Master Apprentice Archive Quick search:

As I stowed my bag in the cabinet behind my seat, the Sullustan pilot Coliad said pleasantly, "We are ready to depart as soon as you are secured, Knight Kenobi."

I settled into my seat, buckled the restraints then said, "Ready when you are."

With a nod, he turned his attention to the controls before him and began the process of engaging the repulsor lifts.

Closing my eyes, I smothered the unease I was feeling over leaving him and focused along the bond I share with Qui-Gon. Make sure you take care of yourself, my Master. I have plans for you immediately upon my return, I sent teasingly. I could feel the pull against our bond as the ship lifted from the tarmac and made its way through the hangar portal. The pilot wove effortlessly through the heavy traffic around the Temple and quickly made his way into the lower atmosphere.

I look forward to it, my own, he sent in reply, the words barely reaching me before the distance between us became too much for words to be conveyed. Grasping all the love that had accompanied the words, I held it tightly in my heart before returning a wave of love to him. I will miss you, I sent along with that love but I was relatively sure that he would be unable to make out the words.

I could see that the traffic around us had thinned noticeably and knew that we were getting close to clearing the upper atmosphere.

"We'll be making the jump to hyperspace in sixty seconds, Knight Kenobi," the pilot called without turning his attention from the controls.

"Thank you. How long is the journey?" I asked. I braced myself against the seat, trying to prepare for the drastic dampening of the Force that would accompany the jump.

"About five hours. With the time difference, we will be arriving on Ansion just about daybreak," he replied as he depressed the hyperspace lever.

Nothing could have prepared me for the searing pain that enveloped me as the ship made the transition. It took all my years of training to hold back the cry that welled within me. My head pounded, my nerves felt as if they were on fire and my stomach lurched precariously. My grip on the arm supports of the seat tightened as I fought my body's reaction to the ever-increasing pressure on my bond with Qui-Gon.

As the distance between us widened, my discomfort escalated. The small part of my brain that could still function wondered momentarily if my Master was having the same reaction to our separation and I pushed down an almost overwhelming compulsion to ask the pilot to turn back. But as I used every trick I knew to control my rebelling body and release my pain and discomfort to the Force, I disregarded that notion as foolishness. He was a Jedi Master after all and he would not allow such a weakness to overtake him.

"Are you all right, Knight Kenobi?" the pilot asked. I opened my eyes to see him looking at me with concern. "Flying not agreeing with you? You are looking rather peaked."

Embarrassment filled me at my lack of control. "I will be fine in a moment," I answered softly. Steeling my resolve, I ignored the pounding in my head and the pain throughout my body and sought to bring myself back into control. If I had any chance of fulfilling this mission successfully, I had to get past this irrational need to be near Qui-Gon.

After a few moments, I must have managed to at least look like I wasn't about to vomit on the deck because he turned back to his controls. It took me a bit longer to feel that way in reality but finally I was able to loosen my restraints and rise precariously to my feet. I crossed the three steps to the small cooling unit embedded in the wall, pulled out a bottle of water and took a few sips from it. Recapping it, I reached into the luggage cabinet to retrieve my datapad from my bag then settled back into my seat with both items.

It wasn't easy but I forced my still rebelling body into some semblance of calm and switched on the reader. Using duty as a distraction from my distress, I made myself reread the mission directive at the beginning of the file with an attention to detail that I did not give it the first time. Concentration was difficult but I compelled myself to focus, moving from the mission briefing to the background information on the two Ansion cultures. The transcripts of the treaty negotiations that Qui-Gon had overseen supported his claim that the Lorei and the Niatchie enjoyed debate just for the sake of debate. The two groups had spent a full day's session discussing the wording of the final paragraph of the document, arguing about the arrangement of the words that led to the signature page for hours before agreeing to the original wording. A similar incident or two had occurred in each of the treaty signings the Jedi has overseen and the only solace I could take was that the length of the debates had lessened with each subsequent signing.

By the time I had finished reviewing the information Mace had loaded into the datapad, almost three hours had passed. I was still just barely controlling the pounding in my head and the ache along my nerves and I knew that unless I could find a better way to deal with my weakness the mission would be in jeopardy. I drank a bit more water then rose shakily from my seat and tucked the datapad back into my bag. It took much more effort than it should have to make a trip to the refresher and I was struggling when I settled back into my seat.

A quick glance at the pilot told me he was concentrating on something on his display screen as the ship moved through hyperspace and I was relieved that he hadn't been pushing to make small talk to fill the hours. With a little more than two hours until we reverted to real space, I decided to take advantage of that fact. A couple of hours in a deep meditation trance should help me to regain my equilibrium and reenergize my struggling body. Knowing the transition would rouse me instantly, I closed my eyes and slowed my breathing. I sunk myself into the web of the Unifying Force until I was so internally focused that I was only remotely aware of the ship surrounding me.

I floated along on the eddies of the Force, clearing my mind of all concerns while I drew from it to soothe my aching body. Luckily my tolerance for pain was much stronger than most because my ability to heal myself had never been very good. But I continued to draw on the Force's strength and by the time I felt the whine of the ship dropping from hyperspace, I had managed to regain enough control to rise from my seat and cross the cockpit steadily. I stood behind the pilot as he requested clearance from the tower, relieved that even though I wasn't up to my normal standards I was functioning without any visible sign of weakness.

The ship was given diplomatic clearance and it didn't take long for us to make our way into the private hangar attached to the Niatchie Consulate. As the pilot slipped the craft into the main berth, he said. "I am continuing on to pick up another Jedi on Bimmiel. Another Temple ship has been assigned to pick you up after your mission. It's been a pleasure, Knight Kenobi."

"Thanks for the ride, Ser Coliad," I said, with a slight bow. "Have a safe journey." Reinforcing myself with the Force, I grabbed my bag, slung it over my shoulder and headed down the now open ramp into the hangar, hoping I was up to the task set before me.

Two large groups of delegates awaited me a few meters from the ship and I easily recognized the two cultures empowered on this planet. Each group consisted of a number of officials, dressed in ways that spoke clearly of not only their ethnicity but also of their position in the social and political structure of the planet. As I approached, the groups seemed to be posturing for position and I knew that if I did not handle my greeting properly I could set back the talks for days.

"Greetings, honored delegates. I am Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi and I am honored by your request to be a part of this Ansionian tradition," I stated in official diplomatic language as I bowed formally. I caught the amused glance between the two senior delegates before they stepped forward and was relieved that I had passed their first test.

"We are privileged to have you here as the Jedi representative for our treaty signing, Knight Kenobi," the Lorei and Niatchie delegates said in unison. The Lorei delegate pointed to his Niatchie counterpart and said, "This is Elspeth Pelagia, Senior Envoy of the Niatchie delegation and I am Farr Zuhayr, Senior Envoy of the Lorei delegation. Welcome to Volney, the capitol of the Lorei provinces."

"I look forward to learning more about both your cultures as I serve in this role as Jedi emissary," I replied. They both smiled warmly at the comment then proceeded to introduce me to the remaining members of both entourages. The introductions took only a few minutes and then the majority of the group headed back to the Consulate while a senior Lorei aide showed me to the quarters I would be occupying for the length of the mission.

When the door closed behind my guide after a reminder that he would be back to collect me for the first round of talks in an hour, I sagged into the nearest chair. The formal welcome and the short trip to these quarters had been draining with my constant need to draw on the power of the Force to keep my rebellious body functioning. The moment I had release that hold, my headache had returned full force along with the tingling over my nerves.

After sitting for a few moments, I finally had enough strength to remove the bag from my shoulder and drop it to the floor. When I looked around the luxurious suite, my first thought was how much Qui-Gon would have enjoyed these rooms and the pain of being separated from him welled within me again. The walls of the sitting room were decorated with detailed drawings on yellowed parchments, depicting what I could only guess to be various historic events of the Lorei. At the far end of the room was a set of etched glass doors leading out into a private garden. Rising, I walked slowly to the doors, looking out onto the meticulously sculpted expanse beyond. The area was filled with a multitude of various trees, shrubs and flowering plants and as I slid open the door, the chirping of avians and a wonderful bouquet wafted into the room.

I stayed in the doorway for a few moments, drinking in the flow of the Living Force moving so naturally through the garden until it had reenergized me enough to continue. I left the door open as I went back to pick up my bag then headed to the sleep chamber to freshen up. It took only a matter of minutes for me to unpack and I realized I had time for a quick shower. I heard the faint echo of someone coming into the rooms while under the spray but I sensed no malice so I ignored it.

The shower had made me feel a little better and I redressed quickly. I entered the sitting room to find a tray with tea, fruit and fresh bread and I cringed as my host's well intentioned gesture brought my nausea back with a vengeance. Trying not to look at the fruit and bread, I poured myself a cup of the dark tea, hoping it would help to settle my queasy stomach.

I sipped the tea as I toured the room, studying the parchments on the walls intently. My heart leapt as I reached the sixth illustration, a detailed image of an official treaty signing. Staring back from the image, as recognizable as if he was standing before me, was a much younger version of Qui-Gon Jinn. The hair was shorter, barely shoulder length, it and the beard drawn devoid of the silver streaks that now colored them but the expressive eyes, the slightly crocked nose and angular face were those that I had so reluctantly left a few hours ago. Resplendent in his formal Jedi blacks, he stood between the two senior envoys witnessing as they simultaneously placed their signatures on the official document. As I took in the sight, I wondered if a similar drawing graced the walls of the rooms he had occupied in the Niatchie capitol twenty-five years ago.

Glancing at the chrono, I realized I still had a few minutes before my guide returned so I decided to use the holonet and send a message to Qui-Gon. It was still only 0300 on Coruscant, so I activated the unit to record a message that would be delivered to him later. I steeled myself with a fresh infusion of Force energy to hide my precarious state, stood in front of the recording apparatus and began.

Good morning, Master, Anakin. I arrived on Ansion safely and I am recording this in the few minutes I have before the first negotiating session. You must have made your mark on these people during your visit, Qui-Gon, as a depiction of your signing graces the walls of my assigned quarters. Part of me wonders if these rooms are a duplicate of the quarters you were assigned during your stay but I will have to wait until we can compare notes to know that for sure. Well, I have to go. Make sure you take care of yourself Master and, Anakin, do not allow our Master to overdo. May my love and the Force be with you both.

I reached down and deactivated the recording device then leaned heavily on the table. My attempt at cheer and normalcy had drained me more than I would have liked and I only had a few minutes to regain my composure before the meeting. Taking a few more sips of my tea, I used the Force to imbue myself with the serenity that my Master had spent so many years drilling into me. Luckily I had managed to regain my calm and control by the time my guide knocked on the door.

I used the walk to the conference room to mentally review what I had learned since I arrived. The setting was opposite what it had been twenty-five years before and I knew that both cultures placed great value in keeping balance in all things. Holding the meetings at the Niatchie Consulate in the Lorei capitol gave the two cultures the sense of impartiality they sought, neither having an advantage of location. That combined with the delegates posturing at the hangar reinforced their need for equity and I knew that notwithstanding a major crisis, equity would be what cemented the treaty.

I was escorted into the room and settled into a seat between the two senior envoys. An array of datapads sat on the table in front of me, containing details of the treaty points that were scheduled to be under debate. There were a few unfamiliar faces in the group and Farr Zuhayr quickly introduced the new delegates. After the introductions were complete, the two lead envoys stood up and got the group right down to business.

"Our cultures have lived under the auspices of some version of the Scaloim Treaty for over two hundred years," Elspeth Pelagia said formally in her opening speech to the gathering. "May the gods of our peoples and the Force help us to come to an agreement during these talks that will allow us to continue to live together in peace and cooperation for the next twenty-five years."

"As my counterpart so eloquently said, this treaty is a mainstay of our lifestyles," Farr Zuhayr agreed. "Let us work in unison to see that both the Lorei and the Niatchie benefit from our agreement." And with their formal bow of respect to each other, the talks officially began.

Discussion on item one on the agenda started as soon as the two Senior Envoys took their seats and was still in heavy debate when an aide came in and announced mid-meal. I was escorted to a place in the midst of the Lorie entourage and I wondered if this would be the precedent for all meals. I sat through the formal lunch sipping my tea and rearranging the food on my plate to make it appear that I had eaten at least some of it. My headache was coming back full force so I half listened to the conversation going on around me, focusing the rest of my attention of fighting the nausea the smell of the food was causing.

I was able to excuse myself about fifteen minutes before the afternoon session was due to begin on the premise of using the facilities. After a quick stop to keep myself honest, I headed into the gardens outside the meeting room. Dropping to my knees in a secluded corner, I slipped into a light meditation trance to reenergize for the next session.

I was feeling a bit more in control when the sounds of the delegates moving through the gardens pulled me from my light meditation. After they had passed, I rose, straightened my clothing and brushed the dirt from my leggings before following them into the conference room, hoping that I could continue to hold myself together.

The afternoon's discussion went pretty much the way of the morning's. I buried my frustration as the delegates circled around the same point from every possible angle, asserting myself politely time and time again to get them back on the topic at hand. By the mid-afternoon break, I was pleased that I had finally convinced them to agree on the first item and move onto the second.

Still chatting amiably among themselves, the delegates milled around the room during the short reprieve, partaking of the cold juices and fresh baked snacks being served. Sipping slowly from my own glass, I moved out onto the balcony overlooking the garden I had meditated in after lunch, trying to draw comfort from the Living Force with in. I was so focused on renewing my struggling body that it took a touch on my shoulder to pull me back to the moment.

"Beautiful isn't it," a Niatchie woman, a few years older than I, said softly, in precisely spoken basic. "Our gardeners have gone to great lengths to sow the garden with many plants native to the Niatchie jungles."

"The natures reserves on the Niatchie continent must be superb," I replied. Looking up at her more closely, I recognized her as Elspeth Pelagia's personal assistant.

She looked out over the gardens, her eyes unfocused as if she was lost in a memory as she said, "Although I was only a small child, I remember that the last Jedi emissary to witness the treaty came to visit at our family compound. My grandfather took him for an extensive tour of the countryside and he really loved the nature reserves," she commented with a smile.

"Yes, that is definitely the type of place he would love to spend time in," I answered softly, thinking how much Qui-Gon would have loved immersing himself in the Living Force of the jungle reserves.

"Do you know our last Jedi emissary, Knight Kenobi?" the woman asked.

Before I could answer, Elspeth Pelagia appeared behind the woman and said warmly, "I would say that Jedi Kenobi knows him very well, my daughter, since Qui-Gon Jinn was his Master."

Among other things I thought, fighting a smile. I looked between the young woman and the Senior Niatchie Envoy, chiding myself for not realizing earlier that the two were related. I felt a moment of surprise at Elspeth's knowledge of the details of my life but it quickly faded. The Council always provided a dossier on the individual serving on this type of negotiations to the requesting parties. I regained my composure and replied with a smile, "Yes, after thirteen years of living with someone you do get to know the things they enjoy."

"How is your Master, Knight Kenobi?" Elspeth asked. "I heard he has been ill." My surprise at her knowledge of that not too widely known fact must have showed on my face because she continued. "When I contacted the Jedi Council for an emissary, I asked if Master Jinn would be available to serve in that role. Master Windu informed me that he was recovering from an injury sustained on his last mission and suggested that you be sent in his place."

"He is greatly improved, Mer Pelagia, though he is still a few tens away from returning to the mission roster," I assured her. "I will relay your concern over his health. I am sure he will appreciate it." Qui-Gon would be pleased to know that his logic had been proven out and I would have to relay that to him as well during my next call.

"Please do," she replied before motioning to the table behind us. "We are ready to continue if you are." Nodding in reply, I used a few seconds to again call on the Living Force around me for strength and returned to the negotiating table.

This part of the session moved a little more quickly then the first half and I managed to get them to agree on the second point and begin discussion on the third. It was a few minutes after 2000 when Ser Zuhayr announced that we would be breaking for the day and moving back into the dining area for late-meal. I took a moment to look through the remaining points that would need to be resolved and was relieved to find that there were only two more major and a scattering of minor ones. Though the Council's original timeline had been gravely miscalculated, I mentally created a new agenda for the remaining discussions. My plan might be aggressive but if I could get them to come to terms by tomorrow evening, I could witness the signing at dawn the next morning and be back on Coruscant to have breakfast with Qui-Gon and Anakin.

I walked as slowly as possible as I made my way through the gardens, taking a few extra minutes to replenish myself. I stopped for a moment at a small flowering shrub, drawn by its deep blue blossoms emitting a smell that was hauntingly familiar. Leaning forward I inhaled deeply from the bloom and my heart skipped a beat as I realized that it smelled exactly like the shampoo Qui-Gon had used for all my years with him. The familiar scent filling my nostrils renewed the feelings of loneliness I had been struggling to contain and I fought to suppress a sob. Why was I having such a hard time with being apart from him? My first mission should have been something I savored every moment of - not something that I was counting the seconds of until it would be over. What was wrong with me?

My self-recriminations came to an abrupt halt as someone spoke to me. I turned to see Elspeth Pelagia's daughter looking over at me in concern. "I'm sorry, Mes Pelagia, is there something I can help you with?" I asked in an attempt to salvage my lapse.

"Please call me Annot. Are you okay, Knight Kenobi? You seem to be distressed," she said.

Great. Now I was allowing my weakness to jeopardize the mission by having the daughter of the Senior Niatchie Envoy sense my upset. "Thank you for your concern but I am fine, Annot," I lied as I strengthened my shields.

"Not from where I am standing," Annot contradicted gently. "I am a natural empath, Knight Kenobi and from what I can sense you are anything but fine." She must have sensed my increased upset because she added. "You have done an excellent job of hiding your anguish. I'm sure it has not been noticed by anyone else." She looked at me intently and it felt as if she could see into my very soul. "Aside from the physical pain radiating from you, I sense a great emptiness in you," she stated finally, "as if half of you is missing."

Her insight shocked me. She had been in close proximity to me for only a few minutes the entire day and in those few minutes she had managed to see through all of my carefully erected facades. "It is," I whispered. The look she gave me was so compassionate that suddenly the need to talk about what I was feeling flooded me. "The injury that my Master suffered was almost fatal. After thirteen years at his side, I am finding it very difficult to be away from him while he is still recovering."

Annot gave me a knowing look and said, "He is more than a Master to you isn't he, Knight Kenobi?"

The incongruity of discussing something so personal with someone who was treating me so formally filled me and I half laughed. "Please call me Obi-Wan. And yes, he is more than my Master. We are pledged to one another and had planned on taking the first step towards becoming bonded mates at my Knighthood. His injuries have postponed that."

"You ache for him," she said softly as she reached down to take one of my hands.

I could feel the pain within me lessening at her touch and I pulled my hand away as if I had been burned. "What are you doing, Annot?"

"As I said, I am a natural empath and as such I can bleed off some of your pain," she contended. "Let me help you, Obi-Wan."

I looked up at her incredulously, having difficulty coming to terms with her suggestion. The idea was so foreign to everything that being a Jedi meant - we helped people; we did not rely on other people for help. But controlling my rebelling body was becoming more difficult by the moment and I wondered if I would be able to complete the mission as I was.

Annot must have sensed my turmoil because she again grasped my hand. "Situations like this are why I was given my gifts. Let me do this, Obi-Wan," she insisted. "Both for you and for the people of Ansion. This treaty is central to our way of life." A slight smile shone on her face as she added, "We both know that mediating debates between the Lorei and the Niatchie is a task that requires a being to be at full strength."

The logical part of my mind pondered her suggestion while my heart fought against it. I was a Jedi Knight. I should not need any assistance to function in the role I had been trained for all my life. But Qui-Gon had always told me that although we all should strive to be self sufficient, refusing help out of pride was the greatest form of weakness. Was that what I was doing? Refusing her help because I was too proud to admit I needed it?

She watched me intently as I continued my internal struggle even as she allowed me to work through it. How could I accept this from her? I knew what being an empath involved. In drawing off my pain, she would be absorbing it into herself and as such would be subjected to the pain in all its intensity. How could I consciously allow her to do that? How would she be able to fulfill her duties to the negotiations if she was strengthening me?

A gong sounding off in the distance pulled me from my thoughts and I looked up to see Annot glancing towards the dining area. She took my hand again, instinctively drawing off some of my distress as she spoke. "They are getting ready to serve the meal. Please consider my offer seriously, Obi-Wan. I know that you are concerned about the affect helping you will have on me. I am already feeling your anguish. At least this way, you would be receiving some benefit from that."

I squeezed her hand for a moment and then pulled away. "I will contemplate your offer, Annot. And whether I am able to accept or not, please know that I am truly touched by your compassion and consideration. You are a credit to your gifts." Without waiting for a reply, I placed her hand on my arm and escorted her into the dining room.

Late-meal was a much more formal affair than mid-meal had been. My place for this sitting was among the Niatchie contingent, at the junction of two tables, which would allow easy conversation with a number of their delegates including Elspeth Pelagia. Wine glasses were filled as plates containing the first course were settled before each person. As the small plate of appetizers was placed in front of me, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the smell of the food was not causing my nausea to return full force. I still had to concentrate to keep the worse of it at bay, but it had lessened drastically from mid-meal and I wondered how much of that was the result of Annot's actions in the garden.

I nibbled at a couple of the more basic items as I half-heartedly followed the conversation around me. Much of the discussion surrounded the menu for the evening, which did not surprise me since both cultures enjoyed food as heartily as they enjoyed the art of debate. I wondered how long it would take for someone to notice my lack of enthusiasm though I hoped I could manage to keep that lack from being taken as an affront.

After a few more moments, Farr Zuhayr picked up his wineglass, rose from his seat and turned towards where I was seated. "We made remarkable progress in the talks today much of which was the result of the efforts of our Jedi emissary. Thank you, Obi-Wan Kenobi, for your diligent efforts on behalf of the peoples of Ansion." He raised his glass in my direction and the rest of the assembly followed his lead. Everyone took a long sip from the magenta liquid in toast to my accomplishment and I wondered what they would think if they knew the underlying motive for my perseverance.

I rose and half-bowed in acceptance of the accolade. "Thank you for your kind words but you give me too much credit for your own efforts. I am just the instrument through which you have resolved these details. Resolution of the points that have been agreed upon so far is definitely the result of your cooperation and consideration for each other." With another half-bow, I dropped back into my seat.

"Your Master has trained you well, Knight Kenobi," Elspeth said softly with a warm smile. "You are a credit to his teachings."

My heart swelled at her kind words, even though I was sure she was unaware of their import. This was the highest compliment anyone could have paid me. Unable to form the words to express my feelings, I just smiled back and allowed the sheer joy of the compliment to fill me.

I was able to decline a serving of the second course saying I was saving myself for the main meal. Hopefully I would be able to eat enough of it to keep anyone from realizing I was struggling. Light conversation continued and I used the time to watch the interactions around the table. No matter how heated the discussions got during the talks, outside of the conference room, the Lorei and the Niatchie interacted like long lost relatives, not opposing factions.

I actually managed to eat some of the main course and as I caught Annot looking at me I knew she was responsible. I commented on the conversation going on around me at regular enough intervals that no one suspected that I had not been following it intently. But the night still stretched out almost unbearably and I was never more relieved than when the waiters brought out the trays of after dinner cordials.

After a few more minutes of struggled socializing in the small antechamber, I moved over to join Elspeth and Farr where they were talking pleasantly. "Unless either of you has further need of me this evening, I will retire to my quarters. I find that I am still adjusting to the time variance from Coruscant," I explained, hoping they would not look too deeply at my excuse.

"Rest well, Knight Kenobi," Elspeth said with a warm smile.

"May the gods guard your slumber," Farr wished, then added with a hint of concern. "Please let your aide know what you would like sent up for first-meal. It seems the choices this morning were not to your liking."

Appalled that my weakness could have caused him to question his hospitality, I quickly contrived an explanation that would suffice. "Everything looked delicious but I had eaten a rather abundant late-meal before leaving the Temple just a few hours earlier." Smiling when I saw him relax at my statement, I added, "I look forward to the opportunity to sample those items in the morning."

"I will see to it," Farr replied and I nodded my goodnights, relieved that I had managed to avert a diplomatic faux pas.

I made it a few meters away from the dining hall before my exhaustion caught up with me and I leaned heavily against the wall as I rounded a corner. The tight controls I had maintained on myself to remain functioning were extremely taxing and I wondered if I would be able to keep them up for another thirty-six hours, at minimum. I had barely rested for a minute when the sound of footsteps approaching forced me to pull myself together.

"Do not do that on my account," echoed to me before the voice's owner came into view. I compelled myself to straighten as I turned to face Annot. "This day has been trying for you," she said in concern.

"Nothing a good night's sleep won't cure," I said with a smile.

"Only if that night's sleep was back in your quarters on Coruscant," she contradicted as she placed her hand on my arm. "But we have to make do with what's available, so let me escort you back to your quarters." Sensing her determination, I gave in silently and I could feel her steady appraisal as we made our way across the compound to my assigned rooms.

My hope that she would leave me after we reached my quarters was quickly dashed as she followed me through the door. "Can I get you anything?" I asked, attempting to follow the rules of etiquette. But it was all for naught when I stumbled as I approached the small serving bar and had to grasp the edge to keep from falling.

Annot's hand was on my arm again, siphoning off the pain that was now almost overwhelming me. "Sit down before you fall down, Obi-Wan," she ordered as she pushed me into a chair. Closing my eyes, I sank into it with a sense of relief. I stayed that way for a few minutes, working to dispel my discomfort rather than controlling it. I could feel her continual probes of my condition but I was too exhausted to put up much resistance. Finally, her distress was evident as she spoke again. "This pain within you is not just a result of your mental distress, Obi-Wan. Although I have been unable to discern its cause, this tangible ache is a symptom of some underlying physical problem. Only a trained Healer would be able to find the exact cause. I think you should contact the Jedi Council and asked them to send someone to relieve you."

"No," I shouted, then quickly controlled my voice and repeated. "No, I must complete my mission." The argument seemed weak even to my own ears as I looked inward and gauged my physical state. But I was nothing if not resourceful, as Qui-Gon had so often told me so I would have to find a way to make it through. Looking up into her concerned face, I thought back to her earlier offer. As I realized it was my only option, I hoped that I was making the right choice and would not cause her too much suffering. "I will not falter in this and I will do whatever it takes to accomplish my mission. Are you still willing to help me?"

She studied me intently for a few moments as if weighing the question then finally admitted softly, "When I approached you about helping you to cope with your pain, what I was sensing from you was an overwhelming loneliness and the ache of longing. But now that I look at your condition more thoroughly and see that the cause is as much physical as emotional, it may be beyond the scope of my abilities." She must have seen the confusion in my eyes because she continued to explain. "I have been trained to use my ability to alleviate pain caused by mental trauma and diagnosed physical illnesses or injuries. Using those skills to suppress pain of unknown origin could cause you more harm than good."

Realizing that she would not help me unless she felt certain she would not harm me, I swallowed my pride and admitted, "There is no physical reason for my pain, Annot, of that I am certain. It is the result of my own weakness, my overwhelming need to be with Qui-Gon and my inability to function in the role that he has trained me for all these years." The genuine compassion in her eyes broke something inside me and the floodgates holding back my feelings crumbled. "This is my first official mission since I achieved my Knighthood, a Knighthood I am not sure I fully deserve. I must complete my mission. I cannot fail the Order. I will not fail him again," I added in a whisper.

The silence in the room was deafening as I watched her consider my confession. She closed her eyes as she pondered, the slight tension between her eyebrows the only sign of her internal struggle. Finally, she opened her eyes and locked them with mine. "I will help you but with one condition. If there comes a point where my assistance is no longer enough to help you, then you will notify the Jedi Council."

Relief flooded through me as she spoke. I felt no qualms at agreeing to her condition, since I was sure that with her aid, I could manage to keep my rebellious body functioning, at least enough to complete the negotiations. "Agreed. Thank you," I replied sincerely as I extended my hand. The moment our hands touched, I could feel her absorbing some of the pain that coursed through me. I allowed it for only a minute before gently extracting my hand and rising to my feet. "Meditation and a few hours in a healing trance will help me to purge a good portion of my pain into the Force during the night. You should save your strength as I expect that by mid day tomorrow I will be in need of your assistance."

She studied me for a moment, then said, "If you are certain. Rest well, Obi-Wan."

"You as well, Annot, and thank you again for your generous concern," I replied as I walked her to the door. "I will see you at the morning session." She smiled in reply and headed down the hallway to her quarters.

Glancing at the chrono as I secured the door behind me, I saw it was now a little after 2200. With the time difference on Coruscant, Qui-Gon and Anakin would probably be in the dining hall having late-meal so I decided to spend a couple of hours in meditation before contacting them. Heading into the sleep chamber, I quickly stripped down to my leggings and inner tunic and moved onto the balcony. I settled on my knees in a spot by the railing, focused on the smells and sounds in the air and dropped into a meditative trance.

When I came back to awareness it was almost three hours later but I was feeling better than I had since before my ship had made the jump to hyperspace. My headache had receded to a dull throbbing at the base of my skull and my nausea was reduced to a minor inconvenience. Deciding I had better take advantage of that fact, I moved back into the common room and activated the holounit.

Sitting down in front of the player, I entered in the private code for a live feed into our quarters and waited. I was almost ready to give up when the light informing me that the signal had been accepted came on and Qui-Gon's beloved face filled the screen. "Good evening, my Master and Anakin," I added with a smile when I caught sight of him standing beside Qui-Gon's chair.

"Hello Padawan and Hi Obi-Wan," came from the speaker simultaneously then Qui-Gon added, "How is your mission going?"

"Exactly as you predicted it would. The Lorei and the Niatchie do have a gift for in-depth discussions," I replied.

"Such a polite term for senseless arguments," he chuckled. "I have taught you well." He grasped at his chest as the chuckles morphed into a cough and I could see Anakin looking down at him in concern.

"Master, are you all right?" I asked, my own chest tightening in apprehension as I watched him sip from the glass of water Anakin had quickly produced.

"I am fine, my own. My lungs just aren't ready for me to be laughing," he insisted. Anakin seemed like he wanted to contradict that but after a quick look from Qui-Gon he stepped back. But before I could question the boy, Qui-Gon asked, "Who are the Senior Envoys for the talks?"

"Farr Zuhayr for the Lorei and Elspeth Pelagia for the Niatchie," I replied, my mind shifting back to my earlier conversation. "Elspeth sends you her wishes for a speedy recovery. And you were right Master, this wasn't coincidence. When Elspeth contacted the Council she requested you but when you weren't available Master Windu suggested I go in your place."

Qui-Gon's image smiled as he commented, "Her grandfather, Andreth Sinoch, was the Niatchie envoy for the last signing and Elspeth was his aide. I was a guest at their family compound for a few days after the treaty was signed."

"So Annot told me," I said. "She is serving as her mother's aide for these talks."

"Little Annot?" he asked in disbelief. "She was such a precocious child."

"Well, it has been twenty-five years Master, so she is no longer a child though I think she may still qualify as precocious," I responded with a smile of my own.

"Enjoy your time with them, Obi-Wan," he instructed. "They are compassionate and caring people and as you know very few missions can actually be enjoyable."

"I will, Master," I promised and then the conversation went on to more mundane topics. Anakin told me about his day, beaming when he said he got a perfect score on his astro-navigation exam. Qui-Gon interjected a few comments but mostly he just sat back and let Anakin talk. I watched our Master as I listened, soaking in the sight of him and storing it deep in my heart. He looked a bit pale but it was hard to tell if that was the result of the quality of the transmission or something more.

After finishing the tale of his day, Anakin said his goodbyes and excused himself. I used the opportunity to ask the question that had been looming heavy in my heart since that cough. "Qui-Gon, are you sure you're all right?" I asked, wishing that the holo transmission would allow me to sense his condition, even though I knew that would allow him to sense mine.

"Stop worrying about me, Obi-Wan. I am fine," he insisted. "But as much as I am enjoying talking to you, we probably should end our call. It must be very late there and you must be tired. Plus if I remember correctly, the talks usually begin not too long after dawn."

I knew he was right but I found myself wanting to prolong the call, to keep at least this tiny connection to the man I missed so much. With a heavy sigh, I reluctantly agreed. "I guess I should get some sleep." I reached out and rested my hand against his image. "I love you, Qui-Gon. Stay well and I'll see you soon."

He duplicated my motion, placing his hand so that our palms appeared to be touching. "As I love you, my own. Hurry home to me," he said with uncharacteristic emotion before his image vanished from the screen.

My heart clenched as the screen went black and I forced myself to turn off the unit. The pain I had managed to purge during my meditation came back full force as the connection was severed and I fought to rise from the chair. Knowing that I would need to regain control over my body for the morning, I headed into the bedroom, stripped down to my linens and slipped into the bed. I settled under the covers, set my internal clock for daybreak and slowed my breathing as I dropped into a light healing trance.

Though it wasn't quite the same as actually sleeping, five hours in a healing trance did wonders for me. As I rolled out of bed and headed into the shower, I actually felt the mild stirrings of appetite. Pulling the Force into me to try to keep this level of function, I cleaned up and dressed for the day.

Farr Zuhayr had kept his word and when I entered the common room I found another tray with tea, and an assortment of native fruit and breakfast breads. Knowing that getting some nutrition into my body was important, I sat at the counter in front of the food. I slowly drank a cup of the dark tea, and managed to eat two slices of the cionet bread and a piece niala fruit. After another mug of tea, I grabbed my cloak and headed to the conference room.

I could feel Annot's surprise at the improvement in my condition as I moved to greet each of the delegates. I could sense a portion of her attention on me as we settled into our seats and the debates began. Discussion on point three took a back slide almost as soon as we began and it took us most of the morning to get back to where we had been the previous night. By the time they announced the break for mid-meal, I was drawing heavily on the Force to maintain my control.

Annot came over to where I was seated as the other delegates started to the dining hall, pointing to the datapad in front of me as if she was questioning a specific point. When the last representative finally exited the room, I slumped down into my seat in relief. The debate had been so passionate that we had not even taken a short break during the five hours and I was at my limit.

Grabbing both my hands in hers, Annot spoke softly. "Relax, Obi-Wan, and let me help you."

I struggled to rise to my feet. "Need to get to the garden. The Living Force will help me to purge the pain." I was relieved when she didn't try to argue and just siphoned off a bit of my pain and helped me to my feet. I was thankful that I was able to walk out of the room unaided and that the gardens were empty when we entered. We found a secluded bench in the opposite corner and I half collapsed onto it as I allowed my eyes to close.

Annot settled down beside me and took my hands in hers as she had the night before. I could feel the pain and nausea within me lessening as she pulled it into herself. When it had lowered to a more manageable level, I pulled my hands away and opened my eyes. "Thank you," I said softly. She attempted to take my hands again but I moved them out of her reach. "No, do not overexert yourself. What you have already done has helped me tremendously. A few minutes of drawing energy from the Living Force will restore me enough to continue."

Although she didn't look thoroughly convinced, Annot nodded her agreement and relaxed back on the bench to purge the pain she had absorbed. I settled into the comforting currents of the Force and allowed its power to reenergize me. By the time the gong sounded announcing that mid-meal was being served, I was feeling much improved.

The informal buffet setting of this meal was a relief. I would be able to select small portions of the few items that my unruly stomach could actually palate and not fear offending my hosts. The meal passed with the same light conversation of the previous ones and I was relieved that I only had to participate occasionally. I was able to excuse myself as I had the day before and again spent the interlude in the gardens preparing for the afternoon session.

The afternoon session went slightly better than the morning and, by the time we paused for a short break a bit before 1600, the two groups had finally come to terms on the third point of the treaty. I had been better able to control my pain during this session and was able to make my way to the balcony overlooking the gardens on my own. I was not surprised to sense Annot following behind me but I didn't give it much thought when I heard her mother call her back before she reached the door. She was Elspeth's aide after all. So I allowed my surroundings to fade into the background and focused on the currents of the Force around me.

A few minutes later I felt Annot approaching again but when I turned to greet her, I was surprised to find her accompanied by Elspeth. My confusion must have been evident on my face because Annot shrugged her shoulders as she moved to stand beside me. When the Senior Niatchie Envoy slid the balcony doors closed behind her, I knew this was not a social visit but before I could question her she spoke.

"Although Annot has been less than forthcoming in answering my queries on the matter, I know her well enough to be aware that she has been using her talents to assist you with some physical difficulty." I opened my mouth to attempt an explanation but she held up her hand to stop me. "Knowing the level of dedication that your Master and the Jedi in general maintain, I can only assume that you are accepting her assistance in order to complete your mission and fulfill your duty to Ansion. While I truly appreciate this effort, your dedication concerns me. In your vigilance to serve our needs, do not extend yourself so far as to cause yourself harm."

Relieved that although Elspeth knew of our collusion, she had decided not to press either of us for the details of the situation, I quickly sought to reassure her. "I appreciate your concern on my behalf, but I am confident that I can fulfill my duty without any harm to Annot or myself." At her smile, I felt emboldened and added, "Especially if the talks continue to move forward at this increased pace and I can get the delegates to agree on the final points this evening."

"You are as ambitious as you are dedicated, Knight Kenobi," she replied with a glint in her eyes, before sliding open the doors and returning to the conference room.

"I'm sorry, Obi-Wan," Annot apologized as soon as her mother disappeared. "I should have realized that my mother would notice the effect siphoning your pain would have on me."

Knowing I would have had no better luck hiding something like that from Qui-Gon, I sought to reassure her. "It's okay, Annot. I, more than most, know how difficult it is to hide anything from someone who knows you that well." Before she could reply, I noticed the delegates taking their places at the table. I drew on the Force once more to augment my struggling body then took her by the arm and escorted her back into the negotiations.

The delegates had managed to agree on the two remaining minor points relatively quickly but the discussion on the last major point was going nowhere. It seemed like every time I got one person to see the benefits of compromise, someone else found another reason to object to it. I drew on every negotiating trick Qui-Gon had ever taught me but I was unable to make any progress in getting the two delegations to come to an agreement. The discussion went back and forth for about two hours although the pounding behind my eyes made it feel more like two days. It was taking every bit of training and stamina I possessed to hold the pain at bay enough to direct the negotiations.

Glancing at the chrono mounted on the opposite wall, my resolve faltered when I saw that it was now almost 1830. If the talks followed yesterday's pattern, there was only a little over an hour left to get them to come to an agreement. Otherwise the talks would continue into tomorrow and even if the negotiations concluded quickly, tradition called for the signing to occur at dawn so I would be unable to leave until the following day. Forcing back both my frustration and my pain, I concentrated all my efforts on the agreement I was trying to forge.

During one particularly heated outburst between the groups, my struggle with my pain must have become apparent to Annot because she lingered with her hand resting comfortingly between my shoulder blades, absorbing my discomfort as she refilled my water goblet and the one belonging to the delegate on my right. I met her quick glance with a smile of appreciation, hoping that no one other than Elspeth had noticed the gesture before turning my full attention back to the task at hand.

The last point of debate was the Lorei request to build an educational marine research facility along a secluded section of shoreline on Niatchie's largest ocean. Although the two cultures valued equity in all things, they also valued the separateness of their societies. There were instances where one culture had allowed encroachment by the other for a specified purpose but those were few and far between. The debate raged on. One delegate or another rejected, without much consideration, every suggestion I made for an equitable compromise by the Lorei. I had run out of viable options and was beginning to think that an agreement on this particular issue may be impossible when Elspeth Pelagia rose from her seat.

"Although the uniqueness of our individual cultures is something we all value greatly, I feel the time has come for us to move forward into some joint ventures," she explained. "Rather than a separate research facility for the Lorei, I suggest an addition to the existing facility at Raonu Cove where the Niatchie and Lorie could work together." The shocked silence in the room as she settled back into her seat was almost deafening and I wondered how soon it would be replaced by an eruption of chaos.

I was pleasantly surprised when after a few low grumbled comments from various delegates around the room, Farr Zuhayr stood up and addressed the room. "My esteemed colleague appears to have been bestowed with the wisdom of the ages. I concur with her brilliant solution to our current stalemate and suggest that we expand on it by creating a joint hydroponics facility on Solianet."

It took only a few minutes of mostly silent contemplation for the remaining delegates to put their support behind their leaders' suggestions. Basic issue decided, the next half hour was spent hammering out the exact wording on this revised segment of the treaty. Although I was almost at the end of my endurance, the exhilaration of knowing that the main debates had been resolved helped me to force myself forward.

After the verbage discussion was concluded, the majority of the delegates moved from the conference room to the dining area to begin their celebration of the accord. Within moments, only Annot, her Lorei counterpart, the calligrapher and myself remained in the room to review the wording of the full document. I silently thanked Qui-Gon for the years of relentless training in the nuances of language that I had grudgingly endured at his side when it allowed me to easily smooth over any wording concerns in the final edition.

Surprisingly it took less than a half hour for us to review, edit and approve the final version of the treaty. After we finished, the Lorie assistant collected the final draft of the document and escorted the calligrapher into the small workroom that had been prepared for her. Annot and I looked over at each other as they exited but I was the first one to voice the question on both our minds.

"That was an unexpected shift of position. Did you have any idea that your mother would be suggesting such a change?" I asked.

"I was as astounded by it as you were," she replied. "Though I did notice that she seemed to be deep in thought a number of times during these last few hours, I just passed it off as concentration on the proceedings. In hindsight, I see that she must have been mentally strategizing on the best time to unveil her proposal."

"I truly feel that only positive things will come from this new level of cooperation between the cultures," I said sincerely. "Sharing knowledge and working together for a common goal is always a beneficial experience for all."

"Not to mention that this turn of events will allow you to return home that much sooner," Annot teased.

"Although I would have done whatever it took to complete the mission, I must say that knowing I will be able to return to Qui-Gon in the morning is like having the weight of the galaxy lifted from my shoulders," I admitted diffidently.

Before I could say anything else, a young page entered the room and announced, "Ser Zuhayr has sent me to collect you both. They are awaiting your arrival before beginning to serve dinner."

After a quick glance at me, Annot rose and answered succinctly, "Tell Ser Zuhayr that we will be there momentarily," looking intently at the boy until he bowed and turned away. Placing her hands on my back as she had earlier, she drained off a portion of the pain I had been struggling to contain then grasped my arm. "Come on, Obi-Wan. The sooner we get in there, the sooner dinner will be concluded and you can get some rest."

We entered the dining room to find that everyone else had already taken his or her seats. My apprehension over not having time to stop in the gardens to rejuvenate was alleviated somewhat when I noticed the placement of the two remaining seats. They were set together, in the place beside Elspeth, and I smiled at her in gratitude for her consideration as I settled into the chair.

If anything this meal was more elaborate than last night's, with the time between the courses expanded to allow the various delegates to share their personal views on both the negotiations and the treaty itself. I found my hold on the headache and nausea waning a few times as the night inched onward and I was grateful to have Annot's subtle help to keep it in check. Thankfully, I was able to acknowledge the gratitude expressed by a number of representatives with smiles and a few short words of thanks and was not called upon to make any lengthy speeches.

After what seemed like an eternity but was in reality only two hours, final dishes were collected and people rose from their seats. Young pages passed trays of liquor glasses around and the celebratory toasts began. My stomach lurched in protest as I brought the glass of pungent liquid to my lips to feign drinking from it and it took all of my focus to retain control. Annot immediately sensed my distress and reached her left hand across her body to rest atop mine under the cover of the table. As the first toasts by Farr and Elspeth spread to toasts from other delegates, only her assistance kept me from vomiting each time I raised the glass to my lips.

When the toasts concluded, people began inching away from the tables to mingle. After those around us had moved off into smaller groups, I was able to deposit my still full glass on the table without drawing attention to it. I stayed standing at the table for a long moment, drawing on the Force for strength, then proceeded to where the two Senior Envoys were talking in hushed tones.

I bowed formally when they looked up and said, "If you have no further need of me, I will say my goodnights. I need to transmit my report to the Council and arrange for a transport to collect me in the morning."

"We would be honored if you would remain for a few days," Farr Zuhayr invited. "It would give us the opportunity to show you something of our world outside the walls of the conference room."

Although it shouldn't have, the request came as a surprise and I had to think quickly to refuse in a way that would not offend my hosts. "As much as I would love the prospect of exploring Ansion, I regret that I have duties awaiting me on Coruscant. If the offer can be postponed, I would love to return and partake of your hospitality at a later date."

"You are now a part of our history and culture, Knight Kenobi, so you are welcome to return as soon and as often as you would like," Farr replied.

"Maybe your Master could accompany you," Elspeth added. "It has been many years since Ansion has had the pleasure of his presence."

The thought of spending time with Qui-Gon in some of the remote locations I had read of in the mission briefing warmed me and I couldn't help but smile. "Force willing, both Qui-Gon and I will be able to visit sometime in the not too distant future."

"We will look forward to it," Farr replied before changing the subject. "The shuttle to the signing pavilion will depart at 0515, from the hangar your transport landed in. Rest well, Knight Kenobi. We will see you in the morning."

I exited the room through the doorway into the garden and was not surprised to sense Annot following a few moments behind. I dropped onto the first bench I reached, pulling wisps of the Force from the life surrounding me as I waited for her to appear. I could sense her weariness as she approached and I resolved that I would not allow her to deplete herself any further.

"How are you holding up?" she asked without preamble.

"About the same as you are, I would expect," I answered. "But a few hours of meditation and some sleep should allow me to fulfill my duties come morning."

"That combined with the knowledge that you are homeward bound should help to restore your energy levels," she observed with a hint of a smile.

I looked at her intently as she sat down beside me and marveled at how this amazing woman had seen through my heaviest mental armor almost right from the start. I owed her so much and although I knew words were not enough, they were all I had at the moment. "I don't think I could have managed these past few hours or the past two days for that matter without your aid, Annot. You have my utmost respect and my eternal gratitude."

"You carry a level of dedication within you, Obi-Wan, that I have never before observed in anyone," Annot maintained. "I was honored to be able to use my skills to help you fulfill your duty and by doing so to aid my people."

"Thank you. Now I think we both need to get some rest," I said as I rose from the bench. When she reached for my hand, I pressed hers back into her lap. "You are exhausted. I can manage to get to my quarters unassisted. Sleep well, I will see you in the morning." Before she could protest, I headed down the walkway that would lead me to my quarters.

By the time I entered my quarters, I felt like I had run five kilometers not just walked six hundred meters. I collapsed onto the sofa, used my remaining energy to pull off my boots and then stretched out along the sofa's length. Although under normal circumstances I would not think of meditating in this position, my exhaustion was such that the thought of getting up to settle onto my knees was more than I could deal with. So after a silent apology to the Force for my laziness, I closed my eyes and dropped into the soothing currents of the Force.

When I surfaced from my meditative trance two hours later, the bone-deep exhaustion was gone and my headache had been reduced to a dull ache behind my eyes. I rose from the couch and after pulling a bottle of water from the serving bar, I settled into the chair at the communications unit. With the time difference, it was now around 2000 on Coruscant. I knew that at this hour, Qui-Gon and Anakin would be in our quarters so I opted to contact them first before I called in my mission report to the duty Master.

I entered the codes and the connection was established much quicker than the previous night. I hid my disappointment when my holonet screen came to life to show Anakin's face and not my Master's. "Hello Obi-Wan," he said as he materialized. "How are you?"

"Hello Anakin," I replied as I studied the boy's image. The quicksilver smile had vanished and his fidgeting spoke loudly of nervousness. "Is everything okay?" I asked, as I inspected the parts of our quarters visible behind him.

"Sure, everything's fine," he replied almost too quickly.

I was certain that he was at least hedging on the entire truth but rather than press him I changed the question. "Could you get Master for me?"

"Um... he's not here right now," he answered.

"Where is he, Anakin?" I asked, my apprehension spiking at the boy's odd behavior.

"He's visiting with Master Windu and some other people," he said hesitantly, again making me feel like I was only getting part of the truth.

Well, there were other ways for me to get my answers. "Okay, I will just have to call him on his comlink."

"I don't think he brought it with him," he announced then changed the subject. "When are you coming home, Obi-Wan?"

"I should be home tomorrow morning, hopefully in time to join you both for first-meal," I replied, the excitement at that prospect overriding the confusion I had been feeling.

"Great," he said, a look that could only be called relief appearing on his face.

Remembering my own discomfort in dealing with my rather unpredictable Master in the early days of my apprenticeship, I wondered if that was the cause of the boy's strange reactions. "Having trouble keeping our Master in line, Anakin?" I teased, smiling as I spoke, hoping the light teasing would lessen his apprehension.

"You have no idea," he muttered. He stood silently for a moment then added in a rush of words. "I have to go, Obi-Wan. I'm meeting some classmates to work on a project for astrophysics. See you tomorrow."

Before I could say another word, he broke the connection and the screen in front of me went black. I sat back in disbelief as I peered into the darkened screen, still somewhat confused by Anakin's odd behavior. Although I had only known the boy a little more than two cycles, we had become very close during that time. But this edgy and tense behavior was very unlike the boy I had come to know and I wondered if the responsibility of watching over our still recovering Master was more than he could handle.

Well, sitting here mulling over probable causes was getting me nowhere. The only way I would be able to clear up my confusion was to speak to the Master in question. Hoping Anakin had been mistaken about Qui-Gon leaving his comlink behind, I switched the console to audio only and keyed in his personal comm code. I banked my disappointment when the automated message response came though the speaker instead of Qui-Gon's soft brogue, not wanting it to show in my voice as I left my message.

Good evening, my Master. Since you were out socializing with Mace when I called and seemed to have forgotten your comlink, I had to resort to leaving a message for you. I wanted to let you know that the Lorei and the Niatchie have finally come to terms on all points and the treaty will be signed at dawn tomorrow. So baring a major catastrophe, I should be back at Temple in time to enjoy a late first-meal with you and Anakin. Maybe you could make some fraisebois sweetcakes. I love you, Qui-Gon. Until tomorrow.

Another thought came to me as I ended the message and after switching back to holonet mode, I entered in the code for Mace Windu's quarters. I waited for a couple minutes for the signal to be accepted but when it wasn't, I rejected the option of being sent to his comlink. I exhaled a heavy breath as I severed the connection, trying to purge my frustration at not being able to talk to Qui-Gon. Anxiety over Anakin's strange behavior still filled me but I pushed it to the back of my mind. My headache was quickly returning to its earlier intensity so I figured I'd better take care of my other calls.

I reached the Mission Office quickly and gave a brief report to the Knight on duty. I informed him that the negotiations had been completed and my full written report would be filed within the allotted time frame once I returned. He was also able to process my request for transport, letting me know that he was able to reroute a Temple pilot for a stop on Ansion on his return to Coruscant. I was delighted to hear that the transport would be arriving by 0800 Ansion time. The five hour time difference would work to my advantage this time, putting me back at Temple for first-meal as I had hoped.

After thanking the Knight for his assistance, I closed the connection, set the comm unit to standby mode in case Qui-Gon called back and then headed into the bedroom. It was now almost midnight, which left barely five hours for me to sleep and I knew I would need every minute I could get. I stripped down to my linens, dropped into bed and closed my eyes. After setting my internal chrono to wake me, I drew on the Force to help me slip into a trance-deepened sleep, hoping that five hours would be enough to revitalize my depleted body.

The sky was still dark when my internal clock roused me from sleep. My rest time had not restored me as much as it had the previous night but I felt confident that it would be enough to get me through the next few hours. I took a moment to check the message light on the comm unit, fighting my disappointment that none had arrived. I went through my morning ablutions quickly then tossed everything but my dress uniform back into my bag.

As I donned the various black layers, my mind flashed back to the last time I had worn this uniform. It had been a few tens before the Naboo debacle and Qui-Gon and I had attended a formal reception in honor of the anniversary of Chancellor Valorum's election. After spending the meal together, we had moved on to mingle with the various attendees. I had been well aware of how often his gaze fell on me as I sauntered around the hall, the heat of his lust-filled stares boring into me. I had taken full advantage of the enticement, posing brazenly and brushing up against him at every opportunity.

I had been rewarded by being taken against the door of our quarters as soon as it latched closed behind us. I shivered at the remembered pleasure as I tugged on my dress boots. The erotic image of Qui-Gon, tunics hanging open, leggings pushed down to his boot tops burst into my mind. The frenzied coupling had been amazingly intense and we had collapsed to the floor panting heavily.

I knew that even with the drugs that had affected his libido finally purged from his system, Qui-Gon would not be ready for something that energetic but there were many other things we could do. Anakin would be leaving for his morning classes very soon after my return and I had high hopes for putting that private time to very good use. I finished dressing with images of those anticipated pleasures dancing behind my eyes.

Well there would be time enough to plan out my strategy on the flight home. So after a final check in the mirror to ensure that my stola was even and my sash was straight, I clipped my lightsaber to my belt, tossed my bag over my shoulder and headed to the hangar.

The same young Lorei aide who had originally escorted me to my quarters greeted me at the hangar door. The young man took my bag and stowed it into a compartment in the wall before directing me to where the others had gathered. A mid-sized atmospheric shuttle sat on the tarmac about a meter away from where the group was gathered. As I approached it, the representatives were making their way up the open ramp.

The shuttle was a fairly new and somewhat expensive model with a sleek gray finish on its aerodynamic shape. The ramp and decks were carpeted in a deep blue patterned plush and the travel couches arrayed throughout the ship's midsection were upholstered in a luxurious light gray velour. The ship was definitely top of the line and befitted the status of Lorei Prime Minister.

I settled into a seat at the edge of a row where I would have a good view of the countryside we passed over through the transparisteel portal. When all the other delegates had been seated, the groups containing the two cultures' rulers entered the shuttle. Annot glanced at me as she entered, giving me a warm smile before she continued forward into the ship. She took her place in the front row alongside her mother, the Niatchie Prime Minister and First Secretary. An identically composed Lorie contingent took their place in the other half of the first row led by Farr Zuhayr and his aide.

After the two senior contingents were seated, the steward walked around to ensure that everyone was secure in their seats as the pilot prepared for take off. The ship rose gently on its repulsors and moved gradually from the hangar. We cleared the bay doors and headed into the atmosphere. I watched as the technology of the city cluster was quickly left behind and we moved over the continent's more rural locations. It took only a few minutes for us to ascend to a flight altitude of one thousand meters and settle into a steady travel velocity.

Although the ship being in the atmosphere muted my ability to draw on the Living Force of the planet, I managed to control the lingering pain. The delegates around me were locked in conversations that luckily I was not called upon to contribute to. Using that solitude to my advantage, I strengthened my body as much as I could while I stayed glued to the viewport, my eyes following the shaded outlines of the terrain below us. During the length of the trip, it changed from the deciduous trees dotting the mountainsides of the continent's temperate zone to the jungle foliage of the tropical region.

We had traveled about three hundred kilometers into the tropics when the shuttle began to make its descent. The vehicle's exterior landing lights illuminated the terrain beneath us and I was enraptured by the sight. As we got closer to the ground, the dense foliage separated into individual trees and the thin blue lines that denoted the path of waterways magnified into powerful rivers and waterfalls. The landscape was magnificent and I thought about how much Qui-Gon must have enjoyed his visit here. The natural habitat was almost totally undisturbed and I felt like I could sense the teeming life filling the area even within the confines of the ship.

I had read the briefings and seen the holos but I was still astonished at the sight that filled the viewport as we cleared the last grove of trees. Directly in the center of the narrowest part of the sea that divided the two continents was a small man-made island. The island had been constructed at the exact mid point of the body of water, with half the land considered part of Lorei and the other half being part of Niatchie.

The island had been constructed for the very first treaty signing and the pavilion that now stood on it had been constructed fifty years later for the third. Over the subsequent years, it had been enlarged and embellished but it had remained a divided structure. The half that was part of the Lorei continent was adorned with art and artifacts representing their history and culture and the Niatchie half was decorated with representations of their culture. Even the external architecture showed the visible divide and I couldn't pull my eyes from the truly unique sight.

The shuttle landed on a small tarmac edging the border of the Lorei continent just as the sky was beginning to fill with hints of pre-dawn light. Two suspension bridges had been erected on opposite sides of the island, each one connecting the island to its respective continent and as the group disembarked from the shuttle, we made our way to the Lorei Bridge. The groups had automatically separated as we left the ship with the Prime Ministers leading each entourage as they processed side by side. I took my expected position beside the Lorei calligrapher who held the box containing the scroll he had so patiently crafted, following silently as the groups moved quickly across.

The groups remained separated as we entered the decorated pavilion. The signing table had been set in its traditional spot in the exact center of the room with a number of smaller tables set up along the perimeter. Divided first into groups based on which culture had hosted the talks, these tables were then set up chronologically, each displaying a glass case enclosing that year's formal treaty and a group of related drawings.

The display set directly behind the signing table contained the most recent treaty and I couldn't suppress my smile as I my eyes fell upon a drawing that depicted Qui-Gon overseeing that signing. The pose was slightly different than the one on the wall of my quarters but it still portrayed him in all of his understated grace. I allowed my eyes to linger on the image for a moment longer, drinking in the sight of him before refocusing on the task at hand buoyed by the knowledge that I would be going home to him very soon.

The Lorei calligrapher deposited the case reverently on the table then moved to stand off in his people's section of the building. Alone I moved behind the table, opened the clear box and removed the delicate scroll. Holding the gaze of the group assembled opposite me, I unrolled the parchment then picked up the writing implements that had been placed on either side.

Extending my hands with a quill resting in each palm, I declared fervently. "Today, along with renewing the treaty that has connected your cultures for the past two hundred years, the Lorie and Niatchie are embarking on a new journey of cooperation and togetherness. May the Force and all the gods you hold dear watch over and aid you as you begin this joint venture."

Both Prime Ministers took their decorated quills, placed them against the parchment and declared together as they signed, "By my oath as the elected ruler of my people, I commit in signing this treaty that we will all work in unison with our brethren for the best interests of Ansion." The two finished their signatures with a flourish then handed the quills to their Senior Envoys.

The pattern continued, the oaths spoken as the delegates signed, varying only slightly by the person's position in the infrastructure. I stayed frozen in my spot, witnessing each and every signature as it was transferred to the parchment. When the last delegates had signed and placed the quills back down on the table, I sprinkled the drying powder over the ink, let it set for a moment then brushed off the excess.

Picking up the parchment, I held it up and spoke the traditional words. "By your honor and the honor of your families, you have pledged to do all in your power to uphold the provisions of this treaty. May you find strength and harmony in that shared task." I laid it back on the table, rolled it carefully back into a scroll and tied it with a pair of ribbons. Lifting the top of the crystal case, I placed in reverently inside. Relief flooded me as I secured the clasp on the ornate lid, my last official duty to the mission completed with that task.

An air of jubilance filled the area as the case was closed. The delegates mingled throughout the small pavilion, cultural divisions forgotten as they shared the elation of fulfilling this important task. As I listened to snatches of the conversations going on around the room, my mind went back to the last few hours of the negotiations. As glad as I was for the outcome of the debates, now that they were completed I again wondered at the abrupt agreement that had been engineered.

My curiosity got the better of me when I caught sight of Elspeth standing off by herself and I approached her. "Everyone seems very pleased with the new treaty," I said with a slight smile.

"Yes indeed, Knight Kenobi. This is a wonderful path that we will be embarking upon," Elspeth replied.

Her comment gave me the opening I had been looking for. "May I ask you a question, Envoy Pelagia?" When she nodded I continued. "What inspired you to suggest an alternative that is so radical to your planet's culture?"

Her glance shifted from me to where Annot was standing talking with another delegate and back again with a fond smile. "My daughter was my inspiration." She must have seen my confusion because she explained. "Seeing her willingly absorb the pain of a person she had just barely met so that you could perform your duty made me realize that our insular habits no longer served any purpose. We have held on to the old ways long enough, Knight Kenobi. It is time for us to move slowly forward, to recreate our cultures to the point that within a few generations the treaty will no longer be necessary."

Another delegate approached and ended our conversation before I could respond to her disclosure. I politely greeted the new arrival then moved from the building, deep in thought over her admission. I shuddered to think of what might have happened if Mace had given in to my request to refuse this mission. So many things that had seemed irrelevant or just coincidental now showed they had a much deeper purpose. I could almost hear Master Yoda's gentle chiding. 'Occur by accident, nothing does,' he would cackle. For as much self-recrimination I had been feeling over my weakness since I left Coruscant, my need had been the catalyst to this new direction for Ansion. Again one of Qui-Gon's favorite maxims was proving true. The Force does work in truly mysterious ways.

I had only been outside a short time when the delegates began returning to the shuttle. Relief flooded into me, as my headache had been steadily increasing as the time had passed and I knew it wouldn't be too much longer before the nausea followed. I drew on the Force to strengthen me as I walked to the shuttle, thankful that the worst was over. As soon as I was settled onto my transport, I would be able to drop into the meditative trance I would need to revive myself enough to greet Qui-Gon the way I hoped to.

The trip back passed more quickly than I had expected. The knowledge that I would be leaving shortly allowed me to relax and just enjoy the scenery. As we came into the hangar, I caught a glimpse of a small ship with Jedi markings sitting on the tarmac and my heart leapt. All that remained was the formal goodbyes and I would be on my way back to the Temple and Qui-Gon.

Thanks and invitations accompanied the goodbyes of each delegate as they moved passed me and out of the shuttle. I moved onto the tarmac in the company of the two Prime Ministers and their entourage and accepted their thanks and good wishes as well. After a few minutes, everyone else had moved out of the hangar leaving me with just Elspeth and Annot.

I looked intently at Annot and smiled. "It seems that your selfless actions were very inspiring." Her chuckle and slight blush told me that she was fully aware of the conversation that I had shared with her mother back on the island. I took her hand and added seriously, "I don't know if I could have made it through without your aid, Annot. You have my utmost gratitude."

Even as she again drew off my pain, she contradicted me. "You give me too much credit, Obi-Wan. You are a resourceful person. I am certain that you would have found a way to complete your mission."

"I only give credit where credit is due," I replied as I extracted my hand from hers.

I could sense someone approaching from behind me even as Elspeth looked over my shoulder in the direction of the ship we had just left. "I expect that this young man is looking for you, Knight Kenobi," she said with a smile.

Before I could even turn around, a hand clasped on my shoulder and a very familiar voice spoke. "Yes, Knight Kenobi. Your transport awaits."

I forgot all protocol as I turned quickly in surprise and drew my old friend into a quick hug and exclaimed. "Garen, what are you doing here?" He gave me a concerned look as I stepped back, but I evaded his silent question by turning back and introducing him. "May I present Senior Padawan Garen Muln of the Jedi Temple." They both smiled and nodded so I continued. "Garen, this is Senior Niatchie Envoy Elspeth Pelagia and her assistant Annot Pelagia."

"It is an honor to meet you both," Garen replied with a formal bow.

The four of us chatted for a few more minutes before Elspeth excused herself and Annot smiled and said, "I will say my goodbyes as well, Obi-Wan, since I know that you are anxious to return home. I hope that you will have the opportunity to return for a visit in the not too distant future."

"I will do my best," I said. "I'm sure Qui-Gon would love to visit as well so hopefully we will be able to come together." My expression got a bit more serious as I added, "I will not forget your kindness, Annot. Thank you again for everything." I bent into a formal bow then turned and headed across the hangar with Garen at my heels.

After stopping to retrieve my bag, Garen and I headed for his ship. The loading ramp had barely closed behind us when he said sternly, "You look like hell, Kenobi, even worse than you did when your Master was still in the tank. What is going on?"

"I'm fine. I have just been having some headaches, nothing major," I said as forcefully as I could, trying to convince him. "Can we just get going?"

Garen glared at me as we headed down the hallway. "This is me you're talking to, Kenobi, not someone you just met yesterday. This is definitely not 'nothing' but our five hour trip to Coruscant will give me plenty of time to get you to fess up so I guess we can get airborne first." He led us into the cockpit and pointed to the copilot's seat. "Have a seat, buddy, and we'll be off the ground in a few minutes."

After securing my duffle, I settled into the conforming pilot couch, glad to allow my weary body to collapse but even happier to be heading home. I absently looked around the cockpit of the small ship as Garen ran through his final preflight checks. It was one of the newest models of the two person ships the Jedi usually used for quick insertions into volatile situations. The ship was built for speed and sharp maneuvering with heavy shields and standard weapons. Normally, I would have been itching for the opportunity to fly the ship but my growing headache took away any appeal that piloting held. Though I did find it odd that this type of ship had been used for transport duty and as I closed my eyes, I vowed to ask Garen about it after I had rested a bit.

Even with my eyes closed, I felt when the ship's repulsor lifts kicked in and it began its slow journey through the hangar. I used those few moments to draw in as much of the Living Force as possible to augment myself for the journey through hyperspace. I kept my full focus on my connection to the Force, not even dividing my attention enough to watch the planet disappear behind us. Only a few minutes had passed before Garen announced, "We'll be going into hyperspace in five, Kenobi, so be prepared to answer my questions."

The pain as the ship entered hyperspace was even worse than on the trip out. My head felt like a vise had closed around it and every nerve in my body screamed in agony. I may have cried out but I couldn't be sure if the sound I had heard was my own voice or something else. I was so focused on keeping the contents of my stomach from spewing out onto the deck that I barely heard Garen calling out to me. When I didn't answer, I felt his hand on my shoulder and a warm wash of Force healing flowing into me before my world went dark.

I don't know how long I was out of it but I came awake to the animated sound of Garen's voice. I was still having trouble focusing so at first I was only catching snatches of the conversation. "He's definitely sick ...said he had headaches...Force sense is weak..." The voice coming through the comm in reply was familiar and I was struggling to identify it when I heard Qui-Gon's name. "Readmitted to Healer's hall."

That comment got my full attention. I forced my eyes open and reached out for Garen's arm. "What's wrong with Qui-Gon?" I croaked out, fighting the nausea that was quickly reasserting itself.

"Sit back, Obi-Wan," he ordered, worry evident in his voice. "I'm more concerned with you at this moment."

"No, I need to know what is wrong with Qui-Gon," I argued, struggling against my weak body as I leaned closer to the comm unit.

"Your Master is in good hands, Obi-Wan," the voice coming over the comm that I finally identified as Mace Windu explained. "Just a minor setback. Master Jufa has him there so he can keep an eye on him." Mace was as good as Qui-Gon at keeping his voice serene and I wished I could see his face to get some inkling of whether he was being totally honest. But before I could say anything else he continued. "At this point, I am more concerned with your difficulties. Padawan Muln is under strict orders to escort you directly to Healer's Hall. You are to report to Master Jufa when you get there."

Knowing that nothing would keep me from Qui-Gon if that was where he was made it was easy to agree. "Don't worry, Master Windu. I'll head directly to Healer's Hall after we land." 'And to my Master', I added silently.

Garen must have realized that I had agreed too easily because he looked at me knowingly and whispered harshly, "Straight to Master Jufa's office. No detours."

"According to the report you filed last night, you completed the mission successfully in spite of your difficulties," Mace said.

"Partly because of them," I answered with a frown.

He was silent for a moment and I thought he was going to ask for more details but then he changed the subject. "Rest for the remainder of the trip, Knight Kenobi," Mace ordered. "And don't be stubborn. Let Padawan Muln help you if you need it."

"Yes, Master Windu," I replied and as soon I heard the connection click closed, Garen turned to me.

"Damn it, Obi-Wan, you scared me half to death," he growled.

"Don't worry about me, Garen. I'll be fine," I argued.

"Yeah sure and Hoth is a tropical paradise," he muttered. "How long have you been sick?"

Knowing that Garen wouldn't give up until I answered, I explained in as little detail as possible. "It started when I left Coruscant. The pressure on the bond that I have with Qui-Gon when the ship went into hyperspace was almost overwhelming. I have been fighting the headaches and nausea ever since. If it wasn't for Annot, I don't think I could have completed the mission."

"Annot?" he questioned in confusion.

"Annot is a natural empath," I explained. "She was generous enough to use her talents to bleed off some of my pain so that I could fulfill my duties."

Garen looked at me incredulously. "You asked a total stranger for help?"

I couldn't help but chuckle even though it increased the pounding in my head. "You know me too well. No, she sensed my distress and was very adamant that I accept her assistance." I took a deep breath to settle my stomach then asked, "How much longer until we reach Coruscant?"

"About two hours but don't change the subject," Garen shot back. "You and Qui-Gon have been apart from each other a number of times. Why would you have reacted so strongly to it this time?"

"My own weakness, I suppose," I admitted. "It seems I have developed a deep seated emotional need to be with Qui-Gon and have been unable to get past it no matter how hard I try."

"Obi-Wan, you're one of the strongest and most emotionally stable people I know," he argued. "There has to be some reason for this, something that accounts for these physical symptoms."

"If that was the case it would be happening all the time, not just when I'm away from Qui-Gon," I countered. "I appreciate you trying to make me feel better, Garen, but the bottom line is: I don't think I was ready for my Knighthood. Things may have worked out well this time but what will happen in the future when this weakness will keep me from completing my mission."

"You're borrowing trouble, Kenobi," Garen scolded. "Why don't you wait to see what Master Jufa finds when we get back to the Temple." He reached over and placed a hand on my shoulder and my headache and nausea lessened as I felt another strong pulse of Force healing flow into me. "Now why don't you try to get some rest. I'll wake you when we are ready to come out of hyperspace."

I nodded thankfully in reply, not sure I could sleep but relieved that I could end this conversation. Closing my eyes, I used all my focus to settle into a light meditative trance as I had on the trip out. As I was drifting towards that state, my mind replayed the strange conversation I'd had with Anakin last night. In light of the knowledge that Qui-Gon was back in Healer's Hall, his odd behavior was starting to make sense. Having him keep this type of information from me would just not do. I would have to have a long talk with the boy and explain that to him in no uncertain terms. Resolved to that, I allowed myself to settle into a precarious trance.

When I came out of my assisted meditative trance, the pain and nausea had lessened to a manageable level and the chrono on the instrument panel told me almost two hours had passed. Garen must have sensed me surfacing because a bottle of chilled water was pressed into my hand as he asked, "Feeling better?"

I took two long swallows from the bottle, wetting my very dry throat then answered, "Somewhat, thanks. How long before we reach Coruscant?"

Glancing at the display before him, he replied, "About ten minutes." He studied me intently as he spoke, probing me gently with a tendril of the Force. "I have seen you in a variety of conditions over the years, Kenobi, but I have never seen you looking as bad as you did right after the ship went into hyperspace." His lips upturned into a wry smile as he continued to probe me. "You looked even worse than that night that you and Reeft decided to see which of you could drink the most shots of Mrissi amberglow and still stay standing."

My head throbbed only slightly when I chuckled at the memory and I was suddenly very grateful that Garen had been the person to collect me from Ansion. That reminded me of my earlier question. "Garen, how did you end up getting to fly this little gem on transport duty?"

"Exceptional isn't she," he chuckled. "In truth, I just got lucky. She had just undergone some special modifications and Master Koon needed to get to Nirauan in a hurry. Since I had helped her with some testing before, Master Gallia thought it would be the perfect opportunity for me to put her though the paces. The detour to Ansion was a last minute change. I was just prepping the ship to leave Nirauan when the orders came in from the Mission Office to stop on Ansion on the way. I didn't know that you were the person I was picking up until I saw you disembark from that shuttle."

I smiled as he spoke, - 'the Force does work in mysterious ways.'

"We'll be coming out of hyperspace in about sixty seconds," Garen announced, his full attention now on the control panel in front of him. "If you had been feeling better, I would have suggested dropping out of hyperspace early so I could show you what this little baby can do," he added with a touch of regret.

"Maybe I can take a raincheck on that," I replied, a matching regret in my tone, torn between the desire to fly this little beauty and the knowledge that if I did I would most likely be heaving on the deck.

Garen smiled broadly and said, "Well I'm sure that could be arranged. The newly minted Knight who single handedly dispatched a Sith must have a few favors due him from the powers that be."

I couldn't suppress the shudder that went through me at his lightly spoken words. Even though he had said them in jest, I preferred not to be reminded of what that being had almost accomplished. He must have noticed my discomfort because he dropped the subject and refocused on his controls. Only a few more seconds passed before the sleek lines of hyperspace reformed into Coruscant's familiar sky.

The physical relief I felt as we dropped into real space was amazing. Along with again being able to feel the Force created by the billions of beings on the planet below us, the bond between Qui-Gon and I flared back to life as if a door had suddenly been opened. Basking in its comfort, I drew in a few deep breaths to settle myself as Garen contacted Coruscant control for clearance for his approach to the planet. Their voices faded from my awareness as I focused all my attention on my quickly expanding bond with Qui-Gon.

The small part of my brain that was still processing thought was awed by how intense the connection was even at this distance. Focusing inward, I could almost feel the connection strengthening as the kilometers between us dropped away. Although we were still too far apart to communicate mentally, I was able to get a sense of his physical and psychological state. Concentrating a bit harder, I could feel the heaviness in his lungs as they drew in air and the lethargic state of his body. His mind was muzzy and I realized that he was sleeping, his sleep possibly having been deepened by one of the Healers. My mental touch must have begun to rouse him from his slumber and I felt his mind reaching automatically for me even though he was still mostly asleep. Sending a soothing wave of the Force to push him back into a deeper sleep, I gently pulled back from his mind. Frustrated by what I had sensed, I muttered under my breath, "he feels so weak."

It took me a moment to realize that I had spoken louder than I thought when I heard Garen's confused, "what did you say?"

I opened my eyes to see him looking at me strangely but at this point I was too distracted to play word games so I just answered honestly. "Qui-Gon feels so much weaker than he did when I left."

Garen's confused look turned incredulous and he asked, "You can sense your Master's physical condition from here? We are still more than four thousand kilometers away from the Temple."

Still focusing most of my attention on the bond, I shrugged my shoulders and said, "Well, our bond has expanded somewhat since Naboo."

"Somewhat?" he continued in the same incredulous tone. "I can barely tell if my Master is still living from a distance of a thousand kilometers."

I shrugged again, more concerned with just getting to Qui-Gon than the comparisons Garen was making. "So do we have clearance to land?"

"You are definitely your Master's Padawan, Kenobi," he chuckled as he punched me on the arm. "Well schooled in the art of deflection. But to answer your question, we will be on the ground in a few minutes."

"Thanks Garen," I said softly but sincerely as I watched the planet get closer. A tiny part of my mind nagged at the comment that Garen had made about his bond with Master Valonet and in turn redirected my thoughts to the two conversations about the bond I had with Master Jufa. I pondered the possibility of a connection for a few moments then pushed the thoughts aside. Qui-Gon and I had always had a stronger bond than most master/padawan pairs. Our bond had been born in need and peril and had grown even stronger after we became lovers. Then the Spires of the Temple came into view and all analysis of bonds vanished from my thoughts.

As we settled into the approach pattern to the Temple hangar, I could feel Qui-Gon awakening. The sleepiness in his consciousness was fading quickly and I felt him reach out to me, a wave of intense love pouring into my mind. That yearned for mental touch sent my emotions reeling and the moments it took me to center myself allowed the distance to close enough for mind speech. Knowing my controls were still shaky, I sent my own wave of love along with some teasing words. Hello my Master. What is going on? I leave you for two days and you end up right back in the Healer's custody.

Welcome home, my Padawan. It seems that in my dotage, I have developed a need for a nursemaid to keep me from their grasp, he sent in a teasing and amused tone.

Well I will have to make sure that the Council includes that task in the list of duties I am assigned, I sent back in the same amused tone.

His mental tone sobered a bit as he replied, You are destined to be a great Knight, Obi-Wan, so I expect that you will be assigned much more important tasks than nursemaiding an aging and infirm Jedi Master.

I picked up a vague sound but ignored it as I answered this self-deprecating statement. Nothing is more important than you are, my Qui-Gon, I asserted, an edge of anguish coloring my tone. The Order needs you, Anakin needs you and I need you. I will do whatever it takes to keep you safe and healthy. You have my oath on that.

You are more than I deserve, my Obi-Wan, he sent lovingly but before I could say anything else he declared, It's impolite to ignore a companion so answer Garen and I will see you in a few minutes.

Another wash of love filled the bond before he muted the link. I turned to Garen, catching that incredulous look again as I asked, "I'm sorry, Garen, did you say something?"

"I said that we're landing, but you were involved in another conversation," he chuckled, even though his full attention was on the control board. "You'd think after all these years I would be used to these silent exchanges but they still send shivers up my spine. Normal people don't have entire dialogues in their minds."

Garen was an extremely skilled pilot and a tiny bump was the only sign that we had settled onto the tarmac. "Well, I never claimed to be normal, my friend," I laughed as I released my seat restraint. I gathered my bag while he shut down the controls and in a couple of minutes we were heading out of the ship.

Garen insisted on accompanying me to Healer's Hall even though I objected so I finally gave in, not wanting to take time for anything that would delay me getting to Qui-Gon. My headache and nausea had almost disappeared now that we were on the ground and I could feel the pull of the bond. We walked quickly and within a few minutes we were passing through the main entrance to the infirmary.

The bond served almost as a homing beacon so I didn't even have to stop to find out what room Qui-Gon was in. I quickened my pace down the hallway but we had only made it a few more steps before Master Jufa stepped out of an alcove to intercept me. "Welcome back, Knight Kenobi. I hear your mission went well."

Though frustrated by the interruption to my goal, I was too well trained to be impolite. "Thank you. I'm very glad to be home," I answered then asked the question that had been haunting me since I had overheard Garen and Mace. "How is Qui-Gon? What happened to him after I left?"

Master Jufa grabbed my elbow and directed me towards his office door. "He suffered a slight relapse but I expect he will begin to improve dramatically," he said with a slight smile. "Now I want to check you over. According to Padawan Muln, you have been ill for the past few days."

I gently shook off his hand as I declared, "It was only temporary and as you can see I'm fine now. So if there's nothing else, I would like to check on my Master."

"All in good time, Knight Kenobi," he retorted with another smirk. "For now you will accompany me so I can check you over. I can make it an order if you would like."

I looked up at him in annoyance, torn between what was becoming a physical ache to see Qui-Gon and the fact that I could not disobey a direct order from a Master. Conceding that he had outmaneuvered me, I sent, Master Jufa insists on talking to me now, Qui-Gon, so I'll be a few minutes longer, as I reluctantly agreed. "Fine, just make it as quick as possible please, Master Jufa."

He let out an outright laugh as he opened the door to his office. "Like Master, like Padawan. Padawan Muln, thank you for escorting Knight Kenobi to Healer's Hall."

"Anytime, Master Jufa," Garen answered with a smile. "I need to submit my report on the ship, Obi-Wan, but I'll be in touch. I'll be expecting a full explanation of all this." He reached out a hand and took my duffle. "I'll drop this off in your quarters on my way."

"You have my promise," I said with a smile then added seriously, "Thanks for everything, Garen."

Garen nodded in acknowledgement then turned and headed back down the hallway. Master Jufa led me into his office and directed me into the chair in front of his desk. My confusion at my exam not being conducted in an exam room must have showed because he explained. "I have done some research since Qui-Gon suffered his relapse, Obi-Wan, and I think I have a good idea of what has been causing both of your problems. If you are agreeable, I would like to conduct a little experiment."

"An experiment?" I asked, still confused.

"Yes. Do you recall our conversation about the strength of your bond with Qui-Gon?" he asked and when I nodded, he continued. "I feel that Qui-Gon's relapse and the difficulties that you have experienced are related." His expression softened as he added, "This room is equipped with a Force shield. I would like to examine your bond, have you conduct a few exercises then engage it so that I can prove out my theory." He must have seen my continued puzzlement because he reassured me. "Just trust me, Obi-Wan, and I will make everything clear to you in a few minutes."

I opened myself more fully to the Force around us and could feel only his conviction that this was the correct path so I agreed. "Okay, do whatever you have to do but I will expect a full explanation after you have finished."

"I want you to close your eyes and center yourself," Master Jufa instructed. "Now lower your surface shields so that I can examine the bond you share with Qui-Gon." I pressed back my apprehension and sat quietly while he extended into my mind and examined the bond. I could feel his gentle probes, studying my connection to my Master with an intensity that would have been discomfiting if I hadn't trusted the man. Finally, he withdrew from my mind and continued with his instructions. "Concentrate on your bond with Qui-Gon and mute the connection as much as you can. After you have done that, I want you to attempt to build a shield between you. Tell me after you have blocked him out completely."

A part of me balked at this command, not wanting to give up the connection I had so recently recovered. I was also afraid of the effect this would have on Qui-Gon but I knew deep down that Master Jufa would never do anything that would hurt either of us so I did as I was asked. It took me a few minutes to achieve my calm center then I damped down on our bond. When the connection between us was lessened, I began to build a shield across our link. Using the methods I had been taught while still in the crhche, I erected a basic shield. When that did not cut off our link, I began again using the more advanced methods I had been taught in the last few years. I concentrated harder, used every trick on shielding I had ever been taught or even read about in a number of sequences but to no avail. Finally I opened my eyes, wondering again at my failure to complete such a simple task as I admitted defeat. "I cannot block our link completely. I can still sense his physical state and his emotions no matter what I try." He was smiling at my admission and that confused me even more.

"You have nothing to feel guilty about Obi-Wan," he insisted before giving me another set of instructions. "Now I'm going to engage the Force shield around the room. Reach for your center and brace yourself." He waited a few seconds than asked. "Ready?"

I did as I was asked then I nodded in agreement to his last question. The pain that surged through me as the shield engaged was as intense as when the ship had gone into hyperspace and I think I may have screamed. I fought to stay in control but I was immensely relieved when the shield disengaged after only about fifteen seconds.

Master Jufa was at my side, sending calming Force waves into me as he waited for me to regain my center. When I opened my eyes to look up at him, I could see his concern. "Sorry I had to put you through that, Obi-Wan, but it was the only way to be certain of my hypotheses. Now if you are feeling up to it, we can move this discussion into Qui-Gon's room and I will explain my findings to both of you."

After drawing in a few deep breaths, I rose shakily to my feet and said, "Okay, let's go." Together we left the office and headed into the main section of the infirmary. Luckily, Qui-Gon's room was only a short distance away and we arrived there in a couple of minutes.

I'm sure Qui-Gon must have sensed our approach because he was sitting up in bed and looking straight at the door when it slid open. My heart surged with love as our eyes met and only the presence of Mace Windu in the chair by Qui-Gon's bed kept me from running across the room and into his arms. I walked quickly over to the bed and dropped a gently kiss on Qui-Gon's lips before turning to greet his visitor. "Good morning, Master Windu."

He rose from his chair as he returned the greeting. "Good morning, Obi-Wan. Qui-Gon, I'm sure Master Jufa has much he wants to discuss with you and Obi-Wan so I'll take my leave. I will visit again soon."

I started to settle into the chair Mace had vacated as he headed to the door but Qui-Gon slid over and patted the spot beside him on the bed. "Please sit here, Obi-Wan. I find I do not want to be separated by even that distance after the past few days."

I tossed my cloak onto another chair, quickly toed off my boots and had settled into the spot beside him before the door closed behind Mace. I turned to face him, was drawn into a much deeper kiss than the one I had given him in greeting then settled to rest with my back against his chest. "I have missed you, my own," he whispered against my hair.

"Not as much as I have missed you, my Master," I replied before remembering that Master Jufa was waiting to talk to us. He was smirking when I looked over at him, seated in the chair by the bed. "Okay, Master Jufa, you said you had a theory about my difficulties and Qui-Gon's relapse. Please explain."

The arm wrapped around my shoulders tightened as Qui-Gon chided me gently. "All those years of diplomatic training..." his voice trailed off with a chuckle and I could feel his amusement.

"Hey, I said please," I replied lightly, the teasing banter helping to dissipate the memory of the past few days of pain and despondency. I kissed him again then faced Master Jufa and waited for his explanation.

"I'm sure you both remember my earlier questions about your bond," he began. "I know that you realize that your bond was always much deeper than the average master/padawan connection. Although I can't prove it, I expect that your bond deepened more after you became lovers and the events on Naboo strengthened it even more."

"Naboo?" I said, confusion and remembered terror filling me. A strong wave of love counteracted the terror and Qui-Gon's mental voice reassured. It's over. You saved me, Padawan.

"When Qui-Gon was injured, you used your bond to pour healing Force energy into him," Master Jufa explained. "In doing that, you enhanced and strengthened the connection between you to the beginnings of a lifebond. But because of his injury, all the energy coming into it came from you so the link broadened more in your mind than in his." He looked at me intently but sympathetically as he continued. "If my hypothesis is correct, this inequity has been affecting you. You have been suffering a variety of symptoms since Naboo, haven't you Obi-Wan?"

"Some minor ones -lack of appetite, trouble sleeping - nothing that serious," I admitted, relief flooding me as he words sunk in but before I could say anything else he spoke again.

"And during your mission to Ansion?" he asked.

"Headaches, nausea, trouble focusing and sleeping," I confessed reluctantly.

"All of those symptoms were caused by the imbalance in the bond," he explained. "It was as if your body was missing some integral component it needed to function properly. If I had realized the extent of the discomfort you were hiding or known that the Council planned to send you on a mission, I would have had done a number of things differently, including having you removed from the mission roster."

I sighed heavily at this disclosure and countered his comment. "In this case, my situation was instrumental to the success of my mission. But I have to admit that knowing that my pain had an actual cause and was not the result of a deficiency within me as I believed is a great relief."

"Oh, Obi-Wan..." Qui-Gon began, concern and guilt evident in his voice and over our bond.

"No guilt, I think I have had enough for both of us over these past few tens," I maintained, intertwining our fingers as I interrupted. "And I would suffer through it all again in an instant if it meant keeping you here with me."

"I don't know what I ever did to deserve you, but I thank the Force each day for your shining light in my life," he declared emotionally.

I could still feel the guilt flowing from him in waves so I tightened my grip on his fingers and redirected the conversation. "Master Jufa, I understand now why I was having difficulties but what caused Qui-Gon's relapse?"

"Because of the inequity in the bond, you have been unconsciously feeding energy to Qui-Gon since he was removed from the tank," he explained. "It's why he always felt better while you were visiting when he was in the infirmary and why he improved so rapidly after he returned home."

"Why didn't I sense that Obi-Wan was doing this?" my Master asked in obvious confusion. "Although our bond is very strong, his Force aura is very different than mine. His strength is in the Unifying Force while mine lies in the Living Force so once I had begun to recover I should have been able to sense these influxes of energy."

"Though I have no way to prove this unequivocally, I think the lifebond has caused a shift in his Force aura and after it is completed and balanced I expect that your connection to the Unifying Force will be enhanced as well," Master Jufa stated.

"And just how do we complete and balance the life bond?" I asked, my trepidation just noticeable in my voice. I could feel Qui-Gon's chuckle vibrating through my back as the Healer replied.

"In a much more pleasant way than you created it, Obi-Wan," Master Jufa said with a smile.

Qui-Gon kissed the spot behind my ear where my padawan braid use to begin then whispered, "In our bed, love, doing all sorts of very pleasant things." My body instantly responded to that husky voice and I could feel the blush spreading across my cheeks.

"Though I want to check you over just to be sure, I expect that Obi-Wan's return has done wonders for your physical state, Qui-Gon, so you should be able to go back to your quarters," he said as he rose from his seat. I slid off the bed to allow Master Jufa room and was tugging on my boots when I heard him say, "Maybe you should send Anakin to stay in the crhche for the next few days."

"No," I said firmly even though the question had not been addressed to me.

Master Jufa looked a bit taken back by my vigorous protest but Qui-Gon supported me even though I could see by his expression that he did not fully understand. "That won't be necessary. So I am cleared to leave?"

He glanced from Qui-Gon to me then back again before finally nodding. "Spend some time pampering yourselves. Healer's orders. It will take a ten or more for the bond to balance completely but it will equal out a bit more as each day passes. Contact me if you need anything or have any questions or concerns. I'll see you in my office to reevaluate the situation in three days." With another smile, he turned from the bed and headed out the door.

Without being asked, I went to the small closet to retrieve Qui-Gon's clothing and placed it on the bed. As he rose, he speared me with a steady look and I knew that he was looking for the reasoning behind my protest. "I know that you are Anakin's Master and I'm probably overstepping my boundaries but I think it would be detrimental to send him away for even a few days. I don't want him to ever see me as a rival for your attentions or question his place in your heart. I know how damaging that type of insecurity can be."

His expression softened as he said intently, "First of all, with this new dimension to our relationship, I expect that we will be sharing Anakin's training. Secondly, you have a very generous heart, Obi-Wan Kenobi. Even after everything you have suffered, you put the needs of a small, lonely boy above all else."

"He is a good boy, Master, and I have come to see the potential in him that you saw so readily," I said. "His background already puts him at a disadvantage. We must make sure that we don't inadvertently contribute to that."

Qui-Gon turned and kissed me gently, before sitting on the bed and pulling on his boots. I draped my cloak over my shoulders, did them same for him when he stood up and we headed from his infirmary room, moving purposefully but carefully in the direction of our quarters. We walked in silence, my mind contemplating everything we had discussed. By the time we reached the hallway leading to our quarters, I decided that all of that could wait till later and focused on the man at my side.

We arrived to find our quarters empty, save for my duffle on the couch with a datapad propped up on it. I had to smile when I flipped it on and read its message.

Kenobi -- I caught Anakin as he was leaving for his first class and made plans for him to meet me in the training salles for his morning session. So you have privacy until mid-meal. Make sure you put it to good use. -- Garen

I took Qui-Gon's cloak as I handed him the datapad with a smirk. "Looks like we have a few hours to ourselves, Master. Would you like a detailed report on my mission?"

He pulled me into his arms as I came towards him, pressing a hard kiss to my lips before stepping back. "That can wait until later. We are under Healer's orders to pamper ourselves, remember, and unless you have some objection, I plan on doing that pampering from a horizontal position."

I held out my hands, palms out in mock acquiescence as I nodded in the direction of our bedroom. "No objections here. I can think of any number of ways that we can pamper ourselves. Though they all involve you without any clothing," I added with a smirk as I locked the door with a flick of my hand.

"I'm sure that can be arranged," he said as he held out his hand to me. "Come, my Obi-Wan. I find I am anxious to feel you in my arms."

I didn't need to be asked twice. I took hold of his hand and pulled him with me into our bedroom. After toeing off my boots, I directed Qui-Gon to sit on the bed so that I could remove his. That done, I pulled the tie from his long tresses and began to unwind the sash wrapped around his waist. I tossed it aside then moved to his stola and tunics and soon had him naked to the waist. Kneeling beside the bed, I ran my hand gently over the still prominent scars on his chest, pulling back when he flinched. "I'm sorry. Maybe this isn't such a good idea."

Qui-Gon grabbed my tunics and pulled me back to him. "I am not a shard of ancient pottery, Obi-Wan, that will disintegrate under the slightest touch. I am alive and well on the road to recovery all because of you. And I need this, we need this, to reaffirm our love and commitment to each other not to mention to balance our bond." He covered my mouth with his in another passionate kiss and I couldn't prevent the soft moan of pleasure that the contact created.

"I don't want to cause you any more pain," I whispered as my lips were released and I leaned against his chest.

One large hand moved to the back of my neck and I shivered as the thumb began to move in slow circles over the nape of my neck. "Pain is the last thing I plan on either of us feeling in the next few hours. Now get naked," he ordered in a soft growl, "before I have to do it for you. And since I am a recovering invalid, I shouldn't have to exert myself to remove your clothing."

The teasing tone, the lust-filled gaze he raked over me as I pulled back and the love I felt pouring over our bond dissipated my remaining fears. After a quick kiss, I rose to my feet and twirled sensually in front of him. "No, you definitely need to save your strength for more important things." Exaggerating my movements a bit, I began stripping off my clothing. By the time I was down to my leggings, we were both sporting prominent erections although we had not even touched one another. I heard him gasp as I peeled my leggings and linens off and stalked towards him. Without saying a word, I pulled him to his feet and pushed his leggings down to his knees before pressing him back to sit on the bed. A flick of my wrist and the discarded leggings were flying across the room and I was gently shifting him onto his back.

I took a step back as he laid down, the exquisite sight before me almost taking my breath away. Silver streaked hair was spread over the pillow as the slightly thinner but still muscular long body covered the length of the bed. It had been more than two cycles since I had looked upon this bountiful treasure for anything other than clinical assistance and I gave myself a moment to drink in the sight of him. Nipples on the muscular chest peaking from the slight chill in the air, taut abdomen and corded thighs, smooth flanks, thick erection jutting out from its nest of dark curls - the body laid out in offering before me was like something out of a dream. I must have spent a little too long looking because he asked in a husky voice, "Are you just planning to look all day or are you going to do something?"

I moved forward again to kneel beside the bed, leaned in to run my tongue teasingly along the crown of his penis then looked back at him and said, "Oh, there are a number of things I plan on doing."

"Get up here," he rumbled huskily and I couldn't help but obey. He pulled me into his arms, kissed me deeply until we were both panting and breathless then pulled back with a soft sigh. "You are so beautiful, my Obi-Wan," he declared as he ran a callused palm over my hip. He covered my mouth with his again, sliding his tongue past my parted lips to explore my mouth with a hunger I had seldom felt from him. Finally he pulled back and admitted breathlessly, "Even though I had planned on us taking this slow, I find that I cannot wait to be inside you."

The desire and need threaded through that admission washed over me like a physical thing and I found myself echoing the powerful emotions. "Yes," I agreed hoarsely as I grabbed a tube of lubricant from the bedside table. I nudged him over a little on the bed, pressed the tube into his hand then turned so that I was on my hands and knees facing away from him, my ass a few inches from his head. "Prepare me, please," I growled, the need flowing between us surging with the strength of a tidal wave.

It was only a couple of seconds before I felt fingers coated in cool gel pressing gently against my anus. I couldn't help pressing back into that too long denied touch and moaned as one finger penetrated deeply into my body. "More," I ordered and he complied by pushing a second one into me. He stretched and coated me but not quickly enough for my tastes so when he pulled his fingers out to get more gel, I twisted back to face him. "Enough," I said as I grabbed the gel from him. I squeezed a generous dollop into my palm and spread it over his leaking penis.

Not wanting to tax his still recovering body, I pushed him onto his back and straddled his hips. I leaned forward and took a hard kiss then sat back, positioned his shaft at the opening of my body and sank slowly onto it. "Oh gods," I cried out as my out of practice body stretched a bit painfully to accommodate his substantial girth. But by the time he was sheathed fully within me, the pain had morphed into incredible pleasure and I sank myself fully into the rightness of the feeling.

"My stars, Obi...so good," I heard Qui-Gon moan and I was in complete agreement with the sentiment. I stayed still for a few moments just savoring the feeling of him filling me until he pleaded, "move, please."

So I began to move - lifting up until he almost slipped from my body then dropping slowly back down again. It was good, so good and I wanted to melt into the sensation and never let go. I felt Qui-Gon reach for me over the bond and I reached back eagerly. Love and desire flowed into me across the bond and I fed it back as enthusiastically as I did the sensations rushing through my body. I tried to keep the pace slow, to draw this lovemaking out as long as I could but our bodies and minds had other ideas.

Sensations flooded into me and I could no longer tell which were mine and which were his and when he wrapped his slick hand around my erection, I was lost. Filling or being filled, stroking or being stroked, it was one and the same and I thought I would explode from the sheer pleasure of it. Nothing had ever felt like this, not any of the times we had made love before and I struggled to hold onto my sanity. The pleasure seemed to build upon itself, higher and higher and higher until I could no longer contain it. Colors flashed behind my eyes as my orgasm burst from me and almost immediately I felt a matching surge coming from Qui-Gon. I grabbed fistfuls of bedding to keep myself from falling forward as the pleasure washed through me. My orgasm seemed to go on and on and I felt like my heart would stop with the intensity of it.

Far too soon it was over, the shudders in my body abating and the pounding of my heart slowing to a more normal rate. I could taste salt as I licked my lips and used my fingertips to wipe away the remnants of tears I didn't remember shedding. I looked down to see Qui-Gon sprawled on the bed like a casualty, looking much like I felt. I leaned in for a gentle kiss and when he opened his eyes, I said lightly, "Did you catch the number of the ion train that roared through here?" The smile that he favored me with could have melted the polar ice caps. "That was incredible."

"Yes it was," he agreed, his breathing still a bit ragged. "Though I don't expect we will be repeating it very soon." When I raised an eyebrow at him, he chuckled. "I am an old man, Obi-Wan, and I think I will need to rest for quite some time before we can have a repeat performance."

I lifted my hips, allowing his softening penis to slip from my body then moved to lie beside him. I covered his face with light kisses then buried my face in his shoulder. "I am more than willing to wait right here for as long as needed until you are rested and recovered," I declared softly.

I could feel him shift a bit, to look at the chrono no doubt because he said a bit reluctantly, "I don't think the two hours we have until Anakin gets back will be enough for that but I would be more than happy to just hold you in my arms until we need to get up." He kissed the top of my head and added, "Although I have done almost nothing but sleep for the past two days, I am aware that you got very little sleep while you were on Ansion." He wrapped his arms firmly around me. "Let me take care of you for a bit. Sleep, my Obi-Wan. I will be here when you wake."