained, folding her hands before her, her eyes resting on the generator as well. “It permeates all things, living or otherwise, but is strongest with living creatures. The strongest of those – Force-sensitives, we call them – often leave a...remnant of that energy behind, even after their lives have ended. It's like...” She frowned and looked at him, and he got the sense that she was trying to find the right words.

    But he thought he knew. “Like a fingerprint, left behind after you touch something?”

    Exactly,” she said with a rare, broad smile. “It's also thought of as an aura, or a signature...anything that relates to the energy that a being exudes. Much research has been done on the subject, though no one is really certain why such a thing is. But the Force is a mystery, even to those who spend their lives attempting to study it.”

    It was an intriguing, if strange idea, and he considered her words for a moment before glancing her way again. “I noticed that all of your energy seemed to be moving through your hand...was that the Force?” She looked perplexed and he explained what he'd seen.

    I think your implant showed you how the Force affected my body,” she replied, her cheeks flushing again as she looked at her hands. “The Force itself is not something that anyone can 'see,' really.”

    Before he could reply to this, a sudden clanging noise echoed in the room and Weave whirled around to make sure that Levy was unharmed. “Lev?”

    There was a sigh, then he saw the clone boy's modified hand reach out from beneath the generator, giving him the 'thumbs-up.' Relieved, Weave glanced back at the Jedi, who looked amused. “That's...” He frowned. “I don't know. It's hard for me to trust something that I can't explain, or even understand.” He gave her a sideways glance, hoping that he had not offended her.

    But Honi only nodded. “I know what you mean. I suppose for me it comes down to trust. I trust the Force, as I trust myself. It's an odd combination of belief and knowledge,” she added, shaking her head and looking towards the open doorway, beyond which Weave could make out a graying sky.

    He took a step closer to her, attempting to disguise the fact by studying the generator. “I'm still not sure I understand,” he said, feeling foolish even as the words left him. “It's such a strange concept. I like to know, beyond a shadow of a doubt. To look at something and be able to say 'this is so because of this, this, and that.' The Force...” He shook his head. “I know it's there. I've seen Kalinda use it, and Stonewall. I've seen you heal with it, but...”

    But it doesn't feel real to you because you have no way to quantify or measure it.” The light filtering in from the upper-level windows dimmed, then brightened again, which caused the contours of her face to shift. Weave nodded and she returned the gesture. “I understand. But I can feel it in my blood.” Honi lifted her hands and held them out before her, studying them with knitted brows. “It's here, within me. Always. And I trust myself and my own mind, so I trust the Force. I can't explain it any better than that, Weave.”

    When she looked his way again, the light caught her hair and set it afire in such a way that any further speech escaped him.

    *

    When the reached the source of the water, it was a place unlike anything Kali had ever seen: a spring bubbling up from some hidden up-well in the ground below. There was no beach, just a smatter of pale sand and huge chunks of perforated limestone that rested at the edges of the water, which was several stunning shades of turquoise. Standing at the lip of ground overlooking the spring, Kali could see the sand below the water-level, bone-pale. The area was larger than it had appeared from the ridge, perhaps thirty meters in diameter, surrounded by trees and brush, and in the center the color of the spring changed from light turquoise to a dark, rich blue, indicating a massive depth.

    It was one of the most beautiful places that she'd ever seen, and for a moment Kalinda stood transfixed, sheltered by the jungle canopy. My mother described this planet in detail, but it's still nothing like I imagined. It's so much more. She glanced at Zara, who seemed about as eager as anyone could get to dive in. “Before you leap, let's take a look around, okay?”

    The Padawan flushed a deep blue and nodded; Kali tried not to chuckle at the embarrassment emanating from the girl. “It will be quicker if we each take a side, won't it?”

    Sounds good. You go right and I'll meet you on the other side.” Kali made to turn, then paused at Zara's expression. “Is everything okay?”

    Sort of....” There was a very deliberate pause and Zara seemed to pretend to study the water before she looked back at Kalinda. At the Jedi's raised brow, the Padawan sighed. “It's just...you're married.”

    It was difficult to fight back her smile at the incongruity of the comment, but Kali managed. “I am. I'm also a Jedi. Is that what's troubling you?” She has been rather interested in my relationship with Stone; more so than a normal teenager would be.

    Zara frowned but nodded. “How...how can you do your duty and still...love him?” The girl's gaze on her was earnest and her voice was quiet.

    I spent most of my life either falling in love or fighting it,” Kali replied after a moment to think over the question. “Many times it brought me sorrow, and I understand why the Council always forbade attachment; when my father was killed, for example, the pain of it nearly broke me. I was angry, frightened, and bitterly sad...I could very easily have turned to the Dark Side.” Once, a long time ago, the memory of Jonas' death when she was a teenager would have caused her throat to tighten with grief, but now Kali only felt a sting of remorse.

    But now...?”

    This made Kali think of Stonewall, and she smiled. “He's shown me, more so than anyone else, I think, what it means to truly love someone, and to allow yourself to love. It's hard, sometimes. Especially during the war...there were many times when I was afraid that I'd lose him, and he felt the same way about me. But we were both committed to our duties. Now...” She trailed off and thought of that night on Basrah, the night she had proposed to the former captain. “Now it finally feels right. I don't regret anything, Zar. It wasn't an easy road, and it took me a long time to get here, but I've always been the type of person who has to make my own way. ”

    Zara was quiet for a long time, her eyes on the water though Kali could see that she was looking inward, reflecting. Finally she nodded and took a breath. “So, what are we looking for?”

    What indeed? “I'm not sure,” Kali replied. “Anything unusual, I suppose. It's...odd here, sometimes, isn't it? I just want to be careful.” Somewhere, somehow, Stone knows I just said that, and is very pleased with me.

    The Nautolan girl sighed and nodded; soon they had split up and were circling the perimeter of the spring. Save for the surrounding hum of cicadas and the occasional creak of slender trees swaying in the wind, it was quiet. While she walked, Kalinda accessed the Force to determine for herself whether or not danger was nearby, in the form of predators or otherwise, and for several minutes everything was calm. But, after she was about as far away from Zara as possible, the Force suddenly felt strange, almost muddied; Kalinda frowned and reached into the well of energy that she could always find within her.

    That was when it happened.

    Suddenly, it was as if she was muted, as if her edges had been sanded down, and she found that she couldn't focus or concentrate on anything. It was like someone had peeled back the top-most layers of her attention, leaving her dull and disoriented. She turned to find Zara, but could only make out a hint of blue in the trees far beyond her position, and she realized that her vision seemed cloudy.

    Zar?” Kalinda called to the Padawan, but the girl made no sign that she'd noticed anything unusual as she continued to pace around the basin, checking for danger. It's here, Kali thought. Danger is here. Something's wrong. Her heart should have been racing but there was nothing: no flood of adrenaline in her veins that accompanied such an acute sense of danger, nor the catch of fear in her throat.

    Nothing.

    As if she didn't exist.

    Then she heard the strange-but-familiar voice from her dream again, closer. “Kalinda...you must leave this place at once. It's not safe for you, because of me. Please, I'm begging you.”

    Who are you?” Her own voice was hushed, like a whisper even though she knew she was probably shouting. It can't be who I think. It's impossible.

    The voice replied. “Someone who loves you.”

    Out of the corner of her eye she could see Zara turning at last, a ripple of confusion emanating from her; Kali tried to shout, but her voice wouldn't work, and that was the last thing that she remembered.

    *

    Honi resisted the impulse to curse when she dropped the hydrospanner a third time. Resisting the impulse to curse out loud, she cast a surreptitious glance at Weave and Levy, both of whom were engrossed in one of the devices that they'd taken apart, casting wires all across the ground. The generators were in better shape than Weave had initially reckoned, but he'd said that it would still take much work to get them up and running again. The clones were in the process of repairing the first one, each of them laid on their backs, facing the interior of the cylinder-shaped device, which apparently could only be accessed via a port on the bottom.

    She was in charge of handing them whatever tools they needed. It wasn't a complicated job, but she realized that she was ill-suited for much else when it came to things of this nature, as the generators were a moray of wires and nodules that she was unfamiliar with. Computer systems, fine. Starship navigation, great. Even basic security overrides, I can handle. But this is somewhat out of my league.

    Everything okay out there?” Weave's voice was muffled from the interior of the generator, amidst a sound of clanging.

    Honi frowned as she placed the hydrospanner down in the box with his other tools. “Very well, thank you. I'm just glad that I can be of service.”

    Apparently she did an inadequate job of keeping the sarcasm out of her tone, as he chuckled, the sound echoing within the chamber. “Well, if you're bored....”

    I'm fine,” she replied in a cool voice. “Perfect.”

    I was going to say that we're about done, just have to....no, Levy. This one goes there, that one goes...you've got it.” There was a moment of silence before the thing began to hum, lights appearing on its sides. The clones edged out and Weave studied the generator with appreciation, twisting up from his place on the ground. “It's coming together faster than I expected,” he said as he dusted off his hands.

    You got it working already?” Honi asked, looking at the device with astonishment while the clone merely shrugged.

    One out of three. Not bad, I guess.” Weave pulled up the hem of his shirt to blot the sweat off of his face, and Honi couldn't help but catch sight of his muscled chest; of course she felt her face grow hot and she looked away.

    No. This may be a new era, but I doubt that this is the direction my life needs to take. All that matters is training Zara and doing my duty as a Healer and a Jedi. So she only nodded and pretended to examine the large room. “Now all you need to do is figure out a decent cooling system and this place might be tolerable.”

    Weave's laughter was bright. “Right, Tallis. I'll get on that in a moment.” He gave her an easy grin and she tried to smile in return, but she thought that her face felt awkward and stiff.

    However, before she could respond, she caught a disturbance in the Force. It felt like Zara, frightened about something, and she thought that she caught a trace of Stonewall's agitation as well. Something's wrong, she thought as she stiffened and looked to the doorway. It's Kalinda...

    Tallis?” Weave had approached her; he put a warm hand on her shoulder. “What is it?”

    The touch broke her reverie and she shook her head. “I have to go.” Casting him a last look, she gathered the Force around her and sprang for the entrance, nearly knocking over an incoming Drake as she did so. Outside, Stonewall was racing across the grass and she could sense his agitation; they fell in step together but said nothing as they crossed the open area and leaped into the jungle.

    *

    As Zara stepped through the forest, surrounded by humidity and the fresh smell of the water, the Padawan decided once and for all that she really did like Mundali. It's just so beautiful and full of life. She inhaled and could almost taste the spring; it was difficult to keep from leaping in, but she knew that Kalinda was right and that it was wiser to ensure that their surroundings were safe. It is a little strange here as well. She's right about that, too. The Force was strong here, very strong, and Zara could practically feel her veins humming with the energy that permeated the place.

    But even those thoughts fled from her mind after a moment, replaced with a recognizable face that was still unique in her mind. Kalinda is able to do her duty and be in love at the same time, she thought as she paused to examine a patch of purple lichen against a fallen tree-trunk. So does that mean the Code is wrong? I suppose it must, especially if Master Altis is still considered a Jedi, and he was married. Perhaps there is a way to love someone and be a Jedi. The thought made her heart beat a little faster, Drake's face at the leading edge of her thoughts, and she wished that he were with her so she could speak to him.

    Honi won't be pleased, I guess, but she can't really argue the fact. Besides, she gets so flustered around Weave...it's almost like she likes him. Her master's attention often turned to the clone with the implant, and the fact was not lost on Zara. She can't tell me one thing and do another. I don't know much, but I do know that.

    When Zara reached the widest edge of the spring's perimeter, something tugged at her mind and she turned just in time to see Kalinda stagger forward, then collapse to the ground in what appeared to be a dead faint. At that moment Zara's world grew very small and sharp; she made her next decision in an instant and her legs broke into a run almost of their own volition, hurtling her towards the spring.

    Even as she leaped as far as she could over the water, she sent out a frantic call through the Force to Honi, Stonewall, or anyone else who could help. Zara landed with an ungraceful splash but she was heedless of the fact as she plummeted through the water as quickly as she was able.

    Honi! Master...something's wrong with Kalinda! Stonewall? Anyone?

    At first there was no answer and Zara felt terror pierce her as she swam, the emotion overriding any sense of pleasure she would have normally gotten from the activity. Then she realized that she was panicking, so she forced herself to relax and to put her energy into getting to Kalinda as quickly as possible, arcing her body through the water and giving a few strong kicks with her legs. Master Tallis?

    Zara? It was Stonewall, sounding perplexed but anxious, and in any other circumstance she would have delighted at the fact that she could speak to another Force-user in such a manner.

    She had reached the other side within seconds. Zara clambered out of the water and over the chunks of limestone that rested along the edge of the spring and rushed to the dark-haired woman who was laying as still as death. Kalinda's sick or something...she just passed out...

    Don't worry. I'm coming. His tone was calm, but the undercurrent of agitation was almost palpable.

    Finally she was at Kalinda's side; Zara went through the typical motions of checking the pulse, breathing rate, pallor...all looked normal. She seems like she's asleep. Thanks to Honi's teaching and her time aboard the Chu'unthor, working in the infirmary, Zara was able to reach out through the Force to extend her awareness along the lines of bone and cartilage, the webbing of muscle tissue, the lacy network of blood vessels and nerves, to get some idea of what had happened to the Jedi. Her own breathing slackened as her concentration increased and she sank further into a trance, entirely consumed with the Force, lost in her search for some indication of wrong.

    For a long time, she found nothing.

    Minutes ticked by, then she sensed Honi and Stonewall approaching, the Force gathered to them as if they were riding an ocean wave. The Padawan felt a stab of relief, and made to break her focus, to allow her master to take over. But just as she was about to do so, something caught her attention; it was small, so much so that she should have discounted it, but in her determination she did not miss the tiny spark of something. After a moment, Zara opened her eyes and sat back on her heels, blinking a few times as her vision adjusted to the light; she was dimly aware of the others crouching around her.

    What is it?” Honi asked, breathless, even as Stonewall knelt beside his wife, lifting her shoulders and saying her name again and again.

    Zara blinked again and felt a strange mixture of joy and fear overtake her. “I think she's pregnant.”

    At this, both Stonewall and Honi stared at her in shock. Finally Stonewall shook his head. “That's not possible, Zara.” His voice was very soft and dangerous.

    I could be wrong,” Zara replied with a shrug that made her lekku shift, small beads of water pattering to the ground with the motion. “Master, will you try?”

    Honi, who had been looking from one to the other, frowned and placed her own hands over Kalinda's abdomen. At first she looked vaguely confused, then, as Zara felt her awareness extend, her expression grew more astonished, and her cheeks flushed. When her eyes opened she gave Zara a look filled with pride. “Good work, Padawan. I'm impressed.”

    So it's true?” Stonewall's face had gone pale and Honi nodded. “How far along...?”

    A few weeks at most,” Honi replied, her tone indicating that she took no notice of the way that Stonewall's breath hitched. “It's still very early. I'm amazed that Zara noticed it at all. Strange,” she added in a thoughtful voice. “I always thought that a Force-user would be aware of the moment of conception. But it's only a theory, after all. I've never known any Jedi who conceived a child.”

    Stonewall was clutching his wife as if he was literally the only thing holding her together. “Does it have to do with why she won't wake up?” Even as he said the words he closed his eyes, and Zara could feel him reaching for Kalinda through the Force.

    Honi and Zara exchanged worried looks. “I'm not sure,” the red-haired Jedi replied as Zara put a hand on the unconscious Jedi's arm. “I'll keep trying to reach her.”

    But Stonewall was on his feet, Kalinda in his arms. “No. Let's get back to the camp. Weave's going to meet us there...” Zara thought he was going to say something else, but his voice broke off; rather than continue, he turned and strode away through the jungle.
     
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  25. gracesonnet

    gracesonnet Jedi Knight star 2

    Registered:
    May 20, 2014
    Squeeeeeeee! And also, uh oh! It's like, 85 degrees and humid here so I'm very jealous of this pond that Zara got swim in.
     
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