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If I Don't Catch You
Let the author know what you thought of this story!
Drop Julie a note...tall_terror@hotmail.com.
Join The If I Don't Catch You Series Discussion on the Feedback Board.
Go to Part 2.
Back to Fan Fiction.
Star Wars belongs to LFL.
Chapter 1

Qui-Gon's brow furrowed slightly as he lay on the cool metal floor of the Queen's ship.  He breathed deeply and carefully to steady his heart and mind.  The ease in which his strange attacker had fought him and matched his lightsaber's every thrust and parry worried him.  This is not good.   He looked up to see his Padawan, Obi-Wan Kenobi and young Anakin Skywalker rushing to kneel beside him.  He almost smiled at the nearly identical looks of worry and excitement on their faces.

"Are you all right!?" Anakin asked with wide fearful eyes.  Obi-Wan looked just as anxious.

The Jedi Master nodded and began to prop himself up on his elbows.  "I think so," he said seriously.  "That was a surprise I won't soon forget."

Obi-Wan's expression hardened.  It had shocked him greatly to see his Master fighting in a lightsaber duel outside of the ship. I should have been outside waiting for him.  Why didn't I sense danger?  I should have known! he berated himself.

"What was that?" Obi-Wan tried to ask calmly.

Qui-Gon took another deep breath.  "I'm not sure.  Whoever or whatever he was, he was well trained in the Jedi arts.  My guess is he was after the Queen."

"Do you think he'll follow us?" Anakin asked quickly.

"We'll be safe once we're in hyperspace," Qui-Gon replied, sidestepping the question.  "But I have no doubt he knows our destination.  If he found us once, he can find us again."

The boy's face became a mask of determination.  "What are we going to do about it?"  he inquired.

The look on Obi-Wan's face was priceless.  He stared straight at the boy in surprise.  What does this little kid mean by we?  Anakin saw the look, but didn't react to it.

Qui-Gon did smile this time.  "We will be patient.  Anakin Skywalker, meet Obi-Wan Kenobi."

The boy beamed and said in a cheerful voice.  "You're a Jedi, too?  Pleased to meet you!"

"Obi-Wan is my Padawan, my apprentice," Qui-gon clarified.  "He is training to be a Knight."

Obi-Wan helped his Master stand up and they exited the entry.  As they walked down the passage Anakin could hardly keep from skipping.  Another Jedi!  Wizard! Anakin thought as the fear and worry from earlier drained away.  This is going to be great!  As they walked he looked up, down and around trying to see everything he had missed when he bolted into the ship before.  He was thrilled when they entered the cockpit.

Look at all the stars!  Anakin's mind whirled.  And then they jumped to lightspeed.

Of course, Ani's never seen hyperspace. Qui-Gon glanced down in amusement as Anakin's jaw dropped open.

Obi-Wan looked up just in time to catch the direction of the soft smile on his Master's face.  I have a bad feeling about this.

**********

Traveling through space is not all its cracked up to be.  Even a comfortable and luxurious yacht like the Queen's transport felt tiny, cramped and overrun with people.  Especially when you didn't want anyone watching you perform Force exercises.  In the guest cabin assigned to the Jedi, Obi-Wan sat in a meditative pose and attempted for the umpteenth time to relax into the Force.

I won't open my eyes.  I won't sigh.  I won't grimace.  I won't fidget.  I won't... he chanted in his head.  I can't believe this!  This shouldn't bother me! In defeat he briefly cracked one eye open to steal a glance at the only other occupant in the room.

Why is he still here?

The evening had progressed cheerfully.  The Jedi and Anakin had eaten with the ship's crew.  The pilots enjoyed talking to Anakin and amazed him with tales of their escape from the Trade Federation's clutches.  The boy soaked up all of the attention with glee.  Afterwards, Obi-Wan had retired to meditate as usual before sleeping.  Anakin had followed him like a puppy and begged to see "that wizard Jedi stuff."  Qui-Gon hadn't disapproved and left to speak with the Queen and her advisors.  So, Obi-Wan agreed to let Anakin follow him around.  It would only be temporary.  After all, such a young boy would quickly become bored watching him do nothing but sit.

Anakin squirmed in a vain attempt to find a soft spot on the cold metal.  His brow furrowed in concentration.

Obi-Wan is trying to do something again.  But what? Anakin thought as he stared with rapt attention at Obi-Wan's expressionless face.  It was fascinating.  To all outward appearances, Obi-Wan was the picture of perfect calm, but Anakin knew he couldn't be.  Not on a floor this hard!  Anakin looked down and bit his lip in confusion.  Is something wrong?  He didn't see Obi-Wan's quick glance down at him.

Suddenly, Anakin gasped, "I'm messing you up!" he exclaimed in surprise.

Obi-Wan gave up all pretense at meditating and opened his eyes.  "What do you mean?" he inquired stoically.

"I'm sorry," the boy said contritely.  "I didn't mean to disturb you.  I'll just go now.  Good night!"  Before Obi-Wan could reply, Anakin scurried out of the room and down the hall.

Obi-Wan couldn't help be feel relieved that the boy had gone.  He found it bizarre that his Master's latest stray had decided to latch onto him instead of Qui-Gon.  At least the boy was polite when he left.  He could have fussed that I was doing nothing and declared Jedi stuff to be dumb or something to that effect, he thought.  But, just for a second, something nagged him that the boy hadn't answered his question.


Chapter 2

Anakin slunk into the empty pilots' barracks.  I am soooo stupid!  Anakin could've kicked himself.

I should have known I'd be a distraction!  But Obi-Wan looked so calm and serious.   He must think I'm a pest,
Anakin thought.

Grabbing his bag by the door he miserably climbed up to the top bunk that he'd been assigned to.  It was cozy and comfortable.  And he was just short enough to sit without banging his head against the ceiling.  He kicked off his shoes and rummaged idly through his few belongings.

What exactly was Obi-Wan trying to do anyway?  The young man hadn't explained it to him or said anything.  He'd simply settled down on the floor and closed his eyes.  Anakin set his bag at the end of the bed.  He slid to the middle of his bunk and tried to imitate what he'd seen.  He closed his eyes and breathed evenly.

This is boring.

How could Obi-Wan sit so long on such a hard, cold floor?!  Why would he want to?  Anakin shifted on his soft bed.  I have got to be doing something wrong.  But he didn't dare go back and ask Obi-Wan.  Anakin picked at the edges of his blanket in frustration.  Maybe Master Qui-Gon won't mind explaining tomorrow morning?  Then the Jedi Master's advice from before the Boonta Eve race came back to him.  "Feel, don't think."

Okay, I'll just try not thinking.

No thinking?!  Easier said than done.

For the first time he really thought about the words that Qui-Gon had said.  How exactly do you not think?  But, somehow it had worked during the race.  Of course he hadn't sat still then and he certainly didn't keep his eyes closed.  Why wasn't it working?

**swish**

The door slid open and several crew members filed in to sleep.  Anakin craned his neck over the edge of his bed to look down at the new arrivals.  They looked tired and their earlier merriment was gone.  Anakin sat back again and tried to be still.

I'm not thinking.  I'm not thinking at all.  Nope, not thinking about anything.  I'm not thinking about how dumb this is.

I'm still doing something wrong, he huffed in irritation.  One of the men looked up.  "You need to get some sleep, Ani," he kindly reminded him as the others all crashed into their own bunks.  Soon the room became still and the only sounds were the occasional snore.  But Anakin wasn't sleeping...

Smoke.
Some sort of smashing sound.
That thing that attacked Master Qui-gon.
Is that blaster fire?
Bright columns of energy.
Wow, that's so high!
Why is it noisy?
Flying a starfighter would be so wizard!
Where is that scream coming from?
It's getting louder.
I can't hear myself think!
Why won't it STOP?!

**gasp**

Anakin's eyes snapped open.  He jumped slightly and bumped his head on the ceiling.  Frantically, he looked around the dark, silent room.  His already heavy breathing quickened and his heart pounded in his chest.  He shivered.


Chapter 3

Where am I? Anakin started to panic.

Oh yeah, the starship.  The Queen's ship that the Jedi brought me to.  Fuzzily, the events of the day came back to him.  He reached up to rub his stiff neck and stretch his sore back.  Why am I sitting up like this?  He shivered again.  The room had lost its earlier feeling of coziness and the darkness was suddenly very overwhelming.

Silently, Anakin crawled down the ladder to the floor.  He carefully crept across to open the door and winced when it swished opened.  He didn't think the noise would wake anyone, but the light might.  To his relief the hallway was only dim.  As the door slid shut behind him he began to wish it lighter.

He couldn't remember ever being afraid of the dark before.  Why was it bothering him now?  Maybe it's just that dream.  And the cold, he tried to reason away.

Why didn't I get my shoes?

At the end of the passage he came into the central chamber.  Inside he was surprised to see Jar Jar sprawled in a chair, head back and snoring.  But then he remembered that the Gungan was too tall to fit in the ship's bunks.  Even so, he could have stretched out on the bench seats.  Or maybe Gungans just like sleeping up.  Anakin smiled when Artoo trilled a quiet welcome from the corner.  He quickly curled up in a seat and removed the little pouch he always had tied to his belt.  In it was a tiny, folded knife and a piece of japor wood.  Wood of any kind was rare on Tatooine and he'd been saving this piece for a long time.  Carefully, he began to carve the edges with swirls and eddies like in the pictures he'd seen of rivers and waterfalls.

Bits of the dream flashed in his mind.  If Mom was here I'd tell her about the starfighters I saw.  Or maybe not, she wouldn't like it.  I know she'd worry if she knew I've been dreaming of a space battle.  He imagined his mother's sad face with a frown.  Nope.  I wouldn't have told her about this dream at all, he sighed as he bored a hole through the wood so that it could serve as a pendant.

I meant to make this for Mom, he thought.  Unbidden tears collected in his eyes.  I am not going to cry.  I'm not!

**********

The next morning saw the return of Anakin's cheerfulness.  Padmé had noticed him shivering in the central chamber during the night.  She'd wrapped him a blanket and held him until he fell asleep.  Anakin was glad he gave the little japor snippet to her.  Padmé was so nice, she deserved something special like that.

"Good morning, Ani,"  Padmé said as she entered the room after breakfast.  "What are you doing?"

Anakin was seated at the table and drawing on a pad of the Queen's Official Memo pad plasti-paper.  The sheets littered the tabletop.  "I'm designing a droid," he announced proudly.

Padmé smiled indulgently.  "That's nice, Ani," she said as she moved around the table to look over his shoulder. "What type of..." she stopped speaking suddenly.  The "drawings" weren't the sketches she expected but detailed schematics.  Even after seeing the podracer and droid that Anakin had built on Tatooine, it still surprised her.

"Maybe the Jedi will let me build it..." Anakin sighed wistfully.

"Maybe,"  Qui-Gon answered from the entryway.  "Did you enjoy meditating with Obi-Wan yesterday?" he inquired.

Medit-what?  Oh!  So that's what it's called!

"No, Master Qui-Gon, sir.  I mean, only Obi-Wan was meditating," Anakin stumbled out.

"Well then," the Jedi Master replied, "would you like me to show you how?"

"Yes, sir!" Ani exclaimed and hastily began gathering up his papers into a rough pile.

Qui-Gon and Padmé just looked at each other and smiled as she walked out of the room.  Ani, I envy the Jedi who will be your master, Qui-Gon thought sadly.  Perhaps I...?

"Come with me, Ani," he said and turned down another passage.  They walked to the Jedi's cabin.  Or rather, Qui-Gon walked and Anakin trotted.

"Sit here on the floor and be as still as you can," Qui-Gon's deep voice intoned.  "Close your eyes and reflect."

Reflect?  Oh, so you are supposed to think!  Anakin immediately copied him on the metal decking and watched as a look of peace stole across his features.

"Clear your mind and wait for the Force," Master Qui-Gon said as he closed his eyes.  However, he didn't meditate, but stayed completely alert.  Anakin had shown surprising affinity for using the Force unconsciously.  He waited quietly for any sign that Anakin might be able to control it.

Anakin was perplexed.  It sounded easy, but he knew from his attempts yesterday that it was in fact very hard.  He stole a quick look at the Jedi Master's serene countenance.

He knows I just opened my eyes!

Anakin tried to relax.  Okay clear out the mind time.  Move it, all you pesky thoughts about how much I hate sitting on metal!  Hit the space lanes!

Yeah, I mean you!


Chapter 4

Anakin didn't like meditating.  He was quite sure of it.  Qui-Gon ended the practice after he had managed to remain still about fifteen minutes.  It felt like hours.  Anakin nearly fell over trying to stand up.

"You did well, Ani," Qui-Gon encouraged.  He was amazed at the way the Force had swirled around Anakin while he was meditating.  It almost seemed to be playing with the small boy the way it crashed wildly and blew through him.  However has Ani managed to cope with the Force all this time?

Anakin's head jerked up in shock.  I...did...well?  No way!  The only thing I felt was my feet go numb!

"Thank you, Master Qui-Gon," Anakin answered.  Jedi don't lie, but I know I did terrible.

"Let's go see what Obi-Wan is doing, shall we?"  Qui-Gon invited.  It appeared as though the boy had little in the way of mind shielding, but that was to be expected.  Anakin would be a challenge and privilege to teach.  Master Yoda will probably insist that, "Train this boy, only I can," he thought with mild irritation.  For the first time, he regretted refusing to accept that temporary seat on the Council.  But then if I had I would've never found this boy, he mused.

Obi-Wan was in a medium-sized storage bay of the ship.  It was nearly empty with a few long cargo boxes stacked against one wall.  It was too small for lightsaber dueling, but ideal for simple exercises.  He was currently practicing balance.

The Jedi master and Anakin entered to see Obi-Wan standing upside down and holding himself up with only one finger.  His Padawan braid just brushed the floor.  Qui-Gon watched Anakin's face waiting to see how the boy would react.  Anakin's blue eyes widened only a little and he was certainly very surprised, but he said nothing.

Good, Qui-Gon thought.  He passed the test.  Anakin's reaction was an important factor in how he would be trained in the Force.  Had he responded with disgusted disbelief or extreme awe it would take a long time to unlearn.

Anakin was incredulous.  There is no way I'll try that on my own!

**********

"Greetings, Master," Obi-Wan called from the center of the room.  He's brought the kid with him, he noticed.  He could see that Anakin was scrutinizing him intently.  Am I now on display?  Obi-Wan's lips tightened in annoyance.  Or shall I serve as a practice dummy for Master Qui-Gon to demonstrate the Force with? he thought sarcastically.

"Don't let us interrupt you, Padawan," Qui-Gon reassured.

He guided the boy to the far wall and chose several of the long, narrow boxes.  "I want you to walk slowly along the top of these," he directed as he laid the boxes out down the length of the room to form a crude balance beam.

"Some of these will wobble and others are not quite the same height, but don't let that worry you.  Concentrate on putting one foot in front of the other."

"Yes, sir," the boy replied.  The first box came nearly up to his knees.

Ah, Obi-Wan observed.  Now is the time for bumps and bruises.  His eyes followed Anakin as he safely traversed the row of boxes without incident.  Anakin's face was cool and collected as he turned and walked back again.

I sense something... Obi-Wan was confused.  Gently, he widened his range of perception.  It's the boy! he realized in surprise.  So this is what Master Qui-Gon felt.  To endeavor to become a Jedi at his age is admirable, but can he?  He dropped deeper into the Force and focused intently on Anakin...

**thump!**

Obi-Wan winced in sympathy as Anakin tumbled off on his fourth walk.  That had to hurt.

But the boy didn't stay down long.  Quickly, he stepped back up and balanced again.  Qui-Gon smiled in approval.  "Speed up a little," he prompted.  Anakin easily jogged down and back.

You poor kid.  You have no idea what you are in for, do you?  Just wait until my Master tells you to run it.

"Now, run along it, Ani," Qui-Gon instructed.

He's doomed, Obi-Wan decided.

**********

I could do this with my eyes closed. Anakin confidently strode on top of the boxes.  He didn't mind though.  He'd felt terribly cooped up on this ship and welcomed the chance to move about.  I wonder how long Obi-Wan had to practice Force stuff until he could do a headstand like that?  Or maybe he just has really, super, strong fingers?  Nimbly, he turned on his heel and repeated his walking exercise.  This is easy.  I could even... what is that eerie feeling?  Anakin's mind whirled in distress.  The very air seemed to prickle his skin.

**thump!**

Anakin barely caught himself from breaking his nose on the floor.  He bolted to his feet and clamored back on the boxes.  He could feel his face burn in embarrassment.  I'm glad Padmé isn't in here.  That was so bizarre.  It felt like... he frowned.

I don't know what it felt like.


Chapter 5

The next day, the Jedi left Anakin in the storage room to meditate alone.  Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan returned to their cabin for a long overdue discussion.

I have a bad feeling about this.  Obi-Wan suspected that his Master didn't share his feeling of concern.

"I intend to ask the Council to test Anakin Skywalker and train him," Qui-Gon stated.

Sometimes I hate to be right, his apprentice thought gloomily.

"Master, I agree that the boy's potential is great, however..." he left his sentence unfinished.  Obi-Wan studied his Master.  Why does he persistently chase after hopeless causes?  It was a familiar question that he had asked himself many times.  The Council would never accept the boy for training.  They staunchly adhered to the rules and the rules clearly stated that to begin Jedi training after one year of age was dangerous and certain to fail.  At nine years of age, it was much too late for Anakin.

"I understand what you mean.  Anakin is too old," Qui-Gon answered.  "However, there has been exceptions before.  Master Eeth Koth was already four years of age when he was discovered and yet he was trained.  Today he is even a member of the Council."

"Master, he proved..."

"Yes, he did," Qui-Gon interrupted.  "And I hope that Anakin will demonstrate his worthiness also."  He decided to let Obi-Wan's nearly disrespectful tone slide.  His apprentice had a right to have his own point of view.  Qui-Gon was glad that Obi-Wan never followed him blindly.

Obi-Wan sighed.  Qui-Gon would be Qui-Gon and nothing is going change him.  Would I really want him any different? he thought.  He banished all unkind thoughts from his mind and as usual looked past his Master's eccentricities.

"You are testing the boy again?" he inquired, changing the subject.

"Yes, Padawan" his Master replied.  "A test of obedience."

**********

With his eyes closed he imagined he could see the storage room he was in and attempted to do the same with the room above.  Anakin was elated and desperately tried to refrain from jumping up.  I can feel the people on the upper deck!  Who are they?  Slowly, he tried to count them.  I wish it wasn't so cold in here, he thought and briefly lost his concentration.

Come on! he sighed in frustration.  Work!  I want to be able to tell Qui-Gon how many people I sensed.

A tingling sensation crept over him.  It danced across his skin and ruffled his tousled blond hair.  For a moment Anakin felt like he was home on Tatooine.  He almost didn't notice the sudden warmth that surrounded him.

It's like when Mom hugs me, he sighed contentedly and relaxed further into the Force.  Suddenly a vibration in the air attracted him.  Focusing on it, he tried to determine what was happening.  I'm sweating, he noticed as an afterthought.  The heat began to increase rapidly and Anakin's fear swelled to equal it.

He began to pant heavily.  Why is it so hot!? he nearly cried in alarm.

Opening his eyes he was shocked to see what appeared to be a soft glow clinging to his body and shining through his tunic and pants.  Instantly, his concentration shattered and he was relieved to see the light vanish along with the heat.  Anakin's small frame shivered as cooler air dried the sweat on his brow.

Calm down, gotta calm down, he thought furiously.  I don't think that was supposed to happen.  I've got to calm down before Master Qui-Gon returns!

**********

Qui-Gon entered the room with a smile on his face.  He was pleased to see Anakin still meditating and sensed that the boy had obeyed his instructions to not move while he was gone.

"Its time to eat, Ani," he said.

As he turned to walk back down the passage, Anakin followed in silence.  Should I tell him?

"I sense that you are distressed, Ani," Qui-Gon said earnestly.  "Can I help?"

"Do Jedi do impossible things?" Anakin asked.

"Nothing is impossible when the Force is your ally," Master Qui-Gon explained.  "It is we who have limits."

"Oh," was Anakin's only comment as he turned to walk down the passage.

**********

The next morning Anakin went in search of the Jedi apprentice.

"Hi, Obi-Wan!" Anakin exclaimed in greeting.

"Hello."  Obi-Wan did not look up.  I thought the boy was with Qui-Gon? he thought.

"What are you doing?" the boy inquired.

"Mending my tunic," Obi-Wan responded curtly.  Couldn't he guess?  Or is he just trying to start a conversation?

Silence filled the room as Anakin thought of what to say next.  Obi-Wan ignored the sound of the boy start to nervously tap his foot on the floor.  I think he'd pace if there was room.

"What stuff can Jedi do?"  Obi-Wan had anticipated that Anakin would want to know this.  However, I had expected the boy to ask Qui-Gon, not I.

"We do the will of the Force," he evaded.  This might be fun, he thought.

But Anakin wouldn't be deterred.  "Noooo,  I mean do things!  Like that neat hand-stand, or I guess it would be called a finger-stand, that you did."

"Yes, excellent balance is a Jedi trait."

Anakin sighed in frustration and pressed on.  "How high can you jump?"

"High," Obi-Wan replied.  Oh, I shouldn't be doing this.  He will get angry, but its so much fun!

Anakin glared at him.  "I've heard pilots say that Jedi can read minds."

"It's good to know your ears function."

Anakin made a strangling sound and stared at him.

Obi-Wan struggled not to smile while he waited for the boy's response.  This kid is so easy to tease!  But then he sensed Anakin's anger subside.  Good, more amusement for me!

"Can Jedi read minds?" he asked carefully.

"Not in the way you mean."

"Can you tell me what I am thinking?"

"No."

"No you can't or no you won't?" Anakin insisted.

"I am not hearing your thoughts."

"Could you just tell me what Jedi things you can do?" Anakin said through gritted teeth.

"Perhaps."  Obi-Wan couldn't help but smirk this time.

"Please," the boy begged.

Maybe I should put him out of his misery.  "Most Jedi can use the Force to run extremely fast and then not feel tired afterward.  Many can lift very heavy objects and jump three times more or higher than is normal for their race.  Some of us can heal wounds on others and ourselves.  And we can levitate objects."  Anakin's going to love that part.  What shall I use to demonstrate?  Perhaps if I lift him...no he would probably panic.

"Could you show me, please?"

"Of course," Obi-Wan replied graciously. This kid's not quite as annoying I thought he would be.  "What would you like me to levitate?"

"Well, uh, how about that datapad."  He pointed to it lying on the table.

Obi-Wan complied and the datapad rose smoothly off the table and hung in midair.  He smiled as Anakin was properly amazed.  The boy waved his hands under, above and around it.  Anakin then grasped the datapad firmly and tugged.  It didn't move a bit.

"When did you learn to do that?" he asked.

"When I was younger than you."

"Wizard!" Anakin praised.  "What about," he hesitated, "what about making something...um...glow?"

"Glow?" Obi-Wan mused.  "Well, I don't know why a Jedi would need to make something glow.  Most Jedi can use the Force to see in the dark."

"Oh, well thank you very much for talking to me Obi-Wan!" Anakin said in a rush and ran out the door.

Odd kid, Obi-Wan noted.  I should be kinder to him.  After all, we will arrive on Coruscant tomorrow, he thought sadly.  For a moment he recalled his conversation with Qui-Gon.  Showing him Force powers was a bad idea.

He will be even more disappointed now.


Chapter 6

Twelve of the galaxy's most powerful beings surrounded Anakin Skywalker.  Qui-Gon Jinn had escorted him into the Jedi Council Chamber and left.  The small boy was nervous and uncertain what was expected of him.  No one introduced themselves to him nor offered him any words of welcome.  The eyes of the Jedi were not trained on him, but in him.  They didn't bother to set him at ease.  Instead, the questions began.

**********

Qui-Gon sank into a soft chair in his and Obi-Wan's quarters.  "Try to relax, Padawan," he called out softly.  "We may not get another chance for some time."

Obi-Wan rooted through the kitchen stores in search of a snack and hopefully, some peace of mind.  The young Jedi was distressed and worried for his Master.  He was certain that the boy would not be trained.  The subtle reactions of the Council members implied that.   And they showed no sign of believing this boy was the Chosen One.  Even if that old prophecy was true, which he doubted, it didn't mean it was Anakin.  Obi-Wan returned to the main room with a heavy heart.  This will be hard on Qui-Gon.  I wish I could spare him the pain and disappointment.  What will my Master do when they deny the boy training?

**********

The Council paused their questioning to take a blood sample.  When Anakin asked why, Yoda mentioned it was for counting midi-chlorians, but refused to elaborate.  Anakin was grateful for a chance to rest, no matter how short.

Mace Windu took out a datascreen.  "Tell us what images appear on this," he instructed.  Anakin looked at it intently at first and briefly wondered when the Jedi Master would turn it around to face him.  But then he understood they were expecting him to just know.  To use the Force that Qui-Gon had told him about.

Dozens of pictures began to flash in his mind and he named each in turn.  "A bantha.  A hyperdrive.  A proton blaster," he had a lightheaded and rushed feeling that reminded him of the podrace.  "A Republic cruiser.  A cup.  A speeder."

Master Windu turned the screen off and glanced at the boy before looking at the other Jedi.

"Good, good, young one," Master Yoda praised him, and noted that the boy didn't respond with any pride.  "How feel you?"

"Cold, sir," Anakin confessed.

Now was the time for the most difficult test.  One that they had been, at first, reluctant to put a boy through.  Yarael Poof, master of Jedi mind tricks, began to project Force images of the boy's worst fears.  His long neck swayed slightly with the effort.

"Afraid are you?" Yoda inquired gauging his reaction.

The boy stiffened and stood straighter.  "No, sir."

"Afraid to give up your life?" Master Windu asked, leaning forward slightly.

"I don't think so," Anakin began, but he felt unsure of his answer.

Yoda's eyelids drooped.  "See through you we can," he said quietly.

"Be mindful of your feelings," Mace Windu added.

Ki-Adi Mundi stroked his beard.  "Your thoughts dwell on your mother."

Anakin felt his stomach churn.  "I miss her," he insisted.

Yoda exchanged glances with several others of the Council, in particular, Master Poof who was seated behind Anakin.

"Afraid to lose her I think," Yoda murmured.

Anakin flushed.  "What's that got to do with anything?" he demanded.

"Everything.  Fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate, hate --" he paused "-- leads to suffering," he spoke woefully.

"I sense much fear in you."

"I am not afraid!" the boy snapped.

Yoda ignored him.  "The deepest commitment, a Jedi must have.  The most serious mind."  He looked again to Master Poof.  This Force technique was Yarael Poof's most valuable asset in battle because it completely immobilized his opponents without harming them.  He was quietly astonished that Anakin remained coherent and on his feet.

"I am not afraid," Anakin repeated, calmer this time.

"Then continue, we will," Yoda responded with a measuring look.

Unbeknown to Anakin Skywalker, the Jedi Council members each cast their votes and opinions.

Mace Windu was the leading member of the Jedi Council and was living proof that wisdom and experience does not always require great age.  He gave his choice first.

I have sensed danger surrounding this boy, he sent to the others telepathically.  I submit that he should not be trained.  I would prefer more time to evaluate him, but I cannot foresee whether or not it would alter my vote.

Yoda was the oldest member of the Jedi Council and was well into his 800s.  He had traveled to hundreds of worlds in his endeavor to learn and comprehend the complexities of the Force.  Yet, he had never seen anything like the child Master Qui-gon had brought to the temple.  The great Jedi Master's wisdom and experience was greatly valued by the rest of the council.  His advice of prudent contemplation rather than hasty action had served the Jedi well many times.  Choose no, I too.  Far too clouded, his future his.

A Zabrak Jedi Master, Eeth Koth was famous throughout the temple for his great willpower and ability to withstand intense pain.  He was discovered to have force potential at age four.  He was at first considered too old to be trained, but he managed to prove himself worthy.  I sympathize with Anakin's desire to be a Jedi and determination to somehow prove he can.  Yes, I would like to see him trained.

Fierce Lannik warrior Even Piell was a Jedi Master greatly revered for his mighty combat skills despite that fact that he is little more than one meter tall.  I agree that Anakin should be trained.  His courage to come before us alone has earned my admiration.

Knight Ki-Adi-Mundi was the only member of the Council who hadn't earned the rank of Master.  He glanced at his former Master, Yoda, before giving his answer.  I have traveled to Tatooine before and feel that this boy's experience as a slave there would greatly hinder any Jedi training.  I vote no.

Oppo Rancisis was a master of military tactics and warfare and was once Jedi Master Yaddle's Padawan.  The Republic relied on his cunning strategies and battle plans when peaceful negotiations failed.  He peered out from under his long hair at the others.  Skywalker would be a terrible and vicious enemy if he ever fell to the Darkside.  Training him is not worth the risk.

Jedi Master Plo Koon was also a trusted ally of the Republic's military.  His friendship and respect for Qui-Gon Jinn inclined him to accept the boy.  He wished fervently that his friend had considered filling one of the Council's short-term positions.  He looked at Anakin through his special protective goggles before answering. I cannot agree with Master Rancisis.  Only with training would Skywalker have the chance to resist the peril of the Darkside.  I choose yes.

Jedi Master Saesee Tiin was born with natural telepathic abilities and an exceptionally strong link to the Force.  He had examined Anakin's thoughts at length throughout the session.  He turned his red and blue head to face the boy.  His thoughts were jumbled and often incoherent. However, what I did see leads me to decide he should not be trained.

Master Adi Gallia served the Republic as one of the Supreme Chancellor's best intelligence sources.  She understood the Republic's complex political system and acted as the council's liaison with the government.  Her lovely eyes narrowed as she gave her answer.  He must not be taught.  There are too many possible ramifications should he betray us.

Yarael Poof was a master of Jedi mind tricks.  Humans tended to stare at Quermians' long necks.  However, Anakin had displayed no such reaction.  During the questioning he tested Anakin by using a Force technique to conjure up images of the boy's worst fears.  As you know, I have seen my enemies in battle completely subdued with my Force images.  I am very impressed with Anakin's strength to tolerate and overcome them.  I say yes.

The newest addition to the Jedi Council was Depa Billaba.  This Jedi Master was very sensitive to the thoughts of the rest of the Council.  She possessed extraordinary discipline and affinity for understanding people.  She knew how deeply this child would be crushed if denied training.  I must say no training.  His desires for training are not that of a Jedi, despite his wish to free his mother.

Yaddle was the most compassionate and patient member of the Council.  She was young for her species, only 477 years old.  As the debate progressed she listened silently to all of the arguments before adding her own concise and sage opinion.  Strong he is, learn he should.

Mace Windu sat back in his chair.  Five for, seven against.  Anakin Skywalker will not be trained as a Jedi.


Chapter 7

The journey from the Council chambers was just as bad as the argument that had occurred inside.

"You are planning to disobey the Council again, aren't you?" Obi-Wan declared as they walked to Queen Amidala's ship.

"Obi-Wan..." his Master began in warning.

But Obi-Wan didn't listen.  "You are going to start teaching him the moment we leave Coruscant!" he accused.

"Padawan!" Master Qui-Gon exclaimed.  "You will cease your disrespectful behavior."

"It's not disrespect, Master!" Obi-Wan retorted vehemently.  "It's the truth!"

"From your point of view, perhaps."  Qui-Gon was face was taut with controlled anger.

"The boy is dangerous.  They all sense it.  Why can't you?" Obi-Wan retorted boldly, heedless of the consequences.

"His fate is uncertain, but he is not dangerous," Master Qui-Gon declared.  "The Council will decide Anakin's future.  That should be enough for you."

**********

A day later, Obi-Wan's accusations still stung.  Qui-Gon winced as he remembered Master Yoda's words about the boy to him before they left.  "Take him with you, but train him not!"

No, I won't train him.  However, that won't stop Anakin from learning by observation.

"Ani, I am going to show you Force techniques," he said.  "Watch carefully."  He demonstrated by levitating several objects he had spread out on the table.  "Choose one that you feel the Force prompting you to lift."

Anakin focused on them intently.  "The box," he said.

He is uncertain, yet he has chosen the middle object.  Not the largest, not the smallest, nor the heaviest or lightest.  Good, he is neither under confidant nor cocky.

"I cannot instruct you how to do it," Qui-Gon said sadly.  "So, I am going to lift the box slowly several times.  Observe."

After the seventh time, Anakin asked to try it.  Anakin took the small box and held it cupped in his hands.  He closed his eyes and concentrated.

Qui-Gon watched with a smile as the box rose shakily a centimeter into the air and immediately fell again.

"Very good, Ani," he praised.  "I would like you to practice this while we travel, but let no one see you," he warned.

"Yes, sir."

"Now, we shall meditate."

Sadly, Qui-Gon searched for guidance from the Force.  He and Obi-Wan had not spoken to each other during their journey back to Naboo.  His Padawan had taken to sleeping and eating with the crew that manned the ship during the "night" shift.  He and Qui-Gon avoided one another as entirely as possible.  How will I repair this rift with Obi-Wan?  I've wounded him very deeply.  Perhaps he needs this time to heal.  It's his way.  If I intrude now it would be a disaster.

Things have gone from bad to worse with no sign of an end.  With a heavy heart he looked across at Anakin.  The boy was unsuccessfully attempting to meditate, but Qui-Gon did nothing to help him.

There must be some way to convince the Council to reconsider!

Anakin glowed.

Qui-Gon inhaled sharply as he felt the Force surge madly around the boy.  He opened his eyes and stared with rapt attention.  Carefully, not wishing to disturb Anakin, he tried to determine why the Force seemed to barrage the boy.  Anakin's face was serene and his entire body shone as if a lamp of fire had been turned on inside of him.  The light flickered and jumped in bursts of gold and white across his skin and clothes.

He is the Chosen One.

Suddenly, a wave of panic rose in the boy.  His eyes flew open and the light went out.  "Be calm, Ani," Qui-Gon reassured the shaking boy.  Anakin stared at him with wide eyes.

"I wasn't supposed to do that, was I?" he asked as a statement.

"No, it's alright," Qui-Gon answered.  "Has this happened before?"

"Uh, yes," the boy stammered.  "While we were flying to Coruscant."

"Has it ever before that?"

"No, I..." Anakin was uncertain.  Had he glowed before?  Images flashed through his mind.  Forgotten memories of his mother's frightened face came to him.  "I think it might, but I don't remember.  What...what is it?"

"You opened yourself to the Force, just as I instructed you to," he began.  "The only way I can explain this is when the Force filled you, it overflowed."  How has he learned to gather power like this? he wondered.

"It hurt last time."

"How so?"

"It felt like my skin was on fire."

"What were you thinking of when you were meditating that time?"

"Well," Anakin searched his memory.  "About the people on the ship and I think Padmé and you and that it was cold."

"There it is," Qui-Gon deduced.  "You disliked the cold and used the Force to warm yourself."  But it obviously got out of hand.

"Did it hurt this time?" Qui-Gon asked.  He hadn't sensed any heat.

"Not exactly, it felt like I was burning inside today."

Qui-Gon did not answer him.  This is the danger that the Council and Obi-Wan sensed.  The boy has no control.  If he is not trained soon I foresee he will imperil himself and all those around him.


Chapter 8

In the swamps of Naboo, the Jedi, the Queen and her guards waited for Jar Jar's return from Otoh Gunga.  Padmé walked over to Anakin.  "How are you, Ani?" she asked.

"Okay."  Blue eyes looked up at her mournfully.  "I missed you."  He shuffled his feet in the dirt.

"I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to talk to you for the past few days." she answered.  "I have been very busy on the ship."

"I need to tell you that..." he hesitated and stared at the ground.  "They decided not to make me a Jedi."

He told her about the Jedi Council testing him and how Qui-Gon had been showing him Force techniques.  "But the worst is that Master Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan are mad at each other and I know it's my fault."

"I'm sorry, Ani," Padmé said sadly.  "Don't give up hope.  The Council might change their minds.  And don't blame yourself about the Jedi," she comforted.  "I'm sure that they will work things out."

**********

Obi-Wan wanted to bash his head into a tree.  There were several suitable ones conveniently nearby.  It would be much easier than apologizing to Qui-Gon.  It still hurt terribly that the Jedi Master had dismissed him so abruptly in favor of the boy.  Even though he knew that it wasn't an intentional insult.  And worse, I've opposed my Master when I should have been supporting him.  I've not even tried to understand his reasons.

"Master," Obi-Wan said and turned to face Qui-Gon.  "I behaved badly on Coruscant, and I am embarrassed.  I meant no disrespect to you.  I do not wish to be difficult in the matter of the boy.  And I am grateful that you think I am ready to pass the Trials."

"Nor have you been," his Master replied kindly.  "You have been honest with me and honesty is never wrong."  He smiled faintly.  "I am very sorry for seeming to slight you in front of the Council.  I did not lie when I told the Council you were ready.  You are.  I have taught you all I can."

Obi-Wan beamed at his Master's praise.

"In fact, I've a confession to make," Qui-Gon began.  "I've felt that you we're ready since our mission to Altv."

Obi-Wan looked at him in shock.  "But to take the Trials then would have been so early --"

"I know," Qui-Gon interrupted.  "But I must apologize for I not telling you.  I simply did not want to part with your company so soon.  Can you forgive me?"

"Of course, Master."

"I foresee you will be a great Jedi and a wiser man than I."  They smiled as the rift between them healed as if it had never been and all of the pain was forgotten.

"I feel that the boy is worried."  Obi-Wan looked over at Anakin who was with a handmaiden.

"Yes," Qui-Gon observed.  "Everything has been very hard for him.  Perhaps she can set his mind at ease."

"Master, I have been sensing something odd about that handmaiden," Obi-Wan stated.  "I did not speak of it before, but now the feeling has increased."

"You are right Obi-Wan," his Master replied.  "Search carefully and feel the Force signatures around the Queen and each of her handmaidens."

Obi-Wan did as instructed and barely suppressed a laugh.  He looked at Qui-Gon with a grin.  "Clever trick," he said in amusement.  "And Anakin has no idea who he is talking to!"

Anakin glanced over at the Jedi.  To his surprise, they were talking and smiling again.  It made him feel much better about the battle to come to know that everything was all right with the Jedi.

**********

In the Theed Power Station, Obi-Wan rushed to his wounded Master's side.  I can't heal a wound this bad,
Obi-Wan thought in despair.

"Don't speak, Master." Obi-Wan insisted.