Always in Motion is the Future I: A Star Wars AU Story

Chapter X

The sun had long since set when Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, and Anakin stood before the Council in the center of the chamber, with Quinlan and Aayla standing across from each other at the doorway, similar to their earlier meeting.

"It appears your analysis was correct, Master Qui-Gon," Plo Koon intoned. "The Force is indeed strong with the boy. His midi-chlorian count is a sure indicator of that."

"He is to be trained then?" Qui-Gon inquired.

Many of the Council members exchanged glances with each other.

"No," Mace said aloud. Anakin's gaze fell, looking crestfallen. Quinlan and Aayla looked similarly so; Obi-Wan was torn as how to feel. Yes, the boy was undeniably strong, and if trained, could be a powerful Jedi, but no less, he knew this was what was going to happen. Both Masters Windu and Yoda cited the boy's age and how his irregular upbringing clouded his future in their eyes, seemingly ending any debate. This made Qui-Gon's declaration all the more stunning.

"I will train him. I take Anakin Skywalker as my new Padawan."

Dead silence. Few beneath the rank of Master dared refute the will of the Council, which more often than not was final. Unfortunately for Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon numbered among those few.

Yoda broke the silence with a firm but level voice. "An apprentice you have Obi-Wan. Impossible it is for you to take a second."

"It is forbidden by the precepts of our Order," Yarael Poof noted.

"Then I nominate Padawan Kenobi for Knighthood." Qui-Gon replied without missing a beat.

Obi-Wan did a double take and found himself blushing deep red at now being the center of attention; as confident as he was in his own skills, he hardly felt ready for taking the Trials.

"Our own counsel we will keep on who is ready, Master Qui-Gon," Yaddle answered in response to this sudden declaration.

"Now is not the time for this," Master Eeth Koth added. "We have received word from the Queen that she intends to return to Naboo. She intends to take back her world by peace or by war. She has worked out a deal with Lieutenant Governor Tarkin of Eriadu, and he will bring his militia to reinforce. This puts pressure on the situation with the Federation, and may heat the confrontation."

"This may also draw out the Queen's attacker," Master Tiin added. "Events are moving far too fast for this to be coincidence. Master Qui-Gon, you will take your Padawan, along with Quinlan Vos and Padawan Secura to Naboo to protect the Queen and unravel the mystery of this assassin. This will help us unravel the mystery of the Sith."

"Young Skywalker's fate will be decided later," Yoda concluded.

Qui-Gon stood firm. "I brought Anakin here, so he must stay in my charge. He has nowhere else to go."

"He is your ward, Qui-Gon," Mace answered calmly. "We will not dispute that."

"Train him not," Yoda emphasized. "Take him with you, but train him not!"

"Protect the Queen," Master Piell instructed, "but do not intercede if it comes to war until we are approved by the Senate."

"Go," Yoda bade, "and may the Force be with you."

The four Jedi and Anakin bowed, and left the Council chamber.

*

The Pride of Theed shone deeply in the city lights of Coruscant, reflecting the neon-lighted advertisements and passing lights of speeders. The Jedi had arrived before the Queen had, ensuring there would be no delay on their part. Qui-Gon was deep in conversation with Obi-Wan, as Quinlan and Aayla looked on with Artoo.