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Back to part 1.

Qui-Gon woke at his usual early hour. Obi-Wan was still laying half on top of him, asleep. He smiled to himself. Oh, yes, he could easily get used to this. Obi-Wan fit against him so well, as if he had been made to.

He fought back the desire to ravish the man again. Using a touch of the Force, Qui-Gon made sure Obi-Wan would remain sleeping as he slipped out of bed and dressed. He looked longingly at the firm form sprawled in slumber.

If this idea worked. . .

Qui-Gon picked up his outer robe and strode out the door.

Obi-Wan stepped off the lift and headed for the Senate offices. He had been requested by the Senator and had left Kay and Qui-Gon to handle the search. Something felt off about leaving them, but one did not tell the Senator ‘no'.

Guards opened the outer chamber doors and motioned Obi-Wan through, but the inner doors swung open on their own. The young man entered, stopping just inside the door. The room appeared empty.

"Knight Kenobi, I've been expecting you."

Obi-Wan turned towards the voice to see Chancellor Palpatine step out from the shadows in a corner of the room.

"Pardon me, Chancellor." The knight bowed. "I hadn't been informed you were here. I thought it was the Senator who had called for me."

"It was I, my dear boy. The Senator is indisposed."

There was something . . . slimy about the way he said it that made Obi-Wan repress a shudder. "What may I do for you, Chancellor?"

"My condolences at the loss of your master. I understand your injuries were too severe to attend his funeral. How are you fairing now?"

"I am well, thank you."

"That is good to hear." Palpatine's lips quirked into a half smile. "I wanted to thank you for what you did for Naboo. We could have been lost to the Trade Federation."

"The Jedi are here to serve. I was only doing my duty."

"Ah, a modest man. But then you Jedi are raised that way, aren't you." The chancellor began a slow circle around the knight. "They say it was a Sith you killed. Is that possible? Aren't the Sith extinct?"

"The Dark Side of the Force is never absent."

"But the Sith?"

"It seems they have returned." Obi-Wan felt like a bug being examined. The chancellor was moving closer as he circled, eyes raking from head to toe. Once again, the young man regretted getting up this morning. After waking, he had lain in Qui-Gon's bed, breathing the lingering scent of him; feeling the comfort of his Force signature. Now he was being ogled by someone who made him decidedly uncomfortable. I have a bad feeling about this.

"You must be commended for defeating such an enemy, and while inured no less."

"Thank you, sir."

"I had such high hopes for Maul, but now I can see I chose the wrong apprentice. You will make a much better one."

The confusion was evident on Obi-Wan's face. He had to have heard wrong. Because if he hadn't, that would mean . . .

"Yes, my boy. I am the master your precious council seeks. However, I am a master without an apprentice, thanks to you. And you are an apprentice without a master. It's a perfect solution, don't you think?"

Obi-Wan moved quickly, bringing his lightsabre to bear. Just as quickly, he found himself without it; the chancellor examining its construction.

"Very nice. Your master's, I believe? Still, it's a bit limited. Maul's ‘sabre had more reach, as you are aware. I'll teach you to how to use one."

"Never! I'm not going to join you!" The knight postured in defiance.

"Oh you will, or you will die." Palpatine smiled sadistically.

Obi-Wan felt the Force grab him and a crushing grip, holding him still, squeezing the breath from him. If those were his only choices and there was no other option, he knew what his answer was. "Then I'll die," he spat out with what little air he had left.

The pressure suddenly disappeared and Obi-Wan fell to the floor, gasping.

"It's not going to be that simple." The chancellor sighed. "No. Simple would have been getting a hold of you as a child as I did Maul. Your Jedi training is too ingrained for you to make an informed decision right now."

Obi-Wan gathered strength and launched himself at Palpatine in the hopes of catching the Sith master off guard and regain his lightsabre. All he succeeded in doing, however, was getting himself suspended in mid-leap.

Palpatine shook his head, tsking. "Predictable. But you underestimate my power, boy." He set aside the lightsabre and reached out to stoke his fingers lightly down the young man's right thigh; small blue tendrils of electricity passing through leggings to dance along scar tissue.

As his leg tensed and twitched, Obi-Wan's face contorted in pain. A strangled scream passed through clenched teeth.

Qui-Gon stepped away from the group of parents and children. The pull from the half formed bond had been bothering him since Obi-Wan had left to speak with the Senator, but the last few minutes he'd had the strong feeling that something was wrong.

His frown deepened.

Now that he concentrated on it, he could definitely feel that Obi-Wan was deeply stressed and in pain.

Suddenly that pain increased a hundred fold.

//Obi-Wan!// Qui-Gon yelled out mentally upon feeling the agony the young knight was in.

Obi-Wan thought he heard Qui-Gon's voice. He knew it had to be a figment of his imagination, something brought on by the pain, but right now he preferred to latch onto that illusion. It helped him center and bleed off some of the pain into the Force. //He's here!//

Qui-Gon was surprised to hear a reply. They shouldn't be able to speak mentally; not until they were fully bonded. But this new phenomenon would have to wait for examination later. There were more pressing matters to attend to. //Who? What's happening?// he asked even as he quickly headed for the senate offices using Force enhanced speed wherever possible.

"We will have to work on that leg so it isn't such a liability." Palpatine spoke as though he were noting the colour of the sky. The electricity stopped as he pulled his hand away.

Obi-Wan sagged in the Force hold still containing him; his breath coming in pants. Qui-Gon's voice sounded in his head again and he laughed. Out of relief or insanity he wasn't sure.

The chancellor quirked an eyebrow at him. "I'm glad you are amused."

//Sith master. Palpatine. Attacking.//

//Palpatine? Sith?! Hang on, Obi-Wan! I'm coming!//

//No! My vision! You'll die!//

"I'm sure I can't count on your cooperation, so I'm going to have to render you unconscious. Then, as a guest in my home, we'll discuss your future." The chancellor's hand reached for the knight's head. "I could just use a Force suggestion, but I do so love seeing people in pain." Electricity danced on his fingers.

Despite the warning, Obi-Wan could still feel Qui-Gon getting closer. Was it illusionary or was he really here? If it was true he only had seconds. //No, Qui-Gon! Stay away!//

//No!// Qui-Gon crashed through a window just as he felt the sharp agony from Obi-Wan.

Palpatine turned, hand still outstretched. The Jedi master ducked and rolled away from the arcing lightning, lightsabre blocking what he couldn't avoid.

The Sith master roared with anger. "You will not escape!" He turned more dark Forces against Qui-Gon and captured him, holding him immobile. Palpatine gloated as he approached the bearded man. "You will not succeed. The Jedi will fall!"

"The Jedi have stood for ten thousand years. We will be here for another ten thousand."

"Big words coming from someone about to die." He touched Qui-Gon's chest, sending electricity to the Jedi's heart.

Half conscious, Obi-Wan witnessed this through a haze. He felt the pain and his mind reeled.

His vision was coming true.

He was incapable of doing anything to save Qui-Gon's life.

He was helpless again and another man would die because of it.

No.

NO.

NO!

He couldn't give up.

I am a Jedi.

I must try.

The knight twitched in frustration and found the hold on him loosened. Palpatine was distracted! Obi-Wan wiggled harder. His desperation increased as the link in his mind faded. "No!" The young man dropped to the floor, freed. He threw himself towards his lightsabre knowing his leg wouldn't hold up for long.

"Ah, my pet. Just what do you think you're doing?"

Obi-Wan froze; his body sprawled face down over the carpet and a turned-over chair. His own breathing was harsh in his ears. His heart was pounding in his chest. He tried to calm both, reaching out for the Force. The darkness from the Sith swirled around him, making it difficult to find the Light. When he did, he grabbed on mentally and pulled it to him; willing it to fill him as he lay there waiting.

"Nice try. You do have spunk. I look forward to carving it out of you."

The chancellor's boots came into Obi-Wan's view. He held himself still as he waited. Not yet . . . not yet, he whispered behind mental shields.

Palpatine bent over and grabbed the former Padawan's loosened braid. "Nice leashes, these, but another liability. Come on, my boy." He tugged hard, pulling Obi-Wan's head up.

The knight went with it until his body no longer covered his hand.

The Sith master just barely saw the flash of silver before he felt the ‘sabre hilt touch his chest. He Force pushed Obi-Wan away from him --

-- a second too late.

Obi-Wan watched from where he lay slumped against the wall. The Dark Being stood motionless; a shocked expression on his face. A small tendril of smoke drifted from the charred mark over his heart. Slowly, as if in a dream, he crumpled to the floor.

Obi-Wan let out the breath he had been holding. He blinked to clear the distortion in his vision and felt liquid drip down his cheeks. It was then that he realized his breaths were sobs.

//Qui-Gon!// he called as he pulled himself to his knees and crawled towards the crumpled form of the Jedi master. Obi-Wan could feel nothing from him, nor was there an answering call. "NO! Qui-Gon!" He gently moved the larger man's head and shoulders into his lap. "Please, Qui-Gon. Don't leave." He rocked softly, slipping his hand inside the master's tunic, palm over the still heart. "Please don't leave me," he whispered, lips brushing Qui-Gon's forehead.

Tears fell onto that peaceful face. The body holding him shook in sorrow.

And the world went dark.

Slowly the rhythmic touch reached through the dark haze of his mind. It finally registered that someone was rubbing his thigh. "No!" Obi-Wan shouted as he sat up, pushing away the hands on his leg.

"Shhh. It's all right, Knight Kenobi. It's only a salve to help the nerves," the healer tried to soothe.

Kay placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "You're safe now. You're at the medical centre."

"What? How--" Then his mind cleared quickly, like a light being turned on. He grabbed Kay's wrist. "Qui-Gon!"

"Shhh, Obi-Wan. He's fine. He's right over there." She pointed to a curtain blocking half of the room.

Obi-Wan was confused. Qui-Gon had died, hadn't he? He remembered holding his body.

He started to rise.

Both the healer and Kay moved to stop him. "Whoa. Where do you think you're going?"

"To see him."

The healer pulled the curtain open to reveal the master's prone form. He appeared to be sleeping. Kay kept her hand pressed on Obi-Wan's chest to prevent him from rising.

"Is he okay? Will he be all right?"

"Yes. He's had a bit of a shock to his system, but with some rest, he'll be fine," the healer answered.

Obi-Wan sighed with relief. His vision hadn't come true. Both Qui-Gon and Kay were alive, though it must've been a close call for the older man. Obi-Wan hadn't felt a heartbeat.

"Obi-Wan, what happened? I followed Qui-Gon when he took off like a womp rat being chased by a skyhopper. I found the Supreme Chancellor dead and you and Qui-Gon unconscious. The senator was found stuffed in the closet, also dead."

The knight let his head fall back into the pillow. It was all so unbelievable. "Palpatine was the Sith master. He wanted me for his new apprentice."

Kay was shocked speechless. A Sith had been that close -- that high in the Republic – and they never knew?

Obi-Wan closed his eyes. A Jedi's life wasn't easy, but this past month had been exceedingly difficult; the last few days nearly impossible. He felt so tired.

A few moments later he heard the door close and all was quiet. Kay and the healer had left them to rest. He knew there would be more questions later, but right now he was relieved to have some peace. Before he could fully rest however, he had to see for himself that Qui-Gon was all right.

Obi-Wan slipped carefully from his bed. His legs were unsteady as he made his way over to the master. His eyes never left the steady rise and fall of the older man's chest, though. He was alive. His vision had been wrong.

Tears threatened to return as Obi-Wan was overwhelmed with relief.

Azure eyes opened and focused on the young man. "Obi-Wan?"

He nodded. "We're at the medical centre."

"Palpatine?"

"Dead." Obi-Wan picked at some lint on the blanket at the edge of the bed. "I thought you were too."

"I think I was. I remember the feeling of being pulled by the Force -- a calm welcoming feeling -- but I heard you calling. Then a warmth spread through my chest." Qui-Gon reached and took a hold of Obi-Wan's hand. "It's hazy after that, but I remember a dream where your hand was over my heart."

"It was," Obi-Wan whispered, his gaze on their joined hands; desire growing from the contact.

"Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon said quietly.

The knight looked up into the darkening eyes of the master. His breathing deepened. Eyes locked, Qui-Gon slowly raised Obi-Wan's hand to his lips and tenderly kissed the knuckles. Qui-Gon twisted his hold a bit to brush his lips across Obi-Wan's wrist, the prickle of his beard a contrast to his soft mouth.

Obi-Wan's gasp turned into a moan as Qui-Gon's tongue started lightly tracing a vein up his arm. He leaned forward as his arm was pulled, a wet trail being left clear up to his bicep. Qui-Gon raised his head, his lips near Obi-Wan's ear, his breath tickling across the young man's cheek. "So your vision was true," he whispered, "but you didn't see where you saved my life."

"No." Obi-Wan himself wasn't sure if he was agreeing, or protesting what was happening, albeit weakly. The tightening in his groin was most distracting.

Qui-Gon looked into smoky jade eyes. The sight was so beautiful, those lips so close . . . he captured them with his own. Obi-Wan melted into it, tongue delving into the older man's mouth.

Heat devoured them . . .

. . . and they were lost.

Qui-Gon's hands slid to Obi-Wan's shoulders and slipped the hospital tunic off him. Obi-Wan broke the kiss and moved back slightly, letting the tunic fall to the floor, leaving him naked. He pulled the covers off of Qui-Gon and pushed the master's hospital tunic open, exposing the firm, muscular chest with dusky nipples, tight abs, dark curls, engorged penis, and heavy sack.

Qui-Gon pulled Obi-Wan down onto him, a groan coming from deep in his chest as their bare skin met and their erections rubbed together. His hands cupped and squeezed the knight's buttocks. They kissed deeply, rocking together, moans escaping both.

Obi-Wan nibbled, licked and kissed his way under Qui-Gon's ear, down his neck, and across his chest to lap and suck at a nipple. The older man gasped and grasped Obi-Wan's head in pleasure. He twined the Padawan braid around his fingers.

Qui-Gon growled and flipped them over, covering the young man with his own body. "I want you." His breath tickled Obi-Wan's ear.

"Yes," Obi-Wan hissed. He arched against Qui-Gon.

The master raised himself up on an elbow and reached between them, fisting Obi-Wan's weeping erection. He swiped his fingers over the head. As their tongues slid over and around each other -- Qui-Gon's hair a curtain around their faces -- he moved his wet fingers down past the knight's testicles. Obi-Wan raised a leg offering better access for those questing fingers. They found their mark and brushed teasingly, maddeningly over the opening to his body.

Obi-Wan rocked his hips as the light circles continued. He wanted more. "Please," he whimpered.

Qui-Gon pressed a finger into the tight ring of muscle; his mouth latching onto the juncture of neck and shoulder.

"More," Obi-Wan groaned. His fingers dug into Qui-Gon's back.

Qui-Gon obliged, sliding another digit in, gently thrusting and scissoring his fingers to loosen the muscle. Obi-Wan cried out as Qui-Gon brushed his prostate.

"Now . . . please . . . take me," Obi-Wan panted.

The Jedi master lifted his head and looked at the man under him. Obi-Wan's eyes were dilated and his face was flushed with desire. He was beautiful -- and about to be his. There was just one thing. His gaze shifted around the room. "We need something more for lube." His voice was husky with passion.

Obi-Wan pointed to the table beside his bed. "The ointment for my leg."

Qui-Gon let go of Obi-Wan's braid and rose up on his knees. He reached out and used the Force to call the tube to him. Obi-Wan turned over, pulling his knees under him to elevate his hips. He pillowed his head on one arm, leaving his back slanted, his ass high in the air.

Qui-Gon groaned at the sight.

He quickly opened the tube and squeezed some of the salve into his hand then coated his straining erection with it. He tossed the tube in the general direction of his bedside table. He didn't care that it clattered to the floor. Qui-Gon placed the head of his penis at the opening to Obi-Wan's body, one hand grasping the young man's hip.

He pushed in slowly, breaching the willing body beneath him, but not taking the offering too quickly for fear of hurting his love. Qui-Gon bent forwards, a hand moving to the bed for support. He continued inching into the hot, tight hole.

"Yes . . . yes . . . yes . . . ahhhhhh," Obi-Wan chanted, his hands grasping the sheets.

Qui-Gon felt Obi-Wan's buttocks press into his groin and his balls brushed the knight's perineum. He was fully sheathed and it felt incredible. He reached out with a Force probe, wanting to make sure Obi-Wan wasn't in pain. Sensing nothing unusual for this situation, he began a slow, rhythmic thrusting. He would do what he could to make this last, but knew it still wouldn't be as long as he would like. //Oh, Obi-Wan . . . // Qui-Gon sent his feelings of pleasure along this new link.

It was met by similar feelings, which blossomed and spread through both of them. What shields they still had dropped. Their minds joined as their bodies moved together. They gasped as their senses sharpened and perceptions doubled. They were one, both penetrating and being penetrated.

Qui-Gon lifted his hand from the bed, running his fingers down Obi-Wan's back to grasp his other hip. The older man could feel the ghosting of fingers down his own back. The joint feelings were intense and intoxicating. Each knew how to move to enhance the pleasure for the other without asking. Qui-Gon drove into Obi-Wan harder, faster, hitting that sweet spot with every stroke.

They could feel the Force gather around them, filling them as they reached the crest. Obi-Wan turned his head, biting down on his arm to muffle the scream as he came hard. Another hard thrust into him and he felt Qui-Gon's hot seed coat his insides. The master's deep voice cried out above him and the Force seemed to explode around them.

The two men were still shaking when Qui-Gon collapsed over Obi-Wan's back. After a brief moment he gained enough presence of mind to shift sideways a bit, falling on his side, pulling Obi-Wan with him. They spooned while trying to slow their hearts and breathing.

As their bodies returned to normal, so did their perceptions, yet a strong connection remained.

Qui-Gon kissed Obi-Wan's shoulder. "I love you," he said quietly, his lips brushing the young man's ear.

"I . . ." The words sunk in, as did the realization of what had just happened. "Oh, Force, Qui-Gon. What have we done?"

Qui-Gon's brow furrowed. Hadn't Obi-Wan wanted this too? "What?"

Obi-Wan pulled himself out of Qui-Gon's embrace. "We bonded."

"I know." He stroked his fingers down Obi-Wan's arm.

Obi-Wan shuddered and moved out of Qui-Gon's reach. He slammed up every shield he could, causing both men to wince in pain.

"Obi-Wan! --"

"NO!" He got up and strode across the room to the closet. As he pulled out his clothes and began putting them on, he continued, "we weren't supposed to do this; we had agreed not to. I'm marrying Lynsi soon. We can't be together." His heart was breaking. He had to get out of this room; away from this man who had filled his soul as he had filled his body.

Qui-Gon had sat up as Obi-Wan spoke. Panic and dread settled over him. "No, Obi-Wan, it's--"

"It's nothing! We were weak! No matter how much we might want to, we can't be together. When we return to Coruscant, we'll have the Jedi healers do what they can to break this. In the meantime, instead of just trying to stay apart, we shouldn't see each other at all." He turned for the door.

Qui-Gon moved quickly to stop him before he left. He grabbed an arm and swung Obi-Wan around to face him. "Don't! You can't do this to us now! I've sp--"

Obi-Wan Force pushed Qui-Gon away from him, but cushioned his landing. "I'm sorry, Qui-Gon." A tear rolled down his cheek. "I love you," he said quietly, "but we can't be together. I won't do that to Lynsi and I won't bring shame on my family."

Obi-Wan slipped out the door. Qui-Gon let out an anguished cry and a headache throbbed behind both men's eyes.

Obi-Wan didn't get very far before he was surrounded by the Chancellor's guards and a few local police. "Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi of the Jedi Order from the Coruscant Temple, you are hereby charged with the murder of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine and Senator Bates. We are here to take you and Master Jinn into custody."

Obi-Wan sighed and rubbed his throbbing forehead. This just wasn't his day -- week -- or month. Oh sure, he'd just had great sex, but it came at a price. "I killed Palpatine. Master Jinn had nothing to do with it. He was . . . unconscious at the time."

"And the Senator?"

"I don't know. I believe he was already dead, but Master Jinn arrived after me and was soon rendered unconscious. He would not have been able to kill Senator Bates. You have my oath as a Jedi that--"

"Your oath as a Jedi means little in the face of killing the Supreme Chancellor."

"Obi-Wan!"

They turned to see Qui-Gon rushing down the hall towards them. The hospital tunic was open, but he had pulled on pants before rushing after the knight. His hair was loose and wild about his face.

The local constabulary stopped Qui-Gon before he could reach Obi-Wan. "I'm sorry, sir. Knight Kenobi is under arrest."

"Arrest?!"

"As are you, Master Qui-Gon Jinn," the captain of the Chancellor's guards spoke up.

"No!" Obi-Wan shouted. "Leave him be! I told you, I'm the one you want."

"You're not taking either of them." The healer approached the mass of men; Kay beside her. "They're both my patients and still need care. I haven't released them. If you must, you may post a guard outside their door, but I will not tolerate this ruckus in my halls any longer."

The captain frowned. "Knight Kenobi is dressed and appeared to be leaving. He seems to be fine."

"That is for me to decide. Not you."

"No," Obi-Wan interrupted before they could continue. "I'll decide. I thank you for your care, but there is nothing more you can do for me."

The healer's brow wrinkled. "I may not be a Jedi healer, but I am an empath. You are in pain."

"Unfortunately it is something only a Jedi healer can correct." Obi-Wan avoided looking at Qui-Gon, but still felt him wince.

Qui-Gon reached for the younger man. "Please don't--"

"Not now," Obi-Wan growled. He turned his attention back to the guards. "I am prepared to go with you."

His new bondmate spoke up, "myself as well." He did not wish for Obi-Wan to face this alone, or to be far from him.

Looking at Qui-Gon's appearance, Kay raised an eyebrow. "Not dressed like that, you aren't. You don't even have your boots on. I agree with the healer, but if you two insist, then so be it." She turned to the guards. "If you'll wait a moment, Master Jinn will dress and we can all go together."

"Yes, ma'am. Though a couple of guards will go with you--"

"To make sure I don't escape. Yes, fine." Qui-Gon looked at Obi-Wan, a plaintive look on his face. He tried to mentally reach the knight again, but was met with silence; a shield of steel keeping him from all but the barest of information about his bondmate. Qui-Gon sighed and turned back towards the room. Kay and two guards followed.

When they arrived at the door Kay stopped the guards. "You two can wait right here." Her expression just begged for them to argue with her. She may be petite, but like Yoda, she didn't let people walk over her.

The guards nodded and posted themselves outside the door.

Kay entered after Qui-Gon and immediately registered the rumpled bed and the heavy scent of sex in the air. She looked pointedly at the other master as he pulled his tunics out of the closet. He dressed, ignoring her until she couldn't stand the silence. "I didn't realize you two had become intimate."

"Yes."

"That's quite a change from yesterday. The two of you wouldn't get near each other."

"Yes," he said, fastening his belt over the sash. He bent to pick up his boots and had to catch himself on the wall as the throbbing in his head turned into a stabbing pain.

Kay moved quickly to his side. "Qui-Gon?" She helped him sit in the chair. "See? This is why you should listen to the healer."

"She can't do anything about it. Only Obi-Wan can."

"Obi-Wan? I don't understand. Qui-Gon, what is going on with you two?"

He shook his head and immediately regretted it. His skull felt like it was going to explode.

Kay watched him grab his head. "Quit being a stubborn fool." She turned to the door. "I'm getting the healer."

"No, don't. She can't -- it's not--." Qui-Gon sighed. It was hard to think. The pain would have been distracting enough without the added worry about how to get Obi-Wan to listen to him. His fears were returning. He was going to be alone again. He was going to loose what he had just found. He wasn't sure he could survive the loss. Why did he let the young man into his heart? Why had he listened to the Force this time when he hadn't twelve years ago? "Obi-Wan and I have bonded."

"Bonded? You?! With Knight Kenobi?" Kay's mind raced. "Then it's a new bond. It can't be stable yet. That's why you're both in pain. But it shouldn't be this much."

"He's shielding."

"Shielding?! But--"

"I can still feel him, but only that he's . . . " His eye's widened as he realized what the steady increase of pain meant. "He's farther away. He's not here."

Qui-Gon leapt to his feet and ran out of the room.

Obi-Wan had convinced the guards to take him in now instead of waiting for Qui-Gon. A couple more guards and a constable remained behind to bring in the master when he was ready. Obi-Wan really wanted to keep the older man out of it all together, but knew that would be difficult. All he could hope for now was that they remained as far apart as possible until this fledgling bond could be broken.

Obi-Wan continued to release what pain he could into the Force. His shields helped as well, but he still had one Sith of a headache.

The guards had cuffed him and taken his ‘sabre all the while warning him not to do any Jedi tricks to get free. Which, of course, would be easy to do, but he didn't. Obi-Wan wondered why they weren't using a Force inhibitor on him -- or Qui-Gon -- but he wasn't about to question it. Being without the Force right now . . . he couldn't bare to think of it.

So now the knight was being led into an interrogation room -- where a mind reader was waiting.

There was a slight pause in Obi-Wan's stride as he noted this. I guess this will be over with sooner than I thought.

"Knight Kenobi, I am Officer Gaelin from the Krasnow precinct here on Mila'awen. I see you recognize my ESPer badge. I have been requested here by the Supreme Chancellor's guards to do a mind scan on you and Master Jinn. It is understood that this is a delicate situation between the Senate and the Jedi. A fair yet quick solution is desired by all, as I'm sure you would agree." Obi-Wan gave a short nod as he sat down across from Gaelin. "Of course there are concerns that your being a Jedi will taint the results."

"I will cooperate fully."

"I trust that you will, but there are those who distrust the Jedi. The first thing they wanted to do was slap a Force inhibitor on the two of you. Despite the fact that the Supreme Chancellor is dead, they are respecting our laws so your status as first-born has prevented them from doing so. It also seems that your father has been able to arrange some sort of dispensation to keep them from using it on Master Jinn."

Obi-Wan's brow furrowed.

Gaelin continued. "I know it will be difficult for you to lower your shields and let a stranger read your mind, but let me reassure you. I have had training at the Dantooine temple and I promise not to pry further than I need to."

"Fine." Lowering his shields would cause more pain, but if it would end this quickly, he was willing to endure much. Obi-Wan took in a deep breath. "I am ready to continue."

"You do not wish to wait for Master Jinn?"

"No."

"Very well. Concentrate on the events around the deaths of Senator Bates and Palpatine and lower your shields."

Obi-Wan did as requested, feeling the strangeness as the unknown mind slid into his. He knew Qui-Gon was getting closer and could now tell what was going on. The pain level increased, but it was Gaelin's mind touch that was the worst. It felt like a knife slicing through his brain.

Gaelin gasped and pulled out, his eyes wide with shock. "You have a new bond! Why didn't you tell me? It's not stable enough for this yet. To continue could damage it; destroy it even."

Obi-Wan was breathing hard, releasing pain into the Force with every breath. He had slammed his shields up to prevent the mental call from Qui-Gon he knew was coming. "It is an unwanted bond forced upon us. If it were to be destroyed you would be doing us a favour. I was already making plans to see a Jedi healer. Please continue."

"As you felt, the touch of another's mind right now will cause you great pain. It would be better to pursue the information another way."

"No! Continue. Please. This has to be settled now and this is the best way to do it. I take full responsibility for my condition and whatever effects this may have."

"I don't think--"

"Please."

There was such a look of desperation on the knight's face, but it was the appearance of unshed tears that surprised Gaelin the most. "Okay. I'll be as careful as possible. Try to relax and drop your shields again."

Obi-Wan wept silently as he prepared to lose the bond with Qui-Gon.

"NO!" Qui-Gon yelled as Obi-Wan's shields dropped again and he felt the sad goodbye from the young man. Feeling a tearing pain in his mind he cried out, then fell to his knees clutching his head.

"Qui-Gon?!" Kay reached for him as he toppled over unconscious.

Obi-Wan never lost consciousness through the officer's reading. Obi-Wan did, however, lose the ability to do anything but be aware.

He was aware when Gaelin and a healer checked him over and reassured him the effects of the broken bond were only temporary.

He was aware when the guards carried him to a cot in a small, quiet room.

He was aware of the ache in his lower half that still lingered and brought with it undesired, yet pleasant memories.

He was aware of the pain from the tattered remains of the bond as he lay there, waiting for his body to start responding.

He was aware of the shuffling gait of Master Yoda and the sharper steps of the master's Padawan as they entered the room a couple of hours later.

The little boy ran past Yoda and dropped to his knees beside the cot. "Obi-Wan, sir! Are you alright?"

"Yes, Ani," Obi-Wan croaked out with recovering vocal cords. "I will be." He smiled as best he could. "Look at you. A Padawan. Have you been listening to Master Yoda?"

The toe-headed boy nodded as Yoda answered. "Doing well he is. On our way to Dantooine we were, when comm from Master Shon we received."

"I'm sorry to delay your training, Ani." Obi-Wan struggled to sit up.

Anakin helped him lean against the wall. "It's okay. I've missed you. They wouldn't let me see you after you were hurt on Naboo."

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to scare you."

Yoda tapped his gimer stick on the floor. "Enough for now, Padawan. Speak to Obi-Wan I must. Outside please wait."

"Yes, Master." Anakin hugged Obi-Wan briefly, then left the room.

The knight turned his attention to Yoda as the door closed. The old master hobbled closer to the cot. "Believe you the Chancellor's Guards and the police do. Release you they have. Foolish you were. Wait you should have. Prevented this we could have; less damage it would have caused."

"The healer said I'd be fine. I'm already improving." Obi-Wan knew however, that he would never fully recover from the torn bond and his heart clenched at the thought.

"Ah, but what of Qui-Gon? Think of him when you did this?"

"Of course I did! It was because of him that I did it. They were arresting him for nothing and I had proof of his innocence."

"Care about him spending time in custody you did, but care not about the bond? Care not about what do to him the breaking would? In great pain he is."

Obi-Wan looked away. He did care. He wanted to ask how his former bondmate was, but no -- even if he hurt now, he too would be fine.

Wouldn't he?

Still, it felt like his heart was being pierced by a lightsabre. "We were going to break it anyway. We can't be bonded. I'm marrying someone else."

"Want bond between the two of you the Force does."

The young knight fought back tears. "Well, the Force can't have it. I have to follow tradition as agreed to by the Jedi Council. Besides, Qui-Gon doesn't really want me, the Force is only telling him he does."

"Stubborn you both are. Love each other you do, but listen you will not." Yoda's ears lowered as he sighed. "Loved Xanatos as a son, Qui-Gon did. Blinded him it did, to Xanatos' faults. Destroyed him it did when Xanatos turned. Pushed everyone away he did. Saw much in you as an initiate, he did, but afraid to let himself care for another; afraid of the same mistake. Pushed you away the hardest. Now, finally opened himself he has. Good for him you are."

Obi-Wan clenched his fists, digging his fingernails into his palms. He wanted to rant and rave at the unfairness of it all. Yes, he did love Qui-Gon, but fate had overtaken the Force and left them no choice. Rage was not the Jedi way, however. He fought to regain his centre.

Yoda nodded, sensing what Obi-Wan was doing. "Good, good. Mul'Gan taught you well. Hmmmm? Though Qui-Gon--"

"With all due respect, Master, that is in the past. He did not accept me, Mul'Gan did. He was a good master and a good friend."

"Hmmm, yes. Learn well you did. Enough to kill two Sith. One a Master. Great Jedi the Council knew you would become. Sith we did not expect however. Great celebration we will have when return to Coruscant you do."

Now Obi-Wan saw his opportunity to discuss one of the things he had been thinking about as he had been lying there. "About that, Master. I wish to be transferred to another temple."

Yoda's ears drooped again. "Certain are you? Because of Qui-Gon this is?"

Obi-Wan's gaze never wavered, but he remained silent. A transfer would be the best thing for both of them. They could deal with what had happened without the added pain of seeing each other.

The diminutive master sighed. "Consider it the Council will." He began shuffling for the door. "On their way here your family is. Take you home they will."

"Thank you, Master."

The door softly closed, leaving the knight in silence to deal with the consequences of the torn bond. He let the tears flow.

Qui-Gon's eyes were red and swollen as he looked at Kay. "We had mindspeak even before the bond was completed. That's how I knew he was in trouble."

Kay was surprised. Despite her curiosity however, she knew she had to concentrate on the inconsolable master. "You'll have it again. The bond was so new, surely it can be reformed."

"No, no. He doesn't want me. Not this way. I'm just a foolish old man who wouldn't even take him as a Padawan. I let myself fall for an illusion and took him with no presence of mind. I forced him into a bond he didn't want. It's only fair it be broken this way." He buried his face in his hands.

"Oh, Qui-Gon. You mustn't think that way." She watched as his body was wracked with sobs again. "If I had known there was a bond trying to form, I wouldn't have let the two of you be put in the same room. I'm so sorry."

The door opened to reveal Yoda and he motioned for Kay to join him in the hall. She looked back at the sobbing giant of a man, shook her head and then joined the Council member. "Master, how is Obi-Wan?"

"Wants Qui-Gon he does, but says not. Too stubborn he is. Wants new temple assignment instead. Easier to stay away from Qui-Gon. What of my old Padawan?"

"He has told me a lot of what has happened between them on this mission, but I fear he's going to shut down again. If he does, we may never get him back again. It took fifteen years the last time."

"Know this I do. Stop this we must."

"How?"

"Know I do not. Meditate on this we must, but quickly. Not much time do we have."

Kay nodded absentmindedly. She was thinking back on all that Qui-Gon had told her. There was something there. It'd be sneaky, but it just might work. "Master, I have an idea."

Obi-Wan wondered what was keeping his parents. He was about to leave the Constabulary on his own when they finally arrived. "We're so sorry for the delay, son. There was a lot of paper work to cover."

He got the feeling his parents were lying, but he dismissed it to his continuing recovery. After all, what would they have to lie about?

It was what most beings would consider a perfect day. The azure sky was dotted with a few fluffy white clouds. A light breeze rustled the emerald green grass. The bright sunshine sparkled on the crystal clear water.

The young man kneeling on the plateau was oblivious to it all. Once again Obi-Wan was finding meditation elusive. He hadn't been able to meditate properly since Qui-Gon arrived. He had hoped it would improve when Yoda and Ani had left with the master yesterday, but it hadn't. He was not finding peace within a Force that was telling him to shame his family and bond with a man who hadn't wanted him even as a Padawan.

He knew what he had to do, but he still felt torn apart; his heart dying at the thought of never seeing Qui-Gon again, of never being held in his arms, kissed by his lips --

Obi-Wan sighed. That path of thinking wasn't helping.

Though Force assisted, he could no longer deny his love for Qui-Gon. At least to himself. He would have to deny it to everyone else. He would do his duty and marry Lynsi.

Today.

His heart -- his soul -- be damned.

There is no emotion, there is peace.

There is no emotion, there is peace.

Maybe if he told himself that enough, he could believe it again.

Obi-Wan's wedding was going ahead as scheduled; a mere two days after his release from the constabulary -- two days after he had killed the Supreme Chancellor. Even now friends and family were gathering at the homestead for the festivities. He would be expected there soon. By the end of the day he would be married.

The knight shifted on his knees and adjusted his kilt. He had dressed long ago, wanting to spend as much time out here as possible. He had hoped it would bring him some measure of peace. And, at least for now, he could only think of one way to achieve it. Bury it deep inside; hide it behind the thickest shields. How ironic that he would end up just like the master that had turned him away all those years ago.

Alone.

He sighed when he heard a horse approaching. His time must be up.

"Obi?" Yui called from behind him. "Are you ready?"

Obi-Wan didn't move from his position. He continued to stare out over the grassy hills; the sunlight glinting in the copper highlights of his hair. "No."

Yui rolled his eyes and dismounted, berating himself for asking such a stupid question. Of course Obi wouldn't be raring to go. He moved in front of his older brother and knelt down. "Edi and Avi are decorating Transpotter for the procession."

Obi-Wan turned his attention to the lower plateau where his horse had been grazing. His youngest brothers were weaving ribbons through the mane and tail. Yui reached forward and pinned a sprig of tiny pinkish-purple flowers to Obi-Wan's jacket.

The heady scent reached the knight's nostrils and he looked up into his brother's eyes. Yui gaped at the emotionless expression on Obi-Wan's face and the total lack of spark in his eyes. The emptiness froze the younger man's belly. "Oh, Obi. It's okay. It's been--"

"I'm ready now," Obi-Wan interrupted, rising to his feet. Everything is securely locked away. He moved away from Yui as his brother reached for him. He ignored Yui's attempts to placate him and continued, "I have spoken to Sire Conneri. He has approved of you courting Caren." Obi-Wan headed for his other brothers and his now bedecked horse.

Yui's face split into a big grin. "Thank you, Obi!" he called excitedly and quickly went to his own horse; forgetting about his brother's problem for the moment.

"Your first official date is at the reception. Don't forget protocol with Sire Conneri."

"I won't!" Yui laughed.

"He can't! He's been practicing for ages!" Edi joined in.

The four brothers mounted up and rode towards the homestead. The sounds of music increased as they approached and, before long, a cheer went up as guests caught sight of them. With Yui and Edi flanking Obi-Wan and Avi following behind, they cantered to the edge of the garden where the ceremony was to be held and dismounted.

Obi-Wan was quiet and let his brothers greet family and friends and they walked up the aisle to take their places. Over and over, he repeated the Jedi code; his eyes fixed on the priest's pin. He didn't notice the music change a few minutes later, but he couldn't ignore the poke in his ribs.

"Look," Yui whispered.

He supposed he owed it to Lynsi to watch her walk down the aisle. She was giving up a lot for him and his family. More than she should. Obi-Wan turned.

He was stunned as if he had run into a brick wall. His Jedi training kept his knees locked in a standing position, but his jaw still dropped.

Yoda and Kay flanked Qui-Gon. The tall Jedi master was dressed in the traditional clothing of Mila'awen; his kilt and brat in the Kenobi tartan. His chestnut hair hung loose framing his pensive face. Obi-Wan noticed Qui-Gon's eyes were red rimmed and bloodshot. The master looked as though he had slept as little as the knight had.

Obi-Wan was vaguely aware of Anakin trailing the trio and his brother chuckling next to him. His eyes remained focused on Qui-Gon; his heart pounding and his brain stalled.

The masters stopped before Obi-Wan. "Standing in as his family we are. Present Qui-Gon Jinn for marriage to you we do," Yoda proclaimed.

Still staring at Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan tried to make sense of what was happening. Qui-Gon was here before him when he was supposed to be gone. The torn bond was poking at his mind, insisting on being reestablished. This was not possible. Obi-Wan shook his head. "I don't…I can't…It's not…" He took a step backwards but Yui blocked his retreat. Obi-Wan saw the flash of pain in Qui-Gon's beautiful blue eyes before the stoic mask appeared marred only by the redness.

Yoda and Kay stopped the tall master as he turned to leave. "Stay you will. Finished this is not."

Qui-Gon stood ramrod straight, staring ahead at nothing.

Obi-Wan's parents appeared at his sides. "Obi, we know and it is fine. We arranged this for you," his mother, Dia, said.

Somehow the knight's expression was able to convey that he was dazed, puzzled and panicked all at the same time. "Know? What?"

His father, Kei, smiled. "That you prefer men."

Panic won on Obi-Wan's face.

"It's all right. We don't mind." His mother squeezed his arm.

"But--"

"It actually explains a few things," Kei interrupted.

"Like why you've never paid attention to the young ladies whose eyes you catch when you've visited," Dia added.

"Or why you've never mentioned a girlfriend or lover."

"But--"

Dia frowned. "But what we don't understand is why you didn't tell us."

"I--uh--" Obi-Wan looked around at the beings gathered for the wedding, wishing desperately for the ground to swallow him.

"Do you really think we care about that old taboo? It's about time it was ended."

Obi-Wan glanced at Qui-Gon before looking back at his father. "My marrying Qui-Gon is not going to stop it," the young man said quietly.

"No," Kei pointed to the many guests, "but I think we've got a good start."

"What?!" Obi-Wan's eyes widened in alarm.

Dia nodded. "They all knew before they came. They chose to accept it since you're not taking over the business and Yui's children will be the heirs. Those who didn't," his mother shrugged, "well, they're not important."

"Not important? It will affect the family business!"

"Yes," his father agreed. "I won't lie. It will, but I've been doing some research since we found out and I don't think it will be as much as you might believe. But let us worry about that."

"How can I? It would be my fault!"

"It's not your fault who you love. You do love him, don't you?" Dia asked.

Obi-Wan felt trapped. Here was what he wanted being offered to him, but if he accepted it, his family could be ruined. Though there are a lot of people here… His brow wrinkled. "How did you find out?"

"Qui-Gon told us."

Obi-Wan's eyes snapped to the motionless master. "Qui-Gon?!"

"Yes. And he told us about the bond the two of you were forming. Master Yoda says you broke it to keep the family's honour. I wish we had caught you before you did that."

Obi-Wan only vaguely heard what his father was saying. Instead, his attention was focused on Qui-Gon, his ire raised. "You told them?! After I told you to stay out of my business? You had no right!"

Qui-Gon turned his focus to the young knight. Quietly and evenly he spoke, "no I didn't. I had hoped it would be a workable solution to your problem, but I apologize for my error. I misspoke to your parents. May the Force be with you and Lynsi." Qui-Gon bowed, then headed back down the aisle.

Yoda's ears drooped as he shook his head sadly.

Qui-Gon kept his pace serene though he wanted to run. He wanted to be anywhere but here, watching the man he loved marry another. He had tried to tell Yoda, Kay and Obi-Wan's parents that this silly plan of theirs wasn't going to work. Obi-Wan had made it clear, time and time again, that he didn't want an old fool bonded to him.

He never should have opened himself up. He knew it was a mistake when he did it. It's best to never know what you're missing.

But now he knew.

And he would have to live with it.

He would ask the Council to assign him a mission far away somewhere in the outer rim -- alone.

"Shutting yourselves off you both are. Denying the Force. Not letting it flow through you, problems it will cause. Off balance you both have become." Yoda sighed. "Hoped you would listen; trust the Force. But now lost I fear you both will be."

Obi-Wan's family looked surprised and confused. The knight's anger dissipated as he watched the retreating back and saw the puzzled faces of the guests. What he had wanted most had been handed to him by his own family and he had turned it away. Could he really live with this aching emptiness? But, even worse, could he live with shaming his family, even if they approved of Qui-Gon?

The tattered bond was screaming at him. He had always been taught to listen to and accept the will of the Force, but recently he had been fighting it. But it didn't make sense! How could the Force ask this of him when either way he was going to leave people hurt?

‘You may not always understand and things may not always go as you expect -- or the way you think is best -- but trust in the Force to guide you,' Mul'Gan's voice whispered in Obi-Wan's head.

A calming peace filled him as he felt his master's familiar presence. He hadn't been true to his training, or to his master's teachings.

Could it really be that easy?

"Qui-Gon!" Obi-Wan called out.

The master didn't stop or even hesitate in his retreating steps. Obi-Wan sprinted after him, catching up just before he left the garden.

"Qui-Gon?" Obi-Wan grabbed Qui-Gon's arm and turned the older man to face him. His heart pained to see the blankness in the cerulean eyes. He looked worse than when he had arrived. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean it. I panicked."

"No, you were right. It was not my place to interfere with your life."

"As my bondmate it is."

Qui-Gon's voice was flat as he answered, "I am not your bondmate." He turned, reaching for the gate, but Obi-Wan pulled him back.

"I want you to be…again."

The stoic mask dropped briefly, letting pain and uncertainty show through before it snapped back into place. He could not let himself fall again. He had lost that hope two days ago.

Obi-Wan nearly cried. Was it too late? Had he destroyed his last chance with the Jedi Master? There was one way to find out. "I love you." He took Qui-Gon's face in his hands and kissed those lips he craved.

The bond flared at the contact of their skin; the torn ends reaching to reconnect. Qui-Gon melted into the kiss, pulling Obi-Wan tight against him. Oh, this felt so right. It had been a mistake to think he could live without it.

The two men vaguely heard the guests cheering.

//Time for this later there is,// Yoda chuckled in Qui-Gon's mind. //Time now for ceremony it is.// The ancient master lightly clamped down on the bond to cool the desire slightly before there was more seen by the guests than wanted.

//Master!//

The two men's lips parted and they stepped slightly back from each other; smiles covering their faces and love shining in their eyes.

"Marry me?" Obi-Wan whispered.

Qui-Gon's brow wrinkled causing the knight's smile to fade. "What about your family?"

"Now that they know, they seem to want this as much as the Force does. There will be problems, but as Da said, this is a good start," he indicated the guests.

Qui-Gon's troubled expression didn't fade. "That is something else. The Force is what started this. How could you really want me? I'm--"

"A foolish old man who should have taken me as his Padawan years ago, yes I know. Then the Force could've done this gradually instead of thrusting it upon us, but either way we're supposed to end up together. I believe that now. We will also have things to learn about each other, but we must trust the Force to work everything out."

Qui-Gon lightly brushed his fingers down Obi-Wan's cheek. "We haven't been trusting it, have we." Obi-Wan shook his head. "Then I fully put myself into its -- and your -- hands."

Obi-Wan grinned and took Qui-Gon by the hand, leading him back to the priest. Everyone took their places again; much different expression on their faces this time. Yoda smiled and nodded. This was right.

The ceremony was beautiful; the priest binding their hands with a strip of tartan as he intoned prayers of joining. The two men stared deeply into each other's eyes letting minor shields fall under Yoda's mental guidance. The bond joined them enough for each to feel the pleasant surprise when the priest veered from the usual ceremony to announce that they were going to add a small part from Qui-Gon's planet's traditions.

Obi-Wan was pleased that they had thought to include something for the man he was marrying. Qui-Gon was surprised that they knew something from his home's ceremony since they hadn't asked him. Though he soon realized the source for the information when the priest took a small box from Master Yoda.

After the prayer of Endless Beginnings, the priest held out the open box. Nestled inside were two metal rings carved with an elaborate knot design. Qui-Gon took one and slipped it onto Obi-Wan's left hand. Obi-Wan did the same to Qui-Gon with the other ring. Yoda had thought of everything because they fit perfectly.

The crowd cheered and confetti was thrown as the priest pronounced them joined and the couple headed back down the aisle. Several children scurried to block their path, but Obi-Wan pulled some coins from his sporran and scattered them in the grass just off the runner. The children dove for them, squealing with glee. Pipers and drummers struck up a celebratory tune.

Hand in hand, Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon strolled over near the lake and the reception set up there. It wasn't where they really wanted to go, but both knew they needed to stay long enough to at least greet some of the guests.

Then they could try to slip away and complete the new bond.

Obi-Wan gripped Qui-Gon's hand a little tighter and pressed against his side as the bond throbbed against his shields.

//Obi-Wan,// the tall master groaned mentally.

The young knight gasped and looked up at Qui-Gon. //I can hear you! That was real before?//

Qui-Gon brushed the fingers of his free hand down Obi-Wan's cheek. //Yes, my love.//

//But how? The bond is not complete.//

Qui-Gon shrugged slightly. //A gift from the Force, I guess.//

"Obi!" Yui called as the family approached the couple. They hugged the two and welcomed Qui-Gon to the family.

Kei noticed some hesitance when he offered his congratulations to his eldest son. "Is there still a problem, Obi?"

"Well, yes, there will be for some time to come. This will have a lasting effect on the family. And what about Lynsi?"

His mother grinned. "Oh, I think Lynsi will be fine. Edi has expressed an interest in her and she seems mutually agreeable. You may have another arrangement to make."

"And I certainly hope this will have a lasting effect," his father added. "There will be some difficulties and adjustments for everyone, but think of the advancement you just made for first-borns. It will be awhile before it's fully accepted, but it needed to start somewhere. I only wish it had been done years ago."

Something in his father's tone and expression caused Obi-Wan to look questioningly at him, but before he could ask anything, Yoda, Kay and Anakin stepped up. "Congratulations! May the Force be with you," Kay said, a pleased look upon her face.

"Thank you. Now that we're not fighting it, we hope it will." Qui-Gon stepped behind Obi-Wan and pulled his bondmate back against his chest.

"It will. Pleased the Force is. As you complete the bond let all shields fall. Handle the rest the Force will. Meditate together you should when break between physical activity you take. Your balance it will restore." Yoda poked his gimer stick towards the two men. "Four ten days you have, then before the Council you will come." The ancient master toddled off towards the food mumbling to himself about how if only beings would listen to him in the first place…

Anakin shrugged. "Sometimes it's hard to understand him."

Qui-Gon laughed. "Yes, it is." He patted the boy's shoulder. "But he's a wonderful master. Listen to what he says."

"Um, yes, sir. Congratulations, Obi-Wan."

"Thank you, Ani. Don't worry, I'll see you again when we're back on Coruscant." Obi-Wan hugged Anakin who then took off after Yoda. //Four ten days?// Obi-Wan looked down at the ring on his finger, twisting it thoughtfully before he looked up at Qui-Gon. //Will you show me more of your world and traditions?//

//I would be honoured, my love.//

Other guests approached, congratulating the pair until they couldn't take it any longer. The bond called out for completion. The kilts were loose, but wouldn't hide much if anything arose. It was getting harder to control.

Obi-Wan's mother noticed their plight and came to their rescue. She got them away from the current group of the family's friends and led them to the edge of the gathering. "Yoda explained about the bonding process. The last cottage is set for your wedding night." She smiled and hugged them. "Blessings to you both."

"Thank you, Ma, for everything," Obi-Wan told her sincerely before they headed off in the direction of the cottages.

The door had barely closed when Obi-Wan pinned Qui-Gon against it. "Are you wearing your kilt in the true Mila'awen tradition?"

An eyebrow quirked up. "Why don't you find out?"

The young knight chuckled as he nipped at the master's bobbing adam's apple. Slipping under Qui-Gon's kilt, Obi-Wan's hand was unimpeded by undergarments in reaching its goal. Qui-Gon hissed and arched into Obi-Wan's fist. He was instantly hard and aching.

"Ah, nice to feel you're thorough in your research of our customs."

"I wouldn't want to commit a major breach of etiquette." His voice was thick and low.

Qui-Gon slid his hands through Obi-Wan's hair, unwinding the braid and letting the ponytail loose. The knight felt a small shift in Qui-Gon's focus and leaned back slightly, looking up into the master's face.

Qui-Gon ran his fingers down the long braid slowly. "Have you decided what you're going to do?"

Despite the ways he could've taken that, Obi-Wan knew what Qui-Gon meant. He stilled his massaging hand. "No. I had always thought Master would be here to cut it." He paused, thoughtful. "There was a time when I had hoped my master would be you; that my braid would be yours. You could cut it now."

"No. It isn't my place to. It should have been, though. I saw so much potential in you, but I was afraid I would destroy any padawan I took."

"So you shut yourself off. You don't have to any more. Open up to me," Obi-Wan whispered before claiming Qui-Gon's mouth in a scorching kiss.

Qui-Gon felt Obi-Wan's shields start to drop. He followed suit, pulling the young man tight against him, his hand slipping under the blue and green tartan to grasp the round, firm, bare buttocks. Obi-Wan groaned deep in his chest.

The two men broke for air. Qui-Gon's eyes were dark and dilated with desire when he spoke quietly, "I want you."

"Yes. Please."

"Inside me."

Obi-Wan shivered. That wasn't what he expected -- the master seemed a ‘take charge' sort -- but it certainly wasn't undesired either. He backed up towards the bedroom, clothes dropping as he went.

Qui-Gon stalked after him, his own clothes making a trail behind him. They fell together onto the bed, hands stroking, lips kissing, teeth nipping, and tongues licking. Before long Obi-Wan pulled a bottle of oil to him and coated his fingers. Lying on his back, Qui-Gon pulled his knees to his chest.

The bond argued for immediacy, but something held Obi-Wan back in his preparations. Didn't Qui-Gon say it had been awhile? He took his time stretching and loosening Qui-Gon, teasing with a stroke of his finger over the man's prostate. Qui-Gon was pleading and writhing by the time Obi-Wan slicked his straining cock and positioned himself at Qui-Gon's opening.

Slowly Obi-Wan pushed forward, breaching the body beneath him. Qui-Gon moaned, hands tightly gripping the sheets. Obi-Wan sensed a bit of tension so he rocked languidly, easing himself in deeper with each stroke. Qui-Gon was soon moving with him, his previously flagging erection once again hard and rampant.

The last of their shields completely dropped as Obi-Wan became fully sheathed in Qui-Gon's tight heat. It was then that he realized the fullness of the gift given to him by the older man. Still buried deep inside, he paused in his motion. "Oh, Qui-Gon. Why?" Obi-Wan asked quietly.

Qui-Gon felt full and stretched, but it was oh so good. It had burned a little at first, but Obi-Wan's tender care had kept pain to a minimum. He licked his lips, dry from his panting breath and answered softly, "I never felt fully comfortable or trusted them enough to let them in. Both figuratively and literally."

"My love," Obi-Wan groaned as he shifted Qui-Gon's legs to his shoulders and began rocking again.

The Force gathered around them as they moved together in this ancient dance. It pulled them together into one mind and one heart. Everything crystallized and their senses sharpened. Obi-Wan felt his scrotum tightening as he drove into Qui-Gon, his pace increasing. His braid brushed his bondmate's chest with each hard lunge. The knight reached and took the master's thick cock in his hand, stroking down it's length in counterpoint to his thrusts.

Qui-Gon cried out, his movements becoming frantic as the feelings became overwhelming. His prostate was being hit with every thrust, sending shocks of pleasure throughout his body and his staff was in Obi-Wan's tight grip, the still oiled fist causing pleasant friction.

They held on to the precipice for what seemed like both forever and only mere seconds, then together they let go. It felt as if their very souls shattered as they came; the shards flung out far and wide before recoalescing, leaving them gasping for breath.

Obi-Wan collapsed into Qui-Gon's arms. Both men let out a soft moan of loss when the young man's now flaccid cock slipped out as the master lowered his legs. Obi-Wan slid to Qui-Gon's side, snuggling against him. The older man called a hand towel to him and cleaned away some of the sticky mess from his belly and Obi-Wan's hand.

They were quiet as they recovered. Eyes closed, they listened to the sounds of their reception music floating through the air; Qui-Gon's fingertips brushing idly over the scar on Obi-Wan's back. Through the connection that remained strong between them, the master could feel that the healing skin was more sensitive, though not in a painful way.

With a purr of contentment, Obi-Wan slid his right leg up over Qui-Gon's thighs. With a mind of it's own, Qui-Gon's fingers moved down to graze lightly over the scar there. Absently he noted it felt softer, less rough than a couple of days ago.

"The bond feels deeper than before."

"Mmmhmm," Qui-Gon agreed. "We fully opened to it this time."

Obi-Wan chuckled, "oh, yeah. I'd say so." He opened his eyes to look up at his bondmate. "Um, Qui-Gon? You're glowing."

Qui-Gon smiled, about to answer with a wisecracking innuendo when he cracked his eyes and saw what Obi-Wan was referring to. There was a faint golden glow around both of them. "So are you."

"Does this mean--"

Qui-Gon nodded. "It must be a soul-bond instead of a life-bond. The glow will fade in a bit."

"A soul-bond." Obi-Wan tweaked Qui-Gon's nipple causing him to hiss. "I seem to remember from classes that the partners of a soul-bond somewhat even out physically if there's an age difference. That means you could end up looking younger."

"I think you're already going through physical changes; your scars feel different."

Obi-Wan ran his hand down his own leg. The scar felt smoother and less defined. "An added bonus."

Qui-Gon turned Obi-Wan's head to face him. "It also means if one of us dies, so does the other."

"I know," the knight answered softly. "I wouldn't want to live without you. Not ever again."

Qui-Gon pulled Obi-Wan on top of him. "Together forever, my love." He plundered the sweet mouth above him. Tongues battled as their renewed erections rubbed together.

EPILOGUE:

Personal Journal Entry: Obi-Wan Kenobi killed my father. I didn't think I would lose him like that, or this soon. But I will always have his teachings. I will not let him down. I will complete the mission he gave me. I will destroy the Jedi from the inside. And I will kill the man who took away my father.

There was a rap on the door. "Time to go it is, Padawan."

"Yes, Master." Anakin saved the file and slipped the datapad into his tunic pocket before grabbing his pack and heading off to follow Yoda.

<The End>