Shadow Desires

Chapter 18

I've been through many searches, but the Jedi was still missing. I walked out of another search area and sat down, exhausted. I looked at the locals gathered nearby, hoping for a clue, anything. Then, I noticed a creature not too far away, standing beside my vehicle.

I squinted, and my heart sank—it was stealing parts from my vehicle.

I jumped to my feet, screaming, "Hey! Hey! You put that back!"

The creature turned, startled, and tried to scramble away, but I lunged forward, grabbing its collar and slamming it against the wall.

"Give me back my part before I cut your tentacles off," I threatened, my voice low with frustration.

The creature closed its eyes, trembling with fear.

"Please, don't hurt me," it begged.

"I know the Jedi you're looking for."

My grip loosened just a fraction, my eyes narrowing.

"What did you say?" I demanded.

The creature swallowed hard, glancing around nervously before whispering, "I can take you to him... but you have to promise not to hurt me."

I studied its face, searching for any hint of deceit. My instincts told me not to trust too easily, but I also couldn't afford to let this lead slip through my fingers.

"Fine," I said, my voice softer but still edged with threat.

"Take me to the Jedi, and maybe I'll let you live."

The creature nodded rapidly, relief washing over its features.

"Follow me," it said, gesturing with a trembling hand.

I released it, but kept close, my hand hovering near my weapon. I had been through too much to let my guard down now. If this creature was lying, it would regret ever laying its hands on my vehicle.

I followed the weird-looking creature and found myself at the end of the road.

"The Jedi lives at the second hill. You'll find him there," said the creature.

Before it could leave, I grabbed the back of its shirt. "You're not going anywhere. You come with me," I said.

We finally reached the second hill. I saw the Jedi's house and peered through its window. I saw a man, almost in meditation, floating in the air. I watched for a moment before turning my head to the door.

I went to the door, my heart pounding as I prepared for what lay ahead.

I knocked lightly, but there was no response. The air was thick with an unsettling calm. I glanced back at the creature, who was standing there nervously, eyes darting around as if it wanted to bolt at any second. I wasn't about to let that happen.

With a deep breath, I pushed the door open. It creaked loudly, echoing in the stillness of the house. Inside, the Jedi remained suspended in the air, seemingly oblivious to my presence. The room was sparse, filled with nothing but a few simple furnishings and an overwhelming sense of tranquility.

I stepped closer, my footsteps quiet but deliberate.

"Jedi," I called out, my voice barely above a whisper.

The man slowly opened his eyes, his gaze sharp and knowing, as if he had been expecting me.

"You seek something," he said, his voice calm, almost otherworldly. His eyes bore into mine, and I felt a shiver run down my spine. This was no ordinary man.

I tightened my grip on my weapon, unsure if I should trust him. "I'm looking for answers," I said, trying to keep my voice steady.

"And you're going to help me."