One of the first.....

[Emerita]

THE BEGINNING



The wind blew coolly, preceding the harsh winter snow that was to soon fill the Highlands of Earth. A small tent made from animal skins sat snugly on a grassy knoll among some tall protective bushes. However, even the sturdy bushes would not protect the tent in extreme winter. From the tent, pain filled and desperate cries of a woman filled the air. Soon the blustering cries of a newborn coming into the world filled the tent. The mother took deep breaths as the pain from the birth subsided. She cried and laughed at the same time as she pulled her infant closer to her chest wiping her face. She looked around the tent which was her home and sighed, knowing that this was no place to raise an infant daughter and despite her survival knowledge, the highlands were very bitter in the winter for anyone to survive. Her husband had been killed a few months earlier by an evil Lord and everything they had worked for was stolen. She was given the chance to be with this man that killed her husband, but she had chosen to be on her own, versus being a slave for this man and bearing his children. She, after all, was a warrior and fought along side of her slain husband. They turned her out thinking that she and the unborn child would surely perish. Although the tent was warm from a small fire, she wrapped the child in a warm furry skin and breastfed her. The beautiful child had blonde curly locks and the bluest eyes that were as clear as the reflection of the sky in a mountain lake. The mother lay down exhausted from the birth and fell into a deep sleep.

Out in the cool evening air a bright light filled the area where the tent stood. It was a great round object with many lights shining down. Steam and ice particles fell from it as it landed softly on the long grass of the hilltop, which swayed like waves on an ocean in the wake of the lighted object. A whirring sound filled the night air and a ramp slowly lowered, showing the interior of the craft. Several small beings with short rounded bodies, long necks and soft friendly eyes walked down the extended ramp. They went in various directions, gathering plants and soil samples. It was a deserted area high atop a small mountain where they knew they would not be seen. Suddenly one of the being’s hand held mechanisms started to beep loudly. The others rushed to see what was happening. They talked among themselves in a strange language. The one with the device looked at the others, “Medichlorians….” The others gasped, “Are you sure? There has never been any found in this system. Where does it stem from…?” The little creature held up his device and pointed it in a sweeping motion around them and spotted the tent down the hill nestled among some trees and bushes. As they slowly approached the tent, the device became louder and louder. The leader carefully pulled back the door flap of the tent and carefully looked in. There, lay sleeping, were the mother and child. The little being crept slowly up to them and held his device over the infant. The device showed a scale on the monitor. The mother showed a medium range on the scale of nine thousand, but the infant went high on the scale at nineteen thousand. The beings gasped, “We have to retrieve them, they will surely die here. This young one has to be tested.” The leader solemnly, with hesitation, nodded his head in agreement. He laid his hand on the mother’s forehead. She was very cold but still alive. She opened her eyes but was too exhausted to be alarmed. Somehow she knew they were here to help although she could not clearly see them. The leader smiled at her. She smiled back and without a word she let the leader take the infant out of her arms and the others helped her up and guided her back to their ship.

The ship lifted off and disappeared into the darkness of space. The mother and child were taken to a small, quiet room. The mother sat quietly looking around with amazement and fear. Surely she and her daughter were dead and this was the afterlife. One of the little beings came over to her with a small device and took her hand. At first she resisted, but when she looked into his eyes, she knew that he was not going to hurt her. She slowly held out her hand. The little being laid the small device on the back of her hand and she felt a slight prick. With a translator embedded into her skin, the mother was able to understand what the beings were saying to her. The little being smiled, “Now we can communicate. I am Thalen….. We had to take you and the child, for you would have surely perished there…… We will not hurt you. You and the child are very special.” The woman looked questionably at the little being, “Special? How could we possibly be special? I am a warrior….nothing more…” The little being smiled, “One should never under estimate their own potential…..” The woman smiled and looked thoughtfully at the little being, “Am I dead… or am I dreaming…. “Neither”, replied Thalen, “You are safely aboard our starship. We could not leave you and the child to die.” Although she was frightened at the site of these strange little beings, she realized that they were not going to harm her or her daughter.

[Emerita]

One of the beings brought the mother some food, “What is your name?” asked Thalen. The mother answered, “Emily” “What have you named the child…” Thalen asked. Emily smiled, “I hadn’t given her a name as yet. She was born only just before you found us.” She looked at her daughter sleeping peacefully in a makeshift cradle that the creatures had provided for her. She smiled, “I shall call her Emerita, after my mother and Thalen….after our savior.” The being smiled, “Then Emerita Thalen it is. After Emily had eaten and drank, she was led to a small pod with a clear top. The being opened it, “Our journey is a very long one and will take many of your years to complete. Our Galaxy is very far away. These chambers let us sleep in a suspended nature until we arrive at our destination. When we awake, it will be as if only a few seconds have passed.” Emily, filled with questions, smiled and silently climbed into the chamber and laid down with Emerita at her side. She cuddled the infant to calm herself, and when she looked into the being’s eyes, she felt comfort. Emily could not slow her breathing down and she felt a little claustrophobic, but soon there was a stream of cool mist flowing over them and she slowly closed her eyes and she and the infant fell into a deep sleep. The ship jumped into hyperspace and flowed along, run by automatic controls. All of the beings were in their stasis chambers sleeping peacefully. All around the ship were smaller chambers filled with live plants and soil samples. Time was not measured here. Time had ended as Emily had known it and she was in awe of everything around her, although not completely convinced that she wasn’t dreaming. The beings had never brought back any living aliens before. They were Botanists and collected only plants. It was against their code to disturb the schientent life forms, but with a Medichlorian count as this one had, they knew they could not leave her there to die.

The ship slowed and lights came on in the stasis chambers, all but the one with the mother and child. The creatures woke up from their deep sleeps and prepared for landing. The leader called out on a com link, “We need a decontamination unit on standby. We have bought two alien beings back with us. It was an extreme emergency and it will all be explained in my report.

There was a bustle among the scientists as they all gathered at the docking bay to see the aliens that the Botanists had brought back. This was a first and a major event. It was thought that it would be too dangerous to bring life forms of this magnitude back from a distant galaxy. Not to mention the possible contamination factor or even if these aliens could survive in this galaxy’s environment. This indeed was a severe infraction of the prime directive of their planet’s code in dealing with gathering specimens of other galaxies...

The chamber containing the mother and child was removed from the ship and taken to the medical facility. The physician in charge looked at the leader of the Botanist ship, “I hope you realize the ramifications of your actions, Thalen.” The Botanist handed the physician the device he had with him. “Yes, I do believe that I do.”, he said confidently. The physician read the device and looked with surprise at the botanist, then went over to a control panel, “Contact Yoda of the Jedi Council on Coursant, high priority……

[Emerita]

Emily sat quietly in a large comfortable room filled with soft light. She was in shock of not ever seeing anything like this before. She accepted her fate and looked around and saw a window. She walked over and looked closely at her reflection in the glass. She slowly reached out and touched the cold glass and quickly pulled her hand away and stepped away from the window. What manner of ice was this to not melt? Being alive on Earth in Fifteenth Century Scotland, all of this was very strange to Emily, “I have to be dead…this has to be the afterlife….” She sighed, “Not at all as I imagined,” she said aloud to herself…She stepped back up to the window and carefully peered out. There were flying objects all around, the likes she had never seen. Surely these beings must be gods. The little being that she recognized as Thalen came in. She turned to him.” What manner of ice is this that does not melt?” The being smiled, “This is not ice Emily, it is called transparent hyperflex. It is cold because the air outside is cold….. You need to get out of those clothes.” He handed her some warm clean clothing for her and her child. The material was soft; nothing like she had ever seen or felt before. Emily gently touched the creature, “Thank you for my and my child’s life. We would have surely died or been killed if you hadn’t intervened.” He smiled at her. “You and your child are special…..she is destined for great things…… You will be leaving for a city called Couresant soon. There you will be instructed on what your destiny shall be.” Emily looked at him thoughtfully and feeling a little afraid, asked, “What is to become of us? We have no way to pay our way here or on Coursant. Will you be returning us to our home?” The little creature smiled. “This is your home now. You will be safe here. There are many things for you to do.” Satisfied for the present, she turned and changed her clothing. When she was done, she turned back to the creature, “Will I ever get to see you again?” Thalen smiled, “Oh, yes, we are friends, you shall always be a part of my existence…. but you will be happier with your own species.” Emily replied with question, “My own species?” “Yes”, replied Thalen,” There are those in this galaxy that are of the human species, just like you. We think that all are connected throughout the cosmos.” Emily decided that it would be a good idea not to ask any more questions, for surely it would only confuse and scare her more. They were interrupted by others that entered the room. One of them said, “It is time to go.” They guided Emily out and through a winding maze of corridors to a large ship. They boarded and were to be taken to Couresant. As the ship’s door closed, she felt a sadness as she waved to the wonderful little beings that had saved her life. As the ship rose into the darkness, Emily sat down and held her daughter close. She kissed the infants forehead, “We are embarking on a great adventure, Emerita….” She sighed and looked around the ship, “Although I’m still not sure if we are dead or alive ….”

Emily was in utter shock at the bustling city of Couresant. She had never seen machines before, much less flying machines. Her heart was beating so fast, she could feel it beating in her throat and it was causing her to perspire. She cradled Emerita closer as they were guided off of the ship. The people that met her were humanoid like her. She walked hesitantly and the people were very gentle with her. She was taken to another ship that went lower into the city. She was fearful, but knew she had to trust them. Where was she to run…… she had no other place to go. She closed her eyes to avoid getting dizzy as the transport quickly descended and dodged other vehicles. She certainly did not want to throw up. They docked inside of a large building made of stone and chrome that glistened in the sun. Emily thought to herself that at least there was blue sky and a sun, well, two suns; almost like home, although there were no mountains here. She did miss her home in Scotland but that life was over and a new one about to begin. She just hoped that she would be prepared for what ever was to happen. Was she awake? Or was she dead and this was heaven…..She was taken to another large area that had furniture in it. There were several young women there to see to her and the baby’s needs.

Yoda was extremely excited and very worried about this new development. Midechlorians had never been found outside their galaxy and not on such a primitive planet that was over a million light years away. He was curious to see if they were the same as the Midechlorians here. He floated along in a hover chair slowly with a collogue. They came to Emily’s apartment and a Jedi padawan answered the door, “Master Yoda”, she said as she gave a slight bow. She backed up and allowed them to enter. “We have been expecting you. Let me get Emily for you.” She said as she left the room. The collogue sat down, “Master Yoda. Are you sure this is a good idea? We know nothing about this woman.” Yoda interrupted him, “Know her we do not, but not knowing her would be also wrong. A chance have we here to explore an unknown species. Strong with the force this female is…. and the child even stronger. This I have never seen from a galaxy so far away. This must be kept quiet. Dangerous for us and the two from that system if this was to get out in general knowledge.” The Padawan came back followed by Emily carrying the baby. She walked hesitantly toward Yoda. So many different looking beings here…. Yoda, smiled, “Afraid be you not. Here to help you, we are. Special you are…. and promising, indeed, your child is.” Emily sat down, “Why does everyone keep saying that we are special. We are ordinary people put in dire circumstances. Or maybe I am dead or dreaming….. I do not understand why I am here… I am grateful that we were spared, but I am afraid that I do not know anything other than being a warrior.” Yoda and his collogue glance at each other as the young padawan laughed quietly. Yoda’s collogue looks at Emily, “Well, believe it or not, we are also warriors, fighting everyday against the evils of our world”. He extended his hand to Emily. “Let me introduce myself, I am Colin Ansata, a Jedi for the protection of this system.” Emily looked thoughtfully at him, “What is a Jedi…” He smiled at her, “We are warriors that protect the peace of this system.” Emily took a deep breath, “…but what do I or my daughter have to do with your cause….What can we possibly do….” Yoda spoke up. “Inside, Midechlorians you have. Essence of all life, they are. Found in the very cells that make you. Some have more Midechlorians than others. This allows one to connect with the force that surrounds all…. The Midechlorians in you allowed you to be a brave warrior. With your daughter, the same it is and will be, with the right training. She shall be trained with permission from you as soon as she is weaned.” Emily sat thinking about what Yoda said. She wasn’t sure about turning her daughter over to him. Yoda walked over to Emily, who had sat down. He reached out and touched the baby’s forehead. A yellow glow iminated from the baby and Yoda. Emily sat shocked at what she saw. Yoda stood thoughtfully,” Strong with the force this one is. We should not delay her training.” He turned and walked back to his hover chair. Colin stood up and turned to Emily. “Yoda is a great teacher. Your daughter will only benefit from his knowledge.” Colin took Emily’s hand and gently kissed it. Emily stood there feeling an instant connection with him. They stood for a moment staring at each other. She snapped out of it when the baby started to fuss and she smiled at Colin, “It was a pleasure to meet you Sir, Ansata.” He smiled as he backed up. “You…. can call me Colin….” He turned and walked out with Yoda. Emily smiled as the door slid closed. The young padawan smiled, “I think he likes you……..” Emily smiled as she turned to walk back to put the baby down in her cradle, “He is just infatuated with the fact that I am from another galaxy……”

[Emerita]

CHAPTER TWO



Emily walked out of the kitchen and called, “ Emmy….where are you……” She heard the laughs of a tiny voice, “I am here mommy…..” She peeked her little head from around a chair and giggled. Her yellow curls bounced as she ran across the room and hugged Emily. So much had happened in the last two years. Colin resigned from the formal ranks of the Jedi and had taken a teaching position in the academy for the older initiates . Emily and Colin had gotten married after a year long courtship and he adopted Emmy. As far as Emmy was concerned, she was born on Couresant and her father was Colin Ansata. Emily was torn because she missed her home planet and she wanted Emmy to know her heritage and some day about her father and how bravely he had died to protect them.……but she wasn’t sure if it was a good idea to bring up a past that now was so far away. Colin was her father from the very beginning. She would ask Master Yoda’s advice.

Emily sat down on a chair and put Emmy on her lap, “ Sweetheart, you know you are getting to be a big girl now and it is getting time to start your training.” Emmy looked up at her mother, “……. and go to school with Master Yoda? OK, Mommy, I like Yoda…I want to go to school to be a warrior like you and Daddy.” Emily hugged her daughter tight knowing that this was a lifetime commitment and that Emmy would have to leave and live at the school. She was so little still. Not even three years old yet. Emily hated the thought of letting her daughter go, but she knew that it was indeed her destiny. She held her close and smelled her sweet baby smell and savored it in her mind as if it was the last time they would have together.

The night sky was still bustling with transports and private vehicles as Emily walked out and stood on the balcony of their home and watched the two setting suns turning the sky brilliant colors of orange and yellow. She felt a pang of horror, to the point of nausea, at the thought of giving her child up. Colin stepped out and put his arms around her, “Why so sad?” Emily sighed as she leaned back against her husband’s bare chest, “ I’m missing Emmy already. I can’t believe it is time to let her go." A tear ran down her cheek. Colin turned her around, “ We are not losing Emmy, She will still be close to us. It is her destiny and she is strong.” Emily smiled through the tears, “ I know. We have come such a long way and I am still in awe of everything that I have learned here. Two years ago I was alone and going to die and we were saved and it was fate that brought us here. This is where Emmy is supposed to live out her life and I have accepted that, but letting her go is almost unbearable. She is only a baby. I don’t want her to grow up to fast. I don’t want to miss any of her growing up and with her in training, I’m afraid that I will miss it all.” Colin hugged Emily tight, hoping to relive her fears, knowing that nothing could ever break the bond between her and Emmy. Emmy was wise beyond her two years. She seemed to know what was going on and had a knack of helping her parents through things. She was a special child. Yoda had seen it when he first saw her. Emily looked up into Colin’s eyes, “ When did you start your training? Were you taken from your parents?” Colin smiled. “Yes, I was five years old when I entered the initate training but, see? I turned out fine. The training was extremely difficult. I can’t lie to you.” Emily sighed, “ But why so young?” Colin reached out and stroked her face lovingly, “ Master Yoda has determined along with the Jedi Council, that Jedi must be started no later than three years of age, especially when they have an extremely high Midechlorian count. They can be molded from the start. The Jedi are forbidden to love or marry. That is why I had to resign my commission. There are only a few others at this time, so far, that have a high enough Medichlorian count at this young of an age to even be considered. This is really a trial period to see if the young ones can be taught. I was hard headed by the time they recruited me. All of this is still so new. There is already distention between a couple of the Masters on the council over this.” Emily sighed and walked back into the apartment. “ I do trust Master Yoda…..it is just so hard to let go of Emmy.”

[Emerita]

The school seemed so large, although Emily had walked through it thousands of times. They walked into a small room with a few other children all about Emmy’s age. She immediately smiled and wiggled out of her mother’s arms and ran to see the other children. Two Jedi instructors came in and bowed to the parents. One instructor smiled and took Emily’s hand, “ I know how hard this will be for you, but Emerita will do nicely. I shall keep you up dated as to her progress. She is still a part of you.” Emily smiled as she watched Emmy playing with the other children. She was happy that Emmy was happy to be here. She called Emmy and when the child came to her, she embraced her and kissed her. Tears ran down her cheeks. Emmy touched the tears, “ Why are you sad Mommy?” Emily looked at Emmy and smiled,” I am so happy that you will be going to school with Master Yoda…..” Emmy laughed, “ It will be fun Mommy……” She gave her mother a big hug , then pulled away and ran back to the other children. Colin and Emily left the room, knowing that they would miss their child and this was the hardest thing that they would ever have to do.

The next few months were extremely hard for Emily and Colin. They found themselves peeking in on Emmy just to see her. They were very careful not to let her see them and interrupt her training. They got to see her on the stated holidays, but if there was any separation anxiety , all contact would be severed. Fortunately, Emerita took seeing her parents in stride and willingly went back to training as if she knew ,even at her young age, that she was destined for service to the Republic. She was at the top of her class in academics and her physical prowess was unmatched by the other students. She mastered each lesson with eagerness. She became fast friends with the other students and teachers. The council was very impressed with the rate all of the young the children were learning. “


In a large room, six eight year olds stood dressed in battle gear of padded tunics and helmets. Yoda stood in front of them, Alright….Younglings, let me see your katas. Stance one…..” The children all made the correct stance and followed Yoda and the assistant instructor through all of the stances of Jedi fighting. This went on, day in and day out, combined with studies of various cultures in the galaxy. Today was especially exciting for the children for they were to see their parents. Soon the class was over and when Emmy saw her parents, she smiled and quietly waved to them from across the room. When the teacher dismissed them, she ran over and jumped into Emily’s arms and planted kisses all over her face and giggled excitedly, “ Did you see us Mommy?” Emily answered, “ Yes my love, we saw you. You are so big and you are learning so fast…….” Emmy looked at Colin, “Hi Daddy……..” She hugged him in turn. “Can we go home now?” “ Yes Emmy, we can go home.”

Emmy ran into her room and picked up her most beloved toys and cuddled them. She picked each one up in turn , “I missed you, but you know that I have to be away to learn to be a Jedi and I will protect you forever…..” She played quietly as her parents stood at the door and watched. Emily knew that the time that Emmy would no longer be allowed to come home was getting close at hand. The weaning process was harder on her and Colin, than it was on Emmy.

[Emerita]

CHAPTER THREE


The following eight years were of intense training. Hard training, that Emerita embraced with a passion. She was an excellent swordsman and could duplicate any of the instructors after just watching them once. She has an identic memory and has mastered twenty two languages and the customs and diplomacy of thirty different species. She was happy for the most part and was a friend to every classmate. She had become a strong young woman who had a strong will and was not easily swayed. She also had a mischievous side which had made her infamous with the under classes. She had strong facial features with long blonde curly hair that she wears in a loose braid and striking blue eyes. Almost the spitting image of her mother whom she hadn’t seen in over two years.

At night, the Temple was very quiet, with an occasional Jedi walking around. Emmy and her friend Matta peeked out from around a corner to the Great Hall. “Emmy we are going to get skinned alive for this..” Emmy smiled and tip-toed out into the open.” Everybody is asleep, we won’t get caught…..” Matta looked at her, “ Yeah…you say that every time…” She sighed, “ Why do I let you talk me into this.” Emmy took her friend’s hand,” You worry to much….. come on…” They quickly ran through the corridors to the classrooms. The girls went inside of the first room and picked up a few teaching supplies and carried them out into the hall and down the corridor and into another room. There they picked up other items and rushed them back to the first room…They giggled as they tip-toed back down the hall. Matta was relieved that Emmy was just exchanging classroom materials and did not bring in a slimy creature to put in the teachers desk. Emmy seemed to get pleasure out of the silliness and would never resort to hurtful acts.Suddenly Emmy stopped and ducked around a corner. Matta followed her,” What is it..?” “SHHHHH….” Whispered Emmy. She put her hand over Matta’s mouth to stop her from speaking. A guard patrolling stopped and listened….he turned around , looked down the corridors. He heard nothing and resumed his walk. Emmy led Matta out to a small outside door that was hidden and rarely used. How Emerita found it was anyone’s guess. They slipped through it and ran down the street one block to a diner. They went in and sat at the counter. The café was empty being that it was such a late hour. The waitress Hermonie came out…. “….you girls are surely in trouble if you get caught… It is nearly midnight…..” She smiled and brought two cups of a hot sweet drink, “ Now you girls hurry up and drink that, If Dax finds out you are here he’ll be angry….and I’ll be I trouble if you are caught here…" Emmy smiled, “ Tomorrow is my birthday…This will be the only way I’ll get to celebrate it….” Hermonie smiled, “ Happy Birthday Em...now…drink up and GO HOME……..”

Emerita woke up in her dorm. She looked around at the five other beds that held her sleeping peers . She smoothed her curly blonde hair out of her eyes and rubbed her face sleepily. It was early and the others were still sleeping. Today was her birthday and she knew that she would not be celebrating it and she understood. It did sadden her a little. She felt a change in the force or maybe it could be the regular hormonal fluxes of any sisteen year old. She sighed as she turned on her side and tried to go back to sleep. The morning chime sounded and an instructor came in to arouse them. Everyone got sleepily out of bed to wash up and dress for the morning meal. She knew that they would be graduating to a higher school today for more intense training to prepare them for going out into the world with a Jedi instructor.

Emerita was a rebellious child in nature and she had gotten into her share of mischief over the years. All of it in good fun….well, good fun for her and her accomplices. Not fun for the instructors to find squirmy things in their seats or their test papers glued together and certainly not to Master Yoda after they modified his hover chair to go three times as fast as it was designed to go . The instructors were very tolerant up to a point and she had seen her share of Master Yoda’s council chamber. She also missed her mother and father. She felt that she was being forced into this and that she didn’t have a choice……but then again, what other life was there. This was all she had known. She did not know of the world outside, although she knows that it does exist through her learning. She would be introduced to it soon enough by her new Jedi Master. She often thought about what he would be like and was a little afraid of the prospect of being out in the world. Emerita’s best friend Matta, bounced down on the bed next to her…… “That was a good one last night…Em. What a send off to Master Ling-na……they will never know who did it and next year we will have a new bunch of instructors. They smiled at each other, their eyes gleaming. “ Emerita…..come with me….” A stern voice said. The girls exchanged looks of horror to each other. Em got up and followed the instructor out of the dorm. The boys snickered to each other, “ Thought she would get away with it…..” Em turned and gave a smirking look to them and continued to follow the instructor. As they walked, the instructor looked at Emerita, “ I know it was you that did the prank last night. ….” Em walked in silence. Master Ling-na smiled, “ I shall miss you Emerita. You have such a spark….things will definitely be dull here.” Em smiled and quietly sighed in relief.

They walked into Master Yoda’s council chamber. There were other Masters there also and one she wasn’t familiar with…..Emerita prepared herself for the usual punishment… She took the Jedi stance of patience and bowed to Yoda, “ Master Yoda….” She said. Yoda looked at her for what felt like an eternity to Emerita. He reached over and picked up a lightsaber and walked over to her. “ Emerita Ansata…... Completed , you have all that we can teach you here. With your new Master teacher, you now will be…… Padawan learner, you now are. The stranger stepped up as Yoda continued…… “ This is Master Kenai Si-Wan …..Continue your training she will.” Emerita looked questionably at Yoda….” But Master Yoda. I am only sixteen, It is not time for me to leave the school is it?” She caught herself and bowed, “ I am sorry Master Yoda, I am out of line. Forgive me…..” Yoda sighed, “ Young padawan, You have nothing else to learn from us. You need the intense training that only a Jedi can give you.” Emerita looked up as Kenai walked over to her and took her face in one hand. You will be one with me, young padawan. It will be a hard road to the trials….” Emerita studied the face of the beautiful female Jedi, smiled, looked at the precious Lightsaber entrusted to her, then looked back into the eyes of her new Master and smiled. Kenai smiled back….Emerita bowed in reverence, “ I am yours to instruct and mold, My Master.”

........to be continued.......

[Emerita]

The sun passed over the tall buildings, shadows became prevalent and the air started to become cool. Emerita shook from the chill in the air as they walked along the streets. She pulled her robe tighter around her neck and put up her hood. She had seen so much today. Her senses were still reeling from all of the exposure. She looked at her Master, “ Where shall I be living?” Kenai looked at her and smiled, “You shall be living with me in the Jedi Temple, in the quarters there. It will be similar to the dorms that you are use to . Nothing luxurious. We do not have property per say, but if you have something precious to your heart, you may keep it in your sleep chamber. We however will not be sleeping there much. The Council will be sending us to all parts of the Galaxy on missions…” Emerita asked, “What sort of missions?” Kenai smiled thoughtfully.” Well…All kinds. There will be disputes to be settled and important people to protect. “ Emerita asked, “ What sort of people, Master?” “Well,” replied Kenai, “ I have protected Diplomats, Senators, Presidents, Kings, Queens and Priests. Usually I go with them when they travel. Usually with the Jedi presence, there isn’t usually any trouble. You will get to go on many such adventures with me. You shall be my shadow. You will sleep when I do. You will eat when I eat. You have to stay strong in the force….” “For trouble?” asked Emerita. “ Well, yes…trouble. Trouble comes in many shapes and forms. You have to constantly be wary of the force my padawan and be able to …..” Kenai stopped outside of a building with music coming out. Emerita looked in with curiosity. Kenai smiled “ Come, let’s go in. This is a good place to watch others.” Emerita followed Kenai into the large club. Club Teanka was a hot spot for rowdiness because law enforcement rarely came here. They sat a small table. A waiter came over and asked them what they wanted. Kenai ordered herself her usual drink. She ordered Emerita a Naboo juice that was sweet. Kenai looked around and said quietly,” Look…There…That is a Slythmonger….they exist solely to peddle their drugs called death sticks…” “Death sticks?” asked Emerita. “Deathsticks are an hallucinative drug that shortens the lifespan every time you use it. A lot of the time a weary traveler is coaxed into taking it by the Slythmonger’s urgings that they will feel better. They become addicted to it before they learn this, but by that time it is to late and they don’t care.” Emerita looked around, “ Do they know we are Jedi?” Kenai answered, “ Some of them….yes. Our manner of dress is distinctive. We are not bothered though, because they know of our power with the force. Most of them just ignore us unless we are somewhere on official business. Many see us in the light of law enforcement. That is why we usually do not frequent these places. We can not get involved in arguments or fights unless they direct their anger at us personally. Even then, the best way is non aggressive negotiation….” “ Non aggressive…Master?” “Yes, we try to talk our way out of it….Most of the time we can use the Force if they are weak minded or drunk….” We never want our negotiations to become aggressive….” An inebriated humanoid walks over to their table and sits down and talks in slurred speech, “ hey there pre….ety ladie….ess…Buy me a drink?” Kenai smiled and gave Emerita a wink. Kenai looked at the man, “ You do not want any more drink….” The man looked at her trying to focus, “ I do not want anymore to drink…?.” Kenai continued, “ You want to go to your lodgings and sleep.” The man sat up and burped, “ I want to go to my lodgings and sleep…….” Kenai smiled,” You want to not drink anymore…one drink is enough….” The man sat and blinked, “ I do not want to drink anymore….one drink is enough….” He shakily stood up and wandered out of the club. Emerita tried to hide her laughter…Kenai smiled. You will be able to do that also as you train……..They got up and left the club….. Darkness fell quickly as they walked back toward the transport station. Emerita looked at Kenai. Kenai looked comforting at Emerita, “ yes” she said quietly… “I feel it too…..keep walking…” “They want to rob us?” asked Emerita. Kenai took a deep breath and put her hand on her lightsaber,” Yes, It would appear so…” Emerita followed her lead and touched her saber. Her palms were sweating and her heart was pounding. This was the first time she had ever felt fear…She did not like that sensation much, although she definitely could feel her adrenalin rushing…. And that……she did like…. Three large odd looking humanoid men caught up with them. One called out. Your dactaries and you won’t be hurt. Kenai stopped but did not turn,” We do not have any money…… It would be best if you left us now. “ The men laughed, “I think you are mighty brave for such lovely ladies…..” Kenai turned with Emerita following her lead…One of the men gasped and backed up and grabbed the man’s shoulder….let’s go, they are Jedi….” The first man scoffed. Jedi…what are Jedi…” With agile quickness Kenai drew her saber and flashed it at the man stopping just short of his face. Emerita pulled hers and held it periously close to the other man’s head. The third man ran away down the street. He started shaking,” OK…OK…OK…. We want no trouble.” Emerita smiled,” You’ve already got that…the question is, what are you going to do with it?” The men turned and ran down the street. On lookers that were stopped, continued on their way. Kenai and Emerita, put their sabers away and walked down the street to the transport ramp…They got on board the appropriate transport back to the temple. The lights of the city were extraordinary and Emerita sat marveling in their beauty. She sighed and looked at her Master, “Why didn’t we just kill those men. Surely they will continued on to rob others…” Kenai smiled, “ That may possibly be. You do not want to be so quick to run someone through with your saber. I know those men shall think twice about robbing other women on the street again.” The transport stopped and everyone got off and others got on. The tired Jedi walked to the Temple without further incident. Kenai opened the door to their quarters. Emerita looked around. Not to bad. It was a simple three rooms. A large room with simple furniture and two separate sleeping quarters each with a refresher. “This is where you shall be sleeping. Emerita went in and looked around. Not at all like her beautiful room at home with her parents….She sighed and sat down on the bed, which was the one of two pieces of furniture in the room. There was a small free standing closet with three tunics and undershirts and one outer robe hanging. A pair of new shiny boots sat under the hanging clothes. That was to be the extent of her wardrobe for the rest of her life. She noticed the refresher and went in and looked at herself in a small mirror. She thought the person staring back at her looked older. She touched the mirror with a little sadness, rubbed her face and yawned. This was her life now. She had to accept it. Thoughts ran through her mind…She would never have children or have the love of a husband. She thought about how happy she had seen her parents…..She sighed and shook her head as if to get rid of the thoughts that plagued her. She removed her tunic and put on a long flowing sleeping shirt. She went back to the bed and found a small book on it, which she recognized as the Jedi Bible of rules and wisdom, similar to the one she had in school. She sat down on the bed and opened it. It the front there was writing…. ‘To our beautiful and loving daughter who has limitless potential and love. We wish you happiness in your life.’ It was from her parents. A tear rolled down her cheek and she smiled as she ran hers fingers across the writing. Kenai walked into the room, “ Your parents gave that to me for you. Ordinarily it is not allowed, but I am not a stickler for all of the rules.” She sat down on the bed, “ Emerita, You are to learn love, compassion and understanding for everyone. You can’t be a great Jedi without those qualities. The Order forbids sexual love and marriage, not love in general. The ones that you have loved in your past will always be there and the love of friendship will be a great asset. We are not untouchable nor unfeeling….We are living, breathing humans…..and we have to cling to our humanity.” Kenai leaned over and kissed Emerita on her forehead, “ I didn’t do that….” She laughed….” And don’t think that I am not going to make your training hard…” She walked out of the room,” Get some sleep, tomorrow we start ….” Emerita laid back and cuddled the book. She closed her eyes and drifted off into a deep sleep.

[Emerita]

Emerita opened her eyes and looked around, forgetting momentarily where she was. When she realized she was not in her student dorm, she took a deep breath and wondered what adventure she was in store for today. Her thoughts also were of her parents and what her life would be like if she were still at home.….What would she do with her life if she had no Midechlorians in her body…Would she have furthered her education and become a teacher? Or maybe a Senator or maybe gone into the medical field? Or possibly have gotten married and had children…..Emerita sighed and let the feeling of sadness envelope her. Then she thought about what she was doing…was it wrong of her to feel this way? How dare she have fantasies of another life when she had dedicated herself to the service of the Republic…but did she dedicate her life…or was it dedicated for her….she began to have negative feelings about Master Yoda…How dare he assume to take the lives of younglings and say what they are destined to be….Emerita groaned and got out of bed and washed up and put on clean tunics and went out into the main room. Kenai was sitting on a couch sipping caff, “ My young padawan, Good morning…” She looked at Emerita and sensed despair, “ Come, tell me what troubles you on this fine morning….” Emerita sat down and sighed, “ Master, I was plagued with strange dreams that continued as thoughts when I woke up…. I thought Jedi were not supposed to remember their dreams…” Kenai smiled,” You are right , but you will learn the meditation of this and you will be able to control it.” Em got up and went to a small table and poured herself a cup of caff. Kenai stood up and crossed over to her, “ Emerita, Things will sort themselves out, I know you are having doubts now and that is very normal, My other padawan went through it as did I. Every Jedi does…” Emerita looked up at Kenai,” But why do I have the feeling that I had no choice in this….What if I wanted to be something else? “ Kenai put her hands on Emerita’s shoulders and looked deeply into her eyes, “ Emerita, this is your destiny…..Everyone has a destiny. Teachers, Doctors, Senators, Presidents…and even Master Yoda…..Our lives are predestined and we must follow that. You were given a high Midechlorian count for a reason…My young padawan, you are destined for great things and this is the course you must take. We all have these feelings of doubt and they will subside as you grow in your craft. There is so much for you to learn…” Emerita broke in,”….But why don’t I have the choice…..the free will to know this…why am I filled with such doubt?” Kenai smiled and gave Emerita a hug, “ My child ..that is why I am here…to guide you and teach you to be confident in your actions…We are to be together for a long time and you will learn to accept my teachings. Fear and doubt will subside. I would have not agreed to be your mentor if I thought you were not destined for this. I would not have wasted my time….. “ Emerita looked sadly out the window of the main room, “ I know. I just needed to hear it…” She looked back into Kenai’s eyes, “ I am sorry master, I know I am destined for this, I shall try harder.” Kenai smiled, “ I know…..well, let’s go have our morning meal and continue our lessons.”

The meal room was quiet. They sat down at a table and a young man sat a drink in front of them. Emerita smiled at him. He smiled back and turned and left. He came back almost immediately and sat a small bowl in front of them that contained a porridge. Emerita sighed. Kenai looked at her and smiled….”What’s wrong?” Emerita smiled,” I was hoping it was going to be a little different than school. I thought we would be able to pick what we wanted to eat.” Kenai took a bite of her food,” Well, they have so many people to cook for, so they cook one thing and everyone eats it. They do give a variety of meals for the Jedi. Emerita shrugged and ate her meal in silence.

As they walked out of the meal room, Emerita smiled. She felt more at ease after she confronted her fears. She cautiously looked around in hopes of seeing maybe some of her friends or maybe her parents, and felt sad when she did not. She followed Kenai out of the temple and walked to the transport platform and boarded a shuttle, “Where are we going, Master?” she asked….Kenai smiled,” I told you we were going to start our training today….” Emerita sat quietly as the shuttle took off and sped out of the city.

Emerita followed Kenai off of the shuttle in an unfamiliar part of the city. They walked to another transport hanger where Kenai greeted a man and took two shoulder packs from him and led Emerita to a small speeder. Emerita’s eyes lit up. She had learned of these and their capability of great speeds and had flown them in the virtual simulators. She began to feel excited, “ Where are we going Master?” Kenai smiled,” get in Emerita, all will be revealed to you in time….” They climbed in and fastened their seatbelts. Kenai started the speeder and left the hangar. The scenery changed quickly. Where there once were many tall and glistening buildings, gave way to a quieter place with a few trees and grass. A few small buildings dotted the landscape. They came to a quiet field with tall grass waving in the breeze. Kenai stopped the speeder and got out,” Emerita, I want you to get behind the controls…” Emerita smiled…” Really? Wow……” She jumped behind the controls and Kenai took the seat she was in…” OK, First lesson, You will learn to fly this speeder and then we shall move up to bigger things.” Emerita felt very nervous, but didn’t let it show. She followed Kenai’s instructions and started the speeder. The hum and the vibrations were very exhilarating. She stepped on the accelerator and the speeder took off. A little to fast for Kenai. “ Emerita!...Slow Down!” Emerita laughed and pressed on. She laughed, “This is great! The speeder was very easily handled. Suddenly it started going in small tight circles and Emerita was afraid. She looked at Kenai who was also looking nervous,” “Em…..take you foot off of the accelerator!” Emerita complied and the speeder straightened out and slowed and bumped hard on the ground.” Wow, that was great!” she exclaimed, “Much better than the simulators in school!” Kenai sighed,” Emerita, you need to follow instruction, if you are to fly this thing in the city…” Emerita sighed, “I am sorry master, I will not do that again….shall I continue?” “Yes.” Answered Kenai, “ Just more slowly this time……” Emerita smiled and started the speeder and slowly pressed on the accelerator. The speeder, followed her commands and as she flew it with precision, at which Kenai was impressed. They flew around the field until the suns lowered in the sky. Emerita flew it back to the transport hanger where they started. She parked the speeder and climbed out. “ That was great, Master…can we do it again tomorrow? Kenai walked around to Emerita, Yes, possibly we can….but we can’t spend all of our time playing….you have mastered the mechanics of the speeder and we need to move on….” Emerita followed Kenai out of the hanger and they went back to the temple. They had their evening meal and returned to their quarters. Kenai sat down on the floor and motioned Emerita to follow, “ I shall now instruct you how to meditate so you can rest tonight. Kenai lit a candle and placed it on a small stool in front of Emerita and she said softly and slowly “Look into the flame…see the different colors….take slow deep breaths and concentrate on it. Nothing else matters at this moment except the flame. The warmth and the light. Empty your mind and focus on the quietness of it. It needs nothing from you and is here to guide you to quiet your mind. Imagine yourself in solitude where nothing can touch you except the warmth and light of the flame.” Emerita sat and did as she was instructed. Kenai’s voice got softer and softer as she focused on the candle. Emerita closed her eyes and thought of the quiet and the solitude of the candle. Its one purpose was to light the way. She could now hear nothing except the beating of her own heart and her own breathing. Her hands rested on her crossed knees. She was so relaxed that one of her hands slipped off of her knee which jerked her back to reality. Emerita looked around. Kenai was gone and the sun streamed through the windows. Emerita took a deep breath, rather shocked that she sat there all night. It felt like only a few minutes had passed. She got up and went to the window and looked out…she smiled. This was truly her destiny. She accepted her fate.

[Emerita]

Kenai came in the quarters and saw Emerita standing looking out the window, “Good morning, my padawan, did you dream?” Emerita, turned and looked at Kenai,” What happened? It felt like I was sitting there for only a few minutes….” Kenai, impressed with Emerita, sat on the couch,” Come, sit here” as she patted with her hand on the seat next to her. Emerita sat next to her, “ Emerita, You are an exceptional student. It would have taken others, months to master what you did last night. “ She stopped and looked deep into Emerita’s eyes,” Padawan, you are truly gifted and I do not want you to think that you are to superior to continue to learn…” Emerita interrupted her, “ I know, Master….I think this is wonderful. I want to learn more…please… I am yours to mold, I do not think I am superior…..” she took Kenai’s hands , “Look at me, You know in your feelings that I will be honest and a good student”…Kenai smiled and touched Emerita’s face, “ Yes, my padawan, I can see the honesty in your eyes…..”



Kenai and Emerita walked through the halls of the temple and went up to the council chambers. “ Emerita, Master Yoda has asked to see me and you are to wait out here. I shall only be a moment.” Emerita sat down on a padded bench. Kenai entered the chamber doors. There was Yoda and two other masters sitting and talking. Kenai stepped up to them and bowed, “ Master Yoda, you asked to see me? “ Yes Master Kenai, I felt a strong vergence in the force last night….. care to enlighten me? Kenai took a deep breath, “ I was teaching Emerita to meditate and she did in a few hours, what it takes others months to master. She also mastered the speeder in less than a day. She is very impressive, but also head strong. There is much conflict in her and I see her as being a great Jedi…..but I am concerned, it will be a bumpy road to the trials.” Yoda smiled, “That is why we paired her with you. You are one that can control her and teach her at an accelerated pace…..may the Force be with you…..” Kenai bowed, turned and left. Emerita stood up when Kenai came out through the door,” Is everything alright, Master?” Kenai smiled, “ Yes, everything is fine…come, we have to get back to our training…. We have a lot to learn.

They returned to the transport dock and Kenai acquired the same speeder. Emerita’s eyes lite up. She slid in behind the wheel and fastened her seat belt. Kenai stepped into the passenger seat, “ I want you to fly up and to the center of this part of the city.” Emerita’s hands began to sweat with anticipation. She started the speeder and pulled out of the docking bay. She pulled up into traffic, feeling very nervous…what if she hit another speeder. It was a long way to the ground. She drove cautiously and looked over to Kenai, “ Where are we going, Master? Where should I fly to? Kenai pointed in the direction she wanted her to go. Emerita flew flawlessly. They kept flying through the massive city for an hour and as they neared the edge of this part of the city the traffic became lighter. They flew to a partly deserted area of the old industrial section. “ Put the speeder down over there.” Kenai pointed to a large building. “ What is this place, Master? It is deserted……why are we here…” she stopped short, “ I am sorry Master, It is not good to question so much…” Kenai smiled, “ Emerita….never stop asking questions…always ask them, even if you do not say them out loud. Always be aware of your surroundings, even though you are here with me….” Kenai climbed out of the speeder and reached into the back seat and pulled out two shoulder packs and walked into one of the large buildings and Emerita followed. Inside, Kenai went into a small room with large windows and flipped a switch which lighted up a large console. She sat down in a chair in front of a keyboard and she typed on it. Images flashed up on a screen. She stepped away from the console and went out of the room. She went to another room, slightly larger than the one they were just in. Suddenly lights came on and holographic images appeared of a large area, with many different obstacles. “ Wow….said Emerita…what is this for…” Kenai smiled, “ I want you to show me the extent of your saber training…” Kenai pulled out her own lightsaber and turned it on…Curious, Emerita followed suit. Suddenly two very unfriendly creatures came at them. They had light sabers also. The creatures fought with precision and within minutes they were obliterated and disappeared. Emerita’s could feel her adrenalin rushing, “ Wow, that was great!” Before she could take another breath, another being, larger and stronger came at her….She defended herself well. Kenai stood back and watched her form….. “ Computer, pause program….” The being stopped, frozen. Kenai walked up to Emerita….” You have good form, but let me suggest you use this stance at this moment. She did the stance and followed through with three more. Emerita watched closely and nodded, “ OK…got it…” Kenai backed up, “ Computer…resume program…” The being came back to life and attacked Emerita. She followed through with the moves she was just shown by Kenai, and successfully took the creature down. Emerita stopped, breathless…Suddenly, two more came at her and she quickly defended herself…As she fought, she forgot they were simulated programs and became fearful for her life. Fighting two of them was extremely difficult. Suddenly she raised her hand and with a wave, she threw one being back and she slay the other one and ran over and ran her saber through the first one. She fell to her knees as the beings disappeared. “That was intense……Master…” Kenai walked over to her and helped her up. “You fight bravely padawan. I was wondering when you would use the force in defending yourself. Show me more. Raise that container. It is not a hologram.” Emerita looked over at a large square packing crate, that was rusted…. She held out her hand and tried to raise it without success. She looked at Kenai who answered, “ Try again…” Emerita took a deep breath and held her hand up again. Kenai continued, “ Clear your mind, let the force flow through you.” The container lifted off of the floor and she held it suspended four feet off of the floor. She looked at Kenai…..” What shall I do with it?” Kenai shrugged. Emerita flung it thirty feet to a wall and it came crashing down to the floor. Kenai smiled, “ Well, done.”

Emerita felt pleased with herself. Kenai lit up her saber and turned on Emerita. With lightening fast reaction, Emerita countered the blow with her own light saber. Kenai smiled and Emerita smiled back. Kenai immediately started a full frontal assault on Emerita. Emerita retreated with defensive moves for a few seconds, then turned and spun around and flipped over Kenai and preceded to become offensive. She fought admirably. Suddenly Kenai yelled,” COMPUTER! Program 52! Suddenly five humanoid forms came at them with weapons of different kinds. Emerita deflected laser shots and fireballs from the assailants. They fought for what seemed like an hour to Emerita. She began to falter under one of the assailants. She closed her eyes for a second then threw him with her mind and he disappeared against the wall. She followed suite with the other two that were engaging her. She dropped to the floor and watched Kanai battle the other two, observing her motions in fighting. Kenai slay the two attackers and sat winded next to Emerita……They gave each other the high five and locked hands and helped each other up.

They returned to the temple as it was getting dark. Emerita walked into her sleep chamber and lit a candle. She took a sonic shower in the refresher, changed into her sleeping gown and sat in front of the candle. She thought momentarily then called out, “ Master…” Kenai stepped to her doorway. Emerita continued, “ Will I have to do the candle every night?” Kenai smiled and sat next to her, “ No, my padawan, you will come to master it and be able to do it without the candle. You will be able to lay your head down and just think about the relaxation and fall asleep. You will be able to filter through your thoughts. Kenai got up and left the room and returned with a leather padawan belt similar to her own. Emerita took it happily, now knowing that this meant that she was now a full padawan. She ran her fingers over the pouches. She opened one and looked at the contents. Kenai sat next to her, “ This is your communications device. You can send and receive audio messages over it, up to a parsec away.” Kenai opened the other smaller pouch, “This is where you will keep small essentials for each assignment and your identification charm , and the large one is a medical kit. These tube ones are food capsules, which are basically nutrients and we only eat them if we are stranded for a long time. You have eight here and that is enough to sustain you for up to a year ….now rest padawan.” Emerita sat and focused on the candle.

[Emerita]

The next morning Emerita proudly put on her new symbol of being Jedi. She wished she had a full length reflector to view her self in. She attached her lightsaber and walked out into the main room and she and Kenai went to the meal room and sat down. The same young man gave them their meal. As he sat the food in front of Emerita, he smiled. Emerita started to smile, but caught herself and said in a solemn tone, “ Thank you.” Kenai smiled to herself as she watched Emerita. The food was different this morning. They had fresh made bread with sweet honey and Canturian eggs. Emerita looked at Kenai, “ Well, this is more like it.” She devoured her food quickly and followed Kenai out of the meal room and into the elevator that she knew led to the Council Chambers. A knot formed in Emerita’s stomach. She didn’t understand why. She guessed it was excitement at the prospect of going to the council chambers for other things other than being disciplined or it could be the pace in which she ate her breakfast. They stepped off of the elevator and the large doors slid open. They stepped in and there was three masters sitting and talking. Kenai and Emerita bowed. Yoda spoke up. “ A mission, we have for you and your padawan. Prime Minister Nalothan of Janeiro is here on Senate business. Threats on his life in the past have been made. Wanting now are they for Jedi to protect and you are to be assigned to protect him until he leaves for his home planet.” He paused and looked at Emerita, “Padawan, this for you a great learning experience will be. Be cautious and follow Master Kenai closely. “ Emerita smiled at Yoda as she bowed, “ Yes, Master Yoda.” They turned and left the Chambers.


They were greeted at the Prime Minister’s chambers at large chrome building which housed traveling dignitaries. An aide to the Prime Minister greeted them. He bowed, “ Greetings, Master Jedi, This way….” The aide showed them into a large, very exquisitely furnished room. They sat on very plush couches. Emerita took her hand and felt the soft velvet material. She looked at Kenai who smiled and said quietly, “You will find that the lawmakers are quite used to the finer things in life. It makes them soft, therefore unable to take care of themselves.” She gave Emerita a slight smile. The Prime Minister came into the room and greeted them, “Thank you for coming Master Jedi.” He was a noble , tall, and very handsome statue of a man. Not at all what Emerita had envisioned him as. She was thinking that all dignitaries were short, fat and smelled of perfume. He looked at Emerita, “ They thought I needed two Jedi?” Kenai answered, “ This is Padawan Ansata.” The prime minister smiled, “Well, let’s hope there is no cause for you to have to learn to defend me. I use to take these threats lightly, but as I have gotten older, I know not to. I have had twenty five open threats made on me in the last six years. I still carry scars from many of them, so welcome, Jedi. My staff will be at your bidding. Anything you need or want; they are at your disposal. I need to go to a Senate hearing now, shall we go?” They followed him and several assistants to the roof of the building and boarded a transport and flew off to the Senate building. Security was very tight there, so they were able to relax a little. They sat in his floating pod while they listened to the rantings and discussions of the Senate. Emerita looked around in awe. She had never imagined that it would be so immense with so many different species in one place. She looked over at Kenai who was intently looking around the Senate floor. Emerita felt a little ashamed that she was letting her mind wander and hoped that Kenai didn’t notice. She looked ahead and let her eyes wander to see if Kenai was watching. Kenai winked at her. Emerita smiled.

The hearing went on without incident. They left the main floor and boarded their transport back to the Prime Minister’s apartment. He excused himself as his wife came out to greet him, “ I shall retire now.” Kenai stopped him, “ Let us check your room, Prime Minister.” He stepped out of her way as she walked around the apartment. Emerita followed silently and observed Kenai. She used sensor sweeps and found nothing. She slipped a card into the Prime Minister’s R2 unit and walked back out to the main room, “ Good night Prime Minister.” Kenai went out onto a balcony and took a deep breath. Emerita looked around, “ Master, is this what we will always be doing?” Kenai smiled, “ Some of the time…however, never let your guard down. We are not put here lightly and are not to be confused with nursemaids. There is definite threat here or they would not have bothered asking for our assistance.” A servant came out onto the balcony and laid a tray of food onto a small table. Emerita went over and looked at it. It was covered with wonderful looking delicacies. She and Kenai sat down. “ I could definitely get used to this.” said Emerita. Kenai smiled, “ Just one of the perks my padawan…eat, we have a long night ahead of us.”

One of the servants took away the food tray and another one led the Jedi into a sleep chamber. Kenai washed her hands in the refresher. “ You need to lay down and rest your eyes. I shall wake you if I need you.” Emerita looked at Kenai with confusion, “ I need to stay awake, my Master, to learn from you.” Kenai sat down on a small balcony off of the sleeping quarters, “ If you wish, but it will not do you any good to be tired.” Emerita asked, “ But what about you…how will you rest.” Kenai rubbed the back of her neck, “ Oh, I’ll be fine, I’ll be able to rest. The place is secure for tonight” Emerita sat on a planter among a few plants and leaned back against the wall and looked out over the bustling city lights. This was her first real assignment. She was to excited to sleep.

[Emerita]

Emerita jerked awake suddenly. She was still sitting in the planter on the balcony, but Kenai was not there. She jumped down and looked into their quarters and whispered, “Master?” Emerita opened the door and stepped into the large main room of the apartment. It was quiet and dark with slight illumination from the outside lights of the city. She slowly walked around. She stopped, closed her eyes and then smiled and without moving said in a whisper, “ Master….what are you doing out here…” Kenai smiled and whispered, “ Very good, my padawan.” Kenai walked over to a large balcony and touched a panel on the wall, lowering a force field. They walked out onto the balcony. Emerita looked over the edge at the bustling traffic, that never seemed to cease. She looked back at Kenai, “ Do you ever sleep?” Kenai smiled and sat down on a small chair, “Of course, I have rested a good deal tonight….we have a couple of hours until daylight……How was your rest?” Emerita thought for a moment and smiled, “I am not the least bit tired…..” Suddenly there was a very quiet noise that alerted them both. They quickly and quietly went back in and Kenai reactivated the balcony force field. They both stood motionless waiting for the sound to repeat. As it did, they both drew their sabers without igniting them. The noise was coming from the other side of the apartment. They both walked quickly and quietly toward the sound. There was a light on behind a slightly opened door. Kenai pushed it slowly opened. A member of the Senator’s staff jumped at the sight of the two Jedi, “ Oh My!, you frightened me, I thought you would be sleeping…..I am about to prepare the Senator’s morning meal. Would you like some caff? Kenai and Emerita put away their sabers and sat on high stools at the counter, “ Yes, Thank you” said Kenai, “That would be very good.” The Woman poured them each a cup and proceeded to prepare the morning meal. She placed a plate of food in front of each of them and Emerita was surprised at the different foods she served from what she was used to.

The Jedi escorted the Prime Minister back to the Senate and stayed there most of the day and nothing unusual happened. No threats were made on his life and Emerita was a little disappointed and a little bored. She knew nothing of what the lawmakers were arguing about and she at this point did not care. She scanned the whole assembly area with her thoughts and picked up on nothing that was to be considered a threat against the Prime Minister. She did however wonder how a few of these species even were smart enough to even be representatives to the Senate…..this Galaxy was in trouble……Kenai noticed her demeanor but did not say anything to her at this time.

Emerita was very glad when the assignment was over. They escorted the Prime Minister to the transport level where his ship was waiting. The Prime Minister shook their hands, “ Thank you, Master Jedi, I am in your debt. I am glad there was no cause for alarm, but I just could not take the threat lightly” Kenai smiled, “ It was an honor to serve you Prime Minister. It was still a good learning experience for Padawan Ansata.” Emerita bowed slightly to the Prime Minister and took his extended hand. As she did a premonition went through her. She saw the Prime Minister being killed in an explosion . She let go of his hand, drew her lightsaber and ran up the ramp. Kenai grabbed the Prime Minister’s arm, “Stay here. His personal guards surrounded him. Kenai caught up with Emerita, “ Padawan, what are you doing?” Emerita was looking around each seat. “I saw…..” She stopped at looked at Kenai, “ I saw the Prime Minister being killed in an explosion here on his ship…..I can’t explain it….I just saw it flash through my mind when I touched his hand…” She bent down and saw a small device under on of the seats. Several men dressed in armor with weapons came on board to assist them. Kenai showed them and they proceeded to remove the bomb. Kenai and Emerita walked back down the ramp to the Prime Minister who was shaken but grateful, “ How did you know there was danger?” Emerita looked at him then at Kenai, “ I do not know.”
Well, Master Jedi, It seems that I am once again in your debt. I shall not ever forget your bravery.” The Senator was lead on board as soon as the bomb was removed. They stood and watched the ship rise up into the traffic and disappear.

Yoda and several other Masters were talking in the Jedi Council Chambers when Kenai and Emerita arrived. They had all felt the vergence in the force when Emerita had her premonition. Kenai and Emerita bowed to the Council, “ The Senator has been safely transported to his planet.” Yoda sighed, “ Padawan, tell us of your encounter….” Emerita, looking surprised that Yoda would even know about it, looked up at him, “ I do not know, Master Yoda, It just happened when I touched him. I did not do it on purpose.” Yoda said thoughtfully, “ To you, a great gift has been given, of the future know. Be mindful of this gift.” Emerita bowed, “Yes Master.” She and Kenai turned and left.

....to be continued......

[Emerita]

CHAPTER FOUR



Emerita woke up and got out of bed. Today was her twenty first birthday. She knew there would be no celebration again and had decided to just let it drift out of her mind. She stopped and looked at herself in the small reflector in her refresher. She looked so much older. She decided not to stand there and deliberate with herself for Jedi did not do such things. She thought about that it had been eleven years since she had seen her family. She decided to break the rules and go visit her mother in secret. Kenai was not in the chambers so Emerita thought it would be a good time to slip out. She knew it was forbidden, but she did not care. She has done everything expected of her. Today was her birthday and she would do what she desired. She dressed and left as quickly as she could.

Emerita walked along the street to her parent’s apartment. The building looked the same as when she left it so many years ago. She nervously stepped on the elevator and went up to her parent’s floor. Her hands were shaking so hard, she was afraid that Master Yoda would feel the vergence in the force. She stood momentarily finally trying to decide to ring the bell or walk away. Slowly her hand reached up and pressed the panel on the wall. A chime rang out. It seemed like forever before she heard someone at the door. The door slid open and there stood Emily. Words would not come out and the silence was deafening. Suddenly Emily embraced Emerita and the tears flowed down her cheeks. Emerita could not hold back the tears and they both cried happily. Emily broke away from her and took her hand and hurried her into the main living area. She called out. “Colin! Come here quickly!” Colin came into the room, “Emily, what are you yelling at….” He stopped as he looked at Emerita. “Oh My”…he said… “Emmy”……He walked to her and hugged her tightly. He looked into her eyes…. “You do not have permission to be here…….do you.” Emerita looked away and sighed, “No Father, I do not….. I could not go any longer. I needed to see you and Mother again. I don’t care what the Council will say. I have done everything that has been asked of me and I needed to do this.” Colin sat down on a long sofa and Emerita sat next to him. Emily went into the kitchen to get refreshments. Colin took her hands, “Oh my child….You are all grown up… Where did the time go?” I have heard such great things about you in the Temple. It seems that you have become the topic of conversation as of late. You have pleased the council greatly. Master Yoda has kept us abreast of everything.” Emerita smiled, “Why that crafty little …… all that preaching he did to me about the rules and he can’t keep them himself…..” She laughed. She stopped and took her hand and touched her Father’s face. “You have gotten a few wrinkles since the last time I saw you."

She looked up as Emily returned to the room with a tray of refreshments. All of Emerita’s favorites were placed neatly on the tray. Emerita looked at her mother. “You have not aged a day, Mother….” Emily looked at Colin as he spoke up. “Well, you know that your mother is not from this galaxy. The atmosphere here does not age her as it does someone that was born here….” Emerita cut him off, “Like you and me….” Colin hesitated…..then smiled, “Yes, like you and me……” Colin and Emily had deliberated over the years as to tell Emerita of her heritage and up until this moment, they thought they would, but something stopped them today. Emily brought out a small wrapped gift, “Happy birthday, my darling I have had this for awhile not knowing when I could give it to you.” Emerita took the package. She hesitated as she looked at her parents, knowing she should not even think about accepting a gift; but she could after all, leave it here…. She tore open the package and inside was a beautiful locket with Emily’s and Colin’s images in it. Emerita wiped away a tear and hugged her parents,” Oh Mother, it is beautiful…. She held it in her hand and caressed the fine engraving on the surface. “What is this engraving?” Emily took a deep breath, “That my darling is the family crest of my lineage where I am from.” Emerita answered, “Earth… in a galaxy far, far away. I remember the stories.” She thought for a moment then put the locket around her neck and tucked it in her tunic. No one would ever have to know. “This will be our secret…”


Emerita stayed as long as she dared as to not alert the council of her absence. She kissed her parents and left. She thought over in her mind what she would tell Kenai and hope that she would not see through her deception. Emerita entered the chambers and Kenai was still not there. Emerita had been gone for three hours and surely someone should have missed her. Then she suddenly remembered the council meeting and hurried out the door. She got to the council chambers and a guard slowly opened the door and Emerita slipped in. The room was filled with Jedi and there was a debate ensuing. It appeared that there was an uprising on one of the prison planets on the outer rim and they had asked the council for their help in retaking control. Only two of the council opposed the action so it was passed and the Jedi were chosen. Emerita and Kenai were two that were to go. Emerita felt fear for the first time in the pit of her stomach. She quietly made her way to Kenai. Kenai looked at her, “Where have you been. You knew about the meeting this afternoon…” Emerita bowed her head, “I am sorry Master, I needed to be alone, so I took a walk” Kenai looked closely at Emerita but said nothing. The meeting was dismissed and the chosen Jedi were given their travel orders.