A Little Ray of Light
Part 2
Slowly, she opened her eyes. She blinked and attempted to recall what had happened to her. Without success. She found herself sprawled on the ice cold ground, leaning slightly to her left side. She tried to raise her head to look around, but it throbbed unmercifully, forcing her eyes to close in pain as she lay back down.
As she shifted, she became aware that her aching head was pillowed by her left arm, and that her remaining arm rested over a small, unmoving form that snugged against her. Re-opening her tired eyes once again, she groaned as her surroundings appeared to swirl around her in slow motion. The images flashing in front of her were blurry and confusing, only lights and shadows being distinguishable. She lifted her gaze skyward, dully noting that a fluffy blanket of dark-gray clouds were covering the usually clear blue sky.
A faint smile crept across her trembling lips as she recalled the numerous times that she and her infant son had sat and watched the beautiful dawns and sunsets that had painted that same sky. As she continued to look at the mournful sadness of the sky above her, her eyelids fluttered momentarily before closing again. Slowly, reluctantly, she gave herself to a deep and peaceful sleep that gently tugged at her. A sleep she knew she would not be waking. Her entire being was slowly relaxing. She felt a strange peace surround her as her remaining strength began to take flight like a small bird, a bird finally given its freedom. Her head lolled forward as her body
arranged itself into a fetal position. As she felt herself descend into the depths of a peaceful oblivion, she heard a faint, choked moan. Forcing her already unresponsive eye to open one last time, she looked down to see the small, huddled form of her son curled against her.
Obi-Wan! Her breath suddenly quickened as a wave of joy and relief washed over her. Her little baby was still with her!
Weakly lifting an unsteady hand, she placed it over the downy, auburn-colored hair, lovingly stroking it with extreme care and tenderness. Her trembling fingers momentarily hesitated to touch it as her mind still doubted that this was true reality. As she gently stroked the so-soft locks of her baby, she felt a sticky wetness coat her fingers, and then frowned in dismay as she noticed the blood streaking across her baby's soft features. A wave of cold fear ran up her spine as the idea of her baby being injured shook her to her
core. As she tried to changed her position, she winced at the almost-forgotten pain searing her back.
Her small son couldn't be injured! Not her Obi-Wan!
"O-obi-Wan?" her voice trembled as it came out in a mere whisper.
She waited for an answer, remaining very, very still, afraid even to breathe. She noted that Obi-Wan's breathing appeared shallow and almost imperceptible. At the sound of her voice, the boy's respiration quickened, and the whirring wheeze returned again. His small, tortured lungs appeared to be failing as they struggled to take in oxygen. And this scared Saari to no end.
Again, she called out, "Sweety?"
The small child stirred, as if battling against unconsciousness. Was his mommy calling for him? He was certain he had heard her voice, but he was still unsure. He began to drift off once again, his young, weary mind unable to remain awake for too long. But, he was suddenly brought back from the dark comfort of sleep when he again heard his mom's worried voice. "Obi-Wan, you have a beautiful pair of eyes...please, let mommy see them." He was unable to resist that sorrowful and choked plea. With great effort, he opened his eyes and very slowly turned his gaze to his mom's worried face.
Saari choked back a sob. The boy's eyes were glazed and looked so exhausted. They looked lifeless, dull and lacked their normal sparkle.
Obi-Wan blinked and a small flicker of a smile crossed his tiny, pink lips. Lips that the cold was already turning blue. His mom was still there, watching him, holding him. Feeling safe once again, the diminutive child began responding to the intense fatigue that threatened to pull him down into unconsciousness. But, he bravely struggled against it as his mother's voice once again called him back.
"No, Obi-Wan, please! Don't close...close them...let m-mommy look at
them...one last time..." Saari gasped in pain. It was getting very
difficult to breathe now. She knew her time was running out, as well as the air. Her voice was interrupted repeatedly as piercing waves of pain increased every minute, turning her breath into sharp hisses. But looking down at her son, her pain seemed to lessen. Her chin quivered as she began losing herself in depths of the blue-green gems that were her son's eyes. Tears fell from her eyes as she told herself that her little baby was not supposed to be here. He should be sleeping in a warm, comfortable bed, not here in the middle of a cold forest. But she was unable to help him. She had failed him.
Using the last of her strength, the young, exhausted mother held her precious bundle closer, kissing the baby's silky hair with a faint brush of her lips. Murmuring softly into Obi-Wan's hair, she whispered, "I'm afraid mommy will have to go after all, sweety."
"No mommy...!" she heard the muffled, feeble protest.
Lovingly looking at her beautiful son one last time, she reluctantly closed her eyes. "I don't want to go...but I have to, dear."
"Wanna go wis' you."
"No! No, you can't come with me...you are too small, sweety...too small." Saari gently squeezed the frail body under her right arm, "You have to...to be awake, Obi-Wan...don't fall asleep...," her voice began trailing off, "Please..."
"'Kay, mommy...," the little boy whispered obediently, nodding slowly.
Saari smiled dreamily, her breathing slowing as warm, soft numbness began blanketing her mind. Her baby was such a good little boy. He had not questioned her request, not even when he did not understand what was happening around them.
"I love you...," she quietly breathed in soft, dulcet tones, "I love you, my little ray of light."
Obi-Wan smiled again. He felt happy whenever his mommy called him that. It made him feel safe, warm, loved. The little boy knew that when his mom called him this, she meant that she was very happy and content. It had been a long time since he had felt his mom feel this way.
Closing his eyes for a moment, he listened contentedly to the soothing
beating of his mother's heart, burrowing deeper against her light tunics as he held his ear closer to her body. The sound of his mother's heartbeat had always given him a feeling of warmth, love, and comfort.
He cuddled closer as he began to notice that the comforting sound was
beginning to fading away. His small hands grasped at her tunics as the sound slowed, little by little, becoming faint with every beat.
Until it stopped.
*******
Qui-Gon Jinn and Mace Windu, Masters of the Jedi Order, ran at Force-enhanced speed through the forest, deftly avoiding the rain of blaster fire coming at them from behind. The ground gave a tremendous shake as a large energy blast exploded beside them, throwing the both to the ground.
"We are not getting anywhere like this, Mace," Qui-Gon said as they both quickly crawled, seeking to find any available shelter.
Windu's head jerked up as his senses alerted him of danger and, pulling Qui-Gon with him along the ground, avoided being hit by a missile that passed, hissing angrily over their heads.
Jinn carefully lifted his head, watching how as the projectile exploded against a large tree. His momentary relieved expression changed dramatically as he realized that the colossal tree was falling in their direction.
"Mace!" he shouted as he rolled over several times, covering several meters, narrowly escaping the deadly impact.
As soon as Qui-Gon felt the ground ceasing to tremble, he carefully stood and began calling to his friend, "Mace! Are you all right?"
He waited for what appeared to be endless moments, unable to hear any
response from the other Master. A dreadful feeling began to fill him as a sudden, somber idea crossed his mind. But he quickly pushed it away as he called to the Councilmember one more time.
"Mace!!"
"Qui?"
"Mace!" Qui-Gon shouted back, relieved to hear his friend's voice responding from the other side of a huge tree.
"Qui! You okay?" he heard Windu shout excitedly.
"Yes! Mace, we need to get to a transport that can get us out of here!"
"That's a nice idea, Qui, but how do you expect to do that?" the Jedi Master heard his friend's laughing voice, and smiled.
"I don't know, Mace. See if you can find anything from your side, and try to keep your butt alive!"
Mace laughed and his voice faded as he began to jogging away from the
location. "That goes for you too, buddy!"
Qui-Gon laughed as well. Turning around, his smile faded and a look of deep concentration replaced it as he reached out for the Force to scan his surroundings. His side of the forest was quite clear, except for some of the few standing droids that had previously been chasing them. But, luckily, they were retreating, apparently believing that the tree had eliminated the Jedi.
/Jedi don't believe in luck,/ he told himself, lightly amused. He turned and began jogging in the opposite direction, his hand lightly placed over his lightsaber's hilt.
******
After a few moments of jogging at a clipped pace, Qui-Gon finally reached the outskirts of the city. As he exited the well marked tree line, he noticed that a large expanse of snow covered rocks and stones was the only thing that stood between him and a tall fence bordering the outskirts of the city. Traversing that distance would make anyone an easy target.
Hiding himself behind a large tree, Qui-Gon surveyed both the area and his options. He had to find a way to get to the fence without being seen. At first, the area appeared deserted - no guards, no droids, nothing. His eyes came to rest on a dark, oblong spot staining the green grass, giving it a strange hue. The Master stared as small crimson flecks of light reflected back at him. Qui-Gon frowned, unsure what he was seeing.
The Master once more looked at his surroundings, the strange eerie quiet sending shivers down his spine. It appeared too peaceful. He knew that even with no one sight, both guards and droids were probably in the area and well hidden. Once more reaching out to the Force, Qui-Gon confirmed his theory. There were about thirty humanoid-looking guards with approximately sixty droids strategically hidden and surveying the area. That was going complicate matters..
As he continued to observe the situation, a sudden sense of danger came through the Force, making him crouch farther down along the ground. Soon, a loud throbbing of engines could be heard as the sky began filling with a fleet of droid-driven STAP vehicles. They actively searched the area for any living thing.
Keeping very still, Qui-Gon watched as the droid heads poked out from their machines, scanning the area for any movement. Fortunately, his dark brown robe blended well with the colours of the forest, effectively camouflaging him. Placing the hood over his head, he erected a light Force-shield, further blending him into the forest, making him practically invisible.
After the fleet had passed, he slid stealthily from tree to tree, crouching and searching for any cover that would allow him to reach the fence unnoticed. The Master knew that once there, it would be easy for him to breach it and enter the limits of the city.
After carefully traversing a few meters, he scrutinized the land before him, both visually and with the Force. A small smile crept across his lips when he found no guard presence anywhere within the immediate area. He quickly sent a Force-thought to Mace, notifying him of his findings. After a few seconds, Mace responded, acknowledging both the message and its content. Even if the area did feel empty, he did not intend to take any chances with their safety.
Qui-Gon looked up at the clouded sky, grateful that it gave him a small advantage. If it had been sunny, he would have been forced to use tree shadows as cover in order to mask his movements. The dark clouds suffused the morning light, sufficiently scattering shadows which were then made even darker by the forest canopy. It was not an ideal situation, but it would have to do.
Ensuring that he was well camouflaged, Qui-Gon slid gracefully between the alternating light and shadows. But, as he was about to reach the fence, he froze. A gentle pull through the Force attracted his attention to his right, his eyes alighting on what appeared to be a slight form lying on the ground. His deep blue eyes narrowed as his senses confirm what his eyes were seeing - that it was, indeed, a humanoid form lying on the ground. His eyes snapped wide open as he realized that not only was the form humanoid, but that it was also sending out a weak Force signature.
Briefly forgetting the droids, the guards and caution, he ran at top speed towards the fallen being. As he reached the huddled form, the Master was dismayed to see a large, black wound - possibly from a blaster - located neatly between the shoulder blades, scorching both clothes and flesh. The thin form undoubtedly belonged to that of a young woman.
Qui-Gon quickly rounded the still form, and slowly knelt in front of her, his long robe billowing smoothly behind him. She was a beautiful young lady. Her sweet, child-like features still appeared fresh, even though her face was pallid and cold to the touch. Her eyes were softly closed as if in gentle sleep, and a shadow of a smile could still be seen on her pale lips.
Carefully placing two fingers on the girl's delicate neck, Qui-Gon confirmed what he already knew, she no longer lived. But then, what was it that he had felt? What about that weak signature?
Stretching his senses once more, the Master touched the spark of life that had called to him. This time his attention was directed to a small bundle of ragged, blood-stained clothes, lying against the young woman's body. The woman's body half covered the bundle, protectively covered by a limp, fragile arm.
Gently lifting the lifeless limb, Qui-Gon gasped in shock as he lifted the blanket. A small, thin baby was lying on the cold ground, his face and hands pressed to the young woman's body, and almost completely covered in blood. At first, the Master was certain that the baby was dead, but then he heard a barely audible whimper, followed by soft, hoarse whispers. Bending forwards, he listened carefully as he made out the words to the soft murmuring.
"Mommy ... wake up ... wanna go 'ome ... mommy?"
Qui-Gon's heart contracted as he listened to the gentle and repeated plea. The little boy's voice, although hoarse and broken, sounded so full of hopeful innocence, almost willing his mommy to wake up. But the Master could also feel the exhaustion coming from the small voice as it struggled for breath..
Qui-Gon straightened and looked sadly at the girl for a brief moment, a beautiful life taken. Gently, he lifted the young woman's arm, reached under, removed the blanket and picked up the little bundle from the cold grass. The child was burning with fever, and he weighed so very little. He winced as he wondered just how many days the little boy had been without food or water. He quickly pushed the thought from his mind as he cradled the small being protectively against his chest, trying to warm it with his body. The Master quickly grabbed an end of his robe and wrapped the child which had now begun to shiver.
As worn out and confused as he was, a part of Obi-Wan knew that he was no longer near his mother, but couldn't find the strength to resist the two large arms that now held him. He allowed the stranger to hold him as he felt warmth and comfort surrounding him. He felt an enveloping peace radiating from the stranger's body, warming his soul, as he felt it begin to warm his shivering body. Surprisingly, he didn't feel threatened or in danger, just safe and protected. Just like home.
"Daddy?" a sudden, faint question broke the stillness.
Qui-Gon turned and looked down in surprise at the little boy. He wasn't sure whether the child was calling for his father or if he believe that Qui-Gon was his father. There was no time for him to try and explain to the little boy that he wasn't 'daddy', and decided instead to acknowledge the title, hoping that it would give the little boy some much needed comfort. "Yes, little one. I'm here. Don't worry, you're going to be okay now."
"'Kay, daddy...," Obi-Wan replied in a relieved whispered. Two tiny, fevered hands gripped at the Master's soft tunics and, in seconds, the little boy had fallen fast asleep.
Making sure that they could not be seen, the tall Jedi took a moment to look at the sleeping child that he held in his arms. He gently brushed a large thumb against a soft, fevered cheek, slowly wiping away some of the blood. He had held babies back in the Temple while assigned to Crèche duty, but he had never held such a small and fragile baby before. He had always been very careful with his small charges, taking pains not to move too quickly or watching where he stepped. He feared that with his great size and strength, he would somehow hurt or injure them in some way. He was always aware of just how small and fragile they were.
Qui-Gon smiled. "Small and fragile". This tiny baby had lived through a civil war, his mother's death, hunger, thirst, and other dangers in is short life, but still he had managed to survive. The Master bent his head in reverence over the sleeping form. The little body may be small and his appearance may look fragile, but this little being had the strength and spirit of a grown Jedi.
The tall Master gently rocked the sleeping child as he realized that holding something fragile didn't necessarily mean it would "break" under his care. He even began to feel a little relaxed as he watched over his small charge. As he looked at the soft features of the little boy, he felt a soothing calm surrounding him as the stress of the past few hours began to melt away.
As he continued to rock, Qui-Gon slowly became aware of a wheezing sound coming from the child. It sounded as if there were an obstruction within the child's chest, making him to gasp and fight for air. Shifting the little boy away from his body and carefully settling him on one arm, he gently placed a large hand over the tiny chest and began using the Force to search for anything out of place. The Master winced and drew in a sharp breath as he found the source of the obstruction. An infection had settled in both of the boy's lungs, possibly caused by an illness, which had been badly treated and
had spread. As a result, the small lungs were slowly shutting down. At least, Qui-Gon thought to himself, that would explain several things like the high fever, the hoarse voice, and the laboured breathing. But, he marveled at how this small baby had managed to survive in the freezing cold of the brutal winter, without so much as a shelter or regular sustenance.
Concentrating and slipping into a light meditative state, Qui-Gon began to pour some of his own strength into the weaken body, hoping to stem the infection before it did irreparable damage. As minutes passed, he felt the spread of the infection slowing its advance and he carefully began to repair the damage, just enough to keep the young lungs from completely shutting down. He continued to steadily pour his own Force-energy into the healing, mending damaged tissue and assisting the small body to heal itself. Moments later, a small smile crossed his lips as the wheezing began to slowly fade away and felt the child slip into a comfortable and peaceful sleep.
Certain that the child's medical state had stabilized, Qui-Gon turned back to take cover in the darkened forest. He knew that his journey and his objective to reach the fence was going to be a bit more complicated, now that he had a second life to protect. But he knew he would manage.
Qui-Gon was so busy concentrating on protecting the boy and breaching the fence, that he failed to notice a large, dark shadow approaching them from behind. The small boy began to stir and moaned softly in his arms. The movement brought him back from his reverie, allowing him to sense the presence approaching them. Remaining motionless, the Master quickly slid one hand inside his robe and unhooked his lightsaber from his utility belt. Holding the baby firmly in his left arm, he lifted his right arm free as he maneuvered the lightsaber into position.
Patiently, he waited; remaining motionless and stock still for whoever was behind him to get closer. When the Force told him to move, the Master turned and with a Force-push, threw the hooded stranger backwards. Quickly regaining his foothold, he ignited his lightsaber and held it protectively between himself and the threat.
The fallen, hooded figure sat up slowly, clearly in a daze. Qui-Gon
effortlessly assumed a defense stance, his emerald lightsaber glowing
impressively in front of them. The tall Master was about to step closer when he heard an angry but familiar voice coming from the fallen form, which was now holding a hand to its head.
"Qui-Gon, what the hell is wrong with you?!"
"Mace?"
"No, the Easter bunny! Of course it's me, Qui!" the Councilmember replied sarcastically as he struggled to his feet.
Qui-Gon laughed as he deactivated his 'saber and replaced it back on his belt, while still holding the small baby in his left arm. He checked on his fragile charge and noticed that he was still sleeping. Apparently, and miraculously enough, all the commotion had failed to wake him.
Mace watched in confusion as Qui-Gon appeared to murmur something into his left arm. Approaching the tall Master, Windu noticed two tiny, pink hands poking out from beneath the long, dark robe, gripping at his friend's tunics. With his eyes wide open in bewilderment, Mace looked at the tall Master, "Qui-Gon, what's that?"
Jinn looked up and, with a smile, let his friend see what was hidden under his robe. Mace's eyes went wider and he gasped in surprise when he found a small, one-year-old baby huddling comfortably against the Master's chest. In complete astonishment, Windu attempted to ask, "Whe-, How-, Wha-...?"
Qui-Gon chuckled and began to answer the unfinished questions. "I found him some minutes ago, over there, in the clearing. He was hidden under his mother's body."
"Is she...?"
"Yes," Qui-Gon answered solemnly. As he looked down at the sleeping form, he brushed away at a lock of slightly dampen, auburn-colored hair resting on the boy's brow. "He was trying to wake her up when I found them."
Mace's face turned from surprise to sadness. "Poor little thing," he
whispered as he gently stroked one of the tiny hands with the back of his fingers.
"We need to take him to the Temple, and quickly, Mace. He has an infection in his lungs that has to be treated by the Healers immediately. If not...," the Master's voice trailed off as he thought of the possibility of losing the little boy. Qui-Gon frowned. He would not allow that to happen.
"Yes," Mace nodded in agreement, "Let's get out of this place."
*******
Both Masters successfully breached the fence without incident. Both then headed in the direction of the nearest spaceport which, fortunately, was not hard to find. With the help of the Force, they managed to 'convince' a pilot to 'loan' them his space ship on a temporary basis, and in a matter of minutes both Masters and small charge were in the air.
As Mace set their ship's course for Coruscant, a small beep followed by a robotic voice sounded throughout the ship's intercom, taking both Masters by surprise.
"Identification, please."
Mace, who was piloting, looked back at Qui-Gon, half-expecting a clever idea to come from the tall Master.
Qui-Gon, who was standing behind Windu and slowly rocking the small baby in his arms, frowned. He tried to come up with credible response that would satisfy the droid's inquiry. If they didn't come up something quick, the droid would automatically alert a squad, and they would be attacked in seconds.
"Turn the shields up to maximum," Qui-Gon told Mace as he slid into the co-pilot's seat and began fastening the seat restraints around him, "And, of course, tell them that we'll miss them." he added, grinning sarcastically. He placed one restraint carefully around the child as he crossed his arms, further holding the little boy closely against his chest. If worst came to worst his body would serve as a shield to protect the child.
Mace grinned at his friend. That was the Qui-Gon that he knew. Strengthening the shields around their ship, he activated the communicator and responded. "This is KL 243-12 and we are leaving."
"KL 243-12, you don't have permission to leave the planet," the droid
answered while it checked its database for confirmation. "You must return to base immediately."
"Oh, don't worry, we promise to write every day," Windu grinned, cut the communication, and accelerated to top speed.
As Qui-Gon had predicted, a squad of at least ten small ships appeared behind them, forming a line and ready to shoot.
"Okay, Qui, hang on!"
Their ship shook and rocked as thin red blaster beams struck the shields. They just needed one additional minute before they could jump into hyperspace. The computer had been programmed and the calculations for the jump were set, but before Mace could do anything, their shield generator was hit.
"Damn! The generator!" Mace cursed under his breath as he checked his flight panel, which was now glowing with flashing red lights.
Qui-Gon checked on another screen and noticed how close the small ships were getting. "Forget about the generator, Mace! Get us outta here!" the Master urged his friend, a hint of concern tinting his firm voice.
Nodding quickly, the Council member entered the command to send the ship into hyperspace, and successfully left the blaster fire behind. "Yeah! We made it!" Windu shouted, overjoyed. He laughed as he observed his friend slump in his seat, breathing a sigh of relief. "Come, Qui, don't tell me you were worried?"
Jinn tried to shoot his friend a serious look, but a small smile both sides of his mouth ruined the attempt.
A small cough attracted both Masters' attention. Unfastening and pulling his restraints back, Qui-Gon quickly lifted his robe from the small child, almost sure that the ship's violent shaking had awakened him. But he found the child deeply asleep and still holding on to his tunic.
Qui-Gon pursed his lips in worry. There should have been some reaction from the boy. They way the ship had shaken would have been sufficient to wake a person from a coma! Quickly applying a light Force-probe, Qui-Gon checked to see the progress of his small patient. He was happily surprised that not only had the little boy stabilized, but the infection in his lungs had not spread. The infection was still present, but its rampage and the fever had
lessened rather remarkably.
"I think he's just very comfortable, Qui," he heard Mace soothing voice, "You're just a big, fluffy pillow to him, you know."
Qui-Gon laughed at his friend's comment. Now that he thought about it, the child did look quite comfortable sleeping against him.
Slowly, he stood and looked around for a bed or bunk where he could lay his newly found little friend. Turning to Mace, he said, "I'm going to find if there's somewhere that I can place him so that he can sleep undisturbed."
Windu nodded and turned back to the panel and finished setting their
coordinates for Coruscant.
*********
Qui-Gon soon found a small compartment at the back of the small ship that served as sleeping quarters. Opening the door and stepping inside, he found a small bunk along one of the room's corners, a small cupboard on the opposite wall, and a night table by the bed. Without turning on the lights, the Master closed the door, carefully sat on the edge of the bed, and began to slowly ease the baby onto the mattress.
As Obi-Wan felt himself begin to separate from his haven of safety and
warmth, he opened his sleepy eyes and gasped in fear and surprise. Quickly looking around, he found himself in a strange place. A strange, dark place.
"Mommy?" he called out in a frightened voice. He sat up on the bed as his small arms searched blindly in darkness, desperately reaching for his mother. Gently taking the tiny hands in his own large ones, Qui-Gon soothingly hushed the scared child, "Shh...it's okay...you're safe now. No one can hurt you here."
Obi-Wan was unable to see who had spoken, but immediately recognized the deep, low voice calming him in the darkness. "Daddy?"
Again that question. Jinn was about to explain to the boy that he wasn't his father, but for some reason his resolve evaporated and he was unable to mouth the words. Feeling how the short, little fingers tightened around his big hands, seeking comfort and love, the Master's decision of divulging the truth to the child, also fled. The child had already lost his mother, and telling him he wasn't his father would frighten and alienate the little boy even more. Besides, once they reached the Temple, the child would be placed and cared for in the Crèche, and Qui-Gon would never see the boy again. He was
certain that the Council would find a new home for the child, so here was no problem in reassuring the little boy that he was his dad.
"Yes little one, it's me."
Unexpectedly, the child freed his hands and climbed up onto the Master's lap, hugging Qui-Gon tightly.
"Daddy...," he whispered happily, his short arms tightening against Master's chest.
Qui-Gon was perplexed. He hadn't expected this reaction from the little boy. Awkwardly, he returned the hug, patting the small back with a large hand.
"Mommy slipin'...," the little voice said hoarsely. Only this time, it sounded very pained and deeply sorrowful. "No wake up..."
Unsure of what to say, Qui-Gon remained silent and began rubbing his hand in small circles across diminutive back. As he did so, he felt the small back begin to shake with small tremors as soft, barely audible whimpers filled the cabin. Acting out of instinct, Qui-Gon pulled back and lifted the trembling boy in his arms, resting the sniffling head softly on his shoulder. He began rocking the baby slowly while gently stroking the downy hair. He soon felt two little arms come up to circle his tightly around his neck. The Master
smiled.
"Shh,...I'm here...don't be scared..."
Qui-Gon was surprised at what he had just said. But, he did not regret it. Not only did it fill him with warmth and peace, but it also appeared to have a favourable effect on the child. Soon, the soft crying began to slowly ease.
"N-no go, daddy...,"
Qui-Gon heard the small, sniffled plea and did not hesitate to answer.
"Don't worry little one, I won't go. I'll stay with you. Now sleep...," the Jedi whispered softly in soothing tones as he placed a large hand on the small head and gently induced the young mind to sleep. Soon, the distressed baby was deep in slumber, his grip on the Master's neck slowly easing as his weary body began to relax against the Jedi.
Qui-Gon's smile broadened. After all, looking after a small child wasn't as bad as he had thought it would be. It was almost...nice.
The Master gently laid the boy on the small bed, making sure that the thin blankets were tucked snugly around little boy. He sat for a long moment, contemplating the sleeping child. Not satisfied that the child would be warm beneath the blankets, Qui-Gon stood and searched for more blankets, which he found inside a little cupboard. He carefully extended the thicker blankets over the small bundle, that was now curled up in the middle of the bed, then
tucked them carefully around the child.
Qui-Gon smiled in contentment, satisfied in the knowledge that the little boy was now safe and warm. He stroked the silky, tousled hair and then prepared to stand up, making sure not to wake his sleeping friend. He stealthily opened the door and blinked as a bright ray of light flooded in from the corridor, and fell on the small slumbering form on the bed. Qui-Gon smiled one more time, then turned to leave the compartment. But, before he could do so, he heard a rather loud sneeze followed by coughs coming from the little boy.
The worried Master quickly returned to the boy's side, kneeling beside him, leaving the door open. Lightly amused, he watched how the boy sleepily rubbed his fist first over his nose, and then over his closed eyes. Then, with a deep sigh that made the Master chuckle softly, the child settled back into sleep. But his smile soon disappeared when he remembered the sound of the child's coughing. Carefully placing a large hand over the small chest, he reached
out and, with a Force-touch, checked on the condition of the small lungs. Fortunately, there had been no change since the last time Qui-Gon checked up on him.
Sighing in relief, the Master once again prepared to leave, but stopped abruptly. What if the little boy needed something during night? Qui-Gon would be unable to hear him from the cockpit. And what if the fever returned? Would the boy have further difficulty breathing? He was now stable, but he was far from being okay.
Without hesitation, Qui-Gon carefully climbed into the bed and, molding his large frame protectively around the little boy, gently wrapped a large arm over the tiny, sleeping bundle. Taking one of the tiny hands in his and drawing a Force-shield around the boy, he ensured that he would be alerted if the child awoke or needed something.
Closing his eyes, Qui-Gon bent his head and dropped a light kiss on the tiny crown resting beneath his chin. He smiled as he soothingly stroked the back of the tiny being that was now in his care. The Jedi Master's lips released a quiet prayer of thanks to the Force; his heart grateful that it had decided not to gather the child's soul. Only then did he allow himself to fall into the soothing arms of sleep.
Part 2
Slowly, she opened her eyes. She blinked and attempted to recall what had happened to her. Without success. She found herself sprawled on the ice cold ground, leaning slightly to her left side. She tried to raise her head to look around, but it throbbed unmercifully, forcing her eyes to close in pain as she lay back down.
As she shifted, she became aware that her aching head was pillowed by her left arm, and that her remaining arm rested over a small, unmoving form that snugged against her. Re-opening her tired eyes once again, she groaned as her surroundings appeared to swirl around her in slow motion. The images flashing in front of her were blurry and confusing, only lights and shadows being distinguishable. She lifted her gaze skyward, dully noting that a fluffy blanket of dark-gray clouds were covering the usually clear blue sky.
A faint smile crept across her trembling lips as she recalled the numerous times that she and her infant son had sat and watched the beautiful dawns and sunsets that had painted that same sky. As she continued to look at the mournful sadness of the sky above her, her eyelids fluttered momentarily before closing again. Slowly, reluctantly, she gave herself to a deep and peaceful sleep that gently tugged at her. A sleep she knew she would not be waking. Her entire being was slowly relaxing. She felt a strange peace surround her as her remaining strength began to take flight like a small bird, a bird finally given its freedom. Her head lolled forward as her body
arranged itself into a fetal position. As she felt herself descend into the depths of a peaceful oblivion, she heard a faint, choked moan. Forcing her already unresponsive eye to open one last time, she looked down to see the small, huddled form of her son curled against her.
Obi-Wan! Her breath suddenly quickened as a wave of joy and relief washed over her. Her little baby was still with her!
Weakly lifting an unsteady hand, she placed it over the downy, auburn-colored hair, lovingly stroking it with extreme care and tenderness. Her trembling fingers momentarily hesitated to touch it as her mind still doubted that this was true reality. As she gently stroked the so-soft locks of her baby, she felt a sticky wetness coat her fingers, and then frowned in dismay as she noticed the blood streaking across her baby's soft features. A wave of cold fear ran up her spine as the idea of her baby being injured shook her to her
core. As she tried to changed her position, she winced at the almost-forgotten pain searing her back.
Her small son couldn't be injured! Not her Obi-Wan!
"O-obi-Wan?" her voice trembled as it came out in a mere whisper.
She waited for an answer, remaining very, very still, afraid even to breathe. She noted that Obi-Wan's breathing appeared shallow and almost imperceptible. At the sound of her voice, the boy's respiration quickened, and the whirring wheeze returned again. His small, tortured lungs appeared to be failing as they struggled to take in oxygen. And this scared Saari to no end.
Again, she called out, "Sweety?"
The small child stirred, as if battling against unconsciousness. Was his mommy calling for him? He was certain he had heard her voice, but he was still unsure. He began to drift off once again, his young, weary mind unable to remain awake for too long. But, he was suddenly brought back from the dark comfort of sleep when he again heard his mom's worried voice. "Obi-Wan, you have a beautiful pair of eyes...please, let mommy see them." He was unable to resist that sorrowful and choked plea. With great effort, he opened his eyes and very slowly turned his gaze to his mom's worried face.
Saari choked back a sob. The boy's eyes were glazed and looked so exhausted. They looked lifeless, dull and lacked their normal sparkle.
Obi-Wan blinked and a small flicker of a smile crossed his tiny, pink lips. Lips that the cold was already turning blue. His mom was still there, watching him, holding him. Feeling safe once again, the diminutive child began responding to the intense fatigue that threatened to pull him down into unconsciousness. But, he bravely struggled against it as his mother's voice once again called him back.
"No, Obi-Wan, please! Don't close...close them...let m-mommy look at
them...one last time..." Saari gasped in pain. It was getting very
difficult to breathe now. She knew her time was running out, as well as the air. Her voice was interrupted repeatedly as piercing waves of pain increased every minute, turning her breath into sharp hisses. But looking down at her son, her pain seemed to lessen. Her chin quivered as she began losing herself in depths of the blue-green gems that were her son's eyes. Tears fell from her eyes as she told herself that her little baby was not supposed to be here. He should be sleeping in a warm, comfortable bed, not here in the middle of a cold forest. But she was unable to help him. She had failed him.
Using the last of her strength, the young, exhausted mother held her precious bundle closer, kissing the baby's silky hair with a faint brush of her lips. Murmuring softly into Obi-Wan's hair, she whispered, "I'm afraid mommy will have to go after all, sweety."
"No mommy...!" she heard the muffled, feeble protest.
Lovingly looking at her beautiful son one last time, she reluctantly closed her eyes. "I don't want to go...but I have to, dear."
"Wanna go wis' you."
"No! No, you can't come with me...you are too small, sweety...too small." Saari gently squeezed the frail body under her right arm, "You have to...to be awake, Obi-Wan...don't fall asleep...," her voice began trailing off, "Please..."
"'Kay, mommy...," the little boy whispered obediently, nodding slowly.
Saari smiled dreamily, her breathing slowing as warm, soft numbness began blanketing her mind. Her baby was such a good little boy. He had not questioned her request, not even when he did not understand what was happening around them.
"I love you...," she quietly breathed in soft, dulcet tones, "I love you, my little ray of light."
Obi-Wan smiled again. He felt happy whenever his mommy called him that. It made him feel safe, warm, loved. The little boy knew that when his mom called him this, she meant that she was very happy and content. It had been a long time since he had felt his mom feel this way.
Closing his eyes for a moment, he listened contentedly to the soothing
beating of his mother's heart, burrowing deeper against her light tunics as he held his ear closer to her body. The sound of his mother's heartbeat had always given him a feeling of warmth, love, and comfort.
He cuddled closer as he began to notice that the comforting sound was
beginning to fading away. His small hands grasped at her tunics as the sound slowed, little by little, becoming faint with every beat.
Until it stopped.
*******
Qui-Gon Jinn and Mace Windu, Masters of the Jedi Order, ran at Force-enhanced speed through the forest, deftly avoiding the rain of blaster fire coming at them from behind. The ground gave a tremendous shake as a large energy blast exploded beside them, throwing the both to the ground.
"We are not getting anywhere like this, Mace," Qui-Gon said as they both quickly crawled, seeking to find any available shelter.
Windu's head jerked up as his senses alerted him of danger and, pulling Qui-Gon with him along the ground, avoided being hit by a missile that passed, hissing angrily over their heads.
Jinn carefully lifted his head, watching how as the projectile exploded against a large tree. His momentary relieved expression changed dramatically as he realized that the colossal tree was falling in their direction.
"Mace!" he shouted as he rolled over several times, covering several meters, narrowly escaping the deadly impact.
As soon as Qui-Gon felt the ground ceasing to tremble, he carefully stood and began calling to his friend, "Mace! Are you all right?"
He waited for what appeared to be endless moments, unable to hear any
response from the other Master. A dreadful feeling began to fill him as a sudden, somber idea crossed his mind. But he quickly pushed it away as he called to the Councilmember one more time.
"Mace!!"
"Qui?"
"Mace!" Qui-Gon shouted back, relieved to hear his friend's voice responding from the other side of a huge tree.
"Qui! You okay?" he heard Windu shout excitedly.
"Yes! Mace, we need to get to a transport that can get us out of here!"
"That's a nice idea, Qui, but how do you expect to do that?" the Jedi Master heard his friend's laughing voice, and smiled.
"I don't know, Mace. See if you can find anything from your side, and try to keep your butt alive!"
Mace laughed and his voice faded as he began to jogging away from the
location. "That goes for you too, buddy!"
Qui-Gon laughed as well. Turning around, his smile faded and a look of deep concentration replaced it as he reached out for the Force to scan his surroundings. His side of the forest was quite clear, except for some of the few standing droids that had previously been chasing them. But, luckily, they were retreating, apparently believing that the tree had eliminated the Jedi.
/Jedi don't believe in luck,/ he told himself, lightly amused. He turned and began jogging in the opposite direction, his hand lightly placed over his lightsaber's hilt.
******
After a few moments of jogging at a clipped pace, Qui-Gon finally reached the outskirts of the city. As he exited the well marked tree line, he noticed that a large expanse of snow covered rocks and stones was the only thing that stood between him and a tall fence bordering the outskirts of the city. Traversing that distance would make anyone an easy target.
Hiding himself behind a large tree, Qui-Gon surveyed both the area and his options. He had to find a way to get to the fence without being seen. At first, the area appeared deserted - no guards, no droids, nothing. His eyes came to rest on a dark, oblong spot staining the green grass, giving it a strange hue. The Master stared as small crimson flecks of light reflected back at him. Qui-Gon frowned, unsure what he was seeing.
The Master once more looked at his surroundings, the strange eerie quiet sending shivers down his spine. It appeared too peaceful. He knew that even with no one sight, both guards and droids were probably in the area and well hidden. Once more reaching out to the Force, Qui-Gon confirmed his theory. There were about thirty humanoid-looking guards with approximately sixty droids strategically hidden and surveying the area. That was going complicate matters..
As he continued to observe the situation, a sudden sense of danger came through the Force, making him crouch farther down along the ground. Soon, a loud throbbing of engines could be heard as the sky began filling with a fleet of droid-driven STAP vehicles. They actively searched the area for any living thing.
Keeping very still, Qui-Gon watched as the droid heads poked out from their machines, scanning the area for any movement. Fortunately, his dark brown robe blended well with the colours of the forest, effectively camouflaging him. Placing the hood over his head, he erected a light Force-shield, further blending him into the forest, making him practically invisible.
After the fleet had passed, he slid stealthily from tree to tree, crouching and searching for any cover that would allow him to reach the fence unnoticed. The Master knew that once there, it would be easy for him to breach it and enter the limits of the city.
After carefully traversing a few meters, he scrutinized the land before him, both visually and with the Force. A small smile crept across his lips when he found no guard presence anywhere within the immediate area. He quickly sent a Force-thought to Mace, notifying him of his findings. After a few seconds, Mace responded, acknowledging both the message and its content. Even if the area did feel empty, he did not intend to take any chances with their safety.
Qui-Gon looked up at the clouded sky, grateful that it gave him a small advantage. If it had been sunny, he would have been forced to use tree shadows as cover in order to mask his movements. The dark clouds suffused the morning light, sufficiently scattering shadows which were then made even darker by the forest canopy. It was not an ideal situation, but it would have to do.
Ensuring that he was well camouflaged, Qui-Gon slid gracefully between the alternating light and shadows. But, as he was about to reach the fence, he froze. A gentle pull through the Force attracted his attention to his right, his eyes alighting on what appeared to be a slight form lying on the ground. His deep blue eyes narrowed as his senses confirm what his eyes were seeing - that it was, indeed, a humanoid form lying on the ground. His eyes snapped wide open as he realized that not only was the form humanoid, but that it was also sending out a weak Force signature.
Briefly forgetting the droids, the guards and caution, he ran at top speed towards the fallen being. As he reached the huddled form, the Master was dismayed to see a large, black wound - possibly from a blaster - located neatly between the shoulder blades, scorching both clothes and flesh. The thin form undoubtedly belonged to that of a young woman.
Qui-Gon quickly rounded the still form, and slowly knelt in front of her, his long robe billowing smoothly behind him. She was a beautiful young lady. Her sweet, child-like features still appeared fresh, even though her face was pallid and cold to the touch. Her eyes were softly closed as if in gentle sleep, and a shadow of a smile could still be seen on her pale lips.
Carefully placing two fingers on the girl's delicate neck, Qui-Gon confirmed what he already knew, she no longer lived. But then, what was it that he had felt? What about that weak signature?
Stretching his senses once more, the Master touched the spark of life that had called to him. This time his attention was directed to a small bundle of ragged, blood-stained clothes, lying against the young woman's body. The woman's body half covered the bundle, protectively covered by a limp, fragile arm.
Gently lifting the lifeless limb, Qui-Gon gasped in shock as he lifted the blanket. A small, thin baby was lying on the cold ground, his face and hands pressed to the young woman's body, and almost completely covered in blood. At first, the Master was certain that the baby was dead, but then he heard a barely audible whimper, followed by soft, hoarse whispers. Bending forwards, he listened carefully as he made out the words to the soft murmuring.
"Mommy ... wake up ... wanna go 'ome ... mommy?"
Qui-Gon's heart contracted as he listened to the gentle and repeated plea. The little boy's voice, although hoarse and broken, sounded so full of hopeful innocence, almost willing his mommy to wake up. But the Master could also feel the exhaustion coming from the small voice as it struggled for breath..
Qui-Gon straightened and looked sadly at the girl for a brief moment, a beautiful life taken. Gently, he lifted the young woman's arm, reached under, removed the blanket and picked up the little bundle from the cold grass. The child was burning with fever, and he weighed so very little. He winced as he wondered just how many days the little boy had been without food or water. He quickly pushed the thought from his mind as he cradled the small being protectively against his chest, trying to warm it with his body. The Master quickly grabbed an end of his robe and wrapped the child which had now begun to shiver.
As worn out and confused as he was, a part of Obi-Wan knew that he was no longer near his mother, but couldn't find the strength to resist the two large arms that now held him. He allowed the stranger to hold him as he felt warmth and comfort surrounding him. He felt an enveloping peace radiating from the stranger's body, warming his soul, as he felt it begin to warm his shivering body. Surprisingly, he didn't feel threatened or in danger, just safe and protected. Just like home.
"Daddy?" a sudden, faint question broke the stillness.
Qui-Gon turned and looked down in surprise at the little boy. He wasn't sure whether the child was calling for his father or if he believe that Qui-Gon was his father. There was no time for him to try and explain to the little boy that he wasn't 'daddy', and decided instead to acknowledge the title, hoping that it would give the little boy some much needed comfort. "Yes, little one. I'm here. Don't worry, you're going to be okay now."
"'Kay, daddy...," Obi-Wan replied in a relieved whispered. Two tiny, fevered hands gripped at the Master's soft tunics and, in seconds, the little boy had fallen fast asleep.
Making sure that they could not be seen, the tall Jedi took a moment to look at the sleeping child that he held in his arms. He gently brushed a large thumb against a soft, fevered cheek, slowly wiping away some of the blood. He had held babies back in the Temple while assigned to Crèche duty, but he had never held such a small and fragile baby before. He had always been very careful with his small charges, taking pains not to move too quickly or watching where he stepped. He feared that with his great size and strength, he would somehow hurt or injure them in some way. He was always aware of just how small and fragile they were.
Qui-Gon smiled. "Small and fragile". This tiny baby had lived through a civil war, his mother's death, hunger, thirst, and other dangers in is short life, but still he had managed to survive. The Master bent his head in reverence over the sleeping form. The little body may be small and his appearance may look fragile, but this little being had the strength and spirit of a grown Jedi.
The tall Master gently rocked the sleeping child as he realized that holding something fragile didn't necessarily mean it would "break" under his care. He even began to feel a little relaxed as he watched over his small charge. As he looked at the soft features of the little boy, he felt a soothing calm surrounding him as the stress of the past few hours began to melt away.
As he continued to rock, Qui-Gon slowly became aware of a wheezing sound coming from the child. It sounded as if there were an obstruction within the child's chest, making him to gasp and fight for air. Shifting the little boy away from his body and carefully settling him on one arm, he gently placed a large hand over the tiny chest and began using the Force to search for anything out of place. The Master winced and drew in a sharp breath as he found the source of the obstruction. An infection had settled in both of the boy's lungs, possibly caused by an illness, which had been badly treated and
had spread. As a result, the small lungs were slowly shutting down. At least, Qui-Gon thought to himself, that would explain several things like the high fever, the hoarse voice, and the laboured breathing. But, he marveled at how this small baby had managed to survive in the freezing cold of the brutal winter, without so much as a shelter or regular sustenance.
Concentrating and slipping into a light meditative state, Qui-Gon began to pour some of his own strength into the weaken body, hoping to stem the infection before it did irreparable damage. As minutes passed, he felt the spread of the infection slowing its advance and he carefully began to repair the damage, just enough to keep the young lungs from completely shutting down. He continued to steadily pour his own Force-energy into the healing, mending damaged tissue and assisting the small body to heal itself. Moments later, a small smile crossed his lips as the wheezing began to slowly fade away and felt the child slip into a comfortable and peaceful sleep.
Certain that the child's medical state had stabilized, Qui-Gon turned back to take cover in the darkened forest. He knew that his journey and his objective to reach the fence was going to be a bit more complicated, now that he had a second life to protect. But he knew he would manage.
Qui-Gon was so busy concentrating on protecting the boy and breaching the fence, that he failed to notice a large, dark shadow approaching them from behind. The small boy began to stir and moaned softly in his arms. The movement brought him back from his reverie, allowing him to sense the presence approaching them. Remaining motionless, the Master quickly slid one hand inside his robe and unhooked his lightsaber from his utility belt. Holding the baby firmly in his left arm, he lifted his right arm free as he maneuvered the lightsaber into position.
Patiently, he waited; remaining motionless and stock still for whoever was behind him to get closer. When the Force told him to move, the Master turned and with a Force-push, threw the hooded stranger backwards. Quickly regaining his foothold, he ignited his lightsaber and held it protectively between himself and the threat.
The fallen, hooded figure sat up slowly, clearly in a daze. Qui-Gon
effortlessly assumed a defense stance, his emerald lightsaber glowing
impressively in front of them. The tall Master was about to step closer when he heard an angry but familiar voice coming from the fallen form, which was now holding a hand to its head.
"Qui-Gon, what the hell is wrong with you?!"
"Mace?"
"No, the Easter bunny! Of course it's me, Qui!" the Councilmember replied sarcastically as he struggled to his feet.
Qui-Gon laughed as he deactivated his 'saber and replaced it back on his belt, while still holding the small baby in his left arm. He checked on his fragile charge and noticed that he was still sleeping. Apparently, and miraculously enough, all the commotion had failed to wake him.
Mace watched in confusion as Qui-Gon appeared to murmur something into his left arm. Approaching the tall Master, Windu noticed two tiny, pink hands poking out from beneath the long, dark robe, gripping at his friend's tunics. With his eyes wide open in bewilderment, Mace looked at the tall Master, "Qui-Gon, what's that?"
Jinn looked up and, with a smile, let his friend see what was hidden under his robe. Mace's eyes went wider and he gasped in surprise when he found a small, one-year-old baby huddling comfortably against the Master's chest. In complete astonishment, Windu attempted to ask, "Whe-, How-, Wha-...?"
Qui-Gon chuckled and began to answer the unfinished questions. "I found him some minutes ago, over there, in the clearing. He was hidden under his mother's body."
"Is she...?"
"Yes," Qui-Gon answered solemnly. As he looked down at the sleeping form, he brushed away at a lock of slightly dampen, auburn-colored hair resting on the boy's brow. "He was trying to wake her up when I found them."
Mace's face turned from surprise to sadness. "Poor little thing," he
whispered as he gently stroked one of the tiny hands with the back of his fingers.
"We need to take him to the Temple, and quickly, Mace. He has an infection in his lungs that has to be treated by the Healers immediately. If not...," the Master's voice trailed off as he thought of the possibility of losing the little boy. Qui-Gon frowned. He would not allow that to happen.
"Yes," Mace nodded in agreement, "Let's get out of this place."
*******
Both Masters successfully breached the fence without incident. Both then headed in the direction of the nearest spaceport which, fortunately, was not hard to find. With the help of the Force, they managed to 'convince' a pilot to 'loan' them his space ship on a temporary basis, and in a matter of minutes both Masters and small charge were in the air.
As Mace set their ship's course for Coruscant, a small beep followed by a robotic voice sounded throughout the ship's intercom, taking both Masters by surprise.
"Identification, please."
Mace, who was piloting, looked back at Qui-Gon, half-expecting a clever idea to come from the tall Master.
Qui-Gon, who was standing behind Windu and slowly rocking the small baby in his arms, frowned. He tried to come up with credible response that would satisfy the droid's inquiry. If they didn't come up something quick, the droid would automatically alert a squad, and they would be attacked in seconds.
"Turn the shields up to maximum," Qui-Gon told Mace as he slid into the co-pilot's seat and began fastening the seat restraints around him, "And, of course, tell them that we'll miss them." he added, grinning sarcastically. He placed one restraint carefully around the child as he crossed his arms, further holding the little boy closely against his chest. If worst came to worst his body would serve as a shield to protect the child.
Mace grinned at his friend. That was the Qui-Gon that he knew. Strengthening the shields around their ship, he activated the communicator and responded. "This is KL 243-12 and we are leaving."
"KL 243-12, you don't have permission to leave the planet," the droid
answered while it checked its database for confirmation. "You must return to base immediately."
"Oh, don't worry, we promise to write every day," Windu grinned, cut the communication, and accelerated to top speed.
As Qui-Gon had predicted, a squad of at least ten small ships appeared behind them, forming a line and ready to shoot.
"Okay, Qui, hang on!"
Their ship shook and rocked as thin red blaster beams struck the shields. They just needed one additional minute before they could jump into hyperspace. The computer had been programmed and the calculations for the jump were set, but before Mace could do anything, their shield generator was hit.
"Damn! The generator!" Mace cursed under his breath as he checked his flight panel, which was now glowing with flashing red lights.
Qui-Gon checked on another screen and noticed how close the small ships were getting. "Forget about the generator, Mace! Get us outta here!" the Master urged his friend, a hint of concern tinting his firm voice.
Nodding quickly, the Council member entered the command to send the ship into hyperspace, and successfully left the blaster fire behind. "Yeah! We made it!" Windu shouted, overjoyed. He laughed as he observed his friend slump in his seat, breathing a sigh of relief. "Come, Qui, don't tell me you were worried?"
Jinn tried to shoot his friend a serious look, but a small smile both sides of his mouth ruined the attempt.
A small cough attracted both Masters' attention. Unfastening and pulling his restraints back, Qui-Gon quickly lifted his robe from the small child, almost sure that the ship's violent shaking had awakened him. But he found the child deeply asleep and still holding on to his tunic.
Qui-Gon pursed his lips in worry. There should have been some reaction from the boy. They way the ship had shaken would have been sufficient to wake a person from a coma! Quickly applying a light Force-probe, Qui-Gon checked to see the progress of his small patient. He was happily surprised that not only had the little boy stabilized, but the infection in his lungs had not spread. The infection was still present, but its rampage and the fever had
lessened rather remarkably.
"I think he's just very comfortable, Qui," he heard Mace soothing voice, "You're just a big, fluffy pillow to him, you know."
Qui-Gon laughed at his friend's comment. Now that he thought about it, the child did look quite comfortable sleeping against him.
Slowly, he stood and looked around for a bed or bunk where he could lay his newly found little friend. Turning to Mace, he said, "I'm going to find if there's somewhere that I can place him so that he can sleep undisturbed."
Windu nodded and turned back to the panel and finished setting their
coordinates for Coruscant.
*********
Qui-Gon soon found a small compartment at the back of the small ship that served as sleeping quarters. Opening the door and stepping inside, he found a small bunk along one of the room's corners, a small cupboard on the opposite wall, and a night table by the bed. Without turning on the lights, the Master closed the door, carefully sat on the edge of the bed, and began to slowly ease the baby onto the mattress.
As Obi-Wan felt himself begin to separate from his haven of safety and
warmth, he opened his sleepy eyes and gasped in fear and surprise. Quickly looking around, he found himself in a strange place. A strange, dark place.
"Mommy?" he called out in a frightened voice. He sat up on the bed as his small arms searched blindly in darkness, desperately reaching for his mother. Gently taking the tiny hands in his own large ones, Qui-Gon soothingly hushed the scared child, "Shh...it's okay...you're safe now. No one can hurt you here."
Obi-Wan was unable to see who had spoken, but immediately recognized the deep, low voice calming him in the darkness. "Daddy?"
Again that question. Jinn was about to explain to the boy that he wasn't his father, but for some reason his resolve evaporated and he was unable to mouth the words. Feeling how the short, little fingers tightened around his big hands, seeking comfort and love, the Master's decision of divulging the truth to the child, also fled. The child had already lost his mother, and telling him he wasn't his father would frighten and alienate the little boy even more. Besides, once they reached the Temple, the child would be placed and cared for in the Crèche, and Qui-Gon would never see the boy again. He was
certain that the Council would find a new home for the child, so here was no problem in reassuring the little boy that he was his dad.
"Yes little one, it's me."
Unexpectedly, the child freed his hands and climbed up onto the Master's lap, hugging Qui-Gon tightly.
"Daddy...," he whispered happily, his short arms tightening against Master's chest.
Qui-Gon was perplexed. He hadn't expected this reaction from the little boy. Awkwardly, he returned the hug, patting the small back with a large hand.
"Mommy slipin'...," the little voice said hoarsely. Only this time, it sounded very pained and deeply sorrowful. "No wake up..."
Unsure of what to say, Qui-Gon remained silent and began rubbing his hand in small circles across diminutive back. As he did so, he felt the small back begin to shake with small tremors as soft, barely audible whimpers filled the cabin. Acting out of instinct, Qui-Gon pulled back and lifted the trembling boy in his arms, resting the sniffling head softly on his shoulder. He began rocking the baby slowly while gently stroking the downy hair. He soon felt two little arms come up to circle his tightly around his neck. The Master
smiled.
"Shh,...I'm here...don't be scared..."
Qui-Gon was surprised at what he had just said. But, he did not regret it. Not only did it fill him with warmth and peace, but it also appeared to have a favourable effect on the child. Soon, the soft crying began to slowly ease.
"N-no go, daddy...,"
Qui-Gon heard the small, sniffled plea and did not hesitate to answer.
"Don't worry little one, I won't go. I'll stay with you. Now sleep...," the Jedi whispered softly in soothing tones as he placed a large hand on the small head and gently induced the young mind to sleep. Soon, the distressed baby was deep in slumber, his grip on the Master's neck slowly easing as his weary body began to relax against the Jedi.
Qui-Gon's smile broadened. After all, looking after a small child wasn't as bad as he had thought it would be. It was almost...nice.
The Master gently laid the boy on the small bed, making sure that the thin blankets were tucked snugly around little boy. He sat for a long moment, contemplating the sleeping child. Not satisfied that the child would be warm beneath the blankets, Qui-Gon stood and searched for more blankets, which he found inside a little cupboard. He carefully extended the thicker blankets over the small bundle, that was now curled up in the middle of the bed, then
tucked them carefully around the child.
Qui-Gon smiled in contentment, satisfied in the knowledge that the little boy was now safe and warm. He stroked the silky, tousled hair and then prepared to stand up, making sure not to wake his sleeping friend. He stealthily opened the door and blinked as a bright ray of light flooded in from the corridor, and fell on the small slumbering form on the bed. Qui-Gon smiled one more time, then turned to leave the compartment. But, before he could do so, he heard a rather loud sneeze followed by coughs coming from the little boy.
The worried Master quickly returned to the boy's side, kneeling beside him, leaving the door open. Lightly amused, he watched how the boy sleepily rubbed his fist first over his nose, and then over his closed eyes. Then, with a deep sigh that made the Master chuckle softly, the child settled back into sleep. But his smile soon disappeared when he remembered the sound of the child's coughing. Carefully placing a large hand over the small chest, he reached
out and, with a Force-touch, checked on the condition of the small lungs. Fortunately, there had been no change since the last time Qui-Gon checked up on him.
Sighing in relief, the Master once again prepared to leave, but stopped abruptly. What if the little boy needed something during night? Qui-Gon would be unable to hear him from the cockpit. And what if the fever returned? Would the boy have further difficulty breathing? He was now stable, but he was far from being okay.
Without hesitation, Qui-Gon carefully climbed into the bed and, molding his large frame protectively around the little boy, gently wrapped a large arm over the tiny, sleeping bundle. Taking one of the tiny hands in his and drawing a Force-shield around the boy, he ensured that he would be alerted if the child awoke or needed something.
Closing his eyes, Qui-Gon bent his head and dropped a light kiss on the tiny crown resting beneath his chin. He smiled as he soothingly stroked the back of the tiny being that was now in his care. The Jedi Master's lips released a quiet prayer of thanks to the Force; his heart grateful that it had decided not to gather the child's soul. Only then did he allow himself to fall into the soothing arms of sleep.