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"Much anger in him. Like his father...." ~Yoda
***
Moments earlier, Obi-Wan Kenobi had been in a resources room getting confirmation on an outgoing transport. Now he was all but trapped in a narrow foyer behind a group of curious tourists. Patiently and politely he waited and listened as a tour guide began carefully reciting her memorized speech.
"Aremont's Jedi Cathedral is the last of its kind. The first cornerstone was laid over a hundred years ago. It was originally built and used by the Jedi as a place for spiritual retreats. Jedi Masters from all over the galaxy would come to the cathedral by Ergo's scenic wooded lake to meditate and connect to the living and unifying Force.
"As decades passed, fewer and fewer Jedi came to Aremont to train. The area had lost a lot of its aesthetic appeal and was no longer isolated due to urban development to the south. Over time, parts of the cathedral fell into a state of disrepair.
"Ten years ago, Aremont's capital city, Ergo, declared the old cathedral a historical landmark. Shortly afterwards, the cathedral was purchased from the city and salvaged by Ergo's Historical Preservation Society, who opened its doors to the public and turned it into the popular tourists' attraction it is today," the tour guide concluded. "Now, if you'll all follow me, we'll continue on to the south spire." She turned and led her group to a new part of the cathedral.
Obi-Wan and his padawan, Anakin Skywalker, had listened to that same speech numerous times while residing at the cathedral for the duration of their assignment on Aremont. Obi-Wan sighed a little impatiently as the tour group shuffled slowly down the hall.
Standing directly in front of Obi-Wan was an attractive woman with black-colored skin and large, painted dark gray eyes. She couldn't have been much over twenty-five, but she was well-dressed and her long blue-black hair was painstakingly styled with jeweled beads. Young, but definitely one of Ergo's more prominent and affluent citizens, the Jedi thought. The woman turned suddenly as if sensing his scrutiny, saw him, and smiled warmly.
"A real Jedi!" she exclaimed, delighted.
Other tourists suddenly focused their attention on the Jedi, but the tour guide sternly urged them on. Obi-Wan flattened himself against the wall and tried to appear as inconspicuous as possible. He risked instant celebrity status every time he ventured down to the main floor during business hours.
"Oh, forgive me. I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable," the woman quickly apologized. "It's just that I can't believe my good fortune. Wait until I tell my brother. He'll be so jealous! We've never had the opportunity to meet a Jedi Knight face to face before. My brother used to study Jedi fighting techniques and I follow all the latest news from the Council. I've always admired the Jedi." Her eyes swept down the length of him and back up again. "Some Jedi more than others," she murmured to herself with a coquettish grin. "And here we were all led to believe the Jedi Knights didn't come to the cathedral anymore." Her smile brightened.
Obi-Wan cocked an eyebrow. "Well, normally, no." He gestured at the departing tour group and the vendors crowded into the hall. "It's not really our cathedral anymore."
"A shame," the woman stated, her expression growing somber. "Aremont would be smart to continue to offer hospitality to Jedi."
Obi-Wan winced internally. He knew a Republic presence was the last thing Aremont's government wanted now. "That hardly seems likely...at this point," he replied skeptically.
"Yes, I know," the woman said and sighed heavily. "By the way, I'm Saloma P'tol," she told him eagerly. "If you aren't doing anything later, I'm attending a small gathering for dinner tonight and would be thrilled if you would accompany me."
"My name is Obi-Wan Kenobi," the Jedi replied. "Thank you for your offer, but we are departing early tomorrow morning and need to make final preparations." Preparations. He hadn't even told Anakin they were leaving yet.
Saloma's smile slipped. "Leaving? Didn't you just get here?"
Obi-Wan shook his head. "No. We've been here for quite some time. We met with the governor and his lieutenants earlier this week and we made a presentation on behalf of the chancellor at the final platform just before the elections."
"You weren't scheduled to appear there, were you?" Saloma questioned. "I would have attended if I had known."
"We should have been, but I get the distinct impression few people knew we were there. The attendance was poor that day." The Jedi gnawed his lower lip thoughtfully. "That would explain quite a bit."
Saloma leaned closer to him. "Well, since this is your last night here, why not make the most of it? Forget about politics, Obi-Wan. You don't really have anything to do tonight and I know you want to come out with me." She paused as something suddenly occured to her. "Wait a minute. You keep saying 'we.' Who's 'we'?"
"My padawan, Anakin Skywalker is here with me." Obi-Wan took a deep breath. She was standing so close to him now, he could smell her exotic, spicey perfume.
"A padawan? Well, bring him along! I love children!"
Obi-Wan smiled. "Anakin is sixteen. Not exactly a child."
"Oh. You can still bring him. I'm sure he'd enjoy a night out."
"We both would," the Jedi confessed. His eyes locked on hers and she smiled coyly, making his heart beat a little faster. For a moment, Obi-Wan was truly tempted, but then shook his head. "I'm sorry. We can't."
Saloma sighed heavily. "A pity. I would have really enjoyed getting to know you better." She looked down the hall in the direction the tour had gone, then turned and faced the Jedi again. "It was nice meeting you, Obi-Wan Kenobi. I only wish I would have known you were here all this time. I could have met you sooner. And your padawan." She smiled and started working her way down the hall, to catch up with the tour group.
"It was very nice meeting you as well," the Jedi responded. He stood where he was, watching her hurry away and sighed. He would have liked to have accepted her invitation. He knew he would have enjoyed her company and Anakin would have relished a real home-cooked meal for a change. Maybe it would have improved his demeanor, Obi-Wan thought.
As soon as his path became clear, he skirted around the corner, heading towards the enormous stone structure's quieter north side.
When he was very young, Obi-Wan had come to the cathedral with his classmates. It had been a different place then; a serenely beautiful and spiritual place. The Force's enhanced presence remained unchanged over the past century, but now it was hard for the young Jedi Master not to feel some pangs of loss as he edged his way along the cathedral's corridors clogged with tourists and souvenir merchants.
Obi-Wan made his way up long winding steps to the second floor, past many open windows to a narrow hallway shrouded in twilight shadows. He mentally thanked the setting sun, knowing the crowds would be heading home soon and the ancient corridors would once again become silent and serene.
During business hours, the north tower which faced Lake Seasey had restricted public access and was the only place in the entire cathedral that was occupied exclusively by Jedi. Its balcony beheld a breathtaking view of the lake and surrounding woods. Anakin seemed particularly fond of it and went out on the balcony every chance he could. Obi-Wan knew he would find the young Jedi there now.
He turned another corner and glided towards the second door on the left. He paused momentarily and peered in before entering. Despite the cold outdoor temperature, Anakin was there. He stared out at the partially frozen lake, deeply submerged in thought. As Obi-Wan drew up beside him, Anakin glanced his way and sighed.
"It's beautiful isn't it?" Anakin inquired, gesturing slightly towards the scenery with his hand. "Reminds me of Naboo in a way." His eyes narrowed and his handsome face contorted in displeasure as his mind turned to other things. "Doesn't it seem like the harder we try, the more we fail?"
Obi-Wan folded his arms over his chest, sliding his hands into the sleeves of his cloak and leaned his elbows on the rough stone ledge of the balcony's railing. He focused his gaze across the lake to the fields beyond. He could feel Anakin's disappointment and saw confusion and anger in his eyes.
"It may seem that way at times," Obi-Wan agreed. "Normally one fails due to lack of effort--not increased effort." The Jedi Master looked up at his padawan and frowned. "Don't take our failures so personally, Anakin. We were sent here to speak to the people of Aremont on behalf of the Republic. We did, and made a good, solid presentation. The people chose to secede though. It was their decision. We did everything we could." He paused and dragged his hand through his long fair hair, pushing it back, away from his eyes. "The politics of Aremont are no longer our concern."
Anakin faced Obi-Wan, his steely blue eyes widening. "No longer our concern? How can you say that?" He shook his head in disbelief. "And how can you accept what's happened so nonchalantly? Governor Spiget and his lieutenants twisted the arms of his people to vote against the chancellor. Now Aremont will no longer be a part of the Republic. We can't just accept this as fate and give up. The citizens who still support the Republic may be organizing as we speak. We can't abandon them. We are supposed to be honorable Jedi. We need to stay and fight for what we believe in."
"There is little else we can do at this point," Obi-Wan countered. "We can't pass judgement and denounce the new government like that just because they want to be independent. It's not the Jedi's way." The Jedi Master turned away from Anakin and took a deep steadying breath. The look in Anakin's eyes was unnerving.
"I don't understand," Anakin growled, clearly frustrated. "....Why would any system want to reject the economic security and lawful protection the Republic offers them?" Anakin placed his hand on Obi-Wan's arm and turned him to fully face him. "This is nothing less than a coup d'etat, carried out behind a thin veil of democracy," the younger Jedi whispered angrily. "This is not what the people of Aremont wanted, you know it and I know it, but we, as mere ambassadors, have to allow it." Anakin lowered his voice even further. "A revolution will follow. Of that I am certain." He nodded for emphasis and released his grip on Obi-Wan's arm.
"There won't be any revolution. This is a peaceful planet."
"That's presently under martial law," Anakin replied. He paused and visibly struggled to subdue his anger.
Obi-Wan furrowed his brow. "That's just a precaution."
Anakin exhaled forcefully. He massaged his eyes wearily and licked his dry lips.
"It's our duty to support the citizens of Aremont," the padawan announced. "This may not be over yet. This could be a way for us to bring Aremont back to the Republic."
Obi-Wan sighed heavily. "With aggression and bloodshed?" Irritation edged his tone as he said, "It's over, Padawan. Accept it. We need to look ahead now."
Stunned, Anakin looked at Obi-Wan and frowned. "So, I'm assuming we'll be leaving tomorrow after all?"
The older Jedi nodded. "Yes. I've made arrangements for a transport. It'll be very early. You should go and gather your things." Obi-Wan dropped his eyes and studied the dusting of snow on the balcony's flooring.
Anakin took two large steps towards the open doorway, then paused. Obi-Wan slowly raised his eyes to meet his padawan's.
"What?"
Anakin suddenly errupted with anger. "You are so unbending and so....high-minded! You refuse to even consider taking further action to help these people--to save them from an unethical dictator who will end up enslaving them. That's all right though because we made our presentation on behalf of the chancellor and now, without a backward glance, it's time to scurry back to Coruscant. After all, that is the way of the Jedi, isn't it? Don't you see how self-serving and apathetic that makes us look? Makes all Jedi look?" Anakin paused and lowered his voice. "Please, Obi-Wan. Let's stay a few more days. Maybe I'm wrong and there won't be any unrest. Can't we at least stay to make sure?"
The Jedi Master opened his mouth to speak but promptly closed it again, reviewing his thoughts before saying something he'd regret later.
"That's enough, Anakin," he managed in a tremulous voice. "Our mission is over. When a mission is over, be it a failure or a success, we move on. We will return to Coruscant and report to the Council. They will decide if further Jedi intervention here is necessary."
Anakin cast his eyes down in defeat and bowed stiffly in acquiescence. Without another word, he turned on his heel and stalked off the balcony.
It didn't matter that Anakin was right. Or even that Obi-Wan agreed with him. It was more important for Anakin to learn to concentrate his efforts on one mission at a time and not get distracted by a misguided sense of righteousness.
Obi-Wan knew from personal experience what could happen when a Jedi pursued a cause above and beyond the original mission based on private principles.
Obi-Wan's entire body slackened with fatique. He turned and leaned over the balcony railing, and focused on the lake and the stark winter scenery, trying to calm his raw nerves. He inhaled slowly, savoring the scent of ionized air in his nostrils. It would probably snow again soon.
Clouds were rolling in from the west. The wind was picking up and turning colder. Obi-Wan absently wrapped his cloak tighter around his shoulders. He closed his eyes and centered on the contrasting physical feelings of cold dampness on his face and the deep warmth of his heavily clothed body. It was then he felt the Force stirring; swirling darkly around him. He quickly opened his eyes and straightened slowly.
"Master! Come quickly!" Anakin's distant voice suddenly rang out.
Without hesitation, Obi-Wan raced off the balcony and up the narrow hall to the stone steps which wound back down to the first floor and the main sanctum.
Anakin stood at the bottom of the stairs, gazing across the corridor towards the antechamber where a large group of frightened tourists stood huddled together against the opposite wall from the great double doors. Anakin glanced over at Obi-Wan and directed his master's attention to a commotion just ahead of them.
Armed soldiers filed in, shouting orders not to move in various languages. The tourists leaned away from the soldiers and began crying out in alarm. One of the soldiers reached into the midst of the group and pulled out a well-dressed, dark-skinned woman. It was Saloma P'tol.
"What do you make of that?" Anakin breathed, addressing Obi-Wan without taking his eyes off the soldiers and the hapless woman, who was now the center of everyone's attention.
Obi-Wan shook his head in reply. "I'm not entirely sure. I met that woman just an hour or so ago. She was with the tourists."
As one soldier placed binders on Saloma's wrists, an officer addressed her:
"I am Captain Vrone of the Governor's internal military police force. Saloma P'tol, your position as Ergo's City Councilwoman has been subjected to termination under the new jurisdiction. We have been instructed to escort you to an internment camp in Maerske where your job skills will be reevaluated and a new occupation will be found for you that will be more suitable to the needs of our new regional dominion."
"The governor isn't wasting any time is he?" Saloma responded and lurched away from the soldier, colliding with some of the tourists along the wall.
"You have no authority!" one of the tourists protested. "She's not going anywhere with you!"
The soldiers seized Saloma's arms and began dragging her towards the exit.
"Do not resist," the officer told her. He raised his blaster, changing the setting to stun, and waved it menacing in front of her face. "I would rather not resort to this, but I will if you make me."
Anakin glanced at Obi-Wan and took a step forward. "I've seen enough."
Obi-Wan seized his arm to restrain him. "Careful, we don't want to endanger anyone. Let's just go find out what the situation is." He released his padawan and took a deep breath.
Together the two Jedi crossed the corridor to the antechamber. The soldiers saw them approach and immediately went on the defensive. They raised their weapons and surrounded Saloma as if protecting her from the Jedi. Captain Vrone stepped up to intercept them.
"Why are you arresting this woman? What has she done?" Anakin questioned, staring menacingly down at the captain.
"She is not under arrest," the officer related automatically. "We are here to escort her on behalf of Governor Spiget." Vrone suddenly scowled. "Just who do you think you are? You've no right to interfere."
Obi-Wan locked his eyes on Saloma. He could sense her confusion and fear. She gazed back at him pleadingly. Obi-Wan sighed.
"My name is Obi-Wan Kenobi. This is Anakin Skywalker. We are Jedi," he began. "We wish to intercede on behalf of this citizen."
"This does not concern you," Captain Vrone declared.
"Any injustice concerns us," Anakin put in. He moved to stand beside Saloma.
"They want to imprison me," Saloma told Anakin. "But I haven't broken any laws. I am outspoken, that is all." She faced Obi-Wan again. "I believe they are taking me away because my allegiance is to Chancellor Palpatine and the Republic. I voted against secession in the last council meeting."
Obi-Wan faced Captain Vrone. "Why do you come here with a platoon of soldiers for the apprehension of one woman? Are you arresting her for her political views?"
"There are others I was ordered to seek out this evening. She is one of many we will be escorting tonight. And I told you, she is not under arrest," Vrone repeated through clenched teeth.
"Why is she bound like a criminal then?" the tour guide boldly piped up.
Captain Vrone considered this, then motioned to his lieutenant to release Saloma. "It is only procedure, but I am willing to overlook it in this case." He turned his attention back to Obi-Wan. "I warning you, stay out of this. It's none of your business."
Anakin watched the lieutenant unlock the binders from Saloma's wrists, then stepped in between her and the soldiers. "Even if this woman's position was terminated, you still have no authority to take her to an internment camp," the young Jedi growled. "We are Jedi Knights! We have every right to intervene on her behalf!"
"Let the woman go!" called one of the tourist.
"Let us all go!" another added. "We haven't done anything either!"
Vrone turned on Anakin. "I don't give a damn who you are. I don't recognize your authority! I don't have to!" he snapped, pointing a long crooked finger at the Jedi. "And if you keep harassing my men and inciting this crowd, I will have you arrested for interfering with an official act."
Obi-Wan quickly moved between Captain Vrone and his padawan. He glared up at Anakin with a look of warning, then focused his attention back on the officer.
"We understand you and your soldiers are merely following orders. But the way in which you have chosen to execute those orders has created a potentially volatile situation," the Jedi Master pointed out. "Since Councilwoman P'tol is not under arrest, then release her and let her go about her business. Report back to your superior that she did not wish such an escort."
Vrone appeared to be ignoring the Jedi. He motioned for the soldiers to clear the antechamber. Both of the doors were opened and the soldiers began shoving the tourists out into the gardens. The captain glared at Obi-Wan and stepped closer to him until he was face to face with the Jedi. "When I'm given an order by my superior, I am expected to carry it out," Vrone snarled. Without warning, he roughly shoved Obi-Wan aside and reached around Anakin to grab ahold of Saloma. "Come with me now or I will arrest you!"
Saloma protested, yanking her arm free. She tried to get away from Vrone, but stumbled, falling at Anakin's feet. Vrone aimed his blaster at her. The remainder of the tourists cried out in alarm. Several bolted for the doors, crashing into the soldiers, dragging half the police force out with them.
Anakin's hand flew to his lightsaber.
"No Anakin!" Obi-Wan commanded, but in all the chaos, one of the soldiers had already fired and Anakin's blue lightsaber was activated by the time the blast reached it. Anakin contemptuously swatted the blast aside, stepping over Saloma, and catching the stun bolt from Vrone's blaster with a quick slash upwards. Obi-Wan's saber was activated now, deflecting the few shots fired in automatic retaliation at Anakin. The frightened tourists screamed. Vrone ducked a stray blast and whirled around to face his soldiers.
"Cease fire!" Vrone shrieked. "And clear this room at once!"
The soldiers obeyed. They warily lowered their weapons and then continued pushing the rest of the tourists out as their comrades fought their way back in.
Obi-Wan and Anakin exchanged glances, then simultaneously deactivated their lightsabers.
"You are all under arrest for assault," the captain seethed. "You have brought this upon yourselves."
Anakin shook his head. "Excuse me, Captain, but WE were the ones who were assaulted," he pointed out. Obi-Wan reached down and helped Saloma to her feet.
"Please," Saloma began breathlessly, addressing Vrone. "Let them go. They've done nothing. I'll go with you. Just free the Jedi."
"Don't surrender! Claim sanctuary!" the tour guide suddenly yelled, grabbing the doorframe with her hands to keep from being pushed out. "You're in a cathedral! In the presence of two Jedi. To them this sanctum is a spiritual place. Claim your sanctuary. Even these lawless rebels will recognize that authority."
"Shut up and get out!" Vrone ordered. A soldier grabbed the guide around her waist and pried her hands from the doorframe. The room grew eerily silent.
Obi-Wan turned to Saloma. "Sanctuary? What did she mean by that?"
"It is a long respected custom here on Aremont," Saloma explained, speaking quickly. "A condemned person, in a declaration of innocence or injustice, could flee to the cathedral to seek out any Jedi in residence for protection against their accusers."
Anakin stepped closer to his master and lowered his voice. "Yes, I remember reading about it once. When a person seeks sanctuary within these walls, authorities are not allowed to pursue them, even if the being in question is actually guilty of a crime." He paused and turned his attention to Saloma. "You would have to abide here indefinitely. Until we can sort this out. If you leave, they can seize you."
Obi-Wan looked at Saloma. "Is such a custom still viable here?"
"Yes....but, I cannot claim it. I am guilty of supporting the Republic which is the real reason they want me."
"But not of a crime!" Anakin whispered loudly. "The citizens know that!"
"The citizens will not speak up for me," Saloma told him. "They'll be too afraid of the consequences."
"If there is a chance however..." Obi-Wan urged.
"There is no chance!" Captain Vrone shouted, interrupting them. He made a sweeping gesture with his hand. "This is a tourists trap! It is not a hallowed cathedral anymore! You cannot claim sanctuary here!"
Frowning, Anakin shook his head. *He has a point, Master,* the young Jedi relayed telepathically.
Obi-Wan smiled slyly and faced Vrone. "Visitors may come here out of curiosity, but that does not change the true nature of this place. It has always been a sacred place for the Jedi, even if we cannot frequent it as we once did." He stretched out his hands and looked slowly around the antechamber. "The Force is strong here. It flows purely within these walls. That is why the Jedi came here. That is why this cathedral was erected on these grounds."
Captain Vrone motioned to his lieutenant, never taking his eyes off Obi-Wan. "These people are all under arrest. Bind them and bring them outside for processing."
Weapons raised, the soldiers hurried to obey and began surrounding Saloma and the Jedi. Obi-Wan closed his eyes and concentrated, letting the Force move through him. The double doors suddenly slammed shut and all the soldier's weapons were yanked from their grasps, rising into the air high above their heads. Stunned and silenced, the soldiers slowly backed away. Obi-Wan shuffled the blasters around once before sending them back into the hands of their owners.
The lieutenant licked his lips apprehensively. "They do have a point, Sir," he whispered. "As you just saw, their religion is still practiced here." He leaned closer to Vrone. "Taking them now would not be wise. A crowd has gathered in the gardens and they are shouting for the right of sanctuary to be recognized. It's that tour guide--she is inciting them. Making a spectacle of all this. There is no way to do this quickly and quietly as the governor instructed. Our intention is too conspicuous now."
Obi-Wan and Anakin exchanged glances. Vrone cursed under his breath and addressed the Jedi.
"You realize if you accept this woman's claim, you are required to remain here indefinitely as well?" Vrone informed.
Anakin looked back at Obi-Wan, his eyes pleading. Obi-Wan inhaled slowly. There was no time to confer with the Jedi Council on this matter. He already knew what his padawan wanted to do. He also knew a woman's freedom and possibly her life depended on his decision. Without another thought, Obi-Wan nodded curtly.
Vrone stared at the Jedi with an incredulous expression. "You would do this for a woman you don't even know? You would involve yourselves in this matter to that extent?"
"It is the Jedi's way," Anakin quipped and flashed a smile at Obi-Wan.
"No, I can't allow it," Saloma said, shaking her head, looking from Obi-Wan to Anakin.
"It is already done," Anakin replied, his heart nearly bursting with pride for his master. Saloma looked up at him anxiously. Anakin reached over and placed a large hand on her shoulder. He pulled her to him. "It'll be all right."
Vrone sighed heavily. He turned to face his soldiers. "Everyone out! Now! Arrest that rabble-rouser of a tour guide and disperse that crowd."
The soldiers scrambled to obey, reopening the doors and filing quickly out of the antechamber. Vrone followed without looking back. Soldiers closed the doors after him and suddenly the antechamber was deathly silent. Saloma put her hand to her chest to steady her heart's erratic thumping.
Obi-Wan exhaled breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding, and dragged his hand through his hair.
"I have to contact the Council," he mumbled, more to himself than Anakin. He stalked off down the corridor and up the stairs that led to the north tower, his long cloak billowing out behind him.
Saloma looked after him longingly, then sighed heavily and bowed her head.
Anakin walked over to the doors, opened one cautiously and peered out. It wasn't long before he sealed the door again, locked it, and then turned to face Saloma. "They're gone. You're safe now," he consoled. "And we'll stay with you, I promise. There's no need to be afraid."
Saloma gazed up at the young Jedi. She swallowed hard. "I'm not afraid," she whispered. "Not for myself, anyway." She took a deep breath and shook her head ruefully. "There are others who share my views who will be silenced now. And not just on Aremont, but all over the galaxy."
Obi-Wan hurriedly relayed the days events to a shimmering hologram of Yoda which was standing before him on a large table. He tried to keep his report factual and concise, but his sense of outrage and injustice soon crept in and made everything he said seem subjective.
The old Jedi Master's ears rose slightly and his large green eyes widened.
"Obi-Wan," he began. "From you, something like this I would have never expected ."
Obi-Wan's expression fell. His shoulders slumped under the weight of Yoda's words.
"Master Yoda, it was my decision to make and I made it. I wasn't influenced by anything but the situation at hand. Yes, it may have been impulsive, but I knew full well what would be expected of Anakin and myself should we become involved. There simply was no other option for the councilwoman. I would even go so far as to say the Force moved me to assist her knowing her plight and furthermore--"
Yoda began chuckling. His eyes narrowed now and he pointed a stubby finger at the younger Jedi. "So certain are you, chastisement I give? On the Force, you place the blame?" He laughed harder.
Obi-Wan straightened, somewhat indignant, and crossed his arms over his chest. "I take full responsibility for my actions," he responded, trying to be heard over the little master's hooting laugh.
Yoda immediately sombered. "Responsibility you shall take!" He mushed up his face and scowled. "Committed you are now. See this through, you must."
Dispirited, Obi-Wan bowed his head. "Master, I truly feel Anakin and I were meant to help this woman. The circumstances and timing were too well arranged. That is all I meant by that." He paused and moistened his lips. "Perhaps this is all just a misunderstanding. Maybe everyone overreacted. In any case, I will go to the regional governor tomorrow to speak with him. There are frightening totalitarian overtures in this action he's taken against his people. I need to discover his true intentions." Obi-Wan slowly raised his eyes to look at Yoda. "I fear we may be way over our heads in this planet's politics. Anakin feels a civil war may be close at hand. I believe he is right."
"Doubt a misunderstanding, I do. The governor, to avoid civil war, is trying. Cruelly, perhaps. New, he is. Despotic, maybe. Of your concern, this is not." Yoda began walking a small circle, his hologram wandering off the edge of the table and into thin air. "The first Jedi on Aremont to have such responsibility placed on them, you are not. In this situation, others have found themselves, but under these circumstances, the last you may be. Yourself be concerned, with Councilwoman P'tol only. Her welfare and well-being. Your charge, she is. Do what you need to protect her, you must. Fight her war, you cannot."
Obi-Wan opened his mouth to speak, but the holographic image of the Jedi Master faded and disappeared. Obi-Wan sighed heavily and walked out of the room.
Anakin led Saloma to the cathedral's north tower. Saloma looked around slowly, taking in her new surroundings with every step. When they came to the balcony overlooking the lake, she stopped and peered through the doorway curiously. Anakin paused to wait for her, watching her closely.
Saloma glanced up at him. "Can we go outside for a few minutes? I'd like to see the view, if you wouldn't mind."
Anakin shook his head. "Not at all."
"I won't be long," Saloma announced, stepping out onto the snow covered terrace and looking around.
"Do you wish to be left alone? Can I get you anything? Are you hungry?" Anakin asked her politely.
Shaking her head, Saloma moved to the balcony railing, pushing back the errant strands of blue-black hair that whipped across her eyes from the wind.
"I was supposed to go to a dinner party tonight," she began in a faraway tone of voice. "I had invited Master Kenobi along, did he tell you? We met earlier in the south foyer."
"No, he didn't mention it," Anakin replied. "But that hardly surprises me. He's not one for chit chat." Obi-Wan didn't really try to commicate with him much beyond lecturing, Anakin thought ruefully.
"Well, it's of no consequence really. He had declined my invitation because you two were supposed to be leaving early tomorrow." She paused and sighed. "Now, none of us can go anywhere or do anything." Saloma turned away from Anakin and rubbed her arms against the crisp evening air. "For all its beauty, this place is rather dark and unsettling at night. Too quiet, I guess. Not at all how I'm used to seeing it." She looked up at Anakin and forced a shaky smile.
Anakin gazed at her sympathetically. He knew she felt just as awkward and uncertain as he did, but he wasn't sure what to say or do to make things easier. "We have dried vegetables, and some caton root in the cellars for soup. I can go make some for you," the young Jedi tried again. "Would you like me to brew some tea for you?"
Saloma looked away from him. "No, thank you. Don't trouble yourself. I'm really not hungry. I seemed to have lost my appetite."
"Perhaps later then." Anakin fixed his eyes on her and crossed the balcony over to where she stood. "We should go back inside. It's getting colder now that the sun has set and it's going to start snowing any minute now."
"I'm all right, really, Anakin," Saloma said with a warm smile. "I'm actually enjoying the fresh air." She leaned against the railing and peered out at the heavy gray clouds. "I come to this cathedral as often as I can. It is very peaceful, very beautiful here. It's one of my favorite places to go in the city. I've never been up here before though."
"No, you wouldn't have," Anakin agreed. "They don't bring the tourists through here. So far, it still belongs to the Jedi. Not in an official contractual sense, but spiritually. This tower is the last vestige of true Jedi sanctity. This part of the cathedral hasn't changed in a hundred standard years."
"You speak so fondly of it," Saloma began. "I was under the impression this was your first time here."
Anakin lowered his eyes briefly. "It is. That doesn't mean I haven't been affected by it."
Saloma took a deep breath and turned to face Anakin. "I understand. You don't have to defend your feelings to me. I believe everyone who comes here is affected. Be they tourist, Jedi...or soldier."
"For a soldier, maybe it's the cathedral's history that demands respect. Maybe it's the tie-in to Jedi lore that the tourists find so alluring, but for the Jedi it's the Force's presence. The ancient masters believed it emanated from the lake. The waters are especially Force-sensitive," Anakin responded. "I come out here to be closer to its presence. It's peaceful...and pretty." He glanced up, noticing the snow beginning to fall. "I don't mind it here at all."
"I'm pleased to hear you feel that way," Obi-Wan quipped, striding onto the balcony. "We may be here for quite awhile." He stopped before his padawan and folded his arms across his chest. "Master Yoda has encouraged us to see this through to a satisfactory end."
"And what does a 'satisfactory end' mean?" Saloma addressed the older Jedi.
"An end in which all parties are satisfied?" Anakin guessed. He gazed at Obi-Wan with a wary expression.
The Jedi Master turned and looked out into the darkness of the wooded lake as the falling snow spotted his long mahogany-colored cloak.
"Yes. We will try to compromise this situation to a just conclusion," Obi-Wan began.
Anakin stiffened. "We can't compromise, Obi-Wan. We either stay here to protect Saloma or we leave her to rot."
Obi-Wan looked up sharply, his eyes flashing. "Don't trivialize this, Anakin. This is not a black or white issue. We know very little of the facts surrounding the events which transpired here. We have based everything we have done on a perceived danger which may not even exist. We acted rashly, but instinctively. There's nothing wrong with that, but now we need to proceed with eyes and minds open."
"So, do you have a plan?" Anakin asked, his manner more subdued. He scooped up a handful of snow from the railing and crushed it between his fingers until it melted.
Obi-Wan sighed. "Tomorrow, I'll go to meet with Governor Spiget. It all begins and ends with him."
Anakin nodded once. He placed his hand on Saloma's shoulder and gently urged her inside. "Let's get you out of this cold and settled down for the night. Obi-Wan and I will take turns watching."
"I'll take the first watch," Obi-Wan said quietly. "Go, get some rest. Both of you."
Saloma followed Anakin off the balcony. She glanced back at Obi-Wan and was stirred by the sight of the Jedi left standing alone in the snowy darkness. "You go on," she whispered to Anakin. "I want to speak with your master."
Anakin paused momentarily, studying Saloma with uncertainty. He didn't want them to discuss matters in his absence. "I can wait..."
"Don't worry, please," Saloma persisted. "I just want to thank him. I'll only be a minute. I know my way around, so you don't need to stay to guide me. Honest, I'll be all right." Before he could protest further, she hurried back out to the balcony.
Anakin stood and watched her disappear, then finally turned and ambled down the hall.
The silently falling snow was melting on his skin, numbing his lips, and prematurely graying his beard. For the most part, however, Obi-Wan was dry and comfortable and made no motion to retreat from the inclement weather. He replayed the night's events in his head, assuring himself that what he and Anakin did was the only thing they could do. The right thing to do.
*Keep your mind on the here and now* After all these years, Qui-Gon's gentle scolding was just as clear to Obi-Wan now as it had been when his master had first spoken it. It was as if Qui-Gon had never truly gone. His unbidden, but always appropriate, words of wisdom readily surfaced in Obi-Wan's mind whenever he needed them.
Obi-Wan wondered breifly if Anakin would recall his words as readily after he died.
*Keep your mind on the here and now* Qui-Gon's voice echoed. Obi-Wan grinned.
"Yes, Master."
No more thoughts of the past and what might have been; no more thoughts of the future and what could be....focus on the present. Right here. Right now.
It was then Obi-Wan sensed her. He turned, slightly startled. She easily blended into the shadows behind him, but her large eyes glistened like the jewels in her braided hair as she stepped towards him.
"I didn't mean to disturb you," Saloma began. "I hope I wasn't."
Struck by the ghostly elegant image she projected, Obi-Wan shook his head, unable to find his voice. It suddenly occurred to him that he would now be existing in extremely close quarters with this woman for an undetermined amount of time. He wasn't quite sure how he felt about that. She had stirred up emotions inside him he'd forgotten he had when they were innocently making eyes at each other in the foyer. The fascination he sensed she felt for him now didn't help ease the awkwardness of their situation.
"I just wanted to thank you," Saloma continued, as if to reassure him. "I know I have placed a great burden on your shoulders and put you in a tense position with Aremont's new governor." She paused, waiting, but the Jedi said nothing. "I just want you to know how grateful I am that you have deemed me worthy of this demonstration of Jedi valor."
"Well, we couldn't have just stood by and let you be taken away," the Jedi mumbled.
"Why not? It's not like you really knew me," Saloma countered. "I could have been a dangerous criminal trying to avoid justice." She paused and regarded Obi-Wan thoughtfully. "Did I make that good of an impression on you in the foyer?"
"It's a Jedi's way," he replied dryly. Obi-Wan appeared to be giving her his undivided attention, but Saloma noticed he seemed ill-at-ease. "Now if you'll excuse me--" he pressed.
"I have disturbed you, haven't I? I'm sorry. I thought perhaps we could talk, it would help to take our minds off our troubles," Saloma offered, hopefully. "There's little else to do here. We can get to know each other better. Which I was hoping to do tonight anyway, just under different circumstances, if you remember."
"Talk?" Obi-Wan repeated, sounding surprised by such a notion. "Certainly it can wait until morning. I'm actually trying to keep my mind ON our troubles. I need to figure out exactly what we need to do to resolve this issue. I'd rather not be distracted." His words and tone sounded harsher than he intended, but she was the last person he wanted around him at the moment. She was already proving to be a major distraction in more ways than one. He closed his eyes and took a deep steadying breath. "It's getting late, Councilwoman. Go try to get some rest."
"I'm sorry," Saloma told him quietly, but was clearly undaunted by his dismissal and continued peering up at him with wide, hypnotizing eyes, expecting him to say something. Or do something. Obi-Wan noticed the corners of her mouth turned up slightly, encouragingly. A snowflake settled gracefully on her long eyelashes. He watched it slowly dissolve into a tiny, perfect sphere of water just before she blinked it away.
The Jedi cleared his throat brusquely. "Where is Anakin?" Obi-Wan asked. He looked towards the door expectantly.
Saloma hugged herself in a futile attempt to keep warm. "He's gone on ahead. I told him I wanted to talk to you. He respected my wishes."
Obi-Wan frowned. Clearly, she had no intention of going back inside and leaving him in peace to sift through the debris of their predicament. The Jedi's frown deepened as Saloma's teeth began chattering in the cold.
"Here, take this," Obi-Wan ordered her. He quickly slipped out of his cloak and wrapped it tightly around the trembling woman standing before him.
Saloma smiled gratefully and reveled in the deeply soft warmth that now surrounded her body. She hugged the cloak to her chest and inhaled the pleasant masculine aromas of oiled leathers and musky linen.
"Oh, thank you! This is marvelous! I love it!" She couldn't resist twirling around several times, feeling like a young girl in her first gown.
Her graceful revolutions caused the snow to swirl up around her in a shimmering white cyclone. Obi-Wan watched her, mesmerized. When she stopped spinning, she tottered dizzily towards him. Her laughter reminded him of windchimes in a summer's breeze. Tentatively, he reached out a hand to steady her. She stood gazing up at him with those midnight sky eyes of hers, snowflakes settling lightly on her blue-black hair.
The Jedi couldn't help but smile back and gently lifted the hood of the cloak to place it carefully over her hair.
"You're very welcome," he replied softly, genuinely pleased to have made her so happy so easily. His hands lingered on the cowl as he studied her finely chiseled features. She possessed a delicate, exotic beauty that Obi-Wan found irresistibly attractive. He suddenly felt Saloma's hands delicately cover his. She squeezed them lightly.
"Thank you...again," Saloma told him. She locked her eyes on him as she reached up and casually brushed a stray lock of wet hair away from his eyes with her fingers. "Obi-Wan?" she whispered. Her full lips were parted slightly, invitingly.
Obi-Wan's heart began to pound inside his chest. He tried desparately not to let his better judgement be swayed by this woman who's mere presence kept him prisoner in this dark, cold tower. But when he looked into her eyes, all rational thought processes seemed to screech to a halt. He stared back at her, entirely entranced. She was standing so close to him. Her mouth seemed mere inches from his. Did she want this too? he thought. He bent slowly to kiss her. "...Yes?"
"Obi-Wan," she breathed, suddenly turning her head to the side. "Please don't be angry with me. I really didn't want this."
The Jedi straightened sharply and took an involutary step backwards as if she had struck him. "I'm not angry with you," he declared defensively. "Why would you think that?"
Saloma looked down. "I can tell you are angry. But I don't blame you. This is quite stressful. The uncertainty of it all makes things difficult."
"....What?" Confused and a little angry with himself, Obi-Wan thought she was referring to his insolent and premature attempt to act on their attraction to each other.
Saloma peered up him curiously for a moment before continuing. She licked her lips apprehensively before continuing. "I was hoping you would let me share some of your burden. You shouldn't have to bear the weight of this entirely on your shoulders. I want you to know you can count on me to help any way I can."
Now the Jedi realized Saloma was referring to the sanctuary. Closing his eyes, he paused and inhaled a deep lungful of the cold night air to clear his head. He mentally chastised himself for letting his thoughts wander from significant matters.
"If it will make things easier for you, I'll meet with the governor tomorrow. I'll know if he's telling the truth or not," she concluded with a self-satisfied smile.
Obi-Wan's eyes widened. "Don't be absurd. You can't," the Jedi Master said as if addressing a stubborn child. He gestured out into the darkness with a wave of his hand. "Vrone's soldiers are out there now. Watching and waiting for opportunity to strike. They'll take you if you leave here. You know that!"
Shrinking back in dismay, Saloma looked up at him with soft, misty eyes. Obi-Wan couldn't tell if she was on the verge of tears or if it was just the melting snow. Either way, his temper quickly deflated to remorse.
"I didn't mean alone!" the councilwoman snapped back in a quivering voice before he could utter anything resembling an apology. "Besides, if I was wearing this, they'd never know it was me." She grasped the top of the hood of the cloak and pulled it farther down, concealing her face.
Obi-Wan's temper flared up again. He pushed the hood back, grasped her chin in his hand and forced her to look up at him. He shook his head. "Listen to me. You are not to step foot outside this cathedral, is that understood? I don't care if you are wearing a wookie suit."
Saloma's eyes flashed as she yanked her chin away from his hand. "You don't really expect me to stay encapsuled here, do you? I can't just stay here! I have a city to run. I have constituents to support. A lot of citizens depend on me. I might as well go off to the internment camp if I can't be out among my people."
Obi-Wan couldn't believe his ears. "What?! Do you think Anakin and I have nothing better to do than wait this thing out?" Saloma spun away from him to leave, but he grabbed her arm and turned her back around to face him. "I will do everything in my power to resolve this quickly and to a 'satisfactory end,' Councilwoman. Until I do, I am responsible for your safety and well-being, and I'll be damned if I'm going to allow you to jeopardize yourself due to some half-witted work ethic on your part."
"Try dedication, Master Kenobi!" Saloma shot back, jerking her arm free. "DEDICATION!"
"I don't care what it is!" Obi-Wan yelled.
"Fine! All I can say to that is: Just try to stop me!"
Obi-Wan was stunned by her defiance. She obviously didn't find him the least bit intimidating. Somewhere along the way, he had lost her respect for his authority as well. So, how could he stop her? Even though she was acting like an errant child, he certainly couldn't take her over his knee.....
Saloma eyed the Jedi warily, then started edging away from him, as if she was fearing he was plotting something deviant.
"Very well," Obi-Wan said evenly, struggling to regain control of his wild emotions. "Since you won't listen to reason, you'll have to give me back my robe."
Shock and disbelief stared back at the Jedi. "No!" Saloma declared, clinging to the cloak with all her strength.
"You are not leaving this cathedral so hand over my robe," Obi-Wan repeated. "Now!"
"Come and get it," the councilwoman challenged. She teasingly dodged away from the irked Jedi.
Obi-Wan sprung after her and seized the lapels of the cloak, trying to pry them from her grasp. "Stop acting like a child!" he growled. "I'm in no mood for games."
"Let go of me!" She tried to maintain her hold, turning herself completely around until her back was crushed against Obi-Wan's chest, his arms encircling her. She struggled harder to get away from him, elbowing him sharply in the ribs.
The Jedi cursed, caught off guard. He had underestimated her strength. She seemed so small and dainty before.
"Councilwoman P'Tol, if you wish to retain a molecule of my respect and what little dignity you may have left, you will surrender my cloak now!" The thrashing woman in his arms suddenly grew still, but now she was laughing so hard she could barely stand up straight.
Obi-Wan took a long deep breath, fighting the urge to smile, but the sweet bell-like peals of her laughter were infectious.
"May the Force be with me, what have I gotten myself into?" he growled teasingly at her and laughed.
"I was beginning to wonder that myself." Saloma inhaled slowly and wiped at her watering eyes. "Thank you. I really needed that."
Obi-Wan smiled, feeling more relaxed and at ease now than he had all day. "....My pleasure," he told her in a silky voice.
Saloma suddenly frowned. "Look, I promise, I won't leave the cathedral." She paused and turned her head to face him, her hands caressing his. "Don't take your cloak back. I'm so pleased you gave it to me to wear. It's so soft and warm. It comforts me. It feels like your arms are around me, holding me...telling me everything will be all right...."
Saloma's words drilled straight through the Jedi's heart. "My arms ARE around you," he whispered in her ear. Gazing into her large, gray eyes, Obi-Wan sighed heavily. His breath billowed forth like an icy cloud in the crisp night air.
Saloma peered up at him. "But you can't hold me all the time," she said gently and smiled.
"Then...keep the cloak," Obi-Wan told her in a throaty voice. "If it comforts you..." He paused to swallow down a lump forming in his throat, "How can I refuse?" He tentatively nuzzled her cheek and gathered her closer to him. She sighed softly with contentment and settled back into his arms.
Obi-Wan was immediately aware of how good she felt pressed so tightly against him. Holding her was intoxicating his blood; making him slip into a blissful, carefree state of mind, which was a dangerous state of mind for a Jedi responsible for someone's life to be in. He closed his eyes and bit down on his lower lip. Somewhat reluctantly, he lowered his arms and released her.
Saloma whimpered in protest. "What's the matter?"
The snow creaked under his boots as Obi-Wan quickly crossed the length of the balcony to put some distance between them. He shivered, feeling uncomfortably cold minus his cloak...and without Saloma's warm body reclining against him. He tried hard not to look in her direction even though he could sense her eyes on him.
"Go inside and have Anakin get you something to eat," the Jedi ordered in a tone that dared contradiction. "I'll be in...soon."
Saloma buried her hands in the sleeves of the cloak, folding her arms over her chest. She fixed her gaze on him, her mouth drawn in a quirky line of indecision. "What's wrong with letting yourself feel now and then?" she whispered.
The Jedi looked up at her, struck by her curious choice of words. It was as if she knew the battles his mind fought with his heart. He cleared his throat.
"You're feeling vulnerable right now. It's very understandable, but it's wrong of me to take advantage of your emotions the way they are." He paused and slowly looked away from her again. "Go, I'll be right behind you," Obi-Wan said as if he was close to pleading. She remained where she was but he refused to look at her. He knew he'd be lost in her eyes again if he did. Finally she turned away from him, stalked off towards the doorway, and almost crashed into Anakin as he was hurrying in.
"Obi-Wan, there is someone at the door. A man--asking for the councilwoman," Anakin quickly explained.
Obi-Wan finally faced Saloma. "Stay up here. Don't come down until we know for sure it is safe," he told her. He brushed stiffly past her and headed for the stairs with Anakin at his heels.
"You must let me in, I have to see her!" the man behind the door was saying. "Just tell me if she's all right then."
Obi-Wan's hand moved to his lightsaber as he motioned for Anakin to open the door. The snow-covered man all but fell into the entryway. He hurriedly righted himself and looked around wildly. Anakin shoved him roughly against the doorframe and patted him down for concealed weapons. He stepped back and shook his head at Obi-Wan.
"He's not carrying anything," the young Jedi stated.
Obi-Wan closed the door and faced the man. His skin was black in color, like Saloma's, slightly younger, tall, and athletically built. He was disheveled but wearing an expensive coat and spoke with a refined accent.
"Who are you?" Obi-Wan demanded.
"I came to see Saloma. I am her brother, Nare." He paused to try to catch his breath, searching the wary faces of the Jedi. "Please. Tell me if she is all right. When I heard, I feared the worst. They've been taking people away all over the city. I snuck out of my apartment before they got to my building. There are others who have gotten away. Those people are organizing now, ready to fight back. Please, I've been up all night, searching for my sister. Someone told me she was here...that she has claimed sanctuary. Is it true?"
"Saloma is well. She is up in the north tower," Obi-Wan reassured him.
Nare pointed a long finger at Obi-Wan. "You two are the Jedi who protect her," he surmised.
Obi-Wan bowed slightly. "Yes. I am Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi. This is my apprentice, Anakin Skywalker."
"I'm very pleased to meet you both. I am also indebted to you for your assistance."
"Where are Vrone's forces now?" Anakin questioned, bypassing any further small talk. "Has there been any aggression shown towards the people who have organized?"
"No. Not yet. It's all very clandestine. Vrone's forces are all over the city though. The governor has sent out more troops to help deal with the resistance while Vrone gathers the dissidents." Nare looked over at Obi-Wan sadly. "All the other council members have been taken. Even the mayor and his family. The governor wants total regional control and anyone who still stands by the Republic, who's vote is on record as being against the secession, has been labeled an enemy of Aremont. It has been decreed."
"They traced the votes? That's illegal in a planetary election," the Jedi Master declared.
"Only the Republic has such laws now," Nare replied.
Obi-Wan sighed heavily. Ergo seemed to be crumbling all around them and they were powerless to help. He looked at Anakin. His padawan wouldn't meet his gaze.
"Nare!"
Everyone looked up as Saloma excitedly descended the stairs.
"Sal!" Nare ran towards her, catching her up in his outstretched arms. They hugged and kissed each other, then both dissolved in tears of joy as they stumbled towards the inner sanctum to talk.
Obi-Wan turned back to face Anakin. "The Jedi Council is aware of what is happening here," he began stiffly. "I told Master Yoda in my last report."
"But you didn't believe me when I told you this would happen," Anakin answered. "You kept going on about how peaceful Aremont was. Why would you turn around and tell Master Yoda what I said?"
Obi-Wan lowered his eyes briefly. "It's not that I didn't believe you. I was trying to keep you focused. A Jedi must learn to limit himself. It requires a very strong discipline that's difficult, but necessary if we are to function as an order."
Anakin ground his teeth angrily. "I already know this rhetoric, Obi-Wan, so don't bother." He brushed past his master and quickly jabbed the exit code into the door lock, opening the door.
"Anakin!"
"This has happened because of our failure and I'm not referring to our presentation as representatives of the Republic," the padawan seethed, raising the hood of his cloak against the wind as he stepped outside. "Our presentation was a waste of time, Obi-Wan. Those citizens were so intimidated, they wouldn't have voted any other way. I told you that. Now we have proof. The entire election was nothing but a facade. A way for the governor to illegally identify anyone who still opposed him."
Obi-Wan swallowed hard. "We had no way of knowing that at the time. You didn't suspect anything yourself until the vote for secession passed. Then you were so outraged by the fact that a system could want out of the Senate, you started accusing everyone involved of foul play. But there was no evidence to back it up. We can't act entirely on suspicions, Anakin. To me, it didn't seem that extraordinary. Systems are turning away from the Republic more and more these days." He paused and took a long, deep breath. "The Republic isn't what it used to be."
Anakin shook his head. "The Jedi Knights aren't what they used to be either." He turned and stomped off through the snow towards the outer gardens.
Obi-Wan swore under his breath. "Where are you going?" he called after his padawan.
The helpless desperation in Obi-Wan's voice made Anakin pause and face him. The anxious, sorrowful look on his master's face warmed his heart and cooled his hot blood. He took a deep calming breath and summoned a small reassuring smile. "Don't worry, my friend," he told Obi-Wan in a soft voice. "I'm just going to have a look around. Maybe I can glean something useful. I'll stay out of sight. I promise."
Obi-Wan nodded slowly and withdrew from the threshold. He closed the door behind him.
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