Saga In The Shadows Book 1: Emergence Of The Jedi *Updated 12/31/2012

Title: In The Shadows Book 1: Emergence Of The Jedi
Author: jacen200015
Timeline: AU 32 BSW4
Disclaimer: Star Wars belongs to George Lucas and so do all his characters. Any characters created by Jude Watson and Dave Wolverton belong to them + any characters I created belong to me.
I am making no money off this and I hope you enjoy this exciting adventure.
Characters: Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, Xanatos, Bruck, Garen, Anakin, ect
Notes: This is a rewrite of my original story "Jedi Uprising". I hope you all enjoy and please read and review.

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Prologue

“The time will come young one, when the ultimate evil will emerge once again.”

The child frowned, looking up curiously at his mentor. “Aren’t the Sith the evil ones?”

“Evil yes, but they are not the embodiment of evil. Although twisted, they are lost souls that want to be found, even if they don’t realize it yet. The Force can be used for good or evil, but it is only a gift, not the source of good and evil.”

The child looked down on his shirtsleeve and saw a small black beetle crawling up the rough fabric. “I don’t understand.” He looked back up to his instructor’s eyes.

“In time you will.”

The child gently picked the beetle off his sleeve and held it in the palm of his hand. “If there is an ultimate evil then is there an ultimate good?”

His instructor looked up into the gray stained sky and a light breeze swept up his graying hair. “That will be today’s lesson.”

Chapter 1

Obi-Wan entered the hanger and saw that the ship he would be boarding already had its ramp lowered and the engines were already warming up. Pattering of small feet sounded behind him, and with a grin, he turned around, scooped up the child, and gave him a hug.

“I want to go with you daddy.” Blue eyes looked into grayish blue, silently pleading.

Obi-Wan shook his head and kissed the top of the boy’s short copper hair. “This mission is not intended for seven year olds. Besides, I shouldn’t be gone for very long.” He set him back down on the floor and the two walked hand in hand toward the ship.

Down the ramp of the ship strode a dark haired man with a young girl riding on his back. “The ship is all ready to go, Obi-Wan. Have you seen Master Jinn?”

“He’s a few corridors back talking with Master Tahl, his daughter, and son-in-law.”

“Probably giving him tips for the mission. Honestly, Obi-Wan, one would think this mission is going to be extremely complicated.” He helped the girl slide off his back and then rolled his shoulders.

Obi-Wan cocked an eyebrow at him, “Not complicated? You might be eating your words later, Xanatos.”

“Perhaps.” He looked down at the girl and gave her a hug. “You should get to bed now, Raven. Why don’t you walk back with Kenshin.”

Raven scrunched up her face, “He has cooties.”

The men chuckled and Kenshin glared at Raven.

“Well I don’t want to walk with you either!” Kenshin retorted and looked imploringly up at his dad. “Can I go with you next time?”

“When you’re older. Now, Bruck will look after you while I’m gone. Don’t give him any trouble.”

Kenshin crossed his arms and scowled. “I’m not a troublemaker.”

“So you say.” Said a new voice behind them. “Really, I don’t see why you dislike me so much.”

Obi-Wan turned to look at the speaker. “Because he sees you more than he sees me.” /How are the plans coming for the Tatooine mission?/

Bruck shrugged his shoulders. “I can’t blame him for that.” /The Council is hard to convince. They might be on to us./

Obi-Wan’s cheek twitched but his face remained passive. “Time goes by quickly. I shall request some down time after this mission.”

Kenshin’s face split into a grin and he hugged his dad. “Really?”

Obi-Wan smiled and ruffled Kenshin’s hair. “Really. Now, get off to bed, you have classes in the morning.”

“Yes, dad.” Kenshin hugged his dad one last time and headed out of the hanger, walking past Xanatos and Raven who were chatting with Master Tahl.

Bruck and Obi-Wan walked a couple of feet away from the ship and continued their conversation away from the others.

“If anything goes wrong, contact me on the Orcin secure link. Do not do anything without my authorization!”

Bruck nodded his head. “Understood. May the Force be with you all on your mission.”

Obi-Wan nodded his head and then headed for the ship. As he boarded the ship with Xanatos and his Master, Qui-Gon Jinn, he suddenly had the feeling that he would not be back for a long time.

Kenshin stood as still as a pillar beside the hanger door as he watched Obi-Wan, Xanatos and Qui-Gon board the ship, didn’t even move a muscle when Bruck laid his hands on his shoulders.

The ship rose from the hangerbay floor, slowly maneuvering in the hanger toward the large doors that slowly opened like the mouth of an asteroid snake. Once the ship reached the open doors, it sped quickly out of sight.

“Come along, Kenshin. Time for bed.” Bruck said, but Kenshin did not budge.

“I’m not tired.” Kenshin replied. An unknown fear had gripped his heart as he had reached the threshold of the hangerbay doors. Now this same fear kept him rooted where he was. Frozen, unable to summon his father back, unable to keep him from leaving.

Bruck sighed and watched Master Tahl leave the hangerbay with her daughter, son-in-law, and Raven. It was going to be a long night.

Chapter 2

Striding into the council room, Darth Sidious and Darth Maul took their place in the middle of the semicircle of six council members. Darth Plagueis sat at the head of the semicircle of councilors. At the head of the Council’s right Maul recognized Darth Venamis, and Darth Secrenosh. On Darth Plagueis’ left were Darth Ribeous, Darth Milter, and Darth Fraunel.

The room was dimly lit with no windows and only a skylight, to let light into the room. The council members sat in hard, black, elaborately carved seats. Eleven blood red, lit candles were behind the chairs, above every member’s head. Two large greenish candles that held some kind of red tint inside them were on both sides of the large door. The walls were made of stone, and the ceiling and floor had been carved from black marble.

The Sith Temple was the tallest building on Coruscant with the council chamber as the peak. Each council member wore long black cloaks and tunics, with all the edges on the cloak and tunics lined with dark red. Their hoods covered their faces so no one could see their expressions. Maul took a glance at their lightsabers that were hooked on the arms of the chairs, within easy reach should an enemy be suicidal enough to attempt an attack, or a lower Sith to be stupid enough to return after a failure. Maul shifted his feet in discomfort as the seconds dragged by until the required time passed that would allow them to kneel without the risk of immediate death.

As soon as the required time passed, Sidious and Maul knelt, bowed their heads, then slowly lifted them and looked toward Darth Plagueis. Exactly thirty seconds went by before they stood up, straight and erect, patiently waiting for their next orders.

“The Trade Federation has blockaded Naboo in an attempt to rebel against our regime. This outrage will not be tolerated,” Darth Milter stated in his usual gruff manner Maul noted.

“You and your apprentice are to infiltrate the main control ship and arrest the Viceroy. Should they resist—destroy them. Complete this task quickly and kill anyone who gets in your way,” Darth Fraunel continued.

“In the event that you capture the Viceroy alive, you are to bring the Viceroy to us. We shall deal with them severely, making an example of them to all who may attempt to oppose us,” Darth Venamis added.

“May the Darkness of the Force serve you well,” Darth Plagueis finished.

Darth Sidious and Darth Maul clenched their hands into fists and crossed them in front of their chests, bowed to the Council and left the room with their orders.

~*~*~

The Shadow Venger streaked through space to the blockade until it reached the Viceroy’s main ship. “This is the Shadow Venger,” Darth Sidious began as the image of a Neimoidian appeared before him. “We are here by the will of the Sith Council. You are to allow us to board and take us to the Viceroy immediately,” Darth Sidious commanded, menace dripping from each syllable.

The Viceroy’s aide, Teruk Gliamb, looked away for a second. “The Sith demand to board at once, Viceroy,” he said nervously, attempting to gain even a small measure of calmness.

Nute Gunray stayed quiet for a moment before ordering, “Let them come aboard,” before walking to a private part of the bridge.

The aide turned back to the viewscreen. “We will open the ship bay door at once,” he assured them, his heart racing.

~*~*~

Darth Sidious growled and switched the transmission off with a furious click.

“This will be too easy,” Maul said derisively, looking at his Master out of the corner of his eye.

“I expected even a little resistance from them; they did have the nerve to blockade one of our planets. Perhaps they have now realized what a mistake they made. These…animals are too stupid to be anything but pathetic,” Darth Sidious said, an undercurrent of disgust in his voice. “They will undoubtedly resist if only because they fear their demise.”

“We will crush them easily if they try to resist, Master.”

“That we will, my apprentice. That we will.” Twin, malicious smiles crept up the faces of the Sith as the ship flew into the landing bay.

A few minutes later Darth Sidious and Darth Maul stepped off the ship’s ramp, into the hangar bay. “There is no one in sight, Master.” The hanger bay was an average size and held boxes of supplies that lined the walls. Two other ships were docked inside the hanger where small droids were busily working. One of the ships had a silver hose and pump plugged into its fuel canister and was in the process of being pumped with fuel. A small group of workers were off on one side labeling and catering the supplies to the proper storage compartments, not caring that a ship had just landed.

“The fools think they can avoid us.” Darth Sidious snorted in distaste. “Well they won’t remain hidden for long.” Growling deep in his throat, the two Sith walked swiftly toward the exit of the bay.

As they crossed the hangarbay, two human males walked into the bay and approached them. “Master Sith, we are here to escort you to the Viceroy,” the older man told them. “Right this way, please.”

The four walked through a maze of hallways and soon entered a large, bare room. “Is this the Viceroy’s idea of a joke?” Maul demanded when he saw that the Viceroy was not in the room. The Sith glared at the two men who had turned around, and were now looking them in the eye.

“You will take us to the Viceroy—Now!” Darth Sidious shouted, but the two men stood their ground and did not move, not even slightly cowed by the anger in the Sith Master’s voice.

/Master, shall I kill these men?/

Before Darth Sidious could answer his apprentice, the tall man spoke. “I don’t believe we have introduced ourselves. My name is Qui-Gon Jinn and this is Xanatos DeCrion.” He indicated the dark-haired, younger man that stood beside him.

/Now he introduces himself and his companion./ Darth Maul snorted through the training bond. His master remained silent. /Master?/ he queried as he felt the anger radiating from Sidious, directed toward Qui-Gon and Xanatos. /What is it Master?/

/They are Jedi./

/But they are extinct./

/Not any more, it seems, but that can be easily remedied./

Sidious and Maul ignited their lightsabers, as two lightsabers sprang into Qui-Gon and Xanatos’ hands from behind a box next to a wall. “Die Jedi!” Sidious cried angrily, and struck the first blow.

Qui-Gon parried and knocked the vicious slash away from his body with his own lightsaber, letting the Force flow through him. Sidious swung his lightsaber at Qui-Gon’s feet while Maul attacked the younger Jedi furiously, not letting Xanatos get a chance to attack and kept him on the defensive.
Qui-Gon jumped and flipped over the Sith's back and swung at his back. Sidious swung around, blocking the blow that would have dissected him in two.

The sound of lightsabers clashing echoed in the chamber as the Jedi battled the Sith. Back and forth they fought, never changing opponents as they passed by each other.

~*~*~

Obi-Wan watched the battle on the hidden security camera from the bridge as he patiently waited for his master’s orders. It was a necessary assignment. From the bridge Obi-Wan could immediately send out droids to specific areas of the ship and close and open doors in response to any movement the Sith would make once it was time to initiate the second phase of the plan. While the Neimodians were quite capable of doing the task themselves, it was decided that it would be wiser to have a Jedi on the bridge.

/Padawan?/

/Yes, Master?/

/Release the destroyer droids./

/Right away, Master. They will be in your area in less than five minutes./

/Good, see you in a little while./ Qui-Gon ended the conversation with his padawan as he blocked a vicious slash to his side.

~*~*~

The destroyer droids rolled down the corridor and into the room the Jedi were in, their arrival and subsequent laser fire, distracting Xanatos for a split-second causing Maul’s lightsaber to graze his shoulder. That was too close, Xanatos thought to himself as he rolled away from Maul’s downward slash and ran up under a beam designated for the next part of the plan and jumped.

Maul glared up at the beam behind which the Jedi he had been fighting had sought refuge. “Do you think you can hide up there?” He sneered in disgust, ignoring the laser fire from the droids. He was about to jump up to the beam but stopped when he spotted a destroyer droid deliberately launch into a roll towards him with two other droids providing cover fire. Maul blocked the fiery assault and jumped over the suicidal droid. Spinning around, he was a second late as the droid unfolded and shields formed around the droid. Growling in rage, Maul Force ran at the older Jedi who had just Force pushed his Master and swung his blade at the Jedi. The tall Jedi avoided him and joined his companion near the top of the ceiling.

Sidious loudly cursed the Jedi and then called for Maul as he blocked the laser fire. /We must leave,/ He said.

Sidious and Maul fought the three destroyer droids vigorously as they made their way to the exit of the room. As soon as the door opened up, they dashed down the corridor and stopped at an intersection. A sound of rolling metal on metal flooring alerted the Sith to more destroyer droids coming in from two other directions, leaving only one corridor as an option.

“Blasted droids!” Maul yelled as he felt a bolt whiz past his ear. “When I get my hands on those renegades---”

“Those two men are too well trained to be renegade Force users. We must leave and inform the Council about the return of the Jedi.” Sidious shot back, interrupting Maul. With a burst of speed, they ran past the destroyer droids waiting for them at another intersection and back to their ship. Maul winced as a bolt grazed his leg, and with each blaster bolt that was fired at him his anger grew. “How can the Jedi filth have returned! All their knowledge was destroyed!”

Reaching their ship, they boarded and left to make contact with the Sith Council at a safe distance away.

Qui-Gon and Xanatos lowered themselves back down to the floor with the Force and relaxed. “They are definitely not lax in their training,” Xanatos remarked as he held his right hand against the grazed part of his left shoulder. “I didn’t think they would run away that easily.”

Qui-Gon shook his head. “We caught them off guard enough to back off this one time. Next time they will not run away.”

“Yes, and next time can we avoid the use of destroyer droids? They are a nuisance while fighting Sith.”

Qui-Gon began to reply when his comlink beeped. “Yes,” Qui-Gon said into the comlink’s speaking end.

“Master Jedi,” Nute Gunray began. “Queen Misika wishes to speak to you.”

“We will be right there,” Qui-Gon replied and turned off the comlink. “We had best be moving.” Xanatos nodded once in agreement and followed Qui-Gon to the command center.

Oh, I like, like like this! It's different from the PT and better for several reasons LOL but the main ones: Jedi can have families! Yesssss! And they seem to be somewhat balanced against the Sith, not outmaneuvered Tag please when you update again.

@Jade_eyes I am glad you are enjoying my story. Thank you. Here is some more

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Chapter 3

The twin suns blazed heavily on the wasted landscape, its rays striking sand, stone, fabric, and the skin of the many beings scurrying below.

A young boy sat in the middle of a pile of junk with a container full of various tools on his right and an object in his hand. His sandy blond hair protected his scalp from the sun but his neck bore the brunt of the suns rays as he bent over his work.

The boy frowned as he continued his tinkering of a broken machine part. For the eight time the part hummed to life and then died again. “Poodoo!” He threw the part into a pile of other parts that needed to be fixed.

“Language, Anakin.” Watto chided, having left the shop to check on the boy’s progress.

Anakin crossed his arms over his chest and glared up at Watto. “These parts are impossible to fix and you keep bringing more in!”

Watto’s wings flapped quicker than normal and he shook a finger at Anakin. “Keepuna! You claim you can fix anything, so fix those parts, you’re already behind!”

Anakin bolted to his feet. “No! Those parts are poodoo, they cannot be fixed!” A roar filled the air as numerous parts behind the shop flew from their respective piles and hit other parts while some hit the walls.

Watto flew back at Anakin, having been blown a short distance away, and hovered a few inches from Anakin’s face, staring hard into Anakin’s eyes. “Watch your temper, Ani! Keel-ee calleya ku kah. Go home and cool down; donna come back until you do!”

“Fine!” Anakin responded and stomped back into the shop, grabbed the lunch that his mom had prepared for him and then headed home.

When he arrived home, Anakin threw the bagged lunch onto the kitchen table, went into the living area and plopped down on an old worn couch, covering his eyes with his arm.

“What happened?” Shmi asked, coming from her workroom after hearing the commotion Anakin had made coming into their quarters.

“Nothing.” He mumbled.

Wiping her hands on her work apron, Shmi sat down on the unoccupied end of the couch and ran her fingers through his thick, blonde hair. “Don’t let it eat at you, Ani.”

“Why not? He keeps giving me worthless parts that he wants fixed before I can work on fixing his pod! I’ll never get that pod ready in time for the next race if I have to keep trying to fix useless parts.”

“Watto wouldn’t give you a task that he knows you can’t complete; it wouldn’t be good for business.” Shmi told him gently.

Anakin turned over onto his stomach and used his left arm as a pillow for his head. “He’s wrong this time.” He closed his eyes and felt his mother’s warm, gentle fingers brush against his right cheek. Darkness folded in on him and then he slipped into the warm folds of sleep’s embrace, his mother’s voice distant and fading.

~*~*~

Obi-Wan looked up from his workstation as he sensed Qui-Gon and Xanatos enter the command center. Obi-Wan stood before his Master, bowing his head in respect, “Master. Knight Crion. Master Dooku has followed the Sith out into open space and has confirmed that they have gone to hyperspace. He will be returning to the Mountain Temple to make a full report to the Council of the results of our mission,” Qui-Gon’s current padawan reported dutifully.

Qui-Gon nodded his head in understanding. “Good; everything is going as planned. Xanatos—take care of your shoulder.” Xanatos nodded in acknowledgement and left to tend to his injury.

Obi-Wan followed his Master to the viewscreen where the image of Queen Misika in her ceremonial robes sitting on her throne appeared. Three handmaidens, all whom wore crimson robes with hoods covering their faces, surrounded her. Her face looked serene but the heavy makeup did nothing to hide the haggard look in her eyes.

“Jedi, after further discussion with my advisors, it has been decided that Naboo will not ally ourselves with your kind. Naboo will be a neutral planet in this matter.” she said in a commanding voice without preamble. “For the safety of my people, I ask you to withdraw immediately.”

“Your Highness, we understand your concern in this matter,” Qui-Gon began but any further comment was cut off as the ruler of the Naboo continued.

“Then you understand why I cannot allow this alliance.”

“Yes your Highness, we—”

“Then you will leave now?” Queen Misika asked, as if to reassure herself.

“Your Highness, I assure you that we won’t stay longer than necess--”

“You have one hour to leave our planet!” With one last look, that reminded Obi-Wan of the look Aunt Yenna often gave him when he was a child before he left to become a Jedi, she ended the transmission.

Obi-Wan shook his head, not looking at his Master. “This is not going as planned,” he remarked. “She agreed to let us work here, on Naboo, as long as the protection of her people and herself was guaranteed. Why would she back out now unless she knows that the Sith were here?”

Qui-Gon turned to look at his padawan. “They have been under the control of the Sith for so long that they mistrust many—even those who offer aid.” He paused, as he thought a bit. “It is understandable that Queen Misika acts cautiously; however, at times, being too cautious can be dangerous. She will do what she believes is best for her people.”

Obi-Wan nodded his head as he absorbed this information. “I understand.”

Qui-Gon gave him a smile. “Good.” He turned to look out the viewport and said, as an afterthought, “You will make a fine Jedi Knight someday.”

Xanatos came back into the command center and walked up to where Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan stood. “How did the communication with Queen Misika go?”

Qui-Gon turned to look at Xanatos. “She has withdrawn her acceptance of the alliance. We have been given one hour to leave.”

“The Council needs to be informed.” Xanatos said. “Do we have a secure channel to use?”

Obi-Wan nodded, “It’s set up. It’ll only be intact long enough for one call.”

Together, the three Jedi walked into a private room and turned on a graphic communication line with Master Yoda.

The image of Yoda appeared in front of them and they gave a small bow of respect. “Report,” Yoda commanded them.

“Master Yoda,” Xanatos began. “We have faced off the Sith and let them escape. Master Dooku pursued them into space and made sure that they went into hyperspace. He will be returning to the Mountain Temple to give a full report of our mission so far.”

Qui-Gon continued, “However, there has been a recent development…, Queen Misika has withdrawn her decision to ally with us and wishes us to leave the system in one hour.”

Yoda twitched his ears and looked thoughtfully at each of them. “Expected, this was. Back up plan, we have. Padawan Kenobi—made contact with General Binks, have you?”

“Yes, Master Yoda, I have.” Obi-Wan responded quickly. “He is confident that he can arrange an audience with Boss Nass for us when we are ready.”

“Proceed your mission shall. Go to the planet you three will as planned, and meet with General Binks. Obi-Wan, the meeting place, arrange with him. Master Jinn, to Geonosis you shall tell Viceroy Gunray to go. There they will wait for a new Jedi team we will send with new instructions. May the Force be with you,” he finished and closed the line.

“I shall arrange the meeting with General Binks,” Obi-Wan said quietly.

Qui-Gon nodded his head distractedly for his padawan’s benefit. “We will be along shortly,” he replied, sensing that Xanatos was disturbed about something.

Obi-Wan bowed. “Yes, Master,” he said, then left.

When they were alone Qui-Gon went to stand in front of Xanatos. “What is it?”

Xanatos looked at his former Master, his brow creased in thought. “I’m not sure,” he said, hesitation making his voice soft. “Something doesn’t feel right… the Force…it’s too quite.”

Qui-Gon laid a hand on Xanatos’ shoulder. “Then the Sith must be sensing that too. Remember, keep your concentration…”

“…here and now where it belongs,” Xanatos finished with a crooked smile.

Qui-Gon smiled at Xanatos. “We should join Obi-Wan; there is much to be done in a limited time.”

Xanatos followed Qui-Gon out of the room, the nagging quietness temporarily pushed from his mind.

~*~*~

The Shadow Venger blasted off into hyperspace, leaving the Jedi starfighter behind in a white streak. “The Council will not be pleased,” Maul remarked as he looked at his fuming Master who was sitting in the pilot’s seat.

Sidious did not say a word as he made contact with the Sith Council. The entire Sith Council appeared on the viewscreen and Sidious and Maul bowed their heads in respect, waiting.

“Give us your report,” Darth Milter commanded.

“Masters, the mission failed,” Sidious began.

Darth Venamis’ temper flared as he glared at the two, causing Sidious to lose his courage for a moment and swallow. “Failed!” Darth Plagueis roared. “Sith never fail in a mission! Explain yourselves quickly before I decide to wash my hands of you!”

Sidious pushed his momentary fear aside and stood his ground as he explained. “We encountered two Jedi,” he began.

“Jedi,” Darth Ribeous sneered. “The Jedi have been extinct for a millennia!”

Maul blew air sharply out of his nose. “You mean they should have been extinct for a millennia,” he stated impudently.

Darth Ribeous’ face grew beet red at Maul’s remark and his eyes glinted dangerously.

“Also,” Maul continued. “My Master neglected to mention that we were chased by a third Jedi as well.”

/That is enough, Maul!/ Sidious reprimanded his apprentice through their bond.

“Sidious, restrain your apprentice, before his mouth gets him killed.” Darth Plagueis commanded the other Master, glaring at the offending apprentice.

Maul fell silent and lowered his head as he felt his Master’s displeasure through their bond.

Seeing that Maul was properly—if temporarily—silenced, Darth Plagueis continued. “This turn of events is unexpected but will soon be remedied. Darth Sidious, you and your apprentice are to head for Tatooine to investigate a disturbance in the Force that we recently felt. If you encounter any Jedi eliminate them! Once you find the source of the disturbance report back to us. Should you fail us again it will be for the last time!” Darth Plagueis finished sharply.

“As you wish, Masters,” Sidious responded as the Sith Council cut the transmission.

Sidious turned to look at his apprentice who was still mulling over the reprimand his Master had given him. “Be sure you learn this lesson well,” the Master told his apprentice around a snarl as he looked back to the console and set a course to Tatooine.

Hi Jacen. I'm new around here, so not sure what's etiquette in commenting on other stories. I thought this was fun, though.

I'm not sure how I feel about Jedi with families as it brings up the problem - illustrated in your first chapter - where they have to go off on potentially lethal missions and "say goodbye to the kids." Sure, so do soldiers anywhere, anytime, but I think it might prevent them from functioning at full potential, and is one of the things that make Jedi different to warriors in other war stories.

That's just one person's opinion, though.

I liked the dialogue, but if you're up for some constructive criticism, I think your descriptions are a bit light. I couldn't get a sense of where the conversation was taking place in chapter one, what the ship looked like, the sights, smells, etc. Even the characters remained pretty faceless, except Obi-Wan, 'cos we all know what he looks like. Also, again at the end of the first chapter, there is a sudden POV shift. At first I thought we were looking through Obi-Wan's eyes - IE he is the POV character - but the scene continues even after he has taken off with the ship. I got confused.

You may not be interested in this sort of comment, so please feel free to disregard completely. It was fun to read, afterall. Thanks for sharing.


Ai.

Hi, I liked seeing what is happening with the Sith and Anakin -- and then at the end - oops! They're heading for Tatooine But I totally liked the Qui/Obi conversation. It's on topic and yet still warmly encouraging. Qui is open to opinions and concerns from Xanatos; I like how he doesn't dismiss them.

@Aiyan Swan Yes, Jedi having families have negative as well as positive impacts. With the kids, growing up in an isolated community where their parents constantly go on missions with only a few weeks of downtime, it either becomes the norm for them or they become filled with anxiety. Plus you have to add their sensitivity to the Force and how that influences the kids too. Anyway, i hope you enjoy the next chapter

I am always up for constructive criticism I know there will be tweaks that will need to be made, especially for the new chapters that didn't exist in the last version of the story. Thank you.

@Jade_eyes Thank you. I am glad you enjoyed the conversation, i liked it too when i wrote it.

Chapter 4

Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan and Xanatos landed their ship on a piece of somewhat dry, bare ground in the swamp and set out on foot to the designated meeting place.

General Binks arrived shortly after they did and approached them. With a respectful nod, he spoke, “Mesa have news for yousa Jedi. Before yousa arrival Queen Misika informin' Boss Nass dat she will be resignin' and will announce to all of Naboo of her resignation in six days in da evenin'. She wants da Gungans to be dere, if dey can, to hear her speech and to also take part in da election for a new Queen or King.”

Xanatos raised an eyebrow and looked toward Qui-Gon, “Planetary leaders are chosen by the Sith. Why would the Queen hold an election that is not authorized by the Sith Council?”

Before Qui-Gon could reply Obi-Wan spoke to General Binks. “Has Queen Misika told Boss Nass anything about us that would make him hesitant about having an audience with us?”

“Mesa no dink so. Do yousa wish for mesa to inform hesa of yousa arrival?”

Obi-Wan took a quick glance at his Master who nodded his head.

“Yes, please inform him that we wish an audience with him.” Obi-Wan replied.

General Binks gave a short nod. “Mesa will give hesa yousa message. Bein' dere anydin' else dat mesa can do for yousa Jedi?” he asked.

“No, that is all. Thank you for your information,” Obi-Wan said.

General Binks nodded once more and then disappeared back into the depths of the swamp.

Obi-Wan turned to look at his Master and Xanatos, “Master, Queen Misika’s actions will cause the Sith Council to send Sith to investigate.”

“Not only has she put us in a tight spot, her actions might have unforeseen repercussions on the inhabitants of Naboo. The Gungans have remained untouched by the Sith, probably because the Sith feel the Naboo people keep them in check. If Boss Nass agrees with our proposal and depending on how the Sith respond to the unauthorized election, we might have a civil war on our hands.” Xanatos added.

Qui-Gon crossed his arms and thought for a moment. “She has put us in a predicament, but whether it was deliberate we cannot say. Remember, she still doesn’t know that we have contacted the Gungans.”

Obi-Wan nodded his head in understanding, “So what should we do? One of the primary reasons for this mission is to make the Sith aware that we are not just renegade Force users. We risk alienating our present allies if we leave Naboo and the Sith take out their anger on the Naboo people.”

Qui-Gon closed his eyes and silently searched the Force for a solution. When he opened them he shook his head, “We need to find out what has spurred Queen Misika’s decision to do this, what she hopes to accomplish.”

“I’ll send Order 34 through our communication channel to those able to contact us. It will be best if we received no outside contact.” Xanatos told Qui-Gon.

“Agreed.” Qui-Gon replied and Xanatos headed back to the ship.

“Should we get this new information to Master Dooku before he arrives at the Temple?” Obi-Wan asked.

“No, to risky at this point.” Qui-Gon responded.

Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan started back to the ship, carefully making sure they did not leave any evidence of their passage.

~*~*~

The twin suns slowly descended beyond the horizon, taking with its light the heat of the day. Beings began making their way indoors, the hard day’s work done, ready to welcome the coolness and comfort of home.

Garen tucked his hands into the opposite sleeves of his cloak as he walked beside his Master as they left Mos Espa. They had been on Tatooine almost three days now and were no closer to fulfilling the mission. It had taken days to convince the Council to approve the mission to scout out potential Jedi candidates on Tatooine. Of course, that was a ruse to cover the real reason, but it was true from a certain point of view.

Obi-Wan had information concerning a Force Sensitive child that was living on Tatooine who needed to be found and brought to the Mountain Temple. Unfortunately the mission was not as simple as Garen had imagined it would be. A slave. Why did the child have to be a slave! We don’t have the credits to buy the boy’s freedom. Even if we did, we would have to buy the mother’s freedom too in order to convince her to let her son be trained as a Jedi.

“Podracing may be the solution. The Boonta Eve Podrace is going to be held in a few days.” His Master spoke up.

“With what pod, Master?” Garen asked, forced out of his thoughts.

Garen’s Master’s red eyes sparkled. “We place a bet, using our ship in place of credits, and then make sure the racer we bet on wins the race.”

“Risky, but it’s a plan and it’s better than no plan.” Garen said with a nod.

“Indeed.”

~*~*~

Anakin finished soldering the last bit of wiring together and pushed the protocol droid’s eye back into place. “There you go, Threepio.” He flipped a tiny switch at the back of the droid’s neck and Threepio’s eyes lit up.

“Oh my, yes. Thank you, Master Anakin.”

Anakin smiled and jumped off his worktable. “You will really help my mom out.”

Threepio twisted his head back and forth, “Oiled too.”

Anakin smirked and dug in his desk and pulled out a grey, squarish object with buttons on it and a sensor sticking out of one of its corners. “I think I have almost got this scanner working. I’m gonna need you to go find out some information about slave transmitters for me, Threepio, but not yet.”

“Yes, Master Anakin.”

Anakin let out a puff of air, “I need to work on your personality. It’s going to be a dangerous mission.”

“Oh dear,” Threepio moaned just as a knock sounded on the door.

“Anakin, it’s time for bed.” Shmi said as she opened the door.

“Yes, mom.” Anakin replied, powering Threepio back down and placing the scanner on his workbench. He gave his mom a goodnight hug and a kiss on the cheek before he got into bed.

Shmi tucked him in and sat on the edge of the bed, making it creak with the added weight. “Are you sure you’re ready to go help Watto in the shop tomorrow.”

“Yes, I guess.” Anakin tugged at a loose piece of thread on the quilt in thought. “Mom, do you think…do you think Watto would sell me if he got mad at me again or if I can’t fix those parts?”

Shmi brushed aside Anakin’s bangs from his forehead and smiled at him. “No, because you are a hard worker and you’re still a kid who is still learning.”

Anakin looked into his mother’s eyes and then looked down at the quilt. “I hate being a slave.”

“Hate is a strong word, Anakin, be careful how you use it. To be a slave to your own hate and fear is far worse than physical slavery. Be grateful that Watto is a kinder master than the other slave masters here, our situation could be far worse. We have food, clothing, shelter, protection and each other.”

Frowning, Anakin looked up at his mother. “Watto would really protect us?”

“We help his business prosper.” Shmi answered. “Besides, Mos Espa is no place for a single mother and a young boy to be in unprotected.”

“I can protect you, mom.” He said in determination.

Shmi kissed her son’s cheek. “I love you, Anakin, my son.”

“I love you too, mom.” He hugged her and then settled back under the covers.

“Sleep well.” Shmi told him and kissed him on the forehead before turning out the light and leaving the bedroom.

on working out the Nabooian dilemma and working to get Anakin free; it would be nice if Shmi got free at the same time

Well, we will find out soon enough. Thank you for reviewing

@Aiyan Swan
@Jade_eyes


Chapter 5

The Shadow Venger landed on the outskirts of Mos Espa a few days after their encounter with the Jedi. Sidious and Maul descended the ramp with their black hoods covering their faces, menace clinging to their aura. “I feel a strong Force presence in the town, Master,” Maul commented after probing the nearby town with the Force.

Sidious nodded once. “I feel it as well, my apprentice.”

“Do you think it is a Jedi?” Maul asked, his eagerness to confront a Jedi evident in his voice.

Sidious felt for the source and smirked. “No. The presence is strong but untrained.” They entered Mos Espa and continued to follow the source.

The people in the streets, knowing the evil power the Sith possessed, shirked back as they passed. Maul reveled in the peoples’ fear of them, enjoying their frightened expressions. Fear! Fear attracts the fearful...fear is my ally.

They entered the slave quarters of the town and Maul followed his Master to a door that looked like all the other doors they had passed. Sidious banged on it heavily. “In the name of the Sith Empire, you are ordered to let us in!” He commanded and waited for the person inside to open the door. He heard shuffling inside the dwelling as someone moved to open the door.

The door opened, and a worn woman looked out, her gaze wary. The woman’s eyes widened at the sight of the Sith and she backed up, letting the Dark Ones through. She positioned herself where she could effectively block the entrance to her child’s room and looked up defiantly at the Sith. “What can I do for you,” she asked as calmly as she could.

Maul’s eyes flashed as he approached her. “You will do what we tell you, slave!” he responded, sneering the last word.

Sidious felt for the location of the second person in the dwelling and found the second being sleeping in the room behind the woman. The same presence they had been tracking down. “What is your name and who lives with you?” He asked the woman.

“Shmi Skywalker, my son lives with me.” She answered.

“Who is his father?” Sidious asked. Surely such a Force strong boy did not come from two non-Force sensitive parents.

Shmi looked straight into Sidious’ eyes. “There was no father.”

Sidious’ eyes narrowed. “Maul, get a midi-chlorian count of the boy.” Maul nodded in response and entered the bedroom, pushing Shmi aside to do so.

Maul quickly returned with a gleeful crooked smile. “The boy has a midi-chlorian count over twenty thousand.” /Master, is it possible that he is the Chosen One?/

/That is for the Sith Council to determine, my apprentice./

Sidious looked back at Shmi. “Who owns you and the boy?” he asked gruffly.

“He will not sell my son to you, Sith!” Shmi responded, glaring at them. “My son will remain here. He does not belong with the Sith or the Jedi!”

Yellow eyes gleaming with hate, Maul raised his hand and slowly Force choked her. “You will answer my Master!”

Shmi clutched at her throat as she struggled to breath. “W..Watto.” She replied, and Maul released his hold on her. Drawing in a haggard breath she continued. “Watto. He has a small parts shop not far from here.”

Sidious ignited his lightsaber and approached her. “You have been very helpful.” His smile was cruel. “However, your usefulness has now come to an end!” he finished.

Something sparked in Shmi’s eyes and in one swift movement, a silver thin bladed knife with a handle that perfectly fit Shmi’s hand was pulled out from a secret pocket in her skirt and she stood in a defensive stance. “You will not take him!” She declared, ducking as a red blade slashed at her head.

Sidious snarled and swung his lightsaber at her again.

Shmi jumped back, abandoned the door to Anakin’s room and ran into the more open living area.

Maul moved to help his Master, but Sidious motioned him back.

“You are no match for the power of the Sith!” Sidious told her.

To the surprise of the two Sith, Shmi laughed.

“I have fought Sith before.” She took the blade of the knife in between her fingers and unscrewed the blade. She muttered a foreign word and a beam of yellow light blossomed out of the handle.

Sidious lunged forward and struck low, aiming to cut her legs out from under her.

Shmi easily blocked his blade with her own. As she blocked his blade she moved one hand off the handle and drove the knife blade into Sidious hand.

Sidious brought his hands up in pain, almost slicing Shmi in the chest had she not fallen backwards. Angrily he ripped the knife blade out and threw it at Shmi, nailing her in the arm before she could recover enough to move out of the way.

Gritting her teeth in pain, Shmi stood back up and held her lightsaber in her left hand. The knife blade had imbedded itself deep into her right arm.

Slashing at her right side, his blade connected with hers and he delivered a swift round kick at her back, causing her to fall heavily onto the floor.

Her dark hair all in disarray, Shmi looked like a mad woman with a wild gleam in her eyes. She rolled to the left and grabbed the dropped lightsaber and blocked yet another blow from the Sith. Her right arm useless, she went on the defensive.

Sidious growled and Force threw some tools that were laying on her workbench at her.

She dropped to her stomach, but not fast enough, a wrench struck her in the head. Dazed, she shook her head trying to clear it and the Sith Lord grabbed her by the hair and dragged her up to meet his eyes. “I was going to give you a quick death, but now I’ll make it slow and painful. I’ll drink in your pain and agony and will enjoy it.” He plunged his lightsaber into her and dropped her to the ground.

“Maul, get the boy while I go get the slave transmitter disabled. Meet me at the town’s gate!”

“Yes my Master.”

~*~*~

In a long skinny alley, two cloaked figures watched one of the Sith leave the slave quarters.

“We’re too late. The Sith got here before us!” Garen angrily kicked at the wall.

“Be calm, we haven’t failed yet.” Answered Garen’s master.

Scowling, Garen crossed his arms. “If the Council had let us go sooner instead of delaying us with bure--”

“That’s enough!” The master adjusted his hood that had slid back and leaned against the wall of the alley. “We will simply adjust our plans.”

“Obi-Wan will not be pleased.”

“Go intercept the apprentice and the boy! I’ll take care of the Master.”

“Yes, Master. May the Force be with You.”

“And with you, my padawan.” And with that he Force leapt to the roof of the building.

~*~*~

Sidious found Watto’s shop and entered. A pudgy blue creature greeted him at the entrance, a sly smile on his face. “How can-a I help you?” he asked.

Sidious eyed him closely. “Are you Watto, the owner of the slaves in the slave quarter dwelling number 657345?”

“You mean Shmi and Anakin Skywalker, yeah they’re mine. Why?”

Sidious’ eyes flashed in irritation. I hate Toydarians, they are so unrespectful. Without saying a word Sidious took out his lightsaber and ignited it. “Give me the device to disable the boy’s transmitter and transfer his ownership to me,” he commanded.

“I don’a care if you are Sith—you are not getting’ Ani, he is worth much to me,” Watto spoke defiantly.

Sidious gave a crooked smile as an evil—yet simple—plan developed in his mind. “I can give you the power of the Sith and with it, anything you desire is yours—power, wealth…”

Watto spat in disgust. “I don’a trust Sith. Little Ani is not for sale!” He turned to fly off, but the Sith grabbed one of his wings and yanked down hard.

Grunting in pain, Watto struggled to get free from the Sith’s grip. “Letta me go, I’m under orders.”

“Orders? What orders?” Sidious asked, releasing Watto from his grip.

Watto flew behind the counter and continued. “I am only looking out for him till his real Master returns. Ani doesn’t hav’a transmitter.”

Sensing the truth in Watto’s words, Sidious growled in irritation. “Where is his Master now?”

Picking up a broken part that lay on the counter, Watto began fiddling with it. “I dunno. But when he hears that you have taken Ani then you will hav’a sealed your fate!”

Sidious reached across the counter and grabbed the Toydorian around the neck, pulled him over the counter, and shook him hard. “You dare to threaten me?” He hissed and then threw him into a pile of broken droids, knocking Watto out.

He advanced toward Watto and then stopped when he felt the unmistakable presence of a Jedi nearby. Fury filled Sidious, the embarrassment from the encounter on the Trade Federation ship fed his fury and he pivoted on his heel and ran out of the shop in search of the Jedi.

I hope you all had a great Christmas. A new chapter will be coming soon.

Hi, gripping and super cliffie

@Jade_eyes Thanks Here is the next chapter and Happy New Year!



Chapter 6

Maul marched to Anakin’s room and slammed open the door. “Get up boy!”

Anakin groaned and rolled over on his stomach.

“Get up!” Maul repeated, his voice booming in the room.

Anakin froze, the voice broke into his fog of sleep. Alien. Unfamiliar. He scrambled out of his covers and scooted back against the wall. “Who are you? Why are you in my room? Where’s my mom?”

Maul grabbed the child by his arm and pulled him from his bed. “The Jedi have killed your mother, we must leave now!”

“No!” Anakin shouted. He kneed Maul in the groin, making him loosen his grip. “Mom!” He ran out of the bedroom and froze a few feet into the living room.

The furniture in the living area lay in disarray. Slash marks marked the table, chairs and walls and on the floor, in the middle of the room, lay his mother.

He went to go to her but was grabbed from behind and thrown over Maul’s shoulder. “No! Let me go!...Mom!” He pounded on the Zabrak’s back and kicked, trying to free his legs.

Maul grunted and used the Force to immobilize the boy’s limbs. “Stop it! You want the Jedi to kill you too!”

Tears welled up in Anakin’s eyes as they entered the slave quarters courtyard. “Mom…”

~*~*~

Sidious ran out of the shop and ducked as a lightsaber nearly beheaded him. Activating his lightsaber, he pivoted and blocked the next oncoming blow. “Jedi!” He sneered.

The Jedi Master merely smiled and launched a flurry of attacks on the Sith.

The marketplace was deserted and curious, frightened eyes peeked through the windows of the shops. A blaster rang out, the bolt easily deflected by Sidious’ lightsaber and back to its source.

The combatants fought up and down the street, launching attack after attack. They were a living, deadly, whirlwind. No one else dared to shoot at them again.

Sidious fed on the peoples fear, it invigorated him, washed away the pain from the wounds he suffered in his last battle. He half crouched and half spun, attempting to know the Jedi’s legs out from under him.

The Jedi easily skipped backward but a small wayward droid passed behind him and caught his left foot. He lost his balance and fell into a fruit stall.

Sidious’ eyes flashed yellow as he went in for the kill.

~*~*~

Garen took a deep breath and slowly let it out. Calming himself with the Force, he stepped out of the alley just as the Sith apprentice emerged from one of the slave quarters with the boy slung over his shoulder.

“Drop him Sith!”

Maul snarled and put Anakin on the ground. Taking his lightsaber off his belt, Maul ignited both ends of the dual saber. “Jedi! Come to answer for this young boy’s mother’s death?”

Garen paused, momentarily stunned. He looked at the boy who was now standing up and looking defiantly at him with a tear stricken face. Frell! He shook his head. “What other lies have you told this boy?”

“Only the truth.” Maul hissed and advanced toward the Jedi.

Garen fell into a defensive position and held his unignited lightsaber in his right hand. “You only have your word to back you up, Sith! Where is your proof?”

Maul advanced another step. “Where is your Master? Continuing his killing spree perhaps?”

Garen’s throat constricted and he swallowed against the tightness. “Jedi are not murderers!”

“Prove it then, Jedi! Tell me where your Master is!” Maul responded.

Licking his dry lips, Garen frantically sought the right words. The Sith were crafty with their words and could twist sentences out of context. “Hunting down the boy’s mother’s murderer.”

“Lead us to him then if you are telling the truth. Perhaps he has lied to you boy and the truth as you know it is nothing but a lie.” Maul told him and disengaged his lightsaber.

What is he playing at? I don’t like this. Garen nodded his head and hooked his lightsaber to his belt, his every instinct screaming against doing so. “Very well. Follow me.”

Maul put his hand on Anakin’s shoulder and pushed him lightly forward. “Let’s go.”

Anakin numbly followed them, still unable to settle his mind and think coherently.

~*~*~

The Jedi Master spun away from the oncoming blade, missing being skewered by inches by the red blade.

“Give it up Jedi,” Sidious sneered mockingly. “Your powers are no match for mine.”

The Jedi Master backpedaled and spun his lightsaber. “I’m still alive, am I?”

Sidious snarled and used the Force to draw the sand up in the air like a mini hurricane and hurled it at the Jedi.

The Jedi closed his eyes and spun to use his cloak as a shield against the sand. His senses flared as the Force warned him of an impeding second attack and deftly blocked the lighting that sprang from the Sith Lord’s fingers with his lightsaber.

The lightening continued and the Sith stepped slowly to the side in a smooth circle. “Now you die, Jedi!

The Jedi kept blocking the lightening and used the Force to throw some fruit from one of the stalls at the Sith.

The lightening ceased and the Sith used the Force as a shield against the onslaught. The Jedi rushed at him and swung his lightsaber at the Sith’s head. The Sith ducked, reignited his lightsaber and blocked the next incoming strike while with his other hand he threw a large bolt of lightening down low toward the Jedi’s right foot.

The Jedi let out a gasp as his foot failed him and at that moment of weakness, Sidious plunged his lightsaber into the Jedi’s back, straight to his heart.

~*~*~

Anakin’s eyes widened as he abruptly stopped walking. The Jedi Padawan had crumbled to the ground, clutching his head.

“Master…no!” The young Jedi breathed, as if he had had the air knocked out of lungs.

An elderly man came around a corner and stopped a foot away from the young Jedi. “Is this the Jedi’s Padawan?” He asked Maul after sparing a glance at the young Jedi.

“Yes Master. Did you find the murderer?” Maul sent the memory of the earlier exchange to his Master who acknowledged with a slight nod of his head.

“Yes. Apparently he attacked Watto in the shop and when he sensed my presence he leapt on top of the roof and came around the front of the shop and nearly beheaded me when I went in pursuit of him.” Sidious replied.

“No, you lie.” The Jedi Padawan stood up unsteadily, struggling to maintain a passive face.

Sidious cocked his head to one side. “My poor boy, so deluded. Would you care to see Watto’s broken body? I can take you to see for yourself. And go ahead and ask one of the vendors if it was indeed your master who struck first?”

The Padawan shook his head and took a step back. He gave the Sith a piercing look and then slowly turned around to look at the child he and his Master had been trying to free.

“What is your name?”

“Anakin Skywalker.” He looked into the Padawan’s eyes and saw, sorrow?

The Padawan unhitched his lightsaber from his belt, all too aware of the Sith tensing, preparing to attack him. He bent down and placed the lightsaber on the sandy ground, giving it a gentle push toward Anakin. “Anakin, take my lightsaber, you will be needing it.” And with that, the Padawan darted away, using the Force to boost his speed.

Anakin looked at the lightsaber in puzzlement and then hesitantly retrieved it. The hilt was heavy in his hands and warm to the touch.

“We must go now before the Jedi calls for backup.” Sidious said.

“But I have a slave transmitter that’ll blow me up if I leave the planet!” Anakin said in a fearful rush.

Sidious laid his hand gently on Anakin’s shoulder. “I deactivated the transmitter with the Force, a simple procedure. Now let’s go!”

~*~*~

From one of the rooftops, Garen lay flat against the roof, watching the Sith depart with Anakin. The mission was a total disaster. His Master was dead and the Sith had Anakin. Obi-Wan is going to kill me. Garen thought miserably. After the Sith and Anakin were out of sight, Garen jumped off the building, using the Force to slow his descent. He approached Watto’s shop and found his Master’s body still lying on the ground.

He turned his master onto his back and closed his master’s eyes. “I’m sorry, Master. I failed, but I will get Anakin back, I promise. This mission will not be a waste.

Taking his Master’s lightsaber, he hooked it to his belt and, using the Force, lifted his fallen Master and began making his way to the ship.

~*~*~

Maul showed Anakin the cabin he would be staying in for the duration of the trip and had a droid go get some food for Anakin. After seeing that the boy’s needs had been taken care of, he went to join his Master in the cockpit.

Anakin laid down on the bunk and examined the lightsaber that the Jedi Padawan had given him. “Why my mom?” He murmured. He wiped at his eyes with the edge of his sleeve and turned his head when he heard the droid return with food.

The droid pulled out a small table from a nook in the wall and set it up next to the bunk and then set down the platter of food.

Anakin eyed the platter and tentatively lifted the lid from one of the plates. His stomach growled as he smelled the sweet spicy flavoring on the slab of Bantha meat, broiled fish eggs, and tubers with some kind of yellow sauce dribbled on them.

Anakin picked up a fork and took a bite of one of the tubers. He had finished half of the food on his plate when he started feeling sick to his stomach. The events of the day flashed through his mind, his glimpse of his mother’s still form at the forefront of his mind.

A chill filled the room, piercing through Anakin’s skin. Anakin’s breath came out as a mist and hovered for a second before drifting away. Anakin turned his head to the side and dropped the fork that he had been holding. A deep mist filled crevice was opening up and a sudden wind swept Anakin into the fissure. He cried out, flailing his arms aimlessly as he fell.

Who are you?

Anakin stopped screaming at the unexpected voice and he realized that he was laying on the ground next to a very large pool of water that had water flowing into it from up above. “Where am I?” He sat up and scanned the landscape in search of the voice that had spoken.

This is my spot!

Anakin quickly turned around and saw a person near his age, wearing a brown cloak, sitting on the ground staring at him. “I’m sorry. I don’t know how I got here.”

Blue eyes flashed from underneath the hood of the cloak. Leave!

The ground rocked violently underneath them and steam burst through the ground, creating massive cracks. A roar filled the sky and massive lightening bolts hit the ground. The air grew agonizingly hot and a red liquid began to bubble up through the cracks. The water had also become red and steam rose from the pool.

Anakin remained immobilized, his mouth opened but nothing came out. Millions of voices filled his head and then the chattering became a long drawn out shriek. A lull overtook the noise and chaos and then there was nothing but a void.

:shock: And totally