bond8

Title: A Bond Of Friendship: Story 8: A New Begining (Part One)
Author:Angel5000
Rating: PG
Spoilers: There may be a few for the JA series but not very many.

Archive: Anywhere � but please ask first!
Disclaimer: All the information I have used about the Jedi Council Members (the facts etc) I found at Wolfies Den and was also available at The Official Star Wars Site. It is indeed true information and I take no credit for it. All the characters of my story belong to George Lucas. Any characters you don�t recognize from the Star Wars movies or the JA stories are ones that I have made up.

Special Thanks: I want to thank Padawan Jinx, Cassia and Jenny (okblue25) for their help with this story and for pressing me to finish it. I also want to thank everyone else who has written me reviews and emails on previous stories begging me to complete this one and for those who have encouraged me. Thanks guys!!

Summary: Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon have just returned to the Temple with Obi-Wan�s new found sister, Cassiono. In the last story it ended with Obi-Wan blacking out and now Cassiono must discover what it is that is slowing killing her brother and at the same time must try and find a way to remain at the Temple.

Note: I am messing up the whole �Obi�s family� thing. (Read the note on ABF7 to completely understand). I am also not following the JA series. Some events are the same but yet at the same time there are many that are different. If you are confused at all please email me with your questions and I�ll try and help unconfused you! Thanks ~Angel5000

 A Bond of Friendship Series:
A Bond of Friendship
A Bond of Friendship: Story 2: A Temple Visit
A Bond of Friendship: Story 3: Deaths Door
A Bond of Friendship: Story 4: Sad Days
A Bond of Friendship: Story 5: A Birthday Forgotten
A Bond of Friendship: Story 6: Everything Turns Out Okay
A Bond of Friendship: Story 7: A Fight For Life
A Bond of Friendship: Story 8: A New Beginning
More To Come!!

* * * * * * *

The darkness was overwhelming and it seemed to crush him. It pressed tight around the boy, suffocating and overpowering him. The Force was useless and try as he might, the fifteen-year old couldn�t get out of this great sea of darkness. Where am I? He wondered to himself as he struggled for air. Master where are you? He called out into the blackness. Before he could receive an answer however, he was hit by waves of dizziness and nausea. Soon he drifted off into a world of unconsciousness, an obscurity filled with frightening dreams and visions of destroyed hopes�

 The Clinic was busy as Healers rushed around, hoping to discover why this boy had suddenly lost consciousness when arriving at the Temple. Only three figures were immobile, two by choice and the third for unknown reasons. The first two, Cassiono Alaok and Qui-Gon Jinn, sat beside a bed in which a third, very still, Obi-Wan Kenobi lay. Cassiono had barely moved from the spot in the last two days, not even when the Council wished to speak with her would she leave his side. When Qui-Gon had suggested going back to his quarters to rest she had fixed him with a glare and said, �If you can sit here with him because he�s your Padawan then I most certainly can sit here with him because he is my brother.� It had made sense and Qui-Gon hadn�t argued any further. Instead he had sat with her, taking turns holding the boy�s hand and mostly offering support to each other.

 Qui-Gon watched as Cassiono held Obi-Wan�s hand and begged him to wake up, telling him of all the fun things they could do once he did. �Please Brother, I don�t know what is wrong with you but please wake up! I just got here and I need someone to show me around. Besides, Master Jinn is awfully upset about this whole thing. The entire Temple is actually; you�ve had visitors all day long. Of course the Healers wouldn�t let them in but I did hear names. Reeft stopped by with a Calamarian girl named Bant and one other boy; Garen Muln was his names I think. Another girl, a Padawan named Kami Ten�Muyo, stopped by with her Master Kith. They were both real worried about you. Please Obi-Wan, can�t you see people are worried. We need you to wake up!� Cassiono begged quietly, tears filling her eyes.

 Gently Qui-Gon placed his hand on Cassiono�s shoulder, �Cassiono the Jedi Council wants to speak with us. This time we cannot refuse.� He said quietly.

 Cassiono nodded in understanding, they couldn�t keep the Council waiting any longer. Whatever Obi-Wan�s plan for her was would have to wait until later. �I�ll be back Brother. Don�t worry, I�m here for you.� She whispered in his ear before turning back to Qui-Gon. �Will it take long Master Jinn?� She asked.

 He shook his head, �I don�t know for sure. They have a lot they need to know. Luckily they only want your information and aren�t expecting a mission report. You need not worry, Kami has offered to remain with Obi-Wan while we are away.� Qui-Gon was doing his best to reassure the twelve-year old that all would be okay yet he could see she wasn�t buying it all.

 Ten minutes later the two stood before the Council, Cassiono in front and Qui-Gon behind her to offer support.

 �You are Cassiono Alaok?�

 The question caught the girl by surprise. Shouldn�t they know who I am? She wondered. Out loud she answered, �Yes, I am Cassiono Alaok, Obi-Wan Kenobi�s sister.�

 �So sure of this you are?� Yoda asked quietly.

 Cassiono looked shocked; didn�t they believe her? �Yes, I am sure of it. Lorenda and Master Jinn told me so. They wouldn�t lie to me.� She replied hastily.

 �Lie no, but mislead perhaps.�

 The girl looked at Qui-Gon before turning back to the Council members. She wanted to object but was smarter than that. Instead she bowed her head slightly and remained quiet.

 �Ready to give in so easily child?� Adi Gallia asked from her seat.

 Cassiono looked up, �To argue would be to no avail. It is disrespectful and rude, not to mention useless. I know I cannot change your minds. That is easily readable, you all are very confident that what you believe is right.�

 �You are quite perceptive. We are rather confident but it isn�t because we think Obi-Wan isn�t your brother it�s actually quite the opposite. Instead we are very sure that he is your brother. The questions were asked to see what kind of a personality you have and to see how fully you believed it yourself. Your have an attitude of respect and that works in your favor.� Mace replied.

 Cassiono ducked her head slightly. She was embarrassed now. Qui-Gon sensed the embarrassment but didn�t say anything. There was nothing he could do.

 �Cassiono we have some questions we would like to ask you.� Depa Billaba said. When the girl nodded her understanding she continued, �First of all we want to know what you were doing in the Codani II prison camp and who brought you there.�

 �I was brought to the camp along with my adoptive aunt, Lorenda, and her son, Jozu. They wanted us because the man in charge, The Eldero, was looking for my half-brother, Maktall. Some of The Eldero�s guards brought us there.� Cassiono replied.

 �Could you please explain the �special talents� that Master Jinn has told us about?� Ki-Adi-Mundi asked.

 �Wishing.�

 �Wishing?�

 �Yes wishing. When I make a wish and think about it a lot there is a very large chance that it will come true. Back on Codani II, while we were in the prison, I made a wish that Obi-Wan and Reeft�s pain would stop for an hour at least. A few minutes later they passed out and didn�t awake for an hour. There have been other times it has happened too.� She said with a small smile.

 �Describe the other things you can do.� Qui-Gon said quietly

 �I can project thoughts and sense certain things. When Jozu was scared I would hold him in my arms and think of consoling and tranquil thoughts and he would become calm. Also when people that are especially evil are near I can sense it. Back in the prison I could tell when the Information Seekers were coming to hurt us.� She responded.

 �Other things you can do, are there?� Yoda asked.

 �Not at the moment sir. But Obi-Wan said I was sensitive to the Force and I learn quickly.�

 The Council members decided to test this themselves and each took a turn at prodding her with the Force. They weren�t surprised to see that she was Force-sensitive. Being Obi-Wan�s sister gave her a very good chance of having Force-Sensitivity.

 �You are Force-Sensitive, this is true.� Mace said reluctantly, �But how old are you?�

 �Twelve sir.� Cassiono said quietly. She knew that she was too old, several people had told her that already but there wasn�t anything wrong with wishing was there?

 Mace nodded, �We must digest this information. You may leave now and when we have reached a conclusion we will inform you.�

 Cassiono bowed and turned to leave the room but Qui-Gon remained in the same place after bowing.

 �Have something else you wish to say, do you Qui-Gon?� Yoda asked.

 �Yes my Master, I do. I would like the Council to grant Cassiono sanctuary here. That and I want to fulfill her aunt�s wish that she be trained in the Jedi arts.� Qui-Gon said.

 �Trained as a Jedi? She is twelve, too old to be trained and too young to be a Padawan.� Mace replied.

 �True, but couldn�t she train as a Healer? Her senses are excellent and back on Codani II she helped in the healing of Reeft and Obi-Wan.�

 �Wish to be a Healer do you?� Yoda asked the girl.

 �I am ready to do whatever it takes to remain here. Any type of training that you are prepared to offer I am willing to accept. My aunt, Lorenda, wanted me to be trained in the ways of the Jedi and I too wish that. If I cannot become a Knight as my brother I wish to become a Healer.� She replied quietly yet confidently.

 �We must speak with the Healers before we decide whether or not you can train. But for the moment we do grant you sanctuary here at the temple. Until permanent quarters can be assigned you can remain with Qui-Gon. You will remain under his care for the time being.� Mace turned his attention to the previously mentioned Master, �Does this satisfy you?� He asked.

 �Yes, thank you.� Qui-Gon bowed, as did Cassiono, and they turned to leave. He was just leaving when Yoda called him back.

 �Get some rest you should. Worrying about your Padawan, no good it will do. Only make things worse it will.�

 Qui-Gon nodded, �Thank you Master, I will do my best.� With that he gave one last bow and left the room.

 * * * * * *

 Cassiono glanced around the quarters curiously. After the Council had told her that she was to remain under Qui-Gon�s care, he had immediately taken full responsibility. In a sense, he had become her parent. Right away he had ordered her to return with him to the quarters he shared with Obi-Wan, quarters that were now hers as well. She had started to object but when the Jedi Master fixed her with one of his �don�t-argue-with-me-because-you�ll-find-yourself-in-a-lot-of-trouble� looks she changed her mind.

 Now that they were here she wondered what he expected her to do. And where did he want her to put her things? There wasn�t much of course, a single bag that held everything she owned, but if she were to remain here for awhile she wanted a place of her own where she could put it. As far as Cassiono could tell there were two bedrooms, a Refresher, a small kitchenette and a common room, or living room. It was small but cozy.

 �The second room is Obi-Wan�s. You can put your things in there for the time being. I�m sure he won�t mind as long as no one starts rearranging his belongings.� Qui-Gon said, interrupting the girl�s thoughts.

 With a small nod she hurried to dispose of her belongings quickly. What she really wanted was to get back to the Clinic and be with Obi-Wan. When he wakes up I plan on being there! She thought to herself, as she tossed her bag onto the bed.

 When Cassiono reentered the common room she found Qui-Gon studying some datapads at his desk. �Could we go back to the Clinic now Master Jinn?� She asked quietly, not wanting to disturb him.

 �We�ll return in a little while. I was ordered to get some rest and take a break and you should do the same. Take a warm shower and change into some fresh clothes, I�m sure you�ll feel much better afterwards.� He replied.

 �I feel fine. If you want to remain here I could go back by myself.� Cassiono was anxious to return to her brother�s side.

 Qui-Gon looked up at her and shook his head, �Cassiono, he is in the best hands right now. There are no better Healers than those here in the Temple and if anything happens they�ll warn us immediately. Right now I want you to take a shower so that perhaps you can relax a little. Do I have to make that an order?� He asked.

 �No sir, you needn�t make it an order. I just worry is all.� The twelve-year old hurried to do as she was bidden without causing any more problems. She had to remember that she wasn�t in the care of her aunt anymore and they weren�t on Codani. The medical help on Codani II had been minimal since they were rebuilding the planet but here they had everything they could, or would, ever need.

 Forty-five minute later she again reemerged from Obi-Wan�s room. This time she wore a loose garment similar to that of the Jedi, but not exactly the same. Cassiono refused to wear something that belonged to a culture or group to which she didn�t belong�yet. Only if she were trained in the Jedi arts would she wear the garments of the Jedi. That was what Lorenda had told her to do before she had left and that was what Cassiono planned on doing.

 Qui-Gon looked up from his desk and smiled, �Do you feel better now?� He asked.

 �Yes sir, you were right. The shower did help me. I�m beginning to feel weary though.� She replied with a smile of her own.

 �I thought that you would. The warm water helped you relax and now your body�s fatigue is starting to take its toll on you. If you�d like you could rest on the sleep couch.� Qui-Gon said.

 Cassiono shook her head a little, �I�d like to go see Obi-Wan again before I go to bed. If it�s alright with you I�ll go down to the Clinic and stay there for a few hours.�

 Qui-Gon watched her carefully before nodding, �That will be alright. You know the way by now I think. Return back here in a few hours so that you can get some rest.�

 Cassiono gave a short bow and hurried from the room.

 Less than ten minutes later she was entering the door of the Clinic. She expected to see the Padawan girl, Kami, in the room but instead a strange boy was there. This boy was one she�d never seen before. He was about the same age as Obi-Wan. His white hair was pulled back into a ponytail and at the moment he was messing around with some of the machines attached to her brother�s bed. All of a sudden Cassiono felt a strange movement around her, and she could sense iniquity in the boy.

 �Who are you, what are you doing and why are you here?� She asked as she stepped inside.

 The boy looked up. His shock was easily seen until it dissolved into a face of calm, �My name is Bruck Chun, I am Healer Bash�ta�s Apprentice. If you must know I am here because my Trainer, or Master, has ordered me to remain with Obi-Wan while she is on a break. We are worried about him. This is his second time in the Clinic for unknown reasons, and the second time he has lost consciousness for long periods of time. Now, if I may, who are you?� He asked, changing the subject, �There are no visitors allowed for the patient.�

 �I am Cassiono Alaok, Obi-Wan�s sister. I�ve been granted sanctuary here and until I receive my own quarters I�m staying with Master Jinn.� She replied. There was something about this boy that disturbed her. She could sense something bad in him, not completely evil like the Information Seekers, but something else�

 �You should go. Obi-Wan needs his rest.� Bruck said, trying to convince her to leave.

 �Needs his rest? He�s been unconscious for two days! How much more rest could he get?� She didn�t need the Force to tell her that Bruck wanted her out of here.

 �Obi-Wan needs�� Bruck trailed off as Obi-Wan started to go into convulsions. Before he could respond, however, Cassiono had rushed to her brother and placed her hands on his chest.

 �What are you doing? Get away from him!� Bruck shouted at the girl.

 �Shut up and turn on the stabilizers you idiot!� Cassiono snapped back, not taking her eyes off Obi-Wan for a moment. The girl didn�t know how to manipulate the Force yet but she did know how to �wish�. Master Jinn had told her earlier he thought that when she made a wish she was actually unconsciously manipulating the Force to her will, so that�s what she planned on attempting to do. I wish Obi-Wan were okay! Obi-Wan! Brother wake up! She cried out silently. As she concentrated she felt as though something were reaching out and holding onto her, but not physically. Instead it seemed as though someone had grasped hold of her mind and was holding on for dear life. Cassiono was beginning to panic when she felt a third presence join her. Almost immediately she felt a calm wash over her and a few minutes later Obi-Wan�s body stopped trembling.

 Slowly Cassiono opened her eyes and was surprised to see Qui-Gon standing across from her, his hands on Obi-Wan as well. �Master Jinn? What are you doing here?� She asked.

 �I felt Obi-Wan�s mind link with yours through our Master/Padawan bond. Through the bond I could feel your panic and rushed down here to help. What happened?� He asked after explaining.

 �I don�t know. I came in and-� Cassiono began before being interrupted.

 �She came in here and was being rather disruptive. I was giving Obi-Wan his hourly check-up when she came in. Of course I told her she�d need to wait outside until I was done but she insisted that she be allowed in here. When I started to object she began to yell rather loudly at me. Not much later he began to tremble and shake. It was practically a seizure. I started to set up the stabilizers as she was panicking. Finally through her fear she heard me yelling at her to get some help or do something progressive rather than just stand there. That�s when she went to Obi-Wan and did whatever it was she was doing when you came in.� Bruck said. He was very convincing sounding and Qui-Gon was quite tempted to believe him.

 �That�s not true! You lie!� Cassiono snapped.

 �What do you mean I lie? I was raised here in the Temple where we are taught from an early age not to lie. You, on the other hand have grown up someplace else with who knows what as influences and I wouldn�t be surprised if you had a terrible habit of lying! You�re a troublemaker and I�m not surprised that you�re related to oafy over there!� Bruck snapped.

 Cassiono�s eyes flashed with anger and she lunged at him. Had Qui-Gon not chosen that moment to step, in the two children would have been involved in an awful fistfight. Cassiono had been trained in self-defense from an early age because of an over-protective aunt and Bruck had been learning combat for a long time himself. Truly it would have terrible fight. Instead Cassiono and Bruck found themselves being held apart by Qui-Gon�s strong arms.

 �You two,� He said giving them both a hard look, �are acting like four year-olds. You, Bruck, should not provoke Cassiono, especially with information that you do not have proof of. And you,� He said turning to the twelve year-old, �should not react to his taunts with anger. It is not the way of the Jedi.�

 �She isn�t a Jedi, Master Jinn. I don�t think it�s right to lecture her on those things when she probably never will be one anyway.� Bruck said with a smirk. It was at that moment that Healer Bash�ta decided to enter the room.

 �What�s going on?� She asked. Bruck had been in trouble before and this scene was unfortunately too familiar.

 Qui-Gon informed her of the problem and Bash�ta turned grave, �Go to your quarters Bruck. We will speak of this later.� Qui-Gon released his grip and the boy left the room scowling. Bash�ta turned back to Qui-Gon and Cassiono. �You mustn�t mind him dear. His downfall is his anger, just like Obi-Wan. We are working on it but our progress is slow. Don�t worry about Obi-Wan, I think he�ll be okay. This isn�t the first time this has happened. In a couple of days he�ll wake up. If you�d like, you can stay here for a couple more hours. I need to speak with Bruck, I�ll be back later.� Bash�ta said.

 �Thank you Bash�ta. We�ll stay here for a little while before returning to our quarters.� Qui-Gon said with a reassuring smile. Bash�ta hurried from the room and Qui-Gon turned to Cassiono who was standing beside her brother�s bed. �Are you okay?� He asked.

 She nodded, �I�m fine. Forgive me for my outburst. It isn�t like me to become angry like that, but he insulted my brother and my family! Master Jinn, I didn�t cause the problems he said I did!�

 �I am sure you didn�t. For years Bruck has been in conflict with Obi-Wan and now it seems he dislikes you too.� Qui-Gon said quietly, �Come on Cassiono, there is nothing more we can do here.�

 The girl nodded and followed Qui-Gon back to their quarters for what they hoped to be a good nights rest. Little did they know what would happen before morning�

 Qui-Gon woke up suddenly as his comlink began to beep insistently. In a single motion he had activated it, �Yes?�

 �This is Bash�ta, Obi-Wan�s starting to wake up, and you need to get here quickly!� She said, her voice was excited yet full of worry.

 �What�s wrong? You sound concerned.� Qui-Gon asked.

 �I�ll speak with you up here. Obi-Wan will want you when he wakes up. Hurry.�

 It took less than a minute for Qui-Gon to be ready to leave. Cassiono had heard the commotion and was ready soon afterwards. The two of them practically ran to the Clinic, doing their best not to wake up the entire Temple. Once there, Cassiono ran to Obi-Wan�s bed and grabbed his hand.

 �Obi-Wan! Oh Brother, you�re awake!� She tried to keep from crying but a few tears got away and trickled down her cheek.

 Weak as he was Obi-Wan couldn�t help but smile a little. Gently he wiped away the tears and brushed her hair from her eyes, �Thank you Sister for saving me again.� He whispered hoarsely.

 Qui-Gon stepped over and took the boy�s other hand, �Welcome back Padawan. You gave us a pretty bad scare there, again. Are you ever going to stop blacking out on me?� The latter was said in a jocular manner but Obi-Wan took it seriously.

 �I�m sorry Master, I don�t know what�s wrong with me.�

 This time it was Qui-Gon�s turn to apologize, �I wasn�t being serious Obi-Wan. I know that you have no power over what your body is doing. Healer Bash�ta thinks that this time it was from the overly stressful situation you had just come out of. Your body is still healing itself from Codani II. This had nothing to do with your previous incident. All of the stress from the past week has been building up and your body overloaded.�

 �Can I go back to our quarters?� Obi-Wan asked hopefully. He hated Clinics. Ever since he blacked out the last time Clinics had given a sense of dread and fear. Right now he just wanted out.

 Qui-Gon turned to Bash�ta and she nodded slightly, �It�s okay with me as long as he doesn�t partake in any extremely stressful or active actions for the rest of the week.�

 That was all Obi-Wan needed to hear. He jumped up quickly, perhaps a little too quickly, and the room started to spin. Carefully he closed his eyes and waited for it to pass before getting up again, this time much slower.

 �Patience Padawan, you needn�t rush.� Qui-Gon quietly admonished.

 �Yes Master, I am aware of that. I just want to get back home.� Home�The Jedi were destined to wander the galaxy, never settling down and never having a real home or a family. For Obi-Wan his home was here, at the Temple, and his family were the Jedi. Home�The word was such a wonderful one. After having spent several days in a Codi prison camp he had just wanted to return to the Temple, where he felt safe and welcomed. Instead he had to spend two days here�right now it would be so wonderful just to go back to his own quarters and sleep in his own bed.

 Cassiono wiped away her tears and gave Obi-Wan a hug, �Let�s go Brother, let�s go home.�

* * * * * * * * * * * *

 The next morning when Cassiono woke up she could hear voices in the kitchen. She was laying on the couch, since she didn�t want to take Obi-Wan�s sleep couch any longer, and by laying real still and listening real hard she could just make out what they were saying.

 �But Master�I know she could do it! She learns quickly, almost as quickly as I did � perhaps a little faster for some things. Cassiono would make a great Healer-Knight.�

 �I know that Obi-Wan, but I seriously doubt the Council will agree. She is nearly thirteen, much too old.�

 �Surely not all the Council members will protest! Jedi Master Eeth Koth is on the Council. He was initially thought to be too old to be trained as a Jedi when he was found, but they changed their minds about him � and look at how good he turned out! He�s a member of the Council! Why shouldn�t they change their minds about Cassiono?� The boy protested.

 �Padawan you must realize that Master Koth was four, not twelve, and he was trained only after showing extreme mental discipline. I don�t think that Cassiono can show the discipline he showed.�

 �Must you always be so pessimistic?� His voice was exasperated and Cassiono could almost feel the frown on Qui-Gon�s face.

 �You had better watch your tone of voice Padawan.� Qui-Gon replied, emphasizing the word Padawan.

 �Forgive me Master for my rudeness. I am worried about my sister, I wish her to remain here and she can only do that under sanctuary at the moment. Sanctuary will only last so long before they will have to interview her again. If and when they find her able to defend herself, or her pursuer is no longer of danger to her, then she will be sent to make a life of her own and I�ll loose her.�

 �I understand how you feel Obi-Wan. I wasn�t being pessimistic, just realistic. Getting your hopes up will only cause a worse downfall if they decide to turn down your request.�

 �If? Master you said if!� The boy nearly shouted.

 �Shh, you�ll wake her! Yes, I said if, there is no concrete reason to believe the Council will agree or disagree. We will just have to hope for the best.� Qui-Gon replied.

 �They�ll agree! They have to agree! When can we ask?� Obi-Wan said insistently.

 �Obi-Wan...�

 �Yes Master, I know. Don�t get my hopes up.� Cassiono had to strain to hear him, as his voice was getting lower, and she concentrated harder than before.

 �Actually, I was going to say �Patience� but that�s fine. Right now we need to...� His voice trailed off and Cassiono realized she had probably been found out.

 Qui-Gon stepped through the door a few seconds later, �Good morning Cassiono.� He said, his voice didn�t have any indication of disapproval but she could never be sure. He was always so calm and his face unreadable.

 �Good morning Master Jinn.� She replied, her voice as calm as she could make it.

 �How did you do that Cassiono?� Qui-Gon asked. �How did you manipulate the Force to enhance your hearing?�

 �Manipulate the Force? I just concentrated as hard as I could and I could hear you two. I don�t know how to use the Force.� She replied.

 �If what you say is true then you automatically, subconsciously maneuver the Force to do your will. In this case, listening in on our conversation.� Qui-Gon�s voice was calm but Cassiono sensed amazement underneath.

 �What does this mean?� Cassiono asked quietly.

 �You have great Jedi potential, Sis!� Obi-Wan interrupted gleefully, �With this information the Council couldn�t refuse her!�

 Qui-Gon shook his head at the boy�s behavior. Obi-Wan was acting like a five year-old that was just told he could have a party! �Obi-Wan�� He said, his voice a warning.

 �Sorry Master.� The boy said with a smile. Even a scolding couldn�t dampen his mood and Qui-Gon knew it.

 Qui-Gon nodded his acceptance, �How about we go to the gym and practice. It has been awhile since our last sparring match. Cassiono,� He said, turning to the twelve-year old, �you can watch us. I cannot teach you anything at the moment but if you keep your eyes open and watch us then you can learn much.�

 �That�s fine with me Master.� Obi-Wan said, hurrying to get his lightsaber.

 A few minutes later the three arrived at one of the Temple Gyms and Cassiono took a seat on the side. She would do her best to learn everything she could with her eyes and ears. Her eyes never left the pair while they warmed up. All around her she could feel something, whispering and swirling around, but although it was felt with her mind it wasn�t felt physically. Cassiono had felt it several times and it confused her, I�ll just have to ask Master Jinn about that when we go back to his quarters.

 It only took Obi-Wan a few minutes before he was warmed up and prepared. Stepping onto the mat he turned toward Cassiono and flashed her a smile before turning back to his Master. �I�m ready Master.�

 Qui-Gon nodded, �We�ll begin with a simple sparring match. Take the defensive stance and parry my attacks.� He instructed. As soon as Obi-Wan was ready Qui-Gon began to attack. At first he went slowly, as he would if he were battling a first year student. Eventually his attacks became quicker and more complicated and Obi-Wan had to concentrate harder to defend himself.

 Cassiono watched in awe as the two battled. It was like a ballet and the Jedi were the dancers. Each move was graceful and smooth. Never once did they seem to hesitate or act sloppily. The girl tried to take everything in as she watched. Someday that could be me. Someday Obi-Wan will teach me how to do that, someday�It was then, while watching Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon duel, that Cassiono decided that she would be come a Jedi if it took her entire life. She would learn how to use the Force and how to act as the Jedi do � she would make Lorenda proud and she would make Obi-Wan even prouder.

 Obi-Wan could feel the hum of the lightsaber in his hands as he brought it up to block another one of his Master�s attacks. The Force surged through him and he could hear it whispering directions to him; dodge, parry, roll, slash�the directions were so loud, so clear. Obi-Wan thought for a moment that he could continue this dance forever but eventually his energy began to wane. He was, after all, still revering from several medical problems. As he began to weaken it seemed that Qui-Gon�s attacks were getting stronger. Pretty soon he knew that he would end up loosing this battle. Perhaps he ought to give in�

 Use the Force Padawan, use it�s energy. You aren�t in this battle to fight � only to defend.

 The words came unexpectedly to Obi-Wan�s mind and he only nodded slightly in acknowledgement before doing as he was told. Silently he wrapped the Force around him in a blanket and called upon it to give him the energy to continue this battle for a little while longer. In a real mission, minutes could be the difference between life and death and he must learn how to use the Force to accomplish his goal. At the moment his goal was nothing more than to stay in this battle a few minutes longer.

 For quite a while the battle continued like this, Obi-Wan pulling on the Force and barely getting enough energy to defend himself, and Qui-Gon never even breaking a sweat as he found newer and more complex ways of attacking. Obi-Wan was nearing the end of his energy when two more figures entered the room. Their Force imprints were familiar and for an instant the boy lost his concentration. That small instant was all Qui-Gon needed and he twisted his lightsaber up in an unexpected movement, catching his Padawan off-guard. Obi-Wan tumbled backward as he attempted to avoid the energy blade. Before he could get up however, his Master pointed the blade at his neck.

 �Kill point.�

 Obi-Wan lay back, panting, and waited. He expected his Master to explain to him what he did wrong and point out his mistakes during their duel. At least that�s what he had always done before.

 Qui-Gon motioned to Cassiono to bring over the towels before offering his hand to the boy on the floor. �You did well Padawan. There were a few flaws,� Here it comes, �Although I don�t think we need to focus on them too much. I�m sure you know what you did wrong and there�s no reason for me to point it out again. Concentration however, is one thing we will need to work on.�

 �Yes Master.� Obi-Wan managed to pant out as he took the towel offered him.

 �Obi-Wan, who is that on the sidelines. They came in during your sparring match just before you fell.� Cassiono whispered.

 �I am aware when they came in, their entrance is the reason I lost my focus. That is Master Kith Chi�yo and Padawan Kami Ten�Muyo. I�m sure you�ve seen them before. While I was in the Clinic I remember hearing your voice through the blackness and their names were mentioned a few times.� Obi-Wan replied.

 �Yes, I met them but I could not remember their names. Have you any idea how many people I�ve met in the past three days? At least a hundred!� The young girl exclaimed.

 Obi-Wan smiled, �Come on, let�s go see what they want.�

 Qui-Gon followed the two children over to the other Jedi Master and his Apprentice. When Kami saw Qui-Gon she immediately bowed, �Hello Master Jinn.� She said quietly. The last time she had seen the Jedi Master, she and Obi-Wan had been in quite a bit of trouble. The girl hoped that he had either forgotten the incident or chose not to let it bother him anymore. Obi-Wan and Cassiono in return, bowed to Kith.

 �Good morning Padawan Kami, Kith. Is there a specific reason you chose this gym, or are you just here by coincidence?� Qui-Gon asked. Although his face was serious they could all hear the smile in his voice.

 �Actually I was informed that you two were in here and wanted to speak with you. I was hoping that while we talk our Padawan�s could have a little sparring match. It�s been a while since Kami�s had someone her own age and level to spar with and I thought Obi-Wan would profit from someone to spar with as well. But it seems that you�ve already taken care of that with your little match there. Don�t you think it�s a little unfair? You, a Jedi Master and one of the best, and Obi-Wan a poor, still recovering Padawan?� Kith teased.

 �He may be still recovering but he held his own out there, pretty well if you ask me. I don�t think he�s too tired for another sparring match but it�s up to him. What do you say Padawan? Think you could handle another one?� Qui-Gon asked.

 �Give me a couple of minutes of rest and I�ll be fine.� Obi-Wan replied, leading Cassiono and Kami towards the bench a few feet away.

 As soon as they were away from their Master�s, Kami turned towards Obi-Wan and gave him a hug. �I was so worried about you!� She exclaimed before turning and wacking him hard on the chest.

 �What was that for?!� Obi-Wan exclaimed.

 �That was for scaring me to death! Don�t you ever blackout like that on me again Obi-Wan Kenobi!! I was out there in the docking bay waiting for you and when you fell down the ramp I thought you�d died! I nearly had a heart attack!� She exclaimed.

 �You think that�s bad?� Cassiono interrupted, �I�m his sister and I�ve known him less than a month. I didn�t know of his previous incident and so I thought I was loosing a brother just as I found him!�

 Kami laughed, �I know it isn�t funny what happened but it is funny that we were both so worried. I know we�ve met but you probably don�t remember me well.� She extended her hand, �Kami Ten�Muya. I�m Obi-Wan�s friend and would be honored if I could be yours too.�

 Cassiono smiled and took her hand, �I would be honored to be your friend Kami.�

 Obi-Wan grinned, �Great � now that you two are friends lets have our sparring match Kami. I�ve never dueled with you before and I think it�d be fun to beat you.�

 �Aren�t you the cocky one? Well how about a little bet then? Looser has to do winner�s chores for a week?� Kami proposed. For her it was a great deal. Obi-Wan had less chores than she did, not to mention Cassiono, who would be taking over part of Obi-Wan�s chore list making it even easier.

 Obi-Wan, however, wasn�t as much a fool as Kami seemed to make him out to be, �How stupid do you think I am? Besides the fact that you�d be getting off near scot-free, my Master has forbade me to take bets, dares, wager�s or anything of that nature, after I nearly broke my neck on the high beam. I�m not ready to get myself another lecture. Let�s just spar like good Temple Students.�

 With a grin Kami stepped onto the mat, �Okay hot shot, ready for a real fight?�

 Instead of answering, Obi-Wan took the offensive. He began to attack and Kami quickly took a defensive stance. It was only a matter of minutes before Obi-Wan began to feel his energy slipping and he was forced to switch to defense. As soon as Kami realized he was getting weaker she went offensive. Her attacks were quick and powerful and Obi-Wan could tell that she had been practicing with Master Kith quite a bit to get this good.

 Kith and Qui-Gon watched the sparring match idly while they talked. They were discussing Cassiono and the Council�s decision. As the two Padawan�s fought Qui-Gon made sure to take note of the way Obi-Wan fought.

 �He�s holding his own pretty well, considering.� Kith said, breaking into his companion�s thoughts.

 Qui-Gon nodded, �He is doing well at keeping a hold on his energy. But you didn�t come down here to talk about our Padawan�s sparring abilities. What is it you truly wanted to speak with me about?� Qui-Gon asked.

 Kith smiled at Qui-Gon�s bluntness, �I have heard of your dilemma with Cassiono and I have a suggestion for you. A Healer is a noble profession, that is true, and I�m sure Cassiono would be more than grateful for it, but there could be a problem. At the moment there aren�t very many Healer�s without Apprentices of their own. The oldest Healer-Apprentice is still at least two years from becoming a full Healer. Training to be a Jedi Knight however is also out of the question. She is much too old and the Council has already forbidden that. What about then, a Healer-Knight? Christe Eleison is in the Temple now, she arrived yesterday, and at the moment is without an Apprentice.� Kami finished.

 Qui-Gon nodded thoughtfully, �Obi-Wan has brought the subject to my attention several times. I am afraid the Council wouldn�t agree with the idea though and I don�t want to disappoint Obi-Wan or Cassiono.� He said.

 �If Christe agrees to take Cassiono then I�m pretty sure that the Council too would agree. Why don�t you speak with her?� Kith replied.

 Qui-Gon thought for a moment before responding, �I think I will speak with her, although I�ll avoid telling them,� He motioned towards the children on the mat, �until after I get an answer. If you could monitor the sparring match I�ll go now. When they�re finished Obi-Wan knows what he�s supposed to do.� Qui-Gon said. When Kith nodded his agreement Qui-Gon hurried from the room in search of the famous Healer-Knight.

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