WARNINGS: This is prior to The Phantom Mence by about five years, making
Obi-Wan twenty. This is a work in progress, don't worry.. I work on it
daily... :) A "city surfer" is a mixture of skateboarder, snowboarder, free
jumper and in all extreme sports.

DISCLAIMER: Mr. Lucas, if you are reading. You know what belongs to you and I
know what belongs to me. 'Nough said, eh? ^_^

CRITIQUE: Hope you like this one, feedback is enjoyed. Thanks..

~<<<>>>~*********************************************~<<<>>>~

Young eyes peered down on the paper with the headlines reading, “Infamous
Pirate and Popular City Surfer: Dark Star has been killed in freak accident!”
The reader shook her head, not believing the words. Folding the paper, the
young girl filled the vendor's hand full of coins and turned, making her way
down the walkway. The planet of Coruscant was large, a perfect place for Dark
Star and her gang to surf the skies. Whirling around having been bumped, the
girl found herself gazing upon the entrance of the elite surfer hang out.
Putting the paper in the trash, she slipped into the establishment. Loud
music thudded against her chest as she stood in the doorway, eyes scanning
the room’s inhabitants. The races and species ranged from human to Rodian.
The young girl herself, looked no older than twelve, and was very much human.
Long brown hair braided to about the middle of her back, with bows in a twist
or two. A pretty little blue dress accented nothing of the small frame, and
her slender body was no taller than the bar counter itself. This was
definitely no place for a child of her age, but she struck in.
There! In the corner of the room gathered a group of men around a table,
sky boards resting against the backs of chairs. City Surfers. At the darkest
corner of the table sat a figure, arms crossed over a heavy chest, and a
single-eyed gaze that pierced the smoke in the room scanned the little girl.
That was them, the group she was looking for, and the figure had to be the
single person she was sent to find. Cutting her way through the people, the
young girl squirmed over to the gathering.
“Excuse me?” Her soft voice unheard over the music. Clearing her throat,
she tried again. “Excuse me?!” Heads turned to focus all eyes on her, the
figure sipped a drink and the gaze on the girl intensified. She swallowed
hard, and straightened herself. “I’m looking for Dark Star.” The request
made each of the men exchange glances, while the momentary silence suddenly
broke into an uproar of laughter. One of the men, a Dug, stared at the figure
in the corner, shrugging his shoulders.
“That was funny, kid, now get outta here before you get hurt.” One man
exclaimed, wiping tears from his eyes. “Come on, fellas. Lets get another
drink.” All the men eased away from the table, boards in hand and went to
take post at the bar.
“Don’t you know that Dark Star’s dead, kid?” The lone figure asked,
taking another drink.
“I don’t believe that, I was just sent here to find Dark Star. The
newspapers can’t be right.”
“Believe it, kid. Dark Star’s dead.” The owner of the voice was female,
the child discovered. Getting a closer look, what she had seen was clarified;
the speaker only had one eye. Where the right eye would have been, a black
patch rested over an inch wide white scar that slashed from mid-forehead down
to her cheekbone. The woman was older about thirty-five of so, and yet her
beauty glowed from under the tear on her face. A leather jacket littered with
patches covered muscular arms and shoulders. “I really suggest you get out of
here, kid-o. This isn’t a place for little girls.” The voice was muffled by
the start of a louder song blasting over the speakers.
“I can’t leave until I find Dark Star!” She shouted, digging her fingers
into her dress out of frustration. The woman shrugged and got out from behind
the table and into the light. One of the patches on the right breast of her
jacket was “Dark Star’s” emblem. A black eight pointed star, four large
points and four small, bordered by silver and gold. The girl gasped and
smiled, pointing outright. “You are Dark Star. Only she has that patch!”
Either not hearing her or ignoring her, the woman moved past her men, tapping
them on the back as she headed out the door. All seven of them hustled to
guzzle their drinks and followed her out. The girl scowled and turned,
rushing out the back where she found their speeders. Moving quickly she
jumped into the back seat and laid on the floor, covering herself with a
blanket. The men laughed and joked, as they entered the two speeders. The
Dug, a Rodian and three other humans climbed into the young girl’s speeder,
while the woman and the final human started up the second vehicle. The
engines revved and they sped off into the sky, the men whooping and hollering.
The hotel parking area was empty but for the two vehicles, it being the
off-season not much business traffics at that time. Everyone exited the
speeders, carrying boards and bags, working their way toward their room. The
girl sighed and rubbed her side, having been kicked a number of times by the
Dug. Crawling up onto the seat, she glanced around and saw a huge case.
Opening it, her eyes grew wide in awe. A silver sky board glimmered brightly
in the dull lighting. Her fingertips reached out to touch it, but.... a
voice. She gasped and looked around, on an impulse she squeezed herself into
the case with the sky board, closing it. Breathing heavily, she searched in
the darkness for a method of getting air. Small holes were drilled into the
thick plastic. Bringing her face close to the holes, she used them as a
viewer to see who was coming. The Dug emerged from the parking area door, and
sprang into the back seat. Wrapping his arms around the case, he picked it up
and growled.
“Heavy! Too heavy.” He hefted it onto his back, and let out a breath.
“Cogi must check his board, he no float, he fall.” The Dug grunted, carrying
the burden upstairs.


* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

The room was rather lavish for the gang of surfers, but the
accommodations always took care of them. The main living space is where the
men slept and the room in the back was the woman’s. Most had eased themselves
onto the chairs and sofas, watching the vid-net intently as the reporter
spoke of Dark Star, all the men laughed. The Dug entered the room and
squawked, falling over, dropping the case onto the floor. The latch popped
open and spilled out the young girl, who frantically grabbed for the edges of
her dress. Everyone froze but Cogi, who ran to his board, cursing under his
breath.
“Doe-pa! Damn it! You be careful with my board, man!.... Hey, I don’t
remember putting this girl in the case.” Cogi exclaimed calmly, cradling his
board like a baby. The Dug, Doe-pa, rubbed his head, staring at the other
contents of the case. The woman’s eye peered over the edge of the vid-screen
she was reading, with an eyebrow raised in interest.
“Well, at least she’s out of the bar.” She said plainly, putting the
vid-screen down on her leg. Doe-pa and Cogi hauled the girl to her feet,
allowing her to compose herself. “What can we do for you?”
“I know you’re Dark Star, you can’t lie to me.”
“What makes you think that? Everyone else assumes that Dark Star is a
man, an evil pirate that is now dead.”
“Because only a woman would be smart enough to let people believe that
only men can be evil pirates, and then get away with murder.” The woman
grinned, nodding slightly.
“Clever girl. Alright, yes.. I am Dark Star. Now what can we do for you?”
“I knew it!” She mused, turning a circle in her spot. “My parents are
dead, but before they died I was told to find you, and that you would protect
me. You owed my parents a life debt.” Dark Star leaned forward in her chair,
placing her elbows on her knees.
“I don’t owe anyone a life debt,” Her eye narrowed in thought.
“They got you out of prison once, and you said you owed them.” The
pirate’s back straightened with the returning memories. She cursed under her
breath softly and shook her head.
“You owed someone a life debt, boss?” Cogi asked, having taken a
position on the arm of the sofa.
“That was years ago... I had forgotten. I was a different person then.. I
hadn’t become the Dark Star you know, yet..” She reveled with a deep and
heavy sigh.
“Please help me, I don’t have anywhere else to turn... and the people
who killed my parents are still searching for me...”
“Look, kid-o. I’m not equipped to be able to care for you. Our lives
aren’t easy as it is. I have seven kids to watch over, I don’t need another
one.” She gestured to the band of men, with a slight grin.
“Yeah, she’s ri-... Hey!” Doe-pa exclaimed, making the other men chuckle.
“The life debt is still in effect, you have no choice.” The young girl’s
voice was dangerous, and her eyes stared into Dark Star’s blue orb. The
leader sighed again, and shook her head, rubbing her face with rough hands.
“Set up a cot for her in my rooms, we’ve got another traveler,” Dark
Star stated. “So, what’s your name girl?”
“Ember,” She said, small tears brimming the lower lids of her eyes.
“Well, Ember, the Dug is Doe-pa, the three on the couch are tall blonde
Cogi, tall dark hair Doemoi, and the fat Hutt of a man is Drev. At the bar is
Mad Rad, the rodain, the multi-hair colored chain smoker is Toke and the
silent wisp of a genius is Loader. And I am of course, the leader, Dark Star.
You should go get settled in my room. If you need clothes, we’ll see what we
can find you. That dress won’t do.” The girl nodded and went to the room,
closing the door behind her.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

A bare back and buttocks were the only things visible over the edge of
the bath tub. Star’s long dark curls attempted to work themselves free of
their pins. The eye patch lay on the counter near the sink, beside a long
cylindrical item. The vid-screen beeped at the woman, as she laid on her
stomach, reading the news. Long legs and smooth flesh had tracks of scars and
old wounds, having seen more action than a woman should. Eyes rested on her
from the doorway of the bathroom. Doemoi shifted to lean against the door
jamb, arms crossed over his chest. They had done this often enough that both
were comfortable. The two were not lovers, but they were close.
“What is this about a life debt?” Her second in command inquired, his
eyes never leaving her. She poked at the vid-screen changing the volume of
the news.
“Years ago, I was arrested. Trafficking and a few other things. I had
gained my famous idealistic reputation of city surfer at the time, and I
hadn’t delved into the other illegalities. I was merely, Dark Star, the
number one surfer in three systems,” She placed the vid-screen on the floor
and rolled over, revealing medium sized breasts, more scar-marked skin and
an eerie stretch of skin over the socket where a matching blue eye once
rested. “Yasmeen and Dojonin Tatra were high level officials in Coruscant at
the time. They thought I was a good roll model not including the
circumstances and the charges got dropped. If they wouldn’t have been, I
would have faced life imprisonment or death.”
“This kid is their daughter then. I wonder what happened, we’ll have to
see if we can’t get that information from the child.”
“There’s something else here.. I can sense it.. I just can’t put my
finger on it. There’s another reason why she’s here, but... I don’t know.
Maybe I’m reading into things to much...” Moving the vid-screen, Star
emerged from the tub and grabbed the towel, beginning to dry herself off.
“You’d know better than I would...” Doemoi stepped back toward the
bedroom and looked at the open doorway. Doe-pa and Cogi stood there, watching
closely while Star moved behind a changing screen and pulled on her clothes.
“Why don’t we get to see her naked?” Cogi asked, truly wanting to know,
with as serious a look as he could give.
“Yeah!” Doe-pa agreed.
“You’re just not special.” Doemoi replied, staring at the two surfers.
“I’m special.” Doe-pa said softly.
“No you’re special-ed.” Cogi wrapped an arm around Doe-pa’s neck and
started giving him a noogie. The two started to wrestle their way into the
living room. Star sighed, emerging in a skin tight black leather body suit.
Leaning, she zipped up her boots and straightened her back, pulling out the
pins from her hair. The black curls tumbled down to her shoulders, and she
gripped the pins. Opening her hand, the pins floated to the counter in the
bathroom and the eye patch returned in their stead. *Oh, my gods,* Ember
thought to herself as she watched from under the blankets of her bed. *She
couldn’t be.* Star sat in front of her mirror and put the patch on, adjusting
her hair so it would cover the straps of the patch. Reaching for a pair of
silver gauntlet-like cuffs, she put them on and grabbed a black helmet.
Doe-pa and Cogi returned to the doorway, Cogi still clinging to
Doe-pa’s neck.
“Are we going tonight?!” Doe-pa asked, hopeful.
“Yup, let’s get ready, boys. Time to surf.” Dark Star stated with a
grin. Doemoi nodded, and went to ready the two man speeder, grabbing his own
equipment on the way.
“Where are we going?” Ember asked, sitting up in bed.
“Surfing. You can go, but you’re staying in the speeder with Doe-pa,
understood?”
“Yeah!” The girl pulled on her shoes, and adjusted the pants and shirt
Star had cut and made for her. Everyone hastily exited, locking the doors
behind them. The fun was just beginning.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

The Jedi Council Chamber always had the ability to intimidate, but for
some reason this day was different. Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn and his
apprentice stood in the room’s center, surrounded by their colleagues. Master
Mace Windu leaned forward, placing his elbows on his knees.
“Thank you for coming so quickly, Master Qui-Gon, but your services are
urgently required.” Master Windu stated, nodding once.
“It wasn’t very difficult, we were not that far out of the system. What
is the reason for the urgency?” Qui-Gon glanced to his padawan.
“The daughter of high socialites Yasmeen and Dojonin Tatra has gone
missing, and the two were killed a day prior to her disappearance.” He
resettled himself in the chair, linking his fingers together as a holographic
disk floated to Qui-Gon. “We believe she is afraid and alone, if not
kidnapped. It is in our mandate to find her, and bring her back to her
remaining family.”
“Any idea of her whereabouts?” He turned it on, revealing the young girl
in the very same dress she was wearing when she met Dark Star.
“We believe she is still here in Coruscant. Any other information is
still in the process of reaching us.”
“Where was she last seen?”
“Her nursemaid saw the young girl run out the door and head toward the
clubs and bars area. She tried to run after her, but the girl eluded the
woman.” Qui-Gon nodded and bowed deeply turning off the image, his apprentice
a shadow of his master, following his movements.
“We will start our investigation immediately, and inform you when we have
new information.”
“May the Force be with you,” Master Windu exclaimed, nodding to the men.
“And you, Masters,”
Standing in the turbo-lift, Obi-Wan Kenobi shifted slightly, a bit
unsteady. The twenty year old was still quite impulsive, and going on
assignment with such little information made him uneasy.
“You must clear your thoughts, my padawan. Your thoughts stray and make
you anxious.”
“Yes, Master. I just don’t like the idea of investigating something as
serious as this on that little information.”
“We will just have to let the Force guide us, my young apprentice.”
Qui-Gon folded his hands in front of him as they exited the turbo-lift and
left the building. “First the bar and club sector, there must be a reason why
this child wanted to go there.”
After a taxi ride to their destination, the two Jedi emerged onto the
walk way. Eyes already set on them, and a number of people began to disappear
from the streets, evacuating. The Jedi Master made his way to a magazine and
newspaper vendor, placing his hand on the counter. The holograph turned on
and the male vendor cast his eyes down at it.
“Sir, have you seen this young girl?” Qui-Gon asked calmly, his eyes
focused upon the man’s. Obi-Wan kept his watch on the people surrounding
them, not wanting to be caught by surprise.
“As a matter of fact I have,” The old man exclaimed, smiling. “That
little speck of a girl came through here today. Asked me if I knew which bar
the pirates hang out at. I told her a little one like her should just go home
and dream about pirates, not want to meet them. She insisted, and I pointed
her toward the bar called, “800”. That’s were all those pirates and city
surfers go. She thanked me and gasped, grabbing one of my papers. I guess she
was upset to find out that the pirate, Dark Star, was killed. She paid for
the paper, and started walking toward the bar.”
“You are aware the girl is only twelve years old?” Obi-Wan inquired,
crossing his arms.
“No.. I knew she looked young, but that poor thing.. I hope those pirates
didn’t do anything to her.”
“That’s what we’re trying to find out, sir. Thank you. Have a good
day.” Qui-Gon stepped away, leaving some money on the counter and grabbing a
paper. The same headlines the girl had read were printed on the front page.
He shook his head in thought and stuffed it in his pocket, keeping the
holograph in his hand.
“Pirates? Why would she be looking for pirates?” Obi-Wan thought out
loud, while they walked down toward the bar.
“I’m not sure, but this ‘Dark Star’ must be the pirate she was looking
for.”
“Dark Star is male, isn’t he, Master?”
“That’s what all the papers say,”
“Curious,”
“Indeed. Here we are.” Qui-Gon entered the building, loud music blowing
against them, they inched over to the bar. “Excuse me, have you seen this
girl?” The holograph flicked on, and the bartender peered at it, before
something outside the doors caught his attention.
“Yea, I saw ‘er. She just went that way in a speeder with those damned
city surfers.” He pointed, and two speeders echoed down the street. “She was
talkin’ with them earlier. They’re regulars here, never cause me trouble,
but I still don’t like ‘em.”
“Thank you,” The jedi said hurriedly, rushing out the doors, as the
speeders headed east along the main road. A yell alerted Qui-Gon to turn and
find Obi-Wan beside him in a speeder. Qui-Gon hopped in and they were on
their way, the speeder's owner screaming after them. “That was unwise, my
apprentice.”
“We need to reach them.” He said simply, and they sped off, attempting
to catch up.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“Let’s put her down on top of the office high rise.” Star shouted to
Doemoi, who nodded once and turned the vehicle, buzzing upward along the
building to land. The second group landed behind them, and turned off their
engine. “Let’s get ready, the winds are good tonight.” Dark Star and Doemoi
trotted to the edge, and Cogi came up on Star’s left side, buckling on his
board as he balance on the molding. “Ready?”
“When ever you are,” Doemoi answered, pulling down the visor on his
helmet. Dark Star looked to the other men and nodded, setting her helmet on
her head.
“Meet us at the bottom...” Loader gave a thumbs-up in reply, making his
way to the two man speeder. Star shot a glance to Doemoi, then to Cogi,
pulling down the black visor of her own helmet. With a sharp nod, they dove
off the roof top, flipping into the air. Cogi shouted merrily, twisting his
body in the free fall. Staring down, all three saw many obstructions. But one
large ship in their path was not moving quick enough to be out of their way
by the time they’d reach it. Dark Star threw out her arms and urged her sky
board upward, allowing it to catch the draft she needed and send her into a
glide. Her reflection in the windows mimicked her exactly, while she weaved
in between buildings, drawing on their personal gravity for pull. Doemoi
accompanied her, tipping his board to sail the breeze slipping past a corner.
Cogi dove in front of them, knocking the two aside with his tail wind,
rushing the slow-moving ship. At the last moment, he hauled his board up and
zipped through traffic, spinning radically, his lips moving to whatever song
seemed to play in his head.
Slowly, the Raging trio made their way to the landing location; the roof
top of a small diner. The boards skittered on the rocky surface and brought
them to a stop. Dark Star pulled off her helmet and whooped loudly, throwing
her head back.
“Gods, that felt good!” She exclaimed, shaking out her hair. Doemoi and
Cogi were congratulating each other with high-fives as the speeder eased clos e to them, Loader in the driver’s seat.
“Good air?” The older man asked, draping an arm on the passenger seat.
“You bet your sweet Coruscantian ass, it was good air!” Cogi demanded,
jumping in beside him, putting his board on his lap. Star fixed her board
onto the back of the machine and rested herself on it with a wistful sigh.
Doemoi hopped on beside her and crossed his legs, gripping the hand holds
tightly. With a jolt, they took flight, taking them back to the high rise.
Returning to the start point, the group had visitors and they appeared to
be “official”. The speeder stopped and Dark Star slid off the back; Doemoi
close at her heels. Cogi rushed to walk equal with the second-in-command, his
eyes intent on the newcomers. Ember gasped and ran to Star, hiding behind her.
“What’s going on here? Can we help you?” Her voice was bland, and
dangerous in its focus. The two strangers adjusted themselves to face the
speaker, and dropped the hoods covering their faces.
“We were sent to find that girl, and we wish to take her back to her
family.” The tallest, and oldest of the men stated. “I am Qui-Gon Jinn, and
this is my apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi.”
“Jedi..” She spat, her eye danced with amusement. Obi-Wan’s eyes
narrowed slightly at her contempt. “And, why have you not left with her yet?”
“She refused to come with us.”
“Is that true?” Star cast her eye upon the young girl who nodded.
“I want you to protect me. I told the Jedi to tell my family I’m in good
hands.” The woman shrugged and shook her head with a coy smile.
“There you go, gentlemen. She doesn’t want to go with you.”
“We have no choice, I’m afraid. It's mandated by the Jedi Council we
return her.” Master Qui-Gon explained, adjusting his stance as the Force
shifted, telling him this situation was about to get worse.
“The Jedi Council, eh? You hear that, kid-o. They have to take you.”
Star commented, her voice calm. Doemoi knew that tone, and he never liked the
results that came from it.
“I am not going.” Ember said stubbornly, thrusting out her chin in
imperial defiance. Star maneuvered the girl between her and the jedi, and
backed up a few steps, the edge of the building drew near.
“Once again, Master Qui-Gon, she doesn’t wish to go with you.”
“She doesn't have a choice, and we will take her by force, if
necessary.” The jedi laid his hand on his lightsaber, ready to ignite it at
any moment, his apprentice copying him carefully.
“Is that so? Well, you’ll have to catch us first.” Star leaned back,
grinning. She and Ember began a long drop from the roof of the building. The
girl shrieked before closing her eyes, holding on to Star’s arm.
Constricting in the air, the surfer put the girl on her back, wrapping
the tiny arms around her neck, and delicate legs around her waist. Ember held
tight, not liking the feeling of falling.
“Stupid.. !” Doemoi rushed to the speeder and jammed it on, hoping to
catch up with them. Luckily it didn't take to much time to find them and he
positioned the vehicle in front of the two falling females. Star calculated
heedfully, not wanting to attempt the motion and fail. A pump of her legs and
she grappled on to the back of the machine roughly. With a violent jolt,
their chariot's momentum took over, making Ember slip down to cling to Star’s
legs. She peeled the girl off her and put the shaking child in the passengers
seat. “Welcome to our flight, please buckle up, this is going to be ugly.”
The man announced playfully. Noting, they were being tailed by the visitors,
Doemoi whistled. “You have company!” Dark Star’s head whipped back, the jedi
were definitely behind them and closing. Reaching down, the surfer snapped
her feet into the holds of her board. Leaning forward, she gripped a bar
resting near the seats. Yanking, a cord extended and with a press of a button
on the bar, the board released throwing her off the speeder’s back.
Retaining her balance, Star felt around her sides discovering her small
hand blaster and grinned. Back flipping, she soon faced the jedi and raised
her weapon. Shots flew past their heads, causing them to duck and their
vehicle wheeled to avoid being hit.
“Is she trying to hit us?” Obi-Wan screamed, the blade of his lightsaber
ignited. He deflected the blasts, and maneuvered to keep them from hitting
him.
“No, this is a deterrent. She’s attempting to get us to back away.”
Qui-Gon answered, steering to dodge every blast he could. The padawan shook
his head with a very heavy sigh and a saddened look in his eyes. Star hit the
button on the bar again, and the cord let out more, getting her closer to
them. The blasts appeared to strike more accurately. “I have an idea.” They
drove to bear down on her this time, bringing themselves nearer to her. The
vehicles flew side-by-side and Obi-Wan smiled at her, before the jedi’s
speeder flipped over the top of her. Snap! The cord was gone. Star plummeted,
her method of momentum gone. Now gravity took it’s hold, and she strained to
get the tip of her board leveled out. Just when the draft received her, a
lightsaber cut straight through her board; knocking her back into a free
fall. She growled furiously, that being one of her favorite boards. Kicking
the useless pieces away, she back flipped and twisted to face the jedi, who
were now plunging after her. This wouldn’t do. Dark Star of the Raging trio
would not be bested by mere Jedi. They didn’t even know of her game and how
it was played. She’d like to see how stable they are on a sky board someday.
Something caught the corner of her eye, and she smiled, looking up to them.
She waved her fingers childishly. Bending her body backwards and catching the
back of a passing transport, her free fall ended abruptly. Climbing onto the
hull, she gasped at the screaming pain in her arms. It had been years since
she pulled a stunt like that, and her body was definitely going to remind
her. Her eye watched the jedi trying to maneuver to track her, but a huge
refugee vehicle yielded in their way.
“You look like you need a lift?” Doemoi’s voice echoed over the sound of
the moving ship. Star searched to find the two man speeder and her second
awaiting. She vaulted off the ship’s hull and landed on the back.
“Get me out of here!” She slipped in beside him, and put Ember on her
lap. She hugged Star around the neck, tears falling from her eyes. The
engines revved and they disappeared in the crowd of vehicles.
The jedi finally made their way around the ship to find them gone.
“We lost them, Master.” Obi-Wan remarked, scanning the area for any sign
of them.
“We’ll find them, or she’ll come to us.”

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“Hey, that’s not fair.” Cogi demanded. He, Toke, Mad Rad and Drev were
playing a vid-extreme game when the escapees got back, not wanting to do much
else. Relaxation. Night was when the group eased off their shoes and reality.
Loader clicked away on a computer, and his glasses reflected the images of
numbers on the screen. Doemoi stole a seat beside him, and picked up a large
computer mother board. Holding a small piece up to the light, he investigated
it in some way, turning the piece in every direction. Snoring erupted in the
direction of the sofa, and huddled under a blanket was Doepa, out for the
night.
~What am I thinking?~ Dark Star thought to herself, staring at the
sleeping little girl. ~I can’t take care of her. I’m no protector.~ She got
up and paced her room, her eye still on Ember. With a sigh, she exited into
the main living space, bypassing the vid-game players. A plop and she seated
herself next to Doemoi, grabbing a part of the mother board.
“You’re right,” The man said without looking at her, and elbowed Loader;
who quickly got the hint and evacuated.
“I just can’t take care of her, Doe, I really can’t. However much I want
to, it wouldn’t be doing her justice.” Star’s voice weighted with
thoughtfulness.
“You need to talk to the Jedi.”
“What makes you think after my display they would want to talk to me?
Especially when I shot at them.”
“They need to get the girl anyway. They won’t stop till they do, you
know that.”
“You’re right, as usual.” She propped her elbows on the counter,
reaching for a piece of paper and a pen. Scribbling gracefully, she whistled
a brisk tune, and Cogi came running with Loader in tow. “I need one of you to
take this to Qui-Gon Jinn, and since you both know where the Jedi Temple is
you can fight it out among yourselves who has to take it. It must, however be
delivered by tonight.” Cogi took the note and shot a glance to Loader.
“You want me to take it, or do you want it?” Cogi asked, his eyes
pleading.
“I don’t have stupid written on my forehead, boy, I’m not gonna take it.”
“Look, gentlemen,” Star said tiredly. “I’ll flip a coin for it.” The
woman pulled a coin from the pocket of her robe. “Cogi, call it.”
“Heads.” The younger man stated, while the coin floated in the air and
fell into her hand.
“Tails.”
“Damn,” Cogi exclaimed, heading toward the door, he grabbed his cloak
and left.
“I’m going to bed, I’ll see everyone in the morning.” Star eased
herself back into her room.
“Night!” Everyone said together, with a slight pause and a deep snore,
she shut the door.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

A blonde head poked around the corner of a doorway.
“Why do I always get the annoying jobs?” Cogi asked himself, making his
way past the entry way of the Jedi Temple. Two staff members stood in the
entrance hall, talking softly as Cogi approached. “Hey, do you know Master
Qui-Gon Jinn?”
“Yes, we do,” The tallest of the two said, with a nod, eyeing Cogi
suspiciously.
“Good, make sure he gets this, it’s urgent.” The young man turned and
ran for the door. Jumping into his speeder, he fumbled the controls before
speeding away. One gave the other a curious gaze. Shaking their heads, they
walked up a flight of stairs.
“We’d best get this to Master Jinn, whatever it is.”
They stopped in front of a door, and knocked softly. With an abrupt
motion the door opened, and behind it stood the one they were looking for.
“Master Jinn, this was left for you downstairs by a young man. He asked
that we deliver it for him.” The initial speaker explained, handing over the
piece of paper.
“I see, thank you.” He nodded to the two, and turned away from the
closing door. “What did I tell you, Obi-Wan? She came to us.” The master sat
down at a table and opened the paper, reading it silently.

“Master Jinn,
I feel that we didn’t exactly get off at an easy introduction. I wish
to speak with you. If you could come to 9919 Hotel Way, Room # 1717, tomorrow
morning, I would greatly appreciate it. I believe you were right, and I wish
to make it up to you.
Dark Star”

“What does it say, Master?” Obi-Wan sat next to him, his arms over his
chest.
“We go to meet her in the morning, she wants to give us the girl.”
“That easily?”
“We’ll see.”

-----------
* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

The following morning, a knock came on the door of the hotel. Doemoi got
up from his chair and looked through the peek-hole. Peering over his shoulder
his eyes rested on Star, who was seated on the couch, Ember’s head in her
lap. The young girl was asleep and she was reading the morning news on the
vid-screen.
“The Jedi are here,”
“Let them in, and take her into my room, please?” Doemoi pressed a bu tton on the wall, and the door opened.
“Please come in, gentlemen.” He made his way over to Star, picking Ember
up carefully, and taking her to the bedroom.
“As I had stated in my message, Master Jinn, I feel we had gotten off to
a poor start, and I’ve had time to reevaluate the best for Ember. Have a
seat,” Star gestured to the table, sitting next to it. The men sat and
crossed their arms, faces serious.
“What made you change your mind?” Qui-Gon inquired, leaning an elbow on
the table top.
“I can’t take care of her... My job isn’t exactly legal, and it is all
around dangerous. I’m not equipped to care for a child, and you Jedi are
better trained for dealing with children. I don’t want to let her go, and I
know she doesn’t want to, but to give her to you would be in her best
interests.” Her eye had a saddening look to it, and her body language told
another story than her words.
“I don’t want to ‘take’ her from you, Dark Star. I merely wish to
return her to the family members looking for her.”
“Can I make a deal with you?”
“What kind of deal?”
“Come with us, the day after tomorrow to the exhibition. My crew and I
are scheduled to be leaving a day after that. We need to be on Alderan for
another exhibition in a week. If you come with us, it will give her time to
get used to you. If she starts to like you, perhaps she won’t be so hard to
take away.”
“Interesting tactic...” Qui-Gon dropped his eyes to the table top, and
took a deep breath. “Agreed. We will meet you for the exhibition. What time
do you want us to be here?” Obi-Wan’s mouth hung loosely on his face,
surprised by his master.
“About the same time you came today, we need to leave early. There won’t
be enough room in our transports, I suggest you bring your own method of
travel. We need to go to the outskirts, where the high-rises are abandoned.
That’s where they hold the Coruscant Classic every year.”
“Is there anything else you need to discuss with me?”
“Not that I can think of at this point, Master Jinn. I only hope this
comes out well for her. I could care less of my own feelings, but she is
important; life debt or no.”
“I understand, Dark Star, until then.” He stood up and bowed deeply,
turning to the door. Obi-Wan shot up out of his seat and glared at her,
whipping about to follow his master. She chuckled softly, shaking her head,
the door sliding shut behind them. Doemoi had taken up his position behind
her, arms over his chest.
“That went well, under the circumstances.” He said, plainly.
“Is she still asleep?”
“As far as I know,”
“Good. She’s not going to make this easy on any of us.” She ran her
fingers through her hair, leaning back in her chair.
“Let’s just hope the Jedi can put on a good show.”

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“I can’t believe you agreed to this, Master.” Obi-Wan exclaimed, walking
toward the hotel room. “She’s a pirate and you are going by her terms. She
should be doing quite the opposite.”
“You have much to learn, my young apprentice. In an agreement like this,
the rules are just guidelines. You must make up your own method of using
them.” Qui-Gon came to rest in front of the door, looking to his padawan.
“You must learn greater tolerance for the outer world, or you are going to
wake up rudely one day, Obi-Wan.”
“Yes, Master.” Qui-Gon knocked on the door. Without hesitation it opened
to reveal Doepa and Ember on his back, a bright smile on her face.
“The Jedi are here!” She shouted. Doepa made his way past them and down
the hall at a trot, the girl giggled happily. Drev and Toke emerged with arm
fulls of large cases, causing the Jedi to move aside. Loader followed, a
briefcase in one hand, and a communicator in the other. Mad Rad carried a
large case on his shoulder, almost bumping it into Obi-Wan and Cogi grinned
at them.
“Today’s the day,” He said excitedly, bouncing around. Doemoi gestured,
and Dark Star stepped through the doorway. A dark blue tank top fitted itself
to her torso under the leather jacket. Blue jeans hugged her elegant hips and
black boots made her a few inches taller.
“You showed? Good.” She smiled at them, and waited for the door to
close so Doemoi could join them.
“Of course,” Qui-Gon said simply, and began following them.
“Well, you Jedi are in for a real treat today,” Doemoi put himself
between them and Star. “Dark Star surfs to retain her championship title.”
“Yeah, especially since they all still think I’m dead.” She explained,
humor filling her voice.
“The papers say you’re dead as well, they also say you’re a man.”
Obi-Wan added.
“Well, what little they know, padawan.” Star shot a glance at the young
man, who merely narrowed his eyes at her. The way she said “padawan” irked
something in Obi-Wan, and he didn’t like it. The group stood at the vehicles,
awaiting orders and instructions. “You brought your own transport, correct?”
“Yes,”
“All right, gentlemen,” She approached, tossing her pack into the
speeder. “We go today to fight harder in a competition than we have ever
fought. We need to step up, and make our move. Show them who you are and that
you will win. Understood?”
“Aye-Aye,” They all said together, nodding.
“Let’s go,” She jumped into the speeder, Ember crawling into her lap and
Doemoi climbed into the driver’s seat. The Jedi moved to their speeder and
turned it on, watching the group shift in the experience of long years
together. The other speeders came to life and jolted, taking off rapidly.
Qui-Gon engaged his speeder’s thrusters to keep up with the group. Before
long a large expanse of abandoned buildings and metal mills which the city
surfers called, home lay out in front of them. Taking them down into the
depths of the smoke and smog, they came out into an area filled with booths.
Parking near the other transports, Team Dark Star bailed out and waited for
the jedi. Loud music blared in their ears from speakers everywhere. People
cheered on the surfers already practicing in the arena.
“A bit slow, aren’t ya?” Mad Rad commented, pulling one of the cases
from the back seat. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan investigated their surroundings, but
the backs of heavily covered booths sat in their way.
“Oh, no. That will not due,” Star announced, handing Doemoi her bag.
“Here’s the deal, gentlemen. While you’re here, if you want to walk in our
world, you have to act like you’re from our world. And the cloaks ain’t
gonna cut it.”
“I am not removing my cloak,” Obi-Wan protested harshly.
“We will do what we must to make it easier for you,” Qui-Gon removed his
cloak, discarding it on his speeder. Obi-Wan jutted out his chin proudly,
crossing his arms over his chest. “Now, Obi-Wan.” The apprentice grumbled
and slid out of the cloak, throwing it on top of his master’s.
“If you can, hide your lightsabers in you boots, or somewhere. They
don’t take to well at knowing there’s authorities around.” Star whistled
sharply and the group hustled to follow her, making their way down the
passage between booths.
“Where are we headed?” Master Qui-Gon asked, hiding his lightsaber in
the back of his breeches.
“To our booth, we set up to sell our custom sky boards and compete
yearly. We get the same booth every time we come here, hell we should, we pay
enough for it.” Star explained, her body weaving around strangers passing
her. Finally, they had reached it after walking completely a crossed the
arena to get to it. Loader, Mad Rad, Cogi and the others set to work
immediately. “You know what to do, Loader, get us on line. Drev and Toke, now
is a good a time as any.” The two men nodded and went back toward the other
booths.
“What are they going to do?”
“Loader gets us on-line for sales, Drev and Toke are going to check the
prices of sky boards in other booths so we know what to charge. Doemoi is
going to get us registered, Doepa, Mad Rad and Cogi are unloading everything
to set it up. I am going to go check on the competition. You can either come
with me, or you can stay here.”
“I wanna go with you, Star.” Ember exclaimed, bouncing up and down
beside her.
“We will go with you, it will be interesting to learn about this sport
you do.”
“Sounds good, I just want to wait until they finish setting up and we’ll
go. Not to mention, there aren’t very many competitors here yet.”

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“Hey, Moron! Hello! Hand me the stupid power cufflink. If we don’t get
this done, Macari’s going to be pissed off at us both.” A young man yelled
at his companion, who appeared to be staring off.
“Sorry,” The other said, handing up the piece of equipment. “I just got
this weird feeling, like the boss ain’t gonna win this time. You know what I
mean, Traq?”
“No I don’t know what you mean. Come on, Greger, how could he not? Dark
Star’s dead. She can’t show up and beat him like she has in the past.” Traq
explained, tightening the bolt to hold his creation in place.
“I guess you’re right... But I..” Greger paused, and his eyes grew to
the size of saucers. His breath caught in his chest, preventing himself from
continuing his sentence.
“What, Gr? What were you gonna say?” Traq didn’t look at his friend, nor
did he see what the other man was staring at. Greger grabbed him and pulled
him up, pointing at a group of people. “Gods, what?!” Traq focused on them
closely, and his jaw dropped open. “Oh shit! We better get to him now, before
he sees her.” Jumping up into a run, the two men struck out for the arena.
Coming up on a small group of men standing in line, they paused.
“Macari!” One person in the line rotated, a pitch black face settled on them
and bright white eyes could be seen behind the dark lenses of his sunglasses.
Two wavy horns protruded from his forehead and laid back over his black hair,
which was held back in a ponytail.
“You two look like you’ve seen a ghost, and I have a feeling that’s
exactly what you’ve seen.” Macari Sylus kept his deep voice rather down
toned with a hint of amusement.
“She’s here,” Greger spoke up, hanging his head. The older man
straightened his back indignantly, blowing a puff of air out his nose.
“Where is she?”
“She looked like she was heading to their booth.” Greger replied,
scooting away, allowing his boss to walk past. Macari had been wondering if
the stories on the news were true. He grinned, pushing past the others, happy
Dark Star was still alive. He wanted a challenge for the title and it seemed
he would get it.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

Ember stayed close to Star, keeping an eye on the jedi at all times. She
believed, in the back of her mind, they would just take her if they had the
chance. Qui-Gon trailed behind the woman and paused occasionally at a booth,
looking upon certain objects with interest. Obi-Wan’s disgust at the whole
situation rested upon his face. He didn’t like this woman, Dark Star, but his
master wanted to know more about her. The night before he kept going on about
how she was Force sensitive. Obi-Wan shook it off, not seeing how.
“Who the hell let you in here?” A husky male voice came from behind
them. Everyone whirled around, finding a tall, stocky built man approaching
with no less than aggressive intentions. “You heard me, woman. Who let trash
like you in here?” Qui-Gon exchanged glances with his padawan, and hands went
to lightsabers. Star put her hand on the jedi Knight’s arm and shook her head.
“It was some ass-hole like you, why? What’s it to you?” She held Ember
tightly behind her, the girl attempted to come out and pitch a fit.
“Oh, well if it was an ass-hole like me... that’s ok. How the hell have
you been, Star?” The big man wrapped an arm around her, and squeezed before
releasing her carefully.
“I’ve been good, Pheal, dead, but good.”
“That’s what we heard. Everyone’s ready to jump in for your title. Since
you’re here though, it’s gonna be a bit tougher. Who are they?” Pheal
exclaimed, looking to the group standing beyond her.
“Followers, and this is a new groupie,” Star brought Ember out in front.
She nodded once, and stuck out her chin.
“Your’s?”
“Oh, hell no...”
“While I’m thinking about it and before you find out to late...
Nevermind.. here he comes,”
“And here I believed Dark Star had finally gotten her due. Damn, the
title’s going to be a bit more challenging than I expected.” Star mouthed
the name “Sylus” and closed her eye. Turning back around, they found Macari,
a grin on his lips.
“You love a challenge though, I know you.” She had positioned her body
to look at him, and yet not have her back to Pheal.
“Let’s call it how it is, Star. Forfeit the title now, and you won’t
need to experience the humiliation later.”
“I recall you saying that to me every time, Macari, and I tell you the
same thing.. every.. time.. I’ll meet you in the arena. Take my title, and
you can have it but you gotta earn it. Until about three hours, I hope you’re
prepared.” Macari bowed mockingly, and laughed walking away, his “minions”
following in his wake. Qui-Gon narrowed his eyes, watching the man leave.
“Well, are we ready to go see the others practice?” She sounded cheery,
squeezing Ember’s hand in her own.
“Yeah, let’s go,” Ember replied, smiling up at Star. Obi-Wan maneuvered
to walk beside his master, eyes on the ground.
*I don’t trust this place, Master. To much could happen here.*
~Keep your mind open, my padawan. Observe. Learn.~ The conversation had
ended, and they reached the arena. A few spectators filled the seats,
preparing themselves to cheer for their favorite surfer. Star sat and
reclined, sighing deeply. Her single eye danced with anticipation. She wanted
to be back in the air. Nothing thrilled her more... well there was one
exception... the competition itself. To do in air battle with Macari Sylus
had a different turnout each meeting. Whether he threw in a new trick, or she
stepped up on the longevity of an old one. They melded together, however much
they wanted to be separate. Like oil and water.... It was seductive. He
enticed her like a moth to a flame. Knowing very well she might get burned,
Star continued to fight fire with fire.
“Why are there three different platforms?” Ember asked, braking the
silence.
“This competition consists of three different types of city surfing. The
first and tallest platform is for the freestyle flyers. They need the most
momentum to do the most tricks in a certain time period. All events are
timed, and judged accordingly. The medium platform is used for the endurance
challenge. How long a surfer can stay in the air with only thermal up-drafts
to guide them. The final tower is... well.. it used to be for endurance
trials, but they stopped using it when someone died; fell off. They couldn’t
find the up-draft and fell straight to the ground, ten stories below.”
“What exactly are the three different events?” Qui-Gon asked, his eyes
filled with as much curiosity as the child’s.
“Freestyle, Endurance, and the All-Around. Most of the competitors here
will have teams of three, but there is a part of the competition for
individuals. Doemoi, Cogi and I are the Raging Trio. We’ve been called that
since the beginning. Cogi does the freestyle, Doemoi the endurance and I take
the All-Around.”
“The All-Around consists of...?” Qui-Gon spoke again, keeping his eyes
on the falling man accomplishing flips and tucks.
“The All-Around is just that. The judges expect you to show a feat of
each, freestyle and endurance. As well as throwing in your own splash of
capability. You can only get the Championship title if you compete in the
All-Around.”
“That doesn’t seem very fair,” Obi-Wan chimed in.
“The game isn’t fair. Usually it’s quite one sided. But here, they have
a mini-championship for the other challenges as well. You wouldn’t find that
at most other competitions.” Star answered curtly. Static fizzled from
Star’s gaunlet-like cuff and she brought it up.
“Go ahead, Loader.”
“Boss, you better get back and start getting ready. Main office says
thirty minutes.”
“Understood. That’s our cue to get back.” Dark Star helped Ember out of
her seat, leaving the stands.
“So, Ember, are you looking forward to seeing Star surf?” Qui-Gon strode
beside the young girl, his padawan behind.
“Yeah, I think she’s gonna keep her title. Not even that big scary guy’s
gonna take it from her.”
“Well, I believe she is more than capable. But we haven’t even seen
Macari surf. He may be better than we think.”
“Nah!” Ember giggled, holding tightly to Star’s hand. Qui-Gon smiled at
her innocence, when his eyes grew wide. The girl had grabbed his hand, and
began swinging between them, kicking her feet. Star looked down at the child,
raising an eyebrow and lifting her arm, making her swing awkwardly. They
could have been a little family to someone who didn’t know better. An odd
family..... but a family...

-------------

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“Will all competitors come to the information booth at the front of the
arena to receive your numbers!” A voice blasted through every speaker in the
typical announcer sound. Dark Star laced up her boots, and adjusted the
skin-tight body suit she had worn the few nights before. Pulling her wrist up
close, the woman pressed a few buttons into the computer and reached down,
grabbing her helmet. Her well-formed muscles shown through the garment, and
the “Dark Star” patch rested on her right arm.
“Are we ready, kid-o?”
“Yeah! This is exciting!” Ember replied, vaulting off of the crate she
was seated on. Star knelt down to bring herself closer to the young one.
“I need you to stay with the jedi. They’ll sit with you during the
competition, and the others won’t be able to watch you. Doemoi, Cogi and I
are gonna be in the air. But if anything happens and the jedi get in trouble,
run back here and find Loader, all right?”
“Okay, I will.”
“Good girl,” Star stood with a smile, and emerged to discover the group
waiting for her. Doemoi and Cogi were dressed in similar garb as she, and had
their own patches upon their right arms. “You got my board all ready?” Cogi
nodded and lifted a black sky board off the counter. The same emblem which
she wore so everyone knew she was Dark Star had been imprinted on the
surface. She took it and bowed her head, inhaling in a deep breath. Her team
copied their leader in a silent prayer, taking the moment to thank what ever
got them there and hope for blessing to continue on. “Let’s get out there
and kick ass.” She said simply, and stepped out of the booth to walk toward
the arena. Cogi and Doemoi exchanged positive reinforcement with the rest of
the group and followed.
“I think she’s gonna win.” Ember smiled up at Qui-Gon, who brought up
the end with his apprentice.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“First up, for your enjoyment today is the freestyle event. Close
followed by the Endurance and finally, the one that I know everyone is
waiting for... the long awaited, All-Around!” The announcer shouted, drawing
a rioted cheer out of the crowd that tripled in size. “Our first contestant
comes all the way from Malistare. Let’s give it up for Orni Yomata!” Fans
clapped and threw up their hands, waiting for Orni to fall into vision.
Clouds and mist made it difficult to see the highest platform without the aid
of binoculars. Music started and Orni came quickly into view, flipping wildly
and cruising the side of the large building. Qui-Gon observed carefully. If
the other surfers were as good as this one, the competition was certainly
going to be tight. After doing a final feat for the crowd, the young
Malistarian made a hasty stop upon the ground, throwing his hands up in
excitement.
“What an awesome run for our resident trickster, Orni Yomata! Next up is
the man with the plan. One of the Raging Trio out of Team Dark Star, Cogi
Ojikura!”

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

Cogi stretched, and cracked his neck, limbering up. He hopped in place,
waiting in anticipation.
“What an awesome run for our resident trickster, Orni Yomata! Next up is
one of the Raging Trio out of Team Dark Star, Cogi Ojikura!” He barely heard
the cheers coming out of the crowd, but he heard them and it hyped him up
more. His music started, and he leaned over the edge, ready to fall. Tipping
slightly his board slid lose of the platform and he was in flight. Free fall.
An utter state of self-consciousness could be reached in free fall. Cogi
arched his back, and using his flexibility, grabbed the tip of his board. The
now circular shape began spinning in every direction. At times, Cogi spun so
rapidly his circle looked more like a sphere. Shock point, the half way mark
came hurriedly, and the young man threw out his arms, leveling out. Wrenching
upward, he edged nearer to the buildings and put his board flat on the glass
window, grabbing the molding with nimble fingers. Taking a breath, and
calculating his next trick Cogi grinned. Letting go, he threw himself away
and fell backward, twisting in the air. His body turned like a corkscrew and
plummeted downward. He leveled out again, knowing there was time for one more
trick. What would he make it be... His grin widened, and flew down toward the
crowd, arms outstretched. A back flip, he buzzed the people in the stands
beside the judges and glided in for a landing. It was over, but the rush
stayed as he cheered, jumping up and down uneasily.
“There you have it folks! It looks like Team Dark Star is back in action!
The next competitor is....” His voice trailed off, and Cogi removed his board
and stared up at a large posting station. 9.7, 9.6, 9.9, 9.9, and 9.8. He
held up his arm and nodded.
“Oh, yeah.. you know Cogi’s back.. Yea!” He shouted, and ran back to
where the group sat.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“When is Doemoi going to surf, Cogi?” Ember asked, leaning over Qui-Gon
to see the teammate.
“He’s comin’ up, kid-o. No worries. This is the last guy. Then Doe takes
the air, and you’ll see. In Endurance, Doe will blast them out of the water.”
“How many are in each trial, Cogi?”
“Umm, let’s see.. at this one.. there were ten in mine, so there will be
ten in the others. Thirty people all together fighting for a title of some
sort.”
“I think you’ll get it Cogi, you’ll see.” She smiled happily at him,
and he reached a crossed Qui-Gon to tussle her hair.
“Thanks, kid-o. You best pay attention now, Doemoi is coming up.” As if
on cue, the announcer cut in.
“Thank you for that little piece of whatever you call it, Dormin Notrice.
Our third to the last competitor of the day in the Endurance event is a real
preist to the sport. The man with the spirit! The one who could do no wrong,
Doemoi Havati!”

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

Removing his shoes, Doemoi situated his bare feet in the holds on the sky
board. Clipping the straps together, he glared past the building’s edge.
Something about flying in mist brought him to another level of flight he
enjoyed. One gained enlightenment within the depths of the beast. Hearing his
name, the surfer stood straight and prepared, looking out to the people in
the stands. Star wouldn’t be there. She gave herself time away for thought
and insight. He admired her. Everyone in the group made fun of Doemoi for his
spiritual beliefs, but Dark Star. She felt everyone needed something to get
them through the day, and if it was the hope of enlightenment, then so be it.
As it had with everyone, Doemoi’s music began and the young man eased himself
into the air. He closed his eyes, and instead of visualizing the thermals, he
felt for them. Because he never used his eyes had been the key reason behind
not wearing shoes. Sensitive skin on the bottoms of his feet were better at
identifying the heated up-drafts necessary to stay airborne. Doemoi clasped
his hands in meditation, tilting his body ever-so-slightly in a thermal. The
audience “oo’ed” and “aww’ed” unaware of the fact, the surfer did not have
his eyes open but at the graceful motions, and near falls. Time passed slowly
for endurance challengers. You had to say afloat for so long before you were
allowed to land safely, and hear the congratulations. Time meant everything.
He settled on the dirt, his board skittering to a stop. Doemoi blinked
open his eyes, and rubbed them. He grinned, and held up a hand in
accomplishment. Everyone yelled merrily, he had stayed up beyond the minimum
fifteen minutes and a round of 9.9’s shown themselves for the effort. He
bowed to the judges, then to the crowd and took his shoes from another surfer
before exiting.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

Macari glared down at the people below him. It was his turn, and he had
prepared himself. He always made sure he was the second to the last surfer to
leave the All-Around platform. The Champion was given the right to go last in
final defense of their title. The past few years, he had grown fond of the
battle between himself and Star. However, if he had his way and he lost.
Macari would merely approach her in congratulations and strike her down to
retrieve the trophy for himself. Along with experience and he found little
ways to cheat against the underlings and not be caught. But he repulsed
himself at the thought of using them against Dark Star. She was a formidable
opponent, duly noted.
“Thanks for that impeccable show of how to fall without grace Psyden
Mestin, we’ll be sure the ground is ready next time. Oh, we are in for a real
treat. From the deepest reaches of space, and the darkest places in our
hearts. You’re afraid of him, I’m afraid of him.. it is Macari Sylus!”
Pulling down his sunglasses, he leaned down tightening the straps on his
board and in the instant his music hit the air, he was off the platform. He
glided out above the arena, his white eyes judging where to put out his best
tricks. Reaching toward his sky board, he held it and plummeted.
Kick-flipping out of the nose dive, he brushed and paused on the lower
platform. Speedily, he leapt off and dove, spiraling at the ground. Dancing,
he gripped the edge of the board and released it continuously. Macari
approached the lowest platform quickly, having passed his shock point.
Dislodging his feet from the board, he tipped it to the underside and stood
upon it. The board rubbed harshly on the corner of the metal standing pad and
hissed. Turning it back to the correct side, Macari engaged the locks again
and made his way to land. Flipping forward, he narrowed his eyes. Something
was in the arena.
“Well, would you look at that.. it appears that a Psyden fan has made his
way onto the arena floor, cheering on his idol. He better get out of the way
before.. OH! Oh, my gods!” Macari had released his board, and it lodged
itself in the fan’s back, making the man scream in agony. The surfer made a
safe landing and raised his hands in utter pleasure. “Macari Sylus, ladies
and gentlemen! I thought you said you weren’t gonna kill anyone today,
Macari?” The announcer asked, receiving a shrug from the dark one as he
walked off the field.

-----------

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

Dark Star rolled her neck and shook out her arms, gaze set on Doemoi.
Instead of going back to the others, he went to her, knowing that she was
planning something drastic.
“You know when to launch it, right?” She spoke with a slight quiver in
her voice.
“Yes, Star.” She nodded, taking a deep breath.
“The competition is steeper than I remember.”
“Nah, just a lot of show-offs. Macari’s the one you know you have to
beat.”
“Well, hopefully this trick and the other will do the job.”
“Now, you’re sure about this? You really didn’t get the opportunity to
practice it before today.”
“I’m sure. If I don’t pull it off, the worst that could happen would be
meeting the ground sharply.”
“Let’s not even go there, shall we?”
“Agreed,” The two were interrupted by the voice of the announcer.
“This can’t be right! She’s dead. What do ya mean she’s here?”
“You’re mic’s on,” Another voice in the backround made the announcer
aware.
“Oh, well.. all right! The news and the papers say she’s dead. But
obviously nothing can stop our favorite golden girl from fighting for her
title. It is the one, the only... Dark Star!” The crowd roared the loudest
than before, and hauled themselves out of their seats.
“Here we go,” She said, dropping her opaque visor and taking position at
the edge as the others had. Doemoi held her board in his hands, and nodded,
waiting for his cue. The music. She dove without a board. A second later,
Doemoi tossed the board down.

“There she goes! The inital drop. You know, she’s really gonna have to
pull something out to beat Macari Sylus this year. Hopefully, she doesn’t
kill anyone. Hey... wait.. Dark Star is falling without a board, ladies and
gentlemen!”

Glancing past her shoulder, Star saw her board and opened up her body to
catch the wind. It soon met her halfway, and she maneuvered it onto her feet.
A lurch and the thermal snapped her out of free fall, carrying her toward the
buildings. Glazing off of the glass surfaces, she ran her fingers on the
tint, drawing lines in the dust. Spinning and flipping, she glided above the
stands, rioting another cheer.

“That was an amazing start, but I don’t know if it’ll be enough to pass
up Sylus.”

Her cue. Loosening her feet, she crouched and made another pass to the
stands. Like a wave the crowd reached up to her, and she grinned, back
flipping off the board, grabbing the sides. The ground loomed near and she
swung herself back onto the top of the board, sailing it out to the end.

“Oh, my gods! The old girl still has some new tricks in her. I hate to
say it, but Macari Sylus.. there’s always next year! I think Dark Star just
came back to life!” Her flight ceased, and her hands shot up with a shout.
“Oh, yeah!!”Scores flashed up behind her... straight tens.
“Congradulations to the reigning Champion of the Coruscant Classic, Dark
Star!”
Ember and the group yelled loud and proud.
Star retained her title, Doemoi became Endurance champion, and Cogi came
in second. He was slightly disappointed, but he only knew to pull out harder
next time. The champion made her way back to the booth, a piece of paper in
her hand and a withdrawn look on her face. Qui-Gon stared at her, an incline
in his head showed interest.
“Is everything all right?” He questioned, handing one of the unsold
boards to Rad to stow.
“Yes, fine. They gave me the paper work of our titles and I was informed
of another death within the area.”
“Oh? Who?”
“Macari left a message using the announcer. Wrapped the poor bastard’s
intestines around the microphone and spelled out “next year” with pieces of
bowel and flesh.” Ember’s face held a horrified look, and Obi-Wan quirked a
brow in either surprise or utter revoltion. “He never took being called
second place well.” She handed the papers to Loader, who exchanged it with a
data pad. Pressing a few buttons, Star scribbled her signature and gave it
back. “Good numbers this time ‘round. Most of our best boards were taken,
excellent job, everyone. Let’s go home.” A soft smile crossed her face, and
she leaned down, wrapping Ember’s small hand in her own.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan sat in the hotel room, listening to Cogi spout off
about the stunts of the day. Everyone busied themselves. A vid-game glared in
the backround and music emerged from the headphones on Drev. Doemoi entered
past the skiddering door, bringing groceries back for the following days
ahead. Qui-Gon’s gaze followed him intently. He had seen everyone, but Star.
He wished to talk to her hence the reason he came back to the apartment. When
Obi-Wan worked his way into a conversation about gravity with Cogi, his
master made his way to Doemoi.
“Where’s Star? I’ve seen everyone else but her.” Doemoi’s eyes reached
his and beared down on them. He sighed and put a can of vegetables on the
counter.
“She’s at ‘800’. After every competition here she goes there to
reflect. If you want to talk to her, I would suggest you wait. But you may
not have another opportunity to corner her.”
“I don’t wish to..” A raised hand interrupted him, and Doemoi shook his
head.
“I know, but she won’t tell you anything if she’s sober.” He grinned
and gestured to the door. The older man nodded his gratitude, and left the
room.
Sunlight had become unseen behind the buildings at street level which
made the air brisk and cool. Qui-Gon marched slowly, drawing his cloak around
him a bit tighter. Loud music extended beyond the opening to the
establishment and welcomed those who needed to drink away worries. At first
glance it didn’t appear a very popular place for only a few people took up
various positions throughout the common room. Dark Star ruled her corner
alone. Gripping her beer bottle loosely in her fingers, she took a swallow
and set it back down. Casting her eye upward, it met jedi tunics, and the
face of their owner.
“I take it Doemoi told you where to find me?” She lifted the bottle for
another drink, voice unstaggered. He sat and nodded.
“He told me you come here after competition to reflect.”
“Aye. I drink to my victory, and wonder how the hell I got here.”
“How did you get here?” She chuckled.
“You think I’m going to make it that easy on you?”
“It depends.” Star tapped the bar and held up two fingers, recieving a
nodded reply from the bartender.
“Well, all right then. I’ll answer your first question.”
“Which would be?”
“Yes, I am Force sensitive.” Qui-Gon blinked. She had indeed read his
mind, and probbed his thoughts without him knowing. She most likely knew more
about him, then he would ever find out about her.
“I had believed so.”
“Let me tell you a little story, perhaps it will clear things up.” She
gulped down a swallow of her beer and sigh, setting the empty bottle on the
table top. Nibble fingers grabbed the second and twisted off the cap. “There
once was a young girl from Alderan. She had been taken away to live at the
Jedi Temple when she was merely a baby. Growing up under the tutalege of the
Council, the girl learn rapidly. More so than most, which impressed even the
keen eye of Master Yoda. Time passed, and her thirteenth birthday drew near.
She had yet to be chosen by a master, and the end of the line stood around
the corner. On her birthday, she was shipped out to Bandomeer, and the
Argi-Corps for failure to be accepted as a padawan learner...... The moment
she stepped off the ship, she hated it. And yes, I mean hate. A man. A jedi
filled her with hate. He had it out for her from then on. She had been there
a week. One week, and an incident occured. The young woman worked out on the
field tilling seed, harvesting, everything. She worked her ass off for
everything she recieved, but for him... it still wasn’t enough. Cutting
crates open and extracting the seed, the sun was directly over head and she
was already tired. The same jedi Knight approached her, demanding to know
what she was doing. She stated the task she was to perform, and pointed out
her supervisor if he had a problem with that. He got into her face and began
pushing her around. Jedi training told her to not fight back, but she had had
enough. It was going to stop. She pushed back, surprising the Knight Master.
He threw off his robe, and ignited his lightsaber; taunting her. She in turn
switched on the light-knife which she used on the crates and the battle
began. Two bodies circled each other bringing everyone’s attention to them.
The sizzle of electrical energy burned the grasses near by and their heavy
breathing wafted the make-shift arena. She didn’t find out till later that
the man had been trying to knock her out, but that didn’t stop him from
destroying her. His arm wrapped around her neck and he raised the hilt of his
lightsaber to hit her in the temple. His hand jerked and the blade of the
weapon burned itself on her face. The eye heated so much, it boiled and
exploded. The skin of her eyelid fused with the skin of her cheek and she
screamed. No one on Bandomeer could forget that day. The scream of agony,
pain and hatred was heard everywhere. The girl fell to her knees, holding her
face. The Knight leaned over her and made a comment about her being weak, it
was no wonder that she didn’t become a jedi’s padawan. She snapped, and
lurched, kicking the man’s lightsaber from his grip. Catching the ignited
weapon in air, she spun and whirled upward loping the man’s arm off.” Star
paused and her clothes rustled. Smack! A metal object hit the top of the
table. A lightsaber. Qui-Gon’s eyes shifted from it and back to her.
“Scared, she ran, taking the weapon, too. She struck out for the forest, not
sure she would get away. Not sure she would survive. There were security t ransports all over the area. The Corps wanted to be sure that no one came
in and stole the harvest. A vehicle. She entered it and retrieved a officers
uniform. Changing her clothes, she threw her old garments inside. They
wouldn’t believe she was dead if they just found her clothes, so she cut her
hand, dripping blood upon the interior. After grabbing a blaster, she set the
machine in motion, heading up and out of the forest. It exploded. She had
fired upon it before it had gotten out of reach. Most security patrols were
only a mile and a half from each other, so she ran for the next one. Finding
it, she took their transport and went to the refugee transport station. She
didn’t know where she was going to go. But the person she once was, was dead.
She decided to start anew.” Star silenced, and sipped her beer, taking a
heavy breath. Qui-Gon studied her with caring eyes. She came a long way in a
short period of time. Had it really been a short period of time? Qui-Gon
realized he had no idea how old she was. She appeared in her mid-thirties...
but a good amount of women found ways to look younger everyday.
“What happened to you after leaving there?” His voice wrapped her like a
blanket, making her shiver slightly.
“Oh, damn, I hardly remember. I got back to Coruscant, and was living in
the abandoned district, where the arena is now. At the time, there were only
the few kids who did city surfing as a kick. A met up with a group of them
and got involved. I must have been... fifteen or sixteen at the time. A man
by the name of Shnives Blathern discovered me, and before I knew it, I became
the poster girl for the hotest new sport to hit the galaxy. My picture was
slapped up on billboards, on vid-commercials and magazines. Everything. I
worked hard to keep the reputation of best in the galaxy, but my pictures
were soon covered with someone younger and more beautiful. That didn’t bother
me much, I liked the spot light. But I enjoyed being out of it even more. I
met my crew when I was twenty, and we began traveling throughout the universe
competing, trading, stealing and plundering. Me and my illegal ways.” She smi led and leaned her arms on the table top. “It wasn’t until I was
twenty-seven did I start getting in trouble. Because for a while there I got
sloppy and started dabbling in things I shouldn’t have. That’s when I got
caught. I was arrested and I facing life on a Penal planet. It was Ember’s
parents who came and got me out. I told them then I owed them for what they
had done. Ember said it was the life debt that brough her to me. Instead of
her going straight to the jedi. Once I was out of trouble, I didn’t let
myself be taken off guard again. I learned even more how to play the system;
play the game. I’ve been doing it ever since, and will continue to do so
until the day I really do die.”
“Why did the newspapers say you were dead?”
“A little trick done by Loader. I wanted to be out of the spotlight for a
while. If they thought I was dead, and then I appear alive at the exhibtion.
I knew it would cause mistchief.” She grinned, shaking her head.
“Don’t take this impolitely, but I’m curious as to your age? You don’t
appear over forty.”
“I’m forty-two. You experience a lot in a life time. I’ve experienced
more than my share of life times.” Star’s eye met his and held for what felt
like hours until they were interrupted by her comm-unit.
“Boss, are you all right?” Loader’s voice emerged from her wrist.
“Yes, I’m fine. I’ll be back in about fifteen minutes.”
“Aye-Aye,” The comm turned off, and she sighed.
“So did all of that answer your questions?” She inched out of the seat,
standing and stretching.
“Most of them.” Had been the simple reply as both made their way out of
the bar, leaving loud music behind.

----------

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“As you can see, the route we take bypasses all of those linked to the
Trade Federation. That’s how we avoid them...” Star grinned, pointing out a
line drawn on the large map to Qui-Gon. One day turned into the next, and the
group prepared to leave. “We’re careful not to step on any toes around the
Trade; they don’t take kindly to people abusing their system.” Doemoi nodded
in agreement, folding his arms a crossed his chest. Loader pressed a button
on their virtual map, and it changed, showing their route to Alderan for the
upcoming event. The others were occupied in a vid-extreme game, Obi-Wan
included.
“AH! That’s not fair, you’re using Jedi skills for the stupid
vid-game!” Cogi shouted in disgust at the padawan’s high score.
“I am not. I swear. I did last time, but I’m doing it alone this time.”
“I don’t believe you,” Cogi handed his controller to Drev, who grinned
widely before slapping Obi-Wan on the back, knocking the air from him.
“Don’t worry, youngling. Let’s see you try and beat me.”
“All right,” Obi-Wan shrugged and kept his eyes on the vid-screen. Star
smiled. *At least the padawan get’s along with the group,* She thought
wistfully. Her eye scanned the crew, and her brow furrowed suddenly. Everyone
was present but Ember.
“Cogi, where’s Ember?” Her voice lashed calmly, though her demeanor a ppeared ready to crack.
“She said she wanted to get a paper at the vendor on the corner. Said
she’d be back in a few minutes.”
“How long ago was that?”
“Oh, twenty or so, but the corners quite a walk, Boss.” Star stood up
and grabbed her jacket.
“I’m gonna go get her, she shouldn’t be down there alone.”
“I’ll come,” Qui-Gon exclaimed, pushing his chair in.
“You don’t need to, but all right.” She moved to the door, and
disappeared behind the molding, Qui-Gon in tow. She walked hurriedly causing
him to almost jog to keep up.
“Are you worried about her?” He asked.
“No, I just want to find her. I don’t think she’s ever gone out and not
told me first. It makes me nervous.” Rounding the corner, Ember bumped
head-on into Star, stumbling backward.
“Ow. Star! You didn’t have to come down and get me, I was coming back.”
Ember said happily, a bright smile on her face.
“What were you doing here, kid-o?”
“I wanted to get an actual paper. I don’t like the vid-screens. They’re
annoying.” The child’s eyes locked with Star’s, and her expression seemed
saddened. Star peered past the girl and sighed.
“You best be more careful, Ember, you dropped your money purse.” Star
stepped to the bag, and bent down, taking it. Their eyes met again, this
time the girl seemed guilty. The woman’s back straightened, and before she
could react, her arms were enveloped by large hands. “What the hell?!” She
shouted, jerking in the men’s hold. Qui-Gon began to step forward, when one
man put out his hand in command.
“Master Qui-Gon, there’s no need to get involved. We’re here from the
Temple and we’ve come to take Ms. Estrellia back with us.” A laugh split the
air, and all eyes rested on Star, who shook her head, grinning ear-to-ear.
“Clever girl. Bravo! I’m impressed. You caught me.” She twisted under
the confines of the men.
“What’s going on here?” Qui-Gon looked to Ember, who merely stared up at
Star, a frown on her lips.
“The Council will explain everything.”
“Come with us, Dark Star,” The other captor gruffed, pushing the
laughing woman into a transport.
“Master Jinn, please tell Doemoi I’ve been taken to the Temple and will
keep him posted!” She yelled through the vehicle as it sped away, leaving
Qui-Gon in the crowded street with Ember. A tear fell to the ground, and the
girl turned, marching up to the hotel room.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“Sombre Estrellia, do you understand the reason why you have been brought
before the Council?” Mace Windu began, linking his fingers together.
“First of all, don’t call me that. I’m not that person. Second, yes and
no. I don’t understand, because it appears as though the Council has nothing
better to do with its time then to track down a wayward padawan, who was
involved in an incident, which happened almost thirty years ago. I do however
understand that the Council is all about keeping the peace and bringing
peace-breakers to justice. But I do believe it was found that ‘Sombre
Estrellia’ died after the incident.”
“I wished you would have explained this information to the man who’s arm
you took off.” Master Windu’s eyes danced with irritation.
“I wished someone would have explained to him that you don’t push people
around for pleasure nor do you burn out their eye.” She spat, and her muscles
tensed, making the guards beside her shift in anticipation.
“We brought you here for justification, yes. You will pay for the assault
on the Jedi Knight to the tune of six months in-house probation and temple
work. We are treating you as we would treat a padawan since you were once
just that.”
“Six months? There goes the summer season. I’m surprised you remember me
being a padawan. I’ve tried so hard to forget. I’m not going back to the
life I had before, if that’s what’s cooking in those minds of yours. You may
be able to hide your thoughts from me, but Force auras can speak much more.”
“You should be thankful that we don’t give you to the proper
authorities. It’s either that, or in-house probation. Your choice.”
“What of the girl?”
“Ember Tatra was found by one of our jedi, after her parents were killed.
There was indeed a life debt, and her parents had instructed her to find you.
However we got to her first, and made her a deal. She agreed to help us find
you, and return you here for punishment.”
“Clever girl,” Star grinned again, and sighed. “In-house probation.”
“You will be given an hour with one of the members of your crew to set up
any information you need to set up, on one condition. After you leave the
Temple, following your probation, you will be under the payroll of the Jedi.
If we need your services, you will not refuse, understood?”
“Understood,” She growled.
“Take her to her quarters, she’s dismissed.” The guards grabbed her
arms, and they maneuvered to exit. Star’s eye rested on Qui-Gon, who stood in
the back, watching. She smiled, and walked out of the chamber.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“Check mate,” Star said softly, putting her piece down on the playing
board and leaning back with a satisfied smile.
“You’re getting better at this game,” Qui-Gon replied, returning her
smile.
“I’ve been watching closely when you and Obi-Wan play. I’ve picked up a
thing or two.” She stretched in her jedi robes, the old garments had replaced
her usual comfortable clothing. “Gods, five months is gonna be hard, though
this first month went pretty quickly.”
“Do they still have you in the Healer’s ward?”
“Yeah, I’m one of the few people who can stomach cleaning up blood on a
regular basis. I’ve seen enough of it.” She shrugged, lifting her cup off
the table and sipping its contents.
“I heard they were going to put you in the machine shop.” Star chuckled
and nodded, taking another sip.
“Yeah, I walked in there the other day to make sure Corkrin got his
medication, and they were having problems with a hyper drive. I walked over
there nonchalantly, and flicked here, adjusted there, told’em to turn it on.
All of a sudden they had a working hyper drive. Corkrin put in a request to
have me in there five days a week. I agreed. I mean, it gets me out of the
Healer’s ward. Though they want me to stay in there for the other two days of
the week.”
“Sounds like you're acquiring quite a few jobs around the Temple.”
Qui-Gon ran his finger absently on the rim of his cup, his eyes not meeting
her scrutinizing single orb.
“I know what you’re trying to do, Qui-Gon. It’s not going to work. Once
this whole probation thing is over, it’s back to my old life. Back to what I
know, not what I could have become. My chance at a life here was long since
gone, and now I just want to get away for good. However, there are a few
things I will miss. I’ll miss you. Times like these. Actual adult
conversation. I don’t get that with anyone but Doemoi, and there’s only so
much you can talk about. I’ll miss your padawan, even though I know he will
be pleased when I’m gone.”
“I caught him playing the vid-extreme game. Allegedly, Cogi gave it to
him.”
“Good for him, let him release stress by making a character fall off of
cliffs and ride a speeder into large concrete buildings.” They both chuckled,
and an uneasy silence settled between them.
“I’d best be going. I will be by this evening. I’m not going to let you
beat me the next time. Perhaps, I’ll have you play Obi-Wan to show him how
much you’ve improved.”
“Sounds like a plan.” She eased out of her chair, and followed him
toward the door.
“Did she come to see you?” Qui-Gon inquired, searching her eye for the
glimmer of life he enjoyed seeing in her.
“Yes, yesterday, as a matter of fact. She didn’t bring the evil things
she claims as an aunt with her, luckily, made my day easier.” She smiled and
wrapped her arms around Qui-Gon, giving a tight squeeze. Lightly her lips
brushed his cheek and she nodded. “Until this evening, Master Jinn.” He
bowed and descended the long hallway toward the turbo-lift. Dark Star pushed
the panel in the wall, and the door sealed shut.

---------