The Return....

[Xazor]

Xazor entered the temple quietly like she normally did everyday....but she was here, not on the same quest as she usually was. She usually came to meditate and watch the Masters....but not today...this was different. Behind her walked a man, who's face was hidden in the shadow of his robes' hood. She glanced back at him and smiled and then stopped before the council doors.

Here we are....ready?

She asked with a bright smile. The Jedi Knight gently laid a hand on his shoulder and spoke in his mind.

All will go well....I can feel it....

She said with hope. She did not want him to feel uncomfortable....but this had to be done....

[The Shadow Jedi]

They had been in transit two days, the nearly miraculous natural healing ability of Xazor giving her nearly complete healing. There were times when he wished for something like that! The Garou, or even part Garou had simply amazing regenerative properties. I fhe had known, maybe he wouldn’t be here. Well, the die was cast now, he was about to land on a planet he never wanted to step foot on.

Even still, he was curious. It had been years since he had been here, in fact where they were aiming for was the about the place where he had sat in a tree and gunned Darth Turbogeek down. His own clone, whom had replaced him after the wound that nearly claimed his life. The clone whom had risen to greatness, then had fallen. He had destroyed that one without any feeling – it was just a bit of carbon, just a waste product to be rid of. He had cleaned up the mess the clone had made, taken under his wing the bastard child the clone had fathered with a Sith Lordess, claimed the sword the clone had made. Took back the saber that was really his all along and disposed of a mistake that should never have happened. All the time, he was another name, James Tiberious Tohmahawk, a New Republic General with a bad attitude and a fighting ability that match the venom and acid of his mouth. As that name, he had created the Republic premiere fighting force, the Special Forces, right under everyone’s noses a fighting force that was the better of anything the Sith or the Jedi had. And with the acquisition of Arcan IV, a population to man that army. With secrey contacts, he had funded it out of a nefarious operation to skim funds from both the Imperials and the Republic, until a chance meeting if Jyanis Scorpion saw the opportunity of sucking the TSE credit banks dry. Billions of credits, now safely locked away, put into investments across the Galaxy, earning more raw cash, the type of money that bought anything and anyone. A couple of senators who saw things the way ‘Tohmahawk’ did, a few quietly passed laws made the whole setup easier.

The array was staggering and hardly anyone knew the full story, Master Yogurt had been in on it from the start however. One of the few Jedi he could trust and one who also saw things his way and sometime he had wondered what the other Jedi would think if they also knew. But for him, came the ambush. His luck ran out and it was only by sheer force of will, he had lived through the terrible crawl to the marginal safety of Whitetown… and to where the Jedi Jost Olorin lived. A Jedi who had lived out the Dark Times, who was truly ancient but still had his senses and also great wisdom. It had been a life changing experience.

One that lead him right back to Yavin IV, the secret home of the Temple Avalon and the Council Rooms of The Greater Jedi Order. A place he swore once he would never return to, one where what was once his own army guarded and kept hidden and safe. Which now he was in final decent for, his freighter/fighter which he had dubbed Razor was now deployed for landing on. The twin wing craft screamed as it came in, twisting in the air and coming to a hover, before dropping softly to the ground, landing pads taking the ship’s weight as it tapped the ground. The motors began to wind down as the boarding ramp began to lower, to also softly touch the ground.

The craft sat there cooling by itself, the only other noises apart from alloy cracks and pops was the wildlife of the jungle moon of Yavin. Close to Razor towered one of the massive Massani temples built millennium ago that were now empty, mere curiosities that held nothing of value. Once the Rebel Alliance had been here and won it’s second greatest victory with the destruction of the first Death Star. Eventually two beings came down the ramp, one a female, dressed in red. Her clothes that she had worn when she had been carried aboard were useless, so the other whom also exited had found something suitable. The taller figure was totally covered by a grey cloak, which had a deep hood that disgused all of his features. On his hip could be seen the hint of a sword, his boots were well used and strapped. His hands were gloved.

“Here we are” said a voice coming from the depths of the hood. A strangely accented voice, gentle and yet with a hint of menace and power. “I expect you would want to lead the way?”

“Yes, do you mind?” asked the woman.

“Don’t worry about it. I probably know the place better than anyone and I would prefer to follow, not this time….” As he spoke, the clouds that had been threatening rain burst and the area was quickly shrouded in rain. It was also getting dark, which added to the gloom. “…. And right on cue. Always seems to rain when I come here. Lets go”

Both figures dashed across the quadrangle, passed one temple, through a trail and then to another temple, the only one with any type of light coming from it. Not many, but enough to mark it was in use, unlike the others. There was no one about to see their passage, the only beings that set foot on Yavin now were the Jedi whim knew where Avalon was. Not even any of the NRSF did and they stopped all others from even getting close. Thence undisturbed, they made it to the enormous overhang that marked the entrance to the Jedi Temple.

“Where to now?” Xazor asked as she shook the water off herself.

“I think I would want to see the Council room itself. Are you sure there will be no one there?”

“Positive”

“Very well. Now you may lead”

They walked until they got to a a set of double doors, which they paused in front of. She glanced back at him and smiled and then stopped before the council doors.

Here we are....ready?

She asked with a bright smile. The Jedi Knight gently laid a hand on his shoulder and spoke in his mind.

All will go well....I can feel it....

“I don’t doubt it. Well….” He took a deep breath and pushed on the doors, stepping into the darkened room… and into a roomful of memories.

The Council floor was like he remembered. The seats encircling as well. The specially made one for Master Yogurt, set in the place of honour. The empty one tah he once sat on, the one that now honoured the Jedi that had died in service. The name the Jedi knew him as, the one the clone had taken and the one that had been killed.

<font color=red> Darth Turbogeek </font>

He stood there, looking quietly, thinking, remembering.

“You see this one here Xazor? This is where I sat when I led the Jedi years ago”

My god he thought. The things we did and said in this place….

[Anbira Hicchoru]

Yes, but those were different times, and a bygone era.

:: The old man approached from behind, walking through the doors Xazor and her dark friend had left open ::

[Xazor]

Xazor touched the name on the seat. She smiled thoughtfully as she tried to think of how life was for him when he served the Jedi so long ago. She sighed as she looked around the darkened room.

You must have done a great many things while you were here.......

She said softly, then suddenly turned around at the sound of another man's voice. It was Anbira...the one who was not so keen on her promotion. She smiled and bowed respectfully.

Greetings my friend.....

She turned to the one she was here with and shrugged slightly.

I'm sorry, I thought that no one would be here...I had the time right...I guess leaving the door open didn't help.

Her thoughts seemed to speak right in his mind as if they were his own...for the life bond they shared.

[Anbira Hicchoru]

OOC: You shouldn't have that knowledge, Xazor <img src=http://www.ezboard.com/image/emoticons_classic/smile.gif ALT=":)">

[Xazor]

ooc: what knowledge? the stuff I know about Mark? We have been doing lots of IC rps at SWfans if that's what you're referring to.

Oh! Time for when the council room is empty? <img src=http://www.ezboard.com/image/emoticons_classic/laugh.gif ALT=":lol"> .......I hang out here a lot and watch from the shadows. Just go with it, it makes things interesting.....

[Sage Hazzard]

OOC - I think he means the fact you said he wasn't keen on your promotion. Remember? Chewnakka was keeping you outside when he voiced his opinions.

Can anyone post here? Or is this leading up to something?

[Marcus QDunn]

OOC : I'd prefer noone else did apart from Xazor and myself for now

[Anbira Hicchoru]

OOC: It would've been best if you had said closed until otherwise.

And Xazor, Sage is right.

[The Shadow Jedi]

OOC : Actually Xazor, this timewise is before you were promoted.... yes, it gets confusing :/, I can sketch out a timeline if you want me to

IC :

<i<img src=http://www.thegjo.com/forum/smileys/asthanos.gif ALT=">D"> id we do great things...? I dont know. I doon't think so. History hasn't remembered the Jedi kindly in the last few years, has it?[/i]

He knew it hadn't. While the names were different, the Jedi themselves had slipped. From a time when the mere mention of evil would have the Jedi on a crusade to rid it, now.... what did they do? He sat down in the chair he had been looking at, closing his eyes to imagine what things had been like. Master Yogurt. figrin D'An. Rmaio. Jedi Boricua. jjwr. Names that were either gone or were not heard of much anymore.

"I remember the day I took up my place on the Council on this very chair Xazor. It was a proud day for me, it meant so much to be able to serve and to give. Tell me, do they teach that here anymore? That the primary purpose of a Jedi is to serve, to place themselves after others?"

[Xazor]

ooc: I was saying it narritively. I didn't say she knew that, I know she didn't know that! Sorry if it wasn't clear..... <img src=http://www.ezboard.com/image/emoticons_classic/smile.gif ALT=":)"> Okay, this is before I'm promoted? How? Oh well.....let me know in the garage if you could.....


ic: Xazor smiled as she watched the Jedi Master take a seat in the plush chair. She looked around, hoping that one day she too would be on the council. He then asked her a question.....a hard question.

Yes, I think they do......my Master taught me to put others before myself.....as do many others that teach here. I cannot speak for everyone....but as far as I have seen, yes....that principal is still taught.

She said, thinking about everyone she had witnessed doing this.....

[The Shadow Jedi]

"Then if it is as you say, then there is some hope. Because that is one of the fundamental differences between a Jedi and a Sith. A Jedi uses his power for knowledge and also to help others. A Sith uses their power for themselves and their own ends. They just want power in any way they can get it."

He leaned back, looking up at the ceiling., then out the large windows that looked out over the dark jungles of the moon.

"I remember the first Temple. It was a mighty tower, a finger into the sky. It looed over the beings of Coruscant. I used to climb out outside the safety of it and scale the walls to the top most peak and watch the sunrise. Have you been told how it was destroyed?"

[Xazor]

Xazor nodded slightly. She had been told many things about how the sacred temple had been destroyed on Coruscant.

I have heard some things, but I have not heard the whole story. I am sure you know......would you please tell me?

She asked softly, hoping she had not overstepped any boundaries.

[The Shadow Jedi]

"well, we sat there in our ovry tower, thinking nothing could hurt us.... even when it was attacked, the belief it could not be penetrated kept us blind. I took just one action, one person to prove how wrong that was. A cruel lesson I dont think the Jedi have learned properly. Just one person, who used their mind and logic and not the Force, took down every defence with a planted device that no one had the forsight to plan against. An EMP device.

You yourself have met that person that did that and even now, if what you said is true, still prove that the Force is nothing unless it is used right with an intelligent and deliberating mind. Do you know whom I speak?"

[Xazor]

Whom you speak of has several names also........am I correct? When the temple was destroyed, was not their name........Lord Fire Blade? Whom happens to now be........Helenias?

She asked, tiptoeing around the name. She did not want to be wrong and offend him......but she was basing her information off of things that Helenias had told her....

[The Shadow Jedi]

"Yes it was Lord Fire Blade...... Elieen Cross. And now you say Elieen is Helenias. That's so hard for me to accept, Xazor. I know you tell me the truth..."

And I see it in your thoughts too. If I ever needed convincing, that is more than enough. Can you tell me more of her? What's she like, how does she act? What does she tell you? Does she instruct in the Warrior ways well?

[Xazor]

Xazor smiled and nodded.

Oh yes, she does instruct in the ways of the warrior. In fact....she is my mentor currently. I have been learning greatly from her, that is why I went with her on the mission to Xa Fel. She is a great teacher and a kind Jedi. You just have to get to know her first....

She smiled gently, knowing that he could read all of the extra thoughts that ran through her mind.

[The Shadow Jedi]

Yes, I desire to see her again.... but not yet. You see, it firstly does put me in a hard situation... I believe a Jedi should not know love. I know that is not an official postition of hte Council, but that is what I personally believe. I I hadn't thought Helenias had died, I would not have become a Jedi. So you see, I have a conumdrum. On one hand, I have my vows as a Jedi, which even if the Jedi in general I dislke, I have not disvowed. Even if I dont see myself as a Jedi exactly, those vows I will not break. But..... there is Helenias. Even after this long, long seperation, I count her as my wife. While she was thought of as dead, there is no problem. But now, I have a choice down my road. I can keep to the Jedi ways as I see them, or there is Helenias. I know what my heart says, but is it right, truly right?

[Xazor]

Xazor smiled and nodded understandingly.

What does your heart tell you? Whatever it whispers while you are in quiet places......while you are still.....that is the truth speaking.......that is the Force....

She knew this to be true from firsthand experience. She looked around the room for a moment and sighed, wishing she could offer better words....but she felt that those were powerful enough.

Honestly.....I think that what you have in your heart is the answer.....and if someone else has a problem with that...then that is just them. It is no one's choice but your own....

She looked up at him and smiled compassionatly. How she wished to help him....

[The Shadow Jedi]

What the heart says may not be the....

Abrupty, he stood, his hand on the hilt of his sword.

"Someone is coming"

[Xazor]

Xazor rose to her feet at the same time as the great Jedi. She tried to see around the door, but could not move her head far enough without moving her body. She stayed silent for a moment and noticed his hand on his sword.

This is a Jedi temple.....a place of peace. I do not think you will need your weapon....

She said quietly. She could tell he was serious, so she rested her hand on her saber hilt, just in case he felt something that she was unaware of.....

[Helenias QDunn]

It was late and I was making an unexpected visit to Yavin IV. There was a question I wished to ask of the Council and I was preparing for that. Tonight, I felt liek I could not sleep, so I was dressed and having a walk through the cold hallways of this grim Temple. Well.... to be saying what i really thought, I rather liked this place. It suited me.

I was passing the Council rooms, when i heard voices. Wondering whim it was, I walked to the doors and entered, to see my friend and fellow Warrior Xazor there.

With an unidentified...... someone. I really coulldnt tell, not with the hood. That person did seem high strung, a hand on a .... sword?

Who in their right mind had a sword?

"Why Xazor! I did not expect to see you here, how are you? And who's this?, may I ask?"

The other person with Xazor... who was this? I could not sense a Force presence at all of this figure.

[Anbira Hicchoru]

Who is this person, indeed?

:: Anbira did not expect for others to be present in the council antechamber at this hour. Much less three. Helenias, Xazor...and a man of shadow.

Shadow?

Anbira's eyes narrowed. There was something to be discovered here. A latent mystery. ::

[Xazor]

Xazor swallowed hard as she looked at Helenias. She slowly moved in front of....this Man of the Shadows. Smiling casually, she shrugged her shoulders slightly.

I'm doing well Helenias, how about you?

She questioned quickly. Seeing that Helenias was not going to change the subject from the stranger, she sighed to herself.

Well, our secret is out, friend. Helenias.......this is......

She paused, looking quickly at her friend. She turned back to Helenias and looked at the ground.

This is...my friend....Chase...from my home planet...Cysaria....I know he shouldn't be here, but I wanted to show him the council room. It has been his dream since he was a little boy.....

She did not want Helenias or Anbira to be upset with her at all.....this could get her in big trouble.....

[The Shadow Jedi]

The very thing he didn't wish had just happened. He had been noticed. By accident yes and damnable luck, but noticed all the same when he had wished not to be.

Xazor! Don't say anything that can identify.....

But he paused becuase suddenly, he recognised the woman. The old man, he could deal with. This woman.... was the last person he wanted to face, especially right now.

* Maybe it's true, he thought behind his mental shielding. Maybe she is the real thing.... I need to play this very carefully *

[Xazor]

Marcus.....she is the real thing. This is your wife, you must believe. I have been training with her....I see things that others do not. You must believe me! Trust me......please.......

She spoke in his mind. She could read his thoughts and new his uncertainties.....but she new the truth and both of them had to see it! Anbira could be trusted also.....and they had to know these things.....
But for now, she would lie to them and make them believe he was someone else. Would they ever trust her now?

[The Shadow Jedi]

I trust you Xazor, believe me I do. However, this is not the right time or place. I know this will sound strange, but I just wish to observe her for now.

He could see the the young woman was under a fair bit of pressure, very, very unexpected that he did not wish to cause to her.

"Goojd eveninjg. Ijm ajm Chasje ajs Xazojr ajs saijd"

The voice was fairly loud and growling. Mentally, he imagined how a canine would speak.

"Forgivje hejr ijf thijs wajs nojt appropriatje. Ij takje resonsibliitjy fojr thijs intrusiojn, bujt lonjg agjo Ij leanjt somje Jedji skilljs anjd Ij wajs considerinjg Ijf Ij wouljd leanrjn morje. Mjy frienjd heje, fojr somje timje Ij havje knowjn shje trainejd ajs aj Jedji, sjo Ij presuadejd hejr tjo shojw mje wherje shje traniejd."

[Xazor]

Xazor nodded and smiled brightly.

Yes...this is the truth. My friend Chase is a Garou like myself....though I can speak in our native tongue and can switch to my heavier accent, I do not for the way I was raised. He was once a Sith....remember, I spoke of him to you Helenias. We were engaged for a while, but it did not work out when I left. We found one another on a secret mission I performed on Cysaria......

She smiled toothily, purposily exposing her elongated canines....then remembering that he had none in reality. This could pose a problem......but she was a quick thinker and would make it work.

Chase is a.....bit shy about his Garou background....though he speaks like one of us, he prefers to keep himself hooded so no one may see his features...like mine and Verse's. I too was once ashamed by them, but have learned that they are wonderful.....in time, he shall learn this too.....

Xazor was becomming a very good lier as each second passed.....

[Anbira Hicchoru]

Indeed, Chase. Welcome.

:: Anbira spoke distantly. In the folds of his robe, his left hand grasped onto a green stone.

Shadow...

...there was a meaning.

The old Jedi narrowed his eyes, uncertain how far he wished to pursue this. ::

[The Shadow Jedi]

It was a good thing their Life Bond made their transfer of thoughts almost unreadable. Some of the things Xazor and he were communicating were not what he wanted spyed on

One of the secrets to this is dont offer information unless it is asked for. Who is the old man and what is his position here?

"Thijs ijs thje Heleniajs yoju spokje ojf Xazojr?" The cloak kept him hidden, but it was clear from the position of his body, he had his attention to the woman. "Xazojr speakjs mucjh ojf yoju. ij ajm honourejd tjo meejt yoju"

[Xazor]

The life bond was working well to their advantage.

That is Anbira Hicchoru....he is a Jedi Master and Council Member. He is wise and cares deeply for the purpose of the Jedi. He can be trusted, Marcus......

Yes, this is Helenias! She is my Warrior Mentor.....

She smiled and bowed her head toward the woman.

[Helenias QDunn]

"Oh? She has?"

Xazor was not a good liar. She was far too honest to do that and I could read that there was something else going on here. This... being under the cloak was using a very, very strange power to stay hidden in the Force like I had never seen before. Even up close, I could get no feeling for it. None at all. This wasn't normal, this was beyond my skill to work out.

Be that as it may, I could tell that Xazor had not bought a threat to the Jedi in here.

"I am honoured she speaks well of me. I would return the compliment and speak well of her in return. She has a lot of potential she is beginning to fulfil and I believe she will be a great Warrior one day. I trust her judgement" That was my way of saying to her I would trust that this stranger meant the Jedi no harm - "Tell me however... I have witness many strange and powerful gifts in Force Power, but what you have is not known to me. If it is possible, you dont seem to exist in the Force at all. Can you explain this to myself and Anbira here?"

[The Shadow Jedi]

Ahhhh. Now he was on vaguely safe ground.

"Whajt ijs thijs powejr? Ijt ijs callejd fojr wanjt ojf aj bettejr worjd Shadowinjg. Ijt ijs mjy onljy reajl powejr Ij havje - Ijt alsjo givejs powerfujl illusionjs. Ijt hidejs mje anjd alsjo... ijf Ij wajs tjo reveajl mjy facje, yoju wouljd seje youjr owjn worsjt feajr. Evejn thje powerfujl knojw feajr anjd sucjh ijs thje naturje ojf thijs powejr, I musjt remaijn cloakejd anjd hiddejn. Somje beingjs feajr's arje powerfujl enougjh tjo kiljl anjd Ij wisjh njo innicenjt bloojd ojn mjy handjs. Djo nojt presumje yoju knojw whajt tajt mighjt shojw, thajt youjr feajr ijs knowjn.

Alajs, thijs Ij seje ajs a cursje anjd therje ijs njo reliejf tjo bje founjd. Djo nojt asjk fojr aj demonstratiojn ajs Ij cajn nojt sajy whajt yoju mighjt seje anjd ijf yoju wouljd easiljy recovejr"

That is true Xazor.... while I have this identity, that is the defence I have to make sure none see my real face.

To Anbira he turned. "Ij sensje Ij havje seejn yoju beforje. Teljl mje, whajt othejr namejs havje yoju hajd?"

Got any suggestions for what now Xazor? I need one to plan what to do

[Anbira Hicchoru]

Anbira is the only name I have ever known, though in darker times, I was called the Angel of Death.

:: The color drained from his face ::

But I would not wish to discuss that.

:: His knuckles tightened until white around the green stone, its strange whispering beginnning anew. Anbira closed his eyes for a moment. ::

I must make my leave of you for a moment. Perhaps we will meet again.

:: With that, the old Jedi proceeded to an ornate lift in the corner of the council room, which would take him to the Spire, a small, isolated room located in a minnaret above the council antechamber, designed for solitary meditation. ::

[Xazor]

Xazor cautiously eyed Helenias when she spoke. The question she asked was good.....but close enough to give it all away. She smiled with relief when Marcus answered the question well.......and saved his identity. Xazor knew that Helenias was not buying their story....

Let me think.......Go on to tell her about how abusive Sith Master Lord Kama was to me....and about how I was the Empress and you were going to try to free me so that I could follow my heart and become a Jedi, but I escaped on my own and I thought you were dead until we reunited a week ago. So now you were here to see what my training is like.....you're a Sith who wants to turn.....

Xazor relayed the plan in his mind as she smiled at Helenias. She bowed to Anbira when he excused himself and then averted her eyes back to the woman.

Oh yes, he has great Force ability...great Mentor. That is why he is here....maybe to be...accepted into the Order! He trained as a Sith and reached the rank of Master...now he wishes to turn because he has seen what the light has done for me!

The story was getting cheesier by the moment and she saw that Helenias was just playing along. Xazor nudged Marcus so that he would say something to back her story up.

[The Shadow Jedi]

Errrr Xazor......

He could see now Helenias was becoming amused as the story grew more incredulous. He reached out with a black glved hand and touched the young woman on the shoulder.

"Thajt wiljl bje aljl. Shje doejs speajk thje trutjh, bujt fojr onje thinjg, Ij wajs Darjk Jedji. Ij majy wisjh tjo joijn, ijf thje Jedji upholjd mjy viewjs ojf justicje"

Xazor, you really are a terrible liar. Personally, I hope you never have to learn any different - it's refreshing to have one as honest as you about. Just get Helenias to give us a tour for now

[Helenias QDunn]

That had to be one of the strangest powers I had ever heard of. It also sounded like pure Dark Side - but I just had my doubts. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I had heard about someone experimenting with something that sounded a bit like this.

And I added mentally, Xazor was not a good liar at all. There was absolutly nothing wrong with it, I found it good and I liked that in her. So this being didn't really want to be indentified? In some ways I could identify with that , for a good portion of my life I had been the same.

"So tell me Xazor, would your friend be interested in looking about? I see nothing wrong with that if you will vouch for this one"

[Xazor]

Xazor was beginning to break a sweat. She didn't know how much longer she could lie like this...she was horrible at it!

Yes, Helenias...I think that a tour would be wonderful...

She said with a relieved smile. Looking to Marcus, she sighed internally.

That was too close....

She kept looking at Helenias for a moment, for her to lead the way on the tour...

[Anbira Hicchoru]

:: Anbira went into deep meditation, yet at the same time, refused to look in the precise place where he would almost be assured of finding what he was looking for. He would not use the Lith. He must not.

...but what of the recurring feelings. There was a sense of urgency...of a great question, of which the man in shadow held the answer. The name he gave was not his, of course. Not even the voice belonged to him, to be sure. But Anbira could see no further. Not on his own, at least. He opened his eyes, wiping sweat from his brow as he removed the stone from his pocket. ::

I dare not...the risk is too great. But the stakes of this mystery are also...great themselves.

[Helenias QDunn]

"Very well.... Honoured visitor, what are you most interested in viewing? There is is much even a stranger is permitted to view, for there are few secrets in this area. Would you maybe be interested in viewing where we train?"

[Marcus QDunn]

"Trainnjg areja wiljl bje finje"

--

Under the disguise of The Shadow Jedi, a being who wore his cloak as to protect others from the power he had to create their worst fears, a real man was by himself. The man knew he had been so terribly alone for so long and yet knew not how he could be otherwise. A man with destiny on his shoulders, a man whom had a bloodline that stretched by countless years and was something he didn't want. On the sands of Terr'a he had lived for his early years, not realisng why he was different to the others that dwelt there. Why he was smaller, but faster, more agile. One day he had been taken and shown Power. For 80 years he had learnt that Power, until he had realised it's wrongness. for a short time, another shared his life,but she had been taken all to fast and he had come here to the Jedi. For years he served here, until he ran again. Now being here, he realised why he always wanted to avoid destiny and his power.

He wanted more than anything else just to be at his home and be a nothing. He wanted to walk the firey sands, to be bathed in the powerful gravity that made him so physically strong. To be alone and not have anyone or anything wanting him to be something in heart he didn't want.

He had been a Dark Jedi. He didnt really want that

He had been a true Jedi, even a Jedi Master and right now, that was what he was to a tiny few others. He didn't want that

On Arda, they would call him for a position he would never accept. there was evil there that sought him... evil that would come without notice if it knew where he was.

And now being in the presence of what he was now becoming certain was a woman whom he had given his heart to years before she was taken away, he knew what he was really wanting. He wanted none of this and yet it was his destiny.

Seeing the old man, whom had been a Jedi Council member when he first come the Jedi, a man whom had fallen into evil and come back... to fall again..... but it seemed he had come back again and was true to the Jedi, if what he could feel and see could be understood. He however knew the man as a different name.

Marcus had to admit he was surprised but gratified to see Anbira here. He had then been right. Lounge Lizard needed to find his own path and destiny.... just like Marcus now needed to.

And Marcus also now knew he needed to do right now.

There were many secrets he knew the Jedi did not know about the Temple. As Tohmahawk, he had laid out secrets and plans only Yogurt really knew, between them they had designed and constructed the ultimate Sith Death trap. For that's what Yavin IV was, with its mines, shields, hidden gun emcampments and more.... it was a open jaw, with the Jedi unwittingly a bait to lure evil of the Galaxy. And as such, there were ways to move about without being seen he had long used to be here as a Bounty Hunter and a NR General, when he should never have been allowed near the place. With Helenias and Xazor beginning to talk, Marcus stepped silently back, deliberatly keeping his mind as blank as possible. He walked to the back of the chair of Yogurt, made sure he wasnt seen. A hand moved and touched a hidden press panel....

"Undómiel!" he suddenly cried out

A trap door opened beneath the Jedi's feet and he fell away silently and without trace as the door closed above him as he fell into darkness...

--

It wasnt a far drop. his feet touched the ground. It was unlit, but he didnt need light to see, not with The Force. The first thing he did however was take the damnable cloak off - if there was light in here shimmer passed over the form of The Shaodw Jedi and from within it a man appeared. Unkept, with stained and battered clothing, more like a man without a home than a Jedi. Now as he really was, he began to walk up the tunnel, noting the turmoil in Xazor's mind at his sudden disappearence. He reassured her on the link that he was fine - and to answer Helenias honestly. It was difficult now to shut Xazor out of his mind, but he did, for he wanted no interruptions or further questions now. Instead, he used the Force, seeking out another presence....

Lounge Lizard..... Anbira....

It was like a beacon call. It was as if Turbogeek himself was calling the man whom once had been his Padawan, calling him to meet with him once again like he used to.

On the very top of the outside of the Temple. Like they had done on Coruscant years ago.

To the pinnicle once again.....

[Helenias QDunn]

I nodded to the stranger, before turning to Xazor.

"So tell me, I have not seen you for a week! Where have you been? What have you been up to?"

I listened to Xazor's answer, listening as she talked as we walked out of the Council room before a word, said out loud in a abruptly different voice came from the Council room.

"Undómiel!"

I whipped around, my hand going straight to the sabre on my belt. My eyes scanned the area of the Council room.... and realised that I could not see Xazor's companion. It wasn't that the being had seemed to vapourise, but the fact he called in my own native tongue "Evenstar" - a name and word he should never of heard before. A suspicion suddenly formed in my mind as I turned with great deliberation to Xazor, who must have sensed my mood change. I was now showing my power, radiating in as close to anger as a Jedi would get. It was not a nice sight.

"Who was that Xazor? Tell me the truth and tell me now!"

[Xazor]

Xazor cursed lightly under her breath as Marcus made his "escape". She turned around to nervously face Helenias. A hard lump formed in her throat as she looked at the intimidating woman stading before her. He had just landed her in a ton of trouble....

Yes, Helenias. I have been lying to you the whole time, and you have seen right through me. I apologize and hope that I have not broken the trust between yourself and I.....

She looked down and sighed. This was not going to be easy....especially after she had stood here and lied for several minutes. Her companion was indeed not who he said he was.......

The man that stood before you was not Chase.......Helenias.....that was.....that was.....

She couldn't bring herself to say it. She felt extremely guilty for lying......especially so badly. She could hardly ever tell a lie......especially when she thought it was important for himself to reveal his name.


Look, I lied to you so that I could protect the identity of......Marcus Q'Dunn......your husband. Yes, Helenias, that was your husband.....

She said softly and her eyes immediatly fell to the floor. She winced slightly as she waited for Helenias to slap her across the face or something. Xazor was terrified of her reaction......her knees were shaking as she stood before her fellow Warrior......

[Anbira Hicchoru]

:: The words in his mind spoke at the same time Anbira's will power was lost on the Lith. As its whispers grew, he heard an old friend's distinct voice. His grey eyes opened, snapping from his meditation. ::

Marcus...

:: It was a summons...to the pinnacle of the spire. The highest point above the lands below, and a place that Anbira had memories of. A place of training and contemplation. The old Jedi rose, outstretching a hand. An apparently-seamless wall pulled away, revealing a secret exit seemingly out into a precipitous drop, hundreds of stories down to the ground. Anbira stepped out, yet did not fall. He slowly rose, levitating to the top of the spire, touching down on the pinnacle, as the cool wind blew.

On the other side, waited a shrouded figure ::

[Helenias QDunn]

Did you ever had the experience of travelling along, comfortable and relxed, when quite suddenly you get your feet cut from under you? That was what I was like at that point in time.

"Look, I lied to you so that I could protect the identity of......Marcus Q'Dunn......your husband. Yes, Helenias, that was your husband....."

I was horrified. I could not move or think. Thought came back and I realised I was gaping. I saw Xazor looking at the ground in supplication.The poor young woman, now I understood!

"Xazor... look at me" I said in a gentle voice. "I'm not going to do anything to you.... just answer me. You seem to know him. Does he still...?"

I left the question hanging.

[Xazor]

Xazor was shocked that Helenias was not upset with her. When she spoke, she heard the gentleness in her voice and knew she was sincere....and she knew the question she wanted to ask.

Yes! Yes he loves you! He loves you so much and wanted to know why you did not want to go to Xa Fel to meet him! He wanted to see you so very much......he has always loved you!

She exclaimed with great enthusiasm. She wanted Helenias to see just how much he loved her....but her words could only express so much.....

[Marcus QDunn]

He got to the peak first - a small flat area of a few square meters. There was a breeze that was ruffling his hair and his cloak, while he waited. Not long however, another figure seemed to float and stepped lightly onto the pinnicle as well. Being as dark as it was, Marcus took out a portable glow device, flicked it on and dropped it in the centre of the area. The light lit up a dignified old man, who held himself regally.

The memories came back. He first knew of this man as a different name years ago.

"The years are weighing heavily on you Anbira....and it seems I was right. Only you could decide what your destiny was and you had to follow it". Marcus spoke as his real self, soft and with an accent that marked him as not a native Basic speaker.

The thought occured to hi... if Anbira had changed since he had seen him last, then what would Anbira be thinking, seeing someone who fundamentally looked different to the Darth Turbogeek of years past?

[Anbira Hicchoru]

And you...Marcus Q'Dunn...seem to be a changed man, indeed.

:: The face and voice were wrong...but it WAS him. The aura, and the thoughts in his mind. ::

As for my destiny...it seems I was granted freedom from a neverending cycle. I cannot avenge my past without succumbing to it. I can only serve the Jedi, and let my deeds now speak of my true nature.

[Marcus QDunn]

"More precisely Anbira, I have returned to what I truly am. Deceptions and blinds are removed and you see me as I really I am. I am not Darth Turbogeek, I am not Hunter, nor am I Tohmahawk. Yes, I've been many identities here and even a clone took my place and won much glory as Turbogeek. But even you know now, in the end no matter the guise, you have to know and show your true self."

Marcus stepped forward extending his hand. "So I introduce my real self to you finally"

[Anbira Hicchoru]

I have sought you long, for many years now. The Jedi who showed me redemption, that I have only so recently accepted.

:: Anbira's hand clasped Marcus's, his dark eyes staring intensely ::

Your arrival could not be more timely. Even now, great unseen forces are preparing, moving, and growing.

:: Anbira's voice was graver than his aged face ::

Dark forces, Marcus. Of such terrible fury as we only faced in the old times.

[Marcus QDunn]

"I know. Maybe not the ones you are thinking of, but I know of great evil stirring and growning. It's shadow grows. It has lieutenants and sevants we have only dreamed of until now. It stirs... I feel it in the earth I step on. But yet, while there are some willing to stand, there is hope."

His deep and powerful gaze swept upon Anbira's, seeming to piece his inner soul.

"Are you standing agaisnt it?"

[Anbira Hicchoru]

I stand against it. But if I stand alone, then I am doomed to fall.

:: Anbira removed a rather worthless looking green stone from his pocket, holding it to where Marcus could see it ::

Destiny has appointed me to carry the crux of all evil.

:: Anbira's voice recoiled with loathing ::

The Laenos Lith. An artifact as old as time, and now a vessel of wickedry. I must carry it into the heart of our enemies, and destroy it there.

:: He closed his eyes ::

But its corruption grows, and cleansed as I am, even I can feel it in my heart. Even to wield it in the name of the Jedi, I would become an agent of Evil.

I would become the Angel of Death, once more.

:: He once again returned the artifact to his pocket ::

If I turn, you must destroy me, old friend. Our allies are few, and the hour is late. The Jedi cause cannot afford another enemy.

[Marcus QDunn]

"Really?"

He had never heard of such a thing. But then again, there was the jewel he possessed, locked away in secret. So who was to say what was possible?

"I dont think your going to turn... not again. But lets not speak of evil, not now. Not at our meeting. There is other itmes and places where destruction what would do us harm will be bought forward. For now I would hear of what is happening in the Jedi. And also.... the woman in the Council Room. Who was that?"

[Anbira Hicchoru]

The Jedi Order grows...its ranks fill with potential.

:: Anbira walked across the pinnacle with Marcus, discussing matters ::

Some are lost, but more fill the voids left behind. I am confident with strong leadership, they will become proper guardians of peace and justice.

:: He stopped at the second question ::

The woman is Helenias, Marcus. You do not recognize her?

[Marcus QDunn]

He allowed his head to drop... and if if his face could be seen, his eyes were wet with moisture. For a moment he allowed his emotions to master him as he gave a quiet and tearful thanks to the God he prayed to, before looking up, into th distance.

"She's been taken from me for so long, she's seemed to be dead for 10 years. When Xazor told me.... I could not even dare to hope it was true. I thought it had to be an imposter. Now that I have seen her for myself - I dont know what to think. I dont know what to say. Beyond all hope, she's alive... and right here, a Jedi! When did she do that?"

[Anbira Hicchoru]

Within the past year.

:: Anbira allowed his comrade space to reconcile his emotions ::

[Marcus QDunn]

Within the year.....?

"Tell me of her! What is she like? Does she serve the Jedi ideal? How strong in the Force is she?"

He faced Anbira.

"I know i could ask her.... but..... I need some time to truly accept this. But I would listen to what you would say now"

[Anbira Hicchoru]

She is standoffish and brash, yet quick to action. I find myself at odds with her judgments often, but she serves the Jedi ideal faithfully. Almost zealously. Her power in the force is strong. With training, and perhaps humility, she can perhaps become a powerful Master.

[Marcus QDunn]

Marcus had to grin.

"That sounds so familar. Tell me. In the early days of this Order, do you remeber a Padawan much like that? Brash, confident almost to the point of arrogance, powerful in the Force almost beyond all others? Who took things into his own hands and defied the Council constantly? But believed fiercely in the Light and was willing to fight to the end for that? We were all like that at one time Anbira, some more than other"

He puased, thought, then commenced speaking again.

"Sometimes, it's what's needed. Look at me. I am a Warlord. I was ranked that by Rmaio before I became a Master. It is what is needed. There has only even been three Warlords... two fel into darkness. Do you think that if there was a time of peace I would be needed? There was a old man Anbira, older than you whom the Force chanced to bring into my path. He was wise beyond measure. He told me that my time was coming and I would have to become what I am destined to be. It was his words that made me stay away from here... and if it wasn't for the chance of seeing Helenias tonight, I would have left again. Who is on the Council now?"

[Anbira Hicchoru]

Master Yogurt, AmazonBabe, and myself, you know.

Others are Akrabbim, a powerful illusion adept, Morgan Evanar, a master of the senses, Navaria Tarkin, an insightful prodigy and aspiring teacher, Nichos Marr, an excellent representative of the order, and Warren Azalin, who is responsible for the teaching of many of our newest pupils.

[Helenias QDunn]

I grabbed Xazor, who recoiled... But it was only so I could hug her.

"Oh Xazor... may you be forever blessed. You've bought me something more precious thaan I could ever have imagined"

I released the younger woman, excitement showing in my eyes.

"Where did he go? Do you know?"

[Xazor]

Xazor shook her head.

Um.......I can't take you to him right now. No......he wants to see you too, but right now he must tend to other things before he can see you. Let's leave here for now......and I'll.....arrange a meeting for you two! Yes, that is a perfect idea! Go get ready to go.....and I'll be back at your room in two hours to get you......alright?

Xazor smiled and took Helenias's hand and led her out of the Council Chambers, closing the doors behind her as the auto lights shut off.

[Helenias QDunn]

That sounded good to me.... except for something in my heart that spoke.

"That sounds good.... but can you find him? He's a master of remaining hidden if he wishes"

[Xazor]

Xazor nodded and smiled reassuringly.

Yes...I can find him. We share a life bond and I know where he will be...

She smiled gently once again.

[Marcus QDunn]

"An intersting selection of beings on the Council, I must say. But of the future Anbira - what can you see? Do you see hope? Do you think the Jedi are strong again?"

[Helenias QDunn]

I grabbed Xazor on the shoulder, bringing her to a stop.

"Could you just repeat what you just said? A life bond? How did this come about? How does it work?"

[Xazor]

Xazor looked down at her friend's hand on her shoulder as she was pulled to a halt. She smiled gently as she gathered her thoughts to explain this.

A life bond is a deep connection between two people......deeper than most others are connected. It is usually something established between mates, or family members such as a parent and a child or a brother and a sister. A life bond is something that you must get used to with time.....like background noise. You will be able to know what the other person is thinking whenever you want to know.....and you will be able to know where they are, even across many many miles. You are capable of sharing your pain with them also, as how our came about. I was about to die, and could not fight the toll my injuries were taking on me after a battle. Marcus, whom I befriended, took on my pain and sent us both into an illusion where we carried on as normal, but outside of that he was struggling with my anguish to keep me alive, just enough so that I could recover on my own and not die. Because of that deep connection, a life bond was established. I had the choice to accept or deny it, and I accepted it. Now it is something that is with me until I die.....for that is the only way to break a life bond......death. If he was to die tomorrow, I would feel it......almost as if I too were dying, and it would leave me severely devitalized for days. That is how the life bond works.....

She thought over everything she had said, thinking back over her words to make sure she didn't forget anything. She did not think she had, and she was confident in her answer......

[Anbira Hicchoru]

The Jedi are indeed strong...but in a precarious situation.

:: Anbira closed his eyes ::

There are those with the potential I once had, and my precarious aversion to darkness. If they are not warded over by those with experience, they could be seduced by evil.