Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

TO: \\RepublicSpace\\Coruscant\\JediTemple \\Room 4300B\\Jinn,Master\\

\\24,983\\Sixth Month\\

FROM: \\RimSpace\\SenateConsularShip-D'Ka \\Kenobi,Knight\\

Greetings my Master,

Since you will never see this letter, I feel free to say what I wish. Things that you never see in our regular transmissions, which tend to amount on my part to asking about the weather (which never changes) and how Ani is doing. I've ached to let that vaunted Jedi control to slip away and bare my heart. It's been almost a year since I saw you last. Barely recovered from the fight on Naboo, my trials, and my knighting.

Naboo. The name still makes me flinch after all this time. You nearly died. Thank the Force I was strong enough to bring you back to health. It was worth being harassed by the Healers for draining myself into unconsciousness, for what is my life without yours?

We were both worn, tired, ill. I think perhaps in the two days on Coruscant after my knighting I saw you twice, both times in the company of others. I can only presume that my things were stuffed in a box or put in whatever room was set aside for me, since I'm told that Anakin is staying in your rooms with you. Even here on the Rim I cannot escape the Temple gossip. We have our own unofficial communications out here among the younger knights, though I don't doubt that you used it yourself long ago. Every time I meet up with another Jedi and we exchange news I can't help but to ask about you. And what I hear just reminds me that I have so little of your life in my own now. 'Did you know that your old master is on the Council?' 'I heard your master has a new padawan.' 'Replaced already, eh Kenobi?'

It's the last that hurts the most I think. I do not begrudge the boy anything. To have the love and affection that shone on me alone for years, that must be wondrous to him. I would share that with anyone, gladly. It's not having the right to it for myself that pains me, when I try to sleep at night. I wish--

**Timestamp reflects eight days elapsed.

Well, Master, that was an ugly bit of work that drew me away from this letter for a bit. Unrest is growing out here and there are rumors that the Sith are back. Rumors among the common folk and not just the Jedi. Rumors of an army.

But perhaps this news will please you in all the gloom and doom, that your third padawan was given the rank of General a few months back. Seems that the troops didn't quite know what to do with a Jedi Knight, that they needed a rank to understand, to take orders from. So, for now I have shed the brown robe that is a hallmark of being a Jedi and wear a modified Officer's jacket over my tunic.

I miss my robe. It was something I could catch sight of and be reminded of you. I followed that swirl of brown fabric for years and now it is nowhere in sight. I know that the universe changes and grows, but it doesn't make me yearn for you any less.

Somehow I doubt the crew would have convinced you to take on rank and modify a uniform thousands of years old. Most of the bridge crew knows I despise the tight fitting jacket that makes my sleeves bind close to my body and restrict my movement. I take it off at every opportunity and have been tempted to lose the damn thing. Then something happens among the ship crew, or when we are down on a planet inspecting a facility and I get answers because of some silly bit of braid on my collar. Though word of the Jedi General has begun to spread; perhaps I will be able to shed it soon.

**Timestamp reflects three days elapsed.

The rank is official now, confirmed by the Chancellor and the Council. Oh, I forgot for a moment, you would know that already, being on the Council. I didn't see you accept the seat, hear you tell it to me yourself, so it doesn't seem quite real. For years nothing happened in our lives that the other didn't know about almost immediately. Well, almost nothing.

My love for you grew and changed over the years. Would you believe I was about to ask you to pairbond with me when we were sent to Naboo? Probably not. Or worse yet, you would have told me no. And that would have been the end of me.

"You did what!?" The General looked infuriated and shocked at the same time.

"I sent the message. It looked days old and we should have sent it out a long time ago, General Kenobi. I'm so sorry I missed it." Communications Ensign Rilka was in over her head and knew it. The Jedi had been onboard for nearly a standard year and this was the first time she had seen him lose his composure. Wounded, under attack, facing down diplomats, eating live k'Tha worms -nothing had upset the man. Oh, he smiled occasionally, played a decent game of sabbac, good conversationalist, and spent hours training and meditating. But angry --no.

"It was in my personal message folder."

"Well, yes." Ooops. Caught snooping. Everyone figured he had someone back on Coruscant, and the Jedi were surrounded with such mystery anyway...

"How long ago? Is there any way to intercept it?" The man's tone was iron and reminded her just why he'd been given this assignment, and that rank.

"Six hours." Far too late to stop it. It had been relayed already, in fact had probably been read by whoever that Master Jinn person was.

Kenobi turned away, and she could hear faint cursing in Huttese. Taking off the jacket that everyone knew he hated, he threw it over the chair at his station and stalked away. "I'm going to go exercise. When I come back I'm modifying the computer code to prevent any more mistakes."

"Yes, sir."

"No. Not sir. It's Jedi Kenobi and it's about time everyone here figured that out."

Interlude

Rilka watched as the mail came in over the sat-link. Flags had been set by her and the computer to make sure high priority messages wouldn't be missed in the flood of communication that routinely came through the channel set. Then her personal flagging went off. With a grin that meant trouble to anyone that knew her she began scrolling through the list of 'interesting stuff'. She couldn't look at the mail itself but the headers were open to anyone. Encryption was standard throughout the fleet.

Two letters for Crewman Tellis…both of his wives this time. Idly she wondered if they knew about each other yet. An order from the Quartermaster to the Captain, which meant that the good wine was in the next supply run. And something flagged personal for Kenobi from Jinn. Aha, the mysterious man writes back after the lovelorn letter is received. Well, she thought it was a love letter. It certainly wasn't a polite request for news considering how Kenobi had acted when it got sent. Not to mention all his sighing and staring out the view port when he thought no one was watching. This could be wonderful or it could be terrible.

Jinn could tell him yes and she'd be the recipient of Kenobi's gratitude. Or he could have said no and break Obi-Wan's heart. Then she'd have to find him and kill him.

Deciding that since she had been the orchestrator of the whole thing that she needed to see how it turned out, she released the message to his console immediately. Kenobi would be on duty in five minutes and always went through his mail first. A more methodical, patient man she had never met.

And if went badly, she knew people who could take over their shifts. A bottle of Alderaan brandy wouldn't fix anything, but it would certainly hurt less.. .

Rilka watched out of the corner of her eye as Obi-Wan scanned through his mail. Perversely, he stopped and stared at the console for almost a minute. He must have seen the mail and been terrified. She was about ready to get up and go over there herself to read the damned thing when he abruptly punched the button.

TO: \\RimSpace\\SenateConsularShip-D'Ka\\Kenobi,Knight\\ \\24,983\\SeventhMonth

FROM: \\RepublicSpace\\Coruscant\\JediTemple\\Room4300B\\Jinn,Master\\

My Dear Obi-Wan,

Your last transmission was very... enlightening. I don't know how it came to be sent and I well imagine the being responsible has had their error pointed out with your customary thoroughness. If they are not going out of their way to avoid you now, may I ask that when next you see them, you convey my gratitude? Whether you meant for me to see it or not, I am glad that I have. It has helped me to clarify certain things I have been wrestling with for a very long time.

You spoke of the much-vaunted Jedi control; I must confess there are times when I've felt that control is highly overrated. Especially lately, when it has kept me from speaking my true feelings. Has kept both of us from speaking. I regret that, I regret the distance it has created. I regret that it has made you doubt your place in my life, your place in my heart. Let me make one thing perfectly clear: you will always have my love and respect, just as there will always be a place in my heart and life for you. Nothing is ever going to change that: not you becoming a knight, not my taking Ani as an apprentice, NOTHING. I do not want to hear any more nonsense about you not having the right to it. You have more right than anyone.

And you have not been replaced. It's true that Ani is your successor as my padawan but you were -- are -- more to me than just my apprentice. I thought you knew that. You are my heart, Obi-Wan, and one does not replace one's heart. I know I should have spoken these words before now, and I apologize for not doing so. When you were my padawan, it did not seem... proper. Right.

Perhaps it was foolish -- you never had any trouble voicing your opinion or telling me when I was wrong --but if I had come to you with my feelings back then I would've felt like I was somehow imposing on you, that I would be taking advantage of my position. I had planned to speak when you became a knight, but circumstances at the time prevented me from doing so. You are not the only one who flinches at the thought of Naboo and what happened there. Not that I almost died, though that certainly would be enough to engender mixed feelings about the place. No, what haunts me about that encounter is how close you came to sacrificing yourself to save me. To come to and find you slumped over me all but dead yourself... well, I can't remember ever being more terrified. My own death, while not desirable, I could accept. But yours...

You so terrified me in fact, that combined with my physical injuries, I needed some time to get my equilibrium back before I could think of approaching you with my feelings. But almost as soon as you were knighted you were sent off to the Rim and I lost my chance entirely. And I have been kicking myself ever since.

By the way, your things are all still right where you left them. I could not bear to pack them away and Ani has assured me he doesn't mind sharing the room essentially with two people, even if one is never there. Partially I think it is because he is curious about you, his predecessor, and he wants to get to know you, even if it is only vicariously, through having your possessions around and listening to your letters.

You've become quite a hero to him with all your exploits in your letters, my dear General. Though this last one I highly censored in reading to him. There are things that are for us only.

And I would not be so certain of my ability to withstand the pressure of taking such a rank if I had been in your shoes. After all, I somehow was convinced to take a Council seat I neither needed nor wanted. There. You have heard it from me directly. I hope that it feels more real to you now. Though I understand how it would be hard to believe; I find myself questioning it on many an occasion as well. I believe that the only reason I was offered the seat in the first place is that the Council hoped that by doing so th ey would be able to exert more influence over me and consequently over Ani's training. But since I have modified neither my views nor my habit of speaking them, I suspect that more than one of my fellow counselors has been regretting that decision.

By the way, I saw a holo of you in your General uniform; it may not be as practical as your usual attire but you wear it well.

Very well.

I look forward to getting a look of you in it in person.

I must end this now, as there is a Council meeting in a few minutes that I must attend. Besides I want to get this on its way to you as soon as possible. To reassure you of my feelings and that your unintended letter has done no harm. Quite the opposite in fact.

But to be perfectly clear, let me state it explicitly: I love you. You are my heart and the other half of my soul. Nothing or no one will ever change that or replace you. And about your wondering what my response would be should you ask me to pairbond? The answer would be yes. QGJ

Interlude

It was like watching an eclipse end. Or the sun come through the clouds after a terrible storm. Nothing had changed in his outward appearance, not for this Jedi, but she could almost see the cold leeching from his soul.

Apparently it had been the right answer. The one Obi-Wan Kenobi needed. She blinked when she found herself spinning through the air. "Kenobi?"

"Yes, Rill?"

She blinked again. He'd never called her Rill before. Always Ensign or Rilka, refusing to allow himself the intimacy of a pet name for her. "Two things."

A grin stole across his face for a moment. "Yes?"

"One, you are holding me up in the air in the middle of the bridge." The infuriating man just nodded and raised an eyebrow, asking her to continue. "And you just called me Rill."

"I did, didn't I?"

She found herself back down on the semi-solid decking and waited. "So, what brought this on?"

"Like you don't know. You've been watching me like a Kseth hawk since I came on duty."

A blush warmed her face but she kept on going. "Well, yes. Got the answer you wanted?"

"Yes, I did and I have you to thank for it." He went to one knee and stared up at her. "I also have to apologize for yelling at you. Qui-Gon relays his thanks for passing on my message. I have to add mine to it as well."

Mouth hung open in shock, she could only stare at him.

"Rill? Does this mean you won't accept my apology?" Worry crept into his expression now, chasing away the joy.

"Oh, um. Yes, I accept the apology. Get up off your knees before the Captain sees you," she hissed.

He nodded and climbed back to his feet. "Yes, Ensign."

"And keep calling me Rill," she mumbled going back to her station, cheeks still aflame. "I like that."

He smiled. "So do I."

TO: \\RepublicSpace\\Coruscant\\JediTemple \\Room4300B\\Jinn,Master \\24,983\\SeventhMonth

FROM: \\RimSpace\\SenateConsularShip-D'Ka \\Kenobi,Knight\\

First I must apologize for the delay in answering your missive. There was a minor run-in with a few pirates and we lost communications for twenty days. All the details are in the formal report, so I'll spare you reading them twice. It seems that we've been ordered to a resupply post in Republic Controlled space next, thank the Force.

I'm beginning to think that Jedi field rations would be an improvement over the food we have left and the recirculated air doesn't bear thinking about. Unfortunately we need to take on new crew as well. It was a near thing with the brigands and we are a military vessel! They grow bold and I fear for those caught between us and the Dark.

My love to Ani, and tell him to check in the bottom drawer of the desk. The notes from my astronavigation class are there, should he wish to have something of his own choice to study. I'll make him a bargain. He studies the poetry I know he's been avoiding and I'll make sure he gets a chance to tour the ship when we are all together again. Remind him that I am no hero and that I am just doing my duty. He should attend to his and take care of you. He and I can share the task when I return.

Don't roll your eyes, Master. You enjoy being cared for as much as you enjoy taking care of others.

So, I've managed to avoid answering your last letter directly so far, which is rather unlike me. Apparently I need more meditation to know my mind better and strengthen my resolve. There hasn't been much time to do anything but my duties for the last month and I long for the sun, wind and your face. I miss and love you.

There. I said it. Knowing that this time you will see it.

As for the last time, the commtech cannot go out of her way to avoid me as we share the same watch. I do fear I was... thorough... when it happened. I do think my response when I got your reply made up for my long term sternness. When I finally received your letter I wavered between whooping for joy and passing out from shock. In the end I settled for promising to buy Ensign Rilka a drink. Then I printed out your letter and have carried it in my tunic ever since. She teases me mercilessly now. Fortunately she knows of my shyness in such matters and has not shared my personal life with the crew. I have no doubt I would lose respect with a number of them if they knew their pet Jedi was a love smitten fool.

Don't raise your hackles at my being considered their pet either. Far better that than the alternative.

In a separate letter I am sending my official recommendations to the Council regarding some reassignments. There are some knights out here that have no business dealing with the Fleet. I fear I am spending more of my time being a referee than I am doing my own work.

I'm avoiding things again, aren't?

**Timestamp reflect 6 hours to next entry

Your love is the light that I awaken to before my shift begins. In the scant moments before I fall asleep I let myself wonder what it would be like to sleep in your arms again. I fear you have unleashed the romantic in me, Qui-Gon. I only hope that he is as forthcoming when I am actually in your presence. Perhaps it is for the best that you did not mention your love for me. I know that if it had been in that brief window of time between that place and my leaving that I would not have had the strength to leave you and do my duty. I doubt that the Council would have been pleased with me.

It is nice to know that I have a home and people to come back to. As I gain some confidence in myself and our relationship I see that most of my fears were foolish. I can imagine your gentle smile as you read that line and shake your head at me. It seems I will be spending the rest of my life learning from you and there is no other way I wish it to be.

I have to be back on duty in ten minutes and Rilka has promised me a quick relay bounce to Coruscant. Forgive me if I forget something in the rush. I will repeat my offer in person as soon as possible, but this will have to do until then. I take you as my friend, my lover, my heart and half of my soul for the rest of my life and beyond.

Your Obi-Wan

And what is with your interest in the uniform?

"Today?"

"Yes, Jedi Kenobi. Today." It was the third time she had answered the question in the last five minutes. Not that she was counting or anything. "Are you sure you don't just want to do a live transmission instead?"

"Oh, no. I can't. It's personal."

"I know." She grinned.

Obi-Wan blushed. "No, but thank you for the offer. I doubt the Fleet would appreciate my squandering their resources this way."

"Heh." There was a pause. "Transmission sent. Now go sit down."

"Yes, ma'am."

"General Kenobi! There's a pirate on the scope, and he brought friends."

"Here we go again." In a louder voice that would carry over the hum of conversation, "Brace for impact and --"

TO: \\RimSpace\\SenateConsularShip-D'ka \\Kenobi,Knight\\ \\24,983\\EighthMonth
FROM:\\RepublicSpace\\Coruscant\\JediTemple\\Room4300B\\Jinn,Master\\

My Dear Obi-Wan,

Receiving your last letter was a great relief. The long silence had begun to worry me, especially with the reports we've been receiving from your area. Yours is not the only ship that has seen an increase in action, and we've had reports more than once of a ship's destruction. Not every report came with the ship's name either and I had some bad moments waiting to find out it wasn't the D'Ka. Wasn't you.

The thought of losing you, unbearable as it was before, seems infinitely worse now. Frankly it terrifies me. And I cannot totally shake a feeling of impending doom. For a very long time I had been telling myself that to tell you of my feelings would be wrong and even though the reasons behind that have ceased to exist, my subconscious insists that now that I have told you, something horrible will happen.

As you can see, you are not the only one having to overcome foolish fears.

It hasn't helped that my schedule has become more hectic than usual. The upsurge of hostile attacks on Republic forces and innocents alike has meant more Council meetings. Meetings in which we sit and debate, going round and round the same verbal circles and deciding nothing. If this is indeed a harbinger of the return of the Sith, we should be taking action to prepare. Instead we sit and talk, though there seems to be remarkably little listening involved. There has been many a time that I feel like I could accomplish more if I banged my head against the temple wall. I suspect that it would give in long before the Council does.

Luckily, the other part of my schedule, namely training Ani, is as much a joy as the Council sessions are a misery. He is a quick and enthusiastic learner, though you are correct in your assumption that that enthusiasm does not extend to poetry. Your bribe of a ship tour has made him more diligent about studying it however.

I wish you could have seen his face when he found your astronavigation notes. Almost every moment of spare time he's had since has been devoted to studying them. He gets so engrossed that I have to remind him to go to bed, otherwise he would stay up all night.

If you had not already won over his heart, this has cemented it.

You long ago won mine. And you are not the only one who falls asleep imagining what it will feel like to do so with you in my arms. I think about it every night. That, and what we will do before we fall asleep.

And duty-wise, perhaps you are right about it being for the best that I did not tell you of my feelings when you were knighted. For, just as you don't think you would've had the strength to leave after such a declaration, I don't think I would have had the strength to let you go.

I still kick myself for not doing it though.

There is yet another Council meeting beginning in about 20 minutes, this one to discuss your recommendations on reassignments which I will try to get pushed through; from what I know of those on the list, if anything you have understated the problem -- so I will have to close this quickly.

I miss you, my Obi-Wan, and love you with every beat of my pulse. You are, and always will be, as essential to my continuing existence as oxygen. I only hope I can tell you in person before much longer.

Love, Your Qui-Gon

Oh, as to my interest in the uniform, just take a look in a mirror the next time you have it on. That should explain it all. QGJ

TO:\\RepublicSpace\\Coruscant\\JediTemple\\Room4300B\\Jinn,Master\\24,983\\EighthMonth

FROM:\\RepublicSpace\\RegulaBase\\PublicTerminal\\Kenobi,Knight

Master,

It figures with my cursed luck. I finally get to a base with public holo facilities and you aren't available. The universe is conspiring against me seeing you. It was nice to chat with Ani, however. He's grown a lot since I saw him last. And just when you thought you were done stocking the pantry twice a week...

He tells me the most interesting things about your time together. I had no idea I came up in conversation between the two of you so often. Or that you haven't been eating properly. This doesn't please me, Qui-Gon. I need you to take care of yourself. I need to know that you are well and waiting for me to return. I need you.

Anyway, the ship is under extensive repairs and I may have to change to another vessel. The military doesn't want me sitting here for the twenty standard days it is going to take to fix her. So, it looks like a regular military vessel and no more Consular ship. I'm not sure if this is a bad or good thing. Definitely a more hostile environment.

What is happening to the independence of the Jedi? Out here I am expected to follow orders from higher up in the military. I thought that I was sent as a mediator. Yes, this is an unofficial cry for help from my old master, since my official requests have been ignored or rerouted. I'll delay boarding as long as possible and hope that you can do something to help me or at least insure that I have my diplomatic credentials reinstated. I hesitate to question my orders publicly. With you it was easy, you listened. The Republic Guards, however, just see a very new Jedi Knight with a high potential for destruction and -

Enough of my grousing. I need to order supplies, make about a million reports, get my crew taken care of, find my stuff, train, meditate and somewhere in there find time to eat dinner and sleep.

Off to do battle with bureaucracy. All my love to you and Ani.

Your Obi-Wan

Oh, I looked in the mirror and only saw myself in a tight fitting uniform and --oh.

Oh.

"General!"

"I know, I know. I'm coming." Obi-Wan snapped off the terminal and stood. It was going to be a really, really long day.

TO:\\RepublicSpace\\RegulaBase\\TempQuarters\\Room73596\\Kenobi,Knight\\24,983\\EighthMonth

FROM:\\RepublicSpace\\Coruscant\JediTemple\\Room4300B\\Jinn,Master\\

My Dear Obi-Wan,

By now I expect you have notification of your new orders or, more accurately perhaps, the reinstatement of your original orders.

It seems there are some advantages to being on the Council after all, even if it is only greater ease in bullying soldiers and bureaucrats. The worst of the bunch, of course, are soldiers who have become bureaucrats, and I took great pleasure in contacting the one whose bright idea it was to order you aboard a military vessel. I explained to him in excruciating detail the status of the Jedi as a separate and independent body, answerable only to the Jedi Council (of which I was a member) and the error he was making in trying to co-opt you into his own command structure. I politely suggested that he rethink his position before I had to bring this incident to the full Council's attention. He backtracked and agreed with admirable speed. It was most satisfying.

Let me know if you aren't issued new diplomatic credentials and I will contact him again. I almost wish that you do; there is so little in this job that brings me pleasure.

Certainly not the Council meetings. If anything, they have gotten even more tedious and bogged down in rhetoric. And when decisions are actually reached, I fear far too often they are the wrong ones. Case in point was the review of your recommendations for the reassignment of certain knights unsuited for the work they are doing. After much rambling about every Jedi having to be able to handle a myriad of situations, they decided to leave all but one right where they are (and the only reason they agreed to reassignment of that one is that the Healers had also included a report stating that this particular knight was in the process of a mental breakdown). Their position is that even if the knights aren't suited for the work and are indeed making a mess of it, at the very least it will be a learning experience for them and they will do better next time. Force help us all if there is a next time.

What did you tell Ani? The boy now hovers over me at every mealtime and refuses to leave as long as there is food still on my plate. He just sits and stares until I have finished every bite. If I challenge him on it, he invokes your name, like a shield and weapon both. I am a Jedi Master and member of the Council and have been feeding myself for a very long time. I do not enjoy being made to feel like a recalcitrant child who is not allowed to leave the table until he has finished his vegetables.

The sentiment, though, if not its resulting actions, is appreciated, love. But rest assured I have not been starving myself. If I have lost a few pounds it is not enough to reduce me to a skeleton. I am quite well and am indeed waiting for you to return. Please stop trying to co-opt my padawan. Next thing you'll know he'll be insisting on tucking me in at night to make sure I get enough sleep.

While the subject is raised, are you getting adequate food and rest? Or shall I contact your Ensign Rilka and give her the same instructions you've given Ani?

I know you must be extremely busy with the D'Ka's repairs so I'll let you get to it. Ani sends his love, as do I. Keep yourself safe. I need you as much as you need me. I do not want to even contemplate a life without you in it, so make sure you come back to me, whole and undamaged if you can manage it.

Love, Your Qui-Gon

Oh, you might want to give up on the uniform for a while. While it makes it easier for those under you to see you as part of the command chain, it also makes it easier for those above you to see you the same way, and while this leads to those under you to be more inclined to follow your orders, it makes those above you more inclined to giving you orders and expecting them to be obeyed. Your Jedi cloak will hopefully serve as a visual reminder of your independence.

But don't get rid of the uniform. I still am very much looking forward to seeing it on you in person. And taking it off myself. QGJ

TO:\\RepublicSpace\\Coruscant\\JediTemple\\Room4300B\\Jinn,Master\\24,983\\EighthMonth

FROM: \\RepublicSpace\\RegulaBase\\TempQuarters\\Room735964300B\\Kenoibi,Knight

Qui-Gon,

It appears that I have overstepped my bounds in a number of areas in the last few weeks and I apologize for that. I've sent a letter to Ani and explained what I really meant in our conversation. I forgot how literal minded someone his age can be. I merely wished for him to watch out for you and gave him a hint or two on what to do. Perhaps I was a bit too... forceful when I heard of your reduced appetite. It is a failing of mine and I shall work on it. It's just that I cannot be there to do it myself and that...

Enough of my prattle. I shall have to explain my actions to you, the ones that I have no doubt are being reported to you in great detail by Knight Lashar. I'm sure you recall the mission with the Getha and how picky they are about protocol. It seems that Lashar had no interest in doing his research or in listening to my advice on the matter and nearly started a war.

All over using the wrong bow and handshake. It was rather fortunate that I was nearby and managed to avert the mess. I fear that I was a bit short with Knight Lashar though. And he had no interest in my apology afterwards.

In other news, your end run against the command structure has worked. Especially as you can see that I am still here at the base. It has made the other Jedi that pass through here look at me oddly, but I have no desire to fight when I don't have to. War fever seems to be infecting everyone but me. It's a lonely feeling. I can hear Knight Lashar's angry probes of the Force. He is looking for me, so I'll finish this quickly.

Love you and take care

Your Obi-Wan

Interlude

Another Council meeting. It was getting to the point that Qui-Gon was becoming sick of the sight of the Council chamber and the word "meeting." This one was different however. This one he would've managed to be present for, even if he wasn't a member of the Jedi ruling body.

The holoprojector came on and the center of the room filled with the flickering blue light. Two figures shimmered there, one he hadn't seen in over a year, and it was standing behind and to the left of someone that was not himself. The wrongness of that shook him. They both bowed and the taller figure began to speak. "Greetings, Masters."

Qui-Gon barely registered the words of the foremost figure. His entire being was focused on the other one. The one that haunted his dreams and shared his soul. The one that held his heart. Obi-Wan's normally melodious voice was marred with static. "Greetings to the Council."

The taller knight turned slightly and glared at Obi-Wan. "Knights Lashar and Kenobi, reporting to the Council."

Qui-Gon felt a flash of irritation at the young knight but kept his face impassive. His... fondness... for his former padawan was well known and he knew he would be watched closely for any overt partiality. He wasn't particularly worried about it. Knowing Obi-Wan as well as he did and knowing some of the details of the situation, he knew it wouldn't be a strain on his conscience to support him in this mini-debacle.

"Know why you were asked to appear, you do?" Master Yoda asked the two knights.

"Yes, Master," Lashar answered. Obi-Wan murmured his agreement.

"Explain, you will. Jedi Lashar."

"Kenobi and I were at the reception area for the new Gethan delegation. They were stopping by Regula Base to resupply on their way to Ortha 8. Kenobi had been informed in advance of their arrival as he is temporarily stationed here. I was informed by station personnel."

Qui-Gon listened, but kept his eyes on Obi-Wan. Though his former apprentice's demeanor was calm and collected, Qui-Gon knew him well enough to catch the little things that gave away a loss of good temper: the slight stiffening of his shoulders, the aborted clenching of his hands, the way his changeable eyes turned color, these were all tell tale signs of exactly how angry Obi-Wan was.

And the answer was very.

'Patience, love,' Qui-Gon thought at him, wishing they were close enough that he could reach out with the Force to soothe. 'You did the right thing and you will not suffer for it. I won't let you.'

The pompous knight continued. "He failed to inform me of the delegation's arrival, and it was only through my own efforts that I arrived in time to greet them. I bowed and offered a customary style greeting."

Obi-Wan continued to visibly restrain himself from saying anything while the other knight spoke. "Kenobi stepped in front of me and began speaking in what is apparently Gethan. A ritual greeting I was told later by someone else. The ambassador refused to speak to me after that, and they left with Kenobi to have a tour of the base."

"That is all to tell us you have?" Yoda asked, and Qui-Gon was pleased to see that his old Master was as much annoyed with Lashar's conduct as he was. Looking at Obi-Wan, he could see that it had not gone unnoticed by him either. He watched as Obi-Wan both straightened and relaxed slightly.

"I would like Kenobi to be reprimanded." Qui-Gon could almost see Obi-Wan's eyes rolling ceilingward as Lashar outlined his 'punishment'. "He is far too junior of a knight to continue on his duties without supervision. I would offer my advice and council to him."

"How... generous," Qui-Gon stated, his voice heavy with irony.

He watched Obi-Wan's mouth twitch slightly at the words and had to suppress a wistful sigh. He missed this, missed watching the younger man's reactions to his comments. In the past he sometimes had said something deliberately outrageous just to watch Obi-Wan react. Breaking that Jedi solemnity that the over-serious Padawan had taken to heart so early on.

Lashar frowned. "I'm afraid I don't know you, Master."

He allowed a slight smile to touch his lips. "Qui-Gon Jinn."

Obi-Wan's mouth twitched again.

The tall knight bowed slightly. "An honor to meet you at last, Master Jinn."

Qui-Gon ignored the salutation. "Have you ever met a Gethan before, Lashar?" He saw several of his fellow Councilors frown at his deliberate withholding of Lashar's title, not to mention his about to be blunt showing of the young man's ignorance before the most senior peers of the Order.

"No, Master Jinn."

"You of course researched their customs before you went to meet the delegation."

"I --" the knight ground to a halt.

Qui-Gon continued, keeping his voice deceptively casual. "But no, you couldn't have, could you? Because if you had, you would have known that they consider bowing a vicious insult and that touching -- such as shaking hands -- is strictly forbidden." He let a little bit of his anger and disgust show through. "You should thank Knight Kenobi for stopping you from creating an interplanetary incident."

There was no way his anger could be sensed from this distance, but it was clear the knight was annoyed. "Kenobi failed to inform me, so there was no way I could be expected to learn such things, Master."

Qui-Gon turned his attention to Obi-Wan. "Knight Kenobi."

His beloved turned slightly so that he faced him directly and bowed. "Master Jinn."

Both of them so formal, when formal was the last thing Qui-Gon wanted to be. Perhaps, when this was over he would see if it would be possible to put in a private comm call, so he could tell his former padawan what he really wanted to say. For now the formality was serving its purpose, keeping them both focused on their duty, the whole purpose of the call. "Do your duties include being secretary to Knight Lashar?"

"No, Master." Obi-Wan's tone was perfectly neutral. His eyes however, fairly danced with suppressed humor.

"And how did you find out about the delegation's arrival?"

He could see the twitch to his former padawan's lips that meant he was going to be treated to a recital of facts. All delivered in cultured tones that were impeccably neutral and damning all at the same time.

"As is standard procedure, my master, I accessed the daily arrivals sheet at the beginning of my watch." He paused. "The regular staff of the base is quite overwhelmed at the moment, so at the request of the Captain of the D'Ka one of my duties is to welcome trade delegations at the base as time allows."

Lashar looked like he wanted to interrupt, but one sideways glance from Obi-Wan hushed him. His new-made knight delivered the blow. "The information is publicly available to anyone with the right clearances who wishes it."

'Well done, Padawan,' Qui-Gon thought, keeping the pleased smile off his face with effort. He turned back to Lashar. "I see no basis for your accusation. Knight Kenobi didn't tell you because it is not his job to tell you. As well, the information was publicly available and you could've looked it up yourself with only a little effort."

"Indeed, Master Jinn. However he --" The man snarled and then drew a deep breath, visibly calming himself. "I still feel that Kenobi is far too inexperienced to continue his duties on the ship D'Ka. I have reports that he fails to comport himself as he should with the crew and is frequently seen out of the traditional uniform."

"We have had no complaints from anyone aboard the ship or on any of the planets the ship has stopped," Qui-Gon said, feigning surprise.

"Perhaps you were speaking to the wrong people, Master. Allow me to transmit my reports." There was a pause while he matched words to deed. "It is easy to understand, after all. He's young and I think that his appearance and the military rank have gone to his head. It happens."

Obi-Wan coughed suddenly and his head tilted down, obscuring his face from the Council. His shoulders shook slightly in what Qui-Gon was sure was suppressed laughter.

Qui-Gon looked down at his screen to see that pages and pages of reports from the D'Ka's missions had been downloaded. Reports the Council in general, and himself especially, had already read. Looking up at Lashar again, he said, "An impressive amount of research you've done here. Pity you didn't put as much effort into researching Gethan customs. We could have avoided this whole situation."

"I did not have the opportunity during my apprenticeship to go on many diplomatic missions as Kenobi did." He made it sound like a slur on Obi-Wan's training.

His love said softly, "Pardon, Master Jinn, Knight Lashar. If I could suggest…"

"Yes, Obi-Wan?" Yoda prodded when the statement trailed off inconclusively. His tone, like the look he gave the young knight was kind and encouraging.

Qui-Gon knew by the small sigh before Obi-Wan began to speak that he really didn't want to do this, but his sense of duty overwhelmed any personal concerns, as usual. It was so Jedi, so quintessentially his padawan. "If the Council has no objections, Knight Lashar is welcome to join me on the D'Ka. I would be happy to share whatever knowledge I have with him."

Lashar, Qui-Gon noted, looked positively horrified at the suggestion.

"Interesting solution presented us, you have," Yoda said thoughtfully.

"Respectfully, I think the time aboard a diplomatic vessel rather than a military one would be enlightening for him. And for my part, I'm sure I can learn much of the current military situation from Knight Lashar." Underneath it all was the faintest hint of loneliness.

At that moment Qui-Gon wanted nothing more than reach out to Obi-Wan, mentally, physically, emotionally, any and all ways. His hand had reached out a couple of centimeters before he could stop it.

Obi-Wan must have seen the tiny movement because his eyes captured Qui-Gon's and the depths of love that had only been conveyed in words was suddenly, visibly real.

Three-dimensional.

Qui-Gon couldn't totally restrain the soft gasp at the sight. Letters were one thing. To actually see it was something else again. And there wasn't a damn thing he could say or do about it at that moment.

Obi-Wan took a half step towards him, then bumped into something that was out of range of the projector. It startled the knight visibly. One hand came up and tugged the hood further over his face, hiding him and his painfully obvious emotions. "What does the Council think of my suggestion?"

Lashar was obviously confused at the byplay and whatever he was sensing from Obi-Wan. If the rest of the Council had noticed the silent exchange between Qui-Gon and his former apprentice none of them let it show. Yoda shifted in his seat and let his gaze rove around the circle at the other members. "What say you all?"

A murmur of sounds, the voices of all the other Council members, save himself and Yoda discussed the proposal as the two knights waited. The consensus was clear, though probably not quite the vote of confidence that Knight Lashar was looking for today.

Qui-Gon exchanged a glance with his old master. A tilt of his head, a dip of Yoda's ears, and he was given back control of the situation. "Knight Lashar, you are assigned to the D'Ka. Knight Kenobi, you shall remain senior knight on the vessel until such time as you feel that Lashar is able to do his duties, unsupervised."

Nothing like authority to deflate someone else's pride.

Lashar's mouth fell open.

"Thank you, Masters." Obi-Wan stepped into the conversational breech. "I need to attend to other matters, but if I might know when the Council is adjourning… I need to speak to Master Jinn on a private matter."

Qui-Gon was sure the ripple of astonishment that flowed through him at Obi-Wan's boldness showed clearly on his face.

Yoda merely seemed amused at the question. "Hard to pin down have you found him?"

A short chuckle escaped the young man, "Yes, Master Yoda. I had grown accustomed to being right behind him and not having to track him down like everyone else."

The amusement seemed to spread through the entire Council at that. Even Qui-Gon found himself with a faint smile. 'I am not the one wandering the galaxy, love,' he thought fondly.

"On the agenda only was this. Dismissed the Council will be when the transmission ends."

"Thank you, Master." Obi-Wan bowed and stepped back, once again fading into Jedi solemnity.

He turned to his fellow knight, and whispered something that the audio pickups missed. Whatever it was galvanized Lashar into action, "Thank you, Masters. I shall serve to the best of my abilities."

The formalities were quickly concluded. Obi-Wan spoke softly to Lashar again, and the knight bowed, and then stepped out of visual range.

The young man bowed once more to the Council, and then the beam flickered out. He was gone. The room suddenly seemed much darker without Obi-Wan in it. As Yoda had promised, the meeting was dismissed quickly and Qui-Gon headed back to his quarters.

He had to remind himself not to run.

It had been months since they had spoken freely to each other, months of polite dancing around issues. It reminded him uncomfortably of the Senate. The door slid open and he could hear Ani's voice, chirping happily. Craning his neck to the niche that held the communications equipment, he could see his padawan talking to his… former padawan.

"-has been eating better," Ani was saying. "You were right --the staring thing worked."

Obi-Wan's laughter was genuine. "And how goes the poetry studies?"

Ani made a face. "It's still boring, but I guess it's going okay."

"And you expect to get a tour of the D'Ka by calling it boring?"

"Hey, all you said was I had to study it, you never said I had to like it. I can show you what you wrote if I have to; Master Qui-Gon's saved all your letters."

"You've um," Obi-Wan cleared his throat uncomfortably, "read them?"

"Nah, he just reads me the parts you've asked him to. Then he sits and reads the rest to himself over and over, usually with this little smile on his face."

At that Qui-Gon stepped forward into view before his padawan could give away any more of his habits. "Qui--" Obi-Wan broke off and started again. "Master."

"Obi-Wan," he replied, trying to look stern. He was sure his eyes were giving him away though.

"It's good to finally speak with you and Anakin." Obi-Wan's lips quirked up in a grin. "You are a hard pair to catch up to."

Qui-Gon smiled back. "And you are even harder. But here we are, finally. Face to face, or as close to it as we can get while on opposite sides of the galaxy."

"It will have to do. Perhaps we can arrange a face-to-face meeting. I--" Obi-Wan paused and swallowed back whatever he was going to say. "The D'Ka goes back into service in thirty six hours and I have much to do. I'm told our route will bring us past Corellia in three months."

Three months. Ani would be ready to go on a few simple missions by then. Maybe...

He pushed the thought out of his mind for the moment. It was something he could think about later. Right now he didn't want to waste any of this time with his love by trying to plan the possible next time. Qui-Gon was startled when the look of guarded happiness faded from Obi-Wan's face. The words that followed convinced him that he and his former apprentice needed to have an honest talk.

"It's all right, Master. The Captain promises that I can have leave back to Coruscant, if the situation on the Rim doesn't worsen. Provided that my new assignment goes successfully."

"What's that, Obi-Wan?" Ani asked.

"Knight Lashar is to learn diplomacy from me."

Ani frowned in concentration turning to Qui-Gon. "Isn't that the knight you said couldn't--"

"Yes," Qui-Gon interrupted, making a mental note to be more careful of his words around his padawan.

Obi-Wan's eyebrows rose slightly. "I shan't ask, Master. I shall however, look upon the assignment as a challenge, as much of a challenge as I was in learning the same subject. In return, Knight Lashar can teach me patience." An evil light came into his love's eyes. "And perhaps Master Qui-Gon can help."

He wouldn't...Qui-Gon looked again at Obi-Wan's expression and sighed. He would.

Ani positively bounced in the chair. "Can I help too?"

"If our master says you may, certainly. It should be enlightening for Knight Lashar." Qui-Gon felt his mouth twitch at the thought. "It's been wonderful chatting with you, Ani. However --"

The boy rolled his eyes. "You wanna talk without me around."

"It would be a kindness, yes," Obi-Wan said softly.

Ani looked from him to his master, then nodded. "Okay. I'll go study in my room. Bye, Obi-Wan."

"Goodbye, Ani. Oh, and feel free to write me. It would be good to hear from you." Obi-Wan waited a bit. "Master?"

Qui-Gon let the smile he'd been fighting since the Council meeting finally appear. "I'm not your master any longer, Obi-Wan. My name is Qui-Gon."

"Qui-Gon, my love." The three-D image of Obi-Wan reached for him.

Unable to stop himself, Qui-Gon reached out as well, only to have his hand pass through Obi-Wan's.

"No," Obi-Wan whispered a galaxy away as he drew back and buried his hands in his sleeves. "Not fair."

"Nobody promised us fair." He had to swallow hard around the lump that was suddenly in his throat.

There was a bitter chuckle. "No, they didn't. The situation is one of our own making anyway. I wish I had been braver. I wish --It is good to see you, again."

"This isn't permanent, love. We will be together again."

Obi-Wan gave a nod that acknowledged the sentiment, but said nothing more. It was clear that he was trying to distance himself from the pain of his heart. Pain that lurked beneath that calm surface. It swirled through the green eyes and darkened them. Qui-Gon felt the urge to reach out for him again, but stopped himself from raising his hand just in time. It did no good to belabor the obvious. "I was proud of you today," he said instead, hoping maybe words would help ease some of what he saw in his beloved's face.

"Thank you, Master, but I only did what was best for everyone involved." A quirk of the lips. "Besides, it was clear the Council wasn't going to reassign the twit and this way I have some control over the situation."

"And someone to talk to, even if he is a twit?" Qui-Gon ventured, remembering the look he had seen in Obi-Wan's eyes in the meeting. "Are you that lonely, love?"

Obi-Wan wouldn't meet his eyes. "I said as much in my letter. I've never been alone before." The voice got even softer, the audio pickups hard pressed to catch the sound. "You've been there for so long, and now…"

"And I'm still here. I will always be here for you. Distance can't change that."

"Yes, Master." It was said dutifully enough.

Qui-Gon sighed, feeling frustrated and depressed. "You don't believe me."

"I do believe you, Qui-Gon. It's just hard to remember. You aren't here," Obi-Wan tapped his temple with one finger, "anymore."

The training bond. That induced another sigh. Like every master did, he had let the bond begin to fade when his padawan made knight. In most cases it was a necessary part of the process. But not in this case. The emotional bonds between them were such that instead of setting Obi-Wan free, all breaking the training bond had done was hurt them both. But what could be done could be undone. At the very least Qui-Gon was going to try.

Closing his eyes, he reached for where the bond had been and tried to follow its remnants. Tracing amongst the bright lines of Force that were his fellow Jedi he searched for the one that called to him the loudest. The one called Obi-Wan Kenobi, the other half of his soul. There was more there than he had suspected or hoped. It seemed that neither of them had wanted to let go. Woven together with the bonds of affection and love he worked. Brightness warmed his soul, but was it enough to bring the bond back to life? To give them an active connection again that they could touch each other through? Touch his mind again?

"M-Master?" Obi-Wan's voice sounded doubled. [Qui-Gon?]

Smiling, Qui-Gon opened his eyes and smiled. [Obi-Wan,] he sent, pouring all his love through the newly reestablished bond.

[Missed this.] Love redoubled came back to the Jedi Master. [By the Force I've missed you.]

The old training bond grew between them, deepening and strengthening as they stared at each other across light years and let their minds intertwine again. It became… more. It probably should've surprised Qui-Gon but it did not. He thought that somewhere deep inside, he always knew this is what would happen between them.

A soulbond.

The sound of Obi-Wan's laughter rung through his mind. "And the Council thought they had trouble before… I do so love you, Qui-Gon Jinn, and you are in for some serious romantic exercise when I get my hands on you."

Qui-Gon smiled. "Likewise." He paused and added almost as an afterthought, "You will remember to bring the uniform though, won't you?"

TO:\\RepublicSpace\\Coruscant\\JediTemple\\Room4300B\\Jinn,Master \\24,983\\EighthMonth

FROM:\\RepublicSpace\\RegulaBase\\TempQuarters\\Room735964300B\\Kenoibi,Knight

My dear Qui-Gon,

It's only been three hours since we ended our transmission, but I find that I cannot sleep. The bond forged between us sings with love and it fills my heart. I hadn't realized how dark my life had become until we began speaking with each other honestly again. I grew cold in your absence.

This fantastic change is also winding me up tighter than a dancer on Dust. I think Lashar is going to punch me out to make me sit still for longer than five minutes. He's given up on asking me any questions about what went on during the meeting and afterwards. Even in my hyper state I'm too much of a diplomat to give away that much information so soon.

Or I'm so obvious that he doesn't need to ask. Hmm...

The Captain wasn't pleased with the new orders from the Council. It seems that Lashar has quite a reputation already. The Fleet was about to ask for his reassignment to anywhere else but here. The Captain was even less pleased when he found out that I was the one behind the change in orders. Apparently I have no common sense, but you knew that already.

Seriously, I could use some suggestions as to what to do with Knight Lashar. I don't know who his master was, but apparently he was never taught the basics of diplomacy. Any chance I could get his training records so I have some idea where to start? Find out what the man was trained for? And why the heck he's out here to begin with?

Apologies, Master. I shouldn't question the Council's wisdom, but it makes me wonder who was in charge that day. All of these young knights shuffled around at random. Where are the senior masters? Are things that bad elsewhere?

**Timestamp reflects 10 days elapsed

Master Qui-Gon,

This is Ensign Rilka. I'm forwarding on Knight Kenobi's letter to you since he cannot. The base has been attacked and he was wounded. His first words out of the bacta tank were for me to send you his letter and to tell you that everything is fine. And to NOT come  visit. I think he would do far better to hear from you. His eyes will finish regenerating in a few days and he'll be able to write you himself. He's asked me to dictate the ending of the letter so I shall, but I wanted you to know what was going on first. Rilka

Qui-Gon, Don't come visit. The base is still under attack periodically and it isn't safe for traffic to come in. The pirates have gotten extraordinarily brave and I think that there is definitely someone behind this. Wait until everything stabilizes, please.

All my love, Obi-Wan

"You'll send it today?"

"Already done."

"Thank you."

"Certainly. Now, what is the deal with your master?"

"Umm..." She laughed at his blush.

"Master!"

Anakin ran across the training area to where Qui-Gon had doubled over in pain. The young padawan had no idea what had happened; one second Qui-Gon was talking him through a training exercise, the next he had grabbed his head and collapsed with a pained cry.

Thankfully, it looked like he was already beginning to recover as he reached out and gripped Ani's arm and started to uncurl. But then Ani heard him speak and got a look at his face.

"I am fine, Ani," Qui-Gon tried to reassure him, but the quaver in his voice and the pallor of his skin belied his words.

"You don't look it. Or sound it."

His master sighed heavily and climbed to his feet. "I assure you I am quite well, Padawan. It is not me who is hurt."

The way he said it made it clear to Ani that someone was and there was only one person he could think of that would initiate this kind of reaction in his master. "What's happened to Obi-Wan?" he asked bluntly.

The haunted look in Qui-Gon's eyes faded just slightly and a slight smile quirked his lips. "Your insight serves you well, Ani. Or am I just that obvious?" Before Ani could answer, Qui-Gon continued, smile fading, "Obi-Wan has been injured. It's not life-threatening but it is serious." His face became even grimmer. "And extremely painful."

"He's going to be all right though, isn't he?"

"Of course." There had been the slightest of hesitations before Qui-Gon had answered however, leading Ani to believe he wasn't as sure as he sounded. Before he could say anything, Qui-Gon was on his feet heading for the door. "Ani, go back to our quarters and pack for an extended trip. I'm going to go see the Council and then I'll join you. We'll be leaving for Regula Base as soon as we can find transport."

And then he was gone before Ani had any chance to react. Picking up both their cloaks and his wooden training saber he headed back to their quarters. Maybe now he'd finally get a chance to talk to Knight Kenobi, find out what happened in that room on Naboo. No one had wanted to talk to him about it. Then it got shoved aside by his own actions, blowing up the Trade Federation ship. Somehow Master Qui-Gon never got back around to telling him what had happened. Finally he'd gone and looked up the official records on it. Something didn't make sense here and getting his Master and Knight Obi-Wan back in the same place would fix it. It had to. Master Qui-Gon had been slowly fading away over the last year. . .

TO:\\RepublicSpace\\RegulaBase\\TempQuarters\\Room735964300B\\Kenobi,Knight \\24,983\\NinthMonth

FROM:\\RepublicSpace\\CourierShipDragonwing\\Jinn,Master

My Dearest Obi-Wan,

As you can see, your admonishment to stay on Coruscant arrived a bit too late. In all honesty, even if it had arrived before I had left, I would've come regardless. I can imagine the expression on your face right now --the disapproving frown and the faint air of exasperation. I've seen it often enough over the years, whenever I chose a course of action that you didn't agree with.

But you cannot expect me to stay away when I know you are hurt; if our positions were reversed would you be able to stay away?

Anticipating your next argument, I assure you I am not shirking my duty to either Ani or the Council. You are not the only one who has come to the conclusion that these attacks are being coordinated by a single presence. The Council decided to send a representative to investigate in person. I volunteered. So I am making this trip with not only the Council's knowledge but their full approval as well. Which explains the fast courier ship that was placed at my disposal.

As for Ani, well, he was about ready to start going on missions anyway. And I doubt I could have left him on Coruscant, even if I had wanted to. He has been almost as worried about you as I have been. The news that you would recover fully has lifted his spirits considerably. He is, at this very moment, in the ship's cockpit pestering the pilot for all the information he can. I have no doubt that if I let him have his head, he would have the man convinced to let him take a turn at flying. Having Ani for a padawan is definitely a full time job, especially when there is flying involved.

Your letter has also been a great relief to me. You have no idea how terrified I was when I felt your pain through our bond. I knew you were injured, and seriously, I just didn't know how seriously. Or if the damage was permanent. I've been in a constant state of near panic for the past two weeks not knowing for sure how you were or what had happened. All I knew was you were in pain.

Do you understand why I had to come? I couldn't just sit on Coruscant and wait for whenever official word would reach us. I had to see for myself, had to see the situation, had to see you.

Had to touch you. I do not think my panic will fully subside until I do.

The pilot has informed me we're about to enter hyperspace again and that any messages I have must be sent now so I must end this. Even with having to bounce through a multitude of relays, you should receive this a day or two before we arrive. Even in this ship, the fastest I could obtain, it will be almost another week before we reach the base. The sheer distances combined with the circuitous route we are taking to avoid any attacks of our own ensure that. Until then just know that I love you with every fiber of my being, and that I won't feel healed until I am in your presence.

All my love,

Your Qui-Gon

TO:\\RepublicSpace\\CourierShipDragonwing\\Jinn,Master\\24,983\\Ninth Month

FROM:\\RepublicSpace\\RegulaBase\\TempQuarters\\Room735964300B\\Kenobi,Knight

Qui-Gon,

You will have to forgive me if this letter seems disjointed. They are keeping me well medicated these days, not that I mind particularly. At this moment, you presence would be a blessing to me for so many reasons.

I had forgotten what it was like to heal without the benefit of a Jedi Master to help speed the process. The touch of your hand and mind would be so welcome as I sit here in the darkness. The bond echoes between us and eases some of that pain. I can feel you coming closer to me with each heartbeat and I cannot make myself regret it in the least.

**Timestamp shows two days elapsed

For all my words to the contrary I long for you and Ani to be here with me. The medical bay is packed with wounded, so I've been moved back to my quarters. Rilka and Lashar come by to check on me, but neither can stay long. Both of them are busy helping to get the base back online before the next attack. It's just a matter of time before they return and I can do so little to help right now.

I listen to dispatch reports and take some incoming calls, rerouting them to the proper people, but that's all I can do. I am restricted to the bed and the med droid would rather I did nothing, but we are so short handed there is no choice. In a way the bandages over my eyes have become my shield. I can feel the ripples through the Force when someone comes to visit me, but I cannot see their expression. It is so easy to ignore them when I can't actually see.

I've reported to the Council and it was hard to tell for sure, but they seemed pleased that you were on your way here. Whether it was to get you out of their way or that the infamous Master Jinn was going to fix the situation, I have no idea. It did make me laugh though when Master Windu suggested that I make sure my quarters were well shielded. We haven't fooled them a bit, have we?

I'll do my best to meet you at the gate, love. Even if I have to steal a hover chair to get there.

Your Obi-Wan

Interlude

It was a slow walk down to the landing bay. He could hear people moving around him at a much faster pace than he was managing. They managed not to bump into him all that much and the murmured greetings were reassuring. It was a good thing he had memorized the base layout before their arrival. Trying to learn all the military etiquette had been hard enough without looking like a fool on top of it all and getting lost. Most of the D'Ka crew knew their way around the bases like they had been born to them. Some of them had been. Born and raised in military families, or spacers by choice.

He had been on plenty of bases, but normally they were regular stations, or government facilities. His experience with the military tended to be far more of the variety of being on the wrong end of a provincial government's weapon. Not being a part of the armed force.

Not far now…

"Knight Kenobi!"

Damn. "Knight Lashar, good to hear you." He kept on walking.

A moment later he felt a hand lightly grip his arm. "Let me help."

"I've managed this far," Obi-Wan grumbled. "But thank you for the kindness."

They walked in silence for a moment before Lashar ventured, "You shouldn't even be out of bed. I'm sure Master Jinn would understand if you weren't there to --"

"No! I told him I would be there. He needs to see me." Choking back that he needed to see Qui-Gon as well. There was no answer except for a firmer grip on his arm as Lashar continued to guide him toward the landing bay. With his free hand he checked his belt and tunics, making sure they were straight. It wasn't much, but he wanted to look good...well as good as one wrapped in bandages could look.

"Five minutes to landing, right?" He could get to a terminal and ask for an audio check, but it was easier to get Lashar to look it up on the commscreen.

"Actually... they're landing right now."

"Ah." He took a deep breath and felt along the bond. Qui-Gon was there, it was the right ship. His mental touch was returned with an incredible wave of love and welcome, as we ll as an undercurrent of anxiousness. It appeared he wasn't the only one nervous about this meeting.

"My master is aboard." He felt startlement from the knight beside him, but Lashar remained silent.

Stepping forward until he felt the scuffed bump that marked the edge of the safe zone, he waited at the edge of the landing pad for the ship. "Any last minute questions before Master Qui-Gon and his padawan debark?"

"I am merely here to greet a member of the Jedi Council as etiquette dictates. And to see you got here safely. I will leave you alone once I have made my greetings." It was, Obi-Wan thought, an extraordinary display of tact for Lashar.

"Nicely said. You're learning." He let his lips quirk up in a grin, despite the pain in his face.

The whisper of sound that was the engines in the enclosed space, a clang of metal and the ship was on deck. Obi-Wan's heart sped up as his ears strained for any sound in the relative silence that followed the actual touch down. Then the soft mechanical whir of a ramp being lowered, followed by two sets of footsteps coming down said ramp.

He ached to be able to see his love. It was so hard to stand and wait for Qui-Gon to come to him. The footsteps came closer. And then suddenly he could see him, even though he was still blinded. Qui-Gon's presence burned like a beacon in the night to his Force sense, bright and shining and strong, illuminating his soul for the first time since what felt like forever.

Maybe it was.

Suddenly he couldn't wait any longer and took a step forward. Needing that touch to burn through him and rid his soul of the darkness that had crept in over the last year. "Master…"

He heard the familiar voice say, "Obi-Wan," and then he was wrapped in the kind of tight embrace he had been dreaming about for months.

It felt so good and warm. His arms wrapped around Qui-Gon and the bond opened up another notch. [Beloved.]

Qui-Gon responded by hugging him even closer and sending wordless waves of love back to him.

Obi-Wan had no idea how long they stood like that but eventually he heard someone shuffling their feet and clearing their throat.

Lashar.

He stepped back, but kept his hand in Qui-Gon's. Obi-Wan turned slightly, hoping to be facing the general direction of the patient knight. "My apologies. Master, this is Knight Lashar. Knight Lashar this is Master Qui-Gon Jinn, and his padawan, Anakin Skywalker." He went to one knee. "Who owes me a hug."

There was a second's hesitation and then a small body slipped into his arms and hugged him carefully, as if afraid that he would break. "You can hug harder than that, Anakin. I'm quite safe for hugging," he whispered into the sweet smelling hair.

Anakin hugged him tighter then and Obi-Wan suddenly felt a surge of healing Force pour into him from the youngster, totally unconsciously on Ani's part.

"Shh, Ani. It's going to be fine." It rocked his equilibrium as the power flooded his system.

He didn't dare do anything to try and direct that well meaning energy. It was enough work to stay upright. But when the flow dwindled and stopped, he felt remarkably better. Even his eyes, which had been aching constantly since he got out of the bacta tank, had stopped hurting.

"Thank you." He hugged the boy tightly and released him. Then he pushed up off the deck and stood again, holding tight to Qui-Gon's hand. An anchor at last.

He heard the soft rustle of cloth as Ani turned to Lashar and bowed. "Knight Lashar," the child's voice piped.

"Greetings Padawan Skywalker. Welcome to Regula Base."

"Thank you, sir. I'm glad to be here. I've heard all about this place in Obi-Wan's --I mean Knight Kenobi's --letters."

He heard Lashar clearing his throat and decided to let everyone off the hook. "I think that Master Jinn can see me back to my quarters if you need to go, Lashar."

"I do have other duties I should be attending to... Master Jinn?"

"Oh, I'm sure between Ani and I we can manage my former apprentice," Qui-Gon assured him dryly, the first words he had spoken other than the whisper of Obi-Wan's name.

"Hey..." The squeeze of his fingers helped mitigate the weak surge of anger. "Well then, Knight Lashar. I'm sure the D'Ka's Captain has the rest of your shift mapped out."

There was a rustle of robes that was probably a bow and then the sound of receding footsteps. Resisting the urge to bury himself in Qui-Gon's arms and never come out again he spoke softly, "Shall we go?"

"Yes." The one softly spoken word held a myriad of emotions, barely controlled.

"Straight ahead, then down the right hand access corridor." He slid the grip of Qui-Gon's hand to his forearm.

Was that a tremor he felt in the fingers that wrapped around his arm?

"I know," Ani said. "I looked at the station's specs on the trip here so I wouldn't get lost." Obi-Wan could hear the smile in the boy's voice.

"Good planning, Padawan. Why don't you lead the way for us?" He wrapped his free hand over Qui-Gon's fingers. [Five minutes, love.]

Anakin acknowledged the request happily and the started back towards Obi-Wan's quarters. Qui-Gon's ongoing silence bothered him, but he needed to get back to his quarters before he fell down.

Or Qui-Gon exploded.

And either event would surely precipitate the other as well. All the more reason to get behind closed doors as soon as possible. Another dozen steps and they were at his door. He fumbled out the card key and it dropped out of his hands and hit the floor.

Anakin ducked down and grabbed it before either of the two elder knights could make a move. "Thank you." Obi-Wan held out his hand for it and felt it being pressed into his palm. The sensation of cool air brushed against his face as the door slid open. He waved Ani in. "Box, sweet box."

"It's not that bad," Ani said. "My room back on Tatooine was smaller." There was a short pause and then he asked, "Would it be okay if I looked around the base some? I promise I won't get into trouble."

Another short pause before Qui-Gon spoke. "All right, but stay in this section." His voice was unusually hoarse.

"Yes Master," Anakin answered solemnly. The boy squeezed Obi-Wan's arm then the door swished open and shut again, signaling his departure.

Obi-Wan's hand slid up Qui-Gon's arm, along his shoulder, and tangled in the hood of his robe. He grumbled softly, "Want to touch you…"

He was abruptly yanked forward into Qui-Gon's arms and then Qui-Gon's mouth was covering his in a searing kiss. Lips devoured fiercely, as he tasted his lover for the first time. It felt so right, so alive to be tangled together like this. Obi-Wan dove into the kiss wholeheartedly, drawing on the bond between them and his arms to pull them together even tighter.

[Obi-Wan...] It was barely breathed into his mind and the three syllables said everything he needed to hear.

He returned the caress. [Qui-Gon, my love.] The desperation he felt bubbling up inside of his former master scared him. [We are together now.]

[Too close. I almost lost you when I had barely found you.] Qui-Gon buried his face in Obi-Wan's hair.

[But you didn't.] Obi-Wan soothed the trembling muscles of Qui-Gon's back with the warmth of his hands. He whispered it again aloud, "You didn't lose me. There is no death."

Qui-Gon snorted. "Somehow that doesn't sound as reassuring when you're saying it to me instead of the other way around."

He couldn't help the snicker. "Yes, Master." Obi-Wan grinned and let his fingers slide up into the long silky hair, gently massaging the older man's scalp.

He heard a contented sigh. "And I thought I was coming here to comfort you," Qui-Gon said, his self-humor evident. "Such are the delusions we tell ourselves."

"But you are a comfort to me." Ignoring the weakness in his knees, he kept up the massage. "I feel much better already."

A hand came up and cupped his cheek. "Why don't we lie down and I'll make you feel even better?"

"Hmmm, but that would mean moving."

"Better move now than fall later."

"Your wisdom is never ending, Master." Qui-Gon chuckled then sighed. "I have missed you, my Obi-Wan."

"And I you." He shifted slightly, and began tugging off his cloak. "Bed."

Another chuckle and then Qui-Gon was gently guiding him across the room towards said piece of furniture.

"What is so funny, Qui-Gon? You did say we should lie down… and the floor is a bit cold for long term rest." His knees bumped into the edge of the bunk. He extended one hand out to find the corner of the wall and then he was sitting down at last.

"I'd pictured you saying that for a very long time, but the rest of the circumstances were always somewhat different." He could hear the smile in his former master's voice. "Lately they involved that uniform of yours as well."

"Well, I'm afraid the uniform is a bit singed at the moment, along with portions of my anatomy. Another time perhaps?" He kept his tone as light as he could.

The sounds of cloth rustling and then the mattress dipped slightly as Qui-Gon sat down next to him. He felt a feathery touch on his forehead as his master brushed a kiss there. "The uniform can be replaced, love. You, on the other hand..."

His hand blindly sought out his master's skin. Soft fabric rubbed across his fingers as he skimmed along the edge of the tunic and then dipped gently into the hollow of Qui-Gon's throat. "Will be fine, given some time to recover."

"And perhaps a helping hand from your old master." The voice sent vibrations up Obi-Wan's fingers. "If you'll allow me...?"

"As it pleases you, Master."

"Qui-Gon. And it's if it pleases you, Obi-Wan."

He leaned forward and touched his lips to the warm skin of his beloved's throat. "It would."

"Lie back." Qui-Gon eased him back until he was laying flat. "Relax. Open yourself to me."

Obi-Wan inhaled slowly, relaxing himself into another's care. The mental shields that all Jedi used to protect their minds and bodies from attack eased open. [I am ready.]

The bond hummed with energy and emotion, echoing between them. Then he felt Qui-Gon's thoughts, Qui-Gon's feelings, and Qui-Gon's soul wrap around him, intertwine with his, pouring warmth and healing into him. He couldn't help the soft moan that escaped his lips. It felt so good to be together with his master again. The new closeness in their bond just increased the sweetness of the sensations.

The flares of agony from his injuries faded to burning embers, most of them guttering away completely as Qui-Gon washed through him. It continued long after the last of the pain had faded, blanketing him in love and affection.

Sleep began creeping up on him and he pushed it away. [Enough, love. Don't drain yourself.] He leaned up on one elbow, reveling in the feeling of health and love that surrounded him, "Kiss me again."

"As you wish," Qui-Gon whispered, then complied, touching his lips to Obi-Wan's gently.

Slow and sweet this time, he drank in his lover's taste. The scruff of Qui-Gon's beard tickled his chin and made him smile ever so slightly.

"Obi-Wan?"

"Yes, love?" He sat the rest of the way up, slowly, then began tugging at the bandages around his head.

Qui-Gon chuckled softly and then his hands were helping with the bandages. "I was just going to ask if I could see your eyes. You anticipate me."

"Isn't that what I am supposed to do? Anticipate you?" It didn't take long and the bandages were gone off his lap, the brightness of the room making him squint even through closed eyelids.

"Just a moment." He felt a slight stirring in the Force as Qui-Gon reached out with it and dimmed the lights. "Try it now, love."

His eyes felt a bit gritty, but one or two blinks and the feeling faded. It took a moment, and then the room swam into focus. Blue eyes, dark with concern and ringed with fatigue looked back at him. "You haven't been sleeping," he whispered hoarsely.

Qui-Gon gave a choked laugh at that. "I couldn't," he said, reaching out and caressing Obi-Wan's cheek. "Not until I knew you were all right."

He captured that hand and held it to his face. "Then come stretch out with me and rest now."

Frown lines wrinkled Qui-Gon's forehead. "I should check on Ani --"

"He will be fine. I asked Rilka to keep an eye on him for me." He undid the utility belt around his waist and tossed to the desk. "Besides, how good of a master will you be if you haven't rested?"

The sash joined the belt. "You make a… a compelling argument." Outer tunic went into the pile and he tugged the inner one open before starting on the buckles for his boots, "You trained me well, Qui-Gon."

"I don't remember ever teaching you this particular... line of attack."

"Hmm, well then I extrapolated it from my other lessons." One boot hit the floor. "Don't move. I want to undress you myself."

Qui-Gon spread his hands and smiled ruefully. "Yes, Master."

He bit his lip and looked rueful as the other boot landed on the floor. "That was rather pushy of me, wasn't it?"

"You have never lacked for enthusiasm."

Inner tunic landed on the desk, the last of the bandages rapidly following. "Now it's your turn." He flexed his fingers and let the grin that had been building the last few minutes out.

Shaking his head, Qui-Gon returned the smile. "Irrepressible."

"Ah, but it's what helps keep you young, my love." He tugged gently on the leather of the belt, letting one hand wrap around the side of Qui-Gon's rib cage.

"When you're not aging me with worry."

"I cannot help but be what I am, Mas- Qui-Gon." Pausing for a moment to reach out and brush the back of his hand along his beloved's cheek.

Qui-Gon reached up and caught the hand, intertwining their fingers. "I love you," he said softly, unadorned.

"And I you." Another gentle kiss and he went back to stripping his lover down to his leggings. Qui-Gon chuckled. "Persistent as well."

"I'm getting the distinct impression I am amusing you today." Long fingers danced down Qui-Gon's rib cage.

Only to be covered and held still by Qui-Gon's hand warningly. "I am just happy to be with you."

"And I with you, though I will be happier when you are wearing less and we are wrapped around each other." He pressed a hard fast kiss to the other man's lips and tugged his hand free. "Now get naked."

Again Qui-Gon stopped his hand. "For the moment that might be moving too fast. I may have healed you, but you still need rest. And, as you pointed out, so do I. Perhaps we should leave some clothing to help resist temptation."

"Okay," he grumbled then brightened. "Then get more naked than you are...how about that?"

With extreme dignity Qui-Gon finished stripping down to his leggings. "Better?"

"Yes," Obi-Wan reached out and let his fingers trace along the warm skin. He lifted himself up off the bunk slightly and pulled back the bed sheets. Keeping one hand in contact with Qui-Gon, he laid back on the bed and held up the blanket. "Join me?"

Gracefully Qui-Gon laid down and curled himself around Obi-Wan. "Always," he whispered in Obi-Wan's ear.

He sighed happily and wrapped the blankets and his lover's arms around himself. "Mmm, comfy," he said around a yawn.

Arms tightened. "Sleep, love."

"But you just got here…"

"And I'll still be here when you wake."

"Promise?" It slipped out before he could stop it.

[Promise, love.] Obi-Wan interlaced their fingers together and let the sounds of their souls sing him to sleep.

A faint snore sounded near Obi-Wan's ear. With that the rest of the universe flooded back and he tightened his grip on the hands between his own. Long hair tickled his shoulder and there was the slightest hint of warm breath on the back of his neck. It was wonderful, even if there was a cramp in his arm.

He shifted slightly and the arms holding him tightened, keeping him from moving away. Qui-Gon did not wake though.

In tiny increments Obi-Wan rolled over so he was facing that beloved face, then started dusting kisses over the skin he could reach. "Qui-Gon," he said softly.

His lover didn't stir. He took advantage of the quiet time to learn the features again, this time as a lover instead of a student and friend. [Beloved…]

He felt Qui-Gon's thoughts respond drowsily. [...?...]

Obi-Wan sighed and drifted back to sleep. It was so warm and comfortable... and nothing hurt… When he woke again, it was to the sound of someone giggling. [..%$&*$..] Maybe they would go away, he thought, snuggling further into Qui-Gon's embrace.

[And what is so amusing Padawan?] The words were fuzzy and faint and Obi-Wan realized that Qui-Gon was trying to shield from him and he was hearing despite the attempt.

"Nothing, Master." Anakin answered, whispering loudly.

Obi-Wan felt Qui-Gon's sigh. [Quietly, Ani. I do not wish to wake Obi-Wan.]

He could hear the barest echo of Ani's reply through the bond. [Sorry, Master. Is he feeling better?]

[I believe so, yes.] Qui-Gon's amusement was palpable.

[Do you always sleep wrapped around the other person like that? It doesn't look very comfortable.] The boy's puzzlement at the way they were arranged on the narrow bunk was obvious.

[The bed is very narrow.] It was true and provided an explanation of sorts without providing any explanation at all. What a classic Qui-Gon answer that was. Obi-Wan grinned and let his awareness creep across the link. [Bed is a generous term for this... thing, Qui-Gon.]

[Box, sweet box?]

[Indeed.] He shifted slightly again and opened his eyes. "Good morning, Ani."

"It's afternoon, actually, sir. At least by station time." He gave Obi-Wan a bright smile. "Your eyes are better!"

"True enough, Padawan. I guess I needed the nap." Carefully to avoid smacking Qui-Gon with an elbow or knee, he stretched. "Yes, I'm feeling much better."

[Are you going to talk to him about the healing that he did?] he queried privately.

[It is not something we can just ignore.]

[I wasn't recommending that you ignore it. I don't think he's aware that he did anything and it's not my place --]

[Obi-Wan.] The name was said with affection, pride and even a little gentle reproach. [Do you really think I would reject any lessons you may have for Ani? Do you think me that territorial?]

[I --No.] He sighed. "Ani, we need to talk about something, but I need to use the fresher and wake up a bit first."

"All right. I could go bring some food from the mess?" Ani offered, looking at his Master for approval.

Qui-Gon smiled. "Thank you Ani, that would be much appreciated."

Obi-Wan let his eyes drift closed again while his master and Ani spoke about dinner. He mumbled, "Don't forget dessert."

Another quick grin from the boy. "I won't." Then he headed out.

[We need to talk about Anakin.]

Qui-Gon sighed and sat up. He resisted the urge to tug Qui-Gon back down. "What? What did I say?"

"Nothing." He gave Obi-Wan a reassuring smile as well as sending a wave of affection through their bond. "I'd figured you would want to talk. Sooner or later."

"And you can't do that while holding me?" he wheedled shamelessly.

"And be able to think clearly?"

Now it was his turn to sigh. "Yes, Master." Obi-Wan sat up and slid off the bunk, then grabbed his tunic and slipped it on. "So, is what happened in the landing bay typical of his Force control?"

"I wouldn't say typical," Qui-Gon replied after a few seconds thought. "But it isn't the first time he's shown these extraordinary surges."

"Is he aware of them?"

"Not on a conscious level."

"Have you spoken with him about it?"

"Of course. But...carefully. It would be very easy to make him start second guessing himself and that could set back his training..."

"Then I won't say anything." He grabbed a bath sheet. "I'll be back in a few minutes. Why don't you relax?" Very quietly in his head, he admitted he was running.

He was stopped from moving away by the hand on his arm. "Obi-Wan..."

"Yes, Master?"

"You never used to run from things." It was said softly, compassionately.

"When they were much bigger and more powerful I did," he whispered, staring at the wall.

"He's just a child." Qui-Gon's voice was soothing. "A child with a great gift, but a child nonetheless. Don't let that gift blind you to the person behind it."

"It hasn't. Most of the time I just see him as a little boy," he assayed a weak smile, "with one of the finest Masters in the Jedi Order."

He was surprised to see the slight blush that caused. "If I deserve such a title it is only because of the caliber of my apprentices."

Obi-Wan bowed briefly, then grinned. "Well that goes without saying, Qui-Gon."

"Irrepressible..." Qui-Gon pulled him into an embrace.

"Stubborn." His voice was muffled against the older man's chest. [Give me a bit of time to adjust, love.]

[As much as you need.] He felt a kiss dropped on the top of his head.

[As comfy as this is, I need to clean up, and eating something while it's hot would be a nice change.] Contrary to the words, he tilted his head back and devoured Qui-Gon's mouth in a kiss.

[I suppose your facilities are sized for only one?]

[That would all depend on how cozy you wanted to get. Ani will be back soon though…]

Qui-Gon sighed regretfully. [Not enough time.]

He smiled ruefully. [And I think we're still too tired to take much advantage of it.] "Besides, I owe Ani a tour and he's been very patient."

"If you're up to it, love."

"I suspect it will be me trailing along behind him as he investigates every nook and cranny. Lots of opportunities to sit."

"I think you underestimate the energy of an excited eleven year old."

"Ah, but he's a compassionate soul, Master. I have only to look pathetic," he smiled and pasted a pout and sighed slightly dramatically, "and he'll slow down. It's that or sit on him."

"You seem to have it all figured out," Qui-Gon observed, chuckling.

"I spent time with the Initiates, and the pout seems to have worked on you fairly well."

[And the truly tragic thing is that it will still work even though I know it for what it is.]

Obi-Wan sniggered. "I'll try and save it for the important things, like your share of candied fruit."

Qui-Gon smiled. "Go clean up, love."

Another long slow kiss and he was grabbing up clean clothes. "Be back in a few." As he went into the fresher, he asked, [Where is your baggage?]

[Still on the ship as far as I know.]

[I think I have something for you to change into, if you want to freshen up. I'm sure that everyone is wondering where you disappeared to.] He felt guilty for monopolizing his master's time.

[I'm sure everyone has figured out where I disappeared. As you said in your letter, we haven't been fooling anyone but ourselves for sometime now.]

[You aren't going to let me worry about this, are you?]

[Certainly. If you are telling me you don't have enough other things to worry about.]

Everything he did have to worry about suddenly flood back in. Scheduling, repairs, personnel rosters, supply, rotations, Lashar... [It's quite a list.]

[You are up to the task, Obi-Wan.]

[Or I wouldn't be here. I know.] He wrapped the towel around his waist and stepped back into the main room, "That doesn't mean there isn't a lot to do, Qui-Gon. Especially since I am healthy again."

There was no response. Obi-Wan turned and looked, and found Qui-Gon staring at him in a very unJedilike way. The temperature seemed to go up a few degrees with that gaze. He sauntered across the room and stared up at his lover. "Qui-Gon?"

Qui-Gon reached out and cupped Obi-Wan's cheek gently.

[Beloved?] He slipped his arms around Qui-Gon's waist.

Again there was no reply unless one counted the gentle lingering kiss.

Obi-Wan gave up on words and just let the love and respect for the man in his arms come to the forefront of his mind, drowning out everything else. Worries, concerns, responsibilities, all faded with that kiss. He reached out with the Force and found Ani, a bright spark of power in sparkling network of people on the base. [Ani, eat dinner there, if you would please.]

He barely waited for the boy's acknowledgement before bringing his attention back to the here and now. And the man in his arms. [Bed, my Qui-Gon.] Obi-Wan shifted and his lover followed. He tugged the towel loose and let it fall to the floor.

[You can finish undressing me now if you'd like,] Qui-Gon offered mischievously. Obi-Wan nodded, fingers slipping to the waistband of Qui-Gon's leggings, letting his lips slide across smooth warm flesh as he went to his knees. He pressed soft kisses to his lover's belly while he untied the waistband. Obi-Wan tugged them down a bit, letting his tongue trace one hip bone as the cloth dropped to the floor.

He heard a gasp and then hands were urging him back up where he was met with a hungry demanding kiss. Fire was licking at his bones now and he let the heat spiral outward. He relaxed under the demanding kiss, letting his lover take what he needed. Another gentle tug and he was next to the bed. Then the world tilted as Qui-Gon pressed him down, blanketing his body with his own.

There was a warm body covering him, soft skin to be touched and stroked as they continued to kiss. He lifted one leg and wrapped it around his master's hip. [I love you.]

[My Obi-Wan.] Familiar hands wandered over his body in a very unfamiliar way. A very exciting way. [I love you too.]

He rocked his hips slightly and felt Qui-Gon thrust in return. Sweat made their flesh slippery as they began to move together. The younger knight gasped as their erections rubbed against each other.

[Yes...] Qui-Gon moaned, thrusting hard against him. Obi-Wan could feel the urgency building between them, feeding off itself through their bond.

[So good...] he gasped as the pace began to speed up, kisses getting hungrier as they rocked together. His leg tightening across the small of Qui-Gon's back increased the pressure on his groin deliciously. Heat redoubled again and again. The bond reverberated with love and passion, deepening with each breath.

[Better... than... good...] Words dissolved into a torrent of feeling, pleasure spiraling upward to a summit that Obi-Wan had only been able to imagine before this moment. He gasped as it broke over both of them simultaneously. Hot waves of pleasure that broke him apart and reformed him with each pulse.

"Qui-Gon!" he screamed before sinking his teeth into his lover's shoulder, muffling the rest of his groans. The moment seemed to go on forever and felt another surge of pleasure through the bond as Qui-Gon joined him in climax. Pulse thundering through his ears, he held his lover as tight to him as he could manage. Sparks lit the edge of his vision as the bond drew him in deeper to his lover's mind, soul, and heart.

Awareness of his body faded away as he felt himself fall into Qui-Gon. Merging with him more fully, the soulbond strengthening. He wrapped himself in and around his beloved's soul, loving and being loved in return.

[Always.] If anything he was entwined even closer, as close as he could get without merging.

[So tell me why we waited so long for this?]

[At the moment the reasons I had all seem dreadfully inadequate.] It was said with wry self-deprecating humor.

[Indeed.] He laughed softly and ran his fingers through the silk that was his master's hair, "And now we both need to clean up. Before Ani gets back."

"Ah. Yes." With a sigh of regret Qui-Gon untangled himself and sat up.

"Shall we see if we can both fit in the 'fresher this time?" He grinned and arched his back in a lazy stretch.

Qui-Gon leaned forward and stole a quick kiss. "Could be an interesting exercise."

"Well, considering we both fit on the bed, then it shouldn't be a problem." Turning, he grabbed two fresh towels off the nearby shelves, and bounced up off the bed. No doubt his energy would fade quickly, but for the moment he was feeling wonderful. He turned back to the bed where Qui-Gon still sat, just watching him. The expression was bemused and he smiled gently in return, "Beloved?"

"Just enjoying the view." He stood up and moved to Obi-Wan's side. Obi-Wan in his turn found himself staring. Tall, well muscled, and moving with such grace, he couldn't help but watch.

"All mine…" he whispered.

Qui-Gon smiled and reached out to him. "Yes," he said simply.

He leaned into the embrace and sighed happily. [The bond… is much more than it was before.]

[Yes,] Qui-Gon said again, no surprise in his tone.

Dark blue eyes snared him. [You were expecting this to happen?]

[Weren't you?]

[I was hoping, yes. But bonds aren't discussed that much, well... soulbonds aren't.] He fumbled to a stop. [I've wanted this to happen for so long.]

[As have I, love. I think I always knew it would happen, even when I wasn't sure if I should be wanting it.]

[Can we skip the whole Master-Apprentice should we/shouldn't we discussion?] He grinned and brushed a kiss across Qui- Gon's lips. [This seems to have worked out just fine.]

[I had noticed that.]

[Good.] Reluctantly he broke the embrace and headed for the 'fresher. [Coming?]

[Fifteen minutes ago.]

He laughed. [And if Ani wasn't on his way back from the canteen?]

[If that was the case I am quite certain I could rise to the occasion.]

[Then I should be grateful for the time I've had. It's unfortunate that your and Ani's quarters are on the other side of the station.]

He was clean, fed, in decent health and with his favorite people. Now if only there wasn't a war going on. With a philosophical shrug he pulled on his cloak and stepped to the door. "Ready for your tour, Anakin?"

"Yes!" The boy bounced in place.

"And I don't have to remind you to stay out of the way, right?" He ushered the boy and his master out of the room.

"Not at all." It was Qui-Gon who answered dryly.

Obi-Wan and Anakin turned in sync to stare at the taller man. "Master!"

"Oh. Weren't you talking to me?"

Obi-Wan glanced at his master's padawan. "I see that things haven't changed much in the last year."

"Not the important things."

He couldn't come up with an answer to that, so instead he held out a hand to Ani and began walking down the corridor. "Anything in particular you want to see first, Padawan?"

"The D'Ka?" Ani asked, eyes shining.

"She's not at her best at the moment." He paused, debating the issue."The poetry?"

"I've been doing all my studying." He turned to Qui-Gon. "Haven't I, Master?"

"He has been working diligently," Qui-Gon confirmed.

Obi-Wan allowed himself a brief nod. "Then the D'Ka it is. This way."

The three of them made their way across the station and to the repair bays. [It looks worse than it really is,] he warned Qui-Gon before the older man could get a look at the damage to the ship. There was a long jagged scar along her bow, clearly from a torpedo. Another oval shaped spot along her middle, where the pirates had forced their way aboard.

Bright arc lights lit up the bedraggled ship in places as beings of all races worked on repairing the vessel. The black scorch marks and bright silver of new metal stood out against the traditional red color of the diplomatic vessel. Raising a hand in greeting, he stepped into the repair bay proper. "The D'Ka."

"Wow..." Anakin breathed.

Qui-Gon's eyes, meanwhile, seemed fastened on the signs of violence, especially the ones that were near the bridge's location. The bridge, where Obi-Wan would normally be standing his watches. Obi-Wan deliberately stepped in front of his lover breaking his line of sight. "Shall we board?"

"Lead the way, Obi-Wan," his lover said, the rueful tilt of his eyebrow the only reaction to what Obi-Wan had done.

It was a standard diplomatic corvette. He and his master had ridden in dozens of them over the years. Yet Qui-Gon seemed to be scrutinizing this one like he'd never seen one before. Three sets of Jedi robes seemed to be drawing quite of bit of attention as well. Obi-Wan heard the whispers racing ahead of them up the walkway and then Rilka was there.

"General! Should you be out of bed?" Her tone was severe. He started to answer and found himself staring into her violet eyes from the distance of less than a meter. "You look better. His doing?" She pointed to Qui-Gon.

"Yes, this is Master Jinn." He leaned back slightly and gestured.

Qui-Gon nodded a greeting. "Ensign." He paused then added, "You wouldn't happen to be Rilka would you?"

"Communications Technician Rilka." She nodded and went back to looking closely at Obi-Wan. "That Master Jinn?"

He blushed. "Yes."

"Good choice." She turned and faced Qui-Gon properly. "Nice to meet you, sir."

"The feeling is mutual, Ensign. I owe you my gratitude for passing on Obi-Wan's letters to me."

She grinned, a mouthful of sharp white teeth gleamed for a moment. "Certainly, Master Jinn. Anytime."

[Can I just crawl under a deck plate now?] Obi-Wan asked his lover plaintively.

[You have nothing to be embarrassed about, love,] Qui-Gon told him.

"And this is his apprentice, Anakin. He wanted a tour." Obi-Wan tugged the boy forward.

"Pleasure to meet you, Jedi Anakin." She nodded solemnly. "They could use you in the cargo hold, General. If you have the strength to spare."

"Anything I can do to help?" Qui-Gon asked instantly.

"Oh no, Master Jinn. We wouldn't presume to ask --"

[It's pack mule work, Qui-Gon. I'm just faster and more convenient that getting a loader. Besides, it keeps me in practice.] Obi-Wan frowned at the commtech fiercely. "Rilka."

"Yes, General?"

"Hush," he finished with a lopsided grin. "If he wants to help, there is no stopping him."

"You are not asking, Ensign. I am offering," Qui-Gon said. "Obi-Wan is still recovering and I do not wish for him to overtax himself."

"He looks fine," she said softly.

"He is. And he will stay that way as long as he doesn't drain himself." He shot a meaningful look at Obi-Wan as he spoke.

Outwardly he only bowed, internally however, [The same goes for you.] "Shall we take our tour Ani, and let Rilka and your master figure things out for themselves?" Another very brief bow and he was walking up the ramp, and making the first turning towards the bridge.

A part of him was nervous about leaving what were clearly co-conspirators together, but far better to do that than let them do it in front of him. True to expectations Anakin oohed and ahhed over much of the ship. It wasn't as fancy as the Queen of Naboo's transport, but had been clearly designed for war. Anakin was pushing to see the bridge and Obi-Wan wasn't sure he was up to that quite yet. The last thing he had seen before the searing pain had taken away his sight was the bridge going up in flames.

Bright lasers, smoke, and the screams…

He stopped and put a hand out to wall as memories rushed back, making him weak. A deep gasping breath and he was sitting on the floor, head between his knees.

[Obi-Wan?] Immediately his lover's concerned voice reverberated over their bond.

[Could you come get me?] He wasn't proud. The memories hurt so much, and he knew he was scaring Anakin but he couldn't seem to get enough air to say anything.

[I'll be right there.]

It seemed like barely an instant later when Qui-Gon was kneeling by his side, blue eyes full of love and concern. It was such a short interval that Obi-Wan knew he must've used Force-enhanced speed to get to his side.

[Can't breathe.]

The screams and pain in his memories flooded his mind. A distant part of him knew it was a panic attack, but he couldn't stop gasping for air. Air that had been so precious when he'd been hurt.

Suddenly he found himself cocooned in a blanket of love which dulled the memories and eased the phantom pain. He gasped for air once, twice more, then the pressure in his chest relaxed and he found himself able to breathe again.

He reached out and twined one hand in his master's robe and let the love permeate him. [Force above, where did that come from?]

[This was the first time you've been back here since you were injured?]

[Coming to the landing bay this morning was the first time I was out of my bed. No, I haven't been to the bridge since the accident.] Another deep breath and he pushed the panic back further.

He felt another wave of concern and affection flow over the bond, [You hadn't had a chance to deal with what had happened. It's no wonder you...]

[Panicked.] He sighed and let his head rest on his knees. [Definitely mind-numbing, bone shaking panic.]

[It'll pass, love. It was just the first reaction.]

[Right.] The adrenaline was fading. Wearily he opene d his eyes and raised his head. "Give me a moment, Ani, then we'll finish your tour."

"It's no big deal," Anakin told him. "I can wait until you're ready."

He nodded. "Thank you for the kindness, Anakin."

Reluctantly he released his grip on Qui-Gon's tunic and prepared to stand. Qui-Gon reached out and took his arm pulling him to his feet. He maintained the grip after Obi-Wan was once again standing however. Looking up into those blue eyes Obi-Wan drew on his lover's strength to deal with what came next. Drawing on the support that he once again believed was his to have. [You don't have to see this.]

[If you have to go through with it, then yes I do,] Qui-Gon told him implacably.

[Fears should be faced.] He recited the axiom tonelessly.

[But they need not be faced alone.] The tone was one Obi-Wan was long familiar with from years of lessons being relayed.

[Not alone anymore.] The thought whispered between them as he changed Qui-Gon's grip on his arm to one that interlaced their fingers. He raised their hands to his lips and kissed the warm fingers.

Qui-Gon smiled. [Never alone. Remember that, love.]

There was a slightly disgusted sigh behind them and Obi-Wan grinned. "Sorry, Ani. Be with you in a moment."

"I could always go ask Rilka to give me a tour," the boy offered.

"She's likely to put you to work instead. And this is something I need to do." Obi-Wan turned and faced the entryway to the bridge. "Shall we?"

Qui-Gon gave him a faint smile of approval. "Lead the way."

The bridge was a mess, to put it bluntly. A third of the arc that made up the command consoles was completely gone. The other two thirds looked to be in decent condition if one excused all the wires, tools and parts scattered over them.

Obi-Wan started pointing out stations he could recognize amongst the mess. "Engineering is the rear. The Captain, or ranking officer sits over there..."

"Where's your station?" Anakin asked.

He swallowed heavily then led the way to a twisted bit of plastic and metal. "Here."

Qui-Gon reached out and touched the ruined seat, expression a total blank. Obi-Wan could not sense any emotions from him at that moment. "I was standing here when the attack came. There was a vast brightness and then I could feel Lashar grab me," he said softly, rubbing his thumb across the back of Qui-Gon's hand. [Beloved?]

Haunted blue eyes turned on him. [It's a miracle you survived this.]

['Twas a miracle you survived Naboo, Master.] Obi-Wan let his love, the very feel of his life-force surround the older man. [Mayhap we should stop tempting fate?]

That earned him a faint smile. [Unfortunately as Jedi, tempting fate seems to be what we do.]

[Indeed.] He felt a tug on his sleeve. "So this, Ani, is where I used to sit. Good thing I am used to standing around a lot. Master Qui-Gon was fond of making me do that."

"Many times there was nowhere to sit," Qui-Gon pointed out.

"Or you got the only chair," he answered smoothly. [Deference to age and all that.]

"At least that way you were the taller."

[Cheap shot, Master.] "Well, it did give you a break from the rarefied air."

"It was either that or look down on you from an even greater height differential."

He let a grin twist one corner of his lips. [You didn't like me on my knees in front of you?]

[I never said that.] He grinned back.

"We all have our burdens, Master." He spared a glance at his master's padawan, who was being far too quiet. "The engine room next, Ani?"

"Okay."

Obi-Wan blinked and looked at the young boy closely. "Anakin? Are you alright?"

"I'm fine." Ani grinned. "I just don't want to interrupt you two."

He raised an eyebrow. "And exactly how much are you hearing?"

"More than you probably want me to. Sorry." Ani looked genuinely contrite. "I couldn't help it."

"It's okay. We'll just have to be quieter in the future," he murmured, trying to ignore the faint blush on his cheeks.

"We'll have to work on your shields Ani," Qui-Gon said mildly, outwardly totally calm.

Ani grinned. "Yes, Master."

"Ahem, this way to the Engine Room." The young knight led the way, carefully leading them around the groups of technicians working to repair the ship. It was slow going and he was thankful for it. Tiredness was creeping up on him again. The commlink chirped. "This is Kenobi."

"Kenobi, this is Knight Lashar. I have Rilka down here in the cargo bay, saying something about Master Jinn taking off on an emergency."

[Let me.] Qui-Gon took the commlink from him. "Everything is all right now Lashar. Apologize to Ensign Rilka for me for my abrupt departure and perhaps you can help her complete the work down there...?"

"Yes, Master." The curiosity was plain in the other man's voice. "Is Knight Kenobi alright? He shouldn't be out of bed and I have reports of him on the ship."

[Nosy. arrogant... busy body.] Obi-Wan resisted the urge to take the commlink back and just waited for his lover's response.

"He is fine. Perhaps overestimating his stamina, but nothing rest won't remedy." He smiled at his former apprentice. "I'm sure he appreciates your concern."

He snarled silently. [Overestimating my stamina? We'll see abo--] He cut off abruptly after a glance at Anakin's look of glee.

"Thank you, Master Jinn. If there is anything I can do...?" Lashar answered.

"Assist Rilka in whatever she needs for now. Thank you."

The communicator was handed back and he tucked it into his belt. "Now, the engine room and I think that is as far as my legs are going to let me wander today, Ani. At least until I can sit for a while."

"We can wait for the engine room tomorrow," Ani offered immediately. "I don't mind."

"Perhaps it is best, Obi-Wan..."

"So everyone is conspiring against me today?" he said softly, then resigned himself with what he hoped was good grace, "Then we shall collect your bags and see the pair of you installed in guest quarters instead."

They left the D'Ka and headed to the Dragonwing's landing bay. In comparison to the D'Ka, the ship that his master had arrived on gleamed with newness. Shiny inside and out, she was a quick sleek vessel that looked like it was racing between the stars even at rest on the landing deck. Obi-Wan shielded his tiredness and made the appropriate greetings as they went aboard long enough to grab the carrisak and debark again. Reaching the other side of the base where the diplomatic guest quarters were located, he palmed open the lock to the suite that Qui-Gon and his padawan had been given. It wasn't huge, nothing on a space station ever was -- living space was far too valuable and rare -- but it was definitely nicer than the cramped and spare room he had been given.

Out of long habit he headed for the tiny kitchen and began making tea as his master stepped into what would be his bedroom for the duration. Anakin bounced into the other smaller room and back again, promptly heading to the console and pulling up the latest schematics and repair schedule on the D'Ka. He watched the boy for a moment then turned back to his tea preparations.

[You don't need to do that.] Obi-Wan didn't need to turn to know his lover was in the doorway looking at him fondly.

[Why not?] he asked absently, setting out three cups.

Qui-Gon's hands were suddenly over top of his, halting his motions. [It's no longer your responsibility. Besides you should be resting.]

One of the cups shook before he could put it down. [As you wish, Qui-Gon.] He called out to the boy, "I'll see you later, Ani."

Once again his progress was halted by those large hands. [Where are you going?]

A tired blink and he rubbed at his eyes. [Is this a trick question?]

[There is a perfectly good bed in the next room. If you don't mind sharing.]

[No, don't mind.] There was something wrong with this, but damned if he could figure out what. He ached and the thought of walking that far made him ache worse, but duty demanded he ask. [But shouldn't I go back to my quarters?]

[I would be honored if you would stay with me.] Qui-Gon began guiding him toward the bedroom.

[It's not a bother?] The heavy weight of the cloak disappeared off his shoulders.

A throaty chuckle was his only answer. That and a gentle nuzzle to the side of his neck. Warm hands stripped him of his clothing and laid him on the bed. It was soft and there was a fluffy blanket that was tugged up around his shoulders.

A light kiss was dropped onto his forehead. [Rest, Obi-Wan.]

He let himself sink into the darkness of sleep, the sensation of Qui-Gon nearby comforting him into a deep healing rest. "Love you," he murmured.

The whispered, "I love you too," followed him down into sleep.

TO:\\RepublicSpace\\Coruscant\\JediTemple\\Room10000\\Jedi Council \\24,984\\NinthMonth

FROM:\\RepublicSpace\\RegulaBase\\Jinn,Master;Kenobi,Knight

[How in the nine hells of Malistaire did I get this job again?]

[I trained you for it. Now hush.]

[Yes, Master.]

Fellow Councilors, you asked for a report on the latest series of attacks on Regula Base and the surrounding shipping lanes.

[Like the first sixteen reports weren't enough.]

[If they had been I wouldn't have been ordered out here. In which case I'd probably be making a report about why I left without permission. This is simpler.]

[And much more fun... but please carry on. I never got to grope you while you typed before.]

[Just remember you have to add your report as well and revenge is sweet.]

[…!….]

My padawan and I arrived a week ago and since then there have been four reported attacks, the last a serious attempt at the base itself. The base lost about twenty per cent of its combat fighters in the attack as well as sustaining some substantial damage to its defenses. Attached is a list of the casualties as well as requests for reinforcements. Reinforcements that, in my opinion, are desperately needed.

[Do you think they'll send them this time?]

[They better, or I will somehow bring the Council out here to see for themselves. The situation is getting desperate.]

[I'm sorry for the reason why you had to come, but I cannot regret your being here.]

[Nor do I, love, nor do I.] **snuggling**

Knight Kenobi's theory of one intelligence directing all the attacks is, to my eyes, almost certainly the truth. The attacks are too organized, too well timed to be just random. It almost appears like it's a... test of some sort. Of how their forces will perform, of how we're reacting, of how effective their tactics will prove in larger battles.

[Which is a lot better than ours so far.]

[Sadly, I agree.]

[It's almost like the Republic army is failing on purpose.]

[If so, there has to be a reason. We'll have to find it.]

[Yes, the trick is not dying before then.]

The situation here, in my opinion, is dire and should be given the utmost priority. We have to figure it out now, before we find out later that it's too late.

[Too late! It's too late now. People have died.]

[I know love. But berating the Council will only alienate them and make them less likely to listen.] **pause** [Why are you looking at me like that? I have been known to be diplomatic when the occasion demanded it.]

[Heh.]

[Do you want to write this?]

[I bow to greater experience. Besides, they didn't listen to me the first sixteen times. Why would they listen now? You stand a far better chance of at least being heard through to the end.]

[Only because they know I will not go away until they do.]

[That is your style. Not mine. Perhaps... Please. Carry on, otherwise we'll be here all night.]

I will be staying here at Regula Base until reinforcements arrive. When they do I will continue with my survey of the surrounding systems.

[No we won't. I have plans for the rest of the night. Which don't include Council reports.]

**blush**

[What, you didn't?]

[Well… yes, but you have to finish first.]

[Nag.]

[Well, isn't that a change from the usual.] **deep, long kiss** [Now write!]

[Yes, Master Obi-Wan.]

There is something Dark beginning to move out here and it is something I believe we cannot afford to be ignorant or complacent about. I intend to get to the bottom of it before I return to Coruscant.

[I don't suppose you could take me with you.]

[There is nothing I would like more, love. But--]

[I know. So, are you all done?]

[I think so. If I continue I'll become more... blunt.]

**delighted laughter** [I didn't know that was possible.]

[You can't have been paying attention the last fourteen years then.]

[I've been distracted the last few years, yes…]

[You certainly did your best to be a distraction. That saunter of yours...]

[You noticed. I was beginning to wonder.]

[Oh I noticed. I'm surprised you never noticed the results of me noticing.]

**long pause**[I'm trying to parse that into Basic.]**another pause**[Well, you are a Jedi Master.]

[Perhaps I should show you the results of my noticing?]

[That would be a kindness.]

**Timestamp shows two hours elapsed

[So, my turn now?]

[I think you best do your report first, love.]

[And they call me an imp.]

[If the name fits...] **sound of a Jedi Master getting bapped on the arm**

Honored Council Members, I give you my brief report on the events that are occurring in this sector of space.

[Nice start.]

[You'd be amazed what being polite gets you]**sidelong grin**

[I'll have to remember that.] **dryly**

The attacks have continued as I predicted in my last report and, in fact, have escalated. They are definitely far more organized that was originally suspected. In fact, at times they are more organized than the Republic Guards.

[Now who's being blunt?]

[Ah, but I'm supposed to be young, stupid and blunt.]

[No one has ever been able to accuse you of stupidity, Obi-Wan.]

[No comment.]

I will not pretend to be very familiar with the Guard in general, but this sector's units do seem to be less well trained than I would expect for a group posted on the edge of the Rim. Replacements are sorely needed, replacements that are trained to deal with combat and diplomacy as their forte. I ask that you reconsider my recommendations. More damage is being done by having the wrong Jedi posted here than if there were no Jedi here at all.

[Although Lashar is actually beginning to shape up nicely...]

[Almost all of his own doing. He just needs someone to thump him once in a while.]

[And you are an excellent thumper.]

[Thank you. I learned from the best.]

[Finish your report so we can go thump some more.]

[Ooohh, Master. Talk dirty to me.]

Knight Lashar is excelling in his new assignment. I shall post a more complete report on him later. I am also pleased to report that my health is much improved and I shall be able to return to my duties full time in the very near future.

[Hopefully you'll be a bit luckier with ducking from now on.]

[I'll work on it. I promise.]

[Good. Are you done?]

[One more line.]

The D'Ka should be back in service by the end of the month. May the Force be with you all.

[Done?]

[Done.] **pounce**

TO:\\RepublicSpace\\RegulaBase\\TempQuarters23907A\\Jinn,Master\\24,984\\NinthMonth

FROM:\\RepublicSpace\\Coruscant\\JediTemple\\Room10000\\Jedi Council

Honored Councillor

We thank you for your prompt report on the matters at Regula Base. It has been many years since we have had someone on the Council active in the field and we find your insights enlightening. Unfortunately we are unable to implement more than one quarter of your recommendations for manpower at this time. Resources must be kept available for other problems, as you are well aware. Equipment is being sent to the base at the behest of the Senate, but once again it is only about one quarter of your proposed list. It is felt that perhaps you have overstated the problem. This has not been an issue with you in years past, but in light of your current situation it is understandable that you might be becoming more conservative.

As always, you have free rein to do as you see fit to investigate the problems. However, Knight Kenobi is not to be pulled from his current assignment to assist you. If additional help is required, second Knight Lashar to your team.

Knight Kenobi's report on the Republic Guard is quite disturbing and we charge you, at the Supreme Chancellor's request, to judge the fitness of the units stationed in your area. Written accounts by the Guard on the units in question do not reflect the reality that we are seeing in other Jedi reports and we need to get to the bottom of the matter. The Dark is indeed growing, but a precise focus has yet to be discovered. Master Yoda feels that perhaps you and your padawan might be the focus, but things remain very unclear. Be wary and ward the boy.

Many other things have come up in your absence, including rumors once again of the Sith in an adjoining sector of space. As it concerns you personally, we would have you know that the D'Ka is being taken off the regular diplomatic schedule and sent to investigate this directly, under the cover of Arms Inspection Tour. At this time only Knight Kenobi and the Captain of the D'Ka are to be informed of the real mission behind the diversion. A diplomatic Inspection Team is already on its way to Regula Base to join the ship's complement. Knight Kenobi is to investigate the civilian population for rumors and news of the Sith while the Inspection Team does the requested verification of arms and armament.

Inform them of their upcoming assignments at the soonest opportunity. We look forward to your next report. The Jedi Council

TO:\\RimSpace\\SenateConsularShipD'Ka\\Kenobi,Knight \\24,983\\TenthMonth\\

FROM:\\RimSpace\\CourierShipDragonwing\\Jinn,Master

Beloved,

So it appears that it's back to letters for communicating. After being able to show you how I feel, it is frustrating to once again be limited to words. But it won't be the first time we have had to make do with less than an ideal situation.

Still I found myself resenting the situation. The distance between us was hard to deal with before, but it's even more difficult now that I know what I am missing.

I find it surprising that I didn't know before. After all the fantasies I've had about you, me, us, I thought I had known what the reality would be like. But it was much more wonderful than I had ever imagined. Ah, well. It is fuel for new fantasies at least.

I miss you, love. Our time together was far too short. Though, I admit, anything less than eternity would be too short. It does not help that you are on a potentially dangerous -- even deadly --mission with little or no backup. And there is no need for you to point out that the mission I am on also has the potential to turn dangerous. I, at least, have backup. Lashar's diplomatic training may be lacking somewhat but he is quite a competent warrior.

Besides, I am not the one who is going after a Sith.

I know you don't need me to tell you, but please, tread very softly, Obi-Wan. If there are Sith out there, I am sure they won't take kindly to anyone prying. The two of us, especially, know how dangerous a Sith can be. Perhaps I am being overprotective, but humor your master. I could not stand to lose you. Please remember that and take it into consideration before you take any unnecessary chances.

As for my own mission, while I haven't found or seen anything blatant there is a definite undercurrent of... something. The attitude of many of the Guard seems to border on the derisive, both towards us and towards the people they are supposed to protect. And I keep sensing things being hidden, secrets kept, truths left unsaid.

All in all I have a very bad feeling about what is happening. And fear what it is leading up to.

We are docking now for yet another inspection. So I will end this. With any luck we will be together again soon. Until then, as always, you have my love, my heart and my soul to carry with you.

Love always,

Your Qui-Gon

TO:\\RimSpace\\CourierShipDragonwing\\Jinn,Master \\24,983\\TenthMonth\\

FROM:\\RimSpace\\SenateConsularShipD'Ka\\Kenobi,Knight

Your letter brightened my day. Everyone but myself and the Captain are bored out of their minds, as you can well imagine. It's making them complacent and I can't tell them why not to be. The D'Ka seems less… infected with the Darkness than the rest of the fleet and I am thankful for that. Perhaps its when they came into service or who they report to?

I wonder if I got this assignment because of our work on Naboo, or if I was the most likely to survive. You are much stronger in the Living Force than I am. I get the feeling that you would know long before I did if the Sith came near me. If I find the abomination it will be through detective work and sheer stubbornness. Speaking of which, I've found a definite trail and the hunt is on. No telling how long it will take to track it to the proper end though. The Sith seems to have criss-crossed the sector and I don't know why. If I knew why I could predict his actions better.

Rilka suspects something of course, though I wonder if it's just a guilty conscience on my part or she is always that suspicious and I never noticed. Though the love bite on my neck that you gave me that last morning must have been visible, because she pointed and giggled. You told me that you couldn't see it between the hair and the collar. Not that I minded, really.

Except where my duty is concerned you will find that I am cautious. As I have always been. Being with you, in all senses of the word, has made me long for more. On the other hand, the sooner we solve our respective mysteries the sooner we can find a bit of time for ourselves. Is it wrong to want a bit of you for myself and not share it with the Council or Ani? A time when we can just be Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon. Two lovers.

You must be strong of spirit and heart, love. Know that I love you, and that we are never truly parted. You are the Light in the Darkness to me, and have always been so.

Your Obi-Wan

"But you can't leave yet. He's not well enough!"

The Jedi Master just looked at her, his expression of calm not changing. Sometimes that air of calm really infuriated her. What would it take to get to through to him... "Tell me why, at least."

"The Council ordered me. I have no choice." There was no more emotion in his voice than there was in his expression.

What a big lump. How could Obi-Wan love this statue of a man? She growled, "Oh, like you had a choice in coming here in the first place. Right."

The mask slipped a little and he growled back, "Do you think I want to leave? To leave him?"

"Finally, some honest answers." She leaned back against the wall. "So, why did you hunt me up instead of spending your time cuddled up with the General?"

"Obi-Wan and the D'Ka received orders as well."

"Scuttlebutt said we would have orders back out to the rim in a few days." Rilka raised a thin blue eyebrow. "And you haven't answered my question yet."

Qui-Gon met her gaze searchingly. "You care for Obi-Wan."

She nodded cautiously. "He is easy to care about."

The man's cool visage slipped some more, enough to let a faint smile touch his lips. "Indeed."

"I see why you are a senior diplomat, Master Jinn." Rilka grinned ruefully. "Now, get on with what you want. Before he comes looking for us."

"I need your help."

"Doing what?" No telling what the Jedi wanted her to do…

"I can't tell you what the D'Ka's real mission is, but it is going to affect Obi-Wan. I don't want him to get so wrapped up in it that he neglects his own care."

Every muscle went tense. "Real mission? This arms inspection tour isn't legitimate?"

He just looked at her.

"Secrets. Bah." A deep breath to push the irritation away, she'd take it out on a blast panel later with a blow torch. Bluntness had worked with these Jedi so far, so she kept right on with it. "You want me to look after your mate?"

Qui-Gon nodded. "Yes."

"Make sure he eats, sleeps, the usual things?" No assumptions here.

"That may be more difficult than you expect."

"No worse than he was in the medbay." She waved her hand.

"Ah, yes. You were there for him then. Thank you." Then the Jedi continued almost diffidently, "How badly hurt was he?"

"Are you sure you want to know?"

"I need to know." Softly. "Please."

"If Lashar hadn't grabbed him when he did, " she closed her eyes and remembered, "you wouldn't have a mate. In fact you probably wouldn't have a body to mourn over."

Qui-Gon looked off into the distance. "I saw the remains of his station."

"He was looking right at the wall when the blast hit, almost like he could see it coming. That's why his eyes…"

"It's possible he did sense it coming," Qui-Gon said absently, then fixed his gaze once more on her. "It was more than just his eyes though wasn't it?"

"Yes. Internal injuries, and some broken bones. He was in the bacta for five days and in the medbay for another 4. He only got out because he insisted it was too noisy and he could look after himself." She felt her lips turn up ruefully. "He pouted at me. What could I do?"

Again the Jedi smiled faintly. "I was hoping he'd grow out of that expression. No such luck."

"A potent weapon. One thinks that perhaps he uses it to great effectiveness on certain Jedi Masters." She grinned.

"One would not be wrong." The smile became less faint.

"And is there any way to mitigate its effect?" She gestured for them to walk down the hallway.

"Not that I have so far discovered," Qui-Gon said.

"And how do your propose I force him to take care of himself? He pouts and it's all over."

"Never underestimate the power of sneakiness."

She grinned. "Oh? Do tell."

TO:\\RimSpace\\CourierShipDragonwing\\Jinn,Master \\24,983\\EleventhMonth

FROM:\\RimSpace\\SenateConsularShipD'Ka\\Rilka,Ensign

Greetings Master Jinn

I didn't anticipate having correspondence with you about our last conversation, but then I know that he has been busy the last two weeks, so I decided to write you. No doubt he has been leaving things out again.

I don't know what it is that he is hunting, but whatever it is, it haunts him. He doesn't sleep well most nights that we are on planet. Only when we are traveling between stops does he seem to relax.

When he does relax though, there is an inner peace that he didn't have before. I'm not sure what changed between you when you came to visit, but whatever it was, as a friend of the General's I wish to thank you.

There is a profound peace to him now that wasn't visible before. He certainly smiles more and he even comes out of that shell of his to joke and tease me sometimes. I'm afraid we have quite the rivalry going. Half the crew thinks we are sleeping together, which is ludicrous. He's more a sword brother than someone I would bed. Besides, he belongs to you, heart and soul. He doesn't disabuse anyone of the notion that we are together though. I think he enjoys having the joke over on everyone else. There is this little glint in his eye that makes me faintly worried.

Last night at dinner he kissed my hand as he left the table. You could have heard a pin drop. The rogue!

Of course this means I can't get anyone else on the crew to look at me twice. That fearsome Jedi reputation, when I know better. Having seen the two of you together I wonder if the Jedi's greatest secret is that they are all mushy romantics at heart.

On a more practical note, he's gained back nearly all the weight he's lost and he mentioned something about successfully completing the Fifteenth Form yesterday in his exercise session. I nodded and probably looked a bit bewildered.

He took pity of my ignorance and said it was a level of expertise in a lightsaber kata that he'd been working on for several years now. I get the feeling he mentioned it, perhaps knowing that I would tell you.

The General doesn't miss much.

Oh, and he and the Council are apparently going around and around about something. Most of the bridge crew has learned to steer clear of him on report days. It's the closest I've seen him to angry about something. You should have seen his face when I left the chocolate bar at his station last week. It cleared that bad mood right up. He grinned at me and raised an eyebrow. I have no doubt that he knows that you spoke to me. Ah, well... something for you to discuss when next you meet in person.

By the way, he's wearing the uniform again. I see why you like it so much. Form, function and fantasy all in one tailored package.

Respectfully shameless,

Rilka

TO:\\RimSpace\\SenateConsularShipD'Ka\\Kenobi,Knight \\24,983\\EleventhMonth\\

FROM:\\RimSpace\\CourierShipDragonwing\\Jinn,Master

My Dear Obi-Wan:

Another day, another inspection. At least that's the way it feels.

There is definitely something going on with the Guard. If they had nothing to hide they wouldn't be keeping me shuffling from base to ship to ship to base so quickly that I don't have time for anything but the most cursory of inspections.

I have attempted to be diplomatic up until now but I am rapidly reaching the end of my already strained patience. The longer this goes on, the longer I am kept from your side. Not that I doubt your skills or your abilities, but with Sith involved I would much prefer to back you up.

Hopefully, I will be able to join you soon; I have put my foot down and demanded a meeting with General Ayboshi, the Republic Officer in charge of this sector's forces. My first request was ignored. As was my second. And my third. But persistence does eventually pay off. We are heading towards the General's flagship, Jewel of Coruscant, as I write this for just such a meeting. I promise you Obi-Wan, I will get to the bottom of what is going on with the Guard before I leave the General's ship.

I hear you have mastered the Fifteenth Form; well done my former padawan. I look forward to seeing you perform it... preferably in your uniform if at all possible. There is a good chance, after all, that you will need to fight wearing it so you should get used to moving through the katas with it on.

What was that? Ulterior motive? Me? Would I do that?

Well, yes, I suppose I would. Where you are concerned at least.

Force, I miss you Obi-Wan. If I knew this separation would be this hard I would never had agreed to the Council's orders. Though I must admit it does give me added impetus to wrap this up as quickly as possible.

Speaking of which, the Dragonwing just came out of hyperspace. We will be docking with the Jewel of Coruscant soon, I had best make ready for the upcoming confrontation. For I have no doubt that that is what it will be: a confrontation instead of a simple meeting. I will make it that for I do not intend to be put off any longer.

I fear this letter so far must seem rather dull. I apologize for that, but I am a bit preoccupied. I will continue it when I return from the other ship. Hopefully I will be in a more congenial mood.

**Timestamp reflects 8 hours passing

Obi-Wan? This is Anakin. Master Qui-Gon always said to contact you if something ever happened to him. Well it has. He and Knight Lashar have been arrested by the Guard. They're saying that Master Qui-Gon killed General Ayboshi and that it is  all a Jedi plot to take over the Guard! The only reason that I wasn't arrested as well is because of my age. I made sure to look as harmless as I could when they came aboard the Dragonwing. Even though I wanted to... to...

I know a Jedi isn't supposed to get angry or hate but I have been doing both. I'm scared, Obi-Wan. They won't let me see Master Qui-Gon or even Knight Lashar and I don't know what they are going to do to them. I know that they haven't contacted the Jedi Council and aren't planning to -- I overheard them giving the order for a communication blackout. It's going to take some doing to even get this message out but I think I can fix something up. I used to have to hide my tinkering from Wattoo all the time and he was a lot more observant than these guys.

I know I should send a message to the Council as well but... something is telling me not to. That would be a bad idea. Master Qui-Gon is always telling me to listen to my instincts so that's what I'm going to do. If you think the Council should know you can forward the information.

I'll try and leave a 'back door' open in the Dragonwing's communications so that you can send a message back. Just send it at the same frequency as you receive this. Whoops, I hear the guards coming back, probably for another search of Master Qui-Gon's quarters. I gotta go. Ani

Burst Messages on the Dragonwing's Communication Console: Frequency AA54C\\EleventhMonth\\18thDay\\23:30

Ani, I'm on my way. Even if I have to steal a shuttle, I should be there in the next thirty six hours, at most. Don't go anywhere, don't fight them. Contact me if they move you or your master from those coordinates. It will all be fine. I promise you.

\\EleventhMonth\\19thDay\\03:42

Ani, I'm in a fast courier ship named the Venturer. A small four man vessel. Managed to make it an official visit by dint of persuasion. Look for me to arrive in twenty hours. Meditate and recall every detail of what has happened. I'll need to know, and it's good practice for you.

\\EleventhMonth\\19thDay\\20:11

Ani, change into a clean uniform, eat something, and be waiting for me on the Landing Deck if you can. Send a reply so I know if you've received my messages. Also, any updates on what is going on so I am prepared. Be ready, Padawan, its an important mission and we need to be prepared for anything.

Obi-Wan closed his eyes and concentrated on the bond again. Closer and closer he came to his beloved. Qui-Gon was disturbed and upset, but only faintly so, as it should be with a Jedi Master. He sent love and reassurance as strongly as he could along the bond. A happy sigh was released into the otherwise silent cockpit when he felt it returned.

Qui-Gon knew he was coming. It would all work out eventually. Now what he needed was information. He pulled up the Fleet records again and started reading personnel information as fast as he could memorize it.