Forging Bonds

by kimberlite (kimberlite@cox.net)

Archive: Please ask.

Pairing: Qui-Gon/Obi-Wan

Categories: Chan, Alternate-Universe, First-Time

Rating: NC-17

Warning: Underage (Obi is ~17).

Summary: Obi-Wan helps complete a master/padawan bond.

Thank you: To Alex for encouraging beta.

Notes: I originally wrote this as an unseen 'If' in Terri Hamill's "Riding the Wheel of If" universe. Unfortunately, 'If' canon has Obi-Wan always the same age, so please consider this an AU of that universe and not an official part of the series. Many thanks to Terri for the inspiration and for letting me play in her wonderful universe.

Disclaimer: These gorgeous Jedi belong to George Lucas, not me.

Feedback: Yes, please, to kimberlite@cox.net

Obi-Wan heard the familiar pop of compressed air as he materialized in the gardens. Seeing lush vegetation, he reached out with the Force, sensing his surroundings more fully.

A smile rose unbidden to his lips as he encountered the Force-signatures of millions of living beings. There was a richness to the swirling energy that flowed through him, a shining intensity that called to him at a basic level.

Feeling at ease, Obi-Wan rose, leaving the gardens to look for Yoda.

After Obi-Wan told the core of his story, Yoda called for Qui-Gon and then allowed Obi-Wan to share his experiences with them both. As in every reality, when Obi-Wan first saw his master, his heartbeat sped up and he wondered if finally, this time he would find a home.

"And that, as unbelievable as it sounds, is my story." Obi-Wan paused, glancing back and forth from Yoda to Qui-Gon. Yoda was as inscrutable as ever, but Obi-Wan thought he read relief and hope in Qui-Gon's eyes.

Now that his tale was told, Obi-Wan wanted to hear the details of this reality. "This reality feels so peaceful, but the Force uses me to solve problems. Do you know of any way that I might help you?"

Yoda nodded at Qui-Gon, saying, "Tell him, you will."

Fascinated, Qui-Gon looked into Obi-Wan's eyes, drawn into the love he saw radiating from their blue-green depths. "Obi-Wan exists in this reality as my apprentice, but he is younger than you are." Qui-Gon saw the brief flash of pain that his words produced. Gently he continued, "There are obvious differences in our universes. Here, one of our greatest sources of strength in the Force is the bond between master and padawan. That bond is the most precious, most revered connection between individuals and the Force."

Trying to hide his disappointment, Obi-Wan considered Qui-Gon's words. "The training bond between a master and padawan is a source of strength and reassurance in my reality also."

Qui-Gon reached out, touching Obi-Wan's hand. "In this reality, you would never have progressed to your knighthood and still been unable to tell your master you loved him."

"I don't understand." Unconsciously, Obi-Wan opened his hand, allowing Qui-Gon's fingers to run over his palm.

"Love is our greatest strength. It is a master's duty and privilege to nurture a child in the ways of the Force. The most effective and, for us, most natural way to do this is to form a deep bond between the apprentice and the master. As the child grows, so does the level of that connection. Once the student is physically and emotionally mature, a full bond is formed when the master and padawan express their love and trust in each other in a sexual relationship."

Obi-Wan closed his eyes briefly, feeling the pain of never being loved by his master in this manner. The warm slide of Qui-Gon's hand over his skin helped to center him in the present.

Feeling Obi-Wan's distress, but unsure of the cause, Qui-Gon tried to explain further. "A complete bond will not form any other way. Without this soul-deep connection, a master is unable to successfully complete a padawan's training."

"What happens to the pair after the padawan is knighted?"

"That depends on the individuals. Some separate, but many stay together. Bonded Jedi make incredible teams and are highly sought after throughout the galaxy."

Obi-Wan absorbed this new information. "Does this bond form for every pair?" The tightening of Qui-Gon's hand alerted Obi-Wan that this was closer to the source of the problem.

Slowly, Qui-Gon said, "No. Occasionally if a pair is not well enough suited they will fail to form the intermediate bond. But once there is that much connection, the deep bond has always formed at the proper time."

Trying to look supportive, Obi-Wan asked, "Is there a problem with your bond with Obi-Wan?"

Qui-Gon nodded once, then took hold of Obi-Wan's other hand. "There has always been an unusually strong connection between us. Obi-Wan is a joy to teach, so inquisitive, so naturally talented and intelligent, so secure in our relationship. We never imagined there would be a problem."

Seeing that Qui-Gon was becoming upset, Obi-Wan tried to project calm reassurance. "What is the problem?"

"Time is running out. Obi-Wan is approaching his seventeenth birthday. If we are unable to bond completely by that time, we will be separated and he will never become a Jedi Knight." Qui-Gon's voice was anguished.

"I thought you said the bond formed when the apprentice was ready." Obi-Wan ached to see Qui-Gon's pain. And, he admitted to himself, he felt a special hurt that an age limit might destroy their dreams.

"Obi-Wan was always very mature for his age. He was ready for the bond almost two years ago. But for some reason he was unable to consummate our bond. The healers were at a loss. He was emotionally and physically ready, we both wanted the bond, yet something was blocking it."

"Have you figured out what?"

"Yes and no. After much meditation, we discovered that Obi-Wan was shielding something deep in his mind. He wasn't even aware of it, but the wall was so thick that the healers couldn't help. We thought that I could work with him and eventually wear through, but we have been unsuccessful."

"I seem to be uniquely connected to my counterparts. Maybe I could help him break down the wall."

With new hope, Qui-Gon smiled at Obi-Wan. "We would appreciate your assistance."

Leaving Master Yoda, Obi-Wan followed Qui-Gon through the Temple to a training room where several padawans were engaged in sparring matches. Standing to the side, Obi-Wan's attention was immediately drawn to a slender young man moving with grace and assurance against his opponent.

Qui-Gon smiled as he saw Obi-Wan fixate on his counterpart. "He has such potential to be a great Jedi Knight. Besides my personal feelings, losing him would be a crime against the Force."

Obi-Wan continued to watch the fluid motions of the match. "I'll do everything I can to help you two have a future together."

Hearing the undercurrents of pain, Qui-Gon took Obi-Wan's hand between his large ones. "Thank you, Obi-Wan. Don't lose hope. You will find your place and your Qui-Gon."

Smiling gently, Obi-Wan nodded.

They watched in silence until the match ended. When Obi-Wan saw Qui-Gon, his face brightened and he came straight to his master. It took a moment for him to notice the man standing next to Qui-Gon, but when he did, Obi-Wan stared wide-eyed at the man and then turned to his master. "Please forgive my rudeness, but who is this?"

Qui-Gon gently stroked his apprentice's cheek. "Go clean up and we'll talk in our rooms. He may be just what we've been looking for." Obi-Wan accepted this statement with a nod and a shy glance at the other man before turning to follow his master's request.

Sitting in their rooms, Qui-Gon gave his apprentice a compressed version of Obi-Wan's story. As incredible as it seemed, the young man could sense the truth, and readily accepted the story and his connection to his older self.

Qui-Gon was pleased to see their mutual fascination, hoping that the older Obi-Wan could use their connection and his experience to help. Smiling, Qui-Gon said, "It's going to be confusing to call you both Obi-Wan, so why don't I call you Obi." Qui-Gon tapped his finger lightly on the tip of his padawan's nose.

Obi-Wan watched Obi's face at the touch, so open, so clearly in love. Knowing that their bond was threatened broke his heart, and he resolved to do whatever he could to help them complete it. "We should mediate and begin to establish a rapport."

The three spent several hours in shared meditation, learning of each other. Facilitated by the strong resonance between them, Obi-Wan and Obi quickly learned to trust each other. As they emerged from the trance, Qui-Gon was pleased with their initial progress. He hoped that together they would be able to resolve their problem.

The wall was thick and high, made of sturdy blocks of gray limestone, rough to the touch. Obi-Wan stood next to Qui-Gon intently looking for weakness. Although over the years vegetation had wedged its roots into small cracks, the structure was strong and seemingly impenetrable.

Obi-Wan took a deep breath. As he had expected after talking with Qui-Gon, there was no way to simply overpower the obstacle. Obi was going to have to loosen the blocks so they could help him tear it down.

Looking at Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan nodded for him to begin. Gently Qui-Gon reached out to Obi, encouraging contact. Obi appeared before the wall and walked to Qui-Gon. When Obi's consciousness touched Qui-Gon's a bright light illuminated their surroundings, radiating peace and love.

Obi-Wan caught his breath at the sight, overwhelmed by the sense of true communion they projected. Shivering slightly, Obi-Wan recognized that there had to be something truly Dark behind the wall to stand against such perfect trust. He had a bad feeling about this.

Qui-Gon and Obi worked together, trying again and again to breach the wall. With each failure, Obi-Wan sensed their fatigue and desperation rising. Moving to them, Obi-Wan thought /Let me help./

Adding his own mental power, Obi-Wan concentrated on moving a small block. For a brief moment, Obi-Wan heard the scraping of stone on stone and felt a burst of fear and pain escape from behind the wall. Staggered by its force, Obi-Wan stepped back from the wall.

Suddenly exhausted, Obi-Wan returned to himself, finding Qui-Gon and Obi sitting on the floor beside him. The three of them were still connected by their hands.

Qui-Gon looked cautiously optimistic. "You made contact. Not for long, but it's more than we've managed."

Obi's face was drawn and pale. "There was so much fear."

Qui-Gon helped Obi rise, then gathered his shaking padawan in a protective embrace, hand soothing up and down his back. "We knew it would be Dark, but together our Light will conquer it, love."

Obi-Wan remained on the floor, trying to form a more solid image from the fear and pain he had felt from Obi. "I need to meditate further."

When Obi-Wan finally stood, it was with a heavy heart. He had found the focus amidst the Darkness of Obi's fear. But he wasn't sure what to do now. Sighing, Obi-Wan went to the communications console and called Yoda.

Entering Yoda's rooms, Obi-Wan greeted the ancient master quietly and settled on the couch.

"Disturbed, you are, hmm." Yoda's ears quivered as he took in Obi-Wan's expression.

"We made contact with Obi's fear, very briefly, but enough for me to discover the root cause. He fears Qui-Gon."

Yoda's eyes widened, then closed briefly as he touched the Force. "Clouded the boy's path is."

Frustrated as he was by the lack of answers, Obi-Wan resisted the urge to get up and pace. "I can't believe Qui-Gon is the problem. It is so obvious that they love each other. Their Light shines so brightly. I won't accept it."

Yoda considered the agitated man before him. "Talk to the boy, you should. Without Qui-Gon, hmm."

"Yes, Master."

The next morning Qui-Gon acquiesced to Obi-Wan's request to speak with Obi alone, vacating their rooms after hugging Obi and telling him to trust Obi-Wan. Obi stood, uncertain but curious, before his older self.

"Come sit down, Obi. I thought it might help if we talked a bit, one on one." Obi-Wan moved over to the couch and Obi followed him. "I can sense how close you are to Qui-Gon, how much you love him."

Obi nodded quickly, smiling radiantly at Obi-Wan. "Of course I love him. He's my master, he's Qui-Gon," Obi said as if his words obviously explained everything.

Obi-Wan smiled, perhaps they did. "I understand, Obi." Pausing for a moment, Obi-Wan looked at the innocent youth, saddened that he had to question the actions of the master he too loved with all his heart. "Obi, how do you feel about not being able to complete the bond?"

Obi's face flushed and he dropped his head quickly. Quietly he said, "I've felt many emotions since our Bonding Night -- shock, anger, fear, sadness, frustration, embarrassment. I haven't reached acceptance, yet. I know how much I want to be a Jedi Knight. I know Qui-Gon and I were meant to be together." Obi looked up, meeting the compassionate gaze of his older self.

Obi-Wan admired Obi's courage. "I know you are, too. Why do you feel embarrassed?"

Shrugging, Obi said, "Some of the other padawans tease me because I'm so old and still a virgin."

"I'm sure their words hurt, but it's not your fault, Obi." Obi-Wan projected a blanket of reassurance.

"That's not true. There's something wrong in me that's making me fail my master." Obi's voice had dropped to a whisper.

Hearing the pain, Obi-Wan reached out to Obi, encouraging the boy into his embrace. "Oh, Obi. It's not your fault, love. You've been so strong. We'll figure out the problem and everything will be all right." Obi-Wan smoothed his hand over Obi's hair, lingering on the length of his padawan braid.

Obi accepted the touch and offered comfort for a time, finally pulling back with renewed composure.

Obi-Wan took a deep breath before saying, "I'm sorry to have to ask you this, Obi, but I need more information about what went wrong on your Bonding Night."

Obi stiffened visibly, his jaw tightening and his lips thinning. "I'm not sure what you want to know. It was supposed to be the most beautiful night of my life, but it didn't turn out that way." Obi was unable to keep a touch of bitterness from his voice.

"How far did you get before you knew something was wrong?"

Obi looked shocked and hurt by the question.

"I'm sorry, Obi. I'm not trying to pry or embarrass you, I'm trying to help."

"I know. It's just so hard to talk about this."

"Okay, let's step back a bit. I don't know what's normal in your reality. Could you tell me what your relationship was like before the Bonding Night?"

Obi perked up a bit. "Qui-Gon's been my friend since I was a child. He listened to me and helped me learn to touch the Living Force. When I turned thirteen and was eligible for selection, he took me as his padawan. I was so happy that he wanted me. He promised to teach me, to love me." After a brief pause, Obi said, "And I promised to learn from him, to love him."

Obi-Wan was touched by the faith Obi had given Qui-Gon. He was unable to reconcile the Qui-Gon Obi loved with the fear of Qui-Gon he had felt from behind the wall. He knew implicitly that Qui-Gon could never have done anything to scar Obi. Something else must have happened. "Obi, will you share meditation with me? Let me help you see your fear?"

"Yes, Obi-Wan. Qui-Gon has kept his promise to me. I want to be able to keep mine to him."

The wall was thick and high, made of sturdy blocks of gray limestone, rough to the touch. Obi-Wan approached the familiar barrier, Obi at his side. /Try to relax Obi. It's only me, and I'm you. There's nobody else here. Let me help./

Concentrating on the soothing voice beside him, Obi allowed Obi-Wan to walk him along the wall. Obi-Wan was no threat. Obi was Obi-Wan. He could trust him.

Obi-Wan stopped and traced his hand down a fracture in the stone. /Focus Obi, help me open the crack. Good. I'm here. We can face the fear together./

As they widened the small crack, Darkness poured out, washing aside the blocks in a catastrophic outpouring of fear. Obi fell backwards and Obi-Wan reached out frantically to support him.

The texture of the Darkness was smooth, its touch cold as it washed over them. Obi-Wan clutched Obi to him, allowing the currents to flow around them but not to drag them down.

The overwhelming fear resolved itself in images of pain. Obi-Wan felt Obi's fear. The source was Qui-Gon, his size and strength magnified by the mind of a thirteen-year-old. Pain. Qui-Gon grasping Obi's hips in his huge hands, bruising. Pain. Qui-Gon's enormous cock thrusting inside Obi, tearing. Pain. Qui-Gon's face suffused with the pleasure of claiming, lusting. Pain.

Obi-Wan surfaced from Obi's mind, reaching for the trembling youth before him. Obi crawled into Obi-Wan's arms, burying his head in Obi-Wan's shoulder and crying out his pain. Obi-Wan sat with tears streaming down his face, stroking and soothing the distraught young man.

Qui-Gon raced down the corridors of the Temple, oblivious to everything but the need to reach his padawan. He had been meditating in the Crystal Garden while Obi-Wan talked with Obi. Focused on a perfectly formed mineral crystal, Qui-Gon's serenity had been shattered when Obi's pain ripped through his mind. Instinctively reaching out through their bond, Qui-Gon had been stunned to find himself shut off from his padawan.

Finally reaching their rooms, Qui-Gon found Obi on the floor, cradled in the strong arms of Obi-Wan. Blinking up through his tears, Obi-Wan met Qui-Gon's frantic gaze. Desperate to reach Qui-Gon before he touched Obi, Obi-Wan said, "Wait. He fears your touch. I'm blocking your bond. I'll explain more once he calms." Obi-Wan cringed at the look of horror and disbelief on Qui-Gon's face.

Deflated, Qui-Gon slumped to the floor, careful not to make contact with the other half of his soul.

Carefully Obi-Wan focused on Obi. "Obi-love, I need you to listen to me. I know it hurts, but please believe me, Qui-Gon never hurt you like that. He loves you."

Obi slowly stopped crying but refused to move from Obi-Wan's arms. "It feels so real."

"I know, Obi. The person who put those images in your mind wanted you to believe them." Qui-Gon was following the conversation carefully, piecing together a picture that made him furious. Obi-Wan gave him a stern look that told him to control his anger for Obi's sake.

"But why would anyone want to hurt me?" Obi clearly couldn't conceive of such evil.

"Search your feelings, you can feel his mark, feel his motive." Obi-Wan tried to guide Obi through the tangle of pain and fear.

Startled, Obi whispered, "Bruck..."

"Yes."

"He wanted Qui-Gon as his master. After I was selected, he left the Temple...there were rumors that he turned to the Dark."

"Yes, but before he left, he wanted to sabotage your bond. Drawing on the Dark for power, he implanted a Force-suggestion to make you think that Qui-Gon would hurt you on your Bonding Night. He knew you wouldn't believe Qui-Gon capable of such monstrosity, but you would feel the reality of it."

"Since I couldn't reconcile the images, I walled them away. But it kept me from bonding just the same." Obi pulled back to stare at Obi-Wan.

"He knew just how to hurt you the most," Obi-Wan agreed.

Brokenly, Obi said, "If you hadn't been here to help, he would have succeeded. We would never have broken down the wall since my fear was of Qui-Gon."

"But I was here, and now that we know your fear we can fight it." Obi-Wan feared that the real struggle was about to begin.

After the quelling look from Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon had centered himself and remained quiet as Obi unraveled the past. Controlling his anger at Bruck's actions was difficult, but necessary. His main concern now was to reaffirm his relationship with Obi.

Obi-Wan slowly dropped the protective mental shield he'd blanketed Obi in and drew his attention to Qui-Gon. "Master!" Obi flinched slightly before becoming still.

"Padawan." Qui-Gon carefully reached out along the bond, meeting Obi and caressing him with light mind touches.

Enveloped once again in Qui-Gon's love and strength, Obi's tension eased. "I love you, Master." Taking Qui-Gon's hand, Obi raised it to his lips.

"As I love you, Padawan." Qui-Gon rejoiced in the love flowing deeply between them. He trusted that their Light would eventually eradicate the shadows of Darkness that lingered.

Obi-Wan watched with wonder and longing as master and padawan reunited.

Obi had wanted to bond fully immediately, but Qui-Gon had insisted that they needed to spend some time in meditation to reflect on these events. Obi had been so excited that they had broken through the wall that he had ignored the uncovered hurt and betrayal. As much as he wished it were otherwise, Qui-Gon agreed with Obi-Wan that it was simply a matter of time before those feelings would hit Obi. They would have to deal with them successfully or the bond could not be completed.

That afternoon the three sat near the bank of a small stream. The soothing sound of water running over rock cascaded through the lush garden surrounding them with calming warmth. Their meditation was filled with Light and love, burning through the shadows of fear and pain that still slunk around the depths of Obi's mind. When they encountered a Dark region, Obi-Wan went in first, reassuring Obi that no one would hurt him, least of all his master. Then Qui-Gon followed, gently supportive, allowing Obi to reach for him and accept his strength, his love. Over and over they tracked down Darkness and vanquished it.

Obi-Wan returned to awareness to find Obi launching himself at Qui-Gon, pushing him onto his back and following to land on top of him. Obi kissed Qui-Gon's face playfully several times before turning serious and attacking his mouth. The passion radiating from Obi's kiss was forceful enough that Obi-Wan's body responded without thought. He had to tell himself that Obi's intense arousal was partly the result of the intimacy of their meditation. Unfortunately, that knowledge did nothing to alleviate his desire.

Qui-Gon, being the recipient of Obi's attentions, had an even more difficult time maintaining control. However, he was a Jedi Master and had learned a few tricks over the years. Carefully he helped Obi channel the excess energy into the Force, easing the pressure in Obi's body and allowing the youth to relax against him.

Still panting softly, Obi looked at Qui-Gon in surprise. "Why did you stop us? We could have completed the bond."

"Obi, you know there are rituals that accompany the Bonding. It may not seem important to you now, but I want to give us the memory of a sacred night, not a quick fumbling in the grass." Qui-Gon pulled Obi's head down so he could place a gentle kiss on Obi's lips.

Grinning with understanding, Obi replied, "Even if it would have been a completely wonderful and satisfying fumbling in the grass."

In the soft glow of candlelight Obi-Wan knelt with Qui-Gon and Obi, who faced each other connected by their hands. Obi-Wan had been humbled and honored to be asked to serve as Attendant for their Bonding. Beyond helping them get ready for the ceremony, Obi-Wan's main duties were to witness the commitment vows and to act as guardian for the night. Historically the Attendant had guarded the bonding pair from predators and enemies. However, the duty of the Attendant had evolved over time to include monitoring the well-being of the padawan and master during the Bonding.

Master Yoda had explained the ceremony and his duties to him. Although Yoda had reassured Obi-Wan that nothing should go wrong, Obi-Wan was glad he had been chosen to stay close to Qui-Gon and Obi this night. He just hoped they wouldn't need him.

The ritual words flowed between them, love and trust offered and accepted in the poetry of ancient verse. Obi-Wan remained on the floor as Qui-Gon stood and reached down to grasp his padawan's hand. Obi-Wan's voice expressed his joy and hope for the pair as he acknowledged their vows. "May the strength of love bond you together as two become one, united in the Force."

The active portion of his duties completed, Obi-Wan lowered his eyes and sank into a light meditative trance. He needed to be sensitive to the pair but not intrusive.

Qui-Gon helped Obi stand, drawing him into the circle of his arms and kissing his forehead. Loosening the tie of Obi's simple robe, Qui-Gon let the fabric slide down his padawan's body, baring the smooth, golden skin to his avid gaze.

Obi stood naked before his master, unashamed of his young body. Through their bond, Obi could feel the hunger of Qui-Gon's thoughts. It excited him to know that his master desired him.

Letting his robe fall to the floor, Qui-Gon exposed his body to his love. Obi allowed his eyes to roam over the man before him. He found Qui-Gon incredibly beautiful in both mind and body.

Qui-Gon leaned down, taking Obi's lips in a soft, exploratory kiss. They had waited two years to consummate their bond, and finally they were here, touching gently, slowly building their arousal. Obi deepened the kiss, opening his mouth and probing with his tongue, desperate to taste his master.

Qui-Gon ran his hands along the sleek flanks of his padawan. Obi was still filling out, but Jedi training had defined his muscles beautifully. Qui-Gon pulled their bodies together wanting to feel Obi's flesh against his own. Obi gasped as they came into contact, unconsciously thrusting his hips, rubbing himself into the solid mass of Qui-Gon's thigh.

Knowing that Obi was feeling pleasure from the physical contact, Qui-Gon reached out along the bond, adding mental caresses. Obi met him touch for touch, escalating their need for more intimate contact. Following Obi's desire, Qui-Gon led him to the bed, stretching him out on his back against the pristine sheets. After a moment to appreciate the slim body, Qui-Gon moved over Obi, settling his weight between Obi's spread thighs.

Obi-Wan felt the mental cry even before he heard Obi's voice rising in denial. Quickly jumping up, Obi-Wan rushed to the bed to find Obi thrashing and fighting to get away from Qui-Gon's large body. Qui-Gon quickly moved off Obi, anguish clear on his face. Sensing Obi-Wan, Obi crawled over to him, silently asking for protection.

Looking over the trembling youth in his arms, Obi-Wan met Qui-Gon's eyes, murmuring, "It's okay, Obi. You're safe now, love. Calm down. Everything's all right. Take a deep breath."

Slowly following Obi-Wan's directions, Obi calmed enough to realize what had happened, and whispered brokenly, "No, not again. It's not fair. No."

Obi-Wan stroked Obi gently. "Don't give up, Obi. You know Qui-Gon loves you and isn't going to hurt you. You know Bruck is responsible for your fear. We won't let him win. Fight for your love."

Obi looked at Obi-Wan, seeing blue-green eyes that matched his own. "Help me."

Smiling slightly, Obi-Wan said, "Yes, of course I'll help you. Trust me, Obi. We will complete the bond." Obi-Wan reached out to Qui-Gon, silently asking for his trust and support.

Obi tried to fight his terror as Obi-Wan pulled Qui-Gon near him. Meeting those crystal blue eyes, seeing the pain beneath the surface, seeing the love reaching out to him, Obi's fear lessened. "Oh, Qui-Gon, love. I'm so sorry. I know you're not going to hurt me but I can't get past the fear." Overwhelmed by despair, Obi took a sobbing breath, lower lip quivering.

Touching Obi's face in a gesture of comfort, Obi-Wan reached with his free hand for Qui-Gon's hand, stroking the callused palm with his fingers. Slowly he caressed Obi's skin, changing his touch, making the strokes sensual. After a moment's hesitation, Obi arched into the touch, responding to the desire he sensed.

"That's it, love. It's just me. Feel the pleasure of my touch." Obi-Wan continued petting Obi. Twining his fingers with Qui-Gon's, Obi-Wan brought their hands over to touch Obi's arm. While he shivered at the contact, Obi didn't draw away. Slowly they expanded their touching, allowing Obi to accept their attentions. Soon Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon's hands separated to flow over the smooth skin independently.

Seeing that Obi could accept his touch while Obi-Wan acted as a buffer, Qui-Gon moved closer and kissed Obi's shoulder. Obi-Wan followed Qui-Gon's lead, kissing Obi's hand and continuing up his arm. Obi was obviously aroused by their combined attention, making little noises in the back of his throat and mentally broadcasting his renewed excitement.

Knowing that the ritual required the padawan to submit to the master, Obi-Wan carefully moved his hands lower, brushing Obi's bottom. He spent several minutes simply stroking lightly over the smooth, rounded globes before tracing a finger along the crevice. Obi jerked as Obi-Wan's finger gently rubbed his opening, but it was clearly a reaction to the pleasure of the touch.

Encouraged, Obi-Wan guided Qui-Gon's hand to replace his own. Looking over to the bedside table, Obi-Wan found a bowl containing lubricant. Scooping up some of it with two of his fingers, Obi-Wan returned to Qui-Gon, transferring the slick gel onto Qui-Gon's fingers.

Rubbing the remaining gel onto his palm, Obi-Wan gently took Obi's erection in his hand and began stroking it. Concentrating on the wonderful sensations of Obi-Wan's touch, Obi forgot about Qui-Gon's fingers. However, when Qui-Gon gently pushed one finger into Obi, he cried out in panic. Qui-Gon carefully removed his hand, trying to project calming thoughts to his distraught padawan.

All three of them were visibly shaken by Obi's reaction. Although Obi had been aroused by their touches, it seemed that more intimate contact triggered the imprinted fear reaction. Obi looked at Qui-Gon. "I'm so sorry, Master. I know now that you didn't hurt me, but when you touched me like that, in my mind you were tearing me apart." Obi's eyes expressed his shame in failing his master.

Qui-Gon didn't need a bond to read Obi's posture. "Obi, you have not failed me. You are not at fault. We will overcome the fear." Looking over to Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon continued, "Maybe telling you that there will be no pain is not enough. Maybe we need to show you that it is so."

Immediately picking up on Qui-Gon's idea, Obi-Wan smiled slightly and nodded his acceptance to Qui-Gon. Lightly touching Obi's arm, Obi-Wan said, "Obi, you know I would protect you from harm." Obi nodded, trusting Obi-Wan implicitly. "We are the same person, Obi. What hurts me hurts you. What doesn't hurt me won't hurt you."

Qui-Gon reached over to touch Obi-Wan's face, tracing his fingers through the longer hair. "Obi, I want you to watch as I touch Obi-Wan. Feel his pleasure, know that I would never hurt him, or you."

Obi's breath hitched as he realized Qui-Gon's intention. For a moment, jealousy flickered through the bond, but Obi controlled it, trusting his master and his other self. Quietly he asked, "May I touch Obi-Wan also?"

Obi-Wan smiled, loosened his robe, and replied, "Of course you may."

Freed from being the focus of the physical contact, Obi relaxed and allowed his basic sensual nature free rein. He watched as Qui-Gon moved to kneel behind Obi-Wan, tracing a finger down Obi-Wan's spine. Shivering at the image of his master's large hand moving so delicately over Obi-Wan's body, Obi sought out Obi-Wan's lips. The kiss was sweet, tinged with the excitement of tasting himself. Obi deepened it, running his hands over Obi-Wan's body.

Qui-Gon allowed Obi to explore Obi-Wan, learning their similarities and differences. The sight of his padawan entwined with himself sent an unexpected jolt of pleasure through Qui-Gon's body. The combination of innocence and experience was so beautiful that Qui-Gon couldn't resist reaching out to them.

Drawing aside Obi-Wan's hair, Qui-Gon nibbled on the back of his neck. Obi-Wan groaned into Obi's mouth, caught between the master he loved and the youth who was himself. Obi reached out to tangle his hand in Qui-Gon's flowing hair, wanting more contact.

The current of arousal built amidst the candlelight, sweeping them along in its wake. Qui-Gon finally positioned Obi-Wan on his hands and knees on the bed. Obi watched intently as Qui-Gon stroked Obi-Wan's back with one hand and brought his other hand, fingers slicked with gel, to Obi-Wan's entrance. Qui-Gon slowly slipped his finger into Obi-Wan who accepted it easily.

As Qui-Gon added a second finger, he turned to Obi, saying, "Can you feel Obi-Wan's pleasure?"

Obi nodded, breathless from the sensations. "Yes. It feels good, doesn't it Obi-Wan?"

Seeking to reassure, Obi-Wan gasped, "It's incredible."

Removing his fingers, Qui-Gon invited Obi closer. "Touch him yourself, feel his heat, his pleasure."

Suddenly unsure, Obi asked, "Obi-Wan, may I?"

"Of course." Obi-Wan grinned to himself, unbearable aroused by Obi's shy request. As Obi's fingers entered him, Obi-Wan projected his delight. "That's wonderful. Now separate your fingers and move them in and out."

Obi followed Obi-Wan's directions, experimenting. Stopping when Obi-Wan stiffened, Obi asked, "Are you okay? I didn't mean to hurt you."

"Don't stop, Obi. It feels so good to have you touch me. No pain."

Reassured, Obi rubbed the spot that had made Obi-Wan react before. He was rewarded by a groan and a wave of lust, confirming Obi-Wan's pleasure.

Seeing movement out of the corner of his eye, Obi's attention was drawn to Qui-Gon, who was spreading gel over his erection. Absently removing his fingers from Obi-Wan, Obi stared at Qui-Gon, torn between intense arousal and the beginnings of fear. Qui-Gon was so large that he would surely hurt Obi-Wan.

Sensing Obi's fear, Qui-Gon gentled his voice. "Obi, I won't hurt him. Watch and feel Obi-Wan, and you will know I speak the truth." Qui-Gon stroked Obi-Wan's hips lightly before positioning himself. Obi gasped as Qui-Gon began to penetrate Obi-Wan, watching as his huge hardness sank into Obi-Wan's softness.

Obi could sense the tendrils of love and intense pleasure radiating from both men as they connected fully. His excitement increased as he watched Qui-Gon pull out most of the way before thrusting back into Obi-Wan. His master had been correct. "I believe you, Master," he whispered.

Stilling inside Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon turned his face to Obi, meeting the passion-filled gaze of his padawan. Obi was breathing in shallow gasps, unused to this prolonged level of arousal. "Are you ready for me, Padawan?"

"Yes." Obi's voice was clear and sure.

Qui-Gon kissed Obi-Wan's shoulder, whispering instructions before withdrawing from him. Reaching for a cleansing cloth, Obi-Wan moved sinuously toward Qui-Gon, efficiently cleaning him. Then he settled on his back and reached out to Obi. "Come here, little one."

Instinctively drawn to the kindness and longing in Obi-Wan's eyes, Obi moved to straddle Obi-Wan's legs, resting his weight on top of Obi-Wan. Obi gasped as he made contact with Obi-Wan's erection. Obi-Wan wrapped his arms around Obi, stroking the smooth, warm skin of his back.

This time, sheltered in Obi-Wan's protective embrace, Obi relaxed and allowed Qui-Gon to slide a finger inside him. It didn't hurt, but it felt kind of strange. The addition of a second finger caused Obi to tighten instinctively. Gentle words of reassurance from both Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan soothed him, allowing the pleasure of this intimate touch to blossom inside him.

Qui-Gon continued to caress Obi, stretching him and stroking him. Obi couldn't believe how good it felt. Even seeing Obi-Wan react to his touch had not prepared him for the intensity of pleasure he felt at Qui-Gon's touch. Unable to control his reactions, Obi bucked his hips, sliding his arousal along Obi-Wan's. Overwhelmed by the dual sensations, Obi whimpered and pleaded for more.

Seeing that Obi was ready, Qui-Gon removed his fingers, replacing them with the solid, slick heat of his hardness. Obi was breathing in short panting gasps. Obi-Wan stroked his back, murmuring, "Take a few deep breaths, Obi and then relax. Let Qui-Gon love you."

Qui-Gon felt Obi's tension soften and pushed gently into the heat of his padawan. He moved slowly deeper, whispering words of love and passion, until he was completely sheathed in Obi. As Qui-Gon began to thrust, he heard Obi-Wan's voice flow over them, joining in the chorus of pleasure and love.

Surrounded by love, Obi reveled in the unbelievable sensations of Qui-Gon's hard body moving above him, pushing him against Obi-Wan's hardness below. He had never felt such intense pleasure, both physical and mental, before now. It was fantastic, overwhelming, humbling.

Sensing that Obi was awash in their passion and ready for deeper mental connection, Qui-Gon leaned over to rain kisses along Obi's shoulder blades, tasting the salt-sweat of his skin. Opening their training bond more fully, Qui-Gon reached for his beloved. Obi met him without hesitation, hungry for the deep bond after waiting for so long.

Weaving their Force-signatures into an intricate, entwined pattern, Qui-Gon allowed Obi to see the extent of his love, shining brightly from the depths of his soul. Illuminated by that love, Obi reached out to forge the last links of their bond.

"Master."

"Padawan."

And the bond was complete.

Force-energy swirled about the lovers, needing to be dissipated. Qui-Gon resumed thrusting into his beloved padawan, sharing and intensifying pleasure through their bond. It was more than enough. Orgasm crashed over them all, releasing the built up energy in an explosion of Light and color.

Totally exhausted, Qui-Gon still managed to roll to the side, bringing Obi with him. For long moments the room was filled with the harsh breathing of the recovering men. Obi opened his eyes to find Obi-Wan, face streaked with tears, trying to ease out of bed. Grabbing his arm, Obi refused to let him move. "Don't go, Obi-Wan. You belong here, too. We would never have bonded if not for you."

Obi-Wan stilled, amazed by the love and gratitude in Obi's eyes. For the moment, knowing that he ultimately didn't belong here was unimportant. Obi-Wan felt the gentle sweep of fingers tracing the paths of his tears and moved into the caress. Obi replaced his fingers with his lips, kissing and licking Obi-Wan's face, offering comfort.

Qui-Gon watched his padawan envelop Obi-Wan in a blanket of compassion and love, and felt his heart swell with pride as Obi's Light soothed Obi-Wan. Qui-Gon added his own touch and mental caress, thanking Obi-Wan for the great gift he had given them.

The candles burned down, but the room was luminous with joy and love.