The Book of Teachers

"You made it back safely," Padmé said with the warmth of greeting an old friend as she reached out to Bail Organa.

The delegate from Alderaan returned the greeting then made note of his Jedi protection. "It seems I have missed much in my absence."

Padmé eyed the two Jedi that had saved her from the Sith's attack. She nodded a silent thank you.

Bali blushed slightly before he followed his master a discreet distance from the two senators. He watched curiously as Padmé guided Organa to her private office so they could continue the conversation. Quickly loosing his attention with the senators, Bali sought out his master who stared dully out the expansive window. Through their bond, he could feel a tenseness that developed the moment the senator had insisted on visiting with Amidala. Choosing not to investigate it further, he focused on the powerful sense of sadness. It was oddly masked and he had to strain slightly to pinpoint it. Curiosity filled the boy's features when he realized the feeling came from Senator Amidala. He had felt that feeling before but had only seen it in those who were sobbing. Amidala remained in control of her outward features, even venturing a giggle at something Senator Organa had said.

It was wrong to ease drop, or at least that was what Master had told him numerous times, so Bali turned his attention back to his tense master.

"It is all right, Padawan," Obi-Wan replied without looking over to the boy.

Relief briefly fluttered over his bright green eyes as he quickly moved to his master's side.

As gentle as always, Obi-Wan reached out and pressed a firm hand to Bali's shoulder eliciting a small smile from the padawan. Bali was completely taken in by the comfort provided in the hand against his shoulder. Sometimes it said more than a brush with his master's mind.

His thoughts drifted to the upset Mejur in the corridor and the things he had heard said to the reporter. Turning a worried gaze to the older Jedi, Bali asked, "I don't understand, why do they hate us?"

"Fear in what they do not understand," Obi-Wan answered softly. "There is always a tendency to try to harness what you cannot understand."

"What will happen to us?"

"We will maintain. Bend when we have to, adjust to change, but the Jedi have always been and we will always be even in difficult times. It is the nature of the universe. Cycles of difficulty and acceptance."

"Yes, Master," Bali replied obediently even if he was a little worried about the future.

* * *

Anakin had stormed off so quickly that the elder master had lost him in the labyrinth of the corridors. Qui-Gon slowly returned to the Naboo senator's apartment. Through the Force, he felt the familiar signature of his former apprentice and the little padawan he had made friends with days earlier in the healing center.

Without hesitation, Qui-Gon marched into the common room; his gaze immediately found Padmé and Bail Organa sitting in the office. He sensed a great sadness from the young senator.

Then his gaze found the two Jedi at the large window. The little padawan turned to greet him with a small smile but did not move from his master's side. In the glass, against the late afternoon sun, Qui-Gon studied Obi-Wan's reflection. In the golden light, he caught sight of two pale blue eyes. They shifted to stare dully towards the senate building.

Bali turned back to the window and Qui-Gon sensed the easy flow of silent communication between master and padawan. Tiredly Obi-Wan reached out and ruffled the boy's short brown spikes. The padawan giggled as he fixed his hair.

"I see you have been called to action as well," the elder master said softly as he approached the window.

Obi-Wan turned sharply; the cold blue of his gaze almost sent Qui-Gon back a step. "Your padawan just had a very public temper tantrum," the younger master said plainly, allowing no emotional inflection in his tone.

"I seriously–"

Placing a distance between himself and his padawan, Obi-Wan swiftly moved closer to Qui-Gon. He spoke in a low tone, "Times are tense enough without him putting a show on for a HBC reporter and a camera droid. Although," there was a pause, "he most likely destroyed the droid's recording device."

"I would be careful with your insinuations," Qui-Gon warned. He would not stand there and have Anakin run down.

"We saw him do it. He almost knocked a senator over," Bali said softly, joining in on the conversation.

Qui-Gon was quiet, not venturing to argue with the eyewitnesses. Knowing the little boy would only speak the truth. "I am sure there is a legitimate reason for this behavior," he said a little more calmly, "you probably misread what you saw."

"Senator Kulu did not," Obi-Wan replied. "Reign him in or he will be the death of us all."

"You put too much faith in him," Qui-Gon returned.

"And you don't?"

Qui-Gon took in a deep breath as he folded his arms across his chest. His intense gaze studied the younger man. "You have always disliked Anakin."

"What I saw had little to do with my personal opinion."

A sharp remark leapt to Qui-Gon's lips but was quickly stifled at the curiously concerned look from Bali. He stared at the little padawan for a time. His arms were folded into the sleeves of his cloak in a silent mimic of his master. He looked like a proper Jedi padawan with his flame tipped padawan braid brushing over his shoulder. So different from the disoriented, worried child he had found in the healing center. He could see in the boy's bright green eyes the adoration he had of his master. It brought back to Qui-Gon the ever-growing distance between he and Anakin.

"Come, Padawan," Obi-Wan said softly, a gentle hand to the boy's shoulder guided him back to the window.

Bali looked over his shoulder at Qui-Gon, but obediently kept his place at his master's side. For a while, the small padawan stared out the window watching traffic before turning to look at Obi-Wan. "Master?"

"Yes, Padawan?"

Again, Qui-Gon was brought to pause at the gentle manner the young master spoke.

"Why did you walk away?" Bali asked softly.

"It would serve no purpose to continue that conversation."

Bali just looked at him not understanding, then turned and stared at Qui-Gon again.

"Look into that office," Obi-Wan said calmly motioning toward where Padmé and Senator Organa were still visiting. "Their lives are in danger. Their worlds are on the brink of war with the Secessionists." From habit or illness, Obi-Wan shrugged into the folds of his cloak. The last thing they need is to be witness to an argument in the common room. And that is where this conversation was quickly descending too."

"Yes, Master," Bali replied still looking confused.

Qui-Gon was left standing in the center of the room staring at the backs of the two Jedi.

_______________________

Holonet Broadcasting Company

"sketchy reports are coming out of he League of Secessionists camp. Chairman Regnosz of the Aveniar Imperium was assassinated during secret peace negotiations with Republic mediators. Initial medical examiner's reports say Regnosz died from the removal of his primary pulmonary organ. The assassins are being held pending sentencing."

"In another story, Lyka Uan, interviewed Senator Kulu Eyo Tapir of the Mejur delegation. Holo at eleven."

__________________________

Book of Flesh and Bone Part VIII

"Quite beautiful, don't you think?" Ighista Trocha asked as he stepped silently out onto the moonlit balcony of the main house. His gaze swept across the Xim countryside lit by the two moons.

Obi-Wan paused from his notes to study the blue glow that danced over the trees below. He stared up into the larger of the two moons. The pale yellow surface was stark against the black sky, but it did nothing to diminish the brilliance of the smaller moon. "Yes."

"I am not speaking of the moons," Trocha replied evenly, never offering the knight a glance.

Exhaling slowly, Obi-Wan returned to his work. The silence was long and drawn out before it became too much to bear. "Master Trocha, I–"

The former healer waved his hand dismissively. "No explanations needed. Halla told me all."

Obi-Wan stared curiously as the former Jedi healer. He did not like the brief flutter of threat that emanated from the other man.

"Oh, I understand padawan flings, they are as common a braids in the Temple, not that the masters would pretend such biological urges take place. There is little of my wife's history that surprises me." He paused to carefully look the knight over. "I also know that she was cast out of the Order."

"She did not return to the Temple for a formal inquiry." Obi-Wan replied carefully.

"She would have been dismissed. It would not change the blood on her hands. She cannot bring her master or the passengers of that ship back to life. She suffers enough and needs no more punishment."

"Of course, Master–"

"My wife," Trocha stressed then remained silent for a time as if considering how to phrase his next statement. "Your presence is disrupting her life."

"She has nothing to fear if she thinks I will force her to return to the Temple."

Trocha's dark eyes glinted in the moonlight with an unspoken mirth. "You could not if you wanted to, young Jedi." He started to withdraw into the warm glow of the house. "Find Qin Luc, we cannot afford to lose her expertise, then be gone from my home. My social graces are wearing thin." He paused.

Under the older man's dark gaze, Obi-Wan felt mildly uncomfortable.

"You will avoid my wife until then." It was not spoken as a request.

"Yes, Master," Obi-Wan bowed stiffly in acquiescence.

_________________

The Book of the Rock

"No, Padawan," Obi-Wan said softly, stopping the boy from obediently following him out of the Naboo suite and into the corridor. "Remain. I am just stepping out for a short patrol."

"Yes, Master," Bali dutifully nodded but wished his master would not leave. He waited patiently until his master had retreated from the apartment before he moved back into the common room. Slowly he turned his attention to the office where Padmé and Senator Organa continued their conversation; seemingly oblivious to the tense words exchanged in the common room. Somehow, Bali wondered if his master had something to do with that. He started back toward the window where he had been standing but found Qui-Gon had taken up position there.

The apprentice carefully stifled a frown and walked quietly around the room. He cast out for anything unusual but everything seemed fine. He noted that the two senator's spoke in a very soft, very tense conversation. Withdrawing a little he turned his focus back to his immediate surroundings. In one of the private rooms of the apartment he noted another presence but decided it was benign.

His feelings were confirmed when Sirceé appeared in the doorway. She smiled gently and then disappeared again.

Again, the little boy tried to look calm, wishing only to ease his nervousnesses. He breathed out and slowly inhaled focusing on anything but the tall master standing by the window. The master had been quite kind before but Bali had definitely sensed hurt through his bond with his own master. It was not the first time he had felt that in the presence of the two masters. He wished he understood. After a short time he gave up on trying to figure out the impossible and sought the training bond.

The immediate response was a gentle, reassuring pulse followed by an instruction to be mindful of his surroundings.

Slowly, the boy looked over a Qui-Gon.

When the Jedi master turned, Bali quickly looked away.

"So Bali Tiro, what do you think of the Senate Towers?" Qui-Gon asked gently.

"I have often been here. I have been on many missions with my master," Bali replied formally with the slightest touch of pride in his voice.

"You are quite young to have been on many missions," the tall master chuckled.

"I am thirteen," Bali said quickly as he fished through the folds of his cloak and found the concealed river stone his master had given him. He held the scared stone up in the light. The red veins sparkled. "Master gave this to me for my birthday. He said it was his when he was a padawan."

Qui-Gon just stared at the stone nestled in the center of Bali's hand.

"It's not just a rock," the apprentice continued feeling it necessary to defend the stone he held so reverently. "Everyone thinks it is. But look." He sent a pulse toward the stone and the red veins glowed warmly. "It's Force sensitive." He twisted it around in his palm as a curious expression studied the scarred surface. "I think it was broken though."

The Jedi master walked over to the young padawan.

Big green eyes looked up at Qui-Gon but Bali did not retreat. Instead, he held the stone out a little farther so the master could better examine it.

"Yes," Qui-Gon said softly. "It was broken, but through the Force it was made whole again. It gives us hope that even the deepest wounds can heal."

* * *

Obi-Wan had found a window at the end of the corridor next to the Naboo delegation's suite. A warm glow cast across the window, warming the usually cold Jedi. He pulled at his cloak seeking any protection he could from the inborn chill.

After a time, he turned back to the door and wondered whether he had done the right thing leaving his padawan in there, alonewith his former master.

Through the training bond, he reached for Bali and felt the brush of the child's mind. He sensed mention of the river stone and Bali's fierce protectiveness of it. It gave a small smile to the tired Jedi. He had thought that by giving Bali the stone without explanation, the boy would gain more from exploring its special properties on his own. He had not underestimated Bali.

______________________

Holonet Broadcasting Company

"again we warn you. If there are younglings present, please to do not let them see this footage. This is coming off the Aveniar's primary newsnet. Live footage. Chairman Regnosz's believed assassins, two Jedi Knights, have been sentenced to death. Again, this footage is hard to watch. They are being burned alive as we speak in one of the most barbarian displays of corporal punishment. Live footage. The League of Secessionists refused any inquiry into the matter by the Republic or the Jedi Council. We will continue to offer the footage as long as the feed lasts but please use discretion when viewing it. They are pouring more fuel on the fire. Look at those flames, you can hardly see the two Jedi in the flames"

________________________

The Book of Antagonism

Adjani'esan twisted about and gave the young man behind her a luscious smile. It was quickly returned with a blush and an embarrassed glance away.

"Oh, don't look away," Adjani purred as she reached out and brushed a powder blue finger along the young Capriian aide's jawline.

The Caprii nervously clutched his work to his chest and sheltering himself behind the dark gray robes of his station. His dark eyes followed the beautiful Jedi, but his body as well as his adherence to duty made him scurry away all the more quickly down the corridor.

"Humans," she sighed, "never any fun when you want them to be." She turned her attention back to her patrol of the Senatorial Towers. The level of boredom was unbelievable and she dearly wished to be assigned to some more interesting mission, like protecting a spoiled prince or a small clan war. Anything was better than being trapped in a building with stuffy politicians.

Maybe she could accidently on purpose run into Obi-Wan and his giggly padawan again. Certainly, there was something she could do to stir up the storm clouds in the master's pale blue eyes, she mused silently.

The Force tugged at her, pulling at her senses.

A snap followed by the warm hum of an emerald green lightsaber filled the corridor as the Twi'lek Jedi moved into a more defensive mode. She carefully slinked through the hall, pausing at the intersection. In a flash of green she brought her weapon up, but pulled out of the deadly strike.

The Capriian aide she had played with moments earlier stumbled forward. His dark eyes bright with terror at the sight of the fierce Jedi warrior. He tried to get away, but his feet tangled in the long gray robe and he fell. Adjani's quick reflexes caught the young man but it was too late. The young man was dead before she eased him to the floor. A triangular shaped shard jutted from his back.

Reaching for her comm, Adjani quickly backed away from the body, scanning the corridor for his attacker.

The darkness quickly overwhelmed her, clouding her mind. Vengier's blade would have severed her head if not for her skill. She blocked the attack but was quickly driven back.

Adjani leapt backward, twisted and landed on the other side of the Sith. "Thought you were going to surprise me?" She lashed out, proving her skill and quickly setting the dark lord on the defensive. "You may have had a chance against a padawan and an old man, but I am neither."

"You talk to much!" Vengier hissed, swiping erratically at the cool, calculated blows delivered by the Twi'lek.

Feeling comfortable, Adjani pressed forward, quickly driving the Sith towards another intersection. It would give her a little more room to fight and easily finish this little game. Ever since the rumored reappearance of the Sith nine years ago, she had trained for this moment. It would be hers.

Vengier reached out, drawing on the Force. Fixtures in the corridor rattled as they were violently pulled on, with cracks and pops, the ornamentation ripped free, plowing through the air, directed at the Twi'lek.

Battered by flying objects, Adjani leapt backward a step, striking violently out at debris thrown at her.

Using the opening, Vengier struck. The crimson blade was driven into Adjani's shoulder. The Twi'lek growled, biting back a scream as she stumbled away.

"It hurts," Vengier hissed, approaching the wounded Jedi. "It knows pain, but not my pain."

In a flash, Adjani called her weapon from her right, to her left hand and lunged for the masked figure.

The folds of the dark shroud hid the speed at which Vengier moved, twisting just out of Adjani's deadly reach. In a swift motion, the Sith turned back, driving the red blade down, slicing through the brown cloak. Adjani tumbled, rolled and leapt, landing gracefully on her feet. Determination remained strong in her dark eyes as she sized up her attacker.

A black gloved hand appeared from the folds of the black shroud and playfully urged Adjani to attack.

The Jedi remained perfectly still, holding her weapon at ready.

Vengier turned and bolted.

Adjani laughed before taking off after the Sith. Amazing, she thought, this was the Sith that had given Jinn and his apprentice so much trouble? She rounded the corner the figure had vanished into and found nothing. A viewing deck was all that stood there. Studying the corridor with the Force, Adjani conceded that the dark lord had gotten away. She quickly called in a report to Master Sev'ali, who was coordinating the Jedi security within the building.

She silently chastised herself for loosing her prey as she slowly ventured close to the viewing deck. There were no alarms indicating the protective field had been disrupted.

Still, something in the Force did not feel right. Not quite a warning but not something Adjani could easily ignore. She stepped out into the center of the deck where the bright, late afternoon sun glowed against her skin. Warily she reached for her weapon.

Sunlight glinted of an air taxi, hovering curiously close to the building, casted a bright gleam of light into Adjani's eyes, causing her to quickly turn away. The field collapsed, but no alarms sounded. The rush of wind alerted the Twi'lek warrior. She spun just in time to be swallowed in darkness. She struggled, but her feet were ripped out from beneath her as Vengier Force shoved her over the railing.

A shrill cry ripped from the woman as she grasped for a handhold, dangling far above the city below.

"Try holding on without an arm!" Vengier crowed. A flash of the crimson blade severed Adjani's right arm just below the shoulder sending the Twi'lek tumbling. The searing pain nearly blinded her, but Adjani fought to focus, using the Force to direct her fall. She bounced off another viewing deck force field before crashing into a lower level docking station.

____________________

The Book of the Protector

Padmé moved silently into the common room of her apartment. She glanced out at the night sky, even if on Coruscant it was never truly dark.

A warm gray tunic with dark trews tucked into boots made up her less than formal attire. She glanced back toward the private apartments where her faithful assistant and handmaiden played the part of the Senator. Another attack in the building had taken the life of a Capriian aide and left a Jedi Knight critically injured had brought this added measure of security to her life.

The room felt a little chilly and she quickly pulled on a matching poncho. It was a little bulky and something she normally would not wear on Coruscant but it concealed weapon and other useful items, just in case. While Padmé possessed great faith in her security, she would not cower in the face of danger. If she could fight, she would.

Speaking of security, Padmé glanced about. The tight braid her hair had been drawn into twisted over her shoulder, then dangled down her back. Her gaze found Anakin Skywalker standing in a shadowed corner; he seemed to take in the entire room except her.

A soft smile was offered, but Anakin did not respond, drawing a disgruntled feeling from the young Senator. Padmé walked across the room to the Jedi apprentice and studied his solemn features. He was so young, so handsome. She quickly shook off the notion, reminding herself again that he was too young, especially to face the dangers that certainly waited him in his commitment to the Jedi Order. "You took me by surprise earlier," she said evenly. "Had I not been so taken aback I probably would have answered better."

"But not differently," Anakin stated flatly.

Padmé struggled against her emotions, masking them behind a professional demeanor. "Will you be here in the morning, Jedi Skywalker?"

"It is my duty to protect you. I will never be far from your side until this crisis is over."

"Good, because I have someplace important to go and you will escort me."

"Yes, Milady."

The cool formality brought a frown to the Senator's delicate features.

____________________

The Book of Assassinations

Senator Bail Organa's conference with members of the Loyalist Committee had gone relatively well, but he was still put off that the Chancellor had been late to arrive and had to leave early. It had left him to wonder whether his negotiations had meant anything to Palpatine. Throughout the entire meeting, the Chancellor seemed distracted even disinterested.

His weariness with politics quickly subsided at the entrance to the protected corridor that led to his suite. The Senator glanced back at his assistant Lome Freol, then at the Jedi master and apprentice that followed and beyond them the half dozen Alderaan security guards in their gray uniforms.

"Of course," Organa said with a hint of bravado in his voice, "I appreciate this, but my own people and the extra security–"

"Are not trained to fight this assassin," Obi-Wan evenly interrupted.

Stopping at his door, Organa paused to study the Jedi master. "What does it say that this assassin has already killed two Jedi?"

"Only one," Obi-Wan corrected. "He was young and inexperienced and should not have confronted the assassin on his own. Knight Adjani'esan, is critically injured but the healers feel she will eventually recover should she survive the day."

It did not slip the Senator's attention that mention of the knight's name brought a sad little frown to Bali. The elegantly dressed man, in dark blue robes, turned toward his door and stared at it suspiciously. Offering up a cavalier laugh, he asked, "You don't think there is anything in their waiting for me?"

"No." Obi-Wan's answer was firm, definite. In many ways it settled Organa's raging nerves.

The Jedi were the first to enter, then the private guard flanked Senator and his assistant. Inside, the suite was considerably larger than that of the Naboo delegation's. It was a testament to the power of the Alderaan man's pull in the Senate and the pivotal influence the world held within the Republic. The large, finely decorated common room remained intact and undisturbed but the Jedi remained on alert.

Organa marched around his protection and glanced about. "Everything seems fine." He gave a slightly unsettled grin as he paused to study the Jedi. Deciding it was safe; he motioned Lome to the transparasteel enclosed office.

* * * * *

Obi-Wan scanned the room visually and then carefully pulled it apart through the Force searching for the slightest trace of darkness. That elusive shadow did not exist and it gave the Jedi master a little relief. "You should stay close to your guard," Obi-Wan said, causing the Senator to pause.

Organa looked rather unhappy to have all his private guard pressing into the room. "I realize that my safety is the concern here, but I am sufficiently protected with the patrols outside the building and these gentlemen standing guard outside my office." He hesitated, noting Obi-Wan's stern look. "Master Kenobi, I understand that it is for my sake. I also understand that if this killer is determined enough, no amount of protection will save me."

Slowly, reluctantly Obi-Wan agreed allowing the Senator to chase his security back out into the corridor. Once that had been done, Organa and his assistant retreated into the private office leaving the two Jedi to the common room.

The Jedi master offered the padawan a weary smile as Bali curiously studied the lush surroundings. Be wary, Padawan, Obi-Wan sent through their bond.

Yes, Master.

Obi-Wan just stood there for a moment taking in the feeling of the apartment, adjusting to the rhythms that moved silently through it. Beyond the thick walls, he sensed movement and emotions of the beings that lived and worked within the massive structure. The fear of the assassin, political turmoil and general greed bombarded the Jedi as the beings tried to go about their daily lives.

Something lightly tugged on the Force and he turned his attention back to the apartment, searching it. Delving into the very fiber of the room he grasped for the shadow that did not exist.

"Master," Bali rasped.

Overwhelmed by the shock welling in his apprentice, Obi-Wan turned to see what had the boy's attention.

Through the large, gently curving window, offset by the brilliant blue sky, a bright yellow air taxi careened toward them.

"Raise the security!" Obi-Wan barked, motioning the boy toward the doors. Toward safety. Certain Bali was following orders, Obi-Wan bolted the other direction to Organa's office.

A flash of orange erupted from a small mounted weapon on the taxi smashing through the outer wall's protective barrier. The transparasteel glowed with the heat of the blasts as the attacker continued to fire.

Alarms sounded around the building warning of the attack.

* * * * *

Bursting into the corridor, Bali cried out, "Assassin!" He stumbled in shock realizing no one was there. The padawan glanced around, casting out but the surrounding corridors were suspiciously empty.

Alarms bellowed through the halls, indicating the security breech.

He grabbed his comm unit to hail other Jedi in the building but only found static over the channel. Clutching the device, he bolted down the hall to a nearby emergency comm.

Small hands smashed against the dark communications unit as if that would cause it to start working again. Turning back to the corridor, Bali cast out again but it felt as if he were the only one in the building. The only thing that remained was the faint brush of his master through the training bond. They are all gone! He mentally screamed to his master.

Stay in the hall!

* * * * *

Obi-Wan dived across the large desk made of sturdy Alderaan keneer wood, and tackled the Senator and Lome just as the air taxi smashed into the damaged window.

The room violently rattled and shook with the force of the impact as debris exploded throughout. Flying sections of wall and durasteel rained through the office's transparent divider shattering it.

The Jedi's heavy brown cloak created little protection against the falling shards as he sheltered Organa and his assistant.

A crisp, cool wind tore through the wrecked suite as arcs of electricity rippled from damaged conduits. Outside light reflected against the clear shards that scraped and snapped as they were shaken from the Jedi's cloak to the floor.

"Senator?" Obi-Wan asked as he sat up slowly pausing only long enough to see that his padawan was still safe in the corridor.

"I'm fine," the older man grunted as he too sat up. A thick stream of blood down his forehead marred his handsome features as he glanced about. Spying Lome crumbled under debris, he started to crawl toward him.

Obi-Wan grabbed the Senator and quickly pulled him back behind the desk. "No," he said tersely.

"But–"

"We cannot help him now."

Organa withdrew slightly upon seeing the spray of red quickly covering the imported carpet.

The Jedi looked around the desk into the shattered common area. Icy winds blew in from the gaping hole in the outer wall. Yellow durasteel parts were scattered everywhere. Part of the floor was gouged out leaving a jagged path between them and the door. "Is there a back way out of this place?"

"Yes," the dazed Senator said shakily. He pointed toward the doors to the private quarters.

"Are you up to it?"

"Yes," the dark haired man replied, steeling him for the task ahead.

Obi-Wan was the first out of the office. The hum of his activated lightsaber was nearly drowned out by the emergency alarms. He moved slowly, searching the remains of the room for the occupant of the now empty air taxi. Or at least that was what the crumpled yellow shape smashed into the far wall had once been.

He moved cautiously, all the while creating a human shield for Bail as the Senator bolted toward the secret back exit.

tsk tsk

"Is this any way to treat a guest?" The mechanical voice echoed through the room. "After all my troubles, you two are just going to sneak out?" Vengier stepped out into the narrow corridor that led to the private area, blocking the escape route.

Obi-Wan retreated a step quickly bringing his saber up. He shifted to better shield the Senator.

The Sith activated the crimson blade and took a vicious swipe at the Jedi.

In a flash, Obi-Wan blocked the deadly blow as he defensively backed Organa into the common room again. "The front door," he said calmly never taking his gaze from the beast. He kept backing until he bumped into the stalled Senator.

"There's no floor," Organa replied as he looked down into the apartment below.

"Don't worry, Senator, I'll take your life quick and nearly painless. I am often capable of mercy. Just ask Captain Kinyo." The smooth, emotionless mask seemed to stare at the Jedi. "He would tell youif only they could find his head. Shouldn't have involved him, Kenobi."

Obi-Wan narrowed his gaze. "Over the car," he ordered.

The Senator from Alderaan quickly shrugged off the robe of his station and bolted toward the smoking remains of the air taxi. As he climbed over the twisted durasteel, Obi-Wan engaged the Sith.

_____________________________

The Book of the Assassin

The smoldering, crumpled husk of the air taxi severely burned where flesh touched the yellow body making Bail Organa's struggle over the wreckage more difficult. Adrenaline charged his shaken form as he plowed over the debris-strewn floor, focused on the main entrance. Fragments of window crunched under his boots as he raced for the skewed front door. He quickly palmed the controls but was met only with a soft grinding.

The clash of sabers behind the Senator urged him to fight harder with the damaged door. Sweat beaded and stung the gashes in his flesh. The door would not budge. The Alderaan native twisted about searching the debris for something he could use to pry the door open. Jamming a bent piece of durasteel into the sliver thin opening, he forced the door to slide a few centimeters.

On the other side, Organa spied the bright green eyes of the Jedi padawan as he too struggled to open the door.

* * * * *

The hum and crash of lightsabers was nearly drowned out by the wail of alarms but it did not slow the combatants. The black shroud twisted about in the wind that swept violently through the damaged apartment as Vengier leapt about, just out of reach of Obi-Wan's glowing blue blade. The Jedi was by far the expert at saberplay and quickly dominated Vengier's attempts at attack. He moved with great speed and grace, easily bounding around the toppled furniture while continuing to strike at the dark beast. Vengier struggled against the constant barrage, being pushed through the apartment away from the escaping Senator.

With each block and blow, Vengier became more erratic, causing Obi-Wan to retreat a step. The young master feinted an attack but somersaulted the other direction springing around the Sith. Blue flashed as he guided a powerful down stroke at the dark shroud.

Vengier twisted, blocking then slammed the Jedi in the face with the crimson bladed hilt sending Obi-Wan stumbling backwards. "You cannot surprise me. I know all your weaknesses." A sweep of the Sith's gloved hand sent transparasteel shards slicing through the air.

Expertly Obi-Wan dispatched the attack. "You know nothing, Trocha," he growled as he deflected a wild swing.

The Sith laughed cruelly but did not miss a beat, bounding to the side, then lunging for the Jedi. The air crackled with the electricity of the clashing lightsabers. Blue blazed as the blade was thrust into the layers of black shroud. Vengier leapt backward as outer layers of cloak fell to the floor between the combatants as the dark lord slinked away.

Obi-Wan struggled to control his breathing. He had not been ready to go head on into a saber battle and his strength was quickly wanning.

The crimson blade sliced through the air as Vengier rushed the Jedi.

* * * * *

Bali could feel his master's growing weariness and heard the battle just beyond the door. He knew he had to get the Senator out and help his master.

"Get back!" The padawan ordered and would have been surprised that Organa obeyed if he were not so preoccupied. Quickly centering, Bali drew the Force around him like a cloak. Visualizing the power moving through him, he guided it into his arms and hands to bolster his strength. The apprentice made the damaged components bend easing the door's glide back into the wall.

* * * * *

Vengier twisted at the door's squeal against its frame. The Jedi took advantage of the distraction and struck. Sabers locked and broke free. Before Obi-Wan could respond, the dark lord directed a twisted scrap of durasteel at master's back. Obi-Wan tried to strike it down but the twisted metal broke through his defenses, snagging his cloak sleeve and pinning his arm to the wall.

Bringing the crimson blade about, Vengier moved to deliver the deathblow to the trapped Jedi. "You should have listened to me!"

Obi-Wan braced his shoulder against the wall and kicked out, the heel of his boot caught the dark lord across the black mask. Vengier howled at the impact that sent the dark lord sprawling across the floor. In a blur of shadow, the Sith launched a durasteel shard across the room.

* * * * *

Senator Organa gave a pained grunt when the triangular shape tore into his back. He shoved his way through the door, stumbling a few steps before collapsing. Bali tried to catch the much larger man; he could do little but ease the fall to the floor.

The Force called to the boy and just as he tried to respond, he was ripped off the floor in a powerful grasp. A surprised cry escaped him as he was drawn close to the emotionless black mask.

The instant the shock began to wear off, Bali began to struggle against Vengier, grabbing and tearing at the shadowed form. Small hands pounded the hard mask but did little to phase the Sith. "Let me go!" Bali growled just as he landed a kick to the beast's solar plexus and was thrown free, crashing into the wall.

Without further distraction, Vengier ripped the shard from the Senator's back and kicked the barely conscious man over. The black shroud flowed as the dark lord dived down, driving the bloody metal into Organa's chest causing him to make a terrible choking sound as flesh and bone were cleaved apart.

In a flash of brilliant blue, Vengier's saber arm was severed and sent flying harmlessly out of the way. Before the dark lord could react, Obi-Wan's weapon singed the Sith's cloak. He drove the unarmed opponent away from the fallen Senator.

Bolting back into the apartment, the now weaponless Vengier used the Force to cast the scattered debris at the Jedi. Obi-Wan easily defended himself by striking down the broken pieces of furniture as he drove the Sith toward the gaping wound in the side of the apartment.

The cool winds ripped in from the destroyed window, sending the Sith's cloak fluttering all about and revealing a severed servomechanism where an arm had once been. "At least I lost no more of my humanity to you, Kenobi."

"You never had any," Obi-Wan replied as he closed in on the masked figure.

The Sith froze on the edge, precariously close to the newly made opening. "Not everyone can be an honorable Jedi like you," Vengier hissed. The shrouded figure turned to look at the Senate building on the horizon. "A senator is nothing compared to who dies next." The dark lord turned and leapt from the shattered window. Obi-Wan threw himself toward the opening but was left to stare out into the bright blue sky and the city far below.

Vengier was just gone.

Instantly Obi-Wan became aware of the dull thoughts of his apprentice and bolted back to the hall.

Bali was struggling toward the fallen Senator who lay in a pool of his own blood. "Master!" the concerned boy cried out as Obi-Wan knelt next to the fallen man.

The Jedi master reached out and found the thin pulse and the fleeting life of the Senator. "Get help," he said quickly. "Go!"

Bali was on his feet and down the hall in a heartbeat as Obi-Wan pressed folds of material around the wound in the senator's chest as he applied pressure. Carefully he reached out on the Force and called upon its infinite power to slow the bleeding. He was so focused on the task of keeping the Senator from bleeding out that he barely noticed the thunder of footsteps quickly approaching.

"The Senator has been injured," Obi-Wan barked. "We need a medical team–"

The butt of a blaster rifle cut the order short.

_________________________

The Book of Details

Qui-Gon sighed as he turned his gaze back to the expansive window of the Naboo suite. The already intensive patrols had been double, maybe tripled, since the alarms had sounded.

There had been an attack on another senator. Internal communications were still spotty but he had gathered the assassin had used an air taxi. The tower had been under lock down for nearly an hour. Little else of what had happened had gotten out.

"This is Lyka Uan," the HBC reporter's voice filled the common room.

The Jedi master twisted about to study the Holonet report that hovered above the holoprojector Sirceé had brought in. The young handmaiden in formal wear curled up on a couch, her gaze firmly fixed on the fluttering blue image.

"coming to you live from the Senatorial Towers. The is Heig Traigor, we are being told by Senatorial security that we have to leave." The tall, thin humanoid man tried to continue as security forces overran the scene and the image broke up.

"Thank you, Haig," Lyka said as she turned to face the camera from behind her desk. "Reports are sketchy at best. The security is keeping a tight hold on information but we have word that there is a press conference in the works. What we know as of right now: An air taxi was hijacked and flown into the Senatorial Tower. We have word that there was an assassination attack and one Senator and staff member are dead. Two assassins are being held for questioning."

Qui-Gon sighed slightly before addressing the young woman. "Where did Senator Amidala say she was going?"

The Amidala look alike briefly pulled her attention away from images being flashed through the air. "She did not, Master Jinn," came the rather annoyed reply. Her regal posture gave way to that of a concerned young woman. "She said she was meeting with an old friend."

The young senator should have known, Qui-Gon mentally growled. In such uncertain times the first thing Padmé did was sneak off. He should have been informed of her plans. He feared for her life, especially in the face of the assassin's most recent attack. And where was his apprentice? Turning his attention to the young woman again, Qui-Gon growled, "She took no security–"

"She took Anakin Skywalker with her."

_________________________________

The Book of Happy Reunions

"Qui-Gon should have been told," Anakin said dully as he escorted Padmé through the halls of the Royal Coruscant hotel.

"Are you not adequate protection?" Padmé asked as she spun to face the young Jedi. Her stern look fell under the soft tones of her lightly painted face, masked in unruly curls.

"No, Milady, I did not mean it like that."

"You want to go back?" Padmé asked allowing a small grin.

Anakin stopped and quietly studied the trying young woman. Sighing loudly he broke into a wide smile. "You are infuriating."

Reaching out and brushing her fingers over Anakin's cheek, Padmé laughed. "I knew I could get a smile out of you." She paused. "Now, do you want to stay, or should we contact Master Jinn and–"

"No," Anakin answered quickly. "I want to be with you."

Padmé smiled. "Good, because I have a surprise for you."

"Really?"

"No, I'm just joking," she giggled. "Yes, really."

Anakin glanced around the magnificently decorated hotel corridor. "What surprise do you have in mind? After all, you are bringing me to a hotel."

Padmé just stopped and stared at him with wide eyes. "Excuse me? What do you take me for?" At Anakin's look of horror, she started laughing and wrapped herself around his arm. "I didn't think Jedi had thoughts like that."

"I am a Jedi, not dead."

"Oh, maybe I should think twice about being in your company without a chaperone."

"Maybe."

Padmé blushed as she quickly glanced away. "We are here," she said quickly but noted the leering look in Anakin's eyes. The blush brightened her cheeks as she palmed the door chime. "You want to give people the wrong idea?"

"About what?"

The door swooshed open revealing Shmi's thin face.

Anakin just stood there silent and wide-eyed.

"Ani?"

In the distance of a heartbeat, Anakin leaped forward and scooped the frail woman into his arms. His grip was powerful as he swung Shmi around. Tears blinded him and he wished his eyes were clear so he could see her plainly. "I missed you so much," he cried.

Tight in her son's grip, Shmi was barely able to reach up and brush her fingers down the side of his face. "Oh Ani." She started to weep. "You're all grown up."

"I'm still your little boy," Anakin said as he slightly loosened his hold but was afraid to let go for fear he would lose her again.

Padmé quietly closed the door behind her and crept to the small lounge so mother and son could be alone.

Anakin visually searched the older woman's face. "But how?"

Shmi smiled softly. "A very kind young lady bought my freedom."

Immediately Anakin sought Padmé out.

The Senator frowned slightly. "It was Miss Thelo, Supreme Chancellor Palpatine's assistant. It was her family's way of thanking you for your part in the liberation of Naboo."

Anakin just smiled as he led Shmi to the couch.

The older woman was content to be there and hold the little boy that had grown into a man in the blink of an eye. "I have missed you so much," she half wept. "I missed you growing up."

"I was brave," he whispered, gently holding Shmi's hand. "I did what you said. I didn't look back. I am a Jedi now."

___________________

The Book of Long Falls

Far too slowly, the fuzzy blackness warmed up to a fuzzy grayness. Pain reverberated through Obi-Wan's daze mind. All he could remember was pain and then nothingness. Then a fuzzy whiteness moved into his mind and he remembered the Sith, the battle and Senator Organa.

The thought of the injured Senator made him try to call out but all he managed was a pained groan. As the miasma in his brain started to dissipate, the constant chill that had haunted him for years caused him to search for the inviting warmth. He reached for the edges of his cloak but only grasped air. It was a jarring sensation that quickly cleared his vision as he tried to sit up.

Something jammed into his shoulder blade and smashed him back to the blood stained floor. "Lay still!" A gruff order was barked.

The pressure exserted against his shoulder kept Obi-Wan pinned to the floor, but still allowed him slight mobility. He twisted, staring into the corridor packed with blaster rifle toting security personnel. From that position he could vaguely make out the shape of a large security officer that held him prisoner.

"Well?" His captor asked as another man marched into the corridor.

"It don't look good," was the reply.

The owner of the boot shoved a little harder against Obi-Wan's shoulder. "Here that, Jedi scum?"

Obi-Wan closed his eyes at the unmistakable sound of a rifle being readied against his ear. The muzzle was cold against the back of his neck. There was something unsettling about these security guards. They were good men, he could feel it, but there was something else, it was elusive and dark. Something he could not quite–

The boot dug deeper into his shoulder as the guard above him growled, "If Senator Organa dies, so do you."

"You are mistaken–"

The boot slammed into Obi-Wan's shoulder, roughly shutting him up. "Don't want to hear another word from you, mind bender," came the warning.

The roughly placed boot made it difficult for the Jedi to breathe. Even, but shallow breaths was all he could manage as he tried to relax. He cast out and found Bali's warm presence. The bond was quiet but the boy was conscious which left the master mildly concerned. Carefully, he craned his neck and found Bali sitting several meters away against the corridor wall. Another large security officer stood watch over him.

Bali stared blankly across the hall as if he were mentally elsewhere. Bruises had begun to form against the left side of his face where Vengier had shoved him into the wall. In his lap was Obi-Wan's cloak all wadded up and his bound wrists lifelessly lay on top of the brown material. The end of his padawan braid had come loose and it had unraveled, leaving the flame tip tangled and misshapen against his shoulder.

The man with his boot dug into Obi-Wan's back continued to talk. "That was a good Jedi trick, pretend to protect him and when no one is looking off the Senator."

"We–"

The boot smashed into Obi-Wan's spine where vertebrae had once been shattered eliciting a pained cry.

"Shut up, mind bender. Or do I have to take your head off to keep you quiet?"

Obi-Wan groaned. After the initial wave of pain had been dampened he slowly opened his eyes and studied Bali.

The boy continued to stare sadly across the way.

Padawan?

The boy did not answer. Instead, tears began to stream down his cheeks.

Someone came into the corridor. "HBC is reporting that Senator Organa is dead."

Obi-Wan just closed his eyes.

Bali began to sniffle loudly, as the tears grew more insistent.

The boot man spoke. "I say we save everyone time and trouble and do this Jedi like he did the Senator. I've got a vibroshiv that will work."

Uproarious laughter reverberated through the corridor.

That elusive feeling of darkness seemed to be spreading and becoming more maleficent with every passing moment.

Bali broke into a mournful wail.

"Shut up, Jedi brat!" Someone yelled but it only made Bali cry worse.

"He's just a child," Obi-Wan growled then gritted his teeth in preparation for another boot kick.

Instead, the unique sound of a vibroshiv filled the air.

Bali continued to whine and sob.

The boots moved in front of Obi-Wan's vision as the guard marched toward the wailing boy. "Shut up!" he barked.

Freed, Obi-Wan leapt to his feet and threw himself at the guard. Both of them slammed to the ground before anyone could register what was happening. The vibroshiv slid across the floor.

The tearful child was suddenly replaced by a Jedi padawan as the binders fell open, releasing the boy's wrists. From beneath the folds of Obi-Wan's rumpled cloak, Bali revealed two lightsabers. "Master!"

Obi-Wan leapt off the man, as he instinctively called his saber to his hand. The flash of blue immediately deflected a volley of shots that erupted into the corridor.

Snatching up the Jedi's cloak, Bali flung it at a nearby officer draping him in the folds. The apprentice activated his own violet blade and rushed to his master's side.

"Do not harm them," Obi-Wan ordered out loud while deflecting the blaster bolts harmlessly into the walls. The Jedi were overwhelmed and driven back into the apartment. They were quickly pinned between the security and the damage caused by Vengier's attack. "To the opening, now!"

"Master?"

"Go!" Obi-Wan barked. The Jedi master quickly moved to shield his escaping padawan from the closing attack. Turning his attention to the dust-covered floor, a sweep of his hand guided the Force. The disturbed dust was immediately set airborne temporarily blinding the security guards. Clipping his saber to his belt, the Jedi clasped another object as he joined his apprentice. "Hang on." A firm hold around the boy's waist and he leapt from the gaping hole the Sith had earlier escaped from.

Icy wind fluttered through the folds of the Jedi's clothing as they fell passed patrol vehicles beyond the skyline, deep into the city planet below.

Obi-Wan reached out, clutching the compact liquid line gun and fired. The line attached itself to the base of a service pad. The line suddenly went taut and the Jedi's arm was nearly wrenched from his shoulder at the sudden change of momentum.

Bali shrieked as they were whipped under a deteriorating walkway and the line snapped.

_____________________________

Book of Flesh and Bone Part IX

"I feel like you are avoiding me. I suppose that should be expected after our conversation at the park." Halla gave a weak laugh as she struggled with her blue wrap in the crisp evening air. She stepped off the path and over the grass to the edge of a precipice. Far below, the lights twinkled in the Xim village. She turned her gaze to the deep blue curtain of night. "The moons are so full and beautiful tonight, don't you think?" Not receiving an answer, Halla frowned. "The Xim would say: Co Kira togri esulat balitiro. It roughly translates into: No shadows can defeat the light."

A soft breeze shifting through the leaves of distant trees was the only reply.

She sharply twisted to face the Jedi Knight next to her. "In the time you have been here, you have not joined us for a single meal. Our chef has prepared a wonderful Kyettan braised boar this evening. It is considered a delicacy on the finer tables of Coruscant."

Obi-Wan's gaze remained fixed on the village below. "I do not feel it would be appropriate."

"Why not? Can you not share a meal with your hosts? I am certain my husband would be interested in news from abroad. We do not get to travel much." Even in the dim light, Halla was caught by the cold blue eyes that fell upon her.

"I think there has been enough information exchanged," the Knight replied before turning back to the village below.

She did not like the tone in his voice. It would have been so easy to respond with the same callousness that her own master had once used against her when she was wounded, but Halla could not bring herself to do that. Not yet, at least. Putting a warm smile on her face, she continued as if she had never heard his words. "Ighista tells me that I should leave you to your duties. Of course my husband is quite interested in recovering the errant scientist. I cannot imagine why anyone would kidnap her. Ighista explained that this Melorian could clone body parts that cannot be replaced with cybernetics. Or better that we can replace cybernetic limbs with real flesh and bone." She held out a hand toward the knight and studied her fingers. "Can you imagine real skin, real blood and bone? Your own nerves and not something synthetically created? Cybernetics was a great advance in the healing arts but it cannot replace the true touch of flesh against flesh. You will always know it is fake." She smiled. "This new technology my husband is working on can replace organs too. It can fix me. Inside." She placed her hand to her abdomen. Through the material, she could feel the scars of injuries past. "It can make me whole again. This time the Jedi won't take that away from me."

"The raiders. You were injured in an attack–"

"An attack on a ship on a mission that my master took. A mission handed down from the Jedi Council. They all conspired to send me into danger."

"Your master chose to. She could have said no."

"Is that what you believe?" Halla asked softly while shaking her head sadly. "The nearest team was two days away. We were ordered to protect the dowry of some clan chieftain's daughter from pirates. I nearly died on that mission. They didn't tell you that, did they?"

"Halla–"

"No!" Retreating a step from the precipice, she struggled to gain control of her emotions. "I wasn't in any shape to defend against an attack. Amazingly the fall–no, I was thrown–into the vent shaft did not kill me. Although there have been many times I wished I were dead since then." In the cool air evening air, Halla struggled with her blue and green wrap.

Obi-Wan never took his gaze from the village below. "You should have–"

"Been safe in the Temple?" Mirthless laughter filled the air. "They sent us away. They sent me away because they could not have a pregnant padawan disrupting the serenity of the Temple. That would have destroyed the whole air of repression."

"Halla."

"Don't. There is nothing you can say that will change anything."

"You should have told me."

"Why? Would you have left the Order?"

There was a moment of silence. "Yes."

"But you paused."

"If the baby was Force sensitive, it would have been raised in the Temple," Obi-Wan said.

"If. But do you honestly think they would have let you know which one was yours?"

"I would have known." Turned to look at her. "It is not unheard of."

"No, you are right. But how many Jedi mothers and fathers get to train their children? None. I want contact with my child." Her breath hitched. "Doesn't matter what would have been." Her thoughts drifted. "My master had convinced the Chief and his people that I wasn't pregnant, that it was normal foy my species to look like that." More sad laughter escaped her. "The ruse was destroyed when I dragged myself from the vent shaft in labor. I do not even know where my master was. All I remember was the Chief's three wives helping me." The young woman seemed to melt as she slid to the cool, grassy lawn. "I woke in bacta, staring out at my master. She never even got a scratch in the raid. I lost my baby. My master said the wives tried but they couldn't save the baby, I fell to far."

Halla did not look up. She did not want to know how her words were affecting the Jedi. Even if a part of her wanted to wound him like she was.

"As soon as my physical body healed and was repaired my master thought it was best to go back on missions. She believed that now that I was over my little distraction I would be a better, stronger Jedi for it. Master Denshau always believed that they would send the baby to live with some deserving family and I would continue my training. There was no room for compromise in her mind, that was the way it was going to be, end of story. I was going to complete my training."

Obi-Wan studied her but said nothing, which relieved Halla. If he had spoken, she would not have been able to continue.

"I tried to be the padawan she wanted. Everything was fine for a little while, at least until that Rodian cruiser."

"What happened?"

"So you can run and tell the Council? I am sure they are still waiting to find out how my master and two hundred passengers died." She gave a weak smile. "The ship had a reactor failure. Not all of the escape pods worked, besides, there were too many passengers for the few pods. They could not all have escaped."

"What about Master Denshau?" There was uncertainty in Obi-Wan's voice.

"She was dead long before then. You should have seen the look on her face the moment before I opened the air lock on her." Her jewel green eyes looked up at the shocked Knight as her lips drew into a thin smile. Through the Force, she could feel his repulsion at her words.

"How could you?" The words were spoken slow and evenly belying any emotion that could be raging beneath Obi-Wan's cool exterior.

"She was lecturing me as usual. She never stopped after I had awaken from the coma. There was nothing I could do right. It was never right or my heart just was not in it. She had turned to walk away just as a maintenance droid was exiting an air lock. She tried to respond." Halla moved her hand through the chill air mocking a Force push. "I shoved the droid at her and they both fell in. I really was not thinking about what I was doing. I just triggered the door. She was yelling at me. My master was afraid but I didn't want to hear anymore lectures."

"So you just killed her?" The calmness had seeped away, as the Jedi visibly struggled against the horror that was being told him.

"Do you imagine it being all that different than what you did? You bowed to the Council, placating them while I was sent from the Temple. While you were bowing humbly, our baby died."

"You murdered your master," the disgust bled into his voice as he retreated. "The dark side–"

"Only feeds on hate. I do not hate. I didn't hate when I killed her. I did not feel anything at all. Even now, I feel nothing. Not joy or anger, love or hurt, nothing at all." She did not try to move afraid he would retreat from her if she reached for him. "You have killed before, what difference does it make?"

"Only in defense, never in cold-blood."

__________________

The Book of Rough Landings

"Can we do that again?"

Obi-Wan groaned as he slowly turned to face the grinning padawan sitting on the duracrete next to him. "I would prefer not."

A little giggle escaped Bali as he leaned back against the ancient wall they had crashed into and stared up at the looming Senatorial Towers. He watched the dizzying speed at which the patrol speeders wound their way around the structure. "They are searching," he whispered.

"It will take them a little while to figure out where we went," Obi-Wan replied. "I don't suppose you managed to hold onto our communicators?"

Bali reached down and searched the folds of his cloak and then his pockets in his utility belt. He pulled out the river stone. "I still have this."

"I don't think that is going to do much good."

Shrugging, the apprentice placed the rock back in his pocket. He twisted and stared up at the towering structure again. "Do you think they will come after us?"

"Yes," Obi-Wan said plainly as he stretched slightly and slowly got to his feet. "Which means we need to be moving."

"Yes, Master."

The first few steps were slow and stiff. The Jedi master paused to dampen the pain that was raging through his back. "Come, Padawan."

Bali had to jog to keep up with Obi-Wan's quick pace over lower level walkways. Only having the chance to catch up when they were forced to duck under a platform when a low flying patrol speeder cruised passed.

Deep in the shadows of the skyline, the air was cold. Moved by the chill, Obi-Wan tugged at the edges of his cloak only to be reminded that he was stripped of it. He turned back to see the little apprentice trudging along behind him. Bali was also without a cloak and looked particularly disheveled. He paused to brush his fingers through Bali's dark hair, setting the spikes on end and adjusting the ginger tipped padawan braid.

"Are we going back to the Temple?" Bali asked softly while he finished straightening out his rumpled tunic.

"At the moment we are wanted as murderers. It would not be wise to directly involve home."

"We are on our own," the boy whispered softly. Worry marred his youthful features as he glanced up at the Senatorial Towers again.

The walkway the two Jedi had taken gently curved around the massive structure. The rarely seen stone facing of the building's lower levels was a strange sight to both Jedi. It was crude compared to the elegant, modern craftsmanship that had built the upper levels. The visual levels. And yet, the masonry was elegant. Carved figures that had long since turned dark do to the pollution reached out from all angles. The cold, stone eyes in the statue faces of the old Republic silently watched the two Jedi pass.

A quick hand caught Bali and pulled him back a step. Cracks and lines traced the sunken section of walkway before the two Jedi. Obi-Wan reached out and guided the Force against the walkway, it did not take much pressure before the crumbling duracrete collapsed leaving a gaping hole in the path.

Bali stumbled back a step. He quickly cast out, aware of movement in the shadows. "It was a trap?"

The older Jedi nodded slightly. "It is used to catch unsuspecting travelers. They fall, get hurt and are easy prey to be robbed."

"Oh."

The Jedi master cast his gaze back up into the rising city. In the distance, above the lower buildings he could see the spiralling form of the HBC News Corp. building rising pristinely above the shadows. The entire upper level of the structure was a massive view screen. While there was no sound, the images spoke clearly to all of the planet's varied occupants and visitors.

The image of the Senatorial Towers was followed by the image of Bail Organa of Alderaan. The image went dark before flashing on stylized, animated footage mocking Obi-Wan and Bali's leap from the tower. Words crawled across the lower screen in Basic as the images repeated. Senator Organa of Alderaan was brutally murdered by two Jedi posing as his private guard. Tune into HBC for more information.

"But it was the Sith that did it," Bali said worriedly as bright green eyes looked up to his master. "We have to tell them that."

"I don't think they care," Obi-Wan said coolly. Pulling his attention from the view screen, Obi-Wan searched the area around him. Through the Force, he searched the very fabric of his surroundings. The vagueness of the dark Force drew him to a discarded liquid rope gun. The Sith had come this way.

Light glinted off a departing patrol cruiser. The bright blue flash reminded Obi-Wan of the lightning the Sith master had tried to fry him with. He shook his head trying to clear the thoughts from his mind, wondering why the memory had chosen to reveal itself just then. Turning his thoughts back to the Sith assassin that had escaped, he remembered that pause, when the masked figure gazed out toward the Galactic senate.

A senator is nothing compared to who dies next.

"Palpatine!" The Jedi snapped and without hesitating, he threw himself over the broken walkway landing easily on the other side. "Come, Padawan."

Bali looked down at the big divide then made a short run before bounding over it with a little Force help from his master. The boy crashed into the Jedi and they both stumbled backward.

For an instant, Obi-Wan noted the look of pride in Bali's eyes at completing something but then the urgency of the situation came rushing back. "We need to get word to the Chancellor that he is in danger," Obi-Wan said quickly as he sprinted along the walkway.

Beneath them on another level, Bali saw the distinctive glow of a battered pay comm unit. "Master!"

Absently the master brushed his fingers through the boy's spikey hair then leapt over the railing landing near the unit.

Bali quickly followed suit, hesitating long enough to listen to the low whine of security patrols as they broke off their search. "I think they are leaving, Master."

Obi-Wan motioned the boy into the shadows anyway as he ducked into the comm unit's square cell. He called up the comm's audio interface and tried to contact any Jedi in the vicinity. Fruitless minutes passed. He tried Senate security but received little more than static. Gaining nothing but lost time, the Jedi tried contacting the Senate operator.

"Senate, how may I direct your call?" The fuzzy image of an Augerian female appeared as she worked several projects at once with her six arms. Static filled the air as the holoimage fluctuated wildly. "Hello? You image is not receiving."

"Please patch me through to Senate Security."

There was a pause and the Augerian worked the system. A concerned look glazed her thin features as all six arms worked the controls. "We seem to be having internal communications errors."

"Jedi. There is Jedi security, page them."

Again, he waited as the Augerian worked the controls.

"I am sorry, but internal systems are not functioning."

"The Supreme Chancellor Palpatine's offices. Use the secure system."

"I am sorry but that is for an emergency only, I cannot–"

"This will be an emergency if you do not patch me through."

"I cannot–"

"I am sure you are very good at your job. You serve the Republic well." Obi-Wan said slowly with heavily ladled Jedi compulsion. "I must speak with the Chancellor."

"You must speak to the Chancellor."

"Put me through."

"Putting you through."

Obi-Wan's patience was tried as the comm unit buzzed softly. A red circle appeared at the base of the imager indicating the secure line had been activated. The image of Jira Thelo appeared but was quickly breaking up, as the secure line was not impermeable to the attack that had disabled communications. "Supreme Chancellor Palpatine's office," the audio crackled and popped.

"This is Jedi Obi-Wan Kenobi. I must speak with the Chancellor."

Jira hesitated. Even in the distorted image, the fury in her eyes was never obscured. When she spoke the tone of her voice was ice cold. "He is in a meeting with Master Jinn."

Drawing on the Force a second time because he had none to waste, Obi-Wan used the Jedi compulsion to elicit immediate action from Jira. "I need to speak to Master Jinn now."

There was a long pause. The image was gone but the audio remained and Qui-Gon spoke. "Jinn speaking."

"Senator Organa is dead," Obi-Wan said clearly.

"Not–"

"I belive the assassin is heading toward the Chancellor next."

There was a long silence as Qui-Gon thought it through.

"We do not have time for this!" Obi-Wan barked.

Bali just stared at his agitated Master worriedly.

"Where are you?" Qui-Gon finally replied.

____________________

The Book of Duty

Shmi's gentle laughter filled the common room of the elegant suite. "Oh, Ani, I am so glad you haven't lost your sense of humor." She happily wiped joyful tears from her eyes, then out of need reached for her son. Her tear dampened fingers brushed across the smooth skin of his cheek. Visually this was not the little boy she had given up nine years ago, but in her heart, Shmi knew this was her son.

"Sometimes I think I am the only Jedi who possesses one," Anakin said, breaking into her reveries. "Master Windu was not very happy."

Shmi could not ignore the unhappiness in his smile; her joy turned to sadness. "It must be a terribly lonely existence." Her fingers entwined in his. "I thought I was doing the best for you. I had to believe that to go one day after day without your beautiful face." She leaned forward and kissed the young man's cheek.

"You did," Anakin whispered.

A series of muffled beeps filled the air.

Anakin quickly revealed a small comm unit from the folds of his dark cloak. Without bothering to see what the call was about, he moved to shut it off.

"No," Shmi stopped him, pressing a hand over his. "Do not ignore your duties because of me. We have plenty of time to visit."

The young man hesitated and studied his mother before he activated the device. "Anakin here."

"Were are you?"

The urgency in the Master's voice was unmistakable. Anakin rose to his feet. "I am at the Royal Coruscant Hotel." An unnatural pause filled the air. "With Senator Amidala."

"The Senator's life is in danger," came the clipped messages as it quickly broke up. "assassin after PalpatineAnakin?"

"Master?"

"kin? Anakin? GoSenate–"

The message abruptly ended.

Through the training bond he had strangled during his time with his mother, he could feel his master's concern. There was something else, elusive. Just like the communicator, static filled the bond making it difficult to read his master. Something was terribly wrong.

"I've got to go," Anakin said at his mother's worried look. Gentler this time, he hugged her and kissed her cheek like he had a thousand times before.

"Be careful," Shmi said softly letting her boy go. "Be brave."

Anakin kissed his mother's forehead before glancing over at Amidala. "You have to stay here. I'll call for your security after I leave."

Padmé started to say something but the youth was gone.

_______________________________

The Book of Trust

A white patrol speeder broke away from the traffic, drifting into the shadows deep in Coruscant's lower levels. An intense mounted light flashed about illuminating everything.

A loud siren blared, briefly deafening anyone within close range of the security cruiser. As it glided over the crumbling walkways, it continued to sound the siren and sweep the area. The searching light suddenly stopped as the speeder hovered in the air before two Jedi.

Bali could barely see the speeder for the blinding light, but remained on alert as his master had instructed. Although he felt no immediate threat as the speeder sank to the walkway in front of them. The bright light went out leaving brightly colored spots to mar the apprentice's vision causing him to rely totally on the Force for a time.

A soft whir brought Bali's attention to the speeder's canopy as it retracted creating a convertible. A young sergeant stood up in the driver's seat. "Jedi Kenobi and Tiro?"

Through the bond, Bali could feel his master's tenseness.

"Yes," Obi-Wan replied.

"I am Sergeant Vyer. By order of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine of the Galactic Republic, you are to be taken to his office immediately."

Bali studied the young security officer and decided he was telling the truth, at least, as he believed it to be. The boy looked to his master patiently for an answer.

When Obi-Wan did not respond, the sergeant added, "Master Jinn informed him of the threat. He also said you would not trust me because you could not."

Still Obi-Wan remained motionless.

The sergeant slid back into his seat, but did nothing else. He watched the Jedi silently. Worry knitted his reddish brows.

"Come, Padawan," Obi-Wan finally responded and led Bali to the patrol speeder. Be wary.

Yes, Master.

Happily, the young sergeant waved the two Jedi in. "They have been searching for you ever since you didn't check back in." The speeder took off, curving around the massive Senatorial Towers.

The apprentice was completely aware of his master's mildly hostile position. The Jedi was prepared to swing into action at the slightest provocation. Still, Bali did not sense a threat from the sergeant. The cool winds whipped through his tunic and fanned his dark spike hair back. Up in the air felt good, compared to ducking under walkways in the lower levels. He did not like the lower levels. Up ahead lay the Senate and they were quickly speeding toward it.

Vyer pointed to the HBC News Corporation building as they flew passed. He wagged a finger at the massive news display. "Those jokers. They are hacked because we won't give them any details about this assassin attempt or any of the others. They think you two going after that killer are the assassins. Just because they happen to have cameras pointed at the Towers all times of the day they think they have some exclusive news story." He chuckled to himself as the speeder flew through traffic lanes. "We have internal cameras. The ones in Senator Organa's were messed up with static, but the one in the corridor caught that blackthing attacking the Senator. Sorry about that guard cracking you in the head; says he doesn't know what came over him. Just a little over zealous I guess. Can't really blame him though with everything that has been going on. I bet that hurt, but hey, you are a Jedi, you can shrug that kind of thing off, right?"

"Something like that," Obi-Wan responded. "The Senator–"

"He's alive, I think. Still in surgery. Leave it to HBC to screw that up. Internal communications have been touch and go. I'm surprised the Chancellor could get a message through. Strange things are happening."

________________________

The Book of Quick Actions and Slow Reactions

"We must move now!" Qui-Gon barked. The tall Jedi cast about, sensing the darkness flowing around the apartment and activated his lightsaber.

Palpatine slowly stood, carefully eyeing the Jedi. "But my guard–"

"Have proven useless thus far."

"And so has the Jedi's protection," Palpatine shot back. He was forcibly guided from his window view desk to the safer recesses of his office.

Qui-Gon twisted toward the front door but eased back, when he recognized the presence of his apprentice.

The young Jedi jogged in from the assistant's office. The glowing blue blade of his lightsaber already activated. "Master! The security are gone."

"The back way, now!" The elder master ordered and he pulled Palpatine toward the back of the office and a private exit.

"Master!" Anakin cried out.

Like rain, the darkness flooded the room moments before a crimson blade burned through the main entrance door. In a flash of red, the door was gone and Vengier burst into the room.

Qui-Gon swerved, throwing himself between Palpatine and the Sith. For the life of him, he could not understand why the Chancellor was moving so slow. Seeing his apprentice move to engage the Sith, Qui-Gon turned and nearly scooped the man up as he broke into a sprint through the office.

* * * * *

Vengier rushed the young Jedi driving him backward with a series of deadly strokes. More focused against his enemy, Anakin quickly gained control of the battle.

"The Jedi pup is back," the Sith hissed lashing violently out at the youth.

Anakin vowed to keep the beast's words at bay. He would not fail this time. The young Jedi countered the dark lord's increasingly futile attack. A sharp down stroke caused Vengier to bound back a step sending the dark shroud twisting about revealing a mechanical arm.

"Pretty, isn't?" Vengier growled, pointing a golden skeletal finger toward the Jedi.

* * * * *

Qui-Gon vaguely caught the exchange between the combatants, before rushing the Chancellor through the corridor and out a nearly hidden door.

"What was that beast?" Palpatine asked as he tried to twist back and see into the office again.

"A Sith and an assassin," Qui-Gon growled as he hustled the stunned man into a primary corridor. The tall Jedi glanced about but the posted sentries were not there. "We must hurry." He cast out searching for help but the dark Force that had rendered the communicators useless now blocked the Jedi master. For all he could tell, he and the Chancellor were all that remained in the building.

Pulling the reluctant politician around a corner, he was faced by a dozen Senate guards. "Release him!" One of the guards barked as weapons clattered to ready.

* * * * *

"Arrogant, pup," Vengier hissed, chasing the youth across the common room. "You aline yourself with those bent on destroying you."

"I was born to be a Jedi!" Anakin spat. His mother had given up everything for him to follow his destiny.

"You were born a slave!"

Incensed by the Sith's words Anakin strove on. At the edge of his thoughts, he could feel his master's calming presence urging him to find peace. Anakin ignored the call as each clash of sabers became more driven by the anger he had fought so long to control.

"How unJedi like!" Vengier delighted in Anakin's growing fury. "I thought Jedi could show no emotion. Feel nothing." The dark lord teased the youth leading him around the room by the tip of the crimson blade.

With each taunt, Anakin's swing became more erratic. He nearly halved the Chancellor's desk in one fell swoop. The Force swirled in agitation between the combatants.

The slightest motion of Vengier's hand sent statues and fixtures flying at the young Jedi.

Using his lightsaber, Anakin cut much of the debris down, but reached out and Force shoved a large statue that had stood near the Chancellor's desk at the Sith.

Vengier ducked under the flying object then lunged at Anakin, swiping at his chest and slicing through the outer layers of his tunic.

The young man howled and withdrew as pain raged across his torso.

"Jedi frown on silly emotions. Ask your master. He won't let you love her." Vengier laughed wickedly at the shock in Anakin's eyes.

The words bit deep into the youth. If being called a slave had wounded him, the thought of being denied Padmé frightened him.

Vengier lashed out again, lightly nicking his shoulder. "Dare you live your life without the one who put light in it?"

Anakin burned bright.

______________________

The Book of Rising Futility

Bali stood up in the speeder as it gracefully glided along the curve of the Senate building. Cool wind brushed through the padawan's hair as the vehicle approached the Supreme Chancellor's private viewing deck.

Vyer looked to the boy, then to the Jedi master that stood calmly on the hood of the speeder. "That has a high level force field. You'll have to wait until security deactivates–"

"We do not have time," Obi-Wan barked over the rushing wind. The ginger hair blew in the wind, framing the intense blue gaze that fell on the sergeant. "Deliver us to the deck now."

"You can't get in with the force field active," Vyer argued, but reluctantly obeyed the order. He whispered half to himself. "Crazy Jedi thinks he can cut through a level eight force field."

"Master can," Bali said evenly.

The speeder's slow rise came to a halt and hovered next to the protected viewing deck. The sharp winds whipped the Jedi's tunic around as he reached out and brushed his fingers close to the protected dome. The force field twisted and wavered in the golden afternoon light. His fingers pressed through the protective bubble and a large hole formed. "Come, Padawan," Obi-Wan said.

With no more prompting, Bali bounded out of the patrol speeder and through the temporary opening onto the deck.

Turning back to the stunned Vyer, Obi-Wan nodded. "Thank you for the transportation." Then he too leapt into the opening before it snapped closed.

Vyer just sat there not sure how to respond to the ease that the Jedi used to circumvent the best security measures ever designed.

* * * * *

Bali chased after his master through the empty corridor. He grabbed his lightsaber and activated it in unison with Obi-Wan. Through the bond, the apprentice sensed worry. He struggled to keep caught up but Obi-Wan was to fast.

The Jedi stopped just before reaching the first intersection. Pale blue eyes turned to the apprentice. "Find the Chancellor and stay with him," he ordered.

* * * * *

Certain the boy was heading toward the Chancellor and Qui-Gon along with a concentration of beings, Obi-Wan focused on the swirling dark Force ahead in the elegant office. There was something wrongdifferent. He feared that he would be facing more than one Sith beast.

Bursting through the cutaway door of the assistant's office, Obi-Wan found Vengier and Anakin engaged in battle. To his surprise, he could feel the dark side of the Force emanating perfectly between the two.

The Sith lunged at the young man, striking quickly and robbing Anakin of his balance. The angered apprentice lashed out but his focus was lost allowing the Sith to easily block the wild swings. He was quickly driven backward to the wall.

Weapon ready, Obi-Wan approached the fray. "You prove nothing by beating a mere padawan."

The black masked Sith twisted about.

Taking advantage of the distraction, Anakin attacked the dark lord, knocking the beast back. "This is my fight," he growled.

"Back off, Anakin. Your emotions are raging," Obi-Wan said evenly.

"No!" Anakin screamed refusing to step down.

"Assist your master now!" Obi-Wan barked.

Vengier lashed out, the cybernetic fingers gashed Anakin's cheek. The padawan cried out in surprise, retreating a few steps.

The crimson blade sliced through the air and would have ended the youth's life had it not been blocked by a blue saber.

Laughter rippled from the Sith. "My weakness with not get in the way again of killing you, Kenobi," Vengier hissed.

"This is my fight," Anakin yelled slamming Obi-Wan with a powerful Force shove that sent him flying across the room. In a flash, the young man lunged at the Sith, the bright blue blade tore through layers of the shroud.

"You're just an appetizer, pup," Vengier snarled, "Kenobi is the main feast." The red blade grazed Anakin's right shoulder. "I'm saving you Skywalker from a lifetime of broken hearts."

It only made Anakin fight more erratic.

Obi-Wan leapt to his feet but had to quickly withdraw for concern that he would be impaled by the maddened youth. While Anakin kept Vengier occupied, he silently shifted to the Sith's other side.

Vengier twisted about, aware of the Jedi's treachery. The wave of a gloved hand sent a fallen statue of rule from the floor smashing into the back of Anakin's head. The stunned apprentice sank to his knees. Drawing the crimson blade back, Vengier prepared to finish the youth off, but just before the blade connected with Anakin's neck, the dark lord spun and caught the Jedi master in a block.

A mask of determination glossed Obi-Wan's features as he easily drove the Sith back from the fallen padawan. He moved quickly, directing the fight, guiding Vengier into a dead end.

"You can't win against the Sith!" Vengier snapped.

The taunts did not cause the Jedi master to falter. The tip of the blue blade clipped the false arm drawing a growl from the shrouded beast.

"My fight!" Anakin roared leaping into the fray again the young man took a swipe at Obi-Wan slicing into his upper arm.

Ragged breath escaped the exhausted Jedi as he struggled to dampen the pain and regain his bearings.

Vengier easily disarmed Anakin.

The youth barely saved himself from an impaling but could not counter being swept off his feet. The Sith tossed the young man into the wall like a rag doll.

Obi-Wan threw himself at Vengier but had to duck the flashing crimson blade. The Sith lashed out with the remaining flesh and blood arm. Obi-Wan caught the black shrouded wrist in a tight grip. The Force sparked and danced between them before Obi-Wan ripped free of the shrouded figure. "Halla," the Jedi's voice bled softly into the air as the shock sent him stumbling backward.

Vengier did not retreat, instead, delighted in the Jedi's surprise and raced toward him. Disengaging the glowing red lightsaber, the Sith slammed Obi-Wan across the face, then pinned him against the wall. "I didn't think you would ever figure it out, lover," Vengier hissed. Twisting the silver cylinder about, the dark lord engaged the weapon.

Obi-Wan shifted just enough to allow the deadly blade to cut harmlessly into the wall. He turned, pushing the shrouded figure back and slammed his elbow into the emotionless black mask. As Vengier fell backward, Obi-Wan called his dropped weapon back, activating it; he drove it down toward the darkness.

"You would kill me!" Vengier asked, rolling free of the attack.

"Halla is dead." He went after the retreating beast.

"Yes," the Sith replied. "From her ashes, Vengier was born. Do you like what you have created?"

Again Anakin had gathered his wits and weapon and rushed the Sith.

"Anakin!" the Jedi master called out but was ignored.

The dark Force swirled under Vengier's control. The room exploded as the Sith directed the momentum of power. It ripped Anakin from his feet sending him crashing into Obi-Wan. With both Jedi down, Vengier escaped.

* * * * *

"No!" Palpatine demanded as he was pulled away from his Jedi protection made to watch helplessly as Qui-Gon was subdued. The regal older man pointed an agitated finger toward his office. "The assassin is that black shrouded beast in my office!"

___________________________

The Book of Living Nightmares

Bali approached the Chancellor and his security just as they were releasing Qui-Gon. The graying Jedi eyed the apprentice and was relieved to know he and Obi-Wan had arrived safely.

"Where is your master?" Palpatine asked.

The little apprentice remained on alert, his unease showing in the defensive hold of his lightsaber while he scanned the surroundings. The Force flowed easily through him as he tipped his chin toward the office. "In there."

In his few encounters with the boy, Qui-Gon had always been impressed by Bali's instinctive use of the Force. A gift usually relegated to young initiates and non-enlightened Force sensitives. And yet, this boy, who had already seen so much in his young life still possessed that innocence to allow the Force to guide him unimpeded by experience and training.

"Your Eminence," Qui-Gon said, turning to face the politician, "your life is still in danger. I suggest–"

Both Jedi spun toward the office sensing the ripples in the Force.

Immediately, Qui-Gon swept the Chancellor and his guard down the corridor. "Remove the Chancellor to safety now!" From the edge of the master's consciousness, he felt the dark Force flex and lash out. Just for a moment, before the static filled bond with Anakin was strangled to near uselessness, he sensed intense anger.

"Master," Bali half whispered already in motion back down the corridor to the intersection he and Obi-Wan had gone separate ways at.

"No, Bali, come back!" Qui-Gon called out. The darkness was suffocating as it bled into the corridor, drowning out even his impressive Force abilities.

The Chancellor's private guard quickly evacuated the politician leaving the two Jedi in the hall alone.

Just for a second.

The door that Qui-Gon and Palpatine had escaped from swept open revealing Vengier. The Jedi master reached for his weapon but the Sith was quicker. A flash of crimson and Qui-Gon cried out, sinking to a knee. The dark lord had sliced into his upper thigh and bounded around the injured Jedi.

At the pained cry, Bali twisted about and froze at the visage of the black shrouded figure of his nightmares racing toward him.

"No!" The elder master cried out, as he struggled to his feet.

Bali brought his weapon forward. He blocked Vengier's first strike but the Sith was stronger and knocked the saber from the boy's hand. Bright green eyes stared up at the looming shadow. He reached out, calling his weapon back but just as it brushed his fingers, Vengier batted it away and wrapped the gloved hand around the boy's neck.

"No!" Bali screamed as he struggled against the powerful grip.

"Release him!" Qui-Gon barked, limping into the intersection.

"Mine," Vengier hissed, tightening her grip around the struggling padawan and retreating down the corridor. With her cybernetic hand, she held her saber against the side of Bali's head.

The padawan grunted, twisted and elbowed the Sith. "Let me go!" He broke free of Vengier's grip but only made a few steps before the Sith's silver cylinder smashed into the side of his face. As Qui-Gon rushed forward, Vengier scooped the dazed boy up and bolted down the corridor. Entering the protected viewing deck, the crimson blade sliced into the wall severing power conduits. Sparks flew all around the Sith and the captured boy as she raced to the now open deck rail.

Qui-Gon was quickly overtaken and passed by Obi-Wan who sprinted by.

"Halla, no!" Obi-Wan cried out as he raced onto the deck.

"Halla's dead, remember?" Vengier leapt to the rail, balancing precariously. The padawan groaned as the Sith shifted him around slightly. "He's mine now." With that, the black shrouded figure and the apprentice fell backward off the deck.

"Padawan!" Obi-Wan roared as he threw himself at the rail. Before he could go over the edge, something caught him and pulled him back. "Bali!" Obi-Wan cried out struggling against the strong arms that held him.

A hijacked patrol speeder carrying the Sith and Bali zipped away, vanishing into the maddened flow of traffic in the distance.

"Bali!" Obi-Wan cried out, still fighting to get to the railing.

"Killing yourself is not going to help him," Qui-Gon whispered as he pulled Obi-Wan back from the edge of the deck. He roughly twisted the younger man around and was stunned by the shear terror reflected in the pale blue eyes. "We will find Bali," he said firmly, hoping to snap Obi-Wan back to the moment. His bond with the younger man was long dead, but he did not need it. Obi-Wan's normally controlled and concealed emotions were raging for anyone to see. "Padawan," he said gently reaching out for Obi-Wan.

Pale blue eyes focused sharply, the chill quickly returning to their stare. "Padawan?" Obi-Wan growled. "Padawan?" The anger in his voice sounded false and wrong to the older Jedi. "You should be concerned about your own padawan. He is dangerous and out of control. An emotional time bomb that was too interested in taking the Sith himself that he allowed her to escape. My padawan is gone because of him."

Qui-Gon was about to argue, to say something but he had felt Anakin's anger before being closed out of the bond. He knew.

Slowly Obi-Wan walked out onto the deck. He pressed his hands to the intricate patterned rail and gazed out into the city where his padawan had vanished. The grief and concern radiating off the young master was palpable.

Anakin moved silently into the corridor. Bruises marred his handsome features giving his face a dark look as he glanced about.

Strangely, the static that had disrupted Qui-Gon's bond with his padawan was gone, but the strangled sensation remained. Anakin was keeping the bond closed down.

In Anakin's hand was his deactivated saber, he twisted it around in mild agitation at the sight of Obi-Wan on the deck. "It got away?" he softly asked.

"Yes," his master answered.

The look in Anakin's eyes almost made Qui-Gon withdraw a step. "That thing," the apprentice spat, "it was saying–"

The words ceased when he saw Obi-Wan glaring at him.

"It was my kill," Anakin informed them.

As Obi-Wan approached the young man, he spoke calm and evenly, "It was not your kill. Your emotions were raging and you were out of control. She disarmed you more than once and nearly killed you several times. You were not emotionally capable of fighting her. You should have backed down as ordered."

"I could have finished it."

Obi-Wan sighed loudly and lightly massaged his temples. "Ended your own life, maybe, but instead you have placed my padawan in danger."

At those last words, Anakin glanced around as if suddenly realizing Obi-Wan's ever present padawan was missing. "He should have stayed out of the way."

"You are a fine one to talk," Obi-Wan snapped, only to have the tall Jedi master step between he and Anakin.

"Enough," Qui-Gon said sternly, exuding absolute authority over his two feuding padawans. He pulled Obi-Wan away from Anakin and forced the younger master to face him. "Listen to me," the elder master demanded. "Listen. Whatever happened, happened. We cannot change that now."

Obi-Wan nodded weakly.

"The only thing of importance is finding the Sith and Bali." It seemed important for him to address the boy by his name; it would calm the severely agitated Obi-Wan.

Mercifully for the moment, Anakin chose to keep his distance while Obi-Wan continued to fall apart. Qui-Gon sensed worry and grief quickly eroding the cool emotionless shell. There was something else, but he could not pin point it and did not have the time to waste. And yet, the concern grew in the elder Jedi. He had known little emotion except the hurt from his former apprentice in years. "Is Bali conscious?" He did not think so, but felt he had to ask. The Force moved as Obi-Wan drew upon it, guiding it in his desperate search for the boy. "If he is unconscious," the elder master said gently, "we will find another way to track the Sith."

Determined blue eyes met the elder master's. "Not awake, not unconscious," Obi-Wan mumbled his thoughts obviously elsewhere.

"I know you are very protective of him," Qui-Gon said slowly. He noted the lightsaber wound to the younger man's arm and briefly wondered who was responsible. Crushing the thought behind the importance of the moment, he continued, "You have never been separated from Bali before, not like this. All that matters right now is focusing on the bright, shining light at the end of the training bond. Conscious or not you know Bali is there." The tall master silently prayed to the Force that Obi-Wan would find the boy there. He feared what the assassin would do to the boy.

Obi-Wan visibly relaxed. "They are heading toward the Royal Coruscant Hotel."

Panic washed Anakin's youthful features. "Mother," he half choked throwing himself into motion.

______________________

The Book of Terror

The wind was so cold, ripping violently through the layers of Bali's clothing. A soft groan was inspired by the unmerciful pain that radiated through his skull. He remembered the black shrouded creature of his nightmares and then nothing. A small hand pressed to the side of his puffy, bruised face. The Jedi padawan slowly pulled himself into a sitting position in the bench seat of a patrol speeder. The towering buildings and traffic whisked passed at an incredible rate of speed. He glanced around hoping to see the Temple looming up ahead.

There was no Temple. He did not know where he was heading. The city looked so different to his dazed mind. Master Bali called out softly through the training bond for fear if spoken it would make his head hurt worse.

After receiving no answer, Bali twisted about, but the speed in which the vehicle was moving only made him feel ill.

"Master?"

He searched the side of his face to make sure his head was completely intact. His vision was a little fuzzy; at least that was what he thought. Squinting, Bali focused on a big black shape in the drivers' seat. Terror rushed through the padawan as he withdrew.

Fingers searched his utility belt but his lightsaber was gone. The Sith had knocked it away before hitting him. Before sending him into darkness and stealing him from his master. His muffled brain vaguely remembered Obi-Wan calling out just before the Sith escaped.

Bali leaned over the edge of the speeder and stared down into an impossibly long fall. Sinking back into the speeder, fear laced his thoughts. No, the padawan silently chastised himself, that would do no good. There was no doubt in his mind that his master was searching for him. He had to make it easier to be found. That meant the speeder had to be stopped. Bright green eyes quickly swept around the bench seat but found nothing that could be useful.

Wind whipped the shrouds about revealing Vengier's emotionless mask. Her attention was focused on guiding the speeding vehicle through the twists and turns of the megalopolis.

Using the Sith's distraction to his advantage, Bali straightened so he could just look over the front seat. Nothing appeared to be usefulwait. Under the dash, he spied a submission wand. He had seen it used on a trip through the lower levels once. The Coruscant police called them shaker sticks. His master called them a brutal use of authority. The electrically charged baton was used to beat criminals into submission. Hit a being with it enough and they have a seizure, hence the nickname.

He turned back out to the city searching for any familiar landmarks. Pulling at the Force, Bali tried to send a message to his master again but was still blocked. Maintaining his focus, he quickly reached out, calling the shaker stick to his hand.

Vengier twisted but was not quick enough. Bali drove the charged end into the Sith's back. She howled in pain, lashing out with her mechanical hand. Bali leapt back against the seat so not to be clawed and hit the mechanical arm with the stick. Sparks flew. Vengier slammed the speeder into a motionless hover in the center of several lanes of traffic. The sudden change of momentum sent Bali flying forward and smashing into the windshield. The dark lord grabbed at the stick and Bali's foot shot out connecting with her abdomen. As Vengier fell back, Bali struck her again with the shaker stick. Another pained howl ripped through the Sith. The cybernetic hand reached out for Bali again, but the earlier contact with the stick had damaged it and the fingers did not function properly.

"Bad, Padawan!" Vengier growled, springing up and landing on the boy. Bali struggled to hit the beast with the stick but Vengier just laughed. "You remind me of your master. A real pain!"

Bali grunted as he struggled to hit Vengier with the stick but the Sith was too strong.

"Pretty green eyes," Vengier hissed. "What if I pluck one of them out to remind you of your place, Padawan?"

"Not your padawan!" With the Force aiding his strength he hit the Sith, knocking her backward.

Vengier backhanded Bali sending him smashing into the dash. Through the windshield, he saw the first recognizable landmark, the Royal Coruscant Hotel. He struggled to remain clear and send a message to his master but something continued to block him and he could not tell if the message was receive.

He wished his master were there.

Bali kicked out, his reddish, Bantha leather book smashed into one of Vengier's black boots, slamming down on the power pedal. The speeder jerked forward, pitching both occupants to the back. In the melee, Bali lost hold of the shaker stick. He quickly twisted about, seeing it he called it to his hand.

Vengier was quicker, snatching it out of the air.

The thirteen-year-old shrieked in pain as the stick caught him across the shoulders. Tears sprang to his eyes as it smashed into his arm. The pain rippled through his nervous system. He could not breathe for all the screaming. Vengier mercilessly struck him repeatedly. His nerves were on fire and he was helpless to get away from the attack.

"You will learn obedience," Vengier demanded as she jammed the stick into Bali's side.

His throat was torn raw with pain filled cry as he jerked and twisted into a little ball. Tear glazed eyes stared at the blackness of Vengier's shroud. The Sith brought her arm back to deliver another blow, but Bali reacted. Imitating Vengier's ease at disarming him, he batted the stick out of the gloved hand sending it soaring out of the speeder and into the city below.

Every inch of him was trembling as Bali struggled to get back from the menacing beast. He hurt so badly. "Leave me alone," the injured, helpless boy stuttered.

"Never, little padawan." Vengier swooped forward and from the shroud pulled a vibroshiv. "You will learn your place." She tightened her grip around Bali's padawan braid and yanked it, eliciting a yelp. "First we must get rid of this." With barely a tug, Vengier had severed the ginger tip of the braid. Then grabbing the boy's tunic, she tossed him over into the front passenger seat. Leaping over into the pilot's seat, she powered the speeder up and continued on her journey.

________________________

Book of Flesh and Bone Part X

Playful laughter echoed about the stone streets of the Xim village of Cheya. The small, orange skinned younglings giggled as they played space pirate chasing one another toward a small park. Behind them, Halla Keizian was happily dragged along by a trailing group of younglings.

Small, three-fingered hands clutched her cloak and tugged on her long skirt. The half dozen younglings that followed her called her name out playfully in their fluid Ximi tongue.

"Yes, yes, I am coming," the dark haired woman said happily, then repeated her statement in Ximi.

Little voices sang her name as they led her to the park with newly built playground equipment. A young girl with her shock of white hair tried back into intricate knots grabbed Halla's hand and guided her to a nearby swing. Compared to the extensive play equipment, the girl was so tiny that Halla had to help her up and made sure she had a hold of the deep blue rope. "Mai kuro, Di'alo" Halla warned the little girl before giving her a light push.

"Ka nee!" Di'alo squealed in her native tongue. With the prompting, Halla gave the girl a harder push sending her out further. "Ka nee!"

Halla paused and glanced around the park, studying the younglings running about the red soil. Their game still involved pirates, but other young ones with sticks pretending to be heroic Jedi chased the evil mock pirates away.

"Ka nee!" came another excited squeal.

The young woman gave the little girl a gentle push then turned to study the park again. "I know you are out there," she called out, emphasizing the cultured core accent she had allowed to slip over the years away from the Temple. When no reply came, she frowned and returned her attention to the group of younglings that clamored around her. The Xim young were all so small. She loved to brush her fingers through the white bristly hair. Large black eyes that watched her happily made her feel so wonderful. She wished they were all hers.

A boy with a white mohock broke free of Halla's little group and bolted over the red soil before skidding to a halt. "Lo ha empira jeeti," he whispered in awe of the brown cloaked figure that stood before him.

Hearing the familiar word, Halla twisted and smiled at the sight of Obi-Wan staring down at the small boy. "His name is Tolomy and he loves Jedi stories."

Obi-Wan looked uncertain at the adoring glow of the little boy who stared up at him. He tried to step around the short Xim youngling but the boy followed. "I suppose you entertain him with all sorts of tales?"

"Empira jeeti," the boy whispered reverently as he followed the knight.

"Of course," Halla smiled as she continued to push Di'alo in the swing. "I would not think you would show yourself. If they knew a Jedi is here–"

"It would make no difference in the mission."

"Oh."

"Empira Jeeti," Tolomy cooed to the other youths drawing their attention.

"They have never seen a real Jedi knight before."

"What about you?"

Halla frowned. "I am not a Jedi. Nor does my husband pretend to play the part. You are the only Jedi here." The young woman became silent the moment Obi-Wan shrugged into the folds of his cloak fighting a phantom chill. She had known something was wrong the moment her husband had introduced them. "Our chef is preparing a glorious meal tonight. You will join us."

"Thank you, Lady Keizian, but no."

The young woman frowned and glanced away. "You will be busy?"

"Yes."

"Oh." She did not look back at the knight.

"Ka nee!" Di'alo playfully demanded.

Obeying the youngling's squeal Halla sent the swing back into action. "What do you think of the playground?"

Obi-Wan looked about but said nothing.

"I had it built for the little ones. After all, with the colony taking up such a great space on their world I thought I should at least give something back."

"And Master Trocha condones this?"

Halla twisted revealing the fierceness in her green eyes. "You act like he is my keeper." She softened her expression at Obi-Wan's embarrassed look. "No, you wouldn't understand. He is my husband. A concept the Order tried to breed out of us. I am independent." She reached out to Tolomy and lightly brushed her fingers through the white brush of hair. "I do as I please. I have people to transport my special needs."

"Smugglers?"

"Whatever it takes to achieve my goals." She smiled gently. "I would do anything to provide for them."

Di'alo jumped out of the swing and slammed into Halla nearly knocking both of them to the ground. She picked up the girl and held her in loving arms. "These are my children. They are all the children I can have."

"Halla, I am sorry."

"Are you?"

Obi-Wan offered her a curious look but said nothing. Instead, he shifted about, studying the sky, the distant trees, the city around them before finally turning back to the younglings that had gathered close. They watched him as if he were suddenly going to do something amazing.

Smiling softly, Halla carried Di'alo deeper into the park. She did not need to glance back. The younglings would make sure the knight followed. Little three-fingered hands tugged on Obi-Wan's cloak pulling him with them. "Do they make you uncomfortable?" Halla asked, spinning about to face the Jedi.

"I am not used to children."

"I used to love spending my free time in the crèche. Well, at least until my master found out and said it was unhealthy. I think I would have enjoyed being a crèche supervisor."

"You seem fit for it," Obi-Wan replied slowly as he gently tried to extricate himself from the young Xim.

"I would have been a good mother." She paused to hug Di'alo who purred happily in the loving arms that held her. The young woman whispered softly in Ximi into the orange skinned girl's ear opening causing Di'alo to burst into giggles.

"Whu ta empira jeeti," Di'alo laughed as she turned her black eyes toward Obi-Wan. "Mi tee! Mi tee!"

Obi-Wan shifted still trying to free himself of the gathered younglings. Tolomy led the charge to keep the Jedi imprisoned as he kept blocking Obi-Wan's attempts to get away. "Empira jeeti," the little Xim whispered.

The tiny Di'alo wrapped her arms around Halla's neck, hugging her. The former Jedi studied the knight for a time. "I sometimes wonder if the baby would have had my green eyes, or your blue."

A simple question that brought a questioning look to Obi-Wan's pale blue stare.

Halla smiled. "I don't think I have ever felt the Force move like that around you, although I have to admit it is different than when we were padawans."

"What?"

"Oh, don't look at me like that. The high and mighty Jedi Council could not have blocked parental urges. You always knew but the Order was more important."

The knight shook his head as if trying to make sense of her words.

"The question that has always bothered me was did you understand what you were feeling or did you refuse to believe it to justify finishing your training?"

"What?"

"Don't tell me you suddenly became deaf." She frowned.

Obi-Wan marched through the younglings, not allowing them to hold him back. His cool gaze shot to Di'alo.

"She only speaks Xim," Halla said softly. "Doesn't understand a word we are saying."

"Halla–"

Di'alo cooed as she reached out for the knight. "Mi tee!" Surprise clouded the tiny Xim's face when Obi-Wan withdrew from her reach.

"No," Obi-Wan answered firmly. "No."

"Our baby would have been about seven now," Halla continued, not caring if it hurt him. She had hurt for years. It was his turn. "I think it was a boy, he would have been beautiful just like his father." The young woman reached for the knight.

Still stunned, Obi-Wan retreated from her touch.

"But don't worry, my dear Obi." She offered a gentle smile before carrying the little girl over to a nearby bench. "My husband has a powerful benefactor funding his research. Ighista is working on something to fix all the damage the Jedi caused. Everything will be all right."

_______________________

The Book of Racing Destiny

A fast and furious pace marked Anakin's journey across the cityscape toward the Royal Coruscant Hotel. It was perilous to anyone who would get in the youth's way. The patrol speeder he had roughly relieved Sergeant Vyer of zipped through the veins of traffic and punched through the deep arteries of the city. His breath came in quick, short gasps taking in the cool air that made his lungs ache.

The only thing that mattered was getting back to his mother. He had just been reunited with her. There were so many questions; so many things he wanted–no, needed–to know. He had wanted to become a Jedi to free the slaves, his mother, but that did not happen fast enough.

His training had drawn on and although he had often asked his master to allow him to see that his mother was safe it was never allowed. Still the warm place in his mind that had always been Mother had been all right. He knew, deep down that she was okay. Even when life always seemed to get in the way and keep him from making that sworn to journey, he knew.

Now fate and an annoying woman brought her to him.

All Anakin wanted was to tell her how vast the world had grown. He wanted to show her that there was so much more than just the sandy world she had always known. Fear radiated through him knowing it was all on the verge of crashing down.

It was in the formless, unsettling feeling that he was powerless to control but he knew it existed. With every passing moment, he could sense the danger to his mother increase. The urgency just made the young man press the patrol speeder harder. The Force swirled around him wildly as he used it to bolster his speed. The Royal Coruscant Hotel loomed in the distance, vanishing into the clouds.

Anakin had spent half his life learning to protect. What was it worth if he could not even protect his own mother?

That Sith beast would have been dead if Obi-Wan had not interfered.

Force enhanced reflexes barely saved Anakin from crashing as he careened onto a loading platform narrowly missing another patrol speeder hovering off to the edge. He was out of the speeder before it had come to a complete stop and was racing into the building.

The strange feeling of dread bloomed in to terror as the quiet link with his mother exploded in pain.

"Mom!" The young man roared as he tore through the hotel toward the suite he had left what felt like a lifetime ago. Lightsaber in hand, the blue blade slashed through the door impatient to be granted entry. Inside the youth just stopped.

Padmé lay unconscious in the middle of the floor; a deep gash and thick stream of blood marred her beautiful face. He reached out with the Force, instantly verified that she was unconscious but otherwise undamaged.

A shadow in the Force drew the padawan's attention and he bounded after it. Tearing around a corner, the weight of his fear came crashing down sending him to his knees. "Mom!"

Vengier's emotionless black mask was all he could see at first, then the Sith pulled away its flowing black shroud. Black gloved fingers dug into the sun worn skin of Shmi's neck. She pulled the older woman a few steps beyond Anakin's reach.

"Please," the young Jedi begged. He could hardly pull his gaze away from Shmi's terror filled eyes. But he did.

Shmi's pale blue tunic was washed dark red from the blood that gushed out of the gaping wound in her chest. A metal shard jutted from the wound and glinted in the light as Vengier backed up, dragging the dying woman across the floor. "You want your Mommy, Jedi Pup?"

"Leave her alone," Anakin half cried, paralyzed by the vision before him. "Please."

"Should have stayed out of the way, boy. Should have let Kenobi kill me!" Vengier hissed, letting loose a round of wicked laughter as she clasped the durasteel shard, digging it deeper into Shmi's chest.

The newly freed slave gasped in pain. Her voice was thin, "Ani–"

Charged by the dying of the parental bond, Anakin leapt to his feet lunging at the Sith. Vengier ripped the shard from Shmi's chest and pitched it through the air. The jagged edge slice deep into Anakin's arm. The youth wailed in pain as he gripped the wound. In his distraction, Vengier dropped Shmi and escaped.

"Mom!" Caring nothing for the fleeing Sith, Anakin fell to Shmi's side, scooping her limp form into his arms. "No, I just found you again. You can't die. Mom!" No matter what he did, no matter how loud he cried or how easily the Force spoke to him, there was nothing he could do to will Shmi's spirit back to her body. "Mom," he sobbed softly hugging the still form close.

__________________

The Book of Trying

Biting back a whimper, Bali shifted in the back seat of the patrol speeder. All of his muscles ached and trembled but it was getting better. Not fast enough though. The small apprentice sat up in the speeder and slowly opened his eyes. Fuzzy vision stared out into the bright afternoon. He could sort of make out the distant traffic lines.

Something bright was careening toward him. Frozen in place, Bali braced himself against the big shiny blurry thing that was about to smash into him. When nothing jarring happened, the padawan glanced out and squinted making out the shape of a speeder hovering next to his.

Bali twisted about the speeder again, trying to make out his surroundings. The hijacked patrol speeder hovered on a landing platform but he did not know where. The only good thing was there was no sign of the Sith beast. But for how long?

Master?

There was no answer and it frightened him. Reaching through the training bond, he could sense his master's presence but there was something blocking him. The padawan frowned wishing his master would hurry up and find him. He would just have to wait patientlyin the speeder.

If the monster came back and took off, his master would never find him.

Shaking his head, Bali tried clear the mushiness that still had control of him. He did not have time to waste, so the apprentice tried to climb out of the vehicle but discovered his shackled wrists. The binders emitted a low frequency force field that kept them hovering close to a silver box built into the center of the speeder.

It was designed to detain criminals but not made for Force users. Imagining what his master would do in such a situation, Bali tried to manipulate the force field. It twisted and shifted but did not release his imprisoned wrists. After struggling for far too long, Bali gave up, sinking deeper into the seat. In frustration, he tugged on the binders but they were held steadily in place.

Every little movement made him painfully aware of the chopped padawan braid that dangled uncomfortably against his jaw. It was no longer long enough to lay against his shoulder like it was supposed to.

What kind of a padawan was he that could loose his braid? Obviously not a very good one. In frustration he struggled wildly against his bonds and kicked at the speeder's interior. A booted foot smashed through a panel on the wall. The dark haired boy stopped and stared at the damage he had created, noticing a power conduit.

Casting out, Bali followed the conduit through the craft's innards to the power source. He mentally pushed at it upsetting the system's balance causing the power to fluctuate wildly. A series of small explosions rocked the speeder as conduits were fried in the resulting power surges.

The field around the binders flickered but did not allow the boy to break free so he pushed harder.

A thundering explosion caused the speeder to shudder and drop to the platform. The power quickly bled from the system and force field failed.

Using the Force as his master had taught him, Bali guided it into the binder locking mechanisms. With a snap, the binders came undone and Bali tossed them into the seat. Free, the padawan shakily crawled out of the speeder but only made a few steps before something grabbed a hold of him.

______________________

The Book of Escapes

The black shrouded figure glided through the corridor toward the service pad. She would be on her way back to her master in a just a few more steps. The boy was safe in the patrol speeder and when her master got what information he wanted from the pretty child, then he would be hers to play with.

"You monster!" Blue flashed only to be caught by Vengier's crimson blade. Obi-Wan twisted about, breaking free of the Sith's block. Lightsabers crackled as they connected in fierce battle.

"Monster?" She teased as she drove the Jedi Master back. "Is that what you think I am?" She spun, driving her weapon down but it was easily deflected. A quick glance about the empty corridor proved there was nothing to call to her aid. In desperation, she Force pushed the Jedi back.

Obi-Wan responded with a fiercer attack. Controlling the fight, he drove the beast back into the hotel, away from the platform. "Yes," he growled.

"I cared once," Vengier shot back but did not slow her attempts at cutting through the Jedi's defenses. She could not keep this up for long. Obi-Wan easily disarmed her sending the saber hilt flying across the corridor. Bounding forward, Vengier ducked and called the weapon to her hand. In a flurry of black, she jammed the silver cylinder against the master's injured arm. Obi-Wan stumbled and groaned, falling back a step. With the moment of distraction, the shrouded figure shoved Obi-Wan out of the way. "I do not have time for this," she barked and bolted back toward the landing platform.

* * * * *

Bali cried out as he was ripped away from the speeder. "No!"

"Hush," Qui-Gon whispered, holding tight to the struggling youth. When panicked green eyes finally focused on him, the elder Jedi whispered, "We must get out of here."

The apprentice wavered slightly, glancing about the platform. Finally he nodded and tried to follow Qui-Gon's quick pace. "Where's my master?" Bali asked softly as his step became unsteady.

Qui-Gon turned just in time to catch the boy before he collapsed, quickly scooping up the small form. The boy's weariness radiated and made the Jedi wonder what happened en route to the Royal Coruscant. All he could see were the bruises marring Bali's sleepy features.

The dark haired head fell against Qui-Gon's cloaked shoulder as Bali sighed weakly. "It stole my braid." Dark brows knitted together in pain then relaxed. "I didn't mean to loose it."

"It can be repaired," Qui-Gon whispered as he raced toward a service entrance.

____________________

The Book of Anger

Vengier burst onto the landing pad and stumbled at the sight of the patrol speeder sitting dormant on the pad. She spun to face the approaching Obi-Wan. "You again."

The Jedi swiped his lightsaber through the air, preparing to face the beast again. Engaging Vengier, he forced the Sith away from the two patrol speeders. The blue blade sliced into the black shroud inspiring a growl. The Sith's cybernetic hand lashed out, but missed the Jedi.

"Did you come all this way for your padawan? He has your tenacity but I will break him of that soon enough." Vengier inquired, bounding out of the deadly blade's reach. "You're so protective of him. How sweet, but the boy is mine now." Upping the attack Vengier pushed the Jedi back to the waiting speeders. Her master was waiting. She sensed he was getting impatient.

The fight was moving too fast, keeping Vengier occupied as she struggled but allowed the Jedi to push her toward the waiting speeders. Obi-Wan thrust the blade at her but the Sith leapt backward far out of his reach. When the Jedi moved to intercept, Vengier twisted, moving quickly and driving the red blade toward the Jedi's exposed back.

Obi-Wan bounded out of the way slashing deep into the folds of Vengier's cloak shredding the lower half. The material dragged hindering her movement bit the she never gave him an opening.

Vengier freed the torn material and whipped it out at Obi-Wan, catching him across the face. With the Jedi momentarily disoriented, the dark lord tackled him slamming him into the cab of the damaged patrol speeder.

The impact sent the vehicle scraping toward the edge of the platform as Vengier leapt on top of Obi-Wan brandishing her lightsaber. The crimson blade was expertly turned about and driven down on the trapped Jedi.

Kicking free the black shroud that he was tangled up in Obi-Wan pitched it at Vengier and shifted just saving himself from being impaled. As Vengier drove the saber deep into the speeder's seat, Obi-Wan grasped the hilt, using the Force to momentarily pin it into place.

The instant Vengier's grip slipped the Jedi pitched the weapon over the side and into the depths of the city planet. Without hesitation, Vengier went for Obi-Wan's lightsaber. They struggled as the blue blade waved about in the approaching Coruscant evening.

Vengier's clawed fingers, real and faux, dug deep into Obi-Wan's bare hands tearing the flesh. Warm blood slicked the handle as the two continued to battle for control of the lightsaber. In the middle of the fight, she became distracted, glancing about the vehicle. "The child got away!" the beast hissed.

This brought a tense smile to Obi-Wan's lips. He twisted slightly, freeing his hand. The drawn fist connected with the black mask. There was a loud crack and for a moment Obi-Wan did not know if it was the mask or his knuckles that broke as fiery hot pain shot up his arm.

Part of the mask broke away, tumbling over the edge of the craft.

Obi-Wan froze.

A glassy green eye surrounded with mottled, scar-riddled skin stared out.

"Halla?" The Jedi just stared up at the broken mask that only partially covered Halla's face.

"So high and mighty, just like your precious Jedi Council." She twisted the saber around. "My master will be angry for loosing the boy but I will bring him a better present."

Reminded of Bali, Obi-Wan was invigorated, he struggled, sending the lightsaber tumbling to the speeder floor. He reached out for it but a blow to the face disrupted his concentration. He tried to shake off the Sith but Vengier would not have it. From the layers of her shroud, the Sith revealed the vibroshiv she had used to relieve Bali of his braid.

In the struggle, Vengier sliced deep into Obi-Wan's forearm before he could shove her back.

Vengier laughed with a raspy, human voice. "You surprise me, I didn't know you could bleed."

"Sith witch!" With lightning quick reflexes, Obi-Wan grasped Vengier's shroud and threw the dark lord into the front seat. He leapt over pinning the Sith and her hand that held the vibroshiv down. "What made you a cold hearted beast?"

"You did!" She twisted about shaking the broken mask loose revealing her partially burn scarred face. "You left me lying on the landing pad. You left me!"

Obi-Wan struggled against the maddened woman. "You were dead."

"Liar! My master told me you were responsible for my husband's research being destroyed. You robbed me of my happiness." Vengier drove the vibroshiv down stabbing Obi-Wan in the shoulder. The Jedi howled to Vengier's delight.

Using her distraction, Obi-Wan slammed the shrouded figure with his boot. The Sith's wicked laughter turned to a cry of pain as she was thrown out of the speeder.

Calling his saber to him, Obi-Wan leapt out of the speeder going after the fallen Sith. Blue flashed but the winded Sith rolled out of the way, flipping over the Jedi and backhanding him. Obi-Wan was thrown off balance, crashing into the other speeder. The hovering craft glided close to the edge. The Jedi's lightsaber rolled across the landing platform. Both lunged for the fallen weapon, but Vengier landed a swift kick to the Jedi's chest sending him over the ledge.

Ragged breath escaped Vengier as she stared out over the ledge Obi-Wan had fallen over. Gently reaching out, she called Obi-Wan's lightsaber to her and studied the weapon. It may not be his heart but it was a start.

The shroud wafted about as Vengier approached the ledge. She stared down at the city far below. No sign of the Jedi but she was not stupid enough to believe she had so easily rid the universe of him.

_____________________

The Book of Unhappy Moments

"It's okay, Mom. It's okay," Anakin repeated like a mantra as he continued to hold Shmi's still form close. Arms gently cradled her while he rocked. "Mom, please. I just found you, you can't leave me."

Qui-Gon had watched for some time from the edge of the room. From his vantagepoint he could see his apprentice and still check up on Bali who mercifully remained unconscious in a large, overstuffed chair in a small sitting room. He had figured that Anakin did not need anymore emotional burdens in his moment of grief. But the young man's continual rocking of his mother was worrying him so he limped to the distraught apprentice. "Padawan," he gently whispered as he knelt a meter away.

Slowly, Anakin looked up through tear rimmed eyes. The elder Jedi did not think he had felt such emotional pain in his apprentice. Anakin had not hurt this much when at nine he left his mother to become a Jedi.

"I shouldn't have left," the padawan half cried. "I should have stayed and protected her." Anger flushed his face as he gripped the cold body closer. "I should have killed the Sith," he growled through clenched his teeth. "I wanted to kill it! But Obi-Wan wouldn't let me. I should have killed it. Mom would still be alive."

"No, Anakin." Qui-Gon reached out. "This is no one's fault."

Unchecked fury danced in the bright blue depths of Anakin's eyes as he withdrew, pulling Shmi's body with him. "Leave me alone," he replied warily. "I want to be alone."

"Anakin–"

"Go!"

Sighing loudly, for once not knowing how to respond, Qui-Gon obeyed, but only retreated a step. Straightening he tested his wounded leg. It was not as deep as it could have been but it still slowed him. The gray haired Jedi studied the room, finally allowing his gaze to fall on the grim and bloodied senator in the corner.

Padmé looked up sadly. "Master Jinn, I didn't mean any harm. Miss Thelo and I just wanted to do something kind. Her family paid to free Shmi." There was silence as she twisted her hands together in her lap. "She found and brought her here. We didn't mean any harm."

The Jedi master imperiously folded his arms across his chest but his tone remained soft and focused on Padmé. "I do not begrudge you this act of kindness. I am sure Shmi appreciated it, but why bring her to Coruscant?"

"So Ani could see her. She is his mother," Padmé said sternly, her anger drowning out her own sadness. Or more likely, as Qui-Gon decided, her hurt for Anakin, he could see it in the determined young woman's gaze. She never took it from the apprentice.

"This sort of interaction is forbidden by the Order." His own irritation threatened to show through. The senator's silly game may have just made his grasp of his padawan all that more tenuous.

"That is what Ani said. Jira and I thought it was cruel."

"There are reasons," Qui-Gon said evenly. He turned back to study his wounded, broken apprentice.

"Because she was a distraction to him," Padmé said coldly glaring at the Jedi master.

"Because it puts their lives in danger."

The harshness slipped from her face with the calm understanding of his words. Silently she stood and strode passed the Jedi master. Stopping to Anakin's side, she dropped to her knees and wrapped her arms around his shoulder.

Qui-Gon was left to watch his apprentice's grateful acceptance of the interloper.

________________________

The Book of the Damaged

It hurt too much to move. It also hurt too much not to move. A low groan escaped the Jedi as he twisted slightly to stare out into the Coruscant landscape. Helpless, he watched the highjacked patrol speeder bolt toward the myriad of traffic lines. Tiredly, Obi-Wan allowed his head to sink to the grated floor of the service deck below the landing platform.

A tiny maintenance droid, no larger than a fist whirred about, beeping and chirping in agitation at the fallen Jedi.

After nearly being killed by a maddened Halla turned Sith. Falling off the landing pad then nearly having his arm ripped out of its socket by trying to catch the lip of the service deck he couldn't even get a moment of peace and quiet to wish he was dead.

The droid's green paint was scraped and its oblong shaped body was dinged and dented. It looked about like it had suffered the same bad day Obi-Wan had. One of its two sensor antennas was broken off causing it to list to one side as it floated about, still chirping at the Jedi.

"I know, I know," Obi-Wan groaned. "I'm not supposed to be on the service level." He slowly sat up and bumped his head on a low support. Shaking the mild pain off, he brushed his fingers through his sweat dampened ginger hair.

Still chirping and whistling at him, the tiny droid began to butt against the Jedi in a comically in vain attempt to push him over the edge of the deck. The Jedi swatted at the annoying droid causing it to retreat into an alcove. After a moment, the droid flew out and attacked the Jedi only to be roughly swatted away again.

Quickly scanning the support systems, Obi-Wan spied a ladder that looked to lead up to the landing pad. Pushing the droid out of the way, he crawled toward an open space where he could at least crouch.

Chirping wildly, the maintenance droid continued its assault, extending a small arm from an opening in its dented casing and jabbed the Jedi in his wounded shoulder. A small yelp escaped Obi-Wan as he jerked and hit his head on the low ceiling. A cheerful series of beeps ripped through the little green droid. It moved in again.

Reaching out, Obi-Wan wrapped his hand around the oblong green form and sent a pulse through the Force. A pained whistle escaped the little droid as sparks shot out the side. It dropped to the grated floor with a clang. A soft warbled beep then its lights went dim.

Obi-Wan was halfway up the ladder when the droid gave another wounded chirp. He stopped and stared at the pesky little droid then with a resigned sigh climbed down and scooped it up. The least he could do was hand it over to maintenance to be repaired, preferably after he was long gone.

Up on the landing pad, Obi-Wan turned his attention to the damaged patrol speeder abandoned at the edge of the pad. The only consolation in knowing that Vengier escaped to continue her reign of terror was at least Bali was safe. Drawing his attention away from the maddened woman, he focused his thoughts on his padawan. He needed to get to the boy to make sure he was all right.

Walking to the nearest door, Obi-Wan noted a small army of red maintenance droids pouring out of a panel in the side of the building. They were much larger than the little green one he held onto. The fleet of red quickly swept in and started repairing the damage his battle with Vengier had caused.

Inside, the corridors were packed with Senate security and Jedi. Their presence did not stop him as he continued toward the bright shining light of his padawan.

Just about to the room, the Jedi came across a large Bothan who was directing the repairs inside the hotel. The maintenance director gave Obi-Wan a sharp look and growled, "I've cleaned up riots that caused less damage than a couple of you Jedi."

Obi-Wan just frowned and held out the small green droid he had been carrying.

The Bothan shook his head in disbelief. "Leave it to one of your kind to find the only rogue P37 in the entire building. Toss it in the nearest recycle shute. The P37s are too independent and aren't content to doing what they are told to. We upgraded to Y10s about three years ago. They follow orders." He jutted a large finger at the green droid. "That thing is obsolete scrap." With that, the director marched off.

Left in the corridor, Obi-Wan studied the droid that was little more than a handful. Its one remaining sensor antenna dangled lifelessly over the Jedi's fingers. He just did not feel right just throwing it away. Then again he could have fried its circuits and turned the maintenance droid into an ugly ornament. Certainly, he could do something with the tenacious little droid.

__________________________

The Book of Relief

Tightening his grip around the damaged droid, Obi-Wan drew his shields tight and straightened slightly before approaching the secured apartment.

Two burly, heavily armed security officers blocked the door, but it was not them that had Obi-Wan's concern. Qui-Gon and a long time friend, Master Grya E'tulo stood speaking softly. The young master suddenly felt like a padawan who just got caught doing something he was not supposed to do.

Stopping before the two respected masters, Obi-Wan tucked the little green droid behind his back and formally bowed.

The black haired Master Grya returned the bow. "Seems we can call off the search party."

"Where is the Sith?" Qui-Gon asked.

"Gone. Escaped." Obi-Wan paused to carefully rub his aching shoulder. The wound was not as deep as it could have been which left him to wonder whether that was Halla's intention or not. There were more important things to worry about now. "Where's Bali?"

"In the sitting room," Qui-Gon answered softly. "He is all right."

Obi-Wan nodded. A soft chirp sounded from behind the Jedi.

"What was that?" Grya asked.

Slowly the young Jedi pulled the small green maintenance droid out from behind his back. It whistled but otherwise remained motionless. "We had a little confrontation but I am not sure who won."

Grya gave Qui-Gon a knowing look but Obi-Wan did not pay it any attention. He entered the apartment and began searching for his missing padawan. Emanating from the main room, he could feel intense grief and carefully steered clear. The last thing he wanted to do was interfere with whatever was going on, especially when he was certain death by the Sith assassin was involved.

At the sight of the dark brown spiked head, his breath hitched. Even in the dim lighting, Obi-Wan could see Bali's bruised face but the boy remained in a peaceful slumber on a low couch. With renewed energy, the Jedi raced over to the curled up boy. "Padawan," he whispered happily, finding a place on the edge of the chair for both he and the little droid. "Padawan," he gently urged. Gently hands search the boy for obvious injury while he used the Force to make certain. He lightly brushed across a bruised cheek eliciting a mumble before the padawan shifted deeper into the corner of the couch. Through the training bond, he probed Bali's shields and was relieved that the boy was relatively undamaged. "Come on, Padawan, open your eyes."

Bali groaned.

Breathing easier, the master eased off slightly and gently brushed his fingers through the mashed spikes. A callused finger brushed over the bruised cheek, and lightly adjusted the severed padawan braid.

"It stole my braid," Bali said softly, never opening his eyes.

"Not all of it."

Bali huffed and opened bright green eyes to his master. Unhappily he reached up and tugged on the abrupt end of the braid. "Its never been this short! It was like I was dreaming it happen and I couldn't stop it."

"And we will fix it," Obi-Wan said gently.

The boy gave a little nod. "Yes, Master." But worry never left his features. "I messed up big time, lost my braid and got caught."

"It happens to the best of us," Obi-Wan softly reassured. "You must accept that it happened and learn from it so you can be prepared next time."

"Yes, Master." Still the troubled look clouded Bali's eyes. "Master?"

"Yes, Padawan?"

Bali reached up and pressed his hand to the blood stained material covering Obi-Wan's shoulder. "You are hurt."

The master nodded slightly. "It's okay for now. She hit you pretty hard." He studied the boy's bruised face, noting the slight tremor in his hands.

"It was mad after I zapped it with a shaker stick." He gave a proud little smile, but then it faded. "The I lost the stick and the monster beat me with it." The padawan shifted uneasily in the chair. "Kept calling me its padawan."

"Never going to happen," Obi-Wan said evenly. "Never." Closing his eyes and breathing deeply and dispelled the flare of anger into the Force. That Sith beast was not Halla, she would never have beaten a child.

From its place on the couch, the little green maintenance droid gave a warbled whistle.

Bali looked to Obi-Wan curiously. "Master?"

A slight flush fell to Obi-Wan's cheeks. Slowly, he reached down and picked up the broken droid. It gave another pained beep. The older Jedi roughly shoved the oblong shaped object into a surprised Bali's hands. "We will get it repaired and sent someplace where it can do whatever it is supposed to do."

"You broke it, didn't you?" Bali asked suspiciously. He turned the battered green shape around and lightly fingered the broken antenna.

"It was in the way."

"Master, it's just a little PodBot. You could have just shut it down." Bali turned the droid over and pointed to a small, natural indention in the belly. "On/off switch. Most droids have them."

"I'll try next time." Obi-Wan was just happy to see that Bali was not overly traumatized by his encounter. The glowing little padawan was all ready snapping back to his old self.

Bali giggled, still studying the broken droid. "You are going to get a bad reputation among droids."

Playfully, the Jedi reached out and ruffled the mess of brown spikes inciting even more laughter. Bali hugged the droid close and fell against his master's shoulder. Obi-Wan wrapped his arms around the boy. "It will be all right," he softly promised. He was tired and sore but it did not matter, as long as Bali was safe. Movement at the edge of the room drew Obi-Wan's attention. He met Qui-Gon's gaze and gave a little smile. "Thank you," he said softly.

Wordlessly, Qui-Gon bowed.

__________________________

Book of Flesh and Bone Part XI

Everything about this mission bothered Obi-Wan. He couldn't place it but he knew something was wrong. The Force echoed his concern putting the Jedi even more on guard.

After he had completed landing procedures and taken a few moments to gather himself, he triggered the loading ramp. Fingers wrapped tight around the edges of his cloak and tugged, seeking that bit of warmth before he had to put on the mask of a serene Jedi knight. Pulling his hood up, Obi-Wan slowly descended to the private landing platform at the edge of the Calor Science and Engineering Colony on the planet Xim. From under the brown hood, he studied the small port. It was relatively quiet but it was because this was secondary to the primary landing on the far side of the colony where supplies arrived. This pad was for private use by those who could afford the high port costs.

In this case, the honor belonged to the tall man at the edge of the platform in royal blue and gold clothing. His glossy black hair was tied back and waved over the elegantly cut coat. Eyes the color of a Tatooine sunset gazed uncertainly at the new arrival. Several heavily armed men stood at a distance carefully eying the situation. The Jedi was positive they would protect their patron at any cost.

Obi-Wan stopped just a few feet from the base of the loading ramp just before the man and formally bowed. "Master Trocha."

"It has been a long time since anyone called me that," the man said in a deep, rich core accent.

"I am Obi-Wan Kenobi–"

Trocha laughed. "They sent us a padawan?"

Without word, Obi-Wan removed his hood exposing weary eyes and bearded face.

Trocha grew silent, after a moment he began to chuckle. "It seems I have been long out of the loop. Forgive me, Knight Kenobi. The last I remember you were a skinny boy tagging along Jinn's heels." He paused as his eyes twinkled with a thought. "How is the old troublemaker these days?"

"Still raising the ire of everyone he meets," Obi-Wan said flatly.

"I imagined he would have mellowed by this age."

Obi-Wan remained solemn.

"You will have to give him a message for me."

"I am sorry, Master Trocha, but Master Jinn and I are not on pleasant terms."

Trocha paused to study the young Jedi. Oddly, Obi-Wan felt something disturbing in the intense gaze. "Hmm. Seems he can't help but to run off his padawans. Forgive me."

Obi-Wan nodded slightly.

"I have to admit," Trocha began as if the previous moment of conversation had not happened while he led Obi-Wan to a waiting speeder. "I was surprised when the Council informed me that they would be sending a lone knight. I had expected a team to find Qin Luc."

"I am all that is required," Obi-Wan replied without inflection. "I will find her and return her to the Melorians."

Trocha stopped. "She is not going to stay here?"

Giving the former master healer no reaction, he said softly, "No, Master, her people have requested that she is returned to them."

"She is needed here."

"That is not my decision, Master."

Trocha was quiet as he guided the silver speeder onto a road that led to a large house on a hilltop. "I suppose you must do as you are ordered," he said finally.

Obi-Wan studied the plain landscape. The edge of the Xim village the colony sat on had been stripped and landscaped. Everyone working in the colony had their own private housing. Apartments for those in lower positions and houses for the more established members of the science community. Of course, the finest of the homes loomed from the hill they approached.

Ighista Trocha had made a fortune on his scientific advances in cellular reproduction. Its uses eliminated much of the need for syntheskin and simple cybernetics when he could regrow damaged tissue. Still the advances were limited until he could regrow lost limbs or damaged organs. That was the Melorian Qin Luc's job.

A Xim rebel faction claimed responsibility demanding the colony leave their world. Yet, for Obi-Wan, it did not feel right. There had been no other actions from the Ximi before this, so why would they be so bold now? Especially days after the Melorian Federation had requested she return to their world.

Qin Luc was too important to sacrifice on politics. The Senate refused Trocha's request for intervention but the Melorian's held sway and convinced the Senate to allow them to rescue their own. After several failed attempts, the Chancellor furthered it by asking the Jedi Council to aid the Melorian's request.

On approach to the large house, a woman exited and walked out onto the duracrete drive. A very bright, multicolored cloak wrapped around her shoulders but fell away to reveal a two tone red dress. She smiled broadly as Trocha hopped out of the speeder and greeted the young woman. Her dark brown hair blew wildly in the evening breeze.

"Knight Kenobi, this is my wife and lady of the house, Halla."

Obi-Wan bowed formally to the young woman.

"We already know each other," she said as she stretched up and kissed her husband's cheek not really giving the Jedi any attention. "I was only a year younger and we shared some of the same friends."

"Ah, yes," Trocha said softly as he eyed the Jedi carefully.

Halla reached out and brushed her fingers across the knight's exposed wrist. Small flashes passed between flesh. She smiled softly as Obi-Wan looked at her in surprise.

Trocha frowned.

______________________

The Book of Concussions

Obi-Wan silently stalked through the corridor of the healing center. There was no pause in his step as he easily followed his padawan's bright Force signature. Although he was still concerned, he felt the boy was all right. But he had to be certain.

"Are you lost?" Bant called out from behind.

"No."

A strong hand grabbed his wrist and pulled him back. "You must have misheard me," Bant said evenly. "I think you were in that room down the hall." She pointed a salmon colored figure back to the room he had recently escaped from.

"I am fine," the Jedi master answered, wrapping himself in the folds of a newly replaced cloak. It was still stiff and uncomfortable but it would break in with time. "Really."

"By whose definition?" Bant argued. Salmon hands pressed to Obi-Wan's injured shoulder. "It needs checked, or do you want to bleed all over that new cloak?"

Obi-Wan twisted away from his friend. "What about Bali?" he demanded. "You should be taking care of him."

"Dirad is treating him. He is fine."

"I want to make sure."

"Let me check your shoulder first."

The master remained defiant, keeping just out of the healer's reach. "I am fine," he growled.

Bant shook her head. "I was looking for a nice calm day. Nothing crazy. All I wanted to see was twisted ankles and training saber burns. Not putting up with a stubborn master and his far too obedient padawan that always have to rush in and be the hero."

"Bali."

"One of these days you are going to get yourself killed and then where would you be?"

"Someplace very quiet." He folded his arms deep into the sleeves of his cloak. "Bali."

"You have a one track mind."

"I try." With that, he turned sharply and headed for the room his padawan was in. A worried breath escaped Obi-Wan the moment he stepped into the small room. Bali was curled up under the covers of a medical sleep couch. Approaching the boy, to his dismay, he found the little green PodBot wrapped tightly in Bali's fingers.

"He won't let go of it," Dirad said softly. "He's afraid it will get tossed in a recycle bin."

"I have a feeling I won't be that lucky," Obi-Wan softly replied.

At the sound of the Jedi's voice, the little droid warbled a disconcerted series of beeps. Then went silent again.

"He wants to get it repaired," Dirad said, checking a file. "I suggested he take it down to Vu'et in maintenance, he can fix anything."

"Why did you tell him that?"

"He would look a little silly carrying around a broken PodBot."

Obi-Wan sighed. "I was going to get rid of it, but Bali's already attached to the little beast."

"Oh, don't worry," Bant piped up, "It will get used to you eventually."

"What was that supposed to–"

Lacking all nobility and grace, Obi-Wan fell backward, crashing into a small table and finally hitting the floor with a dull thud.

Dirad stepped around the unconscious Jedi sprawled across the floor. "You could at least have sat him down first. It would have saved him from another concussion."

"If he knew I was planning a whammy, he would have stopped me," Bant said plainly as she knelt to check her friend's shoulder. "A day in bacta should fix this right up."

__________________________

The Book of Punishment

"Foolish child!" Darth Sidious hissed. Turning his complete attention to the kneeling trembling figure. "You are wasting my time with your games. I did not want that Skywalker woman dead yet. I wanted the boy to have time to get attached."

"He is in pain," Vengier rasped.

"Not enough." Sidious studied the figure of his apprentice. Her mask was gone. Her face visible. This could be a problem. "You should have killed Amidala while you had the chance." At least without her mask, he could see the fear in the bright green eyes. Two eyes were a luxury.

"It was the Chosen One's mother."

A little too independent, Sidious thought. He had known that when he had discovered her secret dealing with pirates behind her controlling husband's back. Her intense anger and the cold-blooded nature for which she killed had intrigued him. When other potential apprentices had failed to meet his standards, Vengier had lived up to the more important ones.

The dark master had thoroughly enjoyed driving her mad. Filling her head with lies that served to deepen her blood lust. Breathing life into her dying body he incited her need for vengeance against those she believed wronged her.

Crouching in the shadows back on Xim, he had relished the pain in the young Jedi lying among cargo. It was the mental anguish that he had fed off. It had been so easy to make Kenobi believe she was dead.

Even easier to convince Halla Keizian of her abandonment.

Still, he had not planned on Vengier's first act as a Sith assassin to hunt down and murder her husband. Trocha was an encyclopedia of cloning knowledge and in the blink of an eye, Vengier had erased him from the universe. Trocha's death was only a small loss in the grand scheme of things. Besides, the dark master enjoyed discovering new depths her deranged mind would go to for revenge.

But her absolute obedience he had not.

She was too dangerous to continue for much longer, soon if things were not screwed up by the mad woman's zeal, he would have a new, better apprentice.

Sidious raised a pale hand to the kneeling Sith. "If your games have damaged my plans I will kill you." He would have to put her in place to avoid any more trouble. Almost without effort, the master channeled the dark Force through him allowing it to erupt from his fingers. The purplish-blue bolts of lightning arced through the air slamming into Vengier. A shrill, pained cry tore through her. The tattered shroud twisted and smoldered but Sidious did not release his apprentice from the torture.

"Master! No!" Vengier screamed, writhing in pain on the floor. "Master!" In the convulsions, Obi-Wan's lightsaber slipped free of the black tunic and thudded to the floor.

Sidious suddenly stopped. Gracefully he reached out and called the weapon to him. "What have you brought me, my pretty?" he sneered, studying the weapon. At a touch the blue blade erupted from the hilt. "A Jedi's weapon," he cackled cruelly.

"Stole it," Vengier wheezed crawling back into a kneeling position, "when I fought Kenobi. Stabbed him."

"Impressive," Sidious said absently, studying the blood dried to the silver cylinder. "Not even Darth Maul drew blood." He turned his attention to the shivering, damaged form crouching submissively before him. "You might redeem yourself yet. I will not tolerate any more foolishness, Vengier, do you understand?"

"It would have been different had I brought the boy," Vengier argued.

"But bring Kenobi's padawan you did not. You acted foolishly and lost the child. Remember that, my apprentice."

"Yes, Master." Vengier hesitated for just a moment. "He would die for the boy."

"Yes, he would."

_____________________

The Book of Padawans

"Where did they take her?" Anakin asked softly.

"To the central morgue," Qui-Gon responded. He stared at his grieving padawan who sat quietly on the couch. "There must be an official report of her death."

"An autopsy? But we know how she died." Tears streaked down Anakin's face. Hands balled into fits as he pressed them against his knees. "She's dead. What more do they need to know?"

"It is how things work." The tall master approached his padawan, feeling the powerful grief emanating from the young man and not knowing how to ease it. "All who die on Coruscant must go through this."

"Jedi don't."

The graying master sighed softly. "We take care of our own."

"She was my mother. Doesn't that mean anything?"

Resting a heavy hand to Anakin's shoulder, the master shook his head. "No, Padawan. Only Jedi and certain visiting dignitaries can bypass that rule."

Anakin shot up and marched around the room in agitation. Anger blushed his features but it quickly simmered to a pained whimper. His drawn fists loosened and his arms swung limply at his sides. "What are they going to do with her then? Will I get to see her again?"

At first Qui-Gon drew his arms across his chest but stopped, deciding that was the wrong pose to deal with the grief stricken youth. Taking on a less imposing stance he spoke slowly, hoping the apprentice could hear his words through his pain. "We will contact a funerary center."

"Why not at the Temple?"

"She is not Jedi."

"She's my mother!"

The older Jedi reached for the young man but was quickly rebuffed. "Anakin, please–"

Without a word, Anakin grabbed his dark cloak from the couch and stormed to the door. The pain was so great and Qui-Gon was afraid to allow the boy to walk away, so he followed him out of the suite and into the still busy corridor of the Royal Coruscant Hotel.

"Anakin, please, wait up."

Turning angry eyes on his master, Anakin twisted to study Qui-Gon. "I need to be alone."

"Padawan–"

"She is my mother! Every question I ask is met with cold Jedi rules. They don't care about anyone but themselves!"

"These rules are no different for you or anyone else."

"I know, Master," Anakin eerily replied. "I know." Again, he turned to walk away.

"You need to stop and relax. Calm yourself. This agitated manner will not help anything. Meditation will–"

"No," Anakin said firmly, stopping but not turning to face his master again. "I don't want to meditate. I wantI don't know what I want. Just not to be here."

"Padawan–"

Anakin did not listen; instead he marched through the corridors and disappeared around a corner leaving Qui-Gon in the hall alone. He knew that the youth might say he wanted to be alone, but in his heart, he wanted to be with the Senator. Knowing the Naboo, she would welcome him in and comfort him. Certainly, that would ease Anakin's anger, but he feared it would also draw Anakin further from the Order. He should speak with the Council, offer up a compromise in tending to Shmi's body. At least, then Anakin could see that the Order had not abandoned him.

Retreating to the now empty hotel suite, he paused in the doorway. Teams of cleaning droids had already entered and were going about repairing the damage to the main room. Their red, oblong bodies hovered about as several dived in to work on the bloodstained carpet.

One of the arm length droids chattered wildly at him, forcing the Jedi master out of the doorway as another team of droids swept into the room. Deciding it was safer out of the cleaner's way, Qui-Gon went to the sitting room. Blocking out the sound in the next room, he sank to the padded bench seat.

There had been very few times in his life when he had felt completely helpless. It was a frightening, painful situation. Even more so, knowing all he could do was watch. His padawan did not seek him for comfort. Instead, he was running to a young woman he barely knew for solace.

All his life he had bent the rules to accomplish his needs and had willingly allowed the Force to guide him in these actions because it spoke to him in a way it spoke to so few. He had always imagined that Anakin would hear that same voice and understand the Force's siren call. He had thought Anakin would understand that everything, no matter how insignificant was important to the greater order of the universe. The elder Jedi had held out hope even as Anakin grew older and lost interest in the smaller things. Anakin's pride was just a phase, he had convinced himself, but after years, it never went away.

Worst of all, Anakin was still emotionally attached to a mother he had not seen or communicated with in nine years. For all of Qui-Gon's attempts to help the young man over come this critical flaw it came to nothing the moment Shmi was re-introduced into his life.

It left the venerable Jedi to wonder if he had not made a mistake taking the boy from his mother. Yet, everything inside of him demanded that he had done what must be done. Anakin was the chosen one.

Weary midnight blue eyes studied the chair across the small room. The one he had put Bali Tiro in. After all of the excitement, he had managed to get a summary of what happened to the boy from Master Grya, who was leading the investigation. All he could think, was what a brave boy Bali was to face up to the living embodiment of all Jedi nightmares.

After the ordeal, Qui-Gon felt surprised and a little saddened to see the boy feeling uncertain and that he had failed. The boy had survived–relatively unharmed–a confrontation with the Sith that had critically wounded a saber expert and ended the life of another Jedi as well as countless others. Maybe what was more surprising was just how quickly the boy rebounded, due in no small part to the reassurance offered by his master.

He had seen it several times and each time amazed by the shelter provided in Obi-Wan's warm smile. The little apprentice could not help but to thrive in such an environment. Bali had a good master.

__________________________

The Book of Rough Treatment

"Just you be stubborn," Bant growled as she not so gently wrapped bacta soaked bandages around Obi-Wan's damaged shoulder.

"You would think there was something wrong if I wasn't." Obi-Wan's grin turned to a wince as Bant roughly tightened the wrappings. "Careful."

"Careful?" The healer laughed bitterly. "I should have had you sedated to keep in bacta longer." She huffed and continued her work. "I should just knock you flat on your back again."

"I would like to see you try. Ow!"

"Maybe I should." Bant sighed loudly as she finished tying off the bandages. "You could have lost the use of your arm or worse, your life."

"I could have lost Bali."

Bant said nothing as she quietly studied his bruised, scarred back. "You really need someone to check your spine."

"It still works."

The healer poked a finger against a mildly swollen area eliciting a grunt. "Notice after a day in bacta, it's still inflamed. Tell me that doesn't bother you."

"It doesn't." He did not offer any explanation or excuse. Instead, sat silently staring at the wall.

From the corridor, a shrill scream brought the entire healing center to a halt. The scream ripped from one end to the other.

Bant grinned at the sound of her distressed padawan. "You know, one of these days, Liril will outgrow that. I will probably be deaf by then but she will grow out of it. I hope." The shrill scream sounded more distant this time. "Bali is just fine."

"I wish he would leave her alone."

"Oh, yes, because you were the most perfect little padawan at that age."

"Bant."

"Don't Bant me. I seem to remember a time when you–"

The exam room door swooshed open and Bali ran in. He quickly and mercilessly hopped up on the exam table jarring his wounded master.

Obi-Wan groaned.

"Master Dirad told me to," Bali said cheerfully showing no signs of the earlier trauma except the clipped padawan braid.

"He would," Obi-Wan playfully growled as he wrapped his arms around the boy causing Bali to burst into a fit of giggles. Raising his voice slightly so the lurking Master Healer would overhear, "I see where Bant learned her wonderful bedside manner. You are a bad influence on her."

Dirad's grinning yellow face appeared in the doorway. "Says you who will be the ruin of that boy."

Obi-Wan clapped his hands over Bali's ears. "Shh, the boy idolizes me."

Bali giggled happily falling up against the master's chest. "My hero!" he teased.

"You are both incorrigible," the elder healer laughed.

After Dirad had disappeared, there was a strange silence. Then Bant chose to speak up. "So Anakin's Mom was murdered by the Sith?"

Obi-Wan nodded but said nothing else.

"But I thought she was on Tatooine."

"Was being the operative word," Obi-Wan replied as he slipped off the table and grabbed the clean tunic that was waiting for him. He twisted slightly and winced as pain shot up his spine.

"You've got some bruised muscles back there. I recommend rest," Bant told him gently.

"I don't have time for that." Obi-Wan gingerly pulled his tunic on.

Bali quietly watched the two, but said nothing. Instead broke into a smile at the sight of the little green PodBot peeking around the door. The droid flew into the room.

At the sight of the annoying little droid, Obi-Wan ordered, "You, get away from me."

Wild, agitated chirps filled the air. The little droid had been repaired. A gold antenna replaced the broken black one but its voice was still broken. Warbling, unsteady beeps filled the air. It tried to butt against the Jedi's wounded shoulder and Obi-Wan swiped at it but the PodBot had learned its lesson and quickly got out of the Jedi's way. The little droid gave a mocking chirp at the unhappy Jedi.

"Come here, Warbler. Master doesn't like you." At Bali's happy voice, the tiny droid flew to the safety of its new master but couldn't resist another series of indignant beeps thrown at Obi-Wan. "Keeper Vu'et fixed it. Well, he couldn't find a small enough voice box so that did not get fixed. That is why I named it Warbler." Bali gently pulled the droid out of the air and little fingers handled the gold antenna. "He didn't have a black one but offered to paint this one. But I do not know. I kind of like it. It's unique like me." Happy look left the padawan just as his shoulders slumped slightly. "Like I used to be."

"You will always be unique, Padawan." Wounded by the pain in the apprentice's eyes, Obi-Wan reached out and fingered the cruelly severed padawan braid. The boy winced as if there was physical pain associated the damage. "We will fix this."

Bant, who had been silently watching the scene in amusement, spoke up, "You know, we could just accelerate the growth and lengthen your braid. Then it would all be your hair."

"But I like my flame tip," Bali replied, twisting Warbler around in his hands unhappily. The little droid made a sound akin to a purr but it was just the effect of its damaged voice box.

"Then we will make you flame tip," Obi-Wan said as he lightly brushed his fingers through the boy's short spikes. "Now about this droid–"

"Warbler. It likes to be called Warbler."

"Fine, about Warbler, keep it quiet in the corridors, keep it in the apartment except during your own time. It does not accompany us on missions–"

"But it's an electrician bot," Bali interrupted but was quickly silenced with a stern look from his master. "Forgive me, Master, I didn't mean to interrupt."

Obi-Wan nodded, dismissing the error and continued, "Above all, and never forget this, Padawan, keep it away from me."

Bali giggled. "Yes, Master." Releasing Warbler, the PodBot flew around the room checking things out but never missing a chance to chirp rudely at the Jedi Master.

___________________________

Holonet Broadcasting Company

"in a concerted effort with Senate Security, the HBC reported Senator Bail Organa of Alderaan was assassinated to protect him from further assassination attempts. This report however was false. The Senator's safety was foremost in our minds and our sympathies go out to his family as he struggles to survive the attack by the mysterious assassin who has plagued the Senate in recent months.

"Senator Organa's spokesperson released a statement say the Senator is expected to pull through and is currently in an undisclosed location receiving treatment. The Senator's spokesperson also wishes to extend a special thank to the members of the Jedi Order who rescued him.

"In other news, the conflict along the borders with the Aveniar is turning into a full scale civil assault. Both sides are reporting moderate casualties as the battles intensify"

___________________________

The Book of the Wise Little Green Troll

"Changed, much has in my lifetime," Yoda said as he hobbled out onto the balcony where Qui-Gon Jinn stood silently. "Too crowded, it has become."

The tall master twisted slightly to study the diminutive figure next to him. He had expected to be summoned back to the Council Chambers. "Master?"

"Hmm," Yoda grumbled. "Tall you are, hard to look up."

Stifling a small sigh, Qui-Gon knelt. "I was looking to spend a little time alone, Master."

"Spent enough time alone, you have."

There was a long silence before Qui-Gon tentatively answered, "I have much to contemplate, Master."

"Hmm."

At least the little master did not insist on interrogating him, Qui-Gon though dully. "About my padawan–"

"From the moment we enter the Temple as infants, we are taught to trust in the Force. It is our companion, it is a part of us that we cannot exist without. We suffer when our connection is removed. We are relieved when the Force rushes back to us." The small master raised his head, taking in the dying day's final rays. "Know only trust in the Force we do for it cannot betray us."

"Master–"

Yoda's hand flew out and smacked the kneeling master's knee with his gimer stick. Just as quickly, the serenity returned. "Not only the Force we must trust. Without trust, we are alone."

Qui-Gon opened his mouth but the gleam in the troll's eye kept him silent.

"Great trust was put into you today, yet I sense you are still blind to it." Yoda studied the other for a time, then sighed, allowing his small shoulders to sag a little. Shaking his head, he announced, "Decided on your padawan, we have."

The younger master stiffened slightly. "And?"

"Pain he is in. Hurts it does to loose someone so close." Yoda shook his head sadly. "Understand this we do. Time to mourn, we will give young Skywalker. Bury his mother he should. Regain his focus on training he must." The last words were spoken with that gravelly, serious tone that defied anyone not to obey.

Qui-Gon wordlessly nodded.

Yoda sighed softly before turning his attention to the busy skyline. Raising large eyes to the distant horizon, the ancient master breathed, "Complete his training, you must."

"It is going well."

The little master turned sharply to eye Qui-Gon suspiciously. "Sense I do, reservations you have."

The tall Jedi straightened, making his spine rigid. "He is farther advanced than his age mates."

"Prideful it makes him as it makes you."

Taking a slow, easing breath Qui-Gon paused so not to speak sharply to the respected master. "It is hardly Anakin's fault that he learns faster than others." Frustration welled in him, unhappy that Yoda always sought to undermine his training of the boy.

"Learns the motion, but does not spend time learning the meaning." Yoda shook his head sadly. "Seek not in the Force for guidance he does."

"That is an unfair assessment," Qui-Gon bristled. Anakin did not need this put upon him, not now while he was grieving over his mother. Not now that his master was harboring doubts. "I know you were the most against the boy's training–"

"Against it I was for a reason. Tactics you employed were wrong."

"You have to see that Anakin is–"

"The Chosen One he may be, but does not excuse your actions."

Qui-Gon leaned back slightly. "Master if you want to berate me for the past, please find a better time."

Yoda's ears twitched in agitation.

The younger master rose to his full imposing height and bowed to the small figure. "Forgive me, Master, but I have things to attend to." With a sweep of his cloak, Qui-Gon turned and marched away from the balcony.

"Doubts you must not harbor," Yoda said softly. "Too much depends on it."

________________________

The Book of Plans

The static quickly cleared from the blue holoimage of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine. A soft look of grief fluttered across his burden worn features. "This day has brought such strain and tragedy."

Padmé nodded, as that was all the strength that remained. Her face was bruised and her head ached. Still, she knew she should be thankful that her head remained attached to her body.

"Such grievous news," Palpatine sadly shook his head. "I do hope you are well?"

"As best I can be, considering everything. And you, Chancellor, after all the attack was originally on you."

"It is one of those occasions that reminds me of the importance of the Jedi Order to my place in the Republic. Master Jinn's presence aided you in our struggle against the invading Trade Federation nine years ago. It was he, whose reaction saved my from this terrible assassin's attack." There was a slight hesitation. "How is young Skywalker? I have been meaning to offer my condolences."

"Mourning." Padmé straightened slightly still feeling a little shaky. The thing in black had raced at her so fast that she never had the chance to scream before everything went dark. The next thing she knew, Anakin was weeping over his mother's body. "He has returned to the Jedi Temple." She hesitated a moment. "I was planning to have Shmi honored in traditional Naboo funeral rites."

"That would be wonderful." Palpatine checked something off screen. "The least I can do is aid you in this endeavor. Miss Thelo is at your disposal. She will attend to anything you need."

"Thank you, Chancellor."

___________________________

The Book of Strained Conversations

"Master!" Bali giggled yet tried desperately to stifle the laughs. Although he did not imagine the circle of masters in the heavily sound and Force-proof Council Chamber could hear laughter in a room that was always solemn and quiet.

A smiling Obi-Wan lightly tugged on the padawan braid he was in the midst of repairing eliciting more laughs from the boy. "Keep it up, Padawan, and you are going to look very funny with a pink ribbon for a braid."

"You wouldn't!"

"Have I ever lied to you?"

"Well, there was that time on Alderaan--"

"Forget I asked," Obi-Wan laughed as he finished braiding the ginger strands. Tying the braid off with a few more strands of hair, he released the newly fixed braid. "We'll deal with the markers when we have time," he said indicating the missing blue and red strands that represented a padawan learner's achievements.

"Yes, Master," the thirteen-year-old obediently replied as he slid across the bench slightly to catch his reflection in the deep green marble panels next to the chamber doors. Relief filled the apprentice at the sight of the completed braid as he played with the ginger flame tip before turning back to his quiet master. "If I loose my braid again, I won't have any of my own hair in it."

"I realize it cannot always be helped, but please, try not to," Obi-Wan said softly. "Master's are not supposed to loose their hair keeping their padawan's in braids."

"Is that what happened to Master Winmmphmfm."

Obi-Wan grinned at the bright green eyes that peeked out over the large hand clasped over the apprentice's mouth. "You just love getting me into trouble, don't you?"

Still gagged, Bali happily nodded.

"Just remember, if I get tossed off the balcony, I'm taking you with me."

"Yes, Master," was the muffled reply. The boy quickly turned; surprised to see someone had approached them unnoticed. He smiled at the tall, graying master who slowly took a seat at the bench across from them. A quickly stolen a glance at his own master and wonder if he had known of the approach. Deep down, he knew his master had always been aware. Without prompting, the boy rose to his feet and bowed to Qui-Gon. "Thank you, Master Jinn, for helping rescue me."

"Of course," Qui-Gon answered softly, nodding his head.

Obi-Wan gave a suddenly weary smile as he turned his gaze to the new arrival. "Yes," he said softly acknowledging the other man's presence, "thank you."

Again, the elder Jedi silently nodded while he continued to study the young master and the apprentice that sank back to the bench. Within moments, the silence became unbearable. "Ah, youth," he began, "they rebound so quickly from strife."

Bali brightened. "Master told me he also lost his braid when he was a padawan. And that it is only hair and it would grow back. It does not change who I am." The little padawan smiled proudly.

"Your master is a very wise man."

"That's what everyone says, but he's just master. Still makes me eat my tirup greens." He shook his head in mock sadness.

The padawan's exuberance inspired a smile in the graying master. "Consider this a consolation, Padawan Tiro, your master couldn't stand them at your age either."

Bali looked curiously at the solemn faced Obi-Wan. "You said you liked tirup greens."

"I do now," Obi-Wan replied with a mischievous grin then brushed his fingers through the short dark spikes causing the padawan to giggle.

Qui-Gon quietly watched the interaction of his former padawan with the boy. Something moved in the deep blue depths. "It is quite interesting," he said, breaking up the joyful moment between the two. "Just earlier I had a conversation with Master Yoda on trust. I see in how you interact together. What a strong bond you have. Great trust. Amazing. I can see what a formidable team you will be."

"We are a team," Bali answered innocently.

"Indeed you are," Qui-Gon quickly replied but stopped short the moment Obi-Wan gripped at the edges of his cloak and drew it tight around him.

Just then, Bali stole a glance at the graying master and thought he saw remorse flutter across the other man's face but it was gone just as quickly as it appeared.

__________________________

The Book of the Scarred

Silent, like a specter, Darth Vengier glided through the corridor of the darkened structure. Power to the building had long since been disrupted but the nearby lights of the Industrial District gave an eerie red glow to hooded figure's surroundings.

The dark lord moved quietly into a large room that had once been elegantly decorated, most likely a ballroom in the early days of the new Republic. But now grime and vandals had robbed the immense chamber of its beauty. Soot blackened the walls and floors leaving a trail of delicate footsteps. The Sith had always found comfort in the wide-open room but now it seemed cramped leaving her feeling trapped.

Vengier paused in the center and pulled back the black cowl that hid her unmasked face. Bright green eyes searched the room but found it as empty as the shell of Halla Keizian. After all, that was all she was in the end, a shadow of her former self. Anger, hate and revenge were all that remained. That and flesh but even it was transient.

Hands struggled with the black glove freeing a pale hand and paler fingers brushed against the scarred flesh of the side of her face.

The mottle skin remained to remind her of her obedience to her master. He had scarred her to punish her for killing a stupid Naboo woman out of malice.

It had been such fun to watch the pretty Naboo writhe and beg for mercy as she slowly bled to death from wounds sustained from being tossed into a Rechar briar patch. The thorny vine was so sharp it could slice through flesh as easily as the finest vibroshiv. After watching the spoiled witch rob a poor child of a beautiful Hydarian rose it was all Vengier could stand. Making the pampered woman eat the thorny stem was a delight to the Sith. She had not had so much fun since her days back on Xim.

Last she had heard, the villagers still feared the return of the Mogu Nyui: the avenger of the younglings. The villagers had learned the hard way that if they harmed a youngling their bodies would be found broken and dangling from the trees in the village center. It took only a dozen bodies before the habitually abused children was left unharmed.

Those were the days, Vengier laughed unhappily to herself at the memory. She longed for the days when she answered to no one, least of all a demanding master.

How dare he chastise her! He wanted the slave woman dead, what did it matter if she died now or later? Skywalker was already too attached to a mother who had abandoned him to the galaxy. She had sensed his need, desire, anger at being called away from her after just being reunited.

The shroud wavered just above the floor before Vengier sank to her knees. Weariness consumed the dark figure. Her battles had been many throughout the day. Even the thrill of the horror in Anakin's face as she pierced his mother's heart with a metal shard did not outweigh the day's losses.

Kenobi still lived. She so desperately wanted to see him suffer for all the pain he caused her. Even the simple joy in taking his lightsaber as a trophy had been robbed of her by her master, Lord Sidious. He had no right taking it from her.

Still, Vengier knew she should be grateful her master did not find her other prize.

From the folds of her tattered shroud, the pale hand produced the two-tone padawan braid. Bright green eyes studied the plaited strands curled in her open palm. Her fingers brushed over the ginger and brown strands that had once belonged to her traitorous lover and the child he so desperately defended. A much-vaunted prize if ever there was one, if only she had not been forced to beat the child into submission to obtain it.

Beat the child into submission.

At first, the figure began to shrink into herself, vanishing into the shadows of her shroud as the words mercilessly clung to her.

Beat the child.

The thought echoed against her tortured mind. Soft weeping turned to wails then became shrieks of agony.

She had relished the fear in the boy's eyes and reveled in the madness of the moment. All she wanted was to hurt him. In the child, she saw the man she lived to destroy. Saw the concern and caring that was so easily demonstrated in the simple brush of fingers through thick brown spikes. Most of all, she saw a well-loved child. One of which, Obi-Wan Kenobi did not deserve.

_________________________

The Book of the Master and Padawan Part X

Sweat glistened against Bali's forehead as he moved to block the blue blade. His training lightsaber crackled against his master's powered down weapon.

"Pay attention, Padawan," Obi-Wan said, easily driving the boy back.

"I am," the eleven-year-old growled through clenched teeth.

"You are too busy defending yourself," the Jedi master said as he continued to easily dominate the battle. "You must look ahead. Anticipate your opponent's movements."

Bali struggled but every attempt ended in failure, his master was too fast to keep caught up with. The boy swung only to be nearly disarmed by the powerful block. Grunting the apprentice ducked away from a swing and caught his master's saber. Breaking away Bali was force to block again.

"You are not paying attention, Padawan. What am I doing?"

"Winning," Bali growled, barely blocking another of his master's strikes. He desperately tried to pay attention to his master's graceful movements. It was easy to see how the Jedi was such a formidable warrior. Unfortunately, he could not study the Jedi and block at the same time. His master was fast and at first that was all the boy could see. He watched Obi-Wan turn and strike and each time he allowed his left side to be exposed. Still, the Jedi moved too fast.

"What do you see?" Obi-Wan pressed as he continued to drive the padawan across the practice floor.

Quickly Bali blocked a down swing and the moment Obi-Wan drew his saber arm back, the young apprentice struck. Lightning quick reflexes were not enough to save the master from a singed left side.

"Very good," Obi-Wan said as he sank to his knees showing a bit of weariness in the pale blue gaze. "That is what it is about, finding a weakness in your opponent."

"Yes, Master," Bali grinned, "but you let me win."

"No, Padawan, you found that on your own." A wicked smile as the Jedi brushed his fingers through the damp brown spikes. "There's just no guarantee that will be my weakness next time."

Bali's pleased look quickly faded at the sight of stern Mace Windu approaching. "Master," the boy said formally as Mace came to a stop in front of the Jedi and apprentice.

"Master," Obi-Wan replied as he slowly rose to his feet. "What brings you to this particular training room?" The words were spoken seriously even if the smile was not.

"Master Kenobi, Padawan Tiro," Mace greeted formally then broke into a wide smile. "I thought I would see what bad habits you are teaching the boy."

"Seems you have mistaken me with someone else," Obi-Wan said as he adjusted the saber setting. The glowing blue blade hummed dangerously.

Mace eyed the empty practice floor. "Appears everyone is afraid to share the same room with you. All those silly flourishes could easily lop a head off." He waved his hand about the air mocking Obi-Wan's fighting style. "The more economical the better," he said evenly.

"Ah, yes," the younger Jedi teased, "your style is as economical as they come?"

"But of course,"

Bali deactivated his training weapon and started to withdraw from the two posturing masters. It always ended the same way so he decided to get out of the way as soon as possible.

Both Obi-Wan and Mace turned on the retreating boy and asked in unison, "Where are you going?"

"Someplace safe," Bali replied as he bolted across the floor to the viewing deck staircase.

"Coward!" Obi-Wan playfully called out.

Half way up the steps, the grinning boy turned and shook his head only to be playfully dismissed.

Then the two Jedi masters turned to size one another up.

"You know," Obi-Wan said, "if anyone saw you heading this way–"

"We are going to have an audience," Mace finished showing a little too much pride in that statement. "Certainly we need witnesses to watch me break the tie."

"You?" Obi-Wan laughed as he loosely swung the saber through the air, readying himself. Then deactivating his weapon he paced to the edge of the practice floor as Mace did the same to the opposite corner.

Both men acknowledged one another with a curt nod.

In the blink of an eye, violet and blue clashed. The air crackled as the two combatants lashed out at one another. Obi-Wan was the first to break away. He swung his saber about quickly driving the older master backward. Mace quickly countered blocking a wild swing, twisting about and delivering a powerful down thrust.

Obi-Wan flipped out of the way of the violet blade. He hit the mat with a light thud and clipped Mace's sleeve. "Flourishes, huh?"

Mace twisted the hilt in his hand and suddenly drove the weapon backward singing the younger man's thigh. Obi-Wan leapt backward blocking the powerful attack.

Blades locked and clashed against each other as they slid down to their respective hilts. Neither combatant willing to break away as they both pressed into their weapons.

"How many?" Mace asked.

A quick glance about the practice room and Obi-Wan breathed, "A couple dozen."

"That all?" Mace broke free and swung dangerously chasing the ginger haired Jedi across the floor.

Obi-Wan leapt, flipping over the senior Council member singing his other shoulder. "At least you are letting me win."

"Oh, I don't think so!" Mace countered and blocked but the younger man had the upper hand.

As the battle raged on the viewing deck and bleachers filled with the curious and the awe filled to watch the friendly battle.

Obi-Wan spun blocking the other's strike.

"Quit playing around," Mace taunted, "and fight me."

"Okay."

With that demand, the battle quickly intensified. The flashes of their sabers moving so fast that the viewers had trouble keeping up with the movements.

Mace decidedly gained the upper hand keeping Obi-Wan in a constant state of blocking.

Bali closed his eyes for a moment and hoped his master would gain control. He knew it was just a game between the two masters but with the growing crowd, he wanted them to see his master win.

The violet blade breezed passed Obi-Wan's defenses singing the master's shoulder, then just as quickly caught his wrist nearly disarming him. Another blow unbalanced the younger man and Mace quickly drove in to finish the battle.

A swipe of the violet blade sent Obi-Wan tumbling backward but he easily leapt to his feet, quickly dodged a devastating strike and parried. Mace struggled to get his footing as Obi-Wan quickly drove him to the edge of the mat.

Mace leapt, catching the edge of the bleachers and bounded off them. He flipped over the younger man's head and just as he landed caught Obi-Wan in a block. The two sabers sparked and flashed but neither man broke away.

Obi-Wan smiled and suddenly released the pressure he was exerting. Mace did not and he flew forward, crashing against the Jedi. They hit the floor and Obi-Wan kicked him sending the elder master flying over his head. Mace hit the floor but carefully honed reflexes allowed him to easily roll and quickly regain his footing. Turning he stopped as the tip of Obi-Wan's blade rested just below his chin.

Both remained frozen in position, eyeing each other.

The silence was shattered when the crowd went wild with cheers and applause.

"You wanted an audience," Obi-Wan grinned with a weary laugh as he offered the other a helping hand up.

_____________________________

The Book of Explanations

The circle of twelve silently watched the three Jedi who stood in the center of the Council chamber. Their unrelenting gaze made Bali uncomfortable as he struggled to pay attention to Qui-Gon Jinn's report.

"Senator Amidala is arranging Shmi Skywalker's funeral. He is," there was a strange pause in the Master's words, "in attendance. This has been a great tragedy for Anakin and he will work through this, given time to heal."

The thirteen-year-old focused his attention toward the expanse of windows even as his thoughts reached out to his master.

"Hope we do," Yoda answered for the others, "that this does not interfere with his training. Dangerous time it is for him."

"It will not," Anakin said evenly as he marched into the chambers and took his place by his master's side.

Bali could sense the surprise in both his master and the older Jedi. He never even sensed the important padawan's approach.

The graying Jedi master quickly stifled a surprised expression. "I thought you would be–"

"I can do nothing for her now. My place is here at my master's side."

The words warmed Qui-Gon and he turned to face the Council with a small smile. Yet, those same words made Bali nervous.

As soon as everything settled, Ki-Adi Mundi turned his attention to Obi-Wan. "Tell us, Master Kenobi, about this assassin."

Obi-Wan took a deep breath, but the hesitation was too long and Depa Billaba spoke up, "Master Kenobi?"

The carefully studied younger man twisted about to face the voice and nodded slightly in understanding. He spoke slowly so not to have to repeat it. "Halla Keizian."

"Not Trocha?" Mace asked quickly.

"No."

Qui-Gon's eyes widened at the casual pronunciation. "Ighista? What about him?"

Mace shook his head as he leaned forward in his seat but never removed his gaze from Qui-Gon. "There was some suspicion that Trocha was behind the assassinations for revenge against those who shut his cloning facilities down. Many of those assassinated were either in business with or helped put him out of business."

The tall master huffed and shifted, folding his arms tight across his chest.

Undeterred by the action, Mace continued, "When you revealed that the killer was a Sith naturally our suspicion fell to Master Trocha."

"You of all people should have known Trocha would never turn," Qui-Gon growled.

The senior Council member did not respond.

Carefully Bali stole a glance passed the two masters and caught sight of Anakin looking to Qui-Gon curiously.

Plo Koon cut in with a betrayal laced tone, "He left the Order to pursue matters of questionable ethics."

Master Nevian, a reddish skinned humanoid with black eye tattoos, the newest member of the Council spoke cautiously. "What of Keizian? A rogue former Jedi accused of mass murder?" He paused to study the four in the center of the room. "It seems unlikely that there were no suspicions directed toward her prior to this encounter that cost a woman her life."

Anakin's expression darkened at the generic description of his mother.

Quickly shifting his attention to the circle of masters, Bali wondered if any of them noticed.

"She was believed dead," Obi-Wan answered without addressing anyone in particular.

The words captured Qui-Gon's attention and he turned a surprised expression on his former apprentice. "Why was she believed dead?" He asked evenly.

"Because I saw Master Trocha murder her." There was no inflection, no emotion in the words Obi-Wan spoke. His pale blue gaze stared out, unfocused.

Reaching through the bond, Bali brushed his master's thoughts, they were partially shielded but his master was not closed off from him.

"Deceive eyes can," Yoda spoke up. He studied Obi-Wan carefully.

"I felt her die." Every fiber of his shattered being had felt her life leave her. He couldn't even be there for her in those last moments, as she died alone.

Bali wanted respond, if only to send a little pulse of reassurance through their bond but it was stopped. Seized in the moment a wash of anger breezed through the Force. Sensing its source and too young to know complete control, Bali turned his gaze to Anakin.

Mace shot Qui-Gon a sharp look forcing the elder master to acknowledge what they all sensed.

"My padawan," Qui-Gon hurriedly began, "has recently suffered a trauma and in your wisdom have given him leave–"

"No, Master," Anakin immediately responded. "I do not wish to take time off," he stepped forward, "as I said, there is nothing I can do for her now. I will have the rest of my life to mourn her loss. Right now, there is a Sith, the enemy of the Jedi and the enemy of the light out there. This Sith, whoever it might be, is responsible for many deaths, including my mother's. I am certain, Masters, that it will be responsible for many more. I want to be involved. I want to help find those responsible and bring them to justice."

Qui-Gon smiled proudly and placed a reassuring hand on Anakin's shoulder.

Bali silently edged closer to Obi-Wan.

_____________________

The Book of the Crowded Corridor

A soft, questioning beep sounded in the busy Temple corridor. The sound repeated as the small PodBot flew quickly through the hall searching for its boy. Warbler dodged and weaved its way around the many Jedi making their way from one destination to the next. The gold and black antenna swivelled about but the little droid did not slow down.

"Yes, Padawan, but the Council has given you leave." Qui-Gon Jinn said as he appeared around a corner, struggling to keep up with his tall apprentice. "Take this time, Anakin, to grieve."

"I will have all my life to grieve," Anakin replied as he suddenly stopped and faced the graying master. Sadness danced across his youthful features before quickly being hidden in a mask of Jedi calm. "Let me help, the Council has allowed it." He paused, thoughts shifting. "I need this, Master. I need something to do."

Concern radiated in the older Jedi as he studied the dusty little boy who had become a man. "I am concerned is all, Anakin." He placed a hand against the youth's shoulder. "This is an emotionally trying time for you."

"I am fine." Anakin pulled away, glancing down the busy corridor. "I must return to the Senator. We are still her protectors, are we not?"

"Of course."

Warbler approached the two stopped Jedi without offering them any attention. The little droid would have easily zipped passed if Qui-Gon had not stepped into its path. The small dinged green shape smashed into the large mass of dark brown and was sent careening into the wall. A dull clang rang out through the corridor as the droid flew about unsteadily before gaining control again. Chirping rudely at the tall man, Warbler spun around and flew off returning to its mission. A low, uneven whistle escaped the PodBot as it continued searching for its boy.

The elder Jedi gave a weak smile, fondly remembering the child Anakin had once been. "Too bad you out grew playing with droids. That one looks as if needs some work."

"At least I can fix it," Anakin said softly. "I'm supposed to be this great Jedi and I can't even save my mother."

_______________________

The Book of Softly Spoken Words in Noisy Places

"When do you think we will have to go, Master?" Bali asked, practically chasing after the ginger haired Jedi who marched through the crowded corridor.

Obi-Wan suddenly stopped to face the inquiring green eyes. "I do not know, Padawan." There was a pause, and then he spoke slowly, "I do not want you coming on this mission."

The little boy froze at the calmly spoken words. They had seemed so loud even over the din of the busy hall. Feeling something akin to being dowsed in cold water, panic poured through the small thirteen-year-old. "Master?" It took all of his strength to muster that one word. He was horrified by the knowledge that he was to be left behind and yet, it was nothing compared to how upset he became when the pale blue eyes never looked at him directly. Instead, the young master's gaze dully sought out the activity at the far end of the long corridor. An uncertain voice questioned again, "Master?"

There was strangely no emotion in his master's gaze. "I want you to stay in the Temple," Obi-Wan replied more firmly. "Return to your classes. I'm letting you get behind again."

"I'm always behind," Bali answered with the painful honesty of his existence. He would always be behind and being at the Temple would change nothing.

The masters on the Jedi High Council had not forbidden him to go, Bali decided as he thought back to the earlier meeting. Master Windu had said that rumblings from the Senate indicated a war resolution was quickly coming to pass. It would be a good time for the Sith to make a move. Even Master Yoda explained that he sensed something wrong, feeling the dark side was moving but he could not determine its source. "But Master, the Council said we would go–"

"Yes, Padawan, but I am your master, and I can choose to exclude you from this mission."

At the words, Bali's lower lip trembled slightly as he struggled not to show how upset he was. His master had never kept him from a mission before. "Am I not a good padawan?"

"You are an excellent padawan," Obi-Wan replied, placing a reassuring hand to the boy's shoulder. "This mission is too dangerous."

"But I have been on dangerous missions before. I don't want to stay behind. I want to help. Please, Master."

"No."

"But Master–"

"No." Obi-Wan sighed softly. "You are not ready to go back out into the field. You need time to recover."

"I feel okay."

"No, Padawan."

"I want to go."

"No and that is final. You have studies to tend to."

Bali reached through the training bond and found it partially closed off. Still, he received an unspoken response to his silent query. Stay and be safe. Study.

The master folded his arms across his chest and spoke evenly, "Do as I say, Padawan. Do not disobey me. Not this time."

All Bali could do was nod weakly but the tears that he had struggled to hold in check broke free. Fists brushed the tears away in embarrassment and frustration. He felt like a baby being sent to his room. He was supposed to go on the mission to protect the Senate. He was supposed to be at his master's side. "Master," Bali begged one last time.

"Do not disobey me, Padawan," the words were firm and filled with warming and so unlike any his master had given him before.

"Yes, Master," the boy mumbled weakly. Struggling for calm but not finding it, Bali stared to walk away.

"Where are you going?" Obi-Wan asked softly, the surprise in his voice was nearly drowned out by the sounds of the corridor.

"To study, isn't that what I'm supposed to do?" The apprentice did not wait for an answer. He just walked away. He understood what happened, after all the Sith monster had captured him and taken off. There was no reason to be angry with his master, because as Bali saw it, it was his mistake and now he couldn't be trusted on a mission.

After only a short distance and Bali felt safely beyond his master's reach, he slowed a little. Something in the corner of his eye caught his attention. The little green PodBot quickly weaved its way through the corridor to the unhappy boy. It chirped questionably.

A small smile leapt to the boy's face. He reached up and snagged the little droid out of the air and held the small oblong shape. It gave a low, damaged whistle that sounded like a soft purr as Bali carried to droid through the corridor. "Master would be upset if he saw you flying around by yourself," Bali whistled to the PodBot. "He's already upset."

Warbler chirped warmly at the boy, who carried it through the Temple toward an unknown destination.

Bali just sighed. The black shrouded monster had rushed so fast at him he didn't know what to do. He was so frightened. He didn't mean to get captured. But his master had said it was all right.

It wasn't.

_____________________

The Book of Funeral Preparations

"Will they even let you attend?" Jira asked carefully as she stopped her flower arranging. Her sad gaze sought out the only other person in the funeral chamber.

Anakin Skywalker paused, shifting the wood in his arms slightly. "They don't have much of a choice, I will be here regardless." Shaking his head, he sighed and spoke bitterly, "They gave me leave to tend to her, then I must return my focus on my training."

Jira nodded but remained silent. Dressed in more subdued tones, she reverently moved around the plain chamber placing beautiful, imported flowers from Naboo in traditional vases. All of which, she had specially obtained at Padmé's request. "I hope you don't mind that we are honoring her in the Naboo tradition."

"I saw a Naboo funeral when I was nine. It was better than the kind the Jedi offer their dead. Besides, I wouldn't know how to honor her." He gave a small smile. "Thank you."

"It is my fault, really."

"Because you brought her here?" Anakin asked. "No. It isn't. She could have died some other way and I would never have seen her. At least I got that. I got to tell her that I loved her one last time."

Jira gave a sad little smile as she continued the preparations, pausing long enough to watch Anakin cover the bier with wood shipped from Naboo. "And that thing that burst into the hotel room. I am glad I wasn't there. I don't think I could be as strong as Senator Amidala. I would be a puddle of jelly right now instead of preparing to address the Senate on the approaching war."

"I would have killed it," Anakin growled his voice echoing off the stone walls as he studied the patterns the wood made on the bier, "if Obi-Wan had stayed out of my way."

"He seems like the kind of person who wants to control everything," Jira said bitterly clutching a thorny stem tightly and drawing blood. "I tried to be nice–"

"You weren't born and bred a Jedi," Anakin replied allowing his anger to show through before quickly masking it. "You are beneath him." Prompted by the long silence Anakin turned to see Jira's hurt look. He tried to give her a friendly laugh. "Don't be too upset about that. I fall into the same category."

"But you are the hero of Naboo," the blond said in surprise.

"I was a slave before then."

"Oh." Jira whispered unable to understand how the young man could speak so plainly of a horrible past. Turning back to her duties, Jira hesitated, catching sight of Anakin's lightsaber hilt clipped to his utility belt. "I bet he never even offered his condolences."

The words seemed to catch the young man. Something elusive shifted in his blue eyes. "All he does is worry about that pathetic padawan of his," the apprentice growled. "The kid's supposed to be stupid or something what I heard." Fingers brushed across the cool stone of the bier. "Not even worthy of being a Jedi."

Jira suddenly piped up, "Master Kenobi will never understand all that you have given up and lost until he loses something just as precious to him."

"Exactly."

______________________

Holonet Broadcasting Company

"the Senate is convening. Supreme Chancellor Palpatine is expected to announce the passing of the war resolution"

________________

The Book of Keeping Innocence

Soft footsteps padded through the small apartment, stopping at the door to Bali's room. The doorframe creaked when Obi-Wan leaned up against it and studied the boy at his desk. For a short while, all he wanted was just to quietly stand there and wish the moment would never end.

Bali never looked up from his studies, but a rude chirp from the little PodBot quickly drew it away. The small green form rose up from the corner of the desk and let loose a series of agitated beeps and whistles at the master that had so terribly upset its boy.

It flew at the Jedi master, but the apprentice reacted quickly, reaching with the Force and pulling the droid back to the safety of his hands. "Don't," the boy said softly to Warbler. "I'm supposed to be studying."

Sighing, Obi-Wan walked into the room and sat down on the edge of the sleep couch. "Padawan," he said firmly.

"It's okay, Master," Bali said dully as he twisted the purring droid around in his hands. "I understand." He turned in his seat. "I should be there. I know I messed up, but I can do better."

Obi-Wan shook his head. "You didn't mess up, Padawan."

Frustration knitted the boy's brows together. He set the temporarily quiet PodBot back on the desk. "But I did and now you can't trust me on missions."

Reaching across the space between he and the boy, the Jedi master clasped Bali's creamy colored tunic and ripped the boy out of his chair. Bali stumbled forward and crashed into the sleep roll. Still clutching the boy's tunic, Obi-Wan pulled the padawan close until there were nearly nose-to-nose. "Listen, my very young padawan learner."

Bali squirmed against his master's hold while Warbler perked up. The gold and black antenna focused on its boy. "Master," the apprentice growled.

"Who told you I can't trust you on missions?"

"You won't let me go."

Still holding Bali close, Obi-Wan explained, "That has nothing to do with it. Listen to me, Padawan, you survived a harrowing ordeal and I can't keep throwing you into these situations. You are too young to have to face all of this."

"But I'm a Jedi."

"And a little boy." Obi-Wan shook his head sadly. "I didn't have to face some of the things you have had to, but the things I did I have had to live with for a very long time. You have already faced the greatest enemy of the Jedi more times than most of your age mates have been outside the Temple. Take this, Padawan, and be a kid for a little while longer. Worry about homework and go swimming, because when it goes away, it is never coming back. This innocence will be forever lost."

"Master–"

"Don't argue with me." He loosened his grip of the child. Fingers lightly played with the flame tipped padawan braid. "I need you to stay here and be safe. I have to go and I can't do this and worry about you at the same time."

"Yes, Master," Bali answered weakly. "But Master Spex said–"

Pale blue eyes searched the unhappy padawan's bright green. "Do not worry about what Master Spex said, worry only about what I say." The words were gentle, yet radiated authority. "Understand?"

"Yes, Master." Bali looked up at the weary Jedi. "You're leaving now, aren't you?"

Obi-Wan nodded. He brushed his fingers through the boy's short spiked hair eliciting a small smile from the padawan. "Finish out your day. Meet Bant and Liril at the dining hall."

Bali nodded even if he was struggling deep inside.

"Don't torture Liril, all right?"

"Yes, Master."

"I'll be back soon."

"Be careful," Bali said softly as his master slowly stood up.

"Always, Padawan."

The boy watched his master leave all the time wishing he knew how to stop him. Instead, he just sat there until the Jedi had left the apartment.

A soft chirp shattered the silence of the room.

"Come here," the boy said, reaching out for the tiny droid. Warbler rose from the desk and hovered across the short distance to the boy's outstretched hand. Holding onto the little droid, Bali stood and quickly gathered his lightsaber and cloak. Whispering to the green droid, Bali said, "After Master leaves, we'll go too."

___________________

The Book of the Master and Padawan Part XI

Several times throughout the night, Bali had been startled out of his nightmares but sleep and the black shrouded beast always returned. It was too much for one night. Ever so quietly, he had dragged a blanket into the small common room and curled up on the couch. It was soft and cushy under the twelve-year-old's sleep deprived body, but it did not ease him into a safe and sound slumber. He would just sit there until morning when the monster couldn't get to him.

Under the folds of the blanket, Bali gripped the cylinder of his newly built lightsaber. He had worked so hard to pass the saber trials to earn the opportunity to build his own weapon. No more training saber for him. The Padawan smiled at the thought. It meant he wasn't a little kid anymore. He was a Jedi. His master had been very proud of him.

Clutching the weapon tight, he knew that no monsters could get him, not as long as he had a lightsaber and stayed awake. Everything would be all right.

"Padawan?" A sleepy voice called out from the darkened sleep rooms.

Bali remained frozen for a moment, then sighed loudly. "Yes, Master?"

The lights came up low just as a disheveled Obi-Wan wrapped himself in the folds of his cloak pausing only long enough to study the curled up figure. He rubbed sleepy eyes and walked over to the couch.

"I'm sorry," Bali said softly, shifting around under his blanket.

"For what?" The master asked sitting down next to the boy.

"Waking you up."

"Well, yes, I would rather be asleep. And I am certain you would too."

Bali quickly shook his head in an exaggerated no.

"Oh." The ginger haired Jedi reached into the blanket and pulled out the lightsaber Bali still had a death grip on. "Want to talk about it?"

The boy frowned. He looked into his master's concerned expression and gave up. "Bad dreams."

Obi-Wan laughed tiredly, "Don't tell me, you dreamed you were before the Council and discovered you weren't wearing any clothes."

"No," Bali half laughed. "That's just silly."

"Really? I dream it all the time."

Bali giggled but then quickly sobered as he looked to his master for support. "There is this monster. It chases me."

"Maybe it wants something," Obi-Wan softly reasoned.

"It wants to be my Master."

Obi-Wan pulled the small apprentice closer. "Well, it is just a bad dream," he said defiantly. If he believed it, then so would Bali.

"You won't let anyone else train me?"

"No, you are my padawan to torture."

Bali giggled and leaned back against his master's chest where maybe, for a little while, wrapped in his master's protective arms he would find a safe sleep.

____________________

The Book of Explosive Conclusions

Qui-Gon Jinn stalked the curved corridor outside the massive Senate chamber. A thousand concerns raged under the calm surface but he knew he needed to gain control. The rage of emotions from the Senate was making it difficult to focus. Worse, he sensed something was afoot but could not place it. The agitation of the Senators made everything feel tense and difficult.

The tall master suddenly stopped in the middle of the gently curving corridor. To his surprise his apprentice approached. Even if the young man was blocking their bond, he could see the relaxed nature on Anakin's face as he spoke to Jira Thelo.

The two walked through the corridor, seemingly oblivious to the unrevealed danger. Anakin gave a small laugh at something the blond haired woman said. She was dressed in a pale blue robe of her station when the Senate was convened, its ill-fitting shape hung loosely off her, dragging unprofessionally against the floor. Her platinum ringlets were gently tied back giving her a slightly more distinguished look.

Or at least a less garish appearance, Qui-Gon decided. She would not detract from the Chancellor during the announcement of the resolution.

"Of course," Jira said with a weary smile as she continued down the corridor after the apprentice had stopped.

"Padawan?" Qui-Gon asked, turning to watch Jira depart.

"I kept her too late," Anakin said softly, staring at the nearest entrance into the chamber. "I'm sure the Chancellor will be upset."

"He has too much on his mind to worry about an errant assistant," the elder Jedi said absently. "You do not–"

"Yes, Master, I do," Anakin argued. He kicked lightly at the carpet. "Padmé is addressing the Senate. Jira has to be here to assist the Chancellor and you are here. I would be alone, helping no one."

The tall master paused and studied the apprentice. There was something elusive in his bright blue eyes and he dearly wished the young man would open up to him. All he could sense was the pain. "Anakin–"

"I'm all right, Master. I need to be here." Turning, he stared helplessly at the large closed door. "How can we protect her from out here?"

"There is security stationed all about."

"I–we should be in there with her," Anakin said quickly as agitation bubbled under the surface.

"Jedi do not enter. We would lose neutrality if we stood at a politician's side."

"Even if it is only for protection?"

"Yes." Qui-Gon folded his arms into the sleeves of his cloak. "There are plenty of Jedi stationed around the chambers to act as protection. We will find the Sith."

* * * * *

Bali crouched in a small, recessed area. He struggled to keep his shields tight like his master had taught him. It would do no good to sneak away from the Temple only to get caught. He would be no help to his master.

Reaching in into the layers of his tunic, the apprentice pulled out the small PodBot. Jarring the green shape, Bali whispered, "Wake up. We are here."

A soft chirrup filled the air.

"Shh," Bali quickly shushed Warbler. The boy stretched to see around a corner. It was clear. Holding tight to the little droid, Bali crept into the corridor and then sprinted toward another safe spot. From where he sat, he could study the communications unit. The red lights indicated the system was closed to anyone outside security channels. Letting the droid go Bali watched as Warbler hovered silently.

He grabbed his comm device and checked it, but only received static. He shook it and adjusted the channel. Still nothing but static. Shaking his head in frustration. "You think anyone knows?" he whispered to the little droid.

A soft, questioning chirp as the only reply.

Bali sighed. "I can't find him without opening the training bond but then he would know I'm here. Master would very upset." Scrunching up his face again, he tried to connect to the secure channel. "We have to keep the important padawan away from Master. He wants to hurt him."

Warbler chirped.

* * * * *

"Order! Order!" Mas Amedda yelled over the din in the Senate chamber. "The Chancellor--"

The thunder of cheers, applause, boos and hisses turned into a menacing roar.

"Order!" Mas Amedda cried out.

From the Naboo delegation's pod, surrounded by other crafts filled with members of the Loyalist Committee, an elegantly dressed Senator Amidala turned to face a quiet Sirceé; silently she studied her faithful handmaiden and friend. "This is madness," the young Senator announced but went unheard over the noise. "The decision has already been made. The Senate voted, this is just the official announcement. Why fight it now?"

* * * * *

"You are late," Palpatine hissed as he adjusted his dark robes. In the background, Mas Amedda's pleas to the emotional crowd were heard. Yet, the Supreme Chancellor offered it little attention, instead a thin smile drew over his pale features.

"Forgive me," Jira said as she rushed to the elder politician's side. "I was tending to preparations."

Palpatine's dark eyes focused on the quiet woman. "I trust everything is in order?"

"Yes."

"Good." He paused to study Jira's downcast eyes and then brushed a thin finger down the side of her face. "I expect Kenobi to be dead before the day is over or no amount of synth flesh will make you pretty again, my apprentice."

"Yes, Master."

"All rise for the Supreme Chancellor Palpatine!" Mas Amedda's voice rang out through the massive chamber.

"My cue," Palpatine said softly as he stepped out of the shadows and approached the platform.

* * * * *

Obi-Wan paused, pushing back the waves of heated emotion that rolled out of the Senate chamber. It was so powerful that it threatened to overwhelm him. Pulling at the edge of his cloak, he took a deep breath, releasing his frustration and worries into the Force. Unfortunately not all of it dissipated. He still worried about leaving Bali behind.

The apprentice would learn, as he once did that it is all right to be left behind once and a while. Not all missions were for padawans.

He moved to a set of open doors, protected by two menacing Senate guards in black. The two figures paid the Jedi no attention as he stepped in, but remained within the shadows and watched the maddened Senate come to some resemblance of order.

* * * * *

Inside the massive chamber, the roar dulled to an intense hum the moment Palpatine stepped up to the podium. "Senators," he announced, drawing their attention. "This has been a highly disputed vote, but you all must see that we are left with little choice. The Republic and all it stands for is endangered–"

As the Chancellor spoke, calming the crowd, the powder blue robe of the assistant fell to the floor revealing the ink black colors of her true station, that of a Sith. The garish mass of blond curls was ripped away, revealing tightly braided dark brown hair. Fingers hovered over the last remnants of Jira Thelo, the soft smooth face. But like the rest of the guise, it must also be shed. The synth flesh peeled away revealing a physically scarred Halla Keizian.

From the shadows she stood in, her intense green gaze studied the back of the Chancellor's head. Briefly, she wondered what it would be like to remove it.

Ever so slowly, her gaze reached out into the chamber, alighting on the collection of loyalists whose pods hovered closely together. Giving a small smile, her attention fluttered up to an opening in the massive wall of pods. Even in shadow she knew he was there. Watching.

A wicked grin danced over her pale lips. It would be a spectacular show. Accepting the fate of the moment, she pulled a small device from her utility belt and activated it.

A Rodian craft hovering close to the Naboo delegation exploded in a blinding flash of fire and light.

___________________________

The Book of Facing Fears

Even before the vibrations from the explosion rattled the building. Anakin was in motion. He shoved his way through the closed doors and slammed into the rush of Senator's scrambling away from the chamber.

"Move!" He roared but the crush did not ease, threatening to shove him back into the curving corridor. Anakin drew on the Force and made a path. Senators were thrown aside easily making way for the Jedi apprentice. The young man leapt up on an empty platform and surveyed the damage even as panic was tightening its grip on him.

He would not lose another loved one. Not like this!

Across the massive room, he could see the explosion damaged pods. But his attention remained firmly affixed to burning pod that slowly sank to the bottom of the deep chamber.

*******

From the opening in the Senate chamber wall, Obi-Wan was forced to move out of the way of the maddened rush to escape. The entire chamber was a bubbling well of emotions that threatened to drown out all conscious thought. Tightening his shields against the onslaught, the Jedi master climbed up the intricate moulding that surrounded the entrance. Keen blue eyes quickly searched the scene until his gaze settled on Palpatine's craft.

Mas Amedda was rushing about, commandeering the proper protection for the Chancellor. The red guards created a wall around the politician rushing him back across the platform into the safety of the hall. In the middle of the fray, Obi-Wan watched Halla step from the shadows, unnoticed by Palpatine's security. The red glow of the Sith's lightsaber activated as she started toward the escaping Chancellor.

"No!" He called out, gaining her attention all the while racing toward the dark clad figure over the hastily abandoned pods.

Halla's calm face turned to a wicked grin as she prepared for the rushing Jedi.

* * * * *

Anakin bounded from one empty, listing senate pod to another. Every fiber of his being was focused on the slowly sinking craft of the Naboo delegation. Pulling on the Force, he guided it to aid his speed and leaping distance as he took one last bound. Air borne, the apprentice's dark tunic fluttered through the wind.

"Padmé!" he screamed, panic tearing his throat raw.

The pod shuddered with the impact of his landing. Twisting about and bringing his hand up, Anakin Force pushed the flames from the debris putting the small fire out.

Trembling hands pulled the charred form from the floor revealing Sirceé's peaceful expression. It did not take Force sensitivity to know the young woman was dead. Killed protecting the Senator. Shifting the still form to the side, the Jedi found the object of his desires. A gentle probe through the Force revealed that the rumpled form of Senator Amidala was still alive. Carefully he drew the singed figure into his arms, cradling her bruised and blooded head.

"Padmé," he whispered softly. Trembling fingers brushed over her lips. Relief was found in her warm, moist breath. "Stay with me," he whispered. "I need you."

"Anakin?"

"Shh, it wall be all right. I promise."

********

Bali withdrew a little deeper into his hiding place as the corridor suddenly became packed with escaping senators. He held tightly to the PodBot wishing it would stop. There was so much panic and fear coursing through the building he was afraid of being drowned in emotion.

Warbler pulled at the boy's tight grip. It chirped in frustration before finally breaking free and bolting into the crush of dignitaries.

"No!" Bali cried out, grasping the air but his small friend was gone. The apprentice sank a little deeper into the recessed wall.

Realizing he couldn't help his master just sitting there, Bali leapt to his feet and ran into the mass exodus. No one paid him any attention, preferring to run him into the ground than pause to go around him. The apprentice struggled not to be knocked down.

In the center of the corridor, Bali felt a sharp pain in his ankle. A very large, green alien had landed a heavy foot in the midst of the boy's. Bali yelped, pulling his smashed foot free. Limping the rest of the way, he finally made it to the other side.

Pressed tight against the wall. Bali spied the tiny green Warbler. The droid had extended its arm and was removing a small maintenance panel near the ceiling. Sliding against the wall so not to be trampled by the crowd, Bali closed in on the little droid. "What are you doing?"

Warbler chirruped, then flew into the opening. The electrician bot zipped through the narrow wall space along the mass of conduits to a shielded communications transfer box. Without hesitation, the small droid opened a panel and went to work on the ill-functioning comm system.

* * * * *

Gently, Anakin scooped Padmé off the debris-strewn floor and held her close as he quickly glanced about the empty chamber.

Almost empty.

Blue and red sabers flashed as Obi-Wan and Vengier engaged in battle.

Anakin burned bright.

________________________

The Book of Conflicting Emotions

Barely a few steps ahead of the maddened senators, Qui-Gon raced along the slowly curving corridor. His mind leapt through mental hoops. This was a different move for the Sith assassin. All of her previous attacks were up close and personal. Still, he knew without question that if she was there, the Chancellor was in danger.

Given the range of emotions emanating from his padawan, he could not tell the Naboo senator's condition. Rage bled from the young man's shielded mind. The concern mounted in the usually collected Jedi Master. Anakin! He called through their bond. Anakin!

The mass exodus was quickly clogging the halls of the Senate building. Qui-Gon knew he would never be able to make it into the chamber until everyone had left. All he could do was see to Palpatine's safety.

Fumbling as he ran, he activated his comm device but found static. Not particularly surprised by the revelation, he was shocked to see the Chancellor's private guard surrounding the politician in the middle of the hall.

"This is highly disturbing, Master Jedi," Palpatine said almost irritably. "I cannot just abandon my post like a foundering ship."

"Your security is correct," Qui-Gon said, coming to a stop before Palpatine. "We must evacuate you from the building."

"I have a resolution to declare–"

"It can wait," the graying master snapped as the dark brown of his cloak swept out, guiding the argumentative politician toward his private landing. While he admired the politician's dedication to duty, Palpatine was still a politician and not to be trusted. Again he tried to motion the obstinate man toward safety, wondering briefly why he was refusing to seek safety.

Palpatine remained steadfast. While he did not possess the Jedi's height, he more than made it up with exuded authority. "I do not believe the Republic can wait."

"Nor can it survive without its leader," Qui-Gon debated.

* * * * *

Blue flashed as Obi-Wan easily intercepted the Sith's maddened attack. He knew what it was, had fought this enemy before and felt the blind hatred flowing from the black clad figure. This Sith was no different from the one he had battled back on Naboo.

Except it had Halla's green eyes.

Darth Vengier as she was now called, viscously attacked, but her efforts were wasted as Obi-Wan deflected the deadly crimson blade. She growled, "Should have killed you when I had the chance."

Obi-Wan didn't answer. He didn't want to know what chance. Instead he blocked another wild attack, ducking under the Sith's defenses and thrusting the blue blade into the mass of darkness.

The pained cry barely sounded human as the Sith leapt back clutching her side. "I don't think it's going to be that easy."

On guard, he slowly approached the figure. "Who are you?" the Jedi demanded.

The long mass of small dark braided hair fell back over her shoulders, as Vengier let out a wicked laugh. "Come on, Obi, has it been that long?" Hissing in pain, she retreated from the Jedi. She stumbled, struggling. "You hurt me," she groaned. The silver cylinder dropped from her fingers as her hand fell to her side. Her jewel green eyes raised to her former lover. Opening her red painted lips to say something, there was a slight tremor. Her eyelids fluttered and she limply fell forward.

Instinctively, Obi-Wan reached for her. As the injured woman fell forward, the vibroshiv she kept concealed in the layers of the dark shroud tightened in her grip. Lightning quick reflexes drove the small weapon toward the Jedi.

* * * * *

Bali stared down into the hall. All that remained were a few slower species, rushing as fast as they could for escape. "Warbler!" he called up into the open panel but received no friendly beeps. Shaking his head, he knew he could not stay there. He had to find his master.

Hoping the little droid was okay; he bounded through the corridor. The apprentice did not get far before a long, thin hand grasped his arm. He cried out in surprise but quickly gained control of himself. Facing a small, frail looking Jedi, the boy struggled for calm, while silently chastising himself for not listening to the Force.

"Are you lost, Padawan?" the smooth gray and white skinned alien asked as her dark round eyes studied the surprised apprentice.

"I must go to my master," Bali said quickly.

The Jedi who seemed too small and delicate to be in the middle of this disaster tried to call up the comm channel on her hand held device. "You are too young to be running around alone."

"I must–"

"Your master's name?"

Bali's shoulders sank. "Master Kenobi." He would not let her stop him.

Static buzzed from the small communication device. "Is he helping with the evacuations?"

"I'm not sure."

The Jedi continued to struggled with the comm. "You should stay close until we find–"

"My master needs me. I must go." Without hesitation, Bali sprinted down the corridor. He reminded himself that it wasn't a lie. His master needed him, even if Obi-Wan didn't know it yet.

* * * * *

The thunder of the fleeing politicians had dissipated leaving the corridor eerily quiet save for a soft worried voice. "Don't worry. I'll find help. It will be all right."

"Anakin, please–"

"It's okay. Everything will be okay," Anakin continued to whisper. Then looked out into the empty corridor. The fearful expression was not easily calmed. "Help me!" He screamed.

"Anakin," Padmé whispered, cradled in his arms as he sought help. "Anakin."

"It will be all right," he kept promising.

She hurt inside and out. Especially the pounding of her head. All she remembered was complaining about the senate and a bright flash. Sirceé's warning her to get down.

Sirceé!

"Where is she?" Padmé asked, struggling against the strong arms that carried her.

Something shifted in Anakin's eyes. "Gone," he said after a long pause. "She's gone."

The physical pain was nothing compared to the grief that washed through her. Tears welled and traced down her roughened cheeks, stinging terribly. "No," Padmé moaned, unable to do much else. Seeking safety and comfort in the pounding heartbeat of the young man who held her.

Anakin suddenly paused. "Master says the Chancellor is holding his ship. If we hurry, I can get you to safety."

"You're not coming?" Padmé nearly cried. "No, don't leave me."

Aided the Force, the young man sprinted through the hall toward the Chancellor's private landing. "It will only be for a little while," he breathed. "Then you will be safe and they will pay for causing you harm. I promise."

* * * * *

Reacting to the Sith's devious attack, Obi-Wan shifted just enough to avoid being stabbed. Locking his arm around hers, he pinned the former Jedi apprentice. In one fluid motion, a step forward, he ripped her feet out from beneath her.

Vengier grunted as she was thrown to the ground. The fight not easily taken out of her and the vibroshiv still tight in her grip, she twisted about only to be caught in the Jedi's tight grip. "Your weakness–"

Throwing herself backward, Halla pulled the Jedi with her.

"–is believing the enemy will–"

A black boot sent the Jedi flying over her head.

"–fight fair."

Bounding to her feet, Vengier lunged at the Jedi, slamming them both into the wall of the Chancellor's platform. Obi-Wan reached, calling his weapon to him. Blue flashed searing the vibroshiv blade off.

Tossing the shiv's handle away, Vengier lashed out at the Jedi, the heel of her boot just grazing his chin. A swift hand caught her ankle and flipped the shrouded figure over. Vengier slammed into the floor but turned hard catching the Jedi by the foot and knocking him off balance. She spun, drawing her weapon across the platform, but before grasping it, Obi-Wan kicked it away.

Vengier cried out in anger. Reaching she directed a powerful Force push at the Jedi but not before he grasped her wrist. Both were sent tumbling over the edge of the platform. The synth flesh covered mechanical hand grasped a small bar beneath the platform. Obi-Wan held tight to her wrist, dangling far above the chamber floor even as the glowing blue of his lightsaber tumbled to the floor.

______________________

The Book of Maddening Situations

A few chirps as the little electrician bot spoke with freshly adjusted communications transfer box. A series of colorful lights lit up on the panel before falling into a steady pattern. Satisfied with the patch job, Warbler traced its route back along the conduit.

Popping out of the open panel in the wall, the PodBot searched the empty corridor for its boy. A few questioning chirrups sounded, but no answer was received. The little droid zipped about, chirping ever few meters as it searched the hall.

********

Qui-Gon stomped around irritably waiting for his apprentice to arrive. All about this day had disturbed him and yet the answer remained elusive. Granted there were great stress all around but a small part of him worried about Anakin.

The boy, who had always shown his emotions broadly, even when he should not, had been strangely quiet since his mother died. Shielded.

The small, high-pitched beeping of his communication device interrupted his reveries. The tall Jedi master paused his agitated stalking. "Jinn speaking."

The open channel crackled. "Need help on the transport level."

"The Chancellor's security–"

"No, no," the obstinate politician butted in pushing his way passed his guard. "Go, as soon as Senator Amidala arrives, we will depart. My security will be plenty."

"I must–"

"You must do your duty Master Jedi. We will wait only long enough for your padawan to arrive. No longer."

The tall master studied the politician. There was something

"Master Jinn," the voice crackled from the comm. "We are being overwhelmed with panicked diplomats, we need–"

"Coming," Qui-Gon said sternly holding long enough to study the politician then marched down the corridor. Behind him, he heard the Chancellor's guard move to better secure the area.

*******

Long dark braids shifted as Vengier twisted from the bar she held to. Staring down the dark shroud, her bright green eyes focused on the Jedi hanging desperately from her gloved hand. "Funny," she laughed unsettled by the situation, "you were always so willing to let go of me before."

"Halla–"

"I am Vengier!" she screamed, jerking her trapped wrist in a wild attempt to free herself.

Obi-Wan struggled but was thrown loose of the Sith. His brown cloak twisted about him as he tumbled through the air past the senatorial pods. Struggling out of his cloak, the Jedi held tight but flung the edges out snagging the material on an antenna sticking out of one of the pods.

The cloak ripped, but held allowing the Jedi's momentum to carry him around to another floating pod. He crashed into the circular craft sending it gliding back against the small platform it was stationed in front of. Bounding to his feet, Obi-Wan looked up in time to see the shrouded figure bound up onto the Chancellor's platform.

He couldn't let her get away. She, whoever she believer herself to be, could not be allowed to maintain her killing spree. Reaching over the pod wall, Obi-Wan spied his fallen lightsaber several levels below. Taking a few slow, deep breaths, he stretched his hand out. The silver cylinder trembled slightly, bouncing across the floor of the platform it laid on. The saber hilt then became airborne and flew up to the Jedi. Securing the weapon to his utility belt, Obi-Wan bounded back up the pods to the empty platform.

Breathing heavily, he glanced around, seeking the darkness, tainted with a trace of Halla Keizian's Force signature.

*******

"Master!" Anakin called out as he approached the tall Jedi. "Help."

Qui-Gon stopped at the sight of his distraught apprentice and the unconscious Senator in his arms. "Take her to the Chancellor's private landing pad." He started to walk away, but sensed Anakin's hesitation and turned. "The Chancellor will see that she is taken care of. Meet me on the transport level."

"Yes, Master," Anakin answered absently as he took off in the direction Qui-Gon had just come from. "It will be okay," he whispered to Padmé as he sprinted toward the gathering of security. "The Senator, she's injured!" he called out as several of the armed figures reached out and relieved the apprentice of Padmé.

"Thank the gods," Palpatine said with a heavily relieved sigh as he pushed close to the scene. Turning his weary gaze to the young Jedi, the Chancellor promised, "We will take care of her. It is twice I owe you. And three times if you put down those responsible for this."

"They will pay, Chancellor," Anakin replied evenly. "I will see to it."

_________________________

The Book of Perceived Danger

Halfway to the Chancellor's platform, Obi-Wan stopped. Standing in the midst of a pod, he twisted about. It would do him no good to search for the dark Force. She was too good at hiding it.

Casting out, the Jedi zeroed in on the once familiar signature of Halla Keizian. Moving to a covered pilot control panel he opened it and guided the pod across the wide expanse of the Senate chamber.

Brushing sweat dampened ginger hair from his forehead, he slowed the craft just before reaching an entrance and leapt out of it. Activating his lightsaber, he tore into the gradually curving corridor. "Not so fast."

Vengier stood frozen at the end of the Obi-Wan's lightsaber. Her bright green eyes flashed in surprise. "Seems I underestimated you," the Sith purred. Lightning reflexes sent the crimson blade in attack.

Obi-Wan blocked, defending against the maddened woman. He drove her back through the hall. There were no words to answer her. She was the enemy and he had only one responsibility. Stop her at any cost.

"You just want to get me alone," Vengier teased, backing into the Senate Chamber again. "Maybe there's a closet around here." Laughing wickedly, the Sith leapt to a nearby pod and directed it into the open center. All around her, empty Senate crafts glided out from their wall stations.

"Come and get me!" Vengier howled into the intercom.

Without questioning that she was leading him further from help and back up, the Jedi followed.

* * * * *

Chasing the gentle curve of the corridor, Anakin ran through the spiral toward his master's dominating presence. Even through the purposely-choked bond, the apprentice sensed Qui-Gon's frustration. Something about herding wild nerf in an electrical storm would be easier than dealing with panic stricken senators.

The Jedi padawan could not help a bit of laughter at his master's thoughts. The gently sloping floor did little to hinder his speed as he rushed toward the transport level.

"Come and get me!" Vengier's voice echoed out of the massive chamber in the center of the political structure.

Anakin froze.

* * * * *

Bali stopped, huffing lightly. Visually he searched the quiet section of corridor he stood in. His quickly fixed his attention on his master inside the chamber.

He was mid level and had to race along the gentle uphill to find an opening. A small part of him trembled, knowing his master would be upset for disobeying him, but Bali knew he had to be there.

Through the lightly squeezed training bond, Bali could feel Obi-Wan's tenseness and concern. There was strain and it worried Bali. The little padawan had known his master was not ready to go out on such a mission. He was not yet fully recovered from injuries suffered in previous days and yet the Council sent him.

Something caught him. It was not physical but the power of it brought the apprentice to a stand still. It was the same sensation from the Jedi Council chamber.

Hate.

Even if he had felt it happen only a few hours earlier, it could have been a lifetime ago, and he would still recognize the intensity behind it and whom it was directed toward.

All Bali knew was he had to hurry.

* * * * *

"Leave me," Padmé bellowed to the guards but when she turned, they and the Chancellor were mysteriously gone. The pain in her head was too much for her to even care why. A pale hand pressed to the bleeding gash at her hairline as she stumbled, clinging to the wall searching for Anakin.

* * * * *

Slow, deliberate footsteps brought Anakin to the nearest chamber entrance. He watched the black shrouded figure leap from one gently gliding pod to another. She, as he now could see without question, would pay for murdering his mother. That was Anakin's silent promise to the woman who had given him life. Shmi Skywalker's death would be avenged.

His attention slowly withdrew from the Sith drunk with the battle and focused on the pursuing Jedi. Obi-Wan easily leapt from pod to pod, closing in on Vengier.

The Sith was his kill! Anakin was reminded of the earlier battle and knew he could not allow Obi-Wan to finish her off. Besides, if the Jedi had stayed out of the way in the first place, the Sith beast would be dead and his mother still alive.

Drawing the Force close like a cloak, the young man reached out.

* * * * *

Obi-Wan paused to get a bearing on his surroundings. Vengier continued her assent as pods created a makeshift staircase to the top of the domed ceiling. Disguised in the sea of gray was a maintenance access panel that Vengier seemed to be targeting.

Not willing to let her escape, the Jedi leapt up the next pod and bounded to another. Just as he landed, the pod suddenly jerked sending the Jedi tumbling several meters before barely catching the edge of another pod.

* * * * *

"No!" Bali screamed racing toward the distracted older apprentice. Leaping into the air, the smaller boy tackled Anakin about mid chest and they both slammed into the ground. Bali was tossed free and rolled to his feet. Reaching out with the Force, he slammed an emergency button on a security box.

Sirens blared throughout the Senate building and protective doors slid closed sealing the Senate chamber off from the rest of the building. An unused security measure against internal attack, the heavy doors locked into place.

Anakin responded and tried to deactivate the security feature but Bali was just half a step ahead. The violet of his lightsaber flashed and he sliced into the wall just below the panel.

Sparks flew in a blinding flash and filled the section of corridor with the stench of fried wiring and gray plumes of smoke.

* * * * *

Qui-Gon twisted sensing it a moment before the sirens sounded. A surge of rage rippled through his training bond with Anakin before crashing closed.

Anakin!

Pushing through the mass of flesh, Qui-Gon fought to free himself of the crush of senator's trying to force themselves into escape ships.

Anakin, no!

* * * * *

Bali shook the disabled lightsaber. He still was not adept at using it and had allowed it be hit with the power surge when he cut the line to the security panel.

"That was a very silly thing to do," Anakin said evenly as he rose to his feet, a dark gaze never left the brown haired boy still on the floor.

"I'm protecting my Master," Bali said defensively as he too crawled to his feet.

"By trapping him with the Sith?"

"By keeping you away."

_________________

The Book of the Abandoned

"Ani?" Padmé half sobbed as she stumbled through the long curving corridor. "Where are you, Ani?" Her legs wobbled unevenly and she slid to the floor. "I need you."

* * * * *

"Tenacious to the last," Vengier hissed as she struggled to keep ahead of the Jedi. "You are not even going to speak to me? We used to talk all the time in the mediation garden." Guiding a pod close to the ceiling, she reached out and Force shoved the panel out of the way.

"Vengier!" Obi-Wan called out.

The Sith paused, her bright green eyes focusing on her pursuer. Those pale blue eyes told her it never mattered what face she wore, there was no place for here in his life, not as long as his first love was the Jedi Order. It had been hard to accept her master's decree that the Jedi must die.

Now, she possessed no reservations.

"You feel betrayed," Vengier hissed even as she moved closer to the opening.

"I feel nothing for you." The Jedi bounded up to the edge of the pod the Sith was trying to escape.

His words made her stop and face him again. "Jedi do not lie."

Obi-Wan held his saber defensively between them. "Am I?"

"No, I suppose you are not." She feinted an attack and when the Jedi moved to defend, Vengier leapt up through the open panel and vanished into the shadows above.

* * * * *

Anakin! Qui-Gon roared through the training bond but knew he wasn't getting through. Anakin!

Pushing through the last of the crowd, he broke into the open corridor. As the Jedi master sprinted toward his apprentice's bright Force signature he kept calling to the young man but the bond was gone. At first, he didn't want to admit it, but as each moment passed he grew more certain of its severance.

* * * * *

Bali retreated a step.

"You've caused a lot of trouble," Anakin said slowly. "The Council will kick you out of the Order."

A worried expression studied the other. "Master won't let them."

Anakin laughed weakly approaching the little padawan. "My mother is dead," he said plainly.

"Never knew mine," Bali replied. Fear danced in the bright green depths of his eyes. Even in this moment of terror, the small padawan's thoughts leapt back to recent conversations with his master. "I hope I have brothers and sisters so my parents won't be lonely."

"I was an only child."

The wall stopped Bali's retreat. The important padawan looked so tall and the younger apprentice had to strain his neck to meet the intense gaze. "I know my parents sacrificed a lot to give me to the Jedi. All I want to do is make them proud. Make their sacrifice worth something."

Anakin stopped.

"I am Jedi," Bali said proudly small hands wringing together nervously.

Uncertainty shifted in Anakin's bright blue gaze. Pain echoed in his voice, "So what? That makes you special?"

"Yes, of course he is," a gravelly voice entered the conversation.

Anakin spun activating his saber only to face the black clad form of Sidious. "You!" he cried out furiously.

Sidious seemed to glide across through the hall to the two padawans. "Oh, no, I did not murder your mommy," the dark lord mocked. "That was my apprentice. The one Master Kenobi is battling as we speak." Pale fingers waved at the sealed door as he turned shrouded eyes to Anakin. "Of course you know that."

Anakin straightened.

"Ah, young Skywalker, I can feel the hate rolling off of you, your desire for revenge."

"You don't know anything!" Anakin barked.

Bali silently crept away from the Sith. He had already faced this one and did not want to do it again.

Sidious laughed. "I know you better than your master does. I know you severed the training bond."

A sharp inhale was Anakin's only reply.

Wicked, evil laughter filled the corridor as he settled his gaze on the small escaping padawan. "You wanted to see the little one hurt. Make Kenobi suffer like you do."

Bali's terror filled eyes widened as he froze against the wall.

"Oh, don't be afraid, I won't let him harm you," Sidious said before turning his taunts back to Anakin. "He should be more worried about that meddling senator of his."

* * * * *

Obi-Wan paused before following Vengier into the false dome. For a moment, so brief, he thought he sensed Bali nearby. Quickly banishing the thought, knowing the boy was safe at the Temple, the Jedi pulled himself up into the darkness.

* * * * *

"Padmé," Anakin exhaled. He moved so quickly that the little padawan behind him did not have a chance. He slammed into the boy and knocked Bali to the floor in his hasty retreat.

He had not even felt her pain until the moment the Sith mentioned her. It came rushing at him; all the hurt and fear slammed into the Jedi.

Desperation allowed him to nearly fly over the marble floor in his rush to get to his heart's desire. Panic made the young man reach out on the Force searching for the warmth of Padmé. He never slowed once he found her. The Force enhanced his speed.

"Padmé!" He cried out at the sight of the beautiful, but bloodied woman on the floor.

"Ani?" she groaned reaching for him.

"You were supposed to leave on the Chancellor's ship. Get your injuries treated."

"Had to find you," she whispered as she wrapped her arms around his neck. "I was afraid for you."

______________________________

The Book of Running Out of Time

"Still chasing me after all of these years!" Vengier hissed. Turning, she sprinted along a narrow series of catwalks that crisscrossed the dimly lit space above the senatorial chamber. Her speed caused the metal to quiver and rattle violently.

Obi-Wan bolted over the twisting mass, quickly closing in on the Sith. Vengier had other plans; she spun igniting her lightsaber. The crimson blade flashed through the darkness slicing through the catwalk's supports just as she leaped to a short ladder hanging from the ceiling.

Metal screamed and buckled, nearly taking the Jedi with it. Using the Force, Obi-Wan leapt from the collapsing walkway and caught another more stable section. He turned on the Sith just in time to be blinded by the bright Coruscant sun. Vengier had shoved a small door in the ceiling open exposing the dimly lit area to a wash of golden light.

Running the length of the walkway, Obi-Wan bounded through the air, snagging the ladder. The rough crosspieces dug into his hands as he pulled himself up several steps until he managed a foothold.

The sun was so bright, nearly blinding the Jedi. From the top of the Senate Building he could see all of Coruscant's political structures. If he strained, in the rich blue distance, he could almost make out the center spire of the Jedi Temple.

Or maybe he was imagining being so close to home.

Turning into the cool wind, Obi-Wan sought out the escaping Sith. Running along maintenance paths, he quickly caught up to her. "Stop!"

Vengier twisted, her weapon arm extended holding the silver cylinder at ready. "Or what? You going to stop me?"

For every step the Jedi took forward, Vengier retreated. A deliciously wicked smile danced over her red painted lips.

He slashed through the air, relieving Vengier of part of her shroud. The pieces of black material fluttered through the air, the wind carrying them over the edge into the city below. "How could you betray everything you had been taught?" he demanded.

"Who betrayed what?" The Sith asked, pulling the black cloak off, sending the shroud tumbling across the roof. "The Order betrayed me when they took away my child."

"I researched the mission report, you were injured on a mission," Obi-Wan said coolly.

"Injured because they sent me on that mission!" Vengier screamed.

"You followed your master on that mission. It was your choice. You were injured doing your duty. No one but those that attacked you are to blame," the Jedi said evenly.

Vengier's dark braids twisting against her black tunic when she shook her head defiantly. "All lies. You're just as responsible."

"You don't believe that, Halla."

"I am Vengier!" She screamed, rushing the Jedi.

* * * * *

Bali remained frozen on the floor where he had landed. His breathing was quick and shallow as he searched the corridor for his lightsaber that he had dropped.

"Such a brave little boy," Sidious taunted drawing close to the apprentice.

The hanging black hood masked the Sith's face, but Bali imagined a vile, wicked creature under the material and was thankful for the mask. "Stay back," he warned as he crawled backward over the marble floor. Spying his lightsaber, the boy reached out for it. The silver cylinder bounded across the floor before leaping to the boy's hand. Flipping over, he got to his feet bringing his weapon forward, yet the damaged lightsaber did not ignite.

Terror filled the glassy green depths as Bali's gaze fell to the broken weapon. He quickly retreated another step, struggling to activate the violet blade.

Nothing happened.

Panic raced through the small, dark haired padawan. Opening the training bond, Bali reached for his master, desperately needing help.

"Oh, no, I can't have you doing that," Sidious hissed, pulling on the Force he strangled the bond between the boy and his master. "Wouldn't want to disturb your master, now would we?"

"Stay back," Bali warned shaking the saber hilt at the Sith master.

Sidious laughed. "Come, little one, you are going to share Master Spex's secrets with me."

* * * * *

Anakin!

Still no answer and the graying Jedi master was quickly resigning himself to the fact there would never be one. Yet he could not stop. His padawan was doing something foolish and dangerous. Anakin was opening himself for temptation from the dark side.

Anakin!

If his thoughts had been more focused, the aging Jedi master would have noticed the ache in his joints and muscles. He would have noticed how easily he became short of breath. If he could only slow down he would have noticed how his age had crept up on it.

He was too old to start over with a new padawan. Too old to make things right.

Too old and too set in his ways to see the way things were turning. Too blind to see problems but he couldn't stop running. Time was running out. He had felt the momentary flare of darkness before it was suddenly and mercilessly closed to him.

Heavy boots thundered against the floor. He had to run faster.

He couldn't be too late.

* * * * *

Warbler chirped as it picked up speed through the gently curving corridor. Weaving about, the tiny PodBot continued its search for the missing boy.

"Don't be afraid, little one, the pain will not last long."

A wild series of beeps ripped through the droid at the sight of its boy struggling to free himself of the black cloaked figure.

"Let go!" Bali cried out, trying to pull loose from the pale but powerful grip around his arm.

Warbler extended the small repair arm activating the soldering tip. The green droid zipped forward, jabbing at the Sith lord. All the while it beeped and whistled wildly as it zoomed in for another attack.

Sidious turned, a pale hand reached from the safety of the billowing black sleeves and blue lightning arced from his fingertips. Warbler let out a pained cry just before the charred green body dropped to the floor with a clang.

_______________________

The Book of the Brave

"No!" Bali cried out at the sight of the destroyed PodBot smoldering on the floor. "No," he sobbed wishing only to run to the broken droid and take care of it.

Thin but strong fingers tightened around the boy's throat. Bali struggled, gasping for air. Defenseless against the blue arcs of lightning that leapt from Sidious' fingers directly into the tender flesh of his neck the young padawan screamed in pain.

The dark lord laughed.

After only a few powerful jolts, Bali sank to his knees. Thick tears streamed down his cheeks as he whimpered in pain. "No," he cried out softly. In the deep shadows of the Sith's hood, Bali could see the lightning reflected in cruel eyes. More jolts shook the boy, but it wasn't what scared him the most. Darkness, thick and suffocating pressed against his shields. Every time he tried to struggle to get free more Sith lightning rippled through him. The apprentice tried to tighten his shields but the waves of pain from another electrifying attack rendered him nearly senseless.

"No," he mumbled unable to do any more as the Sith invaded his shields. It tore into his mind searching, shifting about. Terror filled pale green eyes sought the features of his attacker but the shadows protected the Sith's identity. Purple clung to his lips as they trembled.

He didn't want to give away Master Spex's secrets.

But you will.

Bali shrieked at the inky voice that echoed in his mind. He screamed as more jolts leapt from the Sith's hands to the side of his face.

Tell me and the pain will go away.

After a few more moments of suffering Bali gave in to the Sith's demands and suddenly opened his shields. He threw every word, every whisper the dying Tomenaar had spoken at the Sith.

Sidious violently ripped free of the boy causing Bali to fall to the floor with a dull thud.

"No!" Sidious roared. "I won't allow it!"

Too hurt and too weak to escape, Bali managed to pushed himself into a sitting position. A trembling hand roughly wiped the tears away. He would not run. No crying. Memory of the vid of Ben'al Houk's death came to him. Fuzzy memories focused on the serene, accepting expression of the Sith killer of long ago as he prepared to die.

The padawan knew his master would do the same.

He would be brave too.

Finding control, Sidious turned on the calmly waiting boy. "Spex was a fool imparting his tale's to a child."

Bali slowly closed his eyes as the Sith raised his hand. Maybe he wasn't as brave as he wished.

"Shall we share this with your master?" Arcs of blue danced from Sidious' fingertips. Wicked laughter pealed from the Sith lord as he let loose stream after stream of Force lightning. "Die, little padawan. Die!"

* * * * *

Vengier raced across the sloping dome occasionally pausing to strike out at the pursuing Jedi. At the narrow lip just before the edge, she wildly attacked, nearly sending Obi-Wan over the edge. The Jedi countered, forcing Vengier into a quick retreat.

The Sith's footfalls landed dangerously close to the gently curving rim. Obi-Wan did not back down, one powerful strike after another made it difficult for Vengier to keep her balance. Yet the Jedi never relented.

"You think by killing me, you rid yourself of your ghosts?" Vengier demanded trying to gain the upper hand.

"I am only killing a Sith," Obi-Wan replied coolly.

Angered by the response, she spat, "So determined." Then the Sith laughed even as she was nearly pushed over the edge by the attack. Raising her weapon, she deactivated the crimson blade.

Obi-Wan froze, not knowing how to respond to the Sith's strange action. Vengier stretched her weapon bearing hand out over the edge. A calm smile crossed her red lips as she released the weapon. Silently the saber fell tumbled straight down the side of the Senate Building.

Slowly the Jedi brought his saber up defensively. She would not play him again.

"Never imagined it would be so easy to lead you away." She smiled. You can't run fast enough."

"What?" Split seconds more and the answer was provided as the training bond exploded with his apprentice's pain. "Bali–"

The distraction was all she needed. Vengier lunged forward sending both she and the Jedi over the ledge.

Thoughts in such a tailspin that Obi-Wan almost could not react. Falling nearly a dozen stories before he managed to call to the Force for help, he managed to grasp a viewing deck rail. The black clad figure fell passed but managed to clasp tight to the Jedi's ankle. The suddenly added weight wrenched the Obi-Wan's hold free.

Addled with the terrified rush of pain through the training bond, he was barely coherent enough to grab the grappling line from his utility belt. Launching the hooked end, it tangled around a small protrusion on the viewing deck.

The line instantly pulled taut nearly jerking Obi-Wan loose. The Jedi, with the Sith still holding firmly to his ankle swung through the air. Vengier was intent on taking him with her and struggled wildly to shake him loose.

The line was slicing into his hands as he twisted, glancing down the side of the building until he found another viewing deck a dozen stories below. Pushing back his padawan's terror, he focused the Force on the line and moved to make it swing a little. Just a little more, a little further.

Coming, Padawan.

With sufficient momentum, the Jedi released the line and tumbled toward the deck below. He slammed into the rail. Pain laced through his chest but was mildly satisfied in that his feet were firmly against the deck floor.

The falling Vengier grasped the Jedi's tunic and nearly pulled him over the edge but her grip wasn't enough and she slipped. Instinctively Obi-Wan reached for her, grasping the gloved hand only briefly before it slipped through his fingers.

"Halla!"

Within an instant the Sith was nothing more than a shrinking black mass as she fell.

___________________

The Book of Dying

In the end, Vengier was correct Obi-Wan would not get there in time. The weary Jedi sprinted through the very quiet building not slowing for anything. Nothing mattered at that moment except for getting to Bali.

The life or death of Vengier meant little to him. Others would have to deal with it. Bali was his only concern. The apprentice's pain filled cries that had torn through the training bond had been heartbreaking enough, but the sudden silence had nearly stopped the master's heart.

The gently curving corridor allowed him to see the scene long before he reached it. His heart lurched at the sight of Qui-Gon Jinn kneeling silently next to his large, rumpled cloak on the tile floor. The graying Jedi glanced up, the bit of surprise in deep blue eyes turned to a deep sadness. Upon closer approach, the rumpled dark brown cloak revealed a small figure wrapped in the warm folds. The boy's peaceful features reminded the Jedi of the first night in the new apartment with the eight-year-old padawan. The boy had looked so small and fragile twisted in his covers. In five years, nothing had changed.

Grief rippled through the Force reflecting the young master's pain as he slowed. The last few steps seemed terribly difficult and the Jedi collapsed at the boy's side. "No."

Qui-Gon silently studied his former apprentice, then slowly reached out placing a large comforting hand to Obi-Wan's shoulder. "I have called for help," he said softly, then quietly retreated leaving the younger master alone with the boy, knowing those brief moments were all they had left.

Trembling fingers pressed to the boy's cool forehead. "Padawan," Obi-Wan whispered. Sensing the fragile life force, he gently pulled the thirteen-year-old into his arms. Bali's head rested against his master's chest as the Jedi held onto the fading spirit. "Don't go," Obi-Wan whispered pressing a cheek to the smashed brown spikes. "Don't."

Green eyes fluttered open briefly. They were dull and unfocused. Bali gave a relieved smile. "Master," he breathed. The boy's fading light flared briefly, sharing the joy of his master's presence.

"Shh," Obi-Wan replied sending Bali strength through their fading bond. "Save your strength. Help is coming." He struggled against the terror that was building in him. Uncontrollably the Jedi rocked the small form. "Don't go," he begged as tears welled in his eyes. "I can'tno."

"Master," Bali repeated as if trying to draw strength from the word. "I was brave," his voice trailed off.

"Always, Padawan."

"Saved you." There was a long paused before Bali's dull gaze sought his master again. "Kept him away. Hurt. Wanted to hurt–"

"Hush," Obi-Wan whispered. "Save your strength. You are going to be all right."

"I was brave," the dying boy mumbled. "Like you. A Jedi."

"Yes. You are a Jedi." Obi-Wan wanted to squeeze the singed, wounded child, holding desperately to the bit of life that remained but the spirit was quickly slipping away and the bond was growing thin. "No, no you have to stay. Hang on. Don't go," Obi-Wan wept. "Don't. I need you."

"Was I good a padawan?"

"You are the best and you will be a great Jedi knight."

Bali gave a little smile and his eyes slowly slid closed.

"No," came a more determined voice. "No. I should have been here. Not for my mistake. I shouldn't have left you alone." The panic eased itself from Obi-Wan's voice as he gently brushed his fingers through the boy's flattened spikes. "No." Reaching into the fading bond he grasped the warmth of the boy's spirit.

I won't let you go.

Obi-Wan had done this before and it had nearly killed him. The sacrifice was worth it. No matter what had happened afterward, he would have done it again. There was no question that he had to do this now. Bali needed him. After all, he had sworn to protect and train the little padawan to knighthood, he would not fail in that. Obi-Wan had meant what he said; Bali would be a great Jedi knight. "It's going to be all right," he promised.

Clinging to the warm spirit Obi-Wan retreated mentally a step and allowed a meditative calm flow through him. Bali was so terribly injured he would need all of his focus to heal the boy just enough to survive.

Bali's soft exhale the only sound in the hall.

Closing his eyes, but keeping the mental picture of the padawan close, Obi-Wan opened himself to the Force. Horror ripped through the Jedi at Force examination of the lightning induced wounds. His own experience had been traumatic enough but it was nothing compared to damage caused to the young padawan. Channeling the power, he guided its healing touch to the padawan's injured body. The constant, unimpeded flow of the Force burned through the Jedi. It took all of his concentration to keep the flow contained and directed toward his padawan. It was the same act used in healing smaller, less serious injuries where amount of Force flow needed was thin but powerful. But to heal the injuries of his padawan's lightning ravaged body it took more. Much more. Obi-Wan had tapped into the primordial source of the ancient power and turned himself into a living conduit.

One that was not designed to handle such a Force surge.

A small breath and the thunder of a weak heartbeat was all Obi-Wan heard as the padawan's spirit brightened. The Force's light burned through Obi-Wan like a torch setting every cell on fire but he would maintain the flow until the boy was strong enough to survive with treatment. Just a little longer and Bali would be fine. The bright shining spirit of his padawan was his beacon, it was even more blinding that the Force. As long as he held onto it everything would be fine.

Obi-Wan grunted fighting to remain focused as his nerves exploded into electric pain. Through his padawan he relived the boy's final moments attacked by the Sith master. So transfixed with the image he did not noticed the edges of his mind begin to blur.

Voices all around called out to him. Hands tugging at him. More voices. Panicked voices. Bali was being pulled from his arms. The warm little spirit crying out.

He felt nothing.

Nothing at all.

_______________________

Holonet Broadcasting Company

"the death toll has risen to at least a dozen dead including Senator Amidala's private guard. Still no word on Chancellor Palpatine's missing assistant. The would be assassin was believed to be killed by the quick action of the Jedi.

"In a related story, hostilities against the Jedi are on the rise near the front lines in the war with the League of Secessionists.

"In a statement following the attack on the Senate building, Senator Erigar of the Caris Regime pointed out that the resolution had to pass. The Galactic Senate would fail in its duties to protect the Republic if they allowed such a terroristic attack to frighten them into submission."

_________________

The Book of Purification

The air of the funerary chamber crackled as bright orange and yellow flames leapt wildly into the air casting dancing shadows against the curved walls. The golden light showered the two silent witnesses as the fire quickly consumed the yarel branches spread across the bier Shmi Skywalker was laid upon.

Anakin's tears reflected the horror before him but he remained stoic watching the fires greedily consume his mother's body.

A still bruised Padmé stared up at the nearly catatonic young man. She wrapped herself gently around his arm, pulling close. Human contact, support was all she could offer him.

After a time, when the body had been reduced to ashes and the flame little more than a warm glow Anakin pulled his eyes from the sight to stare down at the young Senator. Padmé gave him a warm, loving smile. He returned it, wrapping his arm around her shoulders and drawing her close.

The words were soft, as if she were afraid of creating sacrilege. "Are you going to be all right?"

"I think so." Anakin's gaze returned to the fire. The embers glowed in his bright blue eyes. "We both lost someone in this ordeal, Sirceé, my mother, but you and I survived."

"Yes." She tried to search his eyes, but the distant gaze gave her precious little to evaluate.

"I was so afraid I had lost you too," Anakin said finally. "I never want to have to feel like that again."

Padmé fingered the edge of his dark brown tunic. "What are you saying?" she asked uncertainly even if deep down she knew the unspoken question.

Anakin studied the warm glow that danced over her features. "Marry me."

"They won't let you," she whispered.

"Then I will leave the Order."

"What about your hopes of becoming a Jedi?"

"Jedi serve the Republic. I can still serve even if I am not one. I will be your protection."

"I've already lost one body guard," she said softly. "I can't lose you."

"You won't," Anakin breathed as he leaned forward and kissed the beautiful Senator.

__________________

The Book of Being Alone

Qui-Gon had faced the Council's inquisition on the events of the siege of the Senate building. He was forced to explain his apprentice's absence in the chamber. Few things in his long life had been so difficult to admit but the master had spoken plainly about the death of his bond with the young man. He had asked that he and Anakin take extended leave of the Temple to heal and refocus on Anakin's training. Reluctantly the Council had allowed it. Demanding regular reports on his progress. He knew they had been worried. He had only spoken to his padawan once after the action in the Senate. The boy was tending to the injured Naboo Senator but promised he would return to the Temple shortly.

A deep sigh from the very depths of his being broke free of the gray Jedi master. The Council made him explain Anakin's need to ignore orders and fly off to the aid of one specific Senator numerous times. How little had he known, while he spoke Anakin had silently left the Temple for the last time.

It had been so difficult for the elder master to tell the Council how he had felt the flare of pure hatred from his padawan directed at a child. How the bond had been ruthlessly murdered moments before. Yet, Anakin had not harmed the small apprentice. At least not directly causing pain, but through abandonment. His pride swore that Anakin was not to blame for such an act, even if his heart told him otherwise. He had left a thirteen-year-old to face the enemy alone.

A message on the comm was waiting for Qui-Gon upon his returned to the quarters he shared with the dusty youth from Tatooine.

An apology for leaving. A gracious thank you for freeing him and giving him a new live but Anakin said he felt his true place was to protect Padmé. She now held a place closer to his heart than the Jedi Order. The messaged ended with the familiar good-bye the boy had often offered his master, yet somehow the words seemed hollow, distant.

This was merely a setback, the older Jedi had decided. He had always believed the Force introduced them for a reason. The boy was the chosen one and he would bring balance to the Force.

It was only a short time later, when the weary Jedi made his way to his private room. He paused in the little corridor between his and Anakin's rooms. A frightening sense of déjà vu washed over him.

Anakin's sparse belongings were gone. The little models that once sat on his desk and the few mementos of the past were missing. The bedroll was absent leaving an empty sleep couch save one item. In the center of the bed lay Anakin's lightsaber.

A Jedi abandoning their lightsaber was sign of resignation from the Order. It was always known but rarely acted upon. With that, Anakin had completely severed his connection to the Order.

The weight of a long life brought the Jedi master to his knees. Trembling fingers gripped the silver cylinder as he started to sob. The emptiness in his mind where a training bond had existed for so long was overbearing. Suddenly feeling too old to take on another padawan and too old to be of any use anymore.

Twisting the abandoned saber hilt, the aging Jedi Master wept, not knowing how to face the next day alone.

___________________________

Holonet Broadcasting Company

"civil war has broken out.

"In other news, Senator Amidala of Naboo has officially announced her marriage to Anakin Skywalker, a former Jedi and best remembered as the Hero of Naboo nearly ten years ago during the Trade Federation's blockade of the tiny planet. Supreme Chancellor Palpatine officiated the private ceremony."

______________________

The Book of Not Being Alone

A freshly cleaned and polished PodBot traveled through the corridor of the healing center. Salmon colored hands held the small, dinged body. The black and gold antenna flopped lifelessly over Bant's fingers as she turned the little inactive droid about. "Why am I not surprised you are in no better shape?" Silver eyes studied the limp antenna and a new, large dent on the droid's underbelly. Receiving no answer, she sighed and entered a private healing room.

Bant's gaze immediately settled on the medical sleep couch. The sight inspired a small smile.

Curled up under the covers, in the calm of sleep, lay a small padawan. At the edge of the bed, the healer stopped and pulled a medical data pad from the tray over the sleep couch. Flipping through a few screens and adding a notation of her own, she slowly sank to the chair that had become a permanent fixture next to Bali's bed. Seeking the small hand that peeked out from beneath the warm covers, she shoved the green Warbler into Bali's grip.

"I suppose this is a waste of my breath because you're not going to hear a word I say," she paused to eye the unconscious boy. "Keeper Vu'et did his best to patch the little beast up. He said its internal systems were melted." She flicked the droid's one gold antenna. "Lucky for Warbler, its an electrician bot. Its little brain has extra shielding against electrical surges. Vu'et said it was acting weird, but that could be normal Warbler. Just in case, don't activate it until you leave here."

Suddenly becoming quiet, the healer carefully looked over the boy's medical charts again. Thank the Force everything appeared fine. All his vitals continued to strengthen with each passing day. Through the Force, she could sense Bali pulling toward consciousness. Resting a healing hand against the boy's shoulder, she whispered, "Take your time, okay? Don't rush. Give yourself a chance to heal."

The healer knew, no matter how long she lived, the sight of singed, severely injured padawan had been heart wrenching. Yet, it was nothing compared to the barely conscious weeping pleas for his master.

At first, she feared more than his body was damaged but mind healers, to the best of their knowledge believed there was no physical damage but they wouldn't know for sure until he regained consciousness. The healer in her and her faith in the Force reassured her the boy would be fine.

Of course, she would just have to be patient, something she knew the Council was also having trouble with. They couldn't wait to get their hooks into him to see what he could tell them about his suspected Sith attacker.

Suspected because no one knew.

Silently she swore as long as she could use her medical override to protect him from the inquisition, she would.

Out of the corner of one silvery eye, she caught a glimpse of a little steady red light glowing under a bedside table. An irritated breath escaped the Mon Cal as she slipped out of the chair to her knees and strained to reach the object that had her attention. Holding her prize in her open palm, Bant studied the vitals sensor wristband. It appeared to be working but the clasp was shattered. Stuffing the band into her smock's left pocket, she pulled a brand new band out of her right one.

"The healer padawans on rotation must have grown tired of running in here every time the sensor logs report you've died. Next time I come in here, you will probably be sprawled out on the floor dead for an hour before anyone notices." She waited; hoping for a gruff growl but even that was denied her. "Oh, just you be stubborn."

Fighting the frustration that so easily welled up in her, the healer leapt to her feet, replaced Bali's charts and stomped across the small room to the abnormally large window on the opposite wall. Never for a moment did she take her gaze from the cloaked Jedi who quietly watched the distant traffic lines. Well, at least she imagined he was watching something instead of staring aimlessly out.

"Don't ignore me, Obi," she warned softly noting the weariness that colored her friend's aura. She held up the new vitals reader. "Please stop taking these off. We need this to make sure you are doing all right." Without waiting for an answer, she reached across the Jedi's folded arms and clasped a buried wrist. Pulling back the heavy, billowing cloak and the creamy outer tunic sleeve made from a material that was usually reserved for trips to such inhospitable climates as Hoth she revealed a tremor affected hand. Mercilessly she snapped the monitor band around the Jedi's wrist. A series of small lights lit up as they gathered vital information on Obi-Wan's well being.

The Jedi just stared dully at his wrist that Bant still held.

Adjusting the sleeve again to cover the mildly trembling hand Bant said sternly, "This is not resting." Tugging on the Jedi's wrist, she tried to lead him to a chair. "You must sit down."

Obi-Wan remained steadfast to his place by the window.

"You were injured too, remember? If you don't sit down I'm going to sedate you so you can get some rest and heal." When that did not inspire the Jedi, she added, "You want to be there when Bali wakes up?"

Pale blue flashed. Obi-Wan searched Bant's serious features. "Awake?"

Warm salmon colored fingers brushed against the heavy cloak. "He's working on it and I know Bali will want to see his master first thing. You can't do that if your swimming in a drug induced sleep."

Obi-Wan did not respond, just stared beyond the healer's shoulder at the sleeping boy.

The Jedi's empty eyes bothered Bant. She could never quite explain it, but the hollow gaze was so different from the usually keen if not cold stare. It was as if there was something missing, but she could not bring herself to look further. A part of her did not want to know.

Memory leapt back to the bright sunshine that day on the emergency landing platform. The wait for the ambulance to arrive had been excruciating. She had been so angry with Dirad for putting her on the team to treat Bali and not Obi-Wan. Now she was grateful. Knowing what Obi-Wan had sacrificed to save his padawan made Bali's survival all the more important. She had been so focused on stabilizing the boy and getting him into care that she never realized how much trouble her friend was in. It was only for a brief moment when she turned to see the Master Healer and his team struggling with Obi-Wan did it strike her just what was sacrificed.

It took three days before Obi-Wan was stabilized, three days after that the severely weakened Jedi woke to everyone's surprise. They had not been able to keep him from the boy's side since.

Oblivious to the healer, Obi-Wan slowly shuffled across the small room's tiled floor to the boy's bed. He nearly collapsed into the chair from exhaustion.

Helplessness surged through the healer as she pulled a blanket from a nearby shelf and carried it to the Jedi. Caring hands gently wrapped the warm material around his broad shoulders. Moving around to face her friend, salmon fingers tipped up the ginger bearded chin. In the coarse healing center light, she thought she saw strands of silver mixed in his whiskers. Maybe it was her imagination, most likely not.

"Look at me," she demanded patiently waiting until the pale blue gaze rose to her. "He's going to wake up when he is ready. But it won't be for a few more hours or a day at least. He knows you care. Trust me. Bali knows. He also would not want you sitting here when he knows you need rest too."

The Jedi reached out and found the small hand wrapped around the dormant Warbler. The fingers traveled on and lightly massaged the boy's brow before brushing back the slightly outgrown brown spikes. Taken by the healing caused chill, Obi-Wan tugged at his cloak and blanket.

Bant frowned and straightened, folding her arms across her chest, she huffed irritably, "I suppose I should take your stubbornness as a good sign, huh?" Her thoughts returned to the deep sadness embedded in her friend's pale blue eyes. In the weeks since the Jedi had regained consciousness, he had spoke barely a dozen words, most of the time it was padawan and Bal. She had come to depend on his eyes to tell her what was going on. The unfamiliar dullness left her to worry that the emptiness had not stopped with his eyes.

A trembling hand reached up and tugged at the cloak and blanket again. "Cold." The mumbled word was slow and slurred having lost the elegance of the inner rim accent.

"I don't know there is a lot we can do for that," Bant said softly. Kneeing before her friend, the healer carefully adjusted the blanket to better protect Obi-Wan from the phantom coldness that had plagued him for so long. And now had become a burden she did not know if he could handle. "Maybe if you would lie down and take a nap–"

"No," Obi-Wan slurred adamantly even as his weariness showed in heavy eyelids. "Staywakes upstay." Frustration danced across his weary face and tears welled in his eyes. "Balinot alone." One trembling hand tightened into a fist as the other wrapped around the Bali's wrist. He struggled against the crippling injury he had willingly accepted in trade for the boy's life. "Notalone."

-fin-