Chapter 5: A New Dawn

And from the crossroads where peasant and his king meet, there shall arise a new facet of the Force. A great master will arise, eclipsing all that have come after and since. Through the master, dark and light will collide and the galaxy will be thrown into turmoil. So is it written so will it be.

- Ancient Jedi Prophesy

Eisley Palpatine stood in his stately robes, facing a grand scale of windows. His image reflected back on the glass, so one that might observe him could see two personas of the same being. His hair held a gray tinge now, as his senatorship was coming to a completion. The Naboodian council was still strong, although they were striving to change the overwhelming tide of oppression in its surrounding systems. Palpatine knew of the bureaucracy tendencies and the slow pace at which the Senate moved now. The Great Senate was but a mere shadow of what it had been in years past. The strength of a thousand years was dwindling before their very eyes. Strength was no longer found in those who ruled, and the lack of respect made him disgusted. He turned from the window to cross to his audience dais and sat upon his chair. He would lend strength and centralization to the Republic, he thought. He would lend them if it was the last thing he did.

"Oceanius IV, water planet. Located in the third tier of stars from Corsucant. Main export: salt and aquatic life as well as precious stone. Language:" Obi-Wan lifted his head from the viewport to look at his mentor. "This cannot be right, Master."

"What is it, Padawan?" Qui-Gon leaned over the chair to look at the screen in front of them. "What is their language?"

"They do not speak Basic. Their official language is Hydodian." Obi-Wan winced. "That will add, I'm sure, to the amount of energy this diplomatic mission will exploit." The young Jedi lifted his head to smile at his Master with a shrug. "What do you know of the language?"

"Painfully little, Obi-Wan." Qui-Gon returned with a solemn grin of his own. "But the Force will lead us through and provide a way to accomplish our task. What else is there that we need to know?"

"Oceanius natives are of amphibian nature, however, there is little dry land left onto which they can exist. The main landing port is on the main landmass of Titela. Temperatures of the planet fluctuate between forty standard units during the day to minus 10 standard units at night. The atmosphere in the water is of a more steady type, not moving much off of 20 standard units. Their current ordeal exists over a five hundred-season dispute for the ruling party of the planet. Two families have been at war on and off for an eon. It has only recently caused a problem with trade exportations. We are to settle the dispute only so far as the trade lines are involved, we are not to end their dispute." Obi-Wan finished his synopsis with a flourish and leaned back in the chair to view his mentor.

Qui-Gon nodded thoughtfully, turning to watch the planet below for a moment. The viewscreen was filled with a sapphire blue world whose uniformity was only broken occasionally by sand colored landmass. "I feel that something is not right here, Obi-Wan. I feel that there is more here than meets the eye and that it will be a struggle to get them to see the Senate's ruling."

"And the lack of a common language will only compound the problems, Master." Obi-Wan frowned as he turned off the viewport and the cockpit of the ship was filled with only the reflected light of the planet below. The two Jedi fell silent until the door behind them slid open.

Padme Amidala had had quite enough of reading for the day, and was looking for her teacher to beg for something else to do. She stopped in the doorway to look at the planet below. "We've arrived, then."

"Yes, Padme." Qui-Gon mused. "It seems as though we have. Finished your reading?"

"Yes, Master Jedi." Padme moved forward to look at Obi-Wan in his reclined position. "Let me see." She laid her hand on Obi-Wan's arm and smiled gently. "Yes, the planet below is Oceanius IV. The mission will begin soon, but you are troubled. The language is presenting a problem; neither of you speak Hydodian." Obi-Wan squirmed as Padme gripped his arm harder. "And you have not found your breathing apparatus, yet."

"Very good, Padme." Qui-Gon nodded in satisfaction.

"Why does she pick me for this little game she plays?" Obi-Wan sighed, fixing his robe about his shoulders as Padme smiled gently at him. She answered with an ease that both men had gotten to know in the last season. "Because, Obi-Wan, your mind is easier to interpret and read."

Qui-Gon smiled a tight smile at both of his charges and nodded to the planet below. "Obi-Wan and I must leave the ship in orbit. There is precious little landing space on the planet. Come, Padme, I will give you your lessons for the next few days; it should keep you busy until we return."

As Qui-Gon went to pass the girl, her hand shot out to land on his arm. Sensing that she had something to say, the elder Jedi bent to hear her. Padme, for her part, was upset with the prospect of remaining on the ship throughout another mission. She gazed at her teacher with respect, but with purpose. "Qui-Gon, I have remained on this ship through every mission that you and Obi-Wan have been sent on for the last season. With all due respect, sir, I feel as though I can add something to this mission."

Obi-Wan sat forward to watch his Master and the lithe girl debate. It was a favored pastime of his, as both possessed keen intellect and sometimes-sharp tongues. He smiled as he watched his mentor draw to his full height and shake his head. "No, young Draca, we have talked about this previously. You remain on the ship while we are off-world."

"I am not a child, Master Jedi, and I do not wish to be treated as such. This mission could be jeopardized if I do not accompany you." Padme swung her long heavy braid behind her head, allowing her brown eyes to grow to their fullest size. "I can help you this time."

"I think not, Padme."

Qui-Gon moved to walk past her as her hand grabbed his for an instant to halt his retreat. Once he turned she dropped it and smiled. "I know Hydodian."

Obi-Wan smiled fully as he watched his Master stop and gaze at the girl, his blue eyes alight with new knowledge. He was silent for a period, until he turned to Obi- Wan with a smile. "Told you, I did, that the Force would provide a way. Very well, Padme, maybe you are ready to accompany us. But you will have to wear the Jedi ceremonial wear that Mace provided you and you must remain between Obi-Wan and I when we process. Is that understood?"

"Clearly, Master." Padme answered with a smile and a wink towards Obi-Wan. Obi-Wan rose out of his chair and stalked down the dimly light hall toward the cabin wing. Once the door shut, Qui-Gon turned to Padme fully and grasped her chin. When her face was raised to his, he spoke bluntly and heavily. "I am allowing this only for the sake of the mission, Padme. Do not allow the feelings of glee, they will hurt you. And, this display of stubborn will has not gone unnoticed. You will need to curb these outbursts if you are to have the drive necessary to harness your skills properly. I am your teacher and I command respect from you."

Padme lowered her eyes and waited until Qui-Gon released her chin to speak. "I apologize, Jedi teacher. May I speak?"

"Yes." Qui-Gon stated bluntly.

"My childhood and early adolescent seasons were spent working on and perfecting my negotiation and diplomatic skills. I feel that this past, combined with your teachings and practice of my Jedi skills should not be wasted." Padme said softly, her face turned towards the ground.

"I agree, Draca." Qui-Gon was quiet for a moment. "I do not think that your Jedi skills are perfected completely, though. These missions are sometimes dangerous, sometimes mundane, but if we run into trouble, young one, I and Obi-Wan have our given orders and our creed to follow. You will be completely on your own. I cannot endanger the mission."

"Let me have my trial by fire, Master Jedi." Padme intoned quietly.

"And so you shall, Padme." Qui-Gon pressed the door mechanism. As it slid open, he moved forward, his young student following in tow. "And so you shall." -----------

The sand beneath Obi-Wan's bare feet was hot to the touch and was causing a slight discomfort. The sun overhead beat down with an intensity that he had not felt in years, since visiting his sister on Tatootine. His short hair was doing little to stop the sweat from rolling down his face. His hazel eyes caught his master's blue ones and they shared a nod. Turning back forward, the young Jedi placed his hands folded in front of him, mirroring Qui-Gon's stance. His ears were being assaulted by the disharmonious sound of the Hydodian language, and it was enough to ruin his concentration on the matter at hand.

His gaze dropped to Padme, clad in a tan tunic belted over her slim hips. Her dark blue cloak denoting her stature as a Jedi student was surely capturing and exploiting far more of the solar energy than his brown one, but she did not falter in the intonations and stature. Her long chestnut hair flowed down her back to end in a knot below her waist. Quietly, but with a level of confidence, she intoned what was needed, relaying the given messages to Qui-Gon and answering back to the Oceanians. In the last season, Padme had become like a sister to him, and this instance was only increasing his pride in her and her abilities. At barely seventeen, Padme Nabierre Amidala was shining brightly.

The Oceanian leader that met them at the ramp of the port was a large, almost frog-like creature, standing slightly under Qui-Gon's height. Their slimy purple skin was beautiful to behold changing in hue depending on the angle at which the being stood and the way with which the sun's rays were burning. Such beauty, Obi-Wan had neither seen nor experienced previously.

The trio's feet were unclad on the sand in deference to the culture of the planet and to show respect to the leader. On Obi-Wan's back there was a knapsack that contained a meager collection of survival supplies that the elder Jedi always insisted on having with them when planet side. He watched as Padme lifted her hands in the universal sign of understanding and continued on her intonation. The Oceanian leader nodded enthusiastically before erupting in a loud shout that hurt all the human ears present, although Padme was the one that did not flinch. She turned quietly to Qui-Gon, keeping her eyes downcast. After a short exchange, he nodded and pointed at the dwelling behind them. Padme nodded and turned to the leader to ask a short question. Soon, the trio was being led to the dwelling.

Once inside, the three humans shed their cloaks with speed betraying their need to remove layers of clothes in the heat. Qui-Gon smiled at Padme as she shook her head violently to regain some of her hearing after being assaulted close range by the loud sounds of the Oceanian Hydodian language.

"I have to admit, Padme, your bearing and your ability to keep a clean mind is of high quality." Qui-Gon stated, kindly.

"Thank you, teacher, although I think that this mission is going to take longer than expected, with or without my skills." Padme shook her head again and turned to Obi-Wan. "Do you agree, Ben?"

"Aye." Obi-Wan smiled gently. "Although it would help if I knew what was said. I gather a feeling of frustration from you, Padme, but I do not perceive the reason."

Qui-Gon turned to his apprentice, " The leader that we met with is not the true leader of the currently in power family. He was simply a cousin of some type to the leader and was elected to come meet with us to determine our worthiness of meeting with the Bunda." He shook his head. "What made this harder is that they have denounced the Senate's ability to rule over them. I feel that we could be in danger if this mission does not end soon."

"Danger, Master?" Obi-Wan leaned over a chair that was placed next to a sturdy table. "Of which type do you sense?"

"If the opposing party or if one of the members of the party in power decide that we are endangering their position and that we might spark a feeling of rebellion against those in power, they might more to either exploit us or harm us to achieve their end." Qui-Gon nodded to the collection of Oceanians that were left by the door. "Either way, it is not good for us."

Padme sunk into a chair, wiping her brow clear of sweat. "What do you think of this mention of a dark lord, Sir? The description of their new god sounds an awful a lot like the mention of the Sith Lords in the Jedi Chronicles that you have had me read."

"I realize the similarity, young Padme, but the Sith have been extinct for a millennia. I highly doubt that they could have returned without our having knowledge of them." Qui-Gon nodded solemnly, "But your insight does you credit."

Padme smiled and stretch her arms above her head. The sun outside was setting on the sapphire ocean; casting tendrils across the mass like a giant Hedion squid. Qui-Gon motioned to both of his charges to make their beds for the night as he pulled a comlink from his cloak. After a few short minutes, he finished appraising the captain of their ship what the situation was and gave their location. He also then turned to make his bed for the night, admonishing both Padme and his Padawan to keep their sabres close by and at ready for use. The night fell hard and quick on the dwelling and those inside fell into the heavy sleep of those exhausted.

"Master?"

The dark clothed humanoid that was addressed extended his hand to allow the reporter to continue.

"Master, the Jedi have arrived from Corsucant to intervene for the trade networks."

"I know." Came the low rumbled reply.

"What should we do? Answer them quietly and send them on their way?"

"No." A pause ensued. "Go to their dwelling tonight and take them. They will be asleep with the weight of a heavy wave. Take them to the lair of the Jawaka and use them for the seasonal sacrifice."

"But, sire, the Senate.."

"I will deal with the Senate, apprentice. Do as I say."

The smaller amphibian bowed and backed out of the room, leaving the other to turn back toward the window in thought.

Chapter 6:

Padme woke to the feeling of a heavy arm thrown across her upper chest. She quietly lay there for several minutes, clearing her mind of worry, for this was not as she remembered falling asleep. With her eyes still closed, she searched with the Force to determine the placement of her companions and her enemies. She could feel Ben's presence close to her left leg and knew that he was still unconscious, placed slightly on his side. Qui-Gon's presence was the one that she felt closest to her and she correctly assumed that it was his arm that was across her body. Searching for her teacher's presence, she came across his wakened mind. At his mindful prodding, she slowly came fully to her senses, listening to the sound of a speeder barely above crashing waves traveling at a high rate of speed. In a low voice, he spoke in her ear next to his mouth.

"Yes, Padme, a speeder. A small one at that. How are you?"

She opened her mouth, but could not speak. She answered him as best she could through her mind. She sent him an overwhelming feeling of confusion and worry at loss of her voice, but then amended it with a questioning thought.

He sighed quietly. "I don't know how we got here either, young one. But I'm sure we will find out our purpose soon enough." Her teacher's low tone comforted her. She returned her thoughts to Ben lying groggily against the side of the speeder. Qui-Gon moved closer as the beings moved above him to walk around their thrown bodies. "He awoke earlier and was drugged slightly to return him to that state. We have been traveling for several hours, I think."

"Wha." she asked quietly, swallowing heavily.

"Patience, Padme. Remain calm, the Force will give us our purpose and our opening to escape. Trust in that, young one." He smiled gently against her brow. "We must find out their purpose before we attack. For now, play dead, Padme."

She sent a feeling of genuine amusement at his statement and relaxed her body. Her mind soon followed suit and she found herself drifting in a sea of nothingness, feeling and absorbing the Force as it flowed through her.

Qui-Gon sighed as he felt his student lessen her grip on her feelings to allow the Force to guide her. Never had he been so glad for her quick learning skills and strength of character. He was still counting on her stubborn nature, though, for he knew that they would all be in need of that nature for holding onto life soon. He moved his body to feel Obi-Wan against his right leg. The man was slowly returning to his senses and was transmitting a feeling of frustration to his teacher. Qui-Gon smiled and sent back a quieting thought of patience and peace. Obi-Wan immediately relaxed, and then searched for Padme with his thoughts, frantic when he could not feel her. His mentor quieted him with an image of his arm across the girl's body and the semi-comfortable position that she lay in next to him. Assured, Obi-Wan returned to a meditative state.

A short time later, Qui-Gon was pushed bodily against Padme by their attackers. They were getting tired of tripping over the man's long legs and were angrily taking it out on what they thought was his unconscious form. The Jedi stifled a groan of pain as one of their feet made contact with his ribs. Padme jolted awake as her teacher pressed her against the side of the speeder. She could feel his pain and was saddened by it. His head came to rest fully against her ear in the crook of her neck. "Lay still, Padme." He admonished in a light whisper. "They think that we still sleep."

"But you are in pain." She croaked silently in return.

"It will pass." He sighed. The speeder was slowing, and the elder Jedi could hear a difference in the surf below them. With the Force, he searched for his surroundings. The image that was shown to him was one of a small island with sheer cliffs, surrounded by immense oceans. He shared his vision with Padme through a terse sentence. She swallowed and nodded. Soon the entire speeder came to a complete stop and was hovered over a ceremonial well that was clearly deeper than the other surrounding waters. Roughly the trio was wakened and pulled to a semi erect position to sit along the side of the vehicle. Padme rested between Obi-Wan and her teacher, watching the amphibious creatures closely.

Qui-Gon was concentrating on his sabre's location, and found that it was not with him. From the feeling of frustration he picked up from Obi-Wan, his sabre was gone also. His sharp blue eyes saw that Ben still had the knapsack and his cloak. Qui-Gon wore his cloak about his shoulders, but Padme was without hers, although from the feeling of triumph that he received from the girl, he gathered that she still had her sabre somehow. As he was pulled fully to his erect position, he found that his hands were bound, showing that the attackers had anticipated the use of Jedi mind tricks and manipulations. He watched suspiciously as a long measure of rope was unraveled and pulled to its full length.

Padme moved her hands quietly in their loose binding. The rope around Ben's hands began to loosen and fall away. The nearest Oceanian to them saw what was happening and hit Padme soundly across her brow. As she crumpled silently, Qui-Gon got his bound arms under her to stop her fall. "Don't do anything foolish." He admonished, supporting her until she could get her feet under her.

"We should be able to." she began lowly, but was silenced quickly as Qui-Gon shook his head. "Patience," was all he said.

One of the beings turned to him and chuckled silently, finishing his laughter with a short sentence that Qui- Gon could not interrupt. Padme winced as she told her teacher what was said. "We are to be sacrifices for the Jawaka. It does not matter if we are alive, dead, asleep or awake."

Qui-Gon met Obi-Wan's eye over the girl's head with a look of patience. The younger man nodded and stood silently as the other creatures moved toward them. Padme stood her ground as they approached and nodded towards the rope dangling from one of their hands. "We are to be some kind of lure, apparently, Master Jedi." She stated. Seeing that they meant to lash the three together in a mesh of upper bodies with their feet dangling, Qui-Gon thought quickly.

Padme gasped as she suddenly felt her teacher throw his bound arms around her and lift her so that her head was even with his own. With a quietly controlled tone, he stated "Padme, hold onto my shoulders, tightly, understand me?"

The girl nodded, placing her arms over the teacher's broad shoulders to clasp at his back. She was surprised to feel Obi-Wan's bound arms placed around her torso, entwining with his mentor's. Qui-Gon grunted in approval of his Padawan's insight. "Good, good." He whispered.

The attackers laughed as they saw the willingness of the captured to follow with the plans. They removed the binding on the hands only to replace them with a wound coil of rope that encased almost the Jedi's entire upper bodies. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon allowed the winding of the rope by tightening their muscles so that the rope, when fastened and their bodies at rest, would be slightly slackened. Qui-Gon watched as another speeder was drawn alongside of theirs and two of the Oceanians moved to the other skiff with the other end of the rope. Soon, a mini-religious ceremony was in full swing. Obi-Wan whispered over Padme's shoulder, "Master, the time is near."

Qui-Gon nodded and moved his mouth next to Padme's ear. "Listen to me carefully, Padme. Where is your sabre?"

"In my undergarment, attached under the left fold of the tunic." She answered calmly. He moved his arms to pull her closer to his chest, and Obi-Wan's hand was able to move higher on her torso so that his fingers were on the inside of the fold of the tunic. The ceremony was drawing to a close. He leaned closer to make eye contact with Obi-Wan. "As soon as you can, remove the sabre, Padawan. The immediate pass over the well after that towards land, wait until we have momentum and withdraw your hands and cut the rope. Understood?"

"Yes, Master." Obi- Wan breathed ruffling Padme's hair.

"Padme." The girl moved her head to allow eye contact with her teacher. "On the pass after Obi-Wan has removed your sabre pull back from my chest, but do not let go." At her curt nod, he sighed. "Remember your breathing exercise, Padme. Deep breaths and then hold. Use your ability to meditate. You have the natural ability to go into a trance easily." The roar of the skiff engine drowned the last part of his sentence out, and he pulled her closer to whisper in her ear as loud as he could. "If problems arise, let me know."

"How?"

Qui-Gon grasped the girl's ponytail to pull her head back to look at him. "Remember all that you have learned, and the answer will be clear."

She nodded solemnly as she felt the rope tied to them pull taut and they were hauled over the side of the speeder.

The next feeling that Padme was aware of was the pain of water hitting her body after a several meter drop. Her arms tightened around Qui-Gon as their heads went under the water. She willed a sense of calmness to take her being, and allowed the air in her lungs to move about as though it were part of her. A sense of body confusion for which side was up made her stomach nauseous, but she maintained her grip on her teacher. Soon she felt their momentum through the water stop and the two men kicked their way to the surface, supporting the shorter Padme between them. As Qui-Gon's strong legs kicked to maintain their heads above water he shouted to Obi-Wan. "Have you gotten the sabre?"

"Not yet, Master" the younger shouted in return, moving his hands higher on Padme's torso to grasp at her tunic's fold.

"Speed is of the essence, Padawan." The elder man commented as he tightened his grip on the girl to ensure that her head was above water. "I do not feel the creature's presence yet, but I know that it is close." His eyes followed the progress of the skiff to realize that their trip back across the mouth of the well was imminent. "Hold on, Padme, and allow him to get your sabre." He commented as they were whipped back across the measure of water.

Padme felt Ben's hands grasp at her tunic and wrench it as they were pulled underwater by the force of the skiff's momentum. She held her breath and relaxed to feel his hands moving about her clothes searching for the sabre. Obi-Wan squeezed her waist as her removed the sabre from the containment of her clothes and she relaxed completely, but held onto Qui-Gon's shoulders fiercely. She could feel her teacher's worry as they shot over the open mouth of the well; its depths dropping infinitely, their feet dangling as a very convincing lure. Her lung capacity was near bursting point as they finally were released from the forward pull and they shot toward the surface.

"Padawan?" came the terse shout.

"I have it, Master." Obi-Wan shouted back, his arms tight about Padme as he held her aloft in the current. "I have it."

"Good. Next pass, Obi-Wan." Qui-Gon shouted back, holding Padme tightly. His eyes landed on her tearing ones. "Padme, you must expand your lungs as much as you can on this pass, we will be underwater longer." She nodded as much as she could and he pulled her tighter so that her head was in the crook of his neck. "Calm, Padme."

She closed her eyes and breathed deeply, and as she felt the whip of the rope about them, she took a final breath and held it within her. The return across the well seemed to be at a higher rate of speed this time, and they flew across the great chasm their feet kicking bubbles in their wake. She remained calm and peaceful, holding the air within her lungs as deep as she could, releasing her rough hold on Qui-Gon to allow Obi-Wan's hands to slip from around her. With a flash of her green sabre, the rope was severed and Obi-Wan extinguished the flame before others could be alerted to its presence. Qui-Gon tightened his hold on the girl as they continued to fly through the water, the two Jedi kicking in unison to move them further away from the well and the Oceanians.

Padme grasped at Qui-Gon, feeling her air move about her lungs, peaceful and calm. Soon, however, it became evident that her lung capacity was reaching its limit. Her teacher and Ben still swam, oblivious to her plight. To help them, she began to kick her legs in time with theirs to move them along. Her consciousness was slowly graying as they moved and she realized that her air had run out. Calmly she touched her Master's mind to pass on the knowledge of her plight.

Qui-Gon's mind was tight on their purpose, searching for strength within his own body to move them away. He could sense that the Oceanians were happy that their bait had disappeared and they assumed the almighty Jawaka had accepted the trio. That removed some of his worry and he pushed to reach a small cave that he had seen on their last pass. He could feel Obi-Wan's strength in their movements and was proud of his student's abilities. It was on this last thought that he suddenly realized that Padme was touching his mind. He sensed her acceptance of her dimming consciousness and tightened his arms around her lower back. In slow motion, Padme's head moved back from her teacher's neck in languid ease.

Without thinking, Qui-Gon placed his mouth over his student's and pushed some of his air into the girl's lungs. His leg movements quickened and they surged toward the small cave. Obi-Wan realized the new threat and began to move with renewed purpose. As the sky above them drew darker, the two men surged for the surface, pulling the limp girl along with them.

Obi-Wan began to gain his footing on the shallows and turned as he could to unravel the coil about them that had slackened due to the cut of the sabre. The other Jedi had already planted his feet. Obi-Wan spared a glance at his mentor as he pulled furiously at the bound rope. Qui-Gon still had his mouth over Padme's, allowing her to take air from within his own lungs. It was then that the younger Jedi knew that Padme was not breathing on her own.

"We are free, Master." He cried as the last of the coils fell away. A short distance away in the cave, there was a small beach. He moved apart from Qui-Gon as the man hauled for shore, his student slack in his arms. Obi-Wan followed frantically, pulling at the knapsack on his back for first aid supplies.

Qui-Gon laid Padme down and pulled back from her. "No breath, Obi-Wan, find the breather pack in the knapsack." He ordered sharply, tilting Padme's head back on her neck and opening her mouth. Quickly he began to take deep breaths and place his mouth over Padme's, pushing air within her, expanding her chest. Obi-Wan dumped the pack on the ground; digging through the hastily packed sack to find that the breather was not among the items that spilled out from its innards. "Ma' Chi!" he cursed.

Qui-Gon paid no heed to his Padawan's pain, pulling back to take another breath. "Hold her head, then." The elder man continued with the procedure, drawing air into his mouth and pushing it back between her lips. As he lifted another time, he met Obi-Wan's eyes and stated as calmly as he could. "Hold her head and telegraph to her lungs. Picture her breathing." He bent back to fill her lungs again when suddenly Padme jerked in Obi-Wan's grip and she began to sputter water. Qui-Gon grabbed the back of her head from his Padawan and turned her over his lap so that she could expel the water more easily. Her teacher bent slightly at the waist to rub her back. "Breathe, young one, breathe."

Padme gasped as a wave of cold, wet air crossed her lips and lit her lungs on fire. Her sight and feelings gradually cleared so that she was able to discern her surroundings. Her dark hair hung in her face, soaked, and her front was warm where she was spread on her teacher's lap. She began to push upwards, until Qui- Gon effortlessly flipped her over on her back and supported her as she sat up. Within minutes, she began to shake and shiver.

Qui-Gon smiled gently and sighed as he picked her up against his chest. "You are in shock."

She nodded slightly, grasping at his collar on his tunic. "Yes."

He rubbed his chin across the top of her head absently, holding her tightly. "We'll have to keep you warm."

"I am fine." She whispered, jerking her muscles as he stood with her in his arms.

"I'm sure that you are, Padme." He sighed, "But it would help me if you would not argue with me. Obi- Wan" he called, "do we have a semi-dry blanket?"

"Right here, Master." He stated, pulling one over to the couple as the elder man sat Padme down on the sleep cushion that Obi-Wan had removed recently. The Master Jedi thanked him for the gift and sat down to wrap the girl in the blanket and bodily pull her onto his lap again. "Wrap up, Draca."

Padme did not argue, sleepily smiling as she pulled the blanket around her. Qui-Gon held her gently as he hung his head with a shake. "You gave me a scare, young one. Next time, let us know when you need help." At her open mouth, he held up a finger. "There is no shame in asking for help. This feat was something that you were not trained for, and had no way of preparing for. As it was, you did a truly excellent job, but please, learn that you can ask me."

"Yes, Master." She said, groggily and nodded gently into sleep.

Chapter 7:

Padme laid her hand on the dark brown cloak of her teacher, testing it for dampness. The glow of her sabre shone in the dank air of the cave and served to warm the cloaks of her companion Jedi. She retrieved both of the cloaks and moved back toward the makeshift camp that the two men had set up while she had recovered. Obi-Wan lifted his head to acknowledge her approach and turned back to tying his master's ribs. The elder Jedi sighed as the material was drawn sharp across his torso, securing his loose rib into place. Padme could see a bruise extending from one side of his rib cage to the other. She grimaced and moved next to the men and laid the cloaks out on the sleep cushion. "They are dry."

In her exhaustion, Padme Nabierre's voice had taken on the twang of the Naboo that she had strove to shed over the last season. Qui-Gon raised his eyes from his Padawan to look at the girl as she moved next to them. She sat down quietly, and watched as Obi-Wan tried to get his large hands to tie a knot in the material. The Jedi bit his lip and sighed as the knot did not take and the material fell away from his Master's body. Qui-Gon grimaced and sighed, as he knew that the process would have to start over again. Padme smiled gently as Ben opened his mouth to apologize and shook her head. While sitting there, she raised her hand and the pack across the cushion shook and then rose to meet her hand. Quietly she dug through the collection to retrieve a small vial of ointment. Leaning forward, she spread the ointment on Qui-Gon's bruise, watching as her teacher unset his jaw.

To Ben, she said: "Tydrian pain ointment.if you ever have a bruise or internal injury such as this, spread the ointment on the surface. It will take the pain from the area, without dulling your senses." She gently prodded the area and nodded satisfactorily. The rib did not seem in pieces, but rather just simply misplaced. All that would be needed would be a mender, but they were not carrying one. "Ben, pull the material again, firmly. When you get it stretched, allow me to tie the knot.my hands are smaller and can get it."

Obi-Wan smiled at Padme, leaning across his Master's chest to grab at the material. "I think that you will be teaching us the healing arts when we make it back to the ship, Padme."

"Oaf. You, of all people, should know them by now; you need them enough." She joked back as she took the material and secured a tight knot. As she looked down at her teacher, she drew his attention by placing a hand on his chest. "Master Jedi? Qui-Gon, look inside yourself. Is this secured properly, is it causing you discomfort?"

Qui-Gon nodded to Padme, "Time for your next lesson, Padme." He said quietly. "You have the gift of healing. Time to take it to the next level, tell me.is it secured properly?"

The girl closed her eyes, recalling first that day so long ago when she had first healed the Jedi and then set about finding the information that she needed. Gently, she laid her hand on the bound area of the Jedi, visualizing the area. She first saw bruised skin, then the skin in her mind pulled back. Her Master's voice reached her as she delved deeper into his body with her mind. "Good, Draca, concentrate. Tell me what you see."

She frowned as the skin pulled completely apart to allow her to see his muscles. There were spots of blood on them as she saw tears in their fabric. "Tears, Qui-Gon, tears. There is blood in your muscle." She turned her head to the side as her mind slipped between the fibers to see the bones beneath. "Your fourth rib is slightly out of alignment with the others, and .yes there is a fracture. I could not feel that before. The binding is properly placed, and I feel no discomfort in you." She was silent for awhile, as Qui-Gon nodded with satisfaction. Suddenly his student turned her head to the other side; she moved her hands to where the fracture was on his torso. He felt warmth even through the ointment and the material. Padme was seeing his rib heal itself as her warmth of her hands crossed the area of the fracture and she applied pressure.

Qui-Gon drew a sharp breath as the heat turned to fire. Obi-Wan held his Master down as Padme continued her administration. "Padme.Padme!"

She concentrated on backing her mind away from the rib to deal with the torn muscles. She imagined herself with a small needle, mending the fibers of the muscle, and watched as they drew together and closed. She backed out of his body with a weary sigh. As she opened her eyes, she was presented with an incredulous look from her teacher and a questioning look from her friend.

"Padme." Qui-Gon said quietly, grasping her arm. The girl struggled to keep her eyes open; she was exhausted. "Tell me."

"I." she sighed heavily, "I think that I mended your rib, Jedi, and the muscle."

Obi-Wan grimaced, and met his Master's eyes. They had discussed this possible course for her study previously. But neither one had expected her to immediately accomplish the task. Qui-Gon nodded solemnly, holding her arm tighter. "How do you feel, young one?"

She opened her eyes to meet Ben's and then smiled. "Tired, Qui-Gon, so very tired."

"Exertion. It takes most of your energy to accomplish something like that, Padme. You should store up energy before you heal someone." Qui-Gon sighed, moving his abdominal muscles. "But I feel that you did accomplish the task, young one. That was very good."

The girl smiled and moved away to sit on the cushion. Ben turned to Qui-Gon to shrug his shoulders. "She does have her talents, Master."

"That she does. But practice makes the effort perfect, Padawan." Qui-Gon gingerly rose to a seated position. "We must dry the clothes. They will do us no good soaked and the temperature is going to drop soon. How many blankets did you say we had?"

"Three, Master, and two sleep cushions. And there are the cloaks."

"Good. That should be enough. Although, I think that we will have to huddle together. Padme is still in a light state of shock; her body will need warmth. The comlink's voice portion is dead from the water. I have tried to touch the captain's mind to alert him. He seems to have received the message, and will try to follow the homing beacon in the comlink."

Obi-Wan was already standing and removing his tunic. "I will find a way to lay these clothes out with the sabre near to dry them."

Qui-Gon called to Padme who was already watching the younger man warily. "Draca, remove your tunic and give it to Obi-Wan. Keep your pants, though. Take off your boots and place them where he shows you."

"My clothes, Master?" Padme turned from the men to untie the tunic.

Her small voice made Qui-Gon stop his actions of removing his own clothing. He grabbed at Obi-Wan's arm and nodded toward a blanket. The apprentice took the hint and handed the covering to the girl. Although she would only be missing her outer layer and would still be in a sleeveless shift, her royal upbringing had created a feeling of modesty about her unclad self. Padme dropped her tunic, and wrapped in the blanket. Her boots came off quickly, and were thrown to Obi-Wan who caught them with the Force and laid them down next to his own.

Qui-Gon sighed with nonbelief and shook his head, "Children."

The darkness of the Oceanian night fell quickly as the three companions huddled on the cushions. They sat in a semi-circle facing each other. The girl was leaning slightly forward, bent at the waist; nodding off and then jerking awake. All three shivered with regularity.

Obi-Wan rose and checked the clothing, returning with a frown. "The damp air is making it hard for the material to dry; I think it will be morning before we can wear them again."

"Such is the way of things, Padawan." The elder man nodded toward Padme, who slept fitfully, and shivered at the same time. "She is doing better, I think, tonight. She will need rest."

Obi-Wan smiled. "It was quite a bit of testing for one so young, Master. I would be exhausted if I were her age again."

The Master nodded knowingly and motioned toward the sabre. "Regardless of the status of the clothes, young Obi-Wan, we should bring the sabre here. Our protection is more important. And we should sleep."

"Sleep?" The younger man was incredulous. "Master."

"The Force will warn us as to invaders, Padawan." Qui-Gon moved to the cloaks and laid his out on the cushion. Obi-Wan followed his actions, laying his out also so that they overlapped. Both men stopped and looked at Padme, wrapped in her blanket and appearing very young.

"Master?"

Qui-Gon sighed, not for the first time wondering why he had not fought with the council about the life- debt. "Place her between us, Obi-Wan. She is too small to generate her own heat. Padme!" he called loudly, jolting her from sleep. The girl's eyes raised to her teacher, blurry and unfocused. Her exhausted mind could not interpret the feelings and clues that the Force was sending her, so she just sat. The elder Jedi tilted his head to the side with a questioning gaze and shook his head with pain. The girl was simply too bodily exhausted from her earlier ordeal and with her healing of him that she was unable to consciously move or make a decision. He moved gently to her and picked her body up effortlessly. Obi-Wan watched the turn of events with a questioning look as he began to gather the blankets and the sabre from their places. His Master nodded over Padme's head, tucked into his shoulder. "She is very weakened, Padawan. I think we pushed her beyond her limits today."

He set the girl down with her head on the folded survival pack. As he sat next to her, he watched his younger friend pull the blankets over to the trio. "The ship will try and arrive tomorrow. To allow time to elapse so the Oceanians will not follow and interrupt their approach."

"What of the plan that they had for us, Master?" Obi-Wan sat next to Padme on the other side, pulling the blanket over his lap and her body. "This was an unusually bold action for them towards off-worlders, don't you think? I feel that there was something else behind the plan."

"I agree, Padawan, I agree." Qui-Gon stretched his body out next to Padme. "There is something else afoot here, I can feel it. But there is no direction to the feeling, just its existence." He groaned lightly as he stretched his sore flank muscle. Obi-Wan had already lain on his side, facing his Master across Padme's still form. Their eyes met and fell to the girl between them. Without a question, Obi-Wan's arm fell to encircle Padme's waist and pulled her close to his chest. Qui-Gon lay fully on the cushion and watched as Padme silently, and unconsciously, fought Obi-Wan's grip. She squirmed until he released his grip. Ben's eyes opened questioningly and looked at his master. Padme inched across the small space until she was in contact with Qui-Gon's side. The elder man lifted his arm and allowed the girl to move fully against his flank, and settled it back down around her shoulder and back. He shook his head at Obi-Wan. "I don't know, Obi-Wan, I cannot sense what it is that she finds so unquieting about you." He whispered.

"Or so appealing about you." Obi-Wan whispered back.

"No," Qui-Gon answered, "there is no pull of her towards me. I think that she just finds my spirit more in tune with hers. But, she has overcome her fear of you when she is conscious; in fact, I think that she is even fond of you. But when her defenses are down, she seems to automatically drift away from you."

"I will double my efforts at making her feel at ease, Master." Obi-Wan added, moving to touch the girl's side to close the circle of warmth. The trio remained quiet, until Padme began to shiver.

Qui-Gon reached further down, curling his arm around her waist and lifted her slightly so that she was completely lined against his body. Obi-Wan moved in unison with the girl and they became a mass of entwined arms and legs. As Obi-Wan's arm fell around Padme in his sleep, she began to murmur in protest.

Qui-Gon closed his eyes in slight pain, as he felt her fear. The fear was blinding in her mind, for some reason, and even as her soul fought to control the fear, he could feel that it was not directed at Obi-Wan, but rather someone similar to him, of the same age. Night fears of a young girl, was what he was experiencing through her mind. As she became more forceful in her movements, Qui-Gon moved onto his side and pulled the girl into an embrace. This displaced Obi-Wan's sleepy hand and the girl quieted almost immediately. Qui-Gon encouraged the change with a sigh and murmured entreaties of the girl to relax. "Peace, little one, no one will hurt you here."

He was surprised to have an answer from the girl as her arm encircled his waist. "Master, why do I react like that towards him? He is a good friend and a proper Jedi; I don't understand why when I'm tired I need to stay away from him."

He shook his head and then replaced her face into the crook of his neck. "I do not know, Padme. This is only something that you can find within yourself and fix. Was it something from your childhood?"

Padme was quiet as her other hand curled on the man's chest. She breathed easily, and deeply. "Sometimes I see myself in the room that I shared with Sade in the Grand House.I see darkness. billowing gauze at the window.the smell of the flowers in bloom.and then." her hand curled about his neck as she shivered. "Pain.anguish.the face of a young man that my father employed.. And then nothing, my mother."

Qui-Gon was silent as she breathed deeply before continuing. "I think that I know.Master, but.."

"You have buried the pain and the memory." He added quietly, sensing her need to pull back and see his eyes. "Your Jedi abilities have helped to bury it deeply. We should work on uncovering them, but not now, not here. We need a safe, comforting place."

"Was I..?"

Qui-Gon pulled his other arm from her waist to silence her. "Don't think, young one. Let the thought go, do not dwell on it."

"But."

"Padme, listen to me. Relax." Her teacher removed his hand from her mouth and placed it back around her waist. "Uncovering it here would only cause the deepest of problems. I cannot distance you from Obi- Wan, you need his heat as well as mine."

"Yes, Master." She was silent as the darkness was broken only by drips from the nearby wall. "I cannot be against him, though, it causes fear in my soul."

Qui-Gon pulled her fully into a tight embrace, allowing her hands to land on his bare chest. Her eyes searched his as he gazed at her. "Then draw comfort from me."

She nodded solemnly, burying her head in the crook of his neck. Sighing in comfort, she curled her hands on his chest. His long brown hair tickled her face where it was and she smiled from the feeling. The bristles of his beard, as close cropped as it was, were soft and warm. She knew that his blue eyes were closed and that he rested his head on the side of hers in affection. The feeling that she felt was warmth and comfort. Minutes past as their breathing drew deeper. "I am comforted by you, Master. You have a kind spirit."

The elder man nodded, placing his mouth next to her ear. "And you a very troublesome one, I fear." At her small laugh, he continued. "Why I let you talk me into allowing you to accompany us is beyond my comprehension."

"I used logic." She answered sleepily. She burrowed her face into his upper chest. Silence again enshrouded them until she moved to turn her face toward his again. Her mouth was turned in a fashion that he had come to associate with thought. "Master?"

"Yes, Padme."

"What is your birth name?"

Now, that is a strange question, he thought. He shifted his arms to jostle her closer, "Why do you ask?"

"I was thinking about Ben.about Obi-Wan. The Jedi Padawan learner takes such as name when they enter the order don't they? Upon completion of the trials, they have the right to change their name again. Why didn't you?"

"This is not something that a student asks their Master, Draca." He admonished.

"Why have you not changed my name?"

"Padme fits you. It means `tiny one' in Naboodian. I was with your father when he named you. Obi-Wan means `one with fire' in ancient Jedi. That name fits him, though I must admit that Ben does also. That I allow you to call him that is a gift, Padme, and not the normal way of things."

"But." she sighed as a rumbled laugh came from his chest and warmed her. She lifted her head to see her Master's eyes. "You avoid the question. Why did you not change your name back?"

He became silent as her eyes bore into his. In the faded light from reflected moons on the water, her deep brown eyes appeared endless to him. Her face was very pale, both from the lighting and from shock; her lips were parted and a light breath fell from them. Qui-Gon felt a pang in his heart as he cradled her. "Are you warm? How are you feeling?"

"You tell me, Master Jedi." She said lightly. "As you say, `it is the way of things that a Jedi can see through others.'" She smiled gently. He returned the smile warmly and closed his eyes. "But you aren't reading me are you?"

He shook his head and she answered. "I am fine, I think. A little disembodied, a little light headed. But good, fine." She pulled her head back to meet his eyes again. "But, sir, you are avoiding the question."

He lifted a hand to lay on her hair. "My name is Lianim. In my native language it means.."

"It means `forgotten one'" Padme noted. "Your native language is Naboodian, isn't it Qui-Gon?"

He nodded. "Now you know why I left my name Qui-Gon."

"And what does that mean?"

" `One who goes with peace'."

She was silent as he stroked her hair. "Shouldn't be `one who admonishes freely'?" When Obi-Wan snorted a laugh, she smiled the apprentice. "Your name does suit you, though, Qui-Gon."

"Thank you." His whisper was low in the darkness. "How did you know that my home world is.."

"Naboo." She finished with a slight shrug. "I guess I've just always known. But you don't consider it your home, do you?"

"No. I have not known Naboo as my home. I was taken to Corsucant when I was less than a season old. The Jedi Council and the building have been my only family and home." He laughed quietly at her look of pity and sighed. "Young Padme, do not look so sad. I have had a good life. Those with whom I studied, my master, and my Padawan are my father, brother and son, as well as my friends. It is a close tie that we form amongst ourselves."

"I have another question, Master."

Qui-Gon shifted his arms and sighed. "If you insist on talking, Draca, call me Qui-Gon."

Padme nodded gently and moved her hands so that they braced against his chest. "I do not know if this question is acceptable to ask."

"You will ask anyway, Padme. Your stubborn nature dictates it, I think. Ask away."

"Is it.acceptable.for a Jedi to take a mate?"

Qui-Gon's breathing stopped for a moment before continuing deeper. "That is a funny question to ask, young one. What is the purpose behind it?"

"You mean you are not reading my mind?" she joked. When her Master did not join in her joke, she straightened her spine. "I wonder why Obi-Wan has not looked for a mate. I wonder what is in store for me. Plain reasons, Qui-Gon."

"Obi-Wan has not finished his training and therefore is not available to search for a life-mate. You, Padme, will never take the trials and therefore will never be held to that same structure. Besides, on your 21st season anniversary, you will be brought before the Naboo council and a decision will be made as to your status. Jedi." he sighed. "Jedi are able to take mates, Padme. It is not forbidden, at least not in most cases."

"Your case is different."

"Yes," his voice was different sounding, deeper, more hoarse. "When I took the trials, my master informed me that the council had foreseen the future and that I was never to search for a mate, never to father children." He turned his face toward hers. "It is an edict that I cannot ignore; it is punishable by removal of my title." He cleared his throat. "No more questions tonight, Padme, please."

"You could choose not to answer them, Master." At his chagrined glance, she looked down. "It is just that I know so little about you. Obi-Wan and I have talked about things previously, but never you.and your defenses are lowered here. I have wondered since I became your indebted one what kind of man you are, from where you came."

"A carry-over from your royal upbringing, I suspect. Ever the diplomat.what is the saying? Know thine enemies as your friends?"

"And know your friends as yourself." She added, reaching a small hand to bury in his hair. "Do not judge me for this, please."

"Never." He pulled the blanket closer around her, "But we need sleep, Padme. I must ask you to stop your questioning. If you have questions at another time, I will answer them; never worry that I will not. All that I ask is that you give me respect as your teacher and use discretion in the type of questions that you ask. And we must work on your breathing exercises."

"Yes, teacher." She yawned as she lay back against his arm. "Peace."

"And peace to you." He added quietly. As the girl drifted off to sleep, Qui-Gon remained awake. His spirit was troubled with many things- the attack on them, the powers behind it, and the ill-timed questions of his charge. Patience, he decided, was the only way to handle the problems. Those against them would eventually show themselves. As for Padme, and her interest in his life. well, he thought kindly, it was in her nature to care deeply for those that she felt responsible- whether they were her subjects, her family or her friends. But this occurrence only doubled his want to train her to her fullest abilities. As he thought of the next steps he needed to take in her training, she sighed in her sleep and he found himself kissing her forehead in reassurance. As the course of his action became clear in his mind, he stopped and pulled back to look at the girl.

The peaceful, angelic look on her face caused a pang in his heart. He felt that this girl was special to him. Recently, he had decided that she was someone that he could call friend, as possibly, her father might have wanted him to treat her. He had known Brace well; had called him friend. And that he was caring for his daughter only cemented the friendship even after the other had passed on in death. But the way that she affected his judgment on the way that he used and was used by the Force, Qui-Gon could not feel well about. Like, he told himself, the way that you are here holding her to comfort instead of telegraphing feelings of support as you were taught to do. He shook his head with a sigh.

There was something about this girl. Something special. It wasn't just her abilities and talents in the Force, which were considerable and could easily become something powerful if honed correctly. Likewise, he thought, it wasn't her beauty. She was uncommonly pretty, with her pale skin and dark, dark hair. Her brown eyes seemed to look through you and her stature and bearing gave an illusion of height, even though she was very petite. Nor, was it her intelligence, although it was formidable. No, he decided, it was everything together and not any one thing. His arms pulled her closer to his chest with a smile that widened into a grin when she murmured his name and allowed the embrace. She was special to him. And the thought both cheered him and saddened him.

Chapter 8: The Pain of Winning.

On the defensive, no one wins; it is simply to keep from losing. On the offense all lose, as in the winning something must be sacrificed. It is when those that battle use the Force and allow its ordained conclusion, that all win.

- Jedi Sword Manual, Chapt 1, p. 4.

Senator Palpatine remained aloof as the vote commenced in the senate chamber. His name was on the list for those being considered for the vacating Supreme Chancellor position. It seemed that the vote was pulling in his favor, as many that might have voted for Bail Antilles of Alderaan, had after rounds of debates, turned into his camp. In his mind, it was only a matter of time until his true plans could come to fruition. In the spectator area of the Senate chamber, he could sense that his apprentice stood ready to leave to begin the preordained plan upon the announcement of Palpatine's election.

Far below the towering, sometimes inhuman, spires of the planet-city, Corsucant, there existed a new type of technology. The technology dealt with the most precious type of matter in the Universe, life itself, and the ability to copy it perfectly. An army of vast numbers. An army that would be indefeatable, and completely replaceable. Palpatine's apprentice, Darth Maul, was to descend into the depths of Corsucant immediately following the election to begin the final stages of the production. It was on Darth Maul's genetic code that the warriors were based, creating a humanoid with incredible ability to channel and use the Force.

Palpatine's thoughts changed to think about the tiny planet of Naboo that had made all of this possible. His position, the call for the vote, the ease with which he moved through the ranks were all owed to his home planet. He had hoped that upon his election to use Naboo as the capital, but its position on the outside of the galaxy made the move not a good one. But that could be dealt with after his plan worked. Ah yes, he thought, a plan with a two edged blade; one, to place himself in power and strengthen the Republic under one solid rule using the Force as a driving point, and two, to defeat and crush the Jedi. After all, it was not advisable to allow the order to flourish if they would only serve to fight against him. Besides, the fools only served the Light side of the Force, not willing to feel the full power that the Dark side offered. He had no time for those that chose to remain willingly ignorant. No, a central empire under his rule would be strong and united, ending all of these squabbling feuds.

The lights in the practice room on the Republic 7 was darkened to allow those within to not be assaulted by external stimuli, but still provided ample lighting to see. Qui-Gon's eyes had long since adjusted to the darkness, and he watched his two students closely. The orders that he had given to the tow of them had consisted of one, no bloodshed, and two, use as many of the skills as they could that they had learned. So far, the results had been surprising. The two were at a draw. Neither one would win more than one duel with the other, before the other would defeat the winner the next round. It was something that he had not expected: Padme to keep even with Obi-Wan. He watched as the former leapt high into the air, performing a perfect flip with a half-twist, keeping her sabre within parry length of the opponent. Obi- Wan swung as soon as the girl had hit the ground and the swing was deflected.

The girl's practice shirt slid up in the front as she leapt into the air doing a back flip. Qui-Gon found his eyes locked on the girl's torso as the material crept up her skin. He quickly shook his head as if to clear it as the material shifted again, falling lower. His soft curse at himself for his weakness echoed in the small room. Such as it had been for the last four standard lunar cycles, he found himself wondering about the girl as she became a woman in front of his eyes. He hoped to clear his mind of her by keeping her on the ship while Obi-Wan and he went on their various diplomatic missions. But he found the distance confusing him even more.

A beep from the wall drew his attention and he listened attentively to the voice on the other end informing him that they were approaching Alderaan. Qui-Gon voiced his ascension and with a final look at his two charges, left for the bridge.

As the door shut behind him, the two apprentices escalated their play. As Padme swung her sabre in a low arc toward Obi-Wan, a box from the side flew at her feet. Without looking, she jumped and swung her sabre at the same time. A shirt that Obi-Wan had brought in with him was suddenly flung at his face before Padme landed. The combination of the three occurrences created enough of a diversion that she soon had Obi-Wan without his weapon. When he pulled the shirt from his face, Padme stood in front of him with a sabre in his face. "Do you yield?" she asked, placing a hand on her waist.

"This round." He murmured, wiping his brow with the cloth. She reached down to pull him up and was caught off balance as he pulled her down next to him. "Would you sit for just a moment?" he asked irritably.

Padme laughed as she shut off her sabre and got comfortable against the wall behind her. Her tank shirt that Obi-Wan had lent her, and the baggy pants that she always wore when practicing were soaked with sweat. She felt the exhaustion in her limbs, and had been aware of its presence for some time, but her mind controlled her need for rest by relying on the Force for strength. She sighed as she pulled at the gathering of hair on the back of her head. "We should start again soon."

"He has left, Padme. We can rest for a moment." Obi-Wan leaned back on his elbows. " We have been at this for 3 kiloparsecs, you know. Any real fight that would take this long would be a draw and we would need to retreat."

"I know, but I like being tested, Ben."

"Have pity on me, Padme." Obi-Wan grinned. "I am your superior in age, you know."

"Only by ten seasons." She stated cheekily.

"Quiet, urchin." He added with a smile. "Qui-Gon is impressed with you."

"Why? I had most of these skills in the battle arts before I came into contact with the two of you."

"But you have honed them, Padme. It is a credit that you are able to do all that you do. Qui-Gon knows this."

"Good, then he should let me accompany you next planet fall." She sighed leaning back to stare at the ceiling.

"He is protecting you, Padme." Obi-Wan answered quietly. "He does know that you need to use your skills, but he knows that he has to protect you. I feel confusion in him."

"It must be from that last mission that I accompanied the two of you- Oceanius." Padme sighed. "That was four standard lunar cycles ago, though. I know that I feel the confusion in him, too. And I don't know what to do to alleviate it."

"Keep performing like this and he will have no argument to keep you away." Obi-Wan looked at her out of the corner of his eye.

Padme was quiet for a moment before slowly standing to her feet. "Ben, do we have any other droids to fight against, here? That way I can give you a rest and I can practice."

Obi-Wan nodded and pulled his wrist comlink out. After pushing several buttons, he lowered his hand. "It will be here in a moment, Padme."

Padme stretched. Balancing herself on one leg, she grabbed the other behind her head. Obi-Wan grinned as if he knew something that she didn't. "What?" she asked, testily.

"The droid is going to be hard for you, but I think you will like it." He answered, gathering his materials; "I'll go into the observation area, call if you need anything."

Padme nodded and began other exercises. The door behind her opened and shut as the droid entered into the room. She slowly turned to face her new opponent, and that was when the seven hells of Naboo broke loose.

Qui-Gon was half way back to the practice room when he heard a blood-curdling scream. Instantly, he recognized the voice as Padme's, although the pain and panic in it was almost inhuman. He immediately tried to search her mind, as he took the last corner towards the practice room at a dead sprint. He did not know what to expect when the door opened, but he did know that Obi-Wan standing one meter away from her with his sabre lit and standing at ready against an unknown attacker was definitely not it.

"Padawan." Qui-Gon's terse shout came as he entered the room.

"I do not know, Master." Obi-Wan's eyes were wide. "I have seen no one."

Qui-Gon approached Padme, huddled on the floor with her sabre lit in her small hand. As he neared, the girl began to blindly swing the weapon. It was a panicky, jerky movement aimed at hurting not protecting. It prevented him from getting to her.

"Padme." He said, quietly. "Draca, what is it?"

"Stay away." She growled. "Stay away or I'll send you back from where you came in pieces."

Qui-Gon looked to Obi-Wan who shrugged. The elder man nodded towards her weapon and Obi-Wan instantly knew what he was expected to do. The younger Jedi approached the girl quickly, engaging her weapon with his own, fighting back her graceless swings. Obi-Wan, even with his years of experience over her was hard pressed to keep her under control. However, when the girl's wrist extended to its full distance, Qui-Gon used the Force to pluck the sabre from her grasp. Once it was safely in his hand, he flicked it off. Silence replaced the hissing of the sabres, though, as Qui-Gon finally neared the girl he could hear her whispering to herself.

"Father. Father. Father. Father." Padme was shaking with each word that was uttered.

Qui-Gon knelt in front of the girl, silently assessing her state. Tears fell from her wide, unblinking brown eyes; her face was flushed, reddened with horror. He could not read her, he couldn't get at her mind, because the pain was so intense. All he could gather was that she was experiencing some form of severe mental anguish. Obi-Wan could, from what the elder Jedi saw, feel the pain also, as the younger man gasped.

Obi-Wan approached his friend and mentor and laid a hand on his arm. Qui-Gon shook his head, "No, Padawan, I don't know what it is that bothers her so. I feel pain, as you do?" When the younger man nodded, he continued. "We will have to calm her and find out what is wrong. Any suggestions?"

Obi-Wan gaped at his Master. "We cannot reach her mind?" Before Qui-Gon could answer, he continued. "No, I know that we cannot. She is so crazed at the moment; it would be impossible to get her to calm down with only a touch, also. I don't know."

The other man was silent for a moment, studying his friend. With a shake of his head that sent his graying hair twisting on his neck, he uttered: " I don't either, my young friend. Let's let her tell us what it is she needs."

Obi-Wan sat down on one side of the girl, while Qui-Gon eased to the floor directly in front of her. With gentle care, he raised his hand to stroke her hair. At first, Padme fought his caresses, struggling to rise. He held her shoulders easily, as the sorrow and the exhaustion from many hours of practicing had made her pliable. Once she settled, he lifted her chin with his finger, cupping it in his palm as the youthful face rose to meet his. "Padme?" he asked gently.

She was silent. Her stare seemed to look through him, as though he did not exist.

He gripped her chin a little harder, tilting his face down to meet her eyes more fully. "Padme." When she continued to be silent, he said louder. "Come, Draca, is that any way to treat your teacher?"

Her eyes flickered and then she turned her head a little. "Master?"

"That's it, Padme." Qui-Gon sat forward. He knew that her response to his question was an ingrained response to his reprimanding her. "What is my name?"

Her full lips were not closed as she sat there looking at him. He could feel the coolness of her tears as they fell on his hand. She opened and closed her mouth silently and whispered, "Master."

"No, Padme." His voice grew deeper. "Not my title. Who am I? What is my name?"

"Master," Obi-Wan, asked quietly, "Why are you."

"She needs to be grounded. I cannot help her if she cannot connect with me." Qui-Gon answered, quietly as he met his student's eyes. "Padme?"

"Qui-Gon." The whisper was so low, that neither man heard it clearly. But it was progress.

"Yes, Padme." He sighed. "That's right. Qui-Gon."

Her tears began to fall harder. "Qui-Gon.I'm sorry."

"Sorry? Whatever for?" he asked, holding her chin with gentleness now. "Why are you sorry?"

"My training.Obi-Wan.feelings."

Qui-Gon hung his head. "We will deal with that later, little one. But we need to deal with this now. Can you tell me."

She began to shake her head violently, fighting to remove herself from his hand. "No, I. No! I won't. I can't. I."

"Listen, shh." Qui-Gon sat forward to get directly into her face. "Quiet now. Nothing can hurt you. You can, Padme."

She laughed maniacally through her tears, allowing Obi-Wan if not Qui-Gon to sigh with relief. She was coming back to herself. "No, Master..I do not think that I can tell you. The images are so.they are jumbled; I only recall parts not the whole."

"I can help you." He sighed lowly. "We can.join, it's called dreamsharing. I can see your images and your feelings."

"I don't want to relive it, Qui-Gon." She said quietly resting her hand on his under her chin. "I cannot remember it clearly now, but I know that I do not want to relive it. It's that time.the time with.why I can't.Obi-Wan.."

"I know." Obi-Wan spoke quietly, allowing Padme to turn and look at him.

"There is so much pain," she said, splitting her time between both men, "If I buried it the first time, I do not want."

Padme fell silent as Qui-Gon anchored her face toward his. "You must find these memories, Padme. You must confront them. If you don't, the pain and the anger will only grow and I would fear for your ability to remain on this path. Once you leave this path, neither Obi-Wan, nor I, nor Mace, for that matter, can help you to return." She seemed wavering, so he tilted his forehead against hers and met her eyes. "I'll be there with you, Padme. I promise."

Obi-Wan nodded, "We'll both be there."

Padme sighed and nodded hesitantly, "Yes, all right, I'll do as you say, Qui-Gon. Help me to find these memories."