Author Topic: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama - 850 BBY) - Last tidbit and a goodbye...
VaderLVR64  31365 posts
Title: Manager Emeritus
Registered: Feb '04
48874_Anakin Vader (71809)
Date Posted: 9/6/06 4:09am Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 5: Letter of Intent 9/5
Yet another incredible chapter! You certainly have a way of weaving a spell with your words.

Touching the Living Force and wrapping it around her like a blanket, Learza was always happiest when she was able to let her senses free. The pulse of life thrummed in her very cells, tempting her to follow its call. Soft breezes joined her in play and she raced them across the grassy plain. Appearing from its hutch, a lagobun began to run and Learza chased it for a moment until it disappeared down a hole a few yards away. Rolling in the tall grass, the stalks scratching the itches on her back, she soaked in the warm rays of the sun before leaping up to run with the wind once more.

Absolutely gorgeous passage! applause

 

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correllian_ale  3601 posts
Title: Manager Emeritus
Registered: Jun '05
Date Posted: 9/9/06 3:49pm Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 5: Letter of Intent 9/5
Wonderful Chapter J_L!

Far too many beings looked upon the pair as an example of the incompetence of the Order, using them as proof that the Jedi should be shunted to the side while the Republic rebuilt from within. Struggling to maintain a show of confidence for his Padawan's sake, it was then that Elys most questioned the usefulness of the Jedi in the service of the Republic and his own place within the Order.

This is such a common theme in both profic and fanfic (myself included), it touches such a revelant dilema, especially when considering Jedi...at what point does one STOP sacrificing their conscience in favor policy. Is doing what your told more important than doing what is right?

Sorry, Loki just pushed me off my soapbox.


The diary of Aedan Kapradina has been forcibly stolen from our possession. We safeguarded it to best of our abilities and one of our number is now at one with the Force in its defense. The information that book contains has been unleashed upon the galaxy once again. As the Jedi High Council well knows, this could be the final key that would lead to the resurrection of those whom your Order so recently sent into defeat.

The burden has been removed from our possession and it is up to you to do with this information as you will. The Shimura have completed their final task on behalf of the Wandering Brethren and until the time you return to the true path of Ka and the way of the Code, we shall speak no more.

Pass this vital information on to the Wise One called Grannie Hella. Her last known residence was somewhere near your Jedi Temple on Coruscant. Take heart and find her, for she is well versed in such matters and will know what to do.


So, you've thrust us into a bit of a mystery... anxiously awaiting to see where this is going.

Will the council so easily dismiss them of being capable of an investigation? Again, can't wait to see...so much speculation!

Bravo!

applause applause applause

 

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Kestrel_Kenobi  1604 posts
Registered: Sep '05
24217_Obi-Wan
Date Posted: 9/11/06 4:29pm Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 5: Letter of Intent 9/5
JL - Just to let you know I've read this and love it...I'm so tired, trying to catch up with everything...I will return tomorrow to write something that makes sense! hugs

 

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Jennifer_Lyn  2185 posts
Registered: Jun '05
44088_Obi-Wan Kenobi
Date Posted: 9/12/06 8:12am Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 5: Letter of Intent 9/5
Nienna: laugh yes, the Sith are rising. scary, isn't it? Elys does feel a bit lonely at times, he's got a rough road, though some of it is not by choice. the Force works within his life more deeply than he realizes.

SQ: *watches SQ bounce* so glad you're enjoying this! you have no idea how much it thrills me that you've fallen for Elys and Learza. yes, when those people found out their flight had been moved because of a Jedi, they were pretty ticked off.

Luna: yippee! she's attached! my evil plot is working! yeah, the Shimura are a bit insular for my tastes as well, and apparently Elys's too. your Elys and your Learza? *sigh* i'm honored that you think of them like that, truly.

VL: thank you so much! that was a fun passage to write with Learza leading the way. she's truly a joy to work with and has such a unique presence in my brain. i'm glad to know that she comes across well.

c_ale: you can stay on that soapbox if you like. it think that you've hit on one of the major themes that keeps me writing fanfic. to me, the events in the GFFA are largely based on the decisions of the Jedi and their choice to remain loyal to the Order and the Republic, come hell or high water. as for the mystery, the next chapter will answer some of your questions, and hopefully create a few new ones.

Kes: thanks for taking the time, hon! i know you're wiped out. hugs

 

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Forever in search of the perfect Obi-Wan quote but it remains something... elsewhere. Elusive.
OC revolutionaries never die, they just go into hiding.
A Stirring in the Bones - http://boards.theforce.net/b/b1/24526219/p5 - completed ages ago
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Jennifer_Lyn  2185 posts
Registered: Jun '05
44088_Obi-Wan Kenobi
Date Posted: 9/12/06 8:24am Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 5: Letter of Intent 9/5


Chapter 6: No Place Like Home

Jedi Temple District, Coruscant, Core Worlds

Sitting aboard the shuttlecraft, Elys watched the sun, creep towards the horizon, shining with a dim light onto the city below. Snow encrusted every horizontal surface and the tops of many of the spacescraping buildings disappeared into the scattered clouds above. With half of the orbital mirrors out of rotation for their annual cleaning, the entire planet was left frozen under winter’s thrall.

Learza stood on her seat when the ziggurat outline of the Jedi Temple came into view, craning her neck to look out the front viewport and wagging her tail hard in anticipation. After months of travel, home was within sight, bringing a comfort that pushed aside some of the icy thoughts recent events brought to her mind. Her enthusiasm garnered a few chuckles from her fellow Jedi aboard the shuttle, many commenting that they agreed with her sentiments completely.

Setting down among many other craft in front of the gargantuan structure, their shuttle opened its doors, releasing its cargo of Knights, Masters and Padawans into the cold. Elys stopped for a moment outside the craft, wrapping his cloak around him to ward off the chill as he looked up. A passing cloud hid the spires of the Temple, but some of the upper floors could still be seen. Construction had begun on an upper landing platform that would allow access to the Council's chambers and some of the other administrative offices of the Order. Meant to relieve visitors from the burden of traveling through the labyrinthine halls of the Temple, it was rumored that the structure's true purpose was more covert. Insisted upon by the Senate, the platform opened up a vulnerability in the Temples's defenses that gave the populace a sense of security. It was one of many sacrifices the Order allowed to occur as they rebuilt the trust of the Senate.

With his fellow passengers already making their way into the Temple, Elys took a deep breath and let go of the small knot of anxiety settling in his chest. Yes, this was home, the best he had found thus far, but he found he was often more restless here than when on a mission. Still, while never as relaxed as he wished, at least here he could follow the threads of the Force with greater ease. Tapping into the well of energy upon which the foundations of the Temple sat, Elys knew from experience that even the least talented youngling could access the Force with ease here. He was a Jedi, fully trained and capable, yet the knowledge that his midichlorian count was one of the lowest in the Order always left him feeling a bit inadequate to the tasks set before him. Even the reassurance brought by the powerful Master that chose him as her Padawan brought little comfort when he was faced with the assembled spectrum of talent within the edifice sitting before him.

Sensing the disturbance in his reverie Learza leaned against him, her attempt to comfort his unspoken concern bringing him back to the present. Releasing the dark thoughts and fears into the Force, Elys reached into the well of peaceful energy he found within their bond and smiled at his apprentice.

'Well, we're home, Padawan.' He placed a hand on her soft head, resting it there as she turned to nuzzle it with her nose.

'Yes, Master. It will be nice to sleep someplace quiet tonight.'

He chuckled. 'That's right. No more rumbling engines to disturb you for a little while.'

Climbing the stone steps, they passed by the towering statues guarding the entrance. These representations of great deeds done by Jedi of the past were meant to serve as inspiration to the Jedi of the present. Somehow, Elys always felt that these sentinels looked down upon him, searching out his weaknesses that one day they would slam the doors shut in his face instead of welcoming him with open arms.

Learza urged him forward, anxious to get inside and see what had changed since their last departure. Nodding their greetings to Knights passing them on the way, the duo walked through the arching doorway and into the cavernous entrance hall of the Temple. Once inside the deep blue carpeting, unchanging in its solidity, was a reinforcing signal of home for both of them. Learza walked ahead of her Master, sniffing the ground in front of her, soaking in the familiar smells.

Elys looked around, searching for friendly faces and recognized only one of the many beings moving through the vast space. He was a powerful knight, well known to all. The bright, shining star of the Order, Anos Nelray. Kind and giving, he was the best the Order had to offer, and his presence only served to increase Elys' selfconsciousness. The slight tightness that reignited in his chest at the sight of the Knights gathered around Anos was loosened when he found a petite, female Togruta approaching him. She smiled at him, a warm glint in her eye, her sharp teeth intimidating to those who did not know her well.

"Knight Ki Dul, greetings." Bowing her head, she looked down at Learza.

"Master Tan, it is good to see you." Elys straightened his posture a little. "This is Learza, my Padawan."

The Master was flummoxed for a moment, unsure how to greet the canid. Learza took point, as she often did in such situations, and bowed her head, sending a small nudge of peace through the Force to the Master, who's smile brightened upon receiving it and sent a nudge in return.

"Padawan Learza. It is a true pleasure to meet the Padawan of my own apprentice." Kneeling down, she met Learza's eyes and the Padawan approached her, nudging her outstretched hand. Elys was unsure, but for a moment, the two females seemed to exchange something between them, some bond was formed then that he could not quite grasp.

"How are you, Master?" he asked as she stood back up.

"Oh I am just fine. I am considering another Padawan, myself, actually." She replied with a knowing smile before turning to the young Padawan at her feet, looking directly at her as she continued. "Learza, would you be so kind as to excuse us for a few moments?"

Learza nudged Elys, unwilling to leave his side. 'Master?'

'It's alright, Learza, we just need to speak for a few moments. All is well between us, do not worry.' he responded with a wave of comforting energy.

'Yes, Master.' she replied before turning to explore the far side of the cavernous room.

Once she was gone, Master Tan focused her attention on her former apprentice, giving him a quick once over of his physical condition before probing into his emotional status.

"And how is it with my woebegone apprentice?" She asked, sincere concern in her voice. "I am sorry I was out of touch when you accepted Learza as your Padawan. I would have liked to meet her before this."

"I am well, Master. Learza is a joy to train, so intelligent and such an amazing connection to the Living Force she has, it far outstrips my own." he smiled, watching as his Padawan disappeared behind a tall pillar, her excitement at some new discovery flickering through their bond.

"Hmm. Yes, I sense the depth of your connection. Still, it is most unusual and I wonder if this does not further alienate you from other beings, myself included?" she pressed him to elaborate, sure he would remain as reticent as ever, but hopeful that taking a Padawan had loosened him up a little.

Elys shrugged his shoulders. "It may be so, Master, but I follow the will of the Force. None of us are on an easy path and I hold to the hope that I may yet find the purpose for my inner discontent."

Memories of long meditation sessions and even longer discussions flickered through his Master's mind as they spoke. Always willing to talk about any problems her Padawan was facing, Hepsi Tan was a kind Master who did her best to keep the often moody, young Elys on track. Soon after their bonding, she found that the youngster in her care responded much better to encouragement than hard discipline. At times wondering if she did him a disservice by not toughening him up better, he still flourished considerably well under her tutelage and when the time came she had no reservations in submitting him to his Trials.

They stood talking for a few more minutes before Elys begged her pardon and glanced at his chrono. "If you will excuse me, Master, I have to meet with the Council on some urgent news."

She squeezed his arm. "Yes, of course." She held his gaze for a moment, searching for some elusive signal. "Elys, Padawan, you know if ever you wish, you may still come and speak with me."

"Thank you, Master. I may yet someday have need." Bowing his head to her, she returned the gesture, then departed.

'Learza?' he sent the query through the Force. 'Padawan?'

'Coming, Master!' came the reply and once she was by his side they began making their way up the grand stairs leading to a bank of turbolifts that would take them to the upper floors of the Temple.

Many stops later, at times crushed to the back of the tight space as Jedi boarded and departed from the lift, they arrived outside of the Council chamber. After checking in with the Knight acting as receptionist that day, they passed the reply from the Premier of Dantooine to another of the Jedi couriers who would deliver it to the Senate. The main focus of their primary mission complete, they took a seat on the cushioned bench along the far wall of the reception area.

Their wait passed in no time at all, the Council having a full docket that day and keeping as close to their tight schedule as possible. Before long the towering wooden doors opened and a few Knights departed, whispering to each other as Elys and Learza were escorted inside.

The transparisteel windows let in the late afternoon light, the wintry sun gleaming off the great spires in the distance as well as the ceaseless lines of air traffic close by. The eyes of all the Masters were upon Elys as he stepped forward, the attention causing his chest to tighten before a slow breath allowed him to release this fear into the Force and speak.

"Greetings, Masters." Elys opened the dialogue.

Learza sent a small wave of pleasant Force energy out to the gathered Council and both received their greetings returned in kind.

"We understand you have most urgent news for us. As you are arriving from Dantooine, we cannot imagine what could be so important." Master Terak Havna, the most senior member of the Council, addressed them.

"Here, your graces." Elys produced the scroll from a pocket on Learza's vest.

One of the Masters read the letter out to the others. While she did so, Elys fiddled with a small loose thread along his cuff. Sensing Learza watching his fingers instead of keeping her attention on the proceedings, he stopped the action and guided her focus back to the Council. When the letter was finished Master Havna nodded to the other members and spoke.

“I am sure I can speak for the rest of the Council here. I understand your worry at receiving this information, Elys. It is a disturbing development. Unfortunately, it is but a seed of a rumor and there is little we can do about it except monitor the situation.”

Thoughts fluttered through Elys' mind. This was a threat of the return of the Sith, did they mean to do nothing? Surprised confusion evident in his voice, he told them, “I’m not sure I understand, Masters.”

Master Frashnaka, a Shistavanen with silvery grey hairs beginning to show among his otherwise dark fur, explained, “Well, as you know, the Jedi Order is in a precarious position within the Galactic community. Many would like to see us removed from any dealings with the Republic and some would prefer to see us disbanded entirely. To bring up a possible threat of a Sith resurrection now would make us appear as warmongers and rabble rousers, playing on the fears of the populace in order to regain power. This would only serve to aid those who wish to see us completely annihilated.”

“So we will do nothing?” The thought of ignoring the dangerous information he had just presented to them still did not make sense in Elys' mind. The Council was rarely wrong in such matters, doing their best to protect the Order and the Republic, but there was a nagging feeling within his heart that something here was very wrong.

“Had you heard of the Kapradina Diary before receiving this information? “ Master Havna questioned him, his tone taking on a hint of condescension that set Elys's doubts swirling once again.

“No, I had not.” he admitted, wishing now he had taken the time to research the matter in the Archives.

Master Havna nodded and continued his explanation. “It is a small collection of apocryphal Sith knowledge, supposedly holding some information that could lead to the raising of the dead. As we all know this task is impossible and the information in that diary, while potential dangerous from a political standpoint, poses little true threat.”

A slight flush of blood rising to his face, Elys asked his next question, dreading the answer though he expected its outcome. “And what of this Grannie Hella?”

Master Havna shook his head in a subtle motion. Elys was unsure if the disappointment was directed at him or not, but took it as an admonishment just the same. “She is a fable, young one. Supposedly a being of great power. But the idea of a mythological being taking up residence in the lower levels of Coruscant seems rather unlikely.”

“I see. I am sorry, Masters. I seem to have been played for a bit of a fool.” The loose thread in his cuff had become all the more interesting over the last few minutes and, hidden beneath his robe, he began to worry at it, testing its strength and measuring it against his fingers.

Realizing he had put the younger Master on edge, Kyda Havna attempted to correct the situation. “No, Elys. You did as you thought necessary and we will need to monitor the situation for any further developments. It is also sad, but important news that the Shimura have cut the final tie that kept us bound to each other. While we may disagree on ideology, they are still our brother Jedi and this rift is a sad wound upon our history.”

“Yes, Masters.” Knowing the revered Council member was trying to soften the blow did little to ease Elys' mind. At least he now had little to fear of a Sith resurrection. Resolving to do some research on the Order's lore while he was in residence, his mind was drawn back into the moment when Master Havna shifted the discussion to himself and Learza.

“Now then, as for you and your Padawan here.” The Master began.

An inner flicker of self doubt surfaced again in Elys' heart. While the Master's tone betrayed no reprimand, still he had no thought as to what the other's next words might be. Too often for his own comfort, Elys' imagination would run off with him and he would envision the Council separating him from his Padawan or expelling them both from the Order for some error and he wondered if this would be that time.

Reaching out for their bond, a strong source of comfort in such times, he found Learza's attention seemed to have wandered off, only now at the mention of her title was she bringing it back into focus. The lapse brought his own thoughts snapping back to the present as he felt the weight of his responsibility settle firmly on his shoulders once more. He was a Master with his own Padawan, a Jedi trained, not one to allow petty fears and insecurities get the better of his mind.

“Yes, Masters?” he replied, wrapping the Force around him once more and using it to ensure his voice held no temerity.

The senior Council member continued, a small grin of pride now surfacing on his face. “We are pleased with the work you have done for the Senate. There have been no complaints about either of your conduct and all packages arrived safely and securely at their destinations.”

Relief at last swept through Elys' mind. “Thank you. We do our best to represent the Order as both efficient and trustworthy.”

Master Frashnaka spoke now, agreeing with the sentiment, “And this you have done. Yet it has been more than half a year since you have returned to the Temple and a Jedi is not meant to be naught but a beast of burden for the Senate. There is training your Padawan has yet to complete and a Jedi needs to spend time reflecting upon their path within the Force.”

With a nod of understanding, Elys awaited what news the Master would present to him next. Were they to be assigned a more critical task? Learza was not yet ready to take on one of the more dangerous missions, her mind still too prone to distraction.

The Shistavanen continued, “As such, we have chosen to put you on sabbatical. When you deem you are prepared to return to duty, you will present yourself before us. Until then, may the Force be with you.”

A knot of nerves loosened at the back of Elys' neck. They would be able to rest and develop Learza's skills without interruption. It was a wonderful gift and it opened up a world of possibilities to them. “Thank you, your graces.”

Turning to leave, a thought popped into his head unbidden. Learza, sensing him struggling with a question, prodded at his mind.

'What are you thinking, Master?'


He shook her off, 'It is a minor thing, Padawan, do not trouble yourself. Come, let us go get something to eat and return to our quarters.'

 

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Forever in search of the perfect Obi-Wan quote but it remains something... elsewhere. Elusive.
OC revolutionaries never die, they just go into hiding.
A Stirring in the Bones - http://boards.theforce.net/b/b1/24526219/p5 - completed ages ago
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Kestrel_Kenobi  1604 posts
Registered: Sep '05
24217_Obi-Wan
Date Posted: 9/12/06 2:59pm Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 6: No Place Like Home 9/12
Hey JL! Yippee, first reply!

I loved both these chapters - Elys and Learza are such wonderful characters. I'm being drawn deeper and deeper into their relationship and their world. As always you are the master of little details and descriptions.

I have a bad feeling that things aren't going to be easy for the pair though...all this sith talk and the council dismissing it is making me nervous worried

 

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Lovely-in-Orange  832 posts
Registered: Apr '05
23587_Snowspeeder
Date Posted: 9/12/06 9:53pm Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 6: No Place Like Home 9/12
I'm really behind on my reading but I'm enjoying catching up! In chapter 4, I was starting to empathize with Asori and then you had such a dark twist. Dr. Kapradina clenched her fists, readying to strike him again. Preparing for the onslaught, the man dropped to his knees and bent his head in supplication. A thrill passed through her seeing this man in such a vulnerable position and she held back her hand. Reveling in her power over him, she began to rethink her threat to release him from her service. An idea passed through her mind that would resolve matters in her favor. Ah, it's so nice to have evil minions. devil Very interesting and creepy villianess. I liked Regi too.

Chapter 5: "Crazy Jedi, where'd he get that dog anyway. No right to be havin' animals, probably don't treat her right."

"Aww, they're playing tag. How sweet. So nice to see a young man with a dog. What? He's a Jedi? Oh, well, he seemed nice anyway. Guess you can't always judge by looks, can you?"
laugh Great chapter, Learza really is good for Elys and counters his being overly humble. happy And wow, the Shimura really do want as little to do with the Jedi as possible... I got the feeling that it was a major effort for them to write and deliver that little letter.

Bedtime calls, but I look forward to reading the next chapter you posted tommorrow!

 

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Luna_Nightshade  2984 posts
Registered: Jan '06
52494_Alton Brown Blaster
Date Posted: 9/12/06 10:31pm Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 6: No Place Like Home 9/12
Alas, I'm extremely tired so I hope this doesn't reflect in my reply...

Once again, Learza is a joy in this chapter.

I also enjoyed reading about Elys' insecurities and how his former Master dealt with them. I love their camaraderie, which is so different from our typical portrayal in the PT with Obi and Qui and then Obi and Anakin. It is very... old school, and I really enjoy it.

Ah, but the Council, irritating me as it always does. They simply can't ignore this. Of course, I have my PT vantage point, but still. I suppose I get their logic, yet with my "omnipotent audience," I just want to scream at them. Pay attention! Don't screw this up!

*sigh*

I am very, very happy that Learza and Elys get some good quality time together. I know I'll enjoy it thoroughly, since Learza just makes me grin all the time.

Much applause , JL. I wish I could be perkier, but I'm going to go crash into bed now. Know that I adored it and I absolutely can't wait to find out more of Learza's Big Adventure. (As I have henceforth dubbed this story.) wink

 

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stormqueen874  1570 posts
Registered: Aug '05
24121_Padme
Date Posted: 9/12/06 11:46pm Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 6: No Place Like Home 9/12
YAY! An update! *dances around* I wish I could've gotten to this sooner, but time is constrained this week, I'm afraid. *sighs sadly*

Anyway, lovely chapter! Man, I really want to hug Elys right now, just because I can sympathize with him so acutely. He's at a place that we all find ourselves over the course of our lives, and I know how hard it can be to have confidence in yourself. Poor guy! *does her best to huggle him, even those he's not real* tongue

The bit with Elys' master was interesting as well, and I have to say that I hope Elys decides to go hunting for Grannie Halla (I think that's how you spell her name... nope, apparently it's Hella. Well, three out of four letters, right?). And as for Learza, I hope she can help her master gain a little bit of confidence in himself! They're all such wonderful characters, J_L, and I just cain't wait to see what happens next. Here's to hoping you update again soon! (Though I'm noticing you update on Tuesdays... is that just my crazy brain finding patterns?)

-Stormqueen

 

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Shadows of the Future: TPM timetravel AU, Obi/Ani/Qui bonding
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VaderLVR64  31365 posts
Title: Manager Emeritus
Registered: Feb '04
48874_Anakin Vader (71809)
Date Posted: 9/13/06 7:52am Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 6: No Place Like Home 9/12
I really love these characters, and each post just makes me love them even more! grin

An inner flicker of self doubt surfaced again in Elys' heart. While the Master's tone betrayed no reprimand, still he had no thought as to what the other's next words might be. Too often for his own comfort, Elys' imagination would run off with him and he would envision the Council separating him from his Padawan or expelling them both from the Order for some error and he wondered if this would be that time.

Reaching out for their bond, a strong source of comfort in such times, he found Learza's attention seemed to have wandered off, only now at the mention of her title was she bringing it back into focus. The lapse brought his own thoughts snapping back to the present as he felt the weight of his responsibility settle firmly on his shoulders once more. He was a Master with his own Padawan, a Jedi trained, not one to allow petty fears and insecurities get the better of his mind.


I really liked this section. Beautifully done. applause

 

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Nienna_Narmolanya  1364 posts
Registered: Jul '05
41555_Padme
Date Posted: 9/13/06 3:59pm Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 6: No Place Like Home 9/12
I feel so bad for Elys, not having found his place among the Jedi yet. sad I didn't find my "place" among my friends and classmates really until I got into high school and before that I always felt so uncomfortable in my skin. Elys fiddling with the thread on his robe reminded me of those times, of how it felt sometimes. *huggles Elys* Wonderful portrayal of his character! He seems so real to me. happy All of the characters do.

*huggles Learza just because* wink

But the idea of a mythological being taking up residence in the lower levels of Coruscant seems rather unlikely.

Ha! That's what they think! tongue

Enjoyable isn't strong enough a word to describe this story so far. How about 'amazing'? applause

 

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Lovely-in-Orange  832 posts
Registered: Apr '05
23587_Snowspeeder
Date Posted: 9/13/06 9:05pm Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 6: No Place Like Home 9/12
The Master was flummoxed for a moment, unsure how to greet the canid. Learza took point, as she often did in such situations, and bowed her head, sending a small nudge of peace through the Force to the Master, who's smile brightened upon receiving it and sent a nudge in return. I really liked these lines. Learza understands how to reassure people. And Elys playing with the threads of his robe (and Learza getting distracted by that) really made the characters seem real. Hopefully, he'll trust his own instincts and not what the Council says about the Sith threat though.

 

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Ms. Star Wars 2009
Ties of Loyalty: http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/23926858/ - Imperials/OCs/Quinlan/Khaleen
A Boy and His Droids: http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=20555406
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oqidaun  7449 posts
Title: Manager Emeritus
Registered: Jul '05
20433_Piett
Date Posted: 9/15/06 1:09pm Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 6: No Place Like Home 9/12
Brilliant, JL!!!
Absolutely brilliant.

I love the worlds you create and depth of your characters.

Beautiful work.

 

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I'm so bad, I banned myself.
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Jennifer_Lyn  2185 posts
Registered: Jun '05
44088_Obi-Wan Kenobi
Date Posted: 9/19/06 10:32am Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 6: No Place Like Home 9/12
Eek! Darth Work is eating me alive! Let's get to these replies so I can get the next chapter up for ya. Rest assured that I've read every one of these and the mean so, so much to me!

Thank you for helping me prove that good stories can be written in fanfic without depending upon the canon characters!

Kes: thanks! the sith talk is supposed to make you nervous, dear. they are evil and all that. grin so glad you're enjoying this little corner of the galaxy i'm constructing.

Lovely-in-Orange: Glad you liked Regi, he was fun to write and just kinda showed up right when i needed him. yup, Learza keeps putting Elys in situations where he's got to take charge of a situation and be the Master he's supposed to be.
Learza's great with people. she has an intuitive, easy going nature and wants to set everyone at ease. we shall see what Elys decides to do with the Sith threat in the next chapter. grin

Luna: hope you got some rest and your reply was lovely, despite the fatigue. so glad you liked Master Tan. i was a bit nervous writing her as i was trying to write a Master that didn't come off as Qui or Obi, so that's a relief to hear. and would you expect any less of the Council? remember, these are the guys that about a century before this time period were actually Chancellors of the Republic!

SQ: yes, Tuesday is update day, but you're crazy anyway. grin Elys thanks you kindly for the huggles, it being fiction and the internet and all, your sympathies got to him just fine. Learza is doing her best, but she is the Padawan and he's the Master. we just need to keep reminding him of that.

MamaVader: so glad you're enjoying these guys. they've come quite alive in my brain, and i'm thrilled to know they're coming across on the page as well.

Nienna: i'm blushing right now. thank you so much for your kind compliments. you've no idea how much it means to me that Elys seems real to you. he's quite a presence, as is Learza, in my head. that's what they think, indeed!

oqidaun: thank you! as always, your beta gives me the confidence to keep plugging away at this story. i never would have started this thing without your encouragement. grin

 

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Forever in search of the perfect Obi-Wan quote but it remains something... elsewhere. Elusive.
OC revolutionaries never die, they just go into hiding.
A Stirring in the Bones - http://boards.theforce.net/b/b1/24526219/p5 - completed ages ago
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Jennifer_Lyn  2185 posts
Registered: Jun '05
44088_Obi-Wan Kenobi
Date Posted: 9/19/06 10:46am Subject: RE: A Stirring in the Bones (Drama, etc. - 850 BBY) - Chapter 6: No Place Like Home 9/12 - Date Edited: 9/21/06 8:36am (1 edits total) Edited By: Jennifer_Lyn


Chapter 7: What Dreams May Come

Jedi Temple, Coruscant, Core Worlds

The dining hall of the Jedi Temple was always busy. With Jedi arriving at all hours and keeping such varied schedules, even in the middle of the night beings could be found clustered around tables chatting with one another over their meals. His thoughts focused on his meeting with the Council and the lingering sense of something out of place, Elys had little desire to socialize. Putting in a request for a few things to stock their kitchen took only a few moments and, with a snack in hand, soon he and his Padawan were headed up to their quarters.

Having few possessions, and nothing of value, there was little chance of theft within the Temple. As such, none of the doors locked, allowing Elys to simply palm the panel at the side of the entryway before stepping into the rooms he and Learza called their own. The faint scent of cleaning solution greeted him, and the fading light of day shone through the transparisteel window, freshly washed and dominating the space. A few cushions sat neatly stacked against one wall and a comfortable, blue couch was along the other. Off to each side of the entrance was a doorway leading to sleeping quarters and directly to the left there was a galley kitchen with two chairs set under the work surface.

The efficiency of the droid delivery system in the Temple meant that the items Elys requested were already in a box on the counter. After a quick look around, he set about unpacking the containers and preparing their meals. Relaxing into the task at hand, his troubled thoughts were pushed to the side as he worked. Learza sat on one of the chairs, watching with rapt attention as he chopped vegetables and set them to cooking in a pan. Sniffing at the wet, white block he set on the cutting board next, she turned up her nose at the strange smell.

Laughing, Elys rubbed her head. "That's not for you, young one. That's my dinner."

Reaching into the delivery box one last time, he pulled a package out with a flourish. "This, Padawan mine, is yours."

Popping open the container, the smell of cooked meat wafted into the air as he dumped the contents into a clean bowl. Like many of the Jedi, Elys chose to refrain from cooking and eating the flesh of other animals, but Learza was under no compunction to follow his example and enjoyed her meal thoroughly. Noting that his Padawan was much more aware of her place in the food chain, he accepted her choice. Too many other beings in the galaxy remained ignorant of where their shaak or nerf steak originated and, as with all things, Elys did what he could to contribute his own small part to the betterment of the galaxy by abstaining from the practice.

A silent camaraderie fell over the two as they ate their meal in the peace and quiet of their own rooms. When both had finished, Elys cleaned the dishes, still absorbing the freedom of being at home. Once finished, he set out the cushions on the floor before the window and he and Learza took their places for meditation.

Closing his eyes, Elys felt the swirling eddies of the Force envelope them. Guiding Learza through the meditation, Elys spent much of the exercise focused on keeping his wandering Padawan on track. Her easy connection to the Force allowed her to roam about with ease, following the currents wherever they might lead. The young dog spent as much time exploring the edges of her perception as she did honing in on the places her Master guided her.

When at last she accomplished the tasks set out for her, Learza remained enveloped in the peaceful energy of the Force, playing with the tendrils of the bond she shared with her Elys. Sensing an unease coming from his end of their tether, she prodded him.

'Master? Something is bothering you.' Standing from her own cushion, Learza moved to Elys' side and waited until he made room for her on his cushion.

'Very perceptive, my Padawan. I have it shielded from you quite well, yet you have found me out.' He smiled at her as he unbuckled the vest she wore. 'Remember this when we sit down to meditate tomorrow. This is the kind of skills I want to see you develop more fully.'

'Yes, Master.' she replied, then hesitantly prodded further. 'Do you need to talk, Master?'

'Not yet, Learza. Maybe in the morning. I'd like to think a bit more.'
Giving her coat a quick rubdown with his hands, Elys began to yawn. 'Why don't you head off to your room. I'll be going to bed shortly myself.'

'Yes, Master.'
she rose and, giving his shoulder a quick nudge with her head, left him for the room set aside for her.

Elys closed his eyes once more. There were stirrings in the Force, he could feel them. Relaxing his body as best he could, he followed a few of the many threads of possibility laid out before him. With foresight never his strongest skill, his focus soon turned to frustration. Try as he might, the elusive threads of clarity remained just out of reach, leaving behind the questions that still worried at his mind. Succumbing to the futility of his search and the weariness in his bones, he stopped his meditation, retiring to his room for much needed rest.

Although falling asleep with ease, Elys slept in disturbed fits and starts, waking often throughout the night. Twisting his sheets around himself he would awake, a sense of entrapment enveloping his foggy mind. Each time he opened his eyes he would clear his wild thoughts, focus on the Force and release his frustrations into its ready embrace. At last, much closer to morning than he desired, he fell into a deeper sleep and began to dream.

Walking along a dark passage carved from stone, he felt insubstantial, his own hands a ghostly vapor before his eyes. A door was open at the end of the corridor, flickering light emanating from within the room beyond, drawing him towards it. Entering the room, he was bathed in a red light, its source undetectable, seeming to come from everywhere at once. A voice chanted unfamiliar words, the urgency in its tone growing from a quiet whisper into a screaming, rabid desperation. A sense of deep anger and hatred soaked every surface of the room as power washed over him in a tidal wave of Force energy.

Forcing himself out of the dream, Elys sat up straight in bed, flinging the covers off and throwing his legs over the side as he gasped for breath. Feeling damp with sweat, he rose and stumbled to the refresher. Washing his face in the cool water from the sink cleared his head, though the nightmare still lingered as an oppressive weight on his mind, adding to the thoughts still circling there from the previous day. Giving up on getting back to sleep, he wandered to the main living area and looked out over the skyline. The palest hint of dawn tinted the sky in deep purple and one could almost see the chill in the air.

There was a stirring in the next room and a moment later Learza appeared at his side. She sat looking up at him for a long moment. When he did not react to her presence, she butted him with her head and whined low in her throat. His thoughts blocking their connection, she was forced to use physical contact to show her concern and drag his focus back to the present. Realizing that he was shutting her out, Elys chastised himself for the lapse in focus and gave his Padawan his full attention. When he did so, he was finally able to receive her thoughts and the wave of concern that flowed from her.

'Master?' She was distressed at the static in their bond. Kneeling before her, Elys took her head in both his hands and scrubbed at her face before ruffling then smoothing her fur all the way down to her tail. The physical attention always calmed his charge when their bond became frayed.

When the task was done, he patted her back, his thoughts still threatening to wander off despite the grounding influence the action gave him. 'Learza. Let's go for a walk, shall we?'

'Yes, Master.'
Responding in a more relaxed tone, Learza knew answers to her concerns about her Master may soon be coming.

Throwing a tunic over his sleep pants, Elys didn't bothering dressing any further, his need to move outweighing any sense of propriety. Padding barefoot down one of the many long corridors that divided the Temple, he was pleased to find they were alone. Learza followed him in silence, soon becoming aware that their wanderings were just that and he had no true destination in mind. On and on they walked, soon rambling through passageways Learza had never seen before, never taking a turbolift, yet somehow rising higher and higher within the structure. At last they walked along a great causeway bordered by great pillars on one side and immense sheets of transparisteel on the other and Learza could see they were high above the city, the morning light shifting now from purple to many shades of red as the sun began to rise.

'Padawan,' Elys broke his long silence with an abrupt statement. 'there is a thought that plagues me.'

'Yes Master?' she sent a small tendril of Force energy to him, urging him to speak further.

He hesitated for a brief moment before continuing, now beginning to think the question foolish if he were disturbing his apprentice over nothing. But no, the thoughts would not go away and with only one way to resolve them he would need his Padawan's full cooperation to proceed. 'Why did Master Havna say that Grannie was in the lower levels? The letter said near the Temple. It did not mention where near the Temple.'

'I was wondering the same thing, Master, but I didn't think I could be right.' Learza admitted, the thought coming through with a tinge of self doubt Elys recognized all too well from his own musings.

Elys stopped in his tracks, blurting his reaction out loud. “Learza, I thought your mind was wandering during the discussion and yet you caught that information." his excitement at her achievement overcame the seriousness of the situation for a moment. "I'm very proud of you."

'Thank you, Master.' she replied, then began to press him further. 'But what does that mean? Did the Council lie to us? Why would they do that?'

Turning to face her, Elys pondered the question for a moment, crossing his arms over his chest. 'I do not think they told us nothing but falsehoods, Padawan. I believe their intent is true and they were forthright about their concerns for the Order’s place in the Republic. I think they do not see that letter as a warning sign, but simply another of many situations to monitor.'

Neither said anything for a few moments, letting the weight of the conversation sit between them while each reached into the Force in search of guidance. Things shifted and a new thread of possibility opened up as a result of their discussion. Learza cocked her head to the side, as if attuning her physical senses would enable her to hear the currents of the Force with more clarity.

'We are free to do as we please now, Master?' she asked, the seemingly innocent question carrying none of the joy such freedom should carry.

Elys, sensing where her line of questioning would take them took a deep breath, plunging forward to follow where fate was leading them, though the path was little clearer now than it had been the evening before. 'Yes, Padawan. Why? What would you like to do?'

'Find Grannie Hella.' she put the thought forth, still hesitant about what her Master's reaction might be and where the journey might take them.

Moving to the window, Elys looked down to the lowest areas still visible from their height. Something was rippling through the Force, deep and powerful. He could not pinpoint it, but when combined with his dream it gave him a deep sense of unease. If it were more than a dream, if it was a vision, what then? A whisper in his mind told him there may be something he and Learza could do to change the course of events and avoid the horrific outcome the dream foretold, though he knew in his heart neither of them would come through the experience unchanged.

Learza came and put her paws up on the railing, that she might look down as well. The Force swirling around her, she wondered if this was the shift that she sought for as long as she was Elys' Padawan. Was this the thing that would let her Master fill the empty place in his heart? And if it was, where would she go when its rightful owner appeared to take that place? Pushing the sad thought aside, Learza looked up at her Master and saw a small smile creeping across his face.

"Padawan, let us go and dress. I believe there is a myth we need to prove true."

 

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Forever in search of the perfect Obi-Wan quote but it remains something... elsewhere. Elusive.
OC revolutionaries never die, they just go into hiding.
A Stirring in the Bones - http://boards.theforce.net/b/b1/24526219/p5 - completed ages ago
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