Archive of Our Own

Obi-wan was scared. He didn't want to admit it; but he was terrified. At fourteen years old he was tired of being told he wasn't fit to be a Jedi. He had spent most of his life trying to be what they wanted him to be. What they told him was right; but after Melida/Daan he had nothing left to give them. He had promised to try and be good. But that was when his mother had left him on the steps of the Jedi temple at four years old sobbing her heart out.
“They found me my darling. And if they find you they will kill you. I don't want to leave you my precious light; but I must. If these monks can protect you I will owe them forever. But if they can't; if you ever find yourself away from their protection you com this number and tell the one to answer that you are Ben Mereel. You are the son of Amara Lars of Stewjon and the Mandalore Jaster Mereel.”
“But why can't we just go to them now?” He had asked crying as his mother ran her fingers through his hair.
“Because you and I are Ka'ra'tigaanur and those chasing us will use you for great evil. Your father doesn't know we were gifted with you. I was too afraid he'd be killed trying to get to us. I'm so sorry my child I know this doesn't make sense. But promise me you know I love you.”
Ben had nodded and become Obi-wan Kenobi.
Child of no one clan of none.
He had held that name close to his heart for ten years; denying who his mother had told him he was.
But today that changed. He could not return to Jinn. To the distrust and disappointment in the man's eyes and if he were honest; the disappointment in himself with the grown man who had left children to be slaughtered just because he didn't like being told no.
So; Ben Mereel needed to keep his promise.
He left the temple at the strike of midnight with his best friend's help. He had told Quinlan the story his mother had told him on the stairs of the Temple and how he needed to contact the number he had been given or face the very real reality he wouldn't be a free person for much longer if he chose to leave the temple as his real name. The downside was that while they made their way to the Mandalorian district of Little Kaldabe on Courascant; Ben had to listen to Quinlan bitching the whole way.
“This is so stupid!” Quinlan all but screamed for the tenth time as they boarded yet another train in the lower district. “You were excepted back into the Order even though you should have never been labeled dissent in the first place. This is all Jinn's fault. The Council needs to stop punishing you for HIS failures. Listen; let's go back and actually try and find you a good Master. Asshole Jinn isn't the only Jedi Master in the entire kriffing order.”
Ben huffed and let his head hit the back of his seat.
“I know that Quin; and you know that; but I've been playing with fire for two years. Buir told me to never leave the safety of the Temple. I have; and it was disastrous every time. Or she said to contact this number.” He held out the little flimsi he had kept hidden his entire life at the temple. “And your own Master has admitted the temple is unsure of me. Jinn has ruined my reputation as a Padawan and now no master will look twice at me.”
“That over grown nerf herder shouldn't be allowed near children. Just because his last Padawan went batshit crazy he's been calling every child he sees dark! Just cause he called you dark is a reason to call you light; not to scorn you!” Quinlan snarled biting back tears again. Ben felt tears of his own burn his eyes and he squeezed Quinlan's hand again to reassure them both.
“I'm doing this for my own safety. Master Tholme is a good Master to you Quin; but if I can't find my father I'm in too much danger to stay associated with the Jedi. But I swear; we'll always be friends. I'll contact you and we'll see each other again. I swear it.” Quinlan nodded looked away to hide his blush.
“I swear it too.” He answered.

They arrived in Little Kaldabe just as the city's morning Chime was sounding Two Am.
Ben stepped off the train looking around in wide eyed awe at all the people in armor that was passing. He remembered his own Buir's armor. Normally Stewjoni didn't go in for that; only being in the Mandalorian Empire and not really in with the warriors themselves. He frowned. At least he didn't think they were. His memories of Stewjon were fuzzy with the mind of a just out of toddler age boy; and Ben was fourteen now; ten years apart in his times of life. So; he can be forgiven for forgetting a lot about his culture. But his mind would always remember his Buir's colors of black, green, and orange.
Justice; Loyalty; and Lust for life.
They had been his nighttime remembrance as he fell asleep; not wanting to forget.
Seeing so much armor seemed to put Quinlan on edge.
For Ben; it felt like coming home.
“Where do we go?”
“To a communication Cafe; they're supposed to have the receiver big enough to reach Manda'Yaim.”
“And that means...”
“It's what Mandalorians call Mandalore. Mother Planet.” Ben answered looking around in awe at the stalls selling food that had his mouth watering at the spices he smelled; and fabrics of bright colors.
“But you weren't born on Mandalore;” Ben shook his head.
“No; Buir said she was in love with a Watchman; but he did something that was right; but got him in really big trouble and he had to leave. He didn't know Buir was pregnant with me when he left.”
“Something right; but got him in trouble. That doesn't make sense.”
“Quin; I was four and my Buir was leaving me on the steps of the temple for my safety. I don't have a lot of memories of that time and she didn't have time to write all it down.” Quinlan winced.
“Fair. And you know she's...” Ben winced before nodding.
“I felt her bond with me break shortly after I turned five.” He whispered. “I never told any of the grownups because I didn't want to be accused of attachment. I told Bant and Garran though and they let me sleep with them for a while to hide that I cried at night.” Quinlan nodded and didn't speak again; only held Ben's hand until they reached the cafe. It was run by man that wore an apron over his armor and didn't bother with a helmet. He eyed the two boys.
“Good morning Ad'ika; what are you doing out this time of night?” Obi-wan took a deep breath and dug in his pockets for all the credits he and his creche mates had scrounged up for this emergency. He held out the handful of credits and blushed.
“Is this enough to use your Communication Receiver to reach Manda'Yaim? Hopefully.” The man looked at him in complete shock; blinking a few time at the small amount of credits in his hand as if he was unsure what to do.
“Um...where is your Buir Ad'ika? Maybe they can...”
“I was left on Courascant as a toddler for my safety. My AmaBuir died...shortly after. She said my other Buir didn't know about me; but if I was ever in danger to call this Com Unit and I'd be safe.” He ended showing the flimsi in his other hand. The man stiffened.
“And you're not safe?” He asked had going to rest on his hip where he kept a blaster hidden under his apron and his eyes looked at his assistant who was silently looking for trouble.
“Well...”
“Okay; let's try this. My name is Jiffar. your Buir left you with someone for your safety?” Ben and Quinlan looked at each other unsure. “I mean you no harm Ad. I only want to help.”
“We're from the Jedi Temple. Will that mean you won't help us?” Jiffar's eyes flickered at the information; but neither child felt the ire in him directed towards them so they kept silent.
“No; no that's not what it means. So you're mother left you with the Jettii to keep you safe; but they're no longer safe; so you're hoping that telling your other Buir you exist will...protect you?”
He ended it on a question and Ben couldn't really blame him.
Both boys nodded and Ben held up the few credits he had.
“Will this be enough?” He asked and Jiffar looked at the shiny metal in his hands and smiled brightly.
“Just enough for my back room little one.” He said happily and held out his hand for them to fallow. The two boys looked at each other warily but fallowed. They had come too far to turn back now.
“So; do you know the name of the man you're contacting?” Ben nodded as he walked down the hall.
“My Buir said my other Buir was a Watchman before something happened. His name is Jaster. Jaster Mereel.” Jiffar seemed to jolt at that and started coughing as he choked on his own spit.
“Could...you...repeat that?” The boys looked at each other curiously and worriedly.
“My other Buir is a Watchman named Jaster Mereel?” Ben said more slowly and Jiffar looked ready to faint.
“I was afraid that was what I heard.” Quinlan quickly put his younger friend behind him glaring for all he was worth.
“Got a problem old man?” He asked with a growl. Jiffar did his best to hide his amusement at the older boy; but his worry won out.
“With being called an old man; YES.” He said firmly. “I'm only 40. I haven't even hit middle age yet.” He sniffed before turning to Ben who was biting his lip to hid his smile. “You wait here; it takes a few minutes to get the signal through. We're good; but Mandalore'yaim is...complicated.” He said and Ben nodded before sitting down at the terminal. Jiffar made sure they weren't going anywhere and quickly went to his own communication room and hit a com. Number. He waited almost tapping his food with impatience. When the call connected he sighed in relief.
“This is Silas.” His cousin answered not even looking at the screen yet typing away on another unit. Jiffar sapped his fingers.
“Silas this is Jiffar on Courascant. I have a problem and it involves Manda'lore Mereel.” That got his cousin's attention and it was focused completely on him.
“What's going on? Is it Death Watch? Kark Jiff don't tell me we have another traitor on our hands. I don't think Jaster has gotten over that Sleemo Montross. It was a pure Fluke that Kal got to the site before he and Visla almost ended him.” Jiffar took a deep breath and shook his head.
“I don't think so. Is Mereel there with you?”
“What do you think. We've been going through everything that belonged to Montross together with Kal for an entire Tenday.” The screen widened and Jaster Mereel with his dark hair and dark complexion became visible.
“What's the problem Jiff?” He asked with a stern but worried face.
“I have an Ad here whose looking to contact a number he says is his father's.” Jaster frowned in confusion.
“Um...okay?”
“He says his father was a watchman named Jaster Mereel.” Jiffar continued making all three men choke in shock almost in unison.
“He...what...I'm not...”
“He's obviously mistaken.” Kal said shaking his head. “Or he was lied to. Or maybe he's a Death Watch...”
“He's too young.” Jiffar said firmly.
“Those hutuun brainwash children at a young age.”
“He says he's a Jettii.” That stalled the argument as three incredulous stares bored into the Cafe owner. He rolled his eyes. “I know how it sounds. That's why I'm contacting you.”
“Do you have a visual?”
“I put them in the guarded room.” He said and hit a few buttons. His screen and Silas' split and on the side was a video of the two Ade.
“Which one is claiming me as his?” Jaster asked leaning in before his eyes widened in shocked horror and he shook his head.
“Kark...it's not...it can't be.”
“You know one of them?” Kal asked leaning in. Jaster shook his head but he looked unsure.
“I...no of course not...it's just...the smaller boy. I would swear on my armor that he's...he looks just like Amara.”
“Put the sound on.” Kal demanded his eyes going cold. He would never let the memory of their lost lover be used against them. Ever.
“So; how long does this thing take?” The older boy asked poking at a useless button. The younger one sighed and rubbed his eyes. It was way too late for such a young Ad to be out of bed.
“I don't know.” The older boy looked at him sharply.
“Obes?” He asked but the shorter boy shook his head.
“I'm okay...I've been having...”
“Nightmares? Or Visions?”
“Dreams. Just dreams. Master Jinn...”
“Is an idiot who shouldn't be allowed near kids; let alone one as amazing as you. Now; what did you see?”
“Not here Quin...”
“Not here; not at the temple; and now you're saying it unsafe for you to stay. Something is going on!”
“shh.” The boy sighed and leaned back in his chair more looking exhausted. “I kept seeing...a battle. A man in armor. It's metallic gray with red shoulder plates and red visor on his helmet. He has a yellow diamond on his breast plate and a...monster's skull on his shoulders. He's looking for someone. Someone precious to him; and a man he feels close to...shoots him. Betrays him...but it's all I see.”
“Holy Kark.” Silas whispers his mouth hanging open. “He's a seer. A Karking seer.” He looks at his Manda'lore in awe; but neither of his companions are looking at him.
“You think it's important?”
“I don't know. The vision stopped around a Tenday ago; I remember screaming HELP HIM and someone...” He waves his hands unable to articulate what he wants to say.
“Nudged. I was nudged to the west when our intel said you were going South.” Kal said as his knees gave out on him and leaned heavily against the desk. Jaster looked at him then back at the boy.
“Just like Amara.” He whispered. “But she would have...why didn't I know...”
“So...you think your vision is connected with your dad?”
“Buir.” The little one corrected.
“But I thought you called your mom that.” The little one shook his head.
“It's actually a gender neutral title for Parent. If she was alive and with my other Parent I might have called her Amabuir. And...well...if he claims me I'd call my father something like Jasbuir. Or something like that.”
“If he claims you?”
“I told you Quin I don't have a lot of answers. I was four. And I'm not sure if the visions were even real. I did just escape from a world where grownups were slaughtering their children where I was part of an insurgent group comprised of entirely little kids with a few teens thrown in. my mind is kriffed.” 'Quin' grunted and rubbed at his braided head. The adults listening all seemed to loose their shit at the same time. What they were hearing was appalling and Jaster was two seconds from snatching this kid up whether or not he was his son by blood.
“So we're surrounded by Mandalorians at two in the karking morning with the only information that your dad is a watchman and has no clue you exist.”
“I have information.” The younger boy says almost petulantly. “It's just sketchy. You know Master
Jinn doesn't allow...”
“Anything.” Was muttered.
“Cultural exploration to people he deems dangerous.”
“Obi...Ben; you won't even admit you're real name or that you're a completely different species than is on your file. You know what; forget Jinn; you weren't very safe with any of the Jedi Masters in charge of your supposed care.” Ben rolled his eyes.
“Quinlan Vos; you know very well that if ANYONE besides you, Bant, Garren and Reeft knew I was Stewjoni AND Force Sensitive I'd attract every slaver from here to Wild Space.”
“Great Ancestors.” Kal looked sick; Jaster felt sick. He covered his mouth as he kept the bile from rising through sheer willpower alone.
“Amara. He's Amara's. He has to be.” He whispered grief and pain and a dangerous hope filling his chest like air and duracreat at the same time.
“And how do we know this Jaster of yours is safe? What's he do since he apparently did the right thing but got in really big trouble?” Quinlan asked sarcastically. Silas felt his lips twitch. He wondered if this kid needed a Buir as well. He definitely had Mandakarla.
“He's a scholar. I snuck into the Archives when I was eight when Master Nu had the Rashi Pox to see if I could find anything on him. I was curious; even though I still thought I could be a Jedi. I found this.” He pulled out a data pad and handed it over to a frowning Quinlan.
“The Supercommando Codex; by Jaster Mereel.” He read slowly and scanned the index his eyes widening. “This thing is huge. Have you really read this stuff?” He asked shocked making Ben puff up in pride as he nodded.
“It took me awhile; but yep. All of it. It's so fascinating. It speaks of the times of conquest the Old Mandalorians used to live by; but then it delves into the remaking of the Resol'nare and...” Hands were quickly moved to cover Ben's mouth but there was a few seconds of humming heard as he continued to speak.
“So; super nerdy just like you. Got it.”
“He's yours.” Kal said with such a deadpan expression it was almost a complete void. “The proof has just been submitted. Only you and Amara could go on a tangent like that.” Jaster made a strangled sound in the back of his throat.
“I can't believe this. Why didn't she tell me.” The information hurt.
“So...do I patch you in?” Jiffar asked speaking for the first time since the vid split to show the kids.
“Um...yes...no...wait...yes...I...” Jaster was flailing as he ran his fingers through his hair and bit his lip. He took a deep breath and let it out a few times. “Patch me through; but no one say anything about my status. I want to see his reaction.” All three men nodded and Silas ducked out of the screen while Kal moved just out of view. This did involve him to some degree.

Ben jolted when the screen before him lit up and he stared into the face of a man he had only ever been able to imagine before. He was tall; his face careworn but a kindness seemed to shine through his dark eyes and his nose was slightly crooked in way that told Ben he had been in one too many fist fights. His dark hair was starting to fleck with gray; but to Ben...
“It's you.” he whispered in awe tears welling up in his eyes. Normally he would have much better control of himself; but he was tired and scared and before him was a man he had always wanted to meet at least once.
“Hello Ad. My name is Jaster Mereel. You know this Com. Code?” He asked carefully and Ben blinked a few times. The words were kind but firm and it brought Ben back to himself. He bowed his head politely before straightening up.
“Hello Ser Mereel. You don't know me...but um My name is Ben...my Buir was Amara Lars and she told me you were my other Buir.” Jaster let himself pale at hearing it confirmed that this was Amara's son. Her child...his child. He felt Kal stiffen beside him and he leaned over and put his hand on his riduur's knee.
“I do know that name child. I...I didn't know...”
“I know. Buir said you did something very brave and that it was right; but it would have been too dangerous for you to come to us. She cried when she told me of you.” Ben looked down missing the grief and pain cross Jaster's features. Quinlan didn't.
“Why are you contacting me now? Why after all this time?”
“I...well...” Ben took a deep breath. “AmaBuri said that the bad people had found her and she took me to the Jedi Temple and made me take the name Obi-wan Kenobi...”
“Amara would never disown her child...” Jaster started; but Ben quickly shook his head.
“No; no; she said...she said if the ones chasing her ever found me they would use me; use my connection to he Force to do bad things. She said it was the only way to ensure I'd be safe.”
“Hiding in plane sight where none would ever suspect anyone of Mandalorian heritage to trust a child with.” Jaster said frowning in thought as he ran through this logic. It was ingenious. Everyone knew the long bad history Jedi and Mandalorians have and that neither would trust the other with something as precious as a child. Stewjoni were even worse. They trusted outsiders less that a Hutt trusted a bounty hunter offering free service. It didn't happen.
Ben nodded.
“Yes sir. She said...if I ever left the Jedi I should call this number and tell you I exist.”
“You are not of the Jedi anymore? Are you safe?” Jaster demanded.
“Well. That part is... convoluted if I'm honest...”
“NO; it's NOT! Obes was sent away to the AgriCorps; to be farmer because everyone had their head up their asses when he was turning thirteen. Then he got enslaved for six months and only the will of the FORCE saved him from being recognized as Stewjoni; then a Bantha's ass called Jinn rescued him and took him as a Padawan. A learner.”
He said when Jaster looked confused through his mounting horror.
“But as stated he's a Bantha's ASS. They went a war torn planet to rescue another Master; Master Tahl. There they found it was full of psychos that had been fighting for literally centuries and a their own children tried to stop it. They said no and started killing the kids. OBES here did the right thing and wanted to help them. Bantha Ass Jinn said no and LEFT HIM THERE. THEN when HE got in trouble went back after OBES did all the work with the kids and won peace; he GUILT TRIPPED HIM! To come back to the order. Well; now Obes is back; but JINN is ignoring him...”
Humming and huffing could be heard as Ben covered Quinlan's mouth with a look of horrified awe that; one: horror as his best friend just spouted out his life story to what was still a stranger; biological father or not;
and two: he had said it all in one breath? HOW?!
“Seriously? Just...word vomit my entire life story?” He asked; but Quinlan was completely unrepentant. He shrugged.
“If I had waited for you to tell him we'd still be here on LIFE DAY.”
“I'm sorry; enslaved...abandoned...Dar'Buir...killing Ad...what the karking kriff...” Jaster devolved from there into a litany of curses and threats to the whole of the Jedi order making Quinlan look on in awed hero worship while Ben looked horrified.
“I like you.” Quinlan said with a wide manic smile. Ben groaned and covered his face with his hands.
“WHY didn't I bring Bant? Bant never would have done this to me.” Quinlan side eyed him.
“You do know Bant is contemplating stealing a major laxative pill and grinding it up in Jinn's food...right?”
“You will not be staying with that Demigolka another minute!” The man beside Jaster snarled and actually got up and went over to punch a wall. Ben and Quinlan looked at each other shocked.
“Um...” Ben asked and Jaster took a level controlled breath of his own.
“That would be your third Buir.” The two youngling stared in shock.
“Huh?” They said at the same time.
“Amara, Kal, and I were in a closed Triad.” Ben looked at Quinlan who shrugged.
“Don't look at me. I'm sixteen and Master Tholme thought it was a great idea to give me the sex talk by letting Madam Nu give it.” Ben blinked at his best friend a few times.
“But she's a million years old. Does she even remember what sex is?” The kid said making Jaster cough to cover up his snort. He had a feeling his Ad would be in real physical danger if this Jedi ever caught wind of that sentence.
“I was just glad it wasn't Master Yoda. At least Madam Nu was born in this century.” Quinlan answered and both kids look at the Manda'lore in curiosity.
“So; what's a closed triad?” Quinlan asked wanting to know more about the world of grownups.
“Sorry to disappoint kid; but all it means is that the three of us dated each other and only each other.” Kal said not bothering to hide the amount of amusement that was pouring out of him. Ben blinked in confusion.
“Then...how did Amabuir know which one of you was my other...or well; my father? Or... I'm confused.” Jaster smiled kindly at Ben and shook his head.
“Well; I guess process of elimination. Before we were all...separated I was staying with Amara while Kal was on a long six month Bounty Mission in Corellia. The Bounty was too good to pass up.”
“We were going to use it move to Manda'yaim; together.” Kal said sadly.
“But what...what happened?”
“I found out my best friend in the Watchmen; a superior as well; was...was causing deaths to his men he thought were...weak. I defied him; he tried to kill me and I ended up killing him instead. But because I had no physical evidence I was found guilty of treason and banished from the Watchmen. I had to run or risk being put in jail. I wanted Amara to come with me; but her father had just died and her little brother wasn't quite an adult yet. We couldn't drag him across the galaxy while I found proof of what had happened.”
“When he contacted me I of course helped him; and the first thing we did when it was all over was go to Stewjon to find Amara but...”
“She was gone.” Ben finished sadly. “I...I'm sorry but I don't know who...or what happened. I just know...her bond with me broke when I was five.” There was silence as the two remaining Riduur let their grief pass through them.
“She is not gone.” Jaster said in pain.
“Merely marching far away.” Kal finished the recitation.
Ben looked down and closed his eyes mouthing the words he had just heard.
Before anyone could say anything a loud BOOOM sounded and the entire structure they were in shook from the force of it. Quinlan caught Ben in his arms as they looked at each other and the vid feed fizzled out for a moment.
“What was that?” Jaster demanded standing up and leaning over the holo feed as if that would magically transport him across the galaxy to the son he had never known he had. Quinlan looked at Ben who looked back and they both ran out of the room ignoring the yells they were leaving behind.

Outside was Chaos.
Fire and debris and bodies laying everywhere.
Ben looked on in horror as flashback shot through his mind and he flinched horribly at the hand on his shoulder.
“What's going on?” Quinlan demanded of a person running beside him.
“Death Watch. They're attacking our Foundling Home. Going after our children.” They said and ran off. Ben felt his eyes narrow in anger. He looked at his friend who looked equally as angry. They both nodded; took out their lightsabers and dove into the fray.
Thankfully it was rather easy to tell who the enemy were.
They all wore matching paint jobs on their armor; so Ben jumped onto a pile of rubble to use his Lightsaber to redirect blaster fire away from the ones shielding the children. They looked at him in shocked horror at first; but he turned to the grownups and bowed his head still blocking blaster fire.
“I'm here to help. The children will be protected. I promise.” He vowed and returned to the fight.
Quinlan was running through the crowd using his own saber to take out enemy after enemy; a few of the local Mandalorians seeing his aid and quickly backed him up.
“Why?” he asked a person in regular armor.
“Death Watch. Demigolka; traitors to our Creed. They orphan and kidnap children to brainwash into their cult.” Ben heard this from where he was stationed and snarled.
“NO!” He shouted. “Not again. I'll not watch young die again!” He snarled and reached out then pulled with the Force causing the men firing at him to all fall flat on their faces. Seconds later the wall they were hiding against was crumbling on top of them. He nodded in satisfaction before pivoting to his left and used the Force to drag a blaster to his hand; and from there started firing as well as blocking.
“There's too many!” Quinlan shouted from his place guarding a group of five to six years old being lead to an alley by what must be their clan head.
“We need to get the kids out!” Ben shouted.
“We can't; they're coming from everywhere!” Another Mandalorian shouted as they too fired on the Death Watch. Suddenly a BOOM was sounded and a missile was coming straight for the Foundling home. Children screaming and crying in fear hit Ben with more force and pain than any blaster could have ever achieved. He dropped both his saber and the blaster and held up both hands in a stopping motion and the missile paused in mid air; the propulsion fire still burning from the back.
It hurt. The thrust, and speed it had been going, wasn't slowed down by Ben Force Holding it; it had been translated into pure energy that was hitting Ben harshly. He stumbled and fell to his knees pushing against the weapon aiming for the children with all of his strength. He cried out; pain and desperation and effort leaking out of him on a note of agony.
“OBES!” Quinlan shouted wanting to rush to his side; but unable to abandon the small charges he was protecting. Ben sobbed as the missile started to break free from his control and he felt hot slick blood leak from his nose as the effort was proving too great. Jedi could easily redirect things with the Force; but Ben was still recovering from malnutrition and injuries he had sustained on Melida/Daan. He wasn't strong enough to hold it.
“Force...please...” He ground out and suddenly the effort was gone. He grunted in pain as he fell forward his hands catching his fall on the rough and sharp rubble he was on top of. He looked up in terror; only to see the Missile still floating there; unmoving. Before suddenly it slowly shifted to the left and the fire sputtered out with a few puffing sounds. Ben blinked in confusion before he looked to the right and there; his hands outstretched and his face severe in concentration; was Jedi Master Mace Windu.
The Missile was gently laid on the ground and sabers ignited as one and Temple Guards and Knights jumped from rooftops and out of alleys ready and willing to fight. They launched into battle picking a Mandalorian to ask who the bad guys were then acting as backup and guard. Ben could only stare awe and wonder as his breathing came out in pained heavy huffs.
“Padawan!” Tholme shouted as he rushed to Quinlan's side guiding him and the children he was protecting to a safer place. Ben watched in detachment at the relief and worry etched on the Master's face as he checked over his Padawan. Before he could register the slight pang of wistfulness he felt at the sight hands were grabbing his shoulders and he was turned to face the gold and white mask of a Temple Guard. He blinked.
“Padawan Kenobi. Can you hear me? Are you okay?” The being asked; but Ben could only blink in a dazed sort of way.
“The Young. Have to protect the Young...the Elders...killing them all...” A hand cupped his cheek and soothing shushes were heard.
“It's okay Padawan Kenobi. It's all okay. The children are safe. The Elders are gone. You did it. You protected them.” Ben let out a huff of relief and felt his body tilt sideways as he collapsed. Strong arms gathered him into an armored chest and he sighed.
“AmaBuir had armor...pretty armor.” He said as the world started spinning around him. His finger clumsily stroking the white armor beneath him. “Had ta tell Buir I existed. Couldn't...couldn't get kicked out without telling him...Stewjon...Jedi...danger and...and Jinn's not safe....and...”
“Shh...” The voice soothed and gloved hands carted through his hair and making him sigh sleepily.
“You're safe Padawan. I've got you. I'll protect you.” Came the promise and Ben smiled sleepily as the the waking world drifted away on a slow gentle slide.

Feemor was not a volatile person. His closest friends called him laid back. Even those that didn't particularly like him thought him a very calm person. That is to say he was the very last Jedi ever to resort to violence unless no other option presented itself. When a Creche Clan Master rushed to the council at one in the morning screaming about her younglings helping a neglected Padawan to sneak out of the temple in a last ditch effort to contact family he was upset. When he fount out the missing Padawan was his own Lineage Brother; no matter what that waist of space Jinn said about Repudiation he was even a little angry. When said waist of space was contacted and didn't even care his supposed Padawan was missing because 'he's still on probation and I haven't decided if he's worthy of being my Padawan again'. Was his answer.
…
..
.
Feemor punched Qui-gon Jinn so hard they all heard the crack of cartilage snapping and a river of crimson flowed from Jinn's nose. Feemor then proceeded to ignore him and turned to the shocked waiting council.
“I call Challenge on Master Jinn's privilege to his right of a Padawan. He is a danger to Kenobi and does not deserve his apprenticeship.” Mace glared at the man that had once been his friend and nodded to the Knight before him.
“I accept your Challenge and add my own. But for now we have more pressing matters. Two Padawans are missing from this temple and are in potential danger.”
That had been all it took for the Temple to go up in arms.
Knights, Masters, and Guards teamed up in groups and searched everywhere they could think of for a missing Padawan to go. Feemor had played it smart and went to Obi-wan's friends. They were reluctant at first; but when explained to 'that the middle of the night was the worst time for a child to sneak out into a place like Courascant'... The little Mon Calamari stepped up looking shame faced and so, so worried.
“Ben doesn't feel safe in the temple anymore.” She said quietly making Mace and Feemor look at each other in worry.
“I am sorry I attributed to that Initiate Erin.” Mace said gravely. “I have been looking into Padawan Kenobi's situation; but I should have let him know he was not alone. What do you mean by Ben?” Bant bit her lip; and another initiate stepped up.
“Obi-wan isn't his real name. Ben's...” He took a deep breath guilt radiating from him. “He's Stewjoni and his mom left him here cause someone was hunting her family...and; and he had to give up his name and promise to never tell anyone what he really was... she said if he couldn't stay with us to tell his dad he existed. Apparently he didn't know he had a kid...and he's a Mandalorian...”
“WHAT!?” Feemor asked in total shock.
That was a lot to unpack.
First of all; Stewjoni may look human; but they weren't. They needed a special diet full of iron and protein rich foods and needed much more nutrients than a full human. It was no wonder the kid was so small. His body must be in malnutrition mode. Not to mention Stewjon was the Galaxy's biggest cluster of Cosmic Force Users and it was a very very known fact that Cosmic Force Members needed a strong Bond Base.
While it was considered a controversial problem since Jedi didn't do attachment; for those with a strong enough bond with the Cosmic Force they NEEDED bonds or they ran the risk of losing their sense of self to the Force. It spoke to them in a different way. Guided them on currents that could reach far into the Force. Kark; Cosmic Force users weren't even allowed to Meditate on their own or they risked the chance of becoming lost.
“Who in their Demented mind allowed a Cosmic Force child to be paired with the most unreliable Jedi in the order who pretends only the Living Force is real?” Everyone turned as one to a silent Yoda who was watching all of this with drooping ears and sadness radiating off of him.
“Meant to help I did.” He said sadly. “Knew Ben's mother I did. Asked me to hide him she did. Thought teaching one so BRIGHT...help my Grandpadawan it would. Hide in plane sight...” He let himself sit on the floor as a tear fell down his face.
“Master Yoda...” Feemor started and sighed. He knew what Yoda was thinking about.
About a hundred years ago there had been a Massacre on a small moon of Cosmic Force users who had lived communally together away from others. They were known as the Mystics. Not a Cult; not an Order per-se. Just...connected to each other. It was said if one had a gift for the Clan they would tell you your future. Feemor didn't know the full story; but he had read in history class how one night the Temple had gotten a call for aid from the Mystics and when they got there; every man woman and child that was there was dead. Murdered; and the only clue they had were lightsaber burns.
Master Dralige kept the case as open to this very day.
Feemor gasped.
“Obi-wan...Ben is a descendant of the Mystic Massacre.” He said in realization. “Someone must have survived that night.” Yoda nodded.
“Many there were not. A small; terribly small; few managed to escape. Hidden they were. Never to reveal themselves. Amara Lars was a child of one of the Mystics to survive. Come to me her mother did. Train her I did; to hide. Not become a Jedi; too dangerous; but know how to use her gifts and hide from those who were dangerous.”
“And when Ben showed up on our steps you hid HIM as well.” Mace said with understanding and sadness. “Why Master; did you not trust the council with his information? Did you not trust us?” Yoda shook his head slowly.
“Swore an Oath I did. Cosmic Force to that extent...rare; it is outside Stewjoni protected space.”
“And dangerous.” Yan Dooku said from his spot in the corner of the room. “Syfo; my oldest friend; has been on the disabled list for decades because he went to deep into the Force without an Anchor.” Yoda nodded.
“Feared I did...a target young Ben would be if found out. Hid him; betrayed his culture I did...but alive he was; safe he was; loved by his friends...”
“Then why Jinn?”
“Connection in the Force I saw.”
“Master that does not mean compatibility.” Feemor said with kindness. Yoda nodded.
“Such a kind soul Qui-gon has always been. Felt I did; that such a light child...bring back belief in the good he would. Bring back the goodness of my Grandpadawan.”
“That was a mistake. A child is not a support item.” Plo Koon said shaking his head.
“Mistake I have made. Sorry I am...only wanted to protect I did.”
“It's not all right Master.” Feemor said. “But you can help repent. We need to find him.” Yoda looked at the Temple Guard he would always consider one of his Great Grandpadawans. He nodded.
“Right you are. Alert all of the Temple. If Retrieve we must from Mandalorians; then retrieve we will.”

And that was how Feemor had ended up in the waiting room of the Halls of Healing listening to a group of initiates and a Padawan recount their story. How they had hidden their friend's true identity for years. How Reeft would use his obvious need for a lot of food to sneak Ben iron rich foods more than he was allowed as a baseline human. How Bant would never allow Ben to Meditate on his own. Even when he was assigned Meditation as a punishment for a fight with Bruck or some such; (And their Creche master looked Apoplectic at having missed blatant bullying for so long. He almost felt sorry for Bruck Chun...almost) Bant would sneak into his rooms and meditate with him.
How Quinlan would use his psychometry when Ben started to drift into the Force to keep him in the hear and now. The connection allowing him to see the vision in a peripheral sense. How he had snuck into the halls of healing one night and actually stole immunization injectors for diseases Ben would be more susceptible to as a Stewjon native. There was a reason the Planet itself was so isolated from the rest of the Galaxy. It was very susceptible of the other Planet's illnesses.
Which explains Ben's medical record showing that he got sick every time someone so much as sneezed in his direction for the first year of his being inside the temple.
“How did you even know where to FIND such injectors. And how did you get them without me noticing?” Vokara Che asked anger flaring in her eyes; but Quinlan was unrepentant and crossed his arms.
“Obes couldn't count on the grownups to keep him safe; so WE did it. He was OUR Creche mate.” Vokara looked as apoplectic as the Creche Master had. At the commiserating looks they shared; at least one bottle of some very potent alcohol would be shared between the two or Feemor was going to eat his own Kyber Crystal. Tholme looked at his Padawan and sighed acting like this was a very unfortunately normal Tungsday.
Mace could relate. Depa had given him some grief as well. Luckily not to this extent.
“Quinlan; you need to tell us WHO you contacted. Who is coming for Ben?”
“His dad...” His face scrunched. “Or; Ben called him his Buir. Apparently it means both mother and father in his language. His dad though.” Mace swallowed as he looked at Feemor; both uneasy about this.
“Did he give a name?” Feemor tried and Mace was glad someone who was good with children was there. He didn't have a good reputation with children not his padawans. He wasn't sure why but Depa said it was his resting bitch face that was to blame.
'it hides how soft you really are Master' she had joked.
“He's a scholar. His names is Jaster. Jaster Mereel.” Plo straightened far too quickly and harshly to be good on his joints.
“Did you say Mereel? Manda'lore Jaster Mereel.”
“Yeah; he a Mandalorian. I just said that.”
“No Padawan. Not Mandalore; Manda'lore. It's a title. Jaster Mereel is the Manda'lore of the Mandalorian people.”
“I wasn't aware that those barbarians HAD a ruler.” Dooku said with a raised eyebrow and a certain amount of disdain in his voice. Plo sighed and rubbed his temples in a way that Mace recognized as one who was intimately familiar with headaches.
“I have tried to tell the Council for years that we are too ignorant of anything outside the Republic's reach. And Master Dooku; as one who has screamed about the Order being too beholden to the Senate I am disappointed that you allowed hearsay and legends to be your only judgment of an entire race.”
Dooku stilled before nodding his head in chastisement.
“Mandalore has been split into three factions for over a decade. The New Mandalorians are a community of purely pacifistic religion. They deny any claim to Mandalorian culture; not it's past; it's language; it's stories; or it's armor. They have denied any to even protect themselves if it needs violence to do so.”
“That does not sound very...efficient to staying alive.” Tholme said. Plo shook his head.
“They are...too zeolite about proclaiming themselves 'Pacifistic'. On the complete Opposite side of the tract; we have those known as Death Watch. They believe they should return to the earliest Ancestors of their culture. Conquerors. Destroyers of any not like themselves. They have been reported by all the Outer Rim Protectors as dangerous and deadly and a warning that to engage is at one's own risk.”
“And Mereel is the leader of...” Quinlan asked going so pale he was almost translucent.
“The third faction Padawan. Do not worry. The Ha'aat Mando'ade; as they call themselves or the True Mandalorians in basic are believers in the Resol'nare. They believe that they should honor their history. Where they came from. But should also use that history as a way to not make the same mistakes. To learn from the past and improve the future.”
“That doesn't sounds so bad?” Bant asked hopefully. Again Plo shook his head.
“No. Jaster Mereel is quickly gaining the support and allegiance of the people of Mandalore and it's surrounding Planets that do not wish to be apart of the the other two factions. His popularity is growing at an exponential rate.”
“And...he's Ben's...dad?!” Garran asked in shock. “Our best friend is a Prince!?” All the younglings stared at each other in shock while the grownupds looked on in amusement. They were all very smart for their ages; but they were still almost teenage children. At that moment the healer that had been looking at Ben walked out looking exhausted.
“Well?” Vokara asked sternly in her worry. The Healer; used to such things; sighed in relief.
“He's okay Master. But that trick he did with the missile before Master Windu saved him has given him an extreme case of Force Exhaustion. His mind couldn't handle the strain and honestly his heart is working too hard to supply the oxygen his body needs from his blood. His iron deficiency is in dangerous levels with other key nutrients his body needs...”
“But I've been making him chew on the Blood Pops I bought while on Nar Shaada on the last Mission I Piloted with my master.” Garran said worriedly chewing on his fingernail. His master put his hand on his shoulder in comfort.
“Yes; but his stint on Melida/Daan has hurt his body very badly. Master; if he doesn't let his body recover he could end up doing sever irreparable damage to his body before he's even into his late teenage years; let alone adulthood.” The healer said gravely.
Silence met that statement.
“So we have a Padawan to monitor and a potential Galactic Incident to rectify.” Mace said in a tired voice.
“If you hadn't forced him to go back with Jinn none of this would have happened.” Quinlan said with a glare. Tholme started to correct him but Mace held up his hand for him to wait.
“You are right Padawan Vos. This is our mistake. He have made...many mistakes when it come to young Ben. We should have never listened to Qui-gon's report about him leaving the order over a girl.” Garran snorted so hard his head jerked at that. He quickly moved to cover his mouth; but it was too late.
“Something Funny Padawan?” one of the other Council members asked a slight note of arrogance in his voice. The young initiate just looked the Council Member straight in the eyes and folded his arms like he had seen some of the other Masters do when met with a stupid question.
“YES actually. Ben is not about to do anything for a GIRL.” He said with a sneer. “He's too busy looking at Quinlan's butt.”
“HEY.” Quinlan snarled and slapped Garran upside the head.
Bant all but slapped her forehead with her hand and rolled her eyes.
“So not the time you two. We have bigger problems. Ben is HURT. Not to mention Quinlan told his dad all he's been through and we're just now finding out he's a PLANITARY LEADER!?” Both boy's straightened and nodded at the same time.
“Right; I probably panicked...” Quinlan said rubbing his neck sheepishly. “But in my defense; I didn't know blowing the whistle on ass hat Jinn would cause an intergalactic incident.”
“The blame for that is not on you Padawan.” Mace said shaking his head. “As stated we have failed Ken..BEN...kark it's strange calling him an entirely different name than is on his file. Padawan LARS...or Mereel...” Mace sighed. “Jocasta; would you be a dear and go through all the initiate files and make sure we don't miss something like this again?” The head Archivist nodded and Mace turned back to the council members.
“Meet with Manda'lore Mereel I will. Atone for my actions I will.” Yoda said firmly yet still sadly. “Concentration on young Ben you will Healer Che. Stubborn he is; but not unreasonable.” The Twi'lek nodded and went to speak with the other healer in another room.
“Support he still needs. Friends he needs. Continue to count on you may I?” Yoda asked the other teenagers who all nodded firmly. Mace sighed and took a deep breath and let it out slowly.
“Then we have a plan. I just hope it's a good enough one to stop a war with the Mandalorians...again.”

Jaster Mereel was on the war Path. He stalked around his quarters angrily as he explained to Jango why they were ignoring the newest Bounty job they had gotten (Arla was not happy to be forced into the lead position; but at her Buir's distress she quickly promised to do her best) and was instead; going to Courascant to scream at the Jetii.
Jango was pale by the end of the explanation.
“That's... a lot to unpack Buir.” He said honestly leaning against his Buir's bed's wall in thought. Jaster looked at his eldest son and took a deep steady breath massaging his temples.
“I'm sorry Jen'ika. I shouldn't have dumped that all on you.”
“Sounds like it got dumped on you first. And this kid; yours or not; really needs help. Myles is looking up Melida/Daan right now with Mij and setting up a Crew to go check them out. I doubt any survivors; if it's as bad as that Ad was saying; is going to know how to live AFTER a war. And I sure as HELL won't allow any Dar'buir near an ad after all of that.” Jaster nodded his agreement as Kal walking in a data pad almost stuck to his nose.
“Anything?” Jaster asked and Kal nodded.
“Yes. Silas hacked Ner Ad's files from the Temple without getting caught. Arrived at four years old; as stated. The one they call Creche Master; who seems to be a Communal Buir for the really little ones; noted their worry about the visions and subsequent insomnia from the nightmares they caused. Lots of reported being let out of classes to take naps...they were also really worried about not being able put any actual meat on the kid. Not shocking if he was hiding a key part of his biology.” Jaster nodded his understanding.
“I'm shocked a four year old COULD hide something like that. I know I wasn't very good at keeping secrets at that age.” Jango said with a snort.
“Probably Amara had taught him from the time he could speak to never tell what he was. She was always...paranoid about telling others she was half Stewjoni...'
“Half? What's the other half?” Jango asked confused.
“Stewjoni adjacent...but apparently her Ba'buire were both a part of some commune or something and that's where both she and Ben got their connections to stars.” Jango blinked a few times before nodding and both turned back to Kal who went back to his datapad.
“Kid's got a smart mind. Top marks in his subjects...but his teachers leave very heavy scolding remarks about behavior...but then they turn around and speak about how hard it is to get the kid to talk...”
Kal and Jaster frowned as Jango winced.
“Ah; I'll put good credits there's a bully involved.” He said nodding making his Buire look at him startled.
“What makes you say that?” Jaster asked worried. Had he missed a bully problem for his Ad? Jango snorted and waved his hand at the over protective man.
“Calm down Buir. I was a scrawny thing when I was really little and the son of farmers. They wanted me to go to a good school and spent more on my books than my clothes; so a few of the entitled Shebure tried to dominate me. But of course; poor little rich kids could never cause such trouble; so I was labeled the trouble maker.” Jaster frowned.
“But...if they're raised together...”
“Bully's exist everywhere Buir. It's an unfortunate fact of life and if this kid was hiding so much from the grownups; taking the punishments to get the attention off of him probably didn't sound so bad.” Kal looked back at his pad and nodded.
“It would give an explanation on the 'clumsy accidents' he was reported to the Healers to have. But he always said he fell or tripped and with how small he was I doubt they had any reason to look deeper into the situation. Sickly kids are always expected to be in the medic's care a lot. It unfortunately causes a blinder for other things if they pop up.” Kal admitted. “So...from what I'm seeing...the Jetii took care of Ben...with the information they had...”
“Then what changed?”
“He reached thirteen. It says here a rumor started that the boy was always angry and starting fights...that bully again I wager. Sooner or later everyone gets tired of being the punching bag and starts punching back. Even the damn Evaar'ade.” Jaster nodded.
“So; most of the Jetii gave him a wide birth; I want to hate them for that; but I can understand it. I was labeled a traitor on Concordia because I killed my commander...and no one suspected him to be...such a Dar'manda. Everyone believed what they thought was the truth. What they thought they knew.”
Kal sent his Riduur a sympathetic smile.
“And he was easy pickings for the Dar'buir that took him on after the disaster on Bandameer. I'll be having words with whoever is in charge of Mission reports. If anyone of our men sent in such a pathetic excuse for a report I'd be dragging him over coals to get to the bottom of what he was trying to omit. The report and the Healer's notes don't match. The kid should have been put in the care of a medic for at least a few rotations...”
“He wasn't?” Jaster asked with a frown.
“No; he was out on another mission before he could even repack a bag. Another red flag. Someone was giving this JINN a lot of leeway. I don't like it.”
“We'll get to the bottom of it all. But from what I'm hearing; we don't need to raze the entire temple down and pull off a mass Ade rescue. Even the best Foundling Homes out there miss some things like bullies and if they're not working with all the information they can't help if they miss some things medically.”
“That's a relief. We're already courting problems with the Republic's Leaders plowing into the heart of their Capital.” Kal said as he finally sat beside Jango on the bed running his fingers through the young man's curls. “Before we do anything drastic Jaster; you need to demand a Paternity Test to establish your rights as the child's father.” Jaster nodded as he thought that over.
“Kal; as the Rid'alore could you set up the paperwork? I don't want to be accused of kidnapping my own Ad; and send a squad to check on Jiffar and the Foundling home the Jetii helped save.” Jango snorted.
“Kark that's not a sentence I thought I'd ever hear. Jetii saving Mandalorians. This is stuff out of Holo Dramas. Long lost Ade that belong to enemy combatants looking to reunite with their Buir who happens to be the Manda'lore himself. I could make a killing writing this report as a script.”
“You'll be grounded till I become a Ba'buir.” Jaster said in a deadpan voice making Jango start cackling.
“I'll name him Boba and we'll go off and Conquer and rule Tatooine together.” He crowed making his Buire roll their eyes fondly at their Ad. Hopefully their new one will fit in in as well.
Taking the Fast Lanes in the Hyperspace Travel lanes Jaster was able to arrive above Courascant in under seven days travel. His heart was in his throat and half of him wanted to just go down there and snatch his child up from these Monks. But he knew he couldn't. Still as looks at the Holo of the bald dark man he forces his breathing to even out and stands tall.
“Jedi Alor?” he asks and the man tilts his head and seems to look down at some...notes?
“I am Jedi Master Mace Windu. Alor is what you call a leader correct?” He asks...asks? That's...different from what he thought he'd find.
“It's a head position. Clan heads would usually be a personal name then Alor; as I am Jaster Mereel head of House Mereel I am also Jaster Alor.” Jaster gives the information to see what the Jedi would do with it. The humanoid man nods as if he was glad he had the right information.
“Right. I am actually the Master of the Jedi Order. I am the Head of the Council. Our Grandmaster is the Oldest sitting Council member for reference since he has a personal request to meet with you.”
Jaster was...pleasantly surprised. It seemed the Jetii were taking him seriously...hopefully.
“So...how are we proceeding. I do demand the right see the child claiming me as his.” Mace nodded and tooka deep breath.
“Our Head Healer of our Order Master Vokara Che is requesting to meet you first. She has a sample of Ben's DNA and would like to preform a Paternity test before the actual meeting. We are not disputing any claim either Ben nor you have; but as Ben's intel was from when he was four; you understand that we must confirm first.” Jaster stalled the natural instinct to snarl at being denied seeing his child; but he can see the sense in the action.
“Understood. I will submit to the test.”
“Then I will give the landing permission code to your pilot. How many are accompanying you on to the Temple?”
“To the temple; only my immediate family My Riduur Kal Skirata and Eldest Son Jango Fett; as well as Jango's personal second Myles of House Mereel.” Mace made a note of the people coming and bowed his head.
“We look forward to a peaceful meeting with you Manda'lore Mereel.” Jaster nodded.
“And I as well. I want it clear Master Jedi; that I hold no ill will toward your people for something done centuries before any of our peoples today were even a possibility. No; my only priority is that of a child which might be mine. And even if he isn't he contacted me with a plea for help. I do NOT take these things lightly. It is well known you do not endanger Ade around a Mandalorian.” Mace looked at him with a new light of respect.
“I appreciate your conviction in this matter; but I must also repeat another known adage that is in the Galaxy. If you want to take the Padawan; you better make karking damn sure the Master is dead. Even though the Master in charge of Ben's health has failed spectacularly...we of the Jedi Council are ready and willing to take up the charge if any put him in danger.”
Jaster's lips twitched in an involuntary smile.
“I think you and I are going to get along splendidly Master Mace Windu.”
Mace sent him an answering twitch and both Holos cut off.

Master Che entered the Council chamber and came face to face with the most astonishing sight seen in the Jedi Temple of Courascant in...well before her time. She held in her hands a test result and she was delivering it to an entire room of Mandalorians and Jedi together.
“Master Che.” Mace nodded his head toward her and all eyes turned to her. But she wasn't the head of the Healing halls for nothing. She stood straight and her head held high as she stopped into the middle of the room; not too far from the group of armored Mandalorians. It was strange that even though their peoples were known enemies she felt no fear of them.
“I have the results of the Paternity test between our own Ben Lars...” She turned to Jaster. “We used his mother's name that he gave us to use for his data work once it was known what Obi-wan Kenobi wasn't truly his name.” Jaster nodded and his glacial stare warmed considerably. Vokara then turned back to the Council and took a breath.
“The results...what are?” Yoda asked leaning forward and clutching his gimmer stick in his clawed hands.
“Positive Master Yoda. The test result came back with a 99.9% positive confirmation.” The masters met this news with stoic acceptance while the Mandarins seemed to start talking over each other at once in a bid to ask questions about the boy. Jaster held up his hand in a demand for quiet and was granted it immediately. He then turned to the Council.
“Thank you for giving me this chance to confirm what is true. And now I wish to see my son.” The council looked at each other wary. They had spoken about this. About what they would do if it all turned out to be true; if one of their own was to have another connection to another peoples.
Healer Che; of course only had one problem on her mind.
“Ser Mereel; I must speak with you in regard to Ben's health.”
“My best man already hacked into your servers. We know all about the deficiencies and strain on his body.” Kal said in a deadly voice and Vokara almost attacked from the swell of rage that filled her; but she was Jedi.
“You. Dare...” Jaster sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose not noticing that Mace was doing the exact same thing.
“Can we see my Vod'ika now?” Jango chimed in at the perfect moment stalling the bloodshed Jaster just knew was about to happen. Vokara snarled one last time at Kal before turning to the young adult of nineteen.
“He's under strict restrictions. He's only been allowed to leave the Halls of Healing since yesterday. He likes to go to the Creche when he's in temple for the youngling's story time. I believe that is happening at this moment.” Jaster's heart leapt.
It was time to see his son.
The temple was honestly quite impressive. Jango had to admit as he walked along with the Jedi that was showing them to the Creche. and he couldn't resist the smirk that lit up his face.
“SO; how far are we from the famous Jedi Archives? Buir has been trying to find a way into your Archives for years.” He says to the Jedi beside him. A large Kel Dorian he thinks is named Plo. The Jedi looks at him and his tusks twitch in amusement.
“Perhaps we can arrange a leisurely visit with Madam Nu while you are visiting.” The woman next to him snorted at the prospect.
“Don't think she'll allow outsiders in?” Jango asked with a glare. The woman turned to him with pure amusement shining in her eyes like stars.
“Considering she barely lets JEDI into her precious Archives I'm going to bet NO. Madam Nu has been labeled the scariest Master in the ORDER by the Crechlings for decades.” She said before laughing. “It's a running joke that she's a reincarnated Krayte Dragon and the Data Pads in the Archives are her new version of her eggs.”
“Depa; do not spread rumors about our senior members.” Mace said; but didn't look surprised when the woman seemed completely unrepentant.
“Master; you turned white as a ghost when you came back from a long mission and realized you were two weeks over due for a data pad.” Mace just huffed and ignored the entire comment and turned to Jaster to speak more about the care they were doing for Ben. Depa just cackled as that meant she won the topic.
“How do you know he was scared?” Myles asked from Jango's other side. Depa's smiled just turned soft.
“He was my Master. He raised since I was twelve; and despite being on the Council I think he still sees me as that lanky teenager.”
“Buire always see their Ad as children; even when their all grown up and giving them Bu'ade. It's the way of things.” Jaster said turning from Mace with an indulgent smile of his own.
“Many Padawans I have had.” Yoda said from where he was riding on Plo's shoulder. “Still see their innocent smile I do.” His smile dimmed. “Even if it leads to mistakes.” Plo reached up and touched Yoda's arm.
“Mistakes; yes; but to admit them and try and fix them are all anyone can do.” He said kindly as they moved on.
They had reached the Creche.
It honestly was more than the Mandalorians were expecting.
In rooms older younglings of all species were playing games with each other. Floating balls across the room; and playing tag. Then in other rooms; younger kids were gathered around tables with bright colored crayons and paint splotches were on the wall from 'accidents' that even the most harden warrior would recognize as a hazard of giving a youngling messy things to play with.
“It appears I owe your peoples an apology.” Kal said with a soft smile on his face. “Any who can raise younglings with such joy are not an enemy of mine.” Mace turned to him with a softer tilt to his mouth and a nod of thanks.
and Jaster froze as he rounded a corner.
There; sitting on a soft looking chair; was Ben. He was surrounded by a gaggle of children who were in piles and groups giving him their rapt attention as he spoke. It was obvious he was tired; but he still held the little tiny Rodian child in his lap firmly and carefully.
“Obi; will you sing the song?” The little Rodian in his lap asked; his big eyes radiating plea and innocence and Ben laughed tapping him on his nose.
“You know Master Jinn doesn't like me singing that song.”
“Massa Jinn is a Poodoo Head.” A little Nautolin said with all the conviction her little lisp and missing teeth could inspire. Ben let the snort be ripped from him before he all but slapped a hand over his mouth.
“Reah...” He tried to sound disapproving...he sounded so amused it hurt.
“She's right. Please.....” A human boy asked with a big bright smile. “It always makes nap time better; and we can't have painting today until we take a nap...” And with logic like that Obi-wan crumbled with an indulgent smile. He took a deep breath and started humming.

Sleep now foundling
the fire burns low
let the quiet of cooled forge grow
rest your head where the clan stands true
there is a place already for you.

you are not orphan, lost, or alone
you are clan now, you are home
the way is more than blood or name
it is the heart where we become the same
this is the way,

Jaster listened to the lyrics he had taught Amara on the many nights when her visions clouded her head and sleep refused to come easy. He had taught her; as his Buir had taught him; the lullaby of his people, to let their new foundlings know that they would never know loneliness again.
With tears suddenly staining he cheeks he moved forward as if in a trance.
And he sang.

you are not alone
Safe in the place that we call home
no harm will come, when I defend
I will be here until the end
this is the way

Ben looked up fast and his eyes widened as a deep tenor voice sang the lyrics he had ever only shared with children younger than him. The song his mother's voice still echoed in his dreams along with her colors. Though her features had faded to time and loss; the song was his connection to her; to his family. The man walking toward him was tall, very tall, and Ben noticed that the Holo he had shared with the man had hidden his deep olive colored skin and bright almost golden brown eyes.
Eyes that were streaming with tears.
He knew this song.
His father knew this song.
Ben felt his heart swell; and he answered the song back, and they sang together.
As father and son.

you are my heart
though we were once two worlds apart
blood doesn't define, what a heart will say
you are my family.
You are my way.

Kal watched his other half with the child of the woman they had both loved so dearly that they still felt the ache of loss even now. Fourteen years later. But seeing the child; the utter GIFT she had left behind for them; Kal dived forward. His heart of steel melting only for his family. He reached them; dimly aware of the Jedi gathering the children up and leading them away to give them privacy for this miracle.
Two voices became three.

sleep now foundling, let it fade,
all the fears your heart once made
you do not walk a path alone
you do not carry weight unknown
you are not drifting, lost, or small
for I will answer when you call
and I would break the world in two
if that's what it took to protect you.
This is the way

Myles wasn't really apart of of this family reveal. He was Jango's second; his best friend; and maybe someday; his Riduur. But this WAS for Jango to be apart of. He put his hand in the small of Jango's back and pushed. The young man almost startled; but he had already been itching to join this moment. This song that welcomed every child into the way of the Mandalorian. This song that connected every lost scared child with a Buir that; as the song said; would rip the worlds apart to protect the child.

Jaster turned to him and held out his hand that was wasn't gripping Ben's head to his chest as the child clung to him; desperation and happiness in both of them. Jango slipped into the embrace of his Buire; and his new brother.
Three became four:

you are not alone
safe in the place that we call home
no harm will come when I defend
I will be here, until the end
this is the way
you are my heart
though we were once
two worlds apart
blood doesn't define what a heart will say
you are my family.
You are my way.

Jango looked at his friend and rolled his wet and dripping eyes and demanded his joining them with a tilt of his head. Myles sniffled and sobbed because of course he was crying too damn it. This was a moment all Mandalorians dreamed about. If he was invited; of course he was joining in.
four became five. As all who sing this song; are Aliit.

Sleep now foundling close your eyes
beyond the reach of empty skies
you are not bound by where you start
but where you live inside a heart
and mine has made a place for you
not by blood but something true
family is what we decide.
After all...
Aliit ori'shya tal'din. (family is more than blood)
this is the way
you are not alone
safe in the place, that we call home.
No harm will come when I defend
I will be here until the end.
This is the way
you are my heart
though we were once two worlds apart
blood doesn't define what a heart will say
you are my family, you are my way

Mace watched the scene and closed his eyes. The feeling of joy and love and acceptance that was filling the Force was almost intoxicating. There wasn't a dry eye among any of them. Depa appeared beside him and slipped a slender hand into his and smiled at the man that raised her.
“I think we are so much more alike with Mandalorians than we originally thought Master.” She said a little wetly and both laughed. He nodded once.
“Yes. I think we are Depa. I really think we are.”

Ben pulled away from the group hug he had found himself in quickly wiping his eyes and sniffling a little as he looked at the man. In real life he saw the similarities. His coloring; skin, hair, and eyes, were all his mother. But he had Jaster's cheekbones, and his chin. He thought he'd have his nose; but he couldn't be sure with how out of place it was having been broken so many times.
Without thinking he reached up and touched the man nose who laughed and did the same.
“Yeah; it's a little crooked; but it wouldn't matter. You have Amara's nose.” He said fondly. Kal reached over tapped Ben's nose as well.
“Amara is actually ONE of the reasons his nose is crooked. It's how they met. We were in a Market on Stewjon and this Dikut just HAD to have a jogun. So he just walked over and grabbed one. Not even seeing the woman who was looking at the same fruit. Scared the Kriff out of her. She whirled around screaming and whacked him in the nose with all her might.” Ben snorted trying to cover it up; but Jaster's face turned wistful and besotted.
“It was love at first strike.” he said with a sigh.
“Jeeze Buir. And you call ME a helpless romantic. At least I had the sense of just saying HI to Myles.” Jango said with a fond roll of his eyes making Ben look at him.
“I...hello.” He said suddenly shy and looked away first fiddling with his sleeves. Jango gave a crooked smirk and leaned over to ruffle the teen's hair.
“Hiya Vod'ika. Names Jango; but you can call me Ori'vod. Buir adopted me when I was about your age. So don't worry; you have someone to gripe to when he goes all over protective nesting Krayte Dragon on you.” Ben's smile was shy but real and Jango felt himself click into place as an older brother.
“Ahem.” a voice called and everyone turned to find Master Che standing in the doorway with an admittedly softer look on her face than Ben was used to seeing.
“I hate to interrupt this scene; really I do; but it's nearing 12th hour and Padawan Ben hasn't had lunch yet.” Ben blushed and ducked his chin close to his chest and curled his arms around himself in a protective manner. Master Che hurried forward and cradled his face in her hands making shy embarrassed eyes look at her.
“It's not a weakness Ben. You're just healing. I promise; I won't let this be forever. There is NOTHING to be ashamed of.”
“There isn't Ben'ika.” Jaster said running his fingers through the child's red hair digging in with just enough pressure to have Ben's eyes close and lean into the touch with a...Jaster and Kal lit up with delight.
“Did he just purr?!” Jango asked while Master Che blinked in shock.
“Stewjoni trait.” Jaster and Kal said in unison with glee.
“His mother did that if we could get her calm and hit just the right spot above the nape of her neck. Kal does it too actually; though I think he'd kill anyone that actually heard him.” Jaster's voice turned soft as he spoke and Ben looked at him with wide eyes.
“Can you tell me more? I...the memories are...fuzzy...” Jaster nodded as he followed the Jedi Healer and kept an arm around Ben's shoulder. Nothing would stop him from protecting his ade.

The Mess hall was as communal as the Creche had been. Jango wondered if the rest of the galaxy would be as shocked as him to learn that the Jedi weren't emotionless monks that spent all day coming up with new ways to be creepy.
No; instead...there were teenagers with long braids like Ben's laughing in groups and talking in quite whispers. There were grown beings scarfing down food half hardheartedly as they payed more attention to their data pads with serious looks on their faces. A couple even looked to be half asleep and only getting their food in their mouth by sheer force of will.
“BEN!” A tall man with shoulder length blond hair and bright blue eyes smiled as he ducked out of line for taking an order and made a beeline for the group. Ben looked over at his name and his face lit up.
“Feemor!” He cried in delight and took off to meet him halfway and threw his arms around the man who laughed in delight going so far as to pick up the teenager in his arms. Ben yelped and tried to glare at the man; but it looked like a kitten trying hiss at a fully grown Tooka who had already gotten to the canary first.
“No!” Ben said trying to wiggle out of the embrace. “I'm fourteen! I'm too old for this!” He said and the whine was just there in his voice that Jango just couldn't stop his cackle. Jaster sent him a look that showed his own hidden amusement; but the jealousy was still present as he walked over to the man holding HIS Ad.
“Hello. I'm Jaster Mereel.” The man looked up and smiled with such good nature and kindness all jealousy evaporated from the father. Feemor just used his height and a little misuse of the force to hitch Ben up higher on his hip and held out a hand.
“Hello. I am Jedi Knight Feemor Stahl. I'm this little one's Elder Brother.”
“Excuse me? I'M the Elder brother.” Jango said hotly; but all that earned him was an amused once over from the ridiculously bright blue eyes.
“Oh yeah? I'm 28. you?” Jango felt his annoyance grow and recede all at once as he backed down and grumbled almost under his breath.
“21.” It was all but force out of him. Feemor grinned back with a chuckle before turning to Ben who had; by now; excepted his fate and just settled with his head on the Knight's shoulder.
“Hey there little Cub. How you feeling today?” Ben huffed; but smiled despite himself. Jaster recognized the learned behavior of always being perfect being slowly eroded by the desire to be cared for.
“Better. I'm still tired all the time. Quin let me sleep with him since he and Master Tholme are still in temple. It's easier to sleep with someone else.” Feemor nodded easily.
“That's okay. I know for a fact that Master Dooku still lets Master Syfo slip into his bed when he's been forced into the Halls after a really bad vision.” Ben nodded.
“I've been meeting with Master Syfo in the halls. We talk about our visions. He says now that he knows I'm from the same line as him he knows how to help my visions better than I used to. He's been meditating with me too. He's showing me all these tricks to stay in my body when the Force starts pulling at me.” Feemor lit up at that.
“Yeah? I was worried when I heard you were under watch for Force Pulls.”
“Force Pulls?” Jaster asked worried before his face cleared. “Is that where he goes into a sort of trance and can't see or hear the world around him? Amara used to do that. We'd get her to come back by rubbing on her back and arms and she loved when I braided her hair.”
“Master Jinn said it was because I wasn't mindful of the present...” Ben started; but Feemor used his free hand not holding him to nudge his chin.
“Hey little Cub; what did we talk about? Say it for me.” He said kindly but firmly
“Master Jinn was wrong in how he treated me and I deserve to be how I am.” Ben recited. “I'm am different and that is okay. It is a good thing to be different.”
“Good; now come on. I think the Master on Mess Hall duty today has Tiết Canh.” Ben's face lit up and he struggled again to be released even as his mouth open and his K9s started to elongate.
He stilled and his eyes widened as he slapped a hand over his mouth and a whimper escaped him; but Feemor just shook his head softly.
“It's okay Ben. You don't have to hide anymore. You're safe here. I promise.” Ben's form relaxed and when he was set down he smiled shyly before darting over to the line to wait his turn.
“ Tiết Canh?” Jaster asked completely unsurprised to find his son had inherited his mother's predatory lineage. Very little was known about Stewjon; even for others in the same Space Sector; but having loved a Stewjoni Jaster knew very well predator instincts that lied in the people of the planet. Feemor turned to him.
“It's a dish served on a planet that's made with pure duck blood, viscera and duck meat. The freshly extracted blood is mixed with a certain amount of fish sauce to prevent coagulation. Usually, one quart of blood is thinned using five to six teaspoons of fish sauce. The prepared dish is stored in the fridge so that the coagulated state of the blood can remain maintained.”
Jaster nodded in understanding.
“I haven't heard of that dish.” He says thoughtfully.
“You know much about Ben's people?” Master Che spoke up for the first time earning the Manda'lore's attention. He turned to her and nodded.
“Yes; I WAS married to one.” He said as they too got in line for ordering and Master Che figuratively pounced.
“Is there any information you can share? I am doing what I can from what Master Yoda has told me of his grandmother when he knew her.” She said pointing to Master Yoda still perched on Plo's shoulder; but he had gone sad and quiet when Ben had to be reminded that Jinn; whoever he was; was wrong about who he needed to be.
“Then it's probably not much information. Amara said her Buire's people were older than even the people on the Home Planet. True Stewjoni blood untainted by outsiders. Whatever that meant.” Master Che's eyes widened in shock.
“What am I missing?”
“Well; for one thing I'm sure you've noticed by now he is of a predator based blood.” Kal pointed to his own teeth. They were sharper than a humanoid; but his K9s were normal sized compared to Ben's now were that were just peaking over his lips.
“How did he hide it?” Master Che muttered before shaking her head; her Lekku the only thing revealing her annoyance at her lack of knowledge. “Yes; we have figured that out ourselves through the youngling's that helped hide Ben's lineage. We have been giving him much more protein than he used to get; and after one of them mentioned his affinity for blood pops we've been adding blood based recipes into his diet. He's taking to them so much better; and getting him to eat is a lot easier than used to be when he was young.”
Jaster nodded.
“True; blood is an integral part of his diet. He's not full Vampiric like those on 'Night Moon' are; but it helps since he's easily Iron Deficient if he's not careful which leads to sever anemia. And since I'M not Stewjoni he can eat a lot more varied food than his mother could...or he will when he reaches Majority.”
“Like Jaster said. Amara's people were not full on Vampiric; but they rely heavily on their hunting instincts to keep their young alive. The young are very protected because their needs are twice that of an adult. And their instincts are too overwhelming for them. It's why they get easily frustrated. The instinct to hunt verses the ability to control the urges. We as a people are also very tactile. We crave touch. Hugs, head pats, cuddling. It's very big with us” Plo's tusks twitched in his species version panic while Mace just closed his eyes in despair. Yoda's ears all but flattened against his head in his sadness and Feemor snarled and punched the wall he was now leaning against. Ben had stopped from where he was standing beside the ordering window and stared at them all in wide eyed shock.
“So...I'm not bad...because I get frustrated easily? And that I want hugs. Can I ask for cuddles then?” Feemor quickly rushed over and picked Ben up again holding him close; never wanting him out of arms reach again. For the first time since they started treating Ben the Jedi saw him complete and utterly relaxed.
Feemor held Ben firmly; and his other hand was gentle as ran his fingers through red hair. He looked over at Feemor who looked back at the bowl of chilled soup waiting; a suspiciously absent Jedi Master not to be found at the window. Feemor quickly picked the bowl up and they all went to a clear table gathering around it; none of the adults bothering with food of their own. Ben looked at his food shyly; but at Jaster's kind smile and nod of encouragement; he took a bite; then another. And soon he was happily eating; his longer teeth helping him shred the tender bird meat with ease.
“So; you're Stewjoni like me?” Ben asked Kal after his latest spoonful his eyes a little dilated as his body absorbs the nutrients from the blood. Kal smiled at his Ad showing his sharpened teeth.
“As stated; I'm not of the same sect as Amara; but from Stewjon Prime. We are almost identical in species...though Amara was much more predatory than even I am.”
“And that's saying something.” Myles said with a laugh earning a light hearted cuff to the ear. He just laughed louder.
“But isn't Kal Mandalorian?” Kal's smile turned proud.
“Yes. My entire clan was wiped out by slavers when I was only 3. I was rescued by a passing Mandalorian who saved me. I was too young to be able to say my name; we don't talk until we're at least four; and no one was alive to tell him. But when he tried to reach me from my hiding place I bit him. Hard.” Ben winced remembering all the times he had resisted the urge bit someone with soooo much difficulty.
“Was he mad?” Ben asked and Kal burst into bright peals of laughter.
“Mad? No Ad'ika. He almost broke a rib laughing so heard. It's how I got my name. He said my teeth and instincts were as sharp as a knife; and so a knife I shall be named after.” He smiled in pride at his name.
“I wonder what my name means?” Ben wondered tapping his spoon against his bowl.
“Considering Ben might be a nickname? I think Amara would have named you Benjari. It's Stewjoni for 'Child born of Light'.” Ben's eyes widened at the name as a soft voice rang through his memories of a woman humming softly to him calling him her precious Benjari. Saying how he was her light.
He smelled the soft soothing scent of Night Blossoms in the air and the cool light of a bright moon on his skin as he looked around a field of silver flowers. His mother holding him and pointing to the harvesting of said flowers going on.
'look Benjari; the Night Flowers are our peoples anthem to the light. How when it is at the darkest of the hours; they shine the brightest.'
Ben came back to himself sobbing and hiccuping about pretty flowers and soft scents and warm hands. His instincts raging as he sobbed and cried into the shoulder holding him. It had been so MANY years since he remembered his mother's voice. Since he felt the love that she poured through their bond like a living thing. Coating his mind in protection and peace.
All these years he's barely remembered her; and now the memory flooding him was too much in his weakened state. Jaster had seen the second his son shut down; and was already out of his seat; holding his boy on his hip and swaying gently as he had for Jango when he woke up from nightmares about his parents murder. He didn't shush the boy; simply started humming the lullaby they had all sang together earlier. Murmuring into the boy's ear until he became heavier and heavier; and his breathing slowed; and slowed; until it was even and low. His thumb creeping into his mouth.
“Jaster?” Kal asked in worry; but Jaster just smiled at his Riduur.
“He's okay. His mind is just as tired as his body. I doubt he's allowed himself to remember Amara for years.”
“Please. Though he's been bunking with one of his creche mates; he was put into my care. Let's regroup in my rooms and we can speak more clearly while he rests.” Jaster nodded at this wisdom and followed with the boy still sleeping on his shoulder.

Jaster took pleasure in tucking his Ad into the bed Mace had shown him too; watching the boy curl up and sigh softly as dreams took him. Then he ventured into the sitting room to find another Jedi with a tall lanky teenager at his elbow who was glaring at Kal with all he was worth before turning that glare onto Jaster.
“Just cause you're his dad doesn't mean you're good enough for him.” He mutters and the Jedi beside him sighs in the way all Buir know and covers his face in fond exhaustion.
“Quinlan...” he starts; but the mulish boy refuses to repent and crosses his arms in stubbornness. Jaster feels himself smiling as he walks forward and kneels to be eye to eye with the teenager giving him only earnest honesty.
“Though Ben's family is growing; he will always need his Vod. His brother.” He said earning a wide eyed look from the obviously surprised teen. “I'm not here to take him from you. I only want to be in my son's life.” Quinlan looked at him in awe before doing his best to close off to him.
“Fine; maybe you're good enough. Where's Obes?”
“He became upset and is now sleeping in his room.” Mace said and the stubbornness and readiness to fight faded as worry etched itself onto the boy's face and quickly took off down the hall.
“I apologize for my Padawan...” Tholme started; but Jaster straightened and shook his head.
“It is nothing friend. Aliit care for Aliit. It is the way of things.” He said with an easy smile and turned to sit between Kal and Jango who were seated on the larger couch.
“Much Explaining I have to do.” Yoda started after a moment of quiet. “Much to apologize for. There is.”
“Master Jedi; I just want to know how my son came into your care.” Jaster said seriously. “Amara would never have parted from her son willingly; and she NEVER would have named him Obi-wan Kenobi.”
“I'm sorry; I'm still very confused on that part. I thought that WAS his name.” Tholme said confused. “Before the talk of Ben started at least.”
“Obi-wan Kenobi is Stewjoni for Child of none clan of none.” Kal said softly. “It is what Dar'buir call their children if they cast them out. Many who are Stars Touched...um...Force Sensitive are abandoned; but we Mandalorians are quick to intervene before any of the old practices can pop up. All know what would happen if you were caught.”
“Do this lightly; Amara did not.” Yoda said gravely. “Start I will at the beginning. Long before Ben was born.”
“The Mystic Massacre?” Feemor asked and Yoda nodded.
“The Mystics; OLD Clan they were. Bloodline going back to the beginning of Stewjon; moved to the Moon that orbited one of the other moons from the Prime planet they did; when too many nulls started fearing them. Dark times that was for Force Sensitives. Old practices as you say. Small though the clan was; POWERFUL the peoples of the Sect were. Cosmic Force they were connected to. Visions as normal to them; as Meditating is to US. But more than that. Used the Cosmic Force to HEAL; they could.”
“Heal? Like when Amara was able to knit my skin together after a stab wound on a bad hunt?” Kal asked and Yoda nodded.
“Yes; among other things. POWERFUL and ANCIENT they were. Apart of the clan meant to be of a larger part. No Mystic could live alone. No Mystic could leave the Sect. Not for fear of reprimand or such; but for fear of being lost to the pull of the Force.”
“Then what protected Ben?” Jango asked worried.
“Only HALF Mystic is Ben. Sir Mereel's blood watered the viciousness of the weakness it has. Thought that meant safe I could keep him. Hidden I could keep him. But take into account OTHER things it means to be Stewjoni I had not take into account.”
“Okay; back up. If the Mystics needed each other to be sane...how did AMARA end up on Stewjon...alone?”
“One hundred years ago; a Massacre happened.” Yoda said sadly. “Know not what caused it; know not what depraved being was able to over power and kill such a mighty people. Only clue I found when I investigated...was lightsaber burns on all the bodies.”
“Master Dralige keeps the case as open even now.” Feemor said sadly. At the Mandalorians curious looks he smiled and pointed to himself.
“I'm a Shadow. I think...in your terms...um what did Ben call it when we were talking about your culture; Supercommandos?” Jaster made an Ah face and nodded his understanding. “Anyway; we are the protectors of the Order. The Guards you see in armor; the ones that travel and slip into the dark to protect the light we find trying to survive there.” His smile grew a little more savage and bloodthirsty. “I may or may not have had a hand in a certain slave trade's destruction called the Broken Ring...that I can neither confirm nor deny were targeting Force Users.”
Silence.
“Are you against dating two beings at once?” Myles asked with a hungry look in his eyes. “Jango and I promise it'll be a good time.” Feemor snickered and winked at the two younger men making those that raised them roll their eyes.
“ANYWAY.” Mace said as Plo sat there chuckling and Depa just cackled gleefully. “After the Massacre we found a few survivors. Two quickly were pulled into the Force without a tether; but two had mated and were able to live a form of life.” He turned to Yoda to continue since this was his story. Yoda nodded.
“Had a child they did. Scared for her they were. STRONG the Cosmic Force she was. Taught her as best I could. Control; protection. It was enough for her to learn to live with; and obviously created bonds she did.” He nodded to Jaster and Kal who nodded.
“Then one day; arrived with a child she did. Said that the man matching the description her parents gave; found them he did. Terrified he would take her child she was. Ben; STRONG in the Cosmic Force he is; but able to USE that strength without the need of others to a better extent. If taken; if molded into something DARK...destroy everything in his path he could. More deadly than even the Sith at their peak he would be.”
Silence.
“That is...mildly terrifying.” Myles admitted; but shook his head; his blue skin blushing at having said that out loud. “So; you hid him among your peoples? Why didn't you just take in his mother as well?”
“Tried I did. Said he had seen her she did; and ran into the night before stop her I could. Told to NEVER let any know who Ben Lars was. That her brother safe because he was born a Null rare in her line; but not unheard of if times are destructive.”
“Can't get more destructing that the wiping out of an entire race.” Jango muttered angrily.
Yoda nodded.
“Too tempting was Ben. So; stripped him of his name she did; to keep him alive. Keep him safe.”
“And that is how Ben became Obi-wan.” Jaster nodded. “How did he end up in such poor condition?” Yoda wilted.
“My fault it is. Wanted him in my lineage; attached I became without knowing it. Suffering my Grandpadawan was. Lost his Padawan to the Dark he did. Thought teaching one so LIGHT; heal him it would. Meant only to put Ben in his path; to let him see the light the Order was 'giving up'.” He sighed sadly.
“If failed my plan did; bring him back I would have. Proud I was; when worked it did.”
“We never even questioned what happened on the mission other than the initial report. We have learned since...even if he had been a grown being we never would have allowed what happened to Padawan Ben.” Mace said wearily.
“What happened to the one who did all of this?” Kal asked his voice hard.
“Stepped down from the council I have. Time it has come; for new ways to take over. Many reforms are being put through. In the care of our young the most has brought. NEVER again will we allow such danger for them to be put in.”
“And the OTHER Jedi?” Kal demanded his eyes cold.
“He's been demoted from Master to Knight and is being forced into the care of a Mind Healer. He is not a bad person Sir Skirata. He is sick. But it has been put in his file that he will never be allowed the opportunity to have another Padawan again. I think he's relieved about that. Somewhere inside of him; the man I grew up with is still there. He just needs help finding the light again.”
Kal started snarl at that; but Jaster put a hand on his shoulder.
“Is this man a Dar'buir. Yes Kal. But sickness does not make him Dar'manda. He has a chance to find his soul again. It is not for us to condemn when he is getting help. Our only priority going forward is Ben.”
“Yes; about that.” Mace said leaning forward his elbows rested on his knees. “We must speak carefully about this. I admit we failed Ben very grievously. But he is still one of ours. He is still a Jedi. Still our family. I will not abandon him. When we found out Master Jinn was not doing right by him I had already planned on asking if he would allow me to be his Master. I still plan on doing such.”
“What stopped you?” Jaster asked staring him in the eyes.
“You. He; not knowing who to turn to; reached out to you. I will not carelessly dismiss who you are to him. But I will not give him up so easily.” Jaster and Mace stared each other down; neither looking away. Then Jaster sighed and took on a deliberately relaxed pose to try and ease the tension.
“What are our options? I won't give up my child. But I acknowledge he needs others like him.”
Mace nodded.
“How about we just go simple. Joint Custody. As a planetary leader; you are too important to relocate to Courascant; but my position on the Council is elected and can be replaced. I ask to accompany you as Ben Mereel's Jedi Master once you claim him.”
“Of course you'll have to understand we WILL be visiting. He's got an Elder brother...” Feemor said.
“And an Elder sister since he'll be MY brother Padawan.” Depa interrupted. Jaster looked at the Jedi around him and hid his smirk behind his clasped fingers.
“Joint Custody. It's never been done between our peoples. It's sure to raise a fuss; but...Kark I love a good fuss. So he's to continue his Jedi training...but he will also need to train for his station as Second Son of the Manda'lore. He'll be Jango's Right Hand once he's of age.”
“Or you could just give HIM the title of Heir.” Jango said with an air of hope making his father look at him and he sighed. “Buir. I'm a Bounty Hunter. Other than Farming; it's all I've ever been good at. It's WHO I AM. I've never been good at politics. I have an admittedly BAD temper; and let's face it. I insult those Hut'uun Evarr'ade as easy as breathing. They'll NEVER come to an agreement with you if I'M what they have to look forward to once you decide to retire. And; you have years before it becomes an issue.” Kal winced.
“He won't even be allowed to have his Verd'gotten till he's been with us...”
“He's already had it.” Jaster said with a great sadness and runs his hands down his face. All eyes are on him.
“Jaster...”
“I read the report same as you Kal.” He turned to the Jedi. “As pissed as you are about us hacking you; I READ what he went through on Melida/Daan. He gave up his HOME to protect Ade. He fought in a WAR for ADE. He fought; and bled; and killed; and almost died...not for glory; or honor or any such thing. He did so because if he didn't; no one would. And more Ade would die than what he had to witness. He has PASSED his Verd'gotten. In BLOOD.”
Kal, Jango, and Myles tapped their fists to their Karta'baskar twice.
“This is the way.” The said in unison. Jaster nodded at his Aliit then turned back to the Jedi.
“What does that mean for Ben?” Plo asked tilting his head in curosity.
“Leeway.” Kal said suddenly with a smile. “Passing a Verd'gotten is our peoples right of Passage. It gives the child a feeling of being a man; and allows them to start training in their preferred field. So no one will think twice if Jaster names him his heir; and then starts his training. We don't have to tell ANYONE about his his mother's people; we just tell people Jaster has an heir and is his youngest child since his two older children refused the title.”
“It buys us an explanation for his heritage without addressing Amara or her people.” Jaster nodded rubbing his chin in thought. “And if we spin the Joint Custody with the Jetii; force it to be known that the Manda'lore's son is Ka'ra'tigaanur; and for the first time since Manda'lore Vizsla we have a treaty with the Jetii themselves...to put the Dral'han behind us. To reform and move forward...”
“And if we do this politically. Sign a Treaty and make it public and ostentatious...the Senate will eat it up wit a spoon.” Plo said with a happy twitch of his tusks. Jango laughed.
“So will the Evaar Ade.” He crowed shaking his head. “They're always moaning and whining we're too 'barbaric'; but if we make peace with our 'Most Ancient Enemies' for the sake of an AD...”
“It would cut out an entire third of our three way Civil War.” Jaster said with wide eyes.
No one felt much like discussing anything further after THAT revelation; so Mace had shown Jaster and Kal his bedroom; assuring them that he had slept on the couch more than once after a late night of paperwork. Jaster sent him a commiserating look of sympathetic despair. Then Mace helped Jango set up a Cot in Ben's room while Myles said he'd return to their ship. He said he had things to look into urgently. Jaster and Kal laid in bed together for a while after turning the lights off. Neither really liked the never ending bustle of Coruscant but the knowledge that their son was finally under the same roof as them calmed them immensely.
“I've met him...and it still doesn't seem real.” Jaster whispered into the dark of the room and felt Kal's hand move to grab a hold of and squeeze his hand.
“Amara should have told us. She had many reasons for hiding Ben; but it shouldn't have been from us. It's okay to be angry at her Jas.” Jaster's breath hitched as the emotion hit him and he curled up on his side; hiding his face in his Riduur's collarbone.
“My son doesn't have my name yet.” He whispered out almost broken and sad and yes; angry. He had loved Amara; had promised to do so forever. He had given her his trust; and she had hidden away his SON from him. It was...a betrayal he wasn't sure he could get past. Kal pushed their foreheads together.
“We have him now. He came to us when the time was right. One gift we have is that we have more time with our little boy before he becomes a man.”
“He's so hurt though.” Jaster whimpered.
“And we will be there to take his hand and guide him forward.” Kal assured. “Kark; even the Jetii are rallying trying to fix what they broke. I'll give them that. I still think this Jinn bastard Hut'uun should be raked over red hot coals and then fed to a sarlacc...” He took a deep breath. “But that is my anger; and my instincts. That is my desire for revenge. What I need to think about is the health and happiness of our Ad...all our Ade. I think Jango likes the idea of being an Ori'vod. And when I told Arla about why we weren't going on the Hunt with her she was already making a list of all the types of knives she could get him as a gift.”
Jaster chuckled.
“He did seem a little peeved when the Jetii Guard proved he was the Elder of the three.” The thought was a kind balm to his soul. At least his son wasn't alone. Wasn't abandoned by ALL that he had held dear for most of his life. If he could give his son such a foundation he'd do anything. Even aligning himself with the Jetii. Kark; he'd learn to use one of those stupid Jetii'kad. Though; he drew a line at those flips and things he had seen through clips and such.
His body did NOT move that way.
“I can hear you overthinking Cya're. Go to sleep. I have the watch.” Kal said softly already running his fingers through the short hairs at the base of Jaster's neck. That was cheating. Jaster thought grumpily. Kal knew that was the fastest way to put him to sleep. His last thought before sleep took him was a happy one.
'I can't wait to see if this works on Ben.'

the next morning rose to find Jaster stumbling out of bed and putting his armor on before heading out to the main sitting room he had been in the night before. He looked over and the couch was empty; a blanket neatly folded over a pillow on the right side. He blinked at it for a moment before walking toward the kitchen hearing voices.
“That's right Padawan.” Mace's voice was smooth and kind as he used his larger hands help Ben's smaller ones roll what looked like dough into little tiny balls. Ben giggled as he put a slightly lumpy one next to a perfect sphere.
“So the Mochi covers the red bean paste.” Ben said humming as he took another handful of lumpy...something and put some red paste into it and rolled it up. Mae smiled happily.
“Yes; just like that.” He said proudly and by the Kara he was so good with the youngling it stuttered Jaster's heart. Kark; he was finding the Jetii attractive; wasn't he. Double kark. He took a deep breath and walked into the kitchen knocking on the side of the wall with a smile he hoped was friendly.
“Good morning. Not interrupting am I?” Both Jetii and Padawan turned to him with matching grins of pride.
“Master Mace is teaching me to make Mochi. So that we can have a treat later in the day with tea. He says Green tea is the best to have with this treat.” Jaster nodded Mace stuck the full platter of little balls into the fridge unit and frowned.
“Looks like play-dough.” He said honestly making Ben break into a peal of giggles. He tried valiantly to hid them in his hand; but the happiness was shining through his eyes like stars.
“That's what I said Buir.” he giggled and missed Jaster's heart stopping and a sappy look cross his face. Jaster remembered this feeling from the first time Jango had said the word; so he was punched in the chest like that time; but he was able to control himself and not have to leave the room to cry in happiness...by the skin of his teeth; but no one needed to know that part.
“So; what is it? You have it with tea...is it a sweet?”
“In a way.” Mace said handing one of the little balls over to Jaster with a knowing smile of his own. He hadn't missed Jaster's moment after all. “It's not so sweet as to overpower the tea though. It's made of rice flower; and beaten and steamed until it's stretchy...” He proved this by tearing the ball in two and letting Jaster see the skin of the outer layer...well...stretch. “Then it's filled with filling; but I've always preferred red bean paste. I don't have that much of a sweet tooth.” he handed over half of the treat to Jaster and the other half to a shocked Ben. Mace just smiled.
“A chef always tastes his creations to make sure they're right.” He said and then popped a whole one into his mouth with a hum. Jaster didn't miss that it was one of the smaller lumpy ones that he bet Ben had made.
“Very good indeed.” He ensured and Ben smiled as he put the bite into his mouth and hummed.
“Yummy.” he said and Jaster just shrugged and popped the little bite into his mouth as well. It was chewy; and the red bean paste was both sweet and not at the same time. He blinked.
“I think this could be addictive if I'm not careful.” He admitted. “This would be very good with some Shig.”
“Shig?” Mace asked and Ben lit up.
“It's a Mandalorian beverage. It's any infusion of whatever's available, but usually a stimulant herb with a citrus flavor called behot. I've always wanted to try it.”
“I think we should wait until you can handle more caffeinated things. The word stimulant in that definition isn't a joke. And Mandalorians; by nature; prefer things MUCH more spicy than others in the galaxy.” Ben nodded while jumping on the balls of his feet.
“I know. One time; when I was ten Master Tholme took Quinlan and me out for an afternoon with some credits. We went to Little Kaldabe under disguise...cause Jedi aren't really allowed in their part of the city; and we got a stand's Tiingalar. It was the BEST thing I've ever had; but Quinlan had to drink three glasses of Blue Milk before the tears stopped.” The childish glee that he had been able to handle something a bigger kid hadn't was so evident on Ben's face Mace and Jaster shared a smile over it.
“Ha. Wait till you taste Kal's. Every family has a different variant of the casserole and his; in my opinion can't be beat. Won the blue ribbon in our Clan's annual cook off for the last three years. Even Silas loves it and he always snarls like a Gundark when his losses.”
“That's because he can barely boil water Jas. It's not exactly hard to beat him.” Kal said as he stumbled into the room stretching his arms over his head. “Please; for the Kara; tell me there's Caff.” he pleaded and Mace smiled and nodded to the pot already percolating by the fridge unit.
Kal made a beeline to it and inhaled the scent. Then sighed in relief.
“Hello my first love.” He murmured pouring himself a cup and taking a deep sip. Jaster just laughed.
“The only thing I've ever had to fear for taking his affection from me. Caff.”
“It's an affair you are a ware of. It's the best I an do.” Kal says with sigh of relief as the caffeinated drink hits his system. Ben snickered at the adults teasing each other.
Then Jaster sees the glowing electrical bracelet on Ben's wrist and he freezes.
“Is that...is that a FORCE SUPRECOR?” he asks in shock and anger reaching out to take Ben's hand and holding up to see the glowing blue light going through a series of blips and beeps. Mace looked over; unconcerned; and nodded from where he was putting a batch of Mochi in the fridge unit.
“Yes. With as poor as Ben's health is; his weight; his strained muscles; and deficiencies... and that's not even to mention the mental fatigue he suffered from first Melida/Daan and then stopping that missile in Little Keldabe; his shields are; quite frankly; shot to hell and back.” He walked over and took Ben's hand from Jaster and looked over the device.
“When he suffered four Pulls in the span of 2 hours; Healer Che put this on him to keep his mind in his own body. It is not a cuff; he can take it off himself if he needs to; but it is not safe. After first meal we will go to the Healer's Halls and myself; Master Plo; and Master Yoda will meditate with Ben acting as a buffer between him and the Force while allowing him to connect with it.”
“Are the Pulls going to be a problem going forward?” Kal asked worried; but Mace shook his head.
“No; not forever...Well; not beyond his biology will dictate. He IS still technically a member of the Mystics by blood. But his body is going to take time to heal; but it will heal. We will make sure of it; and his mind; hopefully; will reflect that once it knows it is safe. As a warrior you must understand battle fatigue.” Jaster and Kal nodded at the same time.
“Yes; of course. We have protocols in place of our own.” Jaster said with an encouraging smile to Ben who smiled shyly back.
“It's...disorienting if I'm honest. It feels like I'm going around everywhere with a blindfold on; but it doesn't hurt and meditating with the Masters is making it easier to feel the Force without feeling like it's swallowing me whole. Last time I even had a small vision. Just a little one thought. About Initiate Sara meeting Master Ama-Tek and becoming a Padawan.”
“That actually happened; though we told neither the initiate; nor the Master of such a vision for fear of changing either of their decisions.” Mace said as he moved to the stove and started laying out some Nuna Bacon and some bright blue eggs. Ah; Alderaan Bird Eggs. Very full of iron. Jaster noted as he sat down at the table with Ben.
“That's good. Sorry I panicked.” Ben shook his head.
“This is new. You've never been around real Jedi; and I've never been around a Warrior that doesn't use the force before...well; a grown warrior...” he blushed and looked at his hands sadly. “Nield would make a wonderful worrier. He knew how much anger and hatred he had for the Elders...but he never let it effect how he treated the Young...” he sniffled hugged himself. Jaster looked at Mace who nodded in the boy's direction and the father quickly walked over and picked Ben up hugging him tightly.
“Udesiir Ner Ad. Buir ashnar Ja'hilier. (I have the watch).” He whispered into Ben's ear making him relax and put his head on his father's shoulder. At the Mando'a being whispered into his ear Ben finally relaxed; only a few sniffles escaping as he did.
“I miss them. I didn't want to leave.” Mace stilled and looked at Ben sharply and walked over leaving the sizzling meat over the fire. Kal; sensing this might be more important quickly turned the stove off.
“What do you mean you didn't want to leave. Please by the Fore Padawan; tell me Jinn didn't actually kidnap you.” Ben sniffled and shook his head.
“He said if I stayed and the senate found out I was a Jedi they'd refuse Melidaan any help because of me. I couldn't risk their future...” Ben startled very badly when the Caf Pot swung across the room by itself to crash into the wall and send what was left of the hot liquid to dribble down the wall and join the jagged edged pieces of glass on the floor.
Ben looked at the wreckage in horror while Kal looked impressed.
Mace just walked out of the room...well; more liked stomped...before he stood before his floor to ceiling window and put his face in his hands; his shoulders shaking ever so slightly. Ben watched in worry while Jaster looked to Kal who nodded and walked over. He put a hand on the Jedi Master's shoulder in comfort.
“He was my friend.” Mace said; his voice cracking only slightly; but Kal would bet a month's salary that was just the tip of the emotional iceberg hitting the man. “We would argue for hours on any topic just because it was fun. I ENJOYED watching him drive the Council mad even if it gave me a migraine on a good day.”
“I killed one of my closest friends almost a month ago because he was trying to kill my Riduur...he was trying to kill his Manda'lore; for no other reason than that with Jango now ours; he wasn't first in life for the title anymore if something happened to Jaster.” Mace looked at him sadly. “I am...twitchy; when I get angry. And Montross was always ready to fight dirty with me; to make it hurt; to make me work so hard for it nothing else mattered. Let me clear my head. But when I saw his blaster aimed at MY Jaster's back; like a Hu'tuun...”
“There was no choice.” Mace said softly. “Like there is no choice for me to protect my Padawan. Against my friend if I need to.” Kal nodded with pride.
“It is a burden; AND a pleasure to be a protector Master Jetii. One only those of us willing to do so may carry out.” Mace's face relaxed and he nodded. It was then that Mace's Com. Beeped and Kal left so he could answer it.
“Windu.” He said smoothly.
“Master?! Why did I feel so much hurt just now through our Bond? Are you okay? Is BEN okay? He's still wearing the bracelet right? He's not experiencing a pull is he?” Mace smiled at his former Padawan's frantic voice and felt himself settled just that much more.
“We're safe Depa. I...I just learned of another offense Jinn made.”
A pause.
“You know what? Don't tell me.” she said evenly. “I'm already banned from being in the same corridor as him. I kind of need to be able to actually WALK around our Temple to live in it. So for all our sake's...just...don't. Where's my little brother?” Mace's eyes widened.
“Oh Kark; the glass.” He shouted and ran toward his kitchen only to find Jaster sweeping the last of the mess into a dust pan and Ben safely sat on the counter away from the sharp mess being cleaned.
“I got it Master Windu.” Jaster said with a kind smile and Mace sighed in relief.
“I think Sir Mereel; that given all the circumstances we find ourselves in. It's Mace.” Jaster smiled.
“Jaster then. Now; I think breakfast is a disaster. And we've already reached late morning. How about a snack and then we have a big mid meal together instead.”
“We can go to Dex's.” Ben said happily.
“Dex?” Jaster and Kal asked at the same time. “As in; Dexter Jettser? The old smuggler?” Ben shook his head.
“Not a smuggler anymore. He owns the BEST diner on Courascant.”
“I am honestly terrified of asking this; I really am; but how do YOU know Sir Jettser?” Ben shrugged.
“It's not a bad story. Do you remember when my clan all went to the Museum of Intergalactic Science when I was ten and that speeder crash caused all of us to get separated in the chaos?” Mace rubbed his head.
“Boy do I. Pissed off and panicked Creche Master screaming at the council and the Guards going on high alert. It was pandemonium. But...you all returned...on your own?” He asked suddenly wondering why he had never questioned it.
“Dexter found the group I was with and ducked us into his diner and gave us all milkshakes; and then commed a friend of his or something and a grownup showed up with everyone else and took us home. I went there the next day to thank him and he said I was always welcome there.” Mace seemed to blank out before just shaking his head slowly.
“I'm going to just thank the Force it turned out so well; make you drink a protein shake on the way to the healers; and forget this conversation ever happened. For my own sanity.” He said moving to the fridge unit and taking out a pre-made shake in a thermos and handed it to the boy before him. Ben made a face but dutifully started sipping the drink.
“I'm going to go force Jango out of bed or he'll be there all day. We'll meet you after your healer's session or do you want us to join...”
“We'll find you when we're done. You're new and still a little scary to us as a people; so the gossip should make it easy to find you. I'll com Depa and ask her to give you all the grand tour of the Temple. It's been a while since she's gotten to show off her tour guides skills. She's rather good at it.” Mace said and lead Ben to the door who smiled back at his Buire obviously just trying to finish the lack luster shake without having to dwell on the taste.
Neither man minded the lack of goodbye. Both had been forced onto those dreadful shakes many a times by Mij over the years.

While they waited for Depa to show up Jaster went to force Jango out of bed while Kal started Coming his people. The first to answer was Silas.
“Hows the Foundlings?” Kal demanded without a hello. Silas just rolled his eyes fondly.
“Hello to you too Rid'alore. I'm fine; lovely to hear your dulcet tones this fine day.” Came the sarcastic reply before the Holo switched and showed a group of Mandalorians replacing a door to an obviously new wall.
“Looks okay.” Kal said narrowing his eyes to get a better look.
“Oh it is. We reinforced it with durasteel. I'll give the Aruetii this much. Chancellor Valorum may pretend Little Keldabe is under Mandalorian Rule; but he seems to take offense of anyone attacking anyone on his planet. He and a few other senators sent a lot of material to rebuild the home better than before.”
“And the Foundlings?”
“Well; the ones still here are enjoying 'helping' pick out paint color and things for their sleep and dining rooms. But this scare has caused a lot of Mando'ade who have been on the fence about actually taking a child on to get their shebs in gear. We've had a lot of Gai Bal Manda happening over the past few days. Arla showed up last night after her Hunt so she could give you the report in person; but...” Here he smiled. “She's eyeing a cute little female togruta that keeps biting anyone that wants to hold her. So...consider yourself warned; possible future Ba'buir.” Kal just laughed.
“I've made it known to both of my elder children I expect Bu'ade before I get too old to spoil them.”
“You just got a new Ad. Isn't that enough for you.”
“We Stewjoni are very well adapt to handle our Ade. Now; where's Myles. Jango will want an update on his end when he finally joins the land of the living.” Now; Silas winced.
“Right; about that.” He started and Kal frowned. “Everything is fine; no one is hurt...right now.”
“Silas.” Kal snarled narrowing his eyes again. Silas sighed.
“So; apparently; Myles has been looking into the Ade on Melida/Daan. They've been trying to broker peace; but they can't do that with the left over of their Dar'buir; AND rebuild on a planet that is basically dead. All the fighting has destroyed any chances those kids had of any type of agriculture. Some planets like Alderaan and Naboo are trying to send relief efforts; but rumor in the Senate is that the war is trying to kick back up. So...”
“No one wants to stick their neck out for them. Someone is SABATOGING relief effort? For Ade? Karking WHY?” Kal demanded and Silas shook his head.
“I don't know Kal. It makes no sense; but someone doesn't want that planet to find peace. It's all but dead anyway.” Kal snarled.
“Fine; if someone won't let the Ade make peace; we'll bring the peace to them. Load up anyone under the age of majority. We'll claim the lot as Foundlings. The Republic can't say osik about it if they're not going to actually DO anything. Leave the dead ball of dirt to the remaining Dar'manda Hut'uun and whoever wants it's carcass so badly.” Kal shrugged.
“If something really bad comes out of it we'll just destroy the planet. They all but glassed Mandalore; we can return the favor if we HAVE to.”
Silas' smile turned bloodthirsty and pleased.
“Myles is already on his way. I don't think he slept last night. He just came from his meting with you talking about the most copikla ad ever and how he was going to make sure the other ade were okay and took off. He's going there to talk to the leaders of the Young. A Nield and Cerasi. They're the oldest by far at sixteen. I think Myles is going to try and convince them to come with us anyway. I'll let him know to go through with the offer. So...how's the Ad?” At this Kal huffed a sigh.
“Pretty messed up. But the majority of it is fixable...after a LOT of healing; both physical and mental. It didn't help that the Jetii didn't know about the Stewjon instinct to mind difference.” Silas winced. He only new about it because he was Kal's second in command and had trained under him practically since his own Verd'gotten. Kal had been like a second Buir to him. He even stepped up after Silas lost his Buir to Death Watch.
“He has Aliit. YOU have Aliit Kal. You and Jaster aren't in this alone.” Kal laughed a little hysterically.
“You don't know the half of it Si. For one; I need you to see if there's any chance to convincing our men to accept a Jetii.” Silas gave him a deadpan star.
“Sure Kal. I'll get right on it. Should be on the roster right after seeing what they think of Tor Vizla and Duke Kryze posing for a dirty magazine. It'll be all the rage by the spring edition.”
Kal huffed and rubbed a hand over his face.
“I know, I know. But...and you know it's true if I'm saying this; but...the Jetii...they're...different than we thought they were.”
“Different how?”
“They value and protect Ade as fiercely as we do. They raise them communally and...kark Si the little ones are obviously happy. I saw Jetii in their Mess hall and a few of them look just like one of us after a night of nothing but data work.” Silas looked a him a little confused; a little doubtful; but still trusting his friend wouldn't lie about this.
“I woke up this morning and the Jetii; Mace; that's taken over Ben'ika's care was teaching him a how to bake. And kark watching him with an Ad is...kinda hot.” Silas raised an eyebrow but shrugged.
“I'll have to see it; but if they're that...normal; it shouldn't take long for the Di'kuut of the Ha'aat Mando'ade to leave them alone. It's new; just give it time I guess.” Kal nodded. He looks over to spot Jaster fondly trailing a groggy Jango into the room and fights a smile of his own. That boy could sleep through a raid if they let him. A knock on the door stalls more conversation and Kal quickly sends a signal of 'no longer alone' to Silas and hangs up.
Jaster answers the door to Depa Billaba who smiles widely at them.
“Good morning gentlemen. I have news of the century.” Jaster raised an amused eyebrow.
“Oh? A thousand year storm is coming and we need to baton down the hatches?” Depa laughed and shook her head.
“No; something even bigger.” She's almost giddy. “Apparently no one knew that when Ben wasn't being his amazing self on missions or with the youngling he would haunt the Archives. He's apparently a giant Culture nerd and tries to research any planet he may even possibly one day go to. He's Jocasta's favorite; and hearing that you are his father and also hold interest; I'm to bring you to the Archives at your earliest convenience.”
Jaster felt himself go off line.
He actually felt his brain stop working for a full five seconds before a bright delighted laugh lit inside his chest and burst from him before he turned to Kal in utter childlike glee.
“Kal! I get to go into the Jetii Archives!” He shouts. “You think I can see texts from Tore Viszla himself? Or maybe one of the Jetii's versions of the start of the New Republic?” He stops at Kal's groan and looks up confused.
“We'll never get him out of this Temple now. We'll have to sent in a strike team just to get him to do paperwork!” He said in despair. Depa just laughed at it all.

Jocasta Nu was the possibly the scariest being Jaster Mereel has ever encountered. And he's been in a decade long War with Death Watch. Her stern face sized him up and down and despite he had two full heads on the older woman; he felt TINY.
“So; you are young Ben's Father.” She says primly. Her arms folded neatly at her midsection.
He nodded his head once.
“I do have the pleasure of claiming such.” Her eyes flash in a way that reminds him of his school teachers liking his answer on a verbal test.
“Had Yoda not gotten to the boy before I could; it would have been I that raised Ben to be the Archivist that would inspire generations. Be that as it may; you WILL refer to me as his Grandmaster. I may not have taught Mace fully but it was I that helped him through his grief and his trials after Master Cyslin Myr returned to the Force. If that boy is stepping up to be the Master Ben deserves he will do so with his entire Lineage at his back.”
She eyed him and Kal together.
“I will trust you; for now; with my younglings care Mandalorians Jaster Mereel and Kal Skirata. But if you harm either of their hearts so help me Force. There will not be a hole in this Galaxy you can hide from me.” Jaster sent a quick look to Kal who returned it; then back at Madam Nu.
“I honestly haven't been this afraid since Alor Skirata gave me the shovel talk after I asked Kal to date me twenty years ago.” Jaster admitted freely and a spark of pleasure lit Jocasta's eyes and she nodded.
“Good. You have brains. Come; being the Manda'lore I take you want to see something of Master Vizsla's? It just so happened Ben doesn't know I know he looked up your name a few years ago. I didn't know it was because of your connections; but hearing of a Mandalorian that wrote such a Codex I became interested in the only Mandalorian Jedi we have ever known...before now.” She accepted. “And I started translating Master Vizsla's Journal.”
“Does it say anything about a temple on Mandalore'yaim? I just know he always meant for the Ka'ra'tigaanur to have a place to practice.” Jocasta looked at him surprised before a delighted smile broke her stern features.
“Oh I thought I was the only who thought so. He does speak of his desire to help those on Manda'lore that do not have access to the help he did...”

Ben and Mace find Jaster and Jocasta bent over a Holo of ancient writing. Ben is pale, a little shaky, and the dark circles under his eyes speak of a nap being force on him if Mace has any say; but at the sight of ancient Text his face lights up.
“Oh Madam Nu! Is that a Daibendu text?” He asks eagerly and the two grownups look up with fondness.
“It is. This is a journal entry by Master Vizsla before he left for his duties as Manda'lore.”
“It's so fascinating Ben'ika. It speaks of his desire to keep his faith as a Jetii going forward and his hope to help those like himself as he takes on the task of helping his peoples.”
Mace watches with a smile before noticing Kal sitting at another desk watching visual Holo. He walked over and smirked at the latest Holo Drama.
“'The Galaxy of Our Lives.' I honestly didn't strike you as Soaps man.” He said with a small friendly chuckle in his voice. Kal's striking golden eyes flit up to Mace with a spark of amusement of his own.
“It's my little guilty pleasure I bond with Arla with. When we found her; it was after rescuing her from a Death Watch Camp. They were trying to brainwash her. The Healers had to be very careful who was allowed around her. I was one of the best fighters and had a connection to her brother. So I was one of her watchers. We started watching this stuff to make fun of it.”
He laughed. “Then once she was cleared from medical we'd have our own Ad/Buir Roasting Night. We'd order a Pizza and spend two hours roasting each character on the show.”
Mace laughed at that.
“I am a thespian myself. I love going to a live Play more than I love watching a Holo. Then on the way home I pick apart the Play from the writing to the acting. Depa once told me if I ever decided to stop being a Jedi I would make a famous Critic in the Theater Circuit.” He looked over at Ben who was smiling brighter than he had in days as he read a text carefully out loud.
“I'm hoping to take him to one soon. If...” he looked at Kal who smiled softly.
“Joint Custody Mace; remember. I think Ben would love a chance to just be a regular Ad for a night.”
“You could...join us; if you wish. I have a Box Seat in my name at the Grand Royal Theater. It was a Life Day gift from my Master on my Majority's Birthday.” Kal now looked sad.
“The one who died?” Mace looked confused before turning to look at Jocasta with realization.
“Oh dear. Did she threaten you? She threatened you.” He said and Kal laughed again.
“Oh yes. It was terrifying and I want to set her loose on ALL of our new recruits.” He cackled gleefully turning the others in the room to look at him; but he smiled unrepentant. Then he turned to Mace.
“How was the healers?”
“Tough. We meditated on Bandomeer together more than anything today. It was a lot to unpack. We all had things we had to give to the Force.”
“I don't understand that. You don't...not feel. I can tell that by just watching you.”
“No; when we give something to the Force it is a form of Meditating on it. We look at a situation; acknowledge what happened; how is made us feel. How it affected us. Why it affected us. We acknowledge all of it; and then we release it to the Force. Let it go as it were. The fear; the anger; it does nothing but harm us. So we release it from ourselves. Purge it in a sense.”
“Holding a grudge is like drinking poison and expecting the other guy to die.” Kal quotes the old saying with a nod. Mace nods back.
“Exactly. What happened to Ben happened. It was horrible; and he is allowed to feel how horrible it was; but releasing it into the Force lets him...relinquish the weight of it all from his shoulders. To know he doesn't carry his burdens alone.”
“Cin Vhetin. It is what we call a new start. Some represent a new journey they are embarking on in life by paining some of their armor white.” Mace nods.
“Right; exactly. We give our emotion to the force and start anew. Without the weight of the burden we let go of.”
“Master Mace.” Ben asked as he ran up to him with a bright smile. “Jasbuir said there might be TEMPLES on Mandalore'yaim. Can we look for them someday?” Mace smiled at his Padawan and ruffled his hair.
“If it is the will of the Force; we may even find something.” Ben smiled blindingly before he stilled and blushed as his stomach gave a loud grumble of protest at being empty. Mace's smile only grew.
“If your stomach doesn't eat us all. Come Padawan Mine. Let's hunt down something to eat.” Ben smiled shyly.
“I've always been curious about going on a real hunt.” He says quietly and Kal smirked at this.
“Ah Ben'ika. That is where I come in. As Stewjoni; I get to take you on your Oya'Karir on your sixtheenth birthday.”
“Oya'Karir...that means Hunt or Chase.” Ben said as they all started walking toward the exit of the Archives and Kal nodded in pride.
“It is. It's kind of Stewjon's version of a Verd'gotten; or a right of passage at least. You and I will go deep into the wilds of the Prime planet.” He said putting an arm around Ben's shoulders and waving his hands before him as if it would give the boy a glimpse of the wondrous planet they had both been born on. Ben's eyes widened in rapt attention.
“And for three days and three nights we become one with the land itself. We will hunt our pray for food and rely on nature to give us it's bounty. We will hunt big game and fish in the waters. We will ask the trees for warmth with a fire each night.” Ben imagined each of Kal's words with an imagination only a youngling can have and his eyes were bright with adventure.
“And...it'll be just the two of us?” Kal nodded with his own anticipation.
“Yes; it is a great tradition for those born on Stewjon Prime.
Ben suddenly stopped in the middle of the corridor they were walking along.
He looked around him suddenly holding his head as if dizzy.
“Ben?” Mace asked steadying him with a hand to his shoulder. Ben looked at him; blinked a few time; and as if in a trance; took of the suppressor bracelet. The change was instantaneous. Ben eyes clouded over almost taking on a glow of unearthly power and his breathing slowed to almost not being there.
“BEN!” Jaster started; but when he reached out an invisible wall seemed to stop him.
“One swallowed by darkness seeks his revenge lead by a stain of black on the Force they will seek destruction as is their way. Death comes on swift wing this day. Fire will be thrown into the meditation of water.” Ben said this in a dead voice; his but not; until he gasped for air and fear dilated his eyes. “Stop it!” He cried lunging forward; his knees buckling as he did so. He was saved from the harsh meeting with floor by Kal who was just one step ahead as Jaster reached for his blaster.
“Danger.” He said looking around.
“Meditation of water...the room of a thousand fountains!” Mace said looking to his right and the entire group seemed to fallow his line of sight.
“There's too many levels!” Ben said in horror. “We won't know which one.” Mace turned to him serious; before taking a deep breath and kneeling before his Padawan.
“Ben. The force gave you this vision. It spoke through you. You must ask it where we need to go.”
“But...what if I'm pulled. What if I can't tell you right...”
“I believe in you.” Jaster said leaning down and cupping his cheek. “You just need to believe in yourself.” Ben looked at him, then at Mace and then at Kal and Jango who all nodded at him. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes.
One second.
Two.
Three.
Ben's eyes snapped open on a gasp.
“I feel two places of darkness. One is in the lower levels. Where we keep the Power Reactor for the Temple. The other is on level fifty two of the Thousand Fountains.” Mace nodded and took out his Com at the same time Jaster did.
“Master Dralige! Gather all of the Temple Guards. We a have a threat in the Reactor Room. I repeat; we have a threat in the Reactor Room.”
“Viability?” Came a grizzled voice.
“The Force held my Padawan in it's grasp THROUGH a Suppressor Bracelet.” There was a colorful amount of swearing on the other end; but it stopped short.
“We'll be there in five.”
Jaster was speaking into his com as well.
“Calling all Mando'ade close to my location. We have a viable threat to public safety. Any who can fight with the Jetiise come to the Jetii'Yaim NOW we meet a threat at their Room of a Thousand Fountains.”
“Alor!” Came Silas' voice; serious and ready for a fight. “I and Arla were already on our way to see you and meet Ben'ika. We can be there in twenty minutes.”
“Jango! I got the grunts!” A voice shouted in the background and Jaster turned to see his son on his own Com. Good; Jango's team was young but skilled and was more interested in doing their duty than worrying about a centuries grudge they weren't around for.
“Make fast Vode!” Jango ordered and hung up.
“I need to be in the Room of a Thousand Fountains.” Ben said seriously. The grownups almost said no on instinct; but then stopped. Ben had been through much more than those his age should have. He knew how to defend himself. He knew what needed to be done and could admit his own limits.
“Then we part here Padawan. May the Force guide you.” Mace said with a bow of his head. Ben stood up and bowed back.
“And you Master. But between the two of us...I don't think it gives me much of a choice in the matter. I'm glad I have more of a buffer than my Ancestors.” Mace gave a quirk of his lips before nodding and going down the hall opposite where they were going. Ben turned to Jaster, Kal, and Jango.
“This way. I know a short cut.” He said and started running. He was fallowed without a word.
On the way Feemor popped out of one of the service corridors leading a group of Mandalorians in wildly different colored armor.
“Master Windu commed me. Said we'd be having visitors. Met these guys. What the situation?”
“A threat in the room of a Thousand fountains. And in the Reactor. Master Mace and Master Dralige are going there. WE are going to the Fountains.”
“We don't know the full situation; but be ready for anything!” Jango ordered his men.
“Oya!” They all yelled.
They reached the fifty-seventh level of the Fountains just in time for a loud BOOM to shake the very foundation of the Temple and the lift two floors above them started dropping at an alarming rate.
“NO!~!” Ben and Feemor shouted at the same time shoving their arms out toward the lift. The Force came to bare around them; through them; and shot out to the lift slowing it down and then stopping. Floating in mid air. Ben fell to his knees and Feemor didn't look much better.
“Hold Padawan!” Plo Koon shouted as he rushed through a door on the opposite side of the Lift. He reached out and sent his strength into the force steadying the lift.
“We have you!” A human Master shouted as he and his Padawan also reached out. Ben's face eased a little.
“Don't worry! We're here to help!” more and more Jedi shouted as they too arrived at different levels of the Fountain's rooms; all reaching up and steadying the Lift.
“Is any inside? Can we lower it together?” Kit Fisto called out from a level above them.
“No! I sense small younglings in there and I feel Master Koo'ra is reaching out to help!” Plo shouted.
“Kark; if the younglings panic they could throw one or all of us off.” A Togrutan Knight said; his face tight with concentration and sweat already dripping down his skin. Ben grunted as he forced his feet under him and looked to the Mandalorian to his right. He was the same height as Ben with green and blue armor. He eyed the Jet Pack on his back
“How good is your control on your Sentra.”
“Second best in my Squad. Jango's the best though.”
“Thank you for not grandstanding; but Jango is too heavy right now. I need you to take me over there.” He gestures to the lift;
“and then you and I are going to stand on that very small small platform still sticking to it. Then the grownups are going lift some of that railing.” He points to railing above them sticking out of the wall that had been pulled from the Lift. “And make a bridge; then you and I are going to carry the little ones across. Once Master Koo'ra is the last one we can lift him with the Force and have the levels below cleared to lower the Lift.”
“Are you mad! That is far too dangerous for a Padawan!” One of the Master called from a level below.
“Right now it's that I'm a Padawan that this will work. You Grownups are too heavy to add to the very shaky structure everyone is holding together. I'm not that heavy.”
“But I am.” The Mandalorian said shaking his head. “My armor is heavier than you think.” Ben frowned and nodded.
“Okay; then you are going to get me over there and come back and help take the Ade as I bring them across. It'll be slower; but safer.”
“This is NOT safe!” The same Master from before shouted.
“Trusting in the Force Ben Mereel is. Trust in him WE shall.” Master Yoda said as he hobbled in through the door on Ben's level. He looked at the boy in the eyes for a moment and nodded.
“Work together Jedi and Mandalorians. SAVE the younglings we shall.”
“Okay Kadran. (Flame of Justice) You're up.” Jango said to the Mandalorian with the blue armor. He nodded and turned to Ben holding out his arm.
“Your in charge Little General.” Ben wanted to scowl at that; but instead looked at the lift and back at Kadran. He nodded and walked over throwing his arms around his neck. Kadran then wrapped his own arms around Ben's waist and took off with his Jet Pack. Yoda nodded and reached out his clawed hand toward the railing taking the wait of it and ripping it from the wall with the help a few others. Once that was done he lead it the Lift's door and a ramp was made.
“Hold that!” Jaster said and walked over fiddling with his vambrace and suddenly a blow torch shot out of it. Jango, Kal, and another of Jango's men; this on in green and orange; ran over and started melting the rail to the edge of the metal grating on their level that the Lift had once stopped at.
“There. That should give it some stability. It's melded together.” He said loudly and nodded up at Kadran and Ben hovering just a little above them. With that Kadran slowly lowered Ben dropping him softly off on the lift's little step. Ben swayed; but caught himself. He nodded his thanks to Kadran who quickly joined the others on the other side. Ben then took his lightsaber from his belt and activated it; using it to slowly melt a hole he could fit through into the door.
He looked in. ducked back out.
“Six younglings all under the age of five. I can bring two at a time with the help of the Force.” Jaster nodded.
“We'll be waiting. Ben. Trust in your Force. It never lead your mother wrong. And Trust in your fellow Jedi. They've earned the trust back that you lost.” Ben nodded and looked at all the Jedi around him lending him their strength in the Force and their trust that he could save their children.
“I do. Trust them all.” He said seriously and ducked into the Lift. A few seconds later he stepped back out with a small Rodian on his back arms around his shoulders and legs around his waist like a backpack. And a bigger Besalisk child holding onto his front like a Koala. The bigger child gulped as he looked down whimpering in fear.
“Trust in the Force young one.” Ben said soothingly. “It won't let us fall.”
“I trust in the Force.” He said in with a little lisp. The Rodian on his back echoed it with a shaky voice but his arms stayed firm around Ben. Ben nodded and took his first step forward. He used the force to hold the children to him; and lifted his arms out to act as balance. His next step was shaky but firm. He kept his eyes straight ahead; meeting Jaster's and never looking away.
Around the middle of the ramp like rail the little Besalisk look down again and his fear spiked through the Force so quickly he couldn't drag it back and Ben and the Lift stumbled midair. The Masters and Knights and Padawans quickly shoring up their shields and getting a better hold on the structure. Jaster almost jumped off the grate to get to Ben; but Kal took his hand in his. The two watching and waiting for their turn to help.
Thankfully Ben righted himself.
“Shh. It's okay. It's going to be okay.”
“Hows you know?” The little Rodian asked with a whimper.
“Because I feel it in the Force. And I have faith in it and our brothers and sisters.” He said and took another step.
“Vode An!” Kadran said making the children look at him. “It means brothers all.”
“We are only as strong as our Vode make us.” Jango said taking off his Buy'ce and smiling at the children. “And none are as strong as those in the defense of their Aliit. We have you Ad'ika.” He promised.
“We won't let you fall!” Plo vowed seriously.
“Trust in us; you will.” Yoda said his eyes still closed. It took five more steps; but Ben hopped onto solid ground and let Kadran and Jango take the first two children.
“Great. Two down...four to go.” Ben said huffing for air.
“If we get through this; I'm going to have a TALK with the one responsible.” Kal snarled his fists clenched.
“Save it. Ben...you good?” Jaster asked his son who nodded.
“I'm good. Just...trust me.”
“Oh I do. Doesn't mean I have to like it.” Ben smiled sheepishly in understanding before Kadran rushed over and picked him back up to repeat the process. He wasn't about to make the kid walk both ways. The next trek across was a little easier since Master Koo'ra had gotten the idea to rip some of his robes and used them as blindfolds for the little ones. If they couldn't see what to be afraid of they didn't know to be afraid.
“Smart.” The Mandalorian in blue said impressed.
“Easy Rohlan. (Honorable Exile) Don't distract them.” Kadran said to his brother biting his lip. This was so nerve rattling it was worse than waiting for a battle. At least then he'd have been able to hit something for this disaster. Ben finally made it across a second time and helped the children down; and went back for the third crossing.
He hit a snag when a tiny human girl wouldn't let herself be picked up.
“No; I can't. Master Koo'ra will be alone. I'm scared with Ava. He'll be scared.” She said shaking her head and the little togruta beside her nodded her head in agreement despite the fear radiating from them. Master Koo'ra; a giant Wookie who had been taking care of Youngling for so long it was ingrained into his bones; was a little touched at the worry from one of his charges; but still not about to let a youngling be put in danger because of him.
“I will be right behind you.” He roared patting her one the head. “We will be together again soon.” The little girl didn't look convinced; but allowed herself to blindfolded and lifted into Ben's arms while the other youngling was put on his back.
“You're doing great Padawan. I believe in you.” Koo'ra roared proudly and Ben nodded a little Choked up. Master Koo'ra had helped raise him as well. He had had many a hugs from the Wookie after a bad night of visions.
“I won't fail Master.” He promised and he felt the soothing fondness in the Force. Words weren't needed. He left with the children and didn't look back. That would just put them all in danger. He had to trust all would be well. He took one step after another; but this was his third time carrying children on both his back and front and he had used a lot of energy helping catch the lift. He was getting tired and a little dizzy.
Suddenly a wave of DARK exploded beneath him causing him and the children to scream and his foot slipped sending him and his charges over the edge. He used the Force to keep the children all but glued to him and just managed to catch the rail with his hands.
“BEN!” Jaster screamed from the edge of the grating.
“I got it!” Ben shouted; but his voice was weak. He let out a few huffs of breath.
“But I can't pull us up!”
“I'm coming Ben. Just hold on!” Jaster demanded; but Jango took his shoulder firmly.
“Buir; you know you can't handle a Sentra. Not since your injury gave you Vertigo. I'll get him. Don't worry.” He said sternly earning a proud and worried nod from his Buir; and took Kadran's jet pack; put it on; and stepped off the platform. He let himself drop before activating it and then carefully moved up to be level with Ben. He reached his longer arms around all three children and held as firmly as he dared.
“I have them.” Ben said in a strained voice. “But not for long.”
“I have you.” Jango vowed and Ben let go. The Manda'lore wasted no time in activating the jet pack again; but he was too scared to go back to the platform he had jumped from with his burden. Instead he made a controlled fall two levels down going sideways until he was able to just tip his feet and hook his legs over the railing of an intact platform. He then all but dumped Ben onto solid ground in his haste to get the children to safety but it worked.
All four beings landed in a heap on the ground; Jaster having turned to land on his back and cradle the other three.
“Their safe!” Master Adi Galia said from beside Jango as he looked up to see her looking at him while still helping support the Lift.
“What about Master Koo'ra?” Ben asked in a croaky shaky voice. He was so exhausted his eyes were drooping.
“We've got him Padawan.” Adi said with a kind smile. “As a Master he's able to hold himself aloft with the Force; so all we need to do is guide him. We couldn't do that with the children for risk that they wouldn't be able to synchronize with him.” She said nodding her head upwards. Ben looked up just in time to the Wookie Jedi Master sitting cross legged in mid air being floated across the space to the platform across from him. Ben could see why it wouldn't have worked with the younglings. That type of concentration would have been impossible for them. A few seconds later. Everyone was safe. A few seconds after that...Ben's world went black.

Ben groaned as he forced gritty eyes to open only to be assaulted by bright harsh light. He whimpered not wanting to try that again; but soft careful fingers started running through his hair. It felt nice. He leaned into the touch.
“Ben'ika? You with me?” A deep voice asked making him peak out into the world again. Jaster's face swam into view and he blinked.
“Wh m I?” He tried to ask; but his tongue was thick in his mouth and his lips numb to his movements. A whoosh of air like a breath long held sounded and Jaster was suddenly in Ben's space again; this time tapping their foreheads together.
“My reckless son.” He said almost choking on his words from the amount of emotion clogging up his throat. “My brave, amazing, reckless son. You shaved at least ten years off of my life.” Ben was confused. He frowned at the information.
“Sry...” He tried then blinked a few time. “w...h...” He tried clearing his throat. “Wha...”
Oh almost a whole word; an improvement....
“Shh. Udessii little one. All is well. Do you remember what happened? Just shake or nod your head.” After giving it some honest thought Ben shook his head once.
“There was a threat to the Temple. You had a vision even though you had on your suppression bracelet. We stopped it; but you overexerted yourself.”
Images flashed through Ben's mind like a slideshow.
An explosion.
The feel of his mind stretching and straining to catch something...big.
The terror feeding into him. Not his own...
A wave of darkness that sent ice dancing down his spine.
His breath caught as he jolted on the bed; his limbs trying to catch himself even as there was nothing to flinch away from. His hand latched onto another's; and his fingers dug into the skin he felt there. He whimpered and his breath caught half between a scream and cry of panic.
“The lift. The younglings. Master...”
“Shh. It's okay. Everyone made it out safely.” Jaster said not moving his hand from his son's tight grip. “No one was hurt beyond a few scratches and bruises and possibly a new and very understandable phobia of heights.”
“Might have one myself.” Ben muttered closing his eyes to stop the overhead lights from glaring so harshly at him. He frowned in thought.
“When I fell...I...there was a moment...it was like everything dark in the Force was just...exploding as one back into the light. Like...like a lake's wave overflowing a piece of a sea only to then be absorbed by the larger sea.”
“An apt description Padawan.” Mace said as he walked through the door to Ben's room with a relieved look in his eyes at seeing the boy awake. He was accompanied by Jango and Feemor.
“What was it.”
“A matter for the Council young one. Your only responsibility is to be rest. To ease your mind; know that what you felt is no more.” Ben nodded once in understanding before a small squeal was heard and Ben blinked as he was pounced on...by a very familiar youngling.
“What the...Rava...how...what...where did you...you're supposed to be on Melida/Daan!” The little boy giggled; his hair that Ben had only ever seen greasy and lank from being unable to clean the grime of their world off him, was now a rich chocolate brown and his skin was three times lighter than Ben remembered.
“Ben, Ben, Ben!” The child chanted clapping his hands with each word.
“How are you HERE? Rava...where's Reva? Where's...”
“Ra Ra!” came a scream as a female version of the boy on Ben's lap rushed in; her cheeks puffed up in annoyance and her brown hair braided in little tails at both sides of her head.
“No leave me behind!” She scolded stomping her foot imperiously and Ben could only blink.
“Reva?” His voice was shaky as if his couldn't believe what his eyes were showing him.
The girl's eyes lit up and she jumped up and down in glee.
“Ben! Ben's awake; Ben's awake!” She sang as she jumped and then ran to leap onto the bed beside her twin. “We came to see you but you were asleep and the good Elders said we couldn't wake you cause you were tired and I understood cause I don't like to miss my naps; but I wanted to see you. Why did you sleep so looong?” She wined at the end with a little huff and Ben could only blink.
“Good Elders?” Was all that Ben could process. Reva nodded as Rava started playing with Ben's hair. Ever since he had taught the little boy to braid he braided everything he could get his hands on.
“Uh huh. They came to Melida/Daan and they dress like droids; but they're not; and they said that we had no way to fix our world even though we were smart and strong enough to try; but we shouldn't. And then they said we could come with them; and Nield said he'd never trust an outsider again after you were stolen from us...” She took a deep breath and Reva took over.
“But the shiny people were all 'oh we found Ben and we'll take you to him and we'll all be together again'; and no one will hurt us and we won't have to fight EVERY AGAIN!”
Then in true twin form Rava started again.
“Well; the nicest one said he'd teach us to; just to be safe. Cerasi wasn't happy about that; but Nield gave him his creepy smile. You know the one...'
“I am NOT creepy.” Came a deep voice and Nield of the Young walked through the door making Ben's jaw drop. When Cerasi popped her head through the door Ben gave up and started sobbing at the sight before him.
“Ah kark; I told you idiots not to overwhelm him!” Cerasi said as she rushed forward hopping up onto the bed to run her fingers through Ben's hair soothingly.
“US?! I didn't do anything.” Nield said; but he too rushed over and took Ben's hand as the boy sobbed.
“Popping up like ghosts isn't overwhelming?” Cerasi asked with a raised eyebrow and Ben finally forced himself to sit up and threw himself into the older girl's lap clutching at her shirt for dear life. She smiled sadly and held on right back.
“I don't know what's going on but don't leave. I'm sorry I said I wanted to go with Jinn. I didn't mean it. Don't hate me...” He sobbed into Cerasi's shoulder as she slowly rocked them back and forth.
“Shh. We could never hate our Brother Ben. You're one of us silly. Now and forever.”
“We knew you were lying Ben. You can't lie for shit.” Nield said with a roll of his eye even as he too hopped up onto the bed and gathered the other boy into his arms.
“We just didn't know we could refuse the Jedi.” Cerasi said guilty.
“I am so sorry for such pain one of our Order has caused you.” Mace said stepping up and bowing to the four Young that sat on Ben's bed. It was a little sad all of them could sit comfortably in a hospital bed together; but the grownup were all vowing silently to make sure the children only had the best care going forward. Nield looked up at Mace and glared before seeming to deflate and sighed.
“I Hate Jinn for taking one of or own away from us. But Ben talked about the Jedi a lot while we were together. He talked about being taken care of in Creche by real Grown Ups that cared. And how you were good people. I never believed him; but his faith had to come from...somewhere.” He shrugs like the moody teenager he is. He wasn't ready to forgive the Jedi for what had happened to Ben; but now that he had the boy back in his sight he could keep his mouth shut if it kept his people safe. And Ben was one of his.
“Understandable. Now; tell me; where DID yo come from? I was under the impression the Young was staying on a Mandalorian ship that had gone to collect you.” Mace said.
“Well; we were; but one of the Mando's that came for us really fell for Reva and Rava and said some funny language and that it meant he was their dad now.”
“Someone said the Gai Bal Manda? Who? That is a joyous occasion.” Jaster asked tilting his head.
“Buir!” A blond woman said as she stormed into Ben's sick room and huffed annoyed. “Do you know what your SON has done?”
“Which one?” came the dry tone and Ben gave him a mock glare in offense.
“JANGO. That idiot brother of mine said the Riduurok in front of JETII!” Jaster frowned now turning to his oldest child and only daughter.
“What? I thought they were waiting until Myles' 20th birthday.”
“Apparently he found a couple of ik'aad and adopted them and showed up with one on each hip and Jango practically pounced on the di'kut. AH! THERE YOU ARE!” She said in relief as she rushed over and picked up the twins who giggled in her arms. “I was worried sick. Jango will NEVER lit me babysit you two if you run off every time I do.”
“We wanted to see Ben!” Reva said happily and the blond looked up and smiled.
“AH! My newest Vod'ika. Hi. I'm you're eldest sibling Arla. Also the cool one.” She said hitching the twins higher so she could rest her hip against Ben's bed.
“Wait; back up. They said the Riduurok!? Without me?!” Jaster said utterly offended and Arla turned to him with a frown before looking down at the children in her arm.
“I mean...he did just watch the love of his life walk through the door with tiny ik'aad and Myles was like; I'm a Buir and I love them and nothing will ever hurt them again and Jango just...started saying the vows.” Jaster blinked a few times before bursting out into laughter.
“That's my son.” He said when he finally had enough air to speak. He turned and smiled softly at the children before him and reached out and trailed his finger over their soft cheeks.
“I am your Ba'buir. Your Grandfather. You are safe my children. You are with Aliit. Family.” He turned to Ben and his eyes grew misty. “And to think. None of this would have happened without your Ba'vodu Ben.” Ben turned so red he had to hid his face in Cerasi's neck again in embarrassment; but everyone just laughed.
Mace watched this all with a smile in his eyes.

Four weeks later:
The general consensus was that Ben had to be at the Dedication Ceremony at the reopened Foundling Home. Which meant dressed to impress: why? Because Ben and the Jedi had saved the Foundling Home from Death Watch; and Jaster and Mace wanted to make it slightly publicized that Ben was a Jedi that had found a father in a Mandalorian; but aslo to hide HOW he had found a Mandalorian parent...
All of which meant that now Ben was dressed in his finest set of dress robes, his hair brushed, and Mace's braid dangling next to his right ear. He looked in the mirror again and sighed. He was still too skinny; the dark circles under his eyes were still too dark for his liking; and he REALLY hated public events. He groaned and put his head in his hands. Quin rolled his eyes from where he was standing beside him and helping him apply some foundation to hide the bruises under his eyes.
“Relax. I'm a professional.” Quinlan said with chuckle. Stormy green eyes looked at him skeptically and he let off a mock offended huff. “I'll have you know that I made myself look so naturally pail on a mission I was thought of as if I was from Naboo.” Skepticism slowly gave way to impressed and Quinlan nodded in satisfaction. He was naturally very dark tan skinned; that had taken some serious work.
“I just don't understand why WE have to go all dressed up.” Ben muttered and felt a little better that Quinlan was in the same boat as him. His dress robes spotless and his usual bird's nest hair was brushed and styled neatly.
“I think it's punishment for our sneaking out. They never got around to that with all the Mandalorians and the attack and the explosions and then you were kind of held captive by the little ones for the last four weeks.”
“I wasn't held captive Quin. Don't be so dramatic.”
“The Dragon clan all started crying en mass the second you said you couldn't sleep with them for the third night in a row.” Quinlan deadpanned. “And that was the Jedi younglings. Don't get me started on the absolute TANTRUM the Young made when you had to come back to the Temple to take some class tests.”
“It wasn't a tantrum.” Ben muttered in offense for his little ones he had helped protect. Quinlan raised an eyebrow.
“Your right. It was more of a Mutiny and I think I clocked a few knives in there as well.” Pride lit up Ben's eyes.
“That was Rizzo. Isn't she adorable. Kid keeps at least twelve knives hidden on her at all times. Rod usually makes sure she's using them responsibly.”
“Is it a you thing or a Mandalorian thing that gets gooey over tiny feral murder children so easily.”
“Oh; definitely a Mandalorian thing.” Jango said as he walked in pinning his red cape to his Chest Plate as he walked by with Reva curled around his left leg and Rava around his right giggling with each step. Jango walking around with little effort caused by the weight on each leg. It was amusing. Myles walked around the corner from the bedroom they had been sharing to get ready in as well. His long lavender hair was down and curled along on shoulder and his golden facial tattoos set off his light blue skin perfectly.
He looked up and smiled at his Riduur and his Ade.
“And what's this? Are you holding Janbuir captive or is he holding you captive?” He asked with a fond tone and the little twins giggled.
“We holding him captive Mybuir.” Reva said delightedly.
“Yes; very captured. Could be the end of my reign as Verd'be'alor.” Jango said with such a happy smile and fond eyes looking down at the kids that Myles visibly melted. Quinlan groaned.
“Seriously. How has us Jedi been so scared of you lot for centuries when you're all a bunch of goo balls for kids. It's all oh beware the Mandalorians! They'll kill you with laser eyes...”
“Laser eyes? Where did that one come from?” Jango asked curiously and Ben was the one that rolled his eyes.
“Scary story night. The older initiates that hangs out with Padawans come by some very strange stories. Quin; you said I'd look normal; not painted up like a doll.” He whined the last part jerking away from his friend who huffed and brought him closer.
“Trust the process. I need to blend stuff in to get the right color. You're very Pale; and if you'd get some kriffing rest; you wouldn't need to hide it with makeup.”
“I've been 'resting' for four weeks. Master Che almost locked me up in the Halls of Healing!”
“And before that you were putting your life at risk every day for two years. The payment came due Ben. You have to suffer your own consequences.” Quinlan sniped back.
“Hypocrite!” Ben shouted. “Bant had to physically sit on you to get you looked at after that mission to Nal Hutta.”
“What were you doing on that slime ball of a planet?” Jango asked curiously and Quinlan shrugged.
“Infiltration mission for my Force Suppression test. I have to master it before Master will take me on really big missions.”
“Right; you're going into the Shadows? That's your version of Supercommandos right?” Myles said with and impressed eyebrow raised.
“Yep!” Quinlan said proudly and used his finger to rub under Ben's eye and nodded turning the boy back to the mirror. “Well?” Ben eyed himself carefully and sighed in relief. The dark circles were gone and he even had a healthier glow to his skin.
“Thank Quin. I didn't want to go with Jasbuir and Kalbuir and Master Mace looking like the living dead.”
“Yeah; being pronounced the Son of the Manda'lore and still a Padawan of the Order is going to be big. Don't want them to think it's a ploy for Padawan Trafficking.”
“Jango! You're squad's here to escort you.” Jaster's voice came from the front room and Jango finished attaching his cape and smirked down at his Ade. He had fallen head over heals for the children his new Riduur had taken in. they were only five and luckily hadn't learned what ik'aad meant so he was able to call them his babies a little longer.
They looked up at him with mischievous eyes pointedly refusing to let go. He laughed and started walking to the front enjoying the squealing about his escaping. His men were gathered in the front room greeting Jaster and Kal and formally introducing themselves to Mace who bowed to them in turn.
“It is a pleasure...” He stopped and though his facial expression didn't change' Mace's eyes seemed to glitter at spotting Jango's predicament as he and the others came out of the hallway leading to the bedrooms.
“Ah; Jango. I see you have an addition to your armor. Quite...festive.” He said making Ben and the children start giggling and Quinlan hide his own amusement in Ben's neck.
“Yes; the Cape is tradition for ceremonies. I chose red since I am Buir's oldest son. Arla should show up with a black cape. And of course Jaster's green for his duty as the Manda'lore.
“Do...I need one?” Ben asked wide eyed. He doubted he could pull off a cape with his Jedi robes.”
“Nah. You still have to go before the Goran to receive your first set of armor.” Jaster said walking in from the kitchen his armor shining and his cloak swaying as he moved.
“So; we going first to scout or not?” One of the guests asked and the others groaned.
“Rohlan. You are SO impatient.” His brother sighed in a huff.” Ben turned to them recognizing the two that had helped him rescue the youngling.
“Ah; you two!” He said smiling widely. “I've been wanting to thank you for helping me and the younglings.” The two snorted and shook their head almost in in time.
“Nyec Verd'alor. No debt. To protect the young is the way.” All the Mandalorians in the room tapped their Karta on the their armor.
“This is the way.” They said together.
“Anyway; I'm Rohlan; this is my Vod'ika Kadran.” Ben blinked at the two.
“Honorable Exile and Flame of Justice?” He asked confused and Rohlan tilted his head back in laughter both taking off their Buy'ce together and showing they were actually twins.
“Our Hut'uun Dar'buir was Kyr'stad. Our true Buir was his force wife. When she escaped she took us with her and we changed our names. I am Rohlan; for I gained my honor; to myself at least; when I disowned HIM an joined the Ha'aat Mando'ade. Jaster himself has been teaching me the Codex.”
“And I am Kadran.” His brother said happily. “Where our past is death and destruction I will now live to blaze a trail of Justice in my wake.” Ben's eyes sparkled in awe at their stories and Jango reached over and jabbed both Mando'ade on their shoulder plates.
“Hay; stop trying to win over my Vod'ika. Get your own.”
“We did.” Rohlan said laughing. “Buir's been helping with the construction on the Foundling house and has fallen for this copikla little girl named Kora. She said the Gai Bal Manda last night. We're taking her out for milkshakes after the dedication ceremony today.”
“Aw. That's good. I'm happy for your Buir. I know how amazing it is to find Ade that suit you so well.” Myles said as he walked over and picked Rava up into his arms to cuddle making the boy giggle and Reva finally got off of Jango's leg to demand cuddles of her own. He happily complied.
“Rara and me are going too; right?” Reva asked.
“Of course. You're standing with My'buire and me while your Ori'vod will be with Jas'buire and Jetii'alor Mace.” Kadran frowned confused.
"Ori'vod? But if both you and Ben'ika are Jaster's Ade; wouldn't he be their Ba'vadu?”
“Eh.” Ben said walking over to ruffle Rava's hair. “I was inducted into the Young when I chose to stay with them over returning with Jinn. All of the Young are brothers and sisters. Even though they're now my nice and nephew; we will always be a part of the Young; and so; we will always be brothers and sisters.”
“Yes; like we in Jango's squad will always be Verde.” Rohlan said nodding. “Anyway; let's head out. We still have to coordinate with Silas about security before Manda'lore Mereel and Rid'alore Skirata show up to introduce their newest Ad.” They all put on their Buy'ce and filed out of the door. Mace walked over and looked at Ben's face.
“Is that makeup?” He asked.
“It to hide the circles.” Ben explained. “I'm still really...tired I guess from using so much energy in the Force when I was already Force Exhausted.” Mace nodded worry still in his eyes.
“Tug on our bond if you need an excuse to leave early. I don't want to tire you out too much.”
“I'm master Master. Promise. I just want to look my best is all.”
“And you do.” Mace said in pride. “But when Jaster told me about the capes I went to the Quartermaster and got this. It's not quite the same; but I want this show we are both honoring the Jedi culture as well as the Mandalorian culture.” He said walked over to the couch and picked up some folded fabric in a bright orange. He turned and let it unfold into a long cloak. The cut was traditional for a Jedi; but the color...
“A zest for life?” Ben asked and Mace's smile softened.
“You told me your mother's colors were black, green, and orange. I think she would have loved the life you are starting with your fathers and still keeping your connection to the Force.”
Ben's eyes widened and teared up as he took the cloak; holding it to his chest for a second. Jaster put a hand on Mace's shoulder in thanks while Kal didn't outwardly show any emotion; but like with Mace; his eyes showed his pride shining through.
Ben quickly put the cloak on and looked up.
“Well?” He asked and Mace nodded.
“You look perfect Padawan.” He assured. Ben smiled brightly.

The Foundling Home was actually a two story apartment building that had been converted into a home by the owner when they converted it. It had been serviceable. Cared for. Now; in the wake of what could have been easily a disaster it was fresh and redone. In honor of the new start the home was getting it had been painted a bright snow white. But with accents of, greens, blues, and oranges.
Their duty to the children and their reliability to put everything they have in matching the child with a perfect Buir or raising the child themselves and teaching them the ways of Mandalore'yaim; and of course their desire to teach their children to have a Zest for life.
Jaster looked at the building and nodded in satisfaction. Even though he had been too busy with Ben and helping the Jetii clean up after their own attack he had kept up to date on the Home and had been spending a lot of his savings on the repaired. Kal had found out; rolled his eyes; and gotten their treasurer to help foot the bill.
“It's good.” Jaster said to the Head of the Home. A human male with dyed purple hair and earrings lining both his ears. He was young; only in his mid twenties; but his Buir had been the original head of the home and had given his life to protect the children under his care the day of the attack.
“I just hope Buire is Marching ahead in pride and not worrying about us.” He said solemnly. Jaster turned and latched a hand onto the younger man's shoulder.
“Oh he is worrying; all Buire worry for the Ade. It is the way of things. But his pride is easing his soul. That you are continuing his work will make him so proud.” The man's eyes misted over a little but he quickly took a deep shaky breath and compose himself.
Just in time too as a little boy rushed up and tugged on his hand.
“Buir Roda; I can't get Vera to keep her shoes on.” He whined and the Roda threw his head back and laughed.
“Ah; all is well with my younglings.” He said happily. “Come on Kit. Let's go wrangle your Vod'ika into looking presentable. At least for a couple of hours...hopefully.” he added as he took the boy's hand and the two walked back into the home. Jaster just chuckled as he looked at his own ade.
Jango was directing his Grunts to and fro with the security present to have the best protective spots in the street. Arla was showing visiting press and...Jaster looked closer and resisted rolling his eyes; dignitaries from the Senate. Then his eyes widened. The Chancellor himself had arrived. Jaster had of course sent an invite to the man; but he had doubted the leader of the Galactic Republic would show up. But Mace had said Valorum was honorable...for a politician anyway.
Then he spotted and Ben and his face melted.
The boy was in the little courtyard that separated the home from the rest of the street. He had a piece of cloth around his eyes and was trying to catch one of the many little ones that were running around him. He was obviously cheating a little with his Force because he was always just this side of not catching them. The children were screeching and laughing at being so clever to get away after such a close call.
“We may have to preform an extraction detail when this is over. Those kids are not going to want to give him back.” Kal said with amusement lighting up his voice even through his voice coder. Jaster snorted.
“I'll ransom him back with some sweets.” He said amused himself. “He's good with them.”
“He has a huge soft spot for Ade. I think; if he had stayed with the Jetii he might have been; what do they call them again? Creche Masters?”
“Yes; and he would have made and amazing one.” Mace said as he walked up his eyes watching Ben with pride. “I feel the Force lighting up with Joy at the path we are helping him chose. A darkness reseeding from the universe; but I could also see many other paths he could have taken and shined in.”
“Yeah; about that lighting up stuff.” Kal said turning to Mace. “What about that thing you killed the day of the bombing?”
“Xanatos had shown up looking to die. His mind was a mess of hate and anger and his reasoning was shot to kark. The one leading him...the one we found trying to sneak into the archives in the commotion...he was something else. Something darker. Master Koon and Master Dooku believe it was a Sith.”
“A Dar'Jetii? I thought you lot killed them off a millennia ago.” Jaster said in shock. Mace nodded.
“Yes; we believed that as well. But that level of darkness...and the mastery behind it...I will not look at a Krayte Dragon in the mouth and call it a lizard.” Jaster nodded.

“Wise caution. But you know what that means.” Mace nodded.
“Yes. Where one is; there will always be a second. The question is. Was what we killed the Master? Or the Apprentice.”
“What does your Force Osik tell you?” Kal asked curiously. Mace sent him an amused side glace at the 'osik' but then sighed.
“It is only really advising caution. We cannot just go out and try and find the other one. They will be on alert. Ready for us. Master Dralige is already sending out Shadows to put out feelers. Feemor wanted to be here today; but he felt it more prudent to get his contacts on this sooner rather than later.” Jaster nodded at this.
“Better to ere on the side side of caution than be caught with your weapon out of your hand.” Kal said crossing his arms.
“Yes; and he can always come visit. All of your Aliit are welcome in our home Mace.” Jaster said seriously and Mace's eyes softened.
“I know. And I thank you. If there is one thing I feel the Force is telling me. It is that Ben will need all of his family beside him. But that is a thing for all of us. Is it not?”
“Aliit make us strong.” Kal said nodding and looking at his children.
“Buir. My team is ready.” Jango said as he walked up. Jaster turned and smiled at his son and nodded.
“Then go gather your Vode and we'll start getting things started.” He paused and looked amused at the gaggle of children all vying for Ben's attention. “If you can rescue your Vod'ika from his captures.” Jango looked over an laughed at the sight.
“I think I'd have an easier time preparing for a hunting party; but I'll try.” He said and wandered off. Jaster watched him go and then looked at the change around him. Jedi and Mandalorians working together. Mandalorians holding a FOUNDLING Ceremony on Courascant. He smirked. The future sure looked like a Topsy Turvy thing. His smile turned mischievous under his helmet.
That was just how he liked things.
And it was all Ben's doing. For having the courage to call a stranger and keep a promise. He closed his eyes for a second.
“Thank you Amara. Thank you for giving me such a gift. And for keeping him safe until I could get to him. You are gone; but I remember you; so you are eternal. My love.” He said and then went to try and help ransom his youngest son back to him from the adoring Ade around him. The laughter around them a song he intended to keep going forever.