Eye Of The Needle (Star Wars)

Chapter 9: Bela Vistal

My jaw dropped when I heard the news. I glanced over at Koltav who looked devastated. "...And my brother?"

"He's alive. Korste was taken to the hospital." Master Allie informed us.

Koltav sighed in relief. "Thank the Force."

Master Allie's worried look then changed into a much more stern and pissed off look. Uh-oh. That's it folks...I'm in huge trouble. She crossed her arms before speaking. "What in the name of the Force were you thinking?! You left Korste alone! He could've died in that fire that the Drall Patriots caused. What were you doing here?!"

Before I could think of a rational answer that was partially true so I could get out of this mess, Koltav beat me to it. "It was me, Jedi Master. I snuck out of the hotel, wanting to get some time away from everything. I arrived here to let Storm's grandmother know I was leaving so she could tell Storm. However before I could leave, Storm managed to find me, stopping me from going anywhere else."

I looked over to see my grandma staring at Koltav in awe. Master Allie sighed as she looked at Koltav with a disappointed look. "You should've stayed at the hotel. We were sent to Republic to help you, to protect you. I understand that you wish to have a moment of privacy, but unfortunately that's a luxury that we can't afford to give you. I promise you that Storm and I are doing our best to get to the bottom of this."

Koltav nodded. "Of course. Forgive me for my irrational behavior."

"I forgive you, Diktat. And as long as this doesn't happen again we won't have any problems." Master Allie informed him before turning towards me with a proud look. "And as for you Storm, I'm glad you were able to stop the Diktat in time before he could go through with his irrational plan."

I gave her a nod as I offered a smile. "Thank you, Master."

"Now come, I believe it's best if we visit Korste." Master Allie suggested. 

As Master Allie, R3, grandma, Koltav, and I walked towards the hospital, Koltav and I walked behind my grandma who was behind Master Allie. I couldn't help but feel guilty. Koltav took the blame for me...again. And I couldn't help but ask why?

"Why do you keep covering for me?" I questioned. "You know very well that it was my fault. I'm the one to blame."

"Yes, but I hate seeing you not smile. Whenever Jedi Master Allie is disappointed in you, I see you beat yourself up more than necessary. It breaks me to see you that way." Koltav explained, causing my heart to flutter.

I then glanced over at my grandma to see her mouthing me the words. "He's a keeper." I tried not to smile, but I failed. I looked back at Koltav who was content upon seeing me smile.

"There's that beautiful smile." Koltav commented.

I couldn't help but blush at his comment, not expecting him to say anything of the sort. Once we arrived at the hospital, they showed us to where Koltav's room was. He was hooked up with IVs, yet he looked alright to me. His eyes lit up as soon as he saw us. "Koltav! Storm! Thank the stars you're both alright." 

"We're glad to see you as well, brother." Koltav replied with a relieved look.

"How are you feeling?" I inquired.

"I'm fine. It's Jedi Master Allie who insisted I be brought to the hospital." Korste said, waving it off. 

"If I found you any later then you would've been in serious trouble." Master Allie reminded him.

Korste nodded as he wore a grim look. "Yes, I know...thank you again Jedi Master Allie."

Master Allie bowed. "We'll leave you to rest. We'll return tomorrow."