[Junior Jedi Knights] - 01(26)

“You know the answer to that,” the Jedi Master said softly.

“The children Tahiri and I saw and heard inside the globe,” Anakin whispered. “The children will be lost. But what children? Who are they, and how can Tahiri and I possibly save them?”

Ikrit shook his head. “I grow impatient with you, young Anakin. I would not have led you and Tahiri to the Palace of the Woolamander if you did not have the power to understand and break the curse. That means you also have the power to save the children. The only question I have for you is this: Will you answer the call? Will you attempt to break the curse and save the children?”

Anakin met Ikrit’s large eyes. He knew that he had to talk to Tahiri about this. He had to tell her everything Ikrit had said to him. They would make this decision together-as a team. But Anakin already knew what that decision would be: He and Tahiri would help. What else could they do? He knew that it would take all of their combined strength and the power of the Force to solve the mystery of the golden globe and save those trapped inside its crystal.

Anakin heard Luke Skywalker’s words from that first school assembly.

“The Jedi Code: A Jedi’s promise must be the most serious, the deepest of his or her life. A Jedi seeks not adventure or excitement, for a Jedi is passive, calm, and at peace. A Jedi knows that anger, fear, and aggression lead to the dark side. A Jedi uses the Force for knowledge and defense, never for attack. There is no `try,’ only `do.’ Believe and you succeed. Above all else, know that control of the Force comes only from concentration and training.”

Yes, there could be no other decision but to work as a team with Tahiri and break the curse, Anakin thought.

“Then may the Force be with you and Tahiri, young Anakin,” Ikrit said softly. “For you have chosen a difficult path.”