Shadow Academy

Then, as if conjured by Peckhum's words, a holoprojector hummed to life. A tiny image of Zekk resolved itself in the air just above the message pod. Jaina bit down hard on her lip again as the tiny glowing form began to speak. "I'm doing this against the better judgment of my teachers here," Zekk said, "so I'll make this message brief."

"Peckhum, my friend, here's the central multitasking unit I promised you. You always expected only the best fom me, and I always gave it. This must be hard for you, but I want you to know that no one has kidnapped me or brainwashed me.

"To Jacen and" -the tiny holographic image hesitated- "and Jaina, it turns out I do have Jedi potential after all. I'm going to make more out of myself than anyone imagined I could be. We were good friends, and I'd never want to hurt you. Sorry I messed up your mother's diplomatic banquet - but that's one reason I'm doing this. I have a chance to become something better - a chance I was never given by anyone in the New Republic."

Jaina groaned and shut her eyes, but the image continued to speak.

"I know this is something you wouldn't approve of, but I'm doing it for myself. If I ever come back, I'll be someone you can all be proud of.

"Don't worry, Peckhum, I'll never let you down. You've been my truest friend, and if there's any way I can come back to you, I will."

When Jaina opened her eyes again, the tiny image had faded into sparkles. But she wouldn't have been able to see it anyway through her tears. (208-10)

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