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Retrogression

by obi-ki

Back to part one...

They kept their conversation light as they walked to the restaurant, not wanting to take any chance on being overhead with their proximity to the Parliament building. They were escorted into a private room when they arrived at Lontaign's and found Minister Shaadir and Qui-Gon already sipping from glasses of deep purple wine. They took their seats quickly, Obi-Wan settling into the chair beside his master and Moytak into the one beside his father.

"How are you feeling, Master?" Obi-Wan asked softly, after the waiter disappeared to put in their meal orders.

"As well as can be expected, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon replied. "The medical scans confirm what you and I suspected. I have regressed to approximately the age of thirty and, although the process has slowed drastically, my body is still being transformed by the jeunsenotiaum."

"Any progress on the research for a treatment?" Obi-Wan asked hopefully but Qui-Gon just shook his head.

"Father, as you suggested, I spoke to Feo and he'll see what he can find through his contacts," Moytak said.

"Good. Now what were you two able to find out?" Minister Shaadir asked.

"Quite a bit actually," Moytak answered his father. He looked around to make sure the door to their private dining room was securely closed then added, "It seems our original suspicions were correct."

"And you have proof of that?" Shaadir asked.

Scrolling through the information on his datapad, Obi-Wan found the section about the man who was currently confined in the detention center and handed the datapad to the Prime Minister. "It will take a bit more investigation but at least we have something connecting the participants. Maybe some individual dialogues with these people would be beneficial." Although they were relatively certain the room was private, there was no use taking any chances so Obi-Wan was intentionally vague.

Minister Shaadir took a moment to scan through the information on the datapad then handed it to Qui-Gon as he looked between Obi-Wan and Moytak. "Looks like a couple of promising leads. If we're lucky, maybe we can get to the bottom of all this, soon."

Conversation stopped as the waiter brought in bowls of soup and a basket of crusty rolls and placed them on the table. As they began their meal, conversation turned to more mundane matters. The Prime Minister told Qui-Gon a little about Mirith's husband's background and Obi-Wan allowed his hope to rise a bit after hearing about the healer's reputation. The waiter brought them each a serving of the restaurant's specialty dessert and a fresh pot of tea and they were just finishing it when the maitre d' came into the room and addressed Moytak.

"Your assistant would like you to contact the office at your earliest convenience, Ser Shaadir."

"Thank you," Moytak replied.

When the man had left the room and secured the door behind them, the Prime Minister turned to his son. "It's a bit unusual for Caelyn to interrupt your meal. Does this have something to do with your earlier research?"

"Possibly," Moytak replied.

Minister Shaadir rose from his seat and said, "Well, I have a cabinet meeting in less than a half hour so I should go. Qui-Gon, I can make my driver available to you for the afternoon if you would like."

"Yes, that would very helpful," Qui-Gon replied as he stood as well. "I can accompany Moytak and Obi-Wan back to Moytak's office to review their findings in a bit more detail and maybe pay another visit to the detention center."

After dropping Odan at the Parliament Building, it didn't take long for them to traverse the distance to the Minority Senate building and even less to get to Moytak's office. Caelyn followed the three men into the room and informed Moytak, "Jared would like you to contact him. He said it's very important."

"Thank you, Caelyn. I'll contact him directly," Moytak replied.

"I'll be at my desk if you need anything else," Caelyn said, seeming to easily recognizing the note of dismissal in Moytak's voice.

By the time the office door closed behind Caelyn, Moytak was already at the communications console entering in Jared's comm code. When he heard the expected, "Jared here," Moytak queried his friend without preamble. "What did you find, Jared?"

"The analysis of the elements inside the vial is still being completed but we did manage to pull an intact fingerprint from the outside of the vial," Jared explained. "But every attempt we've made to get a match from the database has come up against a security violation."

"Why don't you head over here with the information you've compiled so far and we can continue the search," Moytak said.

"I'll be there shortly," Jared agreed before ending the connection.

Looking between Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan, Moytak explained what Jared's find meant. "The security violation message means that the fingerprints are in the database but belong to someone who is shielded from searches initiated by someone with a lower security clearance."

"Such as Major Arvid," Obi-Wan said, without a trace of question in his voice.

With a few quick keystrokes, Moytak reactivated his computer terminal and opened up the files he and Obi-Wan had saved earlier. They spent a short time reviewing the data with Qui-Gon, going over the information for anything that might hold a lead. When he had skimmed everything either man had noted, Qui-Gon remarked, "I think I'll pay another visit to the detention center."

"And while you do that, I can go see the Oliani schoolteacher we came across in our morning research," Obi-Wan said as he pulled out his datapad and brought up the information about the woman in question. "Even if the fingerprints match, I think it'll take a lot more than that to prove our theory without a shadow of a doubt."

Moytak opened his desk drawer, grabbed an ignition stick and tossed it to Obi-Wan. "My speeder bike is in the garage at the townhouse. Have Father's driver drop you off there before he takes Master Qui-Gon to the detention center."

"Thanks," Obi-Wan replied, as he took a couple steps towards the door. "You have my comm code if you need me."

Qui-Gon nodded at Moytak and then headed out the door with Obi-Wan. "I wonder if Farl Corgan's cooperation will increase or decrease when he finds out we know about his lover and her connection to Xiandoran," Qui-Gon said after they stepped into the lift.

"Could go either way," Obi-Wan replied. "I am hoping that since Mer Jandi doesn't have a military background, she'll be more forthcoming in answering questions and revealing information."

"Especially if she has no forewarning of our interest," Qui-Gon agreed.

"And if she follows Ambrian tradition, she'll assume that I'm too young to be considered of any consequence," Obi-Wan added with a half smile.

The group of people waiting when the lift doors opened kept Qui-Gon from remarking on his padawan's observation, as did the number of people in the main lobby. They reached the transport quickly and settled into the seat as Obi-Wan directed the driver to Moytak's townhouse. They completed the short ride in silence, Obi-Wan only finding his voice as the vehicle pulled into the cul-de-sac. "Meet you back here later, Master?" Obi-Wan asked, aware that his underlying concern would not be masked by his casual tone.

Try not to worry so, Padawan, Qui-Gon gently scolded mentally even as he replied aloud, "Yes. If we complete our tasks early enough maybe we can find time for workout before late-meal."

"That would be most welcome," Obi-Wan replied politely. As he exited the vehicle, he took a moment to add a cheeky mental comment. Will I be allowed to pick the method and venue of our workout?

Brat came over the bond accompanied by a none too gentle Force swat across Obi-Wan's backside before Qui-Gon reached over and slid the door of the vehicle closed. Biting back his mental retort of 'it takes one to know one', Obi-Wan smiled at his Master and then headed in the direction of the building's doorman.

The trip to the detention facility took about ten minutes and Qui-Gon used the time to plan out the questions for his upcoming conversation with Farl Corgan. He would need to move slowly, reviewing the same questions he had asked in his earlier interview with the man before moving forward to his connection to Minister Xiandoran. Before exiting the vehicle, Qui-Gon used the Force to alter his appearance so that he looked as he had when he had arrived on Ambria. Too many questions would result if the extreme changes he had undergone were evident.

Entering the detention facility as if there was nothing unusual about his unscheduled appearance, Qui-Gon made his way to the superintendent's office and requested to see Farl Corgan. The look of surprise on the superintendent's face was quickly suppressed and within a few minutes he had arranged for the prisoner to be moved into a small interrogation room and called in a guard to direct Qui-Gon to the room. The superintendent's alarm had been easy to sense and Qui-Gon was not surprised to hear a comm code being entered the moment the office door slid closed behind him.

Dismissing the accompanying guard with an "I'll call you when I've finished my questioning" as they reached the interrogation room, Qui-Gon closed the door securely behind him and walked to the small table in the center of the room.

"Good afternoon, Ser Corgan," Qui-Gon said politely as he dropped into the room's only other chair. "I have a few more questions for you."

"Ask away, Master Jedi, but there's nothing else I can tell you," Farl replied curtly.

Qui-Gon spent about fifteen minutes reviewing the things they had already discussed, his repeated questions filling Farl Corgan with a combination of disinterest and annoyance. When he felt he had created enough apathy within the man, Qui-Gon moved on to the first of the questions today's additional information had spawned. "After seven years of a productive life in the private sector, it's surprising that there would be any reason for you to throw in with a band of terrorists." He stopped speaking for a moment, looking as if he was expecting a reply even though Qui-Gon knew that the mild wave of trepidation he felt from Farl would not be enough to force a comment.. Finally, with a knowing look, he continued, "I expect that it would take something or someone very powerful to persuade you to risk your freedom."

"You don't know anything about me, Jedi," Farl said disdainfully.

"I know a lot more than you think I do, Ser Corgan," Qui-Gon remarked. "My apprentice has spent quite a few hours delving into your background. Would you like to hear my theory on how you became embroiled in all this?" The level of fear within the other man spiked substantially but he still did not deem to reply so Qui-Gon continued. "Somehow during the war, you became involved with a young woman who is a distant relative of Defense Minister Xiandoran. When that young woman was investigated for consorting with the enemy, Xiandoran used his substantial influence to make those charges disappear and in the process indebted you to him."

Shock exploded over Farl Corgan's face and it was evident that only years of military discipline kept the man seated at the table. Wanting to increase the pressure while confusion still warred within the man, Qui-Gon kept going. "For some unknown reason, the Defense Minister is seeking to undermine the peace between Oliani and Cerenti and he decided to initiate the discord by recruiting you and a few others to commit these acts of sabotage."

Apparently still able to hang onto his composure even in the face of this revelation, Farl Corgan commented flatly. "An interesting theory, Jedi, though I expect you'd be hard-pressed to find any proof of your rather far-fetched speculation."

"It may take a little while but I'm certain that we'll be able to provide concrete proof to support our allegations," Qui-Gon replied calmly. "At some point, someone will be willing to share his or her knowledge. Maybe Aellyn Jandi will prove more forthcoming when my apprentice visits her this afternoon." Qui-Gon allowed a few moments for his words to fully penetrate and then rose from his chair. "If you should happen to recall any pertinent details, I'm certain the facility superintendent would be more than happy to relay a message that you would like to speak with me."

Fear sparked though Farl again before he admitted in a hushed tone, "I'd be dead by the time you got back here."

Qui-Gon had taken a few steps towards the door but turned around at the man's soft-spoken admission. "Your voluntary cooperation would go a long way in insuring your safety, Farl, and that of Mer Jandi." When no reply was forthcoming, he continued to the door and turned the handle.

"Wait," Farl called out before Qui-Gon could open the door.

Turning back with a look that was a combination of annoyance and interest, Qui-Gon walked slowly back to the table, took his seat and waited to see exactly how far Farl Corgan would be willing to cooperate.

It only took Obi-Wan a few minutes to get Moytak's speeder bike and map out a route to Aellyn Jandi's home. He memorized the most direct route then added in a number of random twists, turns and backtracks, creating what looked like the random path of a sightseer to deter anyone who might be following him. Glancing at the chrono, he thought his timing would be perfect, as he would be arriving about an hour after school got out for the day. As he was sure his Master had done, he planned out his conversation as he drove, hoping that Aellyn's inexperience would make her more forthcoming.

Obi-Wan arrived to see a woman walking through a small vegetable garden on the side of house, placing a few ripe items into the basket she was carrying. Pulling the ignition stick from the bike and placing it into the pocket of his robe, he approached slowly, allowing plenty of opportunity for the woman to see him coming.

The ploy worked because by the time Obi-Wan reached the edge of the fenced-in plot, the woman looked up at him to question, "May I help you?"

"Mer Jandi?" Obi-Wan asked and when she nodded he introduced himself. "I am Obi-Wan Kenobi and I would like to speak with you for a few moments if you are willing." He waited in silence as the woman studied him, looking him over with a mixture of contempt and apprehension that suddenly morphed into awe.

"You're a Jedi Knight," Aellyn blurted out.

"A Padawan actually, but yes I am Jedi," Obi-Wan replied. "My Master and I are on Ambria at Prime Minister Shaadir's request to investigate the recent terrorist attacks."

"I didn't have anything to do with that," Aellyn declared, her fear permeating the air around them.

"I'm not saying that you did," Obi-Wan assured gently. He cocked his head in the direction of the people in the adjoining yards. "Maybe we should go inside and discuss this in private."

Aellyn hesitated for a long moment and Obi-Wan thought she might refuse but she finally nodded and moved towards the house. He followed a few steps behind and settled into the chair she indicated when they reached the common room.

"This is about Farl isn't it?" Aellyn asked, though her tone of voice lacked any inkling of question.

Obi-Wan decided to use her question to get right to the point. "It appears that you and he have created a very nice life for yourselves. Why would he get involved in something like this?"

"He wouldn't tell me," Aellyn admitted. "He just said that he had to do this one job and after he did he would no longer be beholden to anyone."

"Did he say who he was working for or with?" Obi-Wan asked.

Aellyn vacillated again, as if she didn't dare to admit her suspicions, and then said softly. "He wouldn't say - said it would be safer for me if I didn't know. But if I had to guess, I'd say that my cousin Evet has to be involved somehow."

"The Defense Minister," Obi-Wan prodded, even though he knew that was of whom she was speaking of.

"Yes. When my relationship with Farl came under the scrutiny of the Oliani intelligence department during the war, I was accused of collusion. Evet used his influence to get the charges dropped," Aellyn explained. She took a deep breath, whether to calm or contemplate Obi-Wan could not be sure, before adding somewhat fearfully, "My cousin is a very ambitious and very ruthless man. Nothing he could do would surprise me."

That comment brought Obi-Wan up short and he began to worry about the short dialog they had shared in the yard. "Do you think you could be in danger if he finds out that you've spoken to me?"

"Possibly," Aellyn replied.

"Is there someplace you could go for a few days, a place Minister Xiandoran would have no knowledge of?" Obi-Wan asked.

"Yes, I have a friend from work I could stay with," Aellyn said. "She's been hounding me to come stay with her ever since Farl was arrested so she wouldn't question it if I showed up."

"That sounds like the best solution," Obi-Wan agreed. Picking up a writing instrument and two pieces of paper from the side table, he scribbled out his comm code and the code to Moytak's townhouse on one and handed the items to Aellyn. "Here are two numbers where you'll be able to reach me at any time. Write down the number where you'll be staying for me as well. If anything strange happens, contact me right away."

Aellyn accepted the sheets of paper, pocketed the one Obi-Wan had completed, filled out the second one and pressed it back into his hand with only the slightest hint of a tremble in her fingers. Obi-Wan took a few minutes to explain that he would discretely follow her to insure that she arrived at her friend's home safely and then said a quick goodbye before crossing the front yard to reach the speeder bike. He started the bike and drove to a semi-wooded area around the block, keeping his senses attuned to Aellyn as she packed an overnight bag and closed up her house.

Obi-Wan had to wait only about fifteen minutes before he saw her come out and jumped into a small two-person speeder and head off down the street. It was an easy task to follow her route from his position on the parallel road and he was relieved to see that his original tail had not reappeared nor was anyone else giving either of them more than a passing glance. He waited about a hundred meters away from the house Aellyn stopped at, making sure her friend was there and had accepted her story before heading off again. He had only made it a couple of kilometers when his commlink chirped and he pulled to a secluded spot on the side of the road to answer it. "Kenobi."

"Obi-Wan, can you meet us at Feo's office when you're done out there?" Moytak's voiced echoed through the speaker.

Realizing this was not the time or place to look for clarification on that vague query, Obi-Wan simply agreed. "I was just heading back. I should be there in about ten minutes."

"See you then," Moytak replied and then closed the connection.

Clipping his commlink back to his belt, Obi-Wan revved the bike and headed back towards the center of the city. Not needing to conceal his destination this time, he took a direct route and made it back to the Medical Research Center in even less time than anticipated. He parked the bike in the side lot, pocketed the ignition stick and headed into the building. When he reached the hallway leading to Feo's office, Moytak was waiting for him.

"What did you find?" Obi-Wan asked as soon as he reached his friend.

"We may have found the source of the jeunsenotiaum," Moytak explained in hushed tones as they moved into Moytak's office. "A couple hours ago Feo called his friend, Healer Kith Ahazi, who is the Administrator of the Solina Geriatric Facility looking for anything that might help Master Qui-Gon."

"Did he have any suggestions?" Obi-Wan interrupted, the second comment suddenly commanding all his attention.

"Nothing treatment wise. However, something very interesting came up during their conversation," Moytak continued. "It seems that a vial containing two ten-days' supply of jeunsenotiaum came up missing in a routine drug inventory this morning. Originally Ahazi thought it had just been misplaced since it's not a drug in demand on the black market but after talking to Feo he did some checking. He called back right before I commed you. It seems that Sani Amil is currently working in the facility's pharmacy."

"So what are we doing here? Let's go over there and talk to her," Obi-Wan insisted, taking a couple steps back towards the door.

"Wait," Moytak called out, stopping Obi-Wan in his tracks. "We don't need to go anywhere. Sani Amil is currently on duty in the pharmacy so, after they make her aware that a vial of the drug has come up missing, Healer Ahazi is going to send her over here to deliver some supposedly important research papers to Feo." A wry smile appeared on Moytak's lips as he added, "You and I are going to be waiting for her when she arrives so we can all have a little chat."

"Definitely," Obi-Wan replied as he moved to look out the window. "Do you know if Qui-Gon is still at the detention center?"

"He left there a while ago and after a brief stop at the Medical Center, he had Father's driver take him back to my townhouse," Moytak informed him.

The fact that Qui-Gon had gone back to the Medical Center without prodding terrified him but, remembering his promise, Obi-Wan fought the desire to comm his master. After taking a couple of calming breaths, he grabbed Moytak's datapad from the desk and began to mentally prepare his series of questions.

They had only been waiting about ten minutes when they heard a timid knock on the door. With a quick glance to Obi-Wan, Moytak walked over and opened it. "Yes?"

"Are you Healer Yagil?" the woman in medical tunics asked politely.

"No, but he should be back momentarily," Moytak replied as he directed the woman into the room.

Sani Amil entered the room warily, stopping after only a few steps when she caught sight of Obi-Wan standing by the window. "Maybe I could just leave these papers with you?" she muttered, her face paling at the sight of a Jedi.

"I'm certain that your instructions were to deliver them personally to Healer Yagil," Moytak said firmly. "Have a seat. I'm sure he'll be back in a few minutes."

Obi-Wan watched the woman intently as she moved hesitantly over to the couch and sat down. Sani refused to meet his gaze, studying the envelope in her hands as if it contained the secrets to the galaxy. He continued to watch her, aware that his scrutiny was only adding to her nervousness. Finally when he thought it had gone on long enough, he asked, "So Mer Amil, have you had any contact with Tonak Lani recently?"

It looked like Sani Amil would have fallen down if she hadn't already been sitting. "Excuse me?" she finally blurted out.

"I'm curious to know if you've seen your old war-time friend in the past few days?" Obi-Wan repeated, suddenly sure he was on the right track.

"How do you know about Tonak?" Sani asked.

Deciding he was tired of skirting the issue, Obi-Wan answered in just enough detail. "We know that you were involved with him during the war and that someone kept your relationship from being investigated at that time. We also know that he was involved in the recent terrorist activity." His expression darkened even more as he asked, "How did he convince you to become involved in this terrorism?"

"What are you talking about?" Sani cried out. "I haven't done anything. He came to the hospital to see me a few days ago but he never asked me for anything. He just talked to me for a few minutes, asked me how I'd been and then left when I got paged to bring medication up for a new patient."

"He visited with you in the pharmacy?" Moytak asked.

"He was only just inside the door," Sani replied, her face getting paler by the minute.

Obi-Wan moved away from the window to within a couple of steps of the couch and asked rather harshly, "And during his visit you watched him every moment to ensure that none of the drugs you are responsible for could have been taken?"

"There were no narcotics in the drug order I was putting away when Tonak was there and he never went into the main storage area," Sani answered defensively.

"What type of drugs were you putting away?" Obi-Wan queried.

"Just some assorted maintenance medications for the elderly patients we treat," Sani responded.

After a quick glance at Obi-Wan, Moytak picked up the questioning. "Would one of those drugs have been jeunsenotiaum?"

Sani's expression changed almost instantly, as if the missing piece of a puzzle had suddenly been put into place. "Why would he have taken that?" she finally muttered. "It has no street value and Tonak never did anything unless he could profit by it."

"And if he could have profited by it?" Moytak prodded. "Would Tonak Lani have been above using his history with you to give him access to an easy source of the drug?"

The way Sani sank back into her chair answered the question without words. Finally she muttered, "I should have known that he wouldn't have shown up just to see how I was doing."

Obi-Wan gave her a few moments to collect herself and then took over the questioning. "So if we are to believe what you've just told us, you haven't had any contact with your old friend in the years since the war ended and had no idea that Tonak Lani was involved with this terrorist activity." He allowed his expression to darken a bit. "And that it never crossed your mind that Tonak could be involved when you were informed that the jeunsenotiaum was missing." He tossed a glance at Moytak and added haughtily, "With your history, that seems a little far fetched."

Even though her voice quaked with fear, Sani defended herself. "I got involved with Tonak Lani when I was young and naïve. If it weren't for the fact that my brother's best friend was dating some Captain in the intelligence office, I would have been charged with complicity with the enemy in wartime. When I was told they weren't going to press charges, I broke it off with Tonak and hadn't seen him since until three days ago."

Trading another look with Moytak, Obi-Wan filed that comment away and went back to his questions. "So you have no idea who Tonak was working for?"

"No, I don't. He never said what he was doing in Aka'lat now that I think about it," Sani explained. A moment later something seemed to click for her and she asked, "What do you mean who he was working for?"

"He was one of the parties involved in an attack against my master and myself two nights ago and was killed by Oliani security during the scuffle," Obi-Wan explained.

Eyes widening in shock at the revelation, Sani said nothing. Throughout the conversation, Obi-Wan had been focusing on the flow of the Force around the woman and it verified that Sani was telling them the truth as far as she knew it. Wanting to ensure that anything she might remember would be readily revealed, Obi-Wan handed her a small card with contact information he had written out earlier and noted in warning, "Your cooperation will be duly noted as we continue our investigation, Mer Amil. You are free to leave but be sure to contact Ser Shaadir's office if you recall anything further."

"I will, Ser Jedi," Sani replied fervently. As she rose from her seat, she suddenly seemed to remember the envelope she still held in her hands. "Can I leave these papers for Healer Yagil?"

"I'll make certain that he gets them," Moytak said as he held out his hand. The woman did not seem to find anything strange in Moytak's sudden reversal and Sani just handed him the envelope and headed out the door.

When the door closed, Moytak turned to Obi-Wan. "This added to the other things we've learned today should give my father enough to initiate a tribunal. All we need to do is get all the information together and decide the best way to proceed." He stopped for a moment as if contemplating his options and suddenly seemed to come to a decision. "I'll call my mother and ask her to plan a casual dinner for tonight. That'll give us the opportunity to get everyone who's been working on this investigation together without anyone becoming suspicious. It'll just look like dinner for family and friends."

"And we wouldn't have to worry about security at your parents' house," Obi-Wan agreed. "Are you sure your mother won't mind?"

"Are you kidding?" Moytak laughed. "My mother will love to have the chance to plan a cozy family type meal, even if we'll spend some of the evening discussing political things. And I'm even going to be giving her three hours notice."

"Okay, it's your neck," Obi-Wan taunted in return. "Anything else we need to do right now?"

Moytak's smile widened as he answered, "Not unless you want to help me sweet talk my mother."

"I'll pass on that one, thanks," Obi-Wan replied. "I think I'll head back to the townhouse until it's time for dinner."

"Okay, plan on coming over to the house around 1930," Moytak said. "Use the bike if you want or comm me and I'll send Father's driver."

"Thanks, I'll see you later," Obi-Wan replied, relieved that for now duty was fulfilled and he could go and check on Qui-Gon.

When he returned to the townhouse after his quick stop at the Medical Center, Qui-Gon checked in with the ship and then settled into a healing trance for an hour. As much as he tried to reassure everyone that he was fine, the afternoon's events had shaken him more than he cared to admit. By the time he had settled into the transport, his heart was pounding and he was breathing as if he had been running for days. He prided himself on being in excellent shape and always relied on his body and the Force to carry him through any situation so this rare failure left him struggling to regain his normal serenity. Keeping up the Force disguise while he was interrogating Farl Corgan had strained his already overtaxed system and he doubted that he would be able to accomplish that task again. He could only hope that Obi-Wan and Moytak had been able to come up with enough evidence that, combined with what he had learned today, would allow the Prime Minister to confront the main culprits behind the terrorist activities soon.

Heading into the refresher to relieve himself, Qui-Gon caught sight of his reflection in the mirror and saw the first-hand evidence that he had regressed even further. He studied his younger features intently, alarmed at how remarkable the change was. Not a hint of gray remained in his hair or beard and his skin was once again smooth and unlined. If not for the length of his hair and the bump from his twice broken nose, the man staring back at him would be identical to the newly knighted Qui-Gon Jinn of thirty years before. He looked no older than twenty-five and strongly suspected that the strain of creating the Force disguise had sped up the regression.

After staring at his reflection for a moment more, Qui-Gon left the refresher and headed into the kitchen. Using the time to regain his floundering serenity, he brewed a pot of tea before moving to the comm terminal with his mug. He entered the comm code for the Temple and only had to wait a couple of minutes for his holonet transmission to be transferred to Master Jufa.

"How are you, Qui-Gon?" Meneit Jufa asked, his eyes obviously studying the image that appeared before him.

"People dream of reliving their youth with the knowledge of their experiences intact but I'm finding it's not quite what it's cracked up to be," Qui-Gon quipped in a feeble attempt at humor.

"I received the results of your latest round of scans," Jufa replied, ignoring the weak joke. "It appears that by nightfall, you'll be younger than your apprentice."

"I had to use the Force to alter my appearance for an interrogation this afternoon and I think that accelerated the age reversal," Qui-Gon admitted. He had planned on downplaying this newest occurrence but decided that he should at least be forthcoming with Meneit. "My heart rate was extremely elevated when I left the detention center and I'm certain that on at least two occasions the beat became erratic. By the time I arrived at the Medical Center it had stabilized but Healer Sarvai confirmed that I had suffered some minor damage to a small section of the heart muscle."

"I'm very concerned on the effect this is having on your heart and circulatory system," Jufa said, his brow creasing into a furrow. "How much longer do you think you'll need to complete your mission?"

"If things continue to fall into place, we may be able to wrap things up in the next day or two," Qui-Gon answered. "We are relatively certain we know who's behind this. We just need the proof to confront them." Before he could say anything else, the door to the suite opened and Obi-Wan entered. Qui-Gon smiled in greeting then returned his attention to the hologram of the Meneit Jufa. "Hopefully that confrontation can take place tomorrow."

"That would be best," Jufa agreed. He looked away for a moment and when he looked back he was smiling. "The Council has given me authorization to travel to Ambria to assist you. I have arranged transport on a courier ship that leaves within the hour and will be in Aka'lat in approximately thirty hours." His expression became more serious and he added, "Do not overtax yourself, Qui-Gon. I'd suggest that if the need to camouflage your appearance arises again during that confrontation, you allow Obi-Wan to fulfill that duty," Jufa instructed.

"I'll be cautious, Meneit," Qui-Gon acceded. "We'll see you when you arrive."

"Until then, Qui-Gon," the Healer replied as he ended the connection.

Looking up, Qui-Gon could see the combination of concern and confusion on Obi-Wan's face and reassured, "I'm okay, Padawan. Let me refill my mug and we can compare notes on what transpired this afternoon."

Obi-Wan studied Qui-Gon intently while he poured tea for both of them and they moved to sit on the sofa. "The reversal has sped up again," Obi-Wan said, as he brushed his thumb over the much firmer skin under Qui-Gon's eye.

Placing his mug on the table, Qui-Gon picked up the satin bag Obi-Wan had left there earlier and tipped the tiketis into his palm as he began his explanation. "It appears that the age reversal is accelerated by heavy Force use. I used the Force to alter my appearance when I interrogated Farl Corgan earlier and it seems to have increased the affects of the jeunsenotiaum."

"Hence Master Jufa's warning that you let me handle it if the need arises again," Obi-Wan commented. "But why did you bother with that anyway?"

"I thought it would be prudent to be cautious since I had visited the detention center before and we don't know who is on Minister Xiandoran's payroll," Qui-Gon explained. "And I never imagined that it would have any affect at all. I have been drawing on the Force unconsciously since the incident, just not for such sustained periods I guess."

"Is that why you stopped at the Medical Center before you came back here?" Obi-Wan asked.

"Yes, when I left the detention center my heart was racing and I felt drained, as if I'd been sparring for hours," Qui-Gon admitted. "I recovered on the trip back but I wanted to make sure that this wasn't a major setback. Healer Sarvai's scan showed that the accelerated heart rate did a tiny bit of damage but has stabilized again." Concern was evident in Obi-Wan's face and he took hold of one hand and assured softly, "I'm trying to be cautious, love. I spent an hour in a healing trance before I contacted Master Jufa."

"I'm glad he's coming here, Master," Obi-Wan confessed. "I'll feel better with a Temple trained healer overseeing your treatment."

"I am too," Qui-Gon agreed. "Now let's review what we learned today so we can decide how to proceed."

They put aside the discussion of Qui-Gon's health and spent the next hour with each of them relating the facts they had uncovered that afternoon. Qui-Gon replayed his conversation with Farl Corgan and Obi-Wan made detailed notes in his datapad. Obi-Wan recounted every detail of his conversations with both Aellyn Jandi and Sani Amil, putting the information into a more concise form as he did. Reviewing the information he and Moytak had accumulated earlier, they spent time collating the facts and documenting which details they felt could be used as evidence and which would be considered hearsay.

Boots disappeared and tea mugs were refilled a number of times during their session and Qui-Gon fiddled with the blue stone Obi-Wan had given him almost the entire time. When they finally finished, Obi-Wan propped his feet up on the table in front of him and stretched while he scrolled through his datapad. "Between this and what Moytak and his friends have put together, I hope Minister Shaadir will decide tonight that we've uncovered enough for him to convene a tribunal."

"Tonight?" Qui-Gon asked in confusion.

A sheepish grin appeared on Obi-Wan's face as he said, "Sorry. I guess I forgot to tell you that we're expected for dinner at Minister Shaadir's at 1930. Moytak thought a casual dinner for friends and family would give us the perfect guise to review and compile our information."

Qui-Gon exhaled a heavy sigh even as he said reluctantly. "Well, that is a good idea but I was honestly looking forward to a quiet night to rest and recoup." He twirled the tiketis between his fingers and said, "Though I must admit that I'm feeling much better." He leaned over and kissed the tip of Obi-Wan's nose as he added, "Must be the company."

Obi-Wan placed a hand on the back of Qui-Gon's neck and drew him forward for a gentle kiss. When he pulled back, he insisted, "And after another hour in a padawan augmented healing trance, you'll be feeling that much better."

Obi-Wan's hands moved to his belt and Qui-Gon raised an eyebrow. "Do I need to be naked for this healing trance?"

"Naked would be good but it isn't really necessary," Obi-Wan said with a smirk. "I thought you'd be more comfortable if you took off your belt, sash and outer tunics."

"But can I trust you not to take advantage of me if you get me half naked?" Qui-Gon teased, wondering if maybe sex might reenergize him as effectively as the healing trance.

Trying to look affronted but failing miserably, Obi-Wan countered, "I do have a modicum of self control, Master."

After allowing Obi-Wan to strip off his belt, sash and tunics, Qui-Gon pushed him back to sit on the left side of the couch and then stretched out over the couch with his head in Obi-Wan's lap. "Maybe we should make a compromise. I'll spend a half hour in the healing trance and you can spend the other half hour tossing away that modicum of self control."

"I'd expect that someone of your age and experience would have more restraint," Obi-Wan chided in mock dismay.

Deciding that they could both benefit from some lighthearted banter, Qui-Gon retorted with a sneer, "I'm twenty-four, remember? I have an excuse to think with my cock."

"You're incorrigible, Master," Obi-Wan chuckled, as he ran his fingers through the length of dark brown hair.

"But you love me anyway," Qui-Gon quipped as he began to relax under the pleasure of those talented hands.

"Yes, I do. In spite of your sometimes idiotic, overbearing and rash behavior," Obi-Wan retorted. "Now be a good Jedi, close your eyes and settle into your healing trance."

"Yes, Master," Qui-Gon replied, sending a wave of love over the bond to Obi-Wan. Twining his Force sense to Obi-Wan's, he tightened his hold on the blue stone he still held and did as he was asked, allowing Obi-Wan to augment him as he relaxed into the healing comfort of the Force.

While Qui-Gon was in the healing trance, Obi-Wan catalogued his Master's physical condition. He studied the beloved face in his lap, looking over every inch with the scrutiny he would use while inspecting a saber crystal for flaws. After finishing the face, he moved on, inspecting every part of Qui-Gon he could see from this position. When the visual inspection was complete, he moved on to a more comprehensive one, using the Force to evaluate the condition of Qui-Gon's body. Although not a healer, all Jedi devoted extensive study to their bodies and to basic biology and he used this knowledge to check the state of Qui-Gon's major systems. It wasn't as easy as it would have been on his own body, but Obi-Wan had been bonded to Qui-Gon long enough that he had a good idea of the man's natural state.

All of Qui-Gon's major systems seemed to be functioning properly but when Obi-Wan focused on his Master's heart, he could perceive the slight weakness in the muscle that Qui-Gon had alluded to earlier. As time passed, he could sense Qui-Gon drawing strength from the assisted trance, so when the half-hour was up, Obi-Wan pushed back a tendril of regret and allowed it to continue. With all his energy diverted into the trance itself, Qui-Gon was relying on Obi-Wan to monitor the duration of the trance so he would be unaware of the passage of time. He may have to deal with Qui-Gon's wrath afterwards but that was a price Obi-Wan was willing to pay to bolster his master's health.

Obi-Wan continued to feed energy to Qui-Gon and he was pleased that even the minute fluctuations in his Master's systems seemed to be decreasing. He maintained the link for as long as he dared but after an hour and fifteen minutes had passed Obi-Wan slowly began withdrawing from their link. By the time their connection was back to its normal level, Qui-Gon started to surface from the trance and his respiration rate began to increase. In less than two minutes, his eyelids fluttered and his eyes opened.

"Feeling any better, Master?" Obi-Wan asked as soon as their gazes locked.

Qui-Gon's expression became pensive for a long moment and Obi-Wan could see that he was using the time to do a scan of his systems. When he finished, he smiled weakly. "Surprisingly better, Padawan." After a glance at the chrono, the smile faded completely. "Though I expect that's partially due to the length of time I spent in the healing trance."

"It was obviously helping so using the time we had available to continue the trance seemed like the prudent course of action," Obi-Wan stated calmly.

Qui-Gon looked like he was going to dispute the point but finally just shrugged and levered himself into a seated position. "Well, it looks like we'll have to forgo any more enjoyable activities if we're going to make it to Minister Shaadir's for 1930." He reached over and picked up the satin pouch he had left on the table earlier, returning the tiketis to it for safekeeping. He then got to his feet, grabbing the tunics and sash Obi-Wan had stripped from him earlier and began redressing.

Obi-Wan took the hint, pulling on his boots and straightening his clothing before heading into the refresher. He returned a few moments later, holding Qui-Gon's hairbrush. When Qui-Gon sat down to pull on his boots, Obi-Wan used the opportunity to brush his master's hair and resecured the front section with the worn leather tie. There was a note of eagerness in his voice as he laid the brush on the table and asked, "Are we using the bike or should I comm Moytak?"

Knowing how much Obi-Wan would enjoy driving the bike, Qui-Gon replied without a second thought, "The bike." He arched an eyebrow and smiled as he added, "Just remember that this is a leisurely drive and you can drive a bit slower than last time I rode behind you on a speeder bike."

"And here I thought this rejuvenation would extend to a young man's love of speed," Obi-Wan retorted with a smirk.

"Snaking between buildings doing one hundred and fifty kilometers an hour is more like suicide than a love of speed," Qui-Gon quipped in reply. "Someday when you have a padawan of your own, you'll experience the joy of stark terror while he steers a vehicle through the air with reckless abandon."

"I'll just make sure I always drive," Obi-Wan laughed. He grabbed their cloaks off the hook by the door, tossed Qui-Gon his and then draped his over his shoulders. "Come on, Master. I promise to keep it under a hundred unless someone starts shooting at us."

Putting on his cloak, Qui-Gon answered drolly, "That's reassuring," before following his apprentice out the door.

It took them only a few minutes to grab the speeder bike from the garage and get started to Minister Shaadir's home. True to his word Obi-Wan kept the speed of the bike to a reasonable level and it was a very enjoyable ride. The sky was in that state of near dusk with the tiniest hint of orange and purple along the length of the horizon. The evening air was still temperate enough that their cloaks kept them warm during the ride.

A footman stood at the open gate to the driveway as he had on their previous visit and the fact that he closed the gate as soon as Obi-Wan drove the bike through it told them that the other dinner guests had already arrived. Obi-Wan had barely pulled the ignition stick from the speeder when Kairylyn came bounding down the front steps. She slowed her pace as she got closer and was a model of decorum by the time she reached the two Jedi. "Good evening, Master Qui-Gon. Good evening, Obi-Wan," she greeted with a formal bow.

Obi-Wan gave her a slight bow and then pulled her into a hug. "Not too grown up for a hug I hope, Kai?"

"I'll always have a hug for you, Obi," Kairylyn replied.

Qui-Gon opened his arms to the young woman. "For me too, I hope."

"Definitely, Master Qui-Gon," Kairylyn replied as she walked into his embrace. When she stepped back, she added, "Everyone else is waiting inside." Her smile brightened as she admitted, "I cajoled Father into letting me come out to greet you but I had to promise to bring you right in."

Qui-Gon pointed towards the marble stairs and smiled. "Wouldn't want to have you break your promises. Please lead the way, Mes Kairylyn."

Kairylyn led the two Jedi into the house and directly to the sitting room. Moytak stood up, walking over to meet them in the middle of the room. "Master Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, welcome." He motioned to the three younger men sitting on the oversized sofa. "These are my friends, Jared, Muji and Denit, who have been helping with the investigation." The men exchanged handshakes and nods and then Moytak moved over to a smaller sofa on the other side of the room.

The couple seated there rose as he approached and the woman quickly buried her look of shock and smiled warmly at the approaching Jedi. "It is wonderful to see both you again," Mirith said as she hugged both men. When she stepped back, she motioned to the man standing beside her. "Master Qui-Gon, this is my husband Feo Yagil." After the two men shook hands, she tried to coax a cowering young boy out from behind Feo but when he refused she just pointed and smiled. "This shy young man is our son, Sarn." The boy burrowed himself even closer to his father as both Jedi smiled and greeted him. Nodding in the direction of the chair where Vatiana was seated, she added, "And the beautiful cherub Mother is holding is our daughter, Jenica."

After the introductions were completed, Minister Shaadir pressed a wine glass into each Jedi's hand and directed them to the two empty chairs. Qui-Gon answered Odan's questions about his health and they spent a few minutes making small talk before Vatiana rose from her seat, handed the baby to Mirith and said, "Let's move into the dining room. Late-meal should be just about ready."

The group moved into the dining room and settled into their places at the table. As this was an informal affair, Vatiana had dismissed her servants for the day after the food was prepared and recruited her daughters to help her serve it. A refreshing change from the elaborate state dinners Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were forced to sit through so often, the simple food and pleasant company allowed them to truly enjoy their meal. The conversation remained on neutral subjects as they moved from one course into the next. The Jedi used the time to continue to catch up with their friends' lives and to begin to get to know the three young men Moytak had so easily taken into his confidence.

By the time dessert dishes were being pushed back, the children were starting to fuss and Vatiana motioned to her husband. "Why don't you men retire to your study for a nightcap and the conversation you have been putting off all night. You have until we get the children settled down for the night and these dishes cleaned up to discuss your politics. By the time we join you, I expect you to be ready to move back to more pleasant topics."

"Yes, dear," Odan replied with a fond smile. Standing up, he called out to the others, "Come along gentlemen. We have much to discuss."

The others followed the Prime Minister from the dining room to his study, stopping only long enough to grab something from the well stocked bar before settling into seats. Obi-Wan pulled the datapad from his belt pouch, placed it on the low table and sat down on the floor beside Qui-Gon's chair. Moytak knelt on the floor across the table from him and placed two datapads and a small pile of papers beside Obi-Wan's datapads.

"Were you able to discover anything new after I left, Moytak?" Obi-Wan asked.

Moytak glanced over at one of his friends before replying with a slight smile. "Nothing concrete but Denit talked to his brother who's currently serving in the Oliani military police. His brother says that there are numerous rumors floating around that Major Arvid was seen a few weeks ago with someone who looked suspiciously like our dead terrorist, Tonak Lani."

"I'd love to have proof of that," Obi-Wan replied. "It would be one more nail in the proverbial coffin." He picked up his datapad, scrolling until he found the report he had compiled that afternoon and handed the datapad to the Prime Minister. "Here's all the information my Master and I have gathered including the recaps from our interviews this afternoon."

Odan took the time to scan through the information on the datapad, the concise format making it easy for him to pick out the key points. After a few minutes he looked over to where Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were sitting and smiled.. "I've already read through the material Moytak and his friends put together. That added to what you have provided here will give me more than enough evidence to convene a tribunal." He made eye contact with each person in the room and then declared fervently. "You've done an outstanding job of investigating these events and compiling this virtually irrefutable evidence. You all have my utmost gratitude, both personally and as prime minister." His expression grew much more serious as he met Qui-Gon's gaze and added, "I am only sorry that by coming to our assistance you became a target, my friend."

"A hazard of the profession, Odan," Qui-Gon insisted. He spared a moment to look down at Obi-Wan and then assured, "I have faith that the Force will provide a solution to this situation."

"With a little help from every resource we can throw the Force's way," Obi-Wan whispered.

Ignoring his apprentice's comment, Qui-Gon changed the subject. "When do you plan on convening the tribunal, Odan?"

"I would like to schedule it for tomorrow, late morning," Odan replied, "under the guise of an emergency cabinet meeting to deal with the terrorist activity. With recent events, that should allow enough time for me to assemble everyone essential to moving on this without giving any indication to Minister Xiandoran that we suspect anything." He looked intently at Qui-Gon and added, "My only concern is?" Odan stopped in mid-sentence, as if unsure of how to voice his concern.

Well versed in the cultural nuances of this age-segregated society, Qui-Gon easily determined just what was causing the Prime Minister's anxiety and completed his friend's sentence. "You're worried about the effect my altered appearance will have on my credibility. You're concerned that the tribunal members will discount my testimony if I appear to be of minority age." He glanced over at Obi-Wan and said, "That will not be an issue."

Obi-Wan immediately understood what Qui-Gon wanted and within seconds he was focusing the Force around his master. Almost instantaneously, the rejuvenated Qui-Gon vanished and his visage shifted to that of the fifty plus year old Jedi Master who had arrived on Ambria days earlier.

"How?" Odan's and Moytak asked in unison.

Obi-Wan continued to concentrate, holding the image while Qui-Gon replied. "Obi-Wan is using the Force to create an illusion of my normal appearance and is superimposing it over my face."

"How long could you keep the illusion?" Moytak asked Obi-Wan.

"I could maintain it for hours as long as I can give it a substantial portion of my concentration," Obi-Wan answered, even as he sustained the illusion.

Relief and unease combined in Odan's expression as he addressed the elder Jedi. "Can you create this same illusion for yourself while you are testifying, Qui-Gon?"

"Normally, I would be able to but as I found out earlier today, any intense use of the Force intensifies the affects of the jeunsenotiaum," Qui-Gon explained. "While I was interrogating Farl Corgan this afternoon, I created a Force illusion so he wouldn't notice the changes to my appearance. When I left the detention center, I was feeling extremely weak so I went over to the medical center. While I was waiting for Healer Sarvai's scans, I came to the realization that my heavy Force use had increased the rate of the age reversal." Qui-Gon again met Obi-Wan's gaze before adding, "Master Jufa feels that prolonged Force use, such as I would need to maintain the illusion throughout the tribunal, could possibly do major damage to my circulatory system."

"Then we'll just have to find a way for Obi-Wan to be in that room," Moytak said firmly as he looked at the two Jedi. He appeared to be deep in thought for a long moment before turning and addressing one of his friends. "Muki, you're studying to be a barrister. Are there any precedents that would support someone who has not achieved the age of majority being allowed into tribunal proceedings?"

"Only if the person is a crucial witness," Muki replied. "We might be able to make a case for that since Obi-Wan is the person who interviewed both Sani Amil and Aellyn Jandi."

Obi-Wan looked around the room in concern at that thought and interjected, "I fear for the women's safety if we go public with our sources. Is there any way to list me as a witness for the information I obtained from them without publicly disclosing their names, at least during the tribunal stage?"

"It's possible," Muji answered slowly, his vague expression indicating that he was pondering the question. "The evidence we have collected would need to be presented to a Senior Magistrate and he would have to issue an edict both allowing Obi-Wan to be present in a majority segregated area for the duration of the tribunal and accepting his testimony in lieu of the actual witnesses."

"What would it take to have the edict granted?" Moytak asked his friend.

"A strong case would have to be made for the safety of Mers Amil and Jandi to justify Obi-Wan's appearance in their stead," Muji said.

At this comment, Qui-Gon spoke up for the first time in this portion of the discussion. "I expect that would not be too difficult. Especially in light of the fact that we believe that Major Arvid killed Tonak Lani to keep him from being interrogated after the attack against Obi-Wan and I." He turned to Odan and asked, "Is there anyone in the Justice Department that you trust implicitly? Someone you could present the petition to without any fear that the information would make its way into Minister Xiandoran's hands?"

"Ren," Odan said at the same time that Moytak said, "Magistrate Bdu."

Obi-Wan looked up at Qui-Gon and smiled. "I guess we can take that as a yes."

The Prime Minister walked over to his desk, pulled a datapad out of a drawer and dropped it on the table where Obi-Wan and Moytak were seated. "Download all the information for me. I'll stop by to see Ren on my way into the office and get the edict we need. No one will question it because we've been friends for years and stop by on each other unannounced quite frequently." He stopped for a moment, his brow furrowed in thought, and then remarked, "I'll also ask for his recommendation for a magistrate to oversee the tribunal. I'd prefer that it be someone that has no connection to me so that no one can allege bias."

"I think that would be prudent," Qui-Gon agreed. "So what else do we need to do to prepare for tomorrow?"

Moytak studied Qui-Gon intently for a moment and then looked over at his father. "If Obi-Wan uses the Force to mask the changes Master Qui-Gon has undergone because of the attack against him, we won't be able to include that in the list of charges for the tribunal."

"The actual attack, including the injection of jeunsenotiaum and the medical reports from my initial treatment, should be included for the tribunal," Qui-Gon maintained. "If all goes well, it will not become necessary to reveal more until a treatment has been found to reverse the changes."

"Maybe we should rethink exactly how much we want the illusion to age you, Master," Obi-Wan remarked. At everyone's looks of confusion, he expounded a bit. "I assume we will have to provide written affidavits to be distributed to the tribunal." The Prime Minister nodded in agreement and Obi-Wan continued, "If those affidavits state that due to his exposure to the drug Qui-Gon's age is now approximately forty-four, I suggest he should appear to be approximately forty-four."

"Good point, Padawan," Qui-Gon agreed. "And if it becomes necessary, we can drop the illusion completely and allow the tribunal to see the full extent of the damage."

"Who will prepare these affidavits and get them endorsed?" Odan asked.

"I can do that, Father, and I'll deliver them to you before the tribunal," Moytak said.

"But you won't be allowed in the building," Obi-Wan noted in confusion.

"Immediate family has a dispensation which allows us access to Father's office through his private lift," Moytak explained. Suddenly a smile blossomed on his face and he looked from Obi-Wan to his father. "I assume that you don't want anyone aware that Obi-Wan is in the building until after everyone has congregated in the meeting room."

"Definitely," Odan agreed. "If we have to show the documentation that will allow Obi-Wan into the building, we'll lose the element of surprise."

"Obi-Wan, would you be able to maintain illusions for both yourself and Master Qui-Gon for a few minutes," Moytak asked.

Obi-Wan considered it for just a moment before answering. "Sure, as long as all I had to do was maintain the illusions. Why do you ask?"

With a quick glance towards his brother-in-law, Moytak explained. "You and Feo are about the same build. If you could disguise yourself as Feo, you, Master Qui-Gon and I, could arrive together tomorrow morning and take the private lift to Father's office. You could remain there until it's time to go into the meeting room where the tribunal will be held and no one would be the wiser."

Obi-Wan stood up and crossed the room, studying Feo intently for about a minute before turning back towards the others. Within a matter of seconds, a remarkably good replica of Healer Feo Yagil stood where Obi-Wan had been and a moment later Qui-Gon appeared to once again be in his mid forties. "Will that pass?"

Before anyone could answer, the door opened and Mirith addressed the man standing in the center of the room. "Your son is refusing to go to sleep until you come up to tuck him in."

"There's your answer, Obi-Wan," Feo chuckled as he rose from his chair. "If you can pass the wife test, you can pass anything."

Shock was too weak a word for the expression on Mirith's face as she looked between the two Feo's. After a few more seconds, Obi-Wan took pity on Mirith and allowed the illusion to fade away. "Don't worry, you only have one husband to take home tonight, Mirith."

"How did you do that?" Mirith asked but before Obi-Wan could reply she shook her head. "Forget it. I really don't want to know." Without another word, she left the room and, knowing it was in his best interest, Feo followed close behind her.

Moytak dissolved into laughter as the door closed and the others in the room weren't far behind. "That made my night. We couldn't have arranged that better if we'd been trying."

When the laughter died down, Odan spoke. "There is a conference room on the same floor as my office that would be perfect. I'll have my assistant make the calls first thing in the morning, asking everyone to arrive by 1100. When everyone is assembled, I can enter the room with Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan in tow."

"Father, you may want to post guards outside both entrances after the tribunal begins," Moytak said. "From what we have found during our investigation, I wouldn't put it past either Defense Minister Xiandoran or Major Arvid to try to leave when they realize how compelling the case against them is."

"Is that everything?" Odan asked, after nodding his agreement.

After taking a moment to mentally review their discussion, Qui-Gon answered, "I think we've covered everything."

"Good. Now we can relax and enjoy the rest of our evening," Odan announced as he rose from his seat and headed over to the bar. He refilled his glass and Qui-Gon's and noticed that the younger men also rose and obtained refills of whatever they were drinking as he settled back into his chair.

The conversation had shifted back to more socially acceptable topics by the time Vatiana and the others rejoined the group. Mirith had relayed the story of the two Feos and both Vatiana and Kairylyn wanted to see it first hand. Obi-Wan capitulated after a brief prodding and afterwards shared more stories of some of his and Qui-Gon's more amusing missions.

It was after 2200 by the time Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan left the Shaadir household and were mounted on the speeder bike for the trip back to Moytak's townhouse. The air was a bit cooler and that, added to the exhaustion he could feel coming from Qui-Gon, caused Obi-Wan to navigate a much more direct route than on the trip over. He dropped his master at the front door before driving into the parking facility and settling the bike in Moytak's parking space.

When he walked through the door of Moytak's townhouse, Qui-Gon was walking away from the comm unit and heading into the small kitchen. As he hung his cloak he could see Qui-Gon gathering the items he needed to brew tea. "Master, let me do that," Obi-Wan said, as he moved to the older man's side.

Qui-Gon looked down at what he was doing and answered in a bemused tone, "Not even sure why I'm doing this."

Obi-Wan emptied the water from the kettle and pushed the other items back into the corner. "Why don't we head into the bedroom? I'll give you a massage and help you to relax."

Turning so that he was facing his apprentice, Qui-Gon met his gaze and smiled wryly. "You need to work on your pickup lines, love."

Taking the hint from Qui-Gon's tone, Obi-Wan allowed an expression of false innocence to bloom on his face and teased, "You wound me. I'm fully prepared to make good on my offer and give you a full body massage." The innocent look morphed into an evil smirk as he added, "It's not my fault if that always leads to more strenuous activities."

With a raised eyebrow as his only reply, Qui-Gon switched off the lights and headed into the bedroom and in less than a second Obi-Wan was following behind.

After a quick trip to the refresher, Qui-Gon sat down on the bed and Obi-Wan moved to his haunches before his master, removing Qui-Gon's boots with an ease that spoke of years of practice. Belt, sash and tunics disappeared almost as quickly and then Obi-Wan pulled him to his feet.

After pausing to turn back the blankets, Obi-Wan pulled off his master's leggings and linens before gently pushing him to lie back on the bed. "I'll be back in a second," he said before disappearing into the refresher. He returned a few moments later with a pair of towels, one wet and one dry, and a bottle of massage oil. He placed them on the night table before taking a moment to strip out of his clothing and bundle the dirty clothing together for the cleaning service.

Qui-Gon watched in obvious pleasure as Obi-Wan stripped off his clothing and moved around the small bedroom. He stole a brief kiss before complying with his padawan's order to roll over, settling on his stomach. In seconds, Obi-Wan was straddling his thighs.

Pouring a generous portion of oil into his palm, Obi-Wan took a moment to warm it before moving his hands to Qui-Gon's shoulders. "You're so tight, love," he said as he began kneading the taut muscles.

"I thought that was a good thing," Qui-Gon retorted as he arched his butt off the bed.

Smacking his palm down on the enticing butt cheek, Obi-Wan replied with a chuckle, "What's good for your ass is bad for your shoulders."

Wiggling again, Qui-Gon prodded, "Let's forget about my shoulders and take advantage of the area where tight is a good thing."

"Patience, my impatient young Master," Obi-Wan chided as he pushed Qui-Gon's hips back down on the bed. He shimmed forward until his half-hard cock rested provocatively against the crack of his lover's ass and returned his attention to the tight shoulders.

"You are a big tease, Obi-Wan Kenobi," Qui-Gon quipped as he pressed his hips upwards again.

"All good things come to those who are patient, my Master," Obi-Wan said huskily. Even as he traded teasing banter with Qui-Gon, part of Obi-Wan was cataloguing the changes in the body beneath him. The muscles under his hands seemed firmer, the skin smoother and the movements both quicker and a bit stronger.

"I don't think that's quite how that saying goes, my Padawan," Qui-Gon replied, his voice taking on a somewhat lethargic quality as he began to relax.

A soft chuckle was his only reply as Obi-Wan continued his massage. As the tight muscles loosened under the pressure of his fingers, the normal contours of the familiar body seemed to be almost outweighed by the changes. His thoughts pondered that quandary as his hands slipped from the shoulders down to Qui-Gon's lower back where he repeated his earlier ministrations. When those muscles had relaxed he slipped even lower, massaging the firm ass cheeks thoroughly. After he was certain that Qui-Gon was fully relaxed, he switched the tone of his touches from massaging to caressing. His fingertips swirled lightly over the skin covering the tight buttocks and it didn't take long for the relaxed body beneath him to begin to tense in an entirely different way. He warmed a bit more oil in his palm and then drizzled it over the small of Qui-Gon's back and into the crease between his cheeks.

Qui-Gon reacted to the hands caressing him, in turns arching into the touches or sinking deeper into the bed. When an oiled finger circled his anus, disappearing every time he tried to shift into the teasing touch, the last vestiges of his patience seemed to evaporate and he growled, "Enough. I thought the whole purpose of this exercise was to relax me."

"You seem pretty relaxed to me," Obi-Wan quipped before giving in and pressing his finger passed the tight ring of muscle guarding the opening of Qui-Gon's body.

"And I'll be more relaxed after you fuck me into the mattress," Qui-Gon replied, his blunt choice of words another change from his normal conduct.

The somewhat vulgar command from his usually cultured Master sent a surge of arousal straight to Obi-Wan's cock. Squashing his desire to just shove into the tight heat surrounding his finger, he went back to his teasing. "We wouldn't want to rush through the experience." Contrary to his words, he added a second finger, stretching and coating Qui-Gon's opening until his fingers slipped in and out easily.

When Obi-Wan removed his fingers to apply more oil, Qui-Gon used the momentary distraction to unseat his apprentice and shift up onto his knees. Reaching back, he placed one hand behind his padawan's neck and pulled him forward for a deep kiss, thrusting his tongue into Obi-Wan's mouth the way he had been asking Obi-Wan to thrust into his body. When he broke the kiss, he settled onto his hands and knees as he ordered, "Now get to it. Otherwise, I may have to see just how much of an edge this younger body will give me when I wrestle you to the bed and take control here."

Even as he began to spread oil over his erection, Obi-Wan snorted, "As if you need any more of an advantage than the twenty kilos you have on me." He stifled a laugh at the glare on Qui-Gon's face and shifted between the spread legs, coming to the conclusion that any more teasing would find him tossed on his ass and pinned to the floor. "Ready?" he asked as he placed the head of his cock against Qui-Gon's opening.

"Sith, yes," Qui-Gon answered, snapping his hips back to emphasize his readiness.

Obi-Wan pressed forward, gently at first, and then just thrusting hard when Qui-Gon began growling softly. "Oh yes," he moaned as he sunk fully into that tight sheath.

"Move, damn it," Qui-Gon ordered when Obi-Wan remained still.

All traces of Obi-Wan's restraint melted away with uncharacteristic impatience that colored the husky order. His fingers dug into Qui-Gon's hips and he began thrusting, long strokes that had him pulling out almost completely and then slamming back in, each one a little harder than the one before. Moans, grunts and cries of "yes, harder, again," punctuated the sounds of slapping flesh as Obi-Wan pounded into Qui-Gon. Much sooner than he would have liked, Obi-Wan felt his balls tightening so he slipped one hand around to grasp Qui-Gon's cock.

"My Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon cried out as his release roared through him a few rough strokes later.

The muscles surrounding him tightened and Obi-Wan's orgasm began within seconds, his semen pulsing into Qui-Gon's body as his master's coated his fist.. He laid his head on Qui-Gon's sweaty back as the tremors rushing through him abated. When he found the strength to speak, he declared in a ragged voice, "Always yours, Qui-Gon." After kissing the patch of skin under his lips, he moved back until he slipped from his lover's body and collapsed onto the bed.

Qui-Gon shifted from his hands and knees and rolled onto his back. "Amazing. I'd have to say that was even more revitalizing than my earlier healing trance."

"Maybe you should mention that to Master Jufa when he arrives," Obi-Wan teased. "Maybe he'll make sex part of your treatment regime."

"As if I could be so lucky," Qui-Gon returned as he held his arms open in invitation. "Now, let's get some sleep, love. Tomorrow will be an interesting day."

Obi-Wan didn't hesitate to slip into the welcome embrace, not letting the stickiness of sweat or semen keep him from snuggling against the broad chest. "I love you," he whispered as he settled his ear over Qui-Gon's heart and allowed the comforting beat to lull him to sleep.

Knowing the day's events would most likely task the energy reserves a good night's sleep had given them, they rose after a brief period of kissing and caressing. Evading Obi-Wan's concerned questions by disappearing into the refresher, Qui-Gon showered first, heading into the kitchen to prepare tea and order first-meal as soon as he finished dressing. By the time Obi-Wan joined him, he had placed their scheduled call to Captain Embree and was filling two mugs. "Our food should be delivered shortly."

Taking the mug that Qui-Gon pressed into his hand, Obi-Wan nodded his thanks and asked pointedly, "Are you planning to spend the day avoiding any discussion of your condition?"

Breathing a heavy sigh of resignation, Qui-Gon replied, "What's there to say? I've regressed about three more years; my physical state is basically unchanged from yesterday, though it appears that our activities last night along with eight hours of sleep restored my energy levels."

Obi-Wan opened his mouth as if to contradict his master but seemed to decide against it. Sipping his tea, he asked, "Should we review the information we've compiled again before Moytak arrives?" Before Qui-Gon could answer the door chimed and Obi-Wan went over to answer it. Thanking the waiter, he pushed the serving cart into the room, grabbing the datapads he had set aside the night before and placing them and the food on the small table. Dropping into one of the chairs, he looked over at Qui-Gon as he began to fill a plate. "We can go over everything while we eat, if you'd like."

Eagerly accepting the reprieve from their previous topic, Qui-Gon sat down as well, filling a plate and settling into the comfortable pattern of reviewing the results of the investigation with Obi-Wan.

The next time the door chimed it was Moytak, arriving to accompany them to the Prime Minister's office. After they shared greetings, Obi-Wan grabbed the datapads from the table, tucked them into the pouch on his belt and gathered their cloaks. He handed Qui-Gon his cloak as they reached the door, shrugging into his as he stepped into the hallway. He watched while Qui-Gon pulled up his hood to hide his face then following his master and Moytak to the lift.

To facilitate the deception they would need when they arrived, Moytak had used his own ground transport, leaving it parked in the cul-de-sac. They settled into the vehicle quickly and Moytak drove them directly to the Parliament Building. He pulled into a visitor's parking space and turned off the ignition. "Are you ready?"

Obi-Wan took a moment to center himself and then drew on the Force. In the blink of an eye, he morphed into an accurate replica of Feo Yagil and a few seconds later Qui-Gon's appearance shifted from that of a twenty-one year old to a man closer to his mid-forties. Images firmly in place, Obi-Wan replied with Feo's smile. "Ready."

Looking a little shocked even though he had expected it, Moytak got out of the vehicle and opened the door for the Jedi. "After you, Master Qui-Gon."

They walked the short distance to the building quickly and made their way to the Prime Minister's office with a minimum of conversation. Moytak greeted a few people as they passed but Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan only nodded politely at the people they walked by. They exited the private lift and entered Minister Shaadir's office without any fanfare, directed to the inner office as soon as they crossed the threshold.

When the door closed behind them, Obi-Wan verified that no one beside the Prime Minister occupied the office and then released his hold on the Force illusion. The image of Feo evaporated as did the age altering of Qui-Gon and his Master again appeared as a twenty-one year old.

"Even after watching you do that twice now, it still seems almost surreal," Moytak commented. "And after the things you did last time you were on Ambria, nothing should shock me, Obi-Wan."

"The Force does have a multitude of uses," Obi-Wan deadpanned, in an eerie impression of his Master.

A raised eyebrow was Qui-Gon's only reaction to the comment before he addressed the Prime Minister. "Has everything been arranged, Odan?"

"Yes. I was able to get Magistrate Bdu to sign the edict to allow Obi-Wan to be present for the proceedings," Odan began. "He also suggested an impartial Magistrate to oversee the tribunal and, after speaking to Magistrate Vekker, I am comfortable with his recommendation. My staff has hand delivered notifications to all relevant parties that their presence is required at 1100 hours in the conference room under the guise of our ongoing terrorism investigation and I have hand picked six men from my personal guard to stand sentry at the doors to the conference room once the tribunal begins."

Glancing up at the chrono, Moytak said, "Then all that's left to do is wait.."

After looking over at the chrono as well, Qui-Gon turned to the Prime Minister. "If I remember correctly, there is a small private sitting room attached to this office. Would it be possible for Obi-Wan and I to retire there to meditate until it's time for the proceedings?"

"Certainly, Qui-Gon," Odan replied as he moved towards a recessed door. "I'll come to get you when everyone has congregated in the meeting room so you can enter with me."

"Thank you," Qui-Gon replied as he walked through the door, Obi-Wan trailing a few steps behind him.

Removing his cloak and then reaching to remove Qui-Gon's, Obi-Wan draped them over a chair before turning to face his master, face creased in concern. "Are you having more side effects from the jeunsenotiaum, Master?"

"Just a few flutters in my heartbeat and a little dizziness. Nothing much different than I was feeling this morning, Padawan," Qui-Gon replied. "I just thought it would benefit both of us to spend some extra time in meditation to build our reserves in preparation for the tribunal." He reached over and ran his fingertips gently along the side of Obi-Wan's face. "You are more than capable of keeping up the illusion for as long as needed unless you allow your concern for me to undermine your focus. Keep your mind on the here and now, Obi-Wan, and do not allow your apprehension over what the future may bring to affect your actions in the present."

Biting back his retort that one of them had to worry about the future, Obi-Wan drew on the Force for calm and replied with the only acceptable answer. "Yes, Master. Joint meditations or separate?"

A small smile lifted the corners of Qui-Gon's mouth. "Separate, I think. Better to remove any temptation you might feel to share energy with me instead of building your own reserves."

Unable to deny that he would resort to that if he felt it was necessary, Obi-Wan again replied, "Yes, Master," as he sat down on the floor in a cross legged position.

Qui-Gon settled on the floor in front of Obi-Wan, kneeling in the more traditional meditation posture. "Do not fear, Padawan. The Force will provide an answer," he reassured before closing his eyes, slowing his breathing and dropping into his trance.

"From your mouth to the Force's ear, "Obi-Wan whispered, before following his master's example and settling into the welcoming currents of the Force.

Obi-Wan surfaced from his meditation to find Qui-Gon turning the tiketis over and over in his palm. His master must have seen the question in his eyes because an answer came before he even could voice it.

"I was having trouble finding my center and the tiketis seemed to help me achieve my focus for meditation," Qui-Gon explained.

"You never have trouble finding your center," Obi-Wan countered. "Another side effect from the jeunsenotiaum, Master?"

"Could be, I guess," Qui-Gon admitted. "It's been quite some time since I've had difficulty centering but it seems odd that your gift..." Before he could finish his sentence, they heard a discrete knock on the door. Rising from his knees, Qui-Gon tucked the blue stone back into the pouch on his belt and held out a hand to his apprentice. "Duty calls."

Obi-Wan accepted the proffered hand after only a moment's hesitation but as they left the room, he couldn't shake the feeling that there was something important in Qui-Gon's last comment. Knowing he didn't have time to delve into it now, he filed the thought, planning to devote tonight's meditation to the nagging feeling that he was missing something very important.

Minister Shaadir looked between the two Jedi as he addressed them. "Everyone is assembled in the conference room and the handpicked members of my personal guard are standing by. They will take position as soon as the three of us enter. Are we ready?"

Nodding in reply, Obi-Wan drew on the strength of the Force and concentrated on Qui-Gon. Within seconds, tendrils of the Force surrounded the age-altered body and the twenty one year old was again replaced by an approximately forty-four year old version of his Master. "Ready."

"Good luck," Moytak said as he opened the office door.

Flanked on either side by the Jedi, Prime Minister Shaadir walked through the door his son held open and led the group down the empty corridor. Two members of the Minister's private guard took up a position behind them as they crossed distance to the conference room. When Minister Shaadir nodded to the ceremonial guard waiting at the main entrance, the guard opened the door and announced his arrival. Everyone seated at the two long tables rose in unison as the Prime Minister stepped through the doorway and walked towards his normal seat. He had barely made it halfway down the room's center aisle when a voice rang out in anger.

"How dare you violate Oliani law and allow that boy into an official government gathering in the Parliament Building?" Minister Xiandoran snarled as he jumped to his feet and pointed at Obi-Wan.

Prime Minister Shaadir turned around and faced the Defense Minister confidently. "Jedi Kenobi is here because he has information relevant to the investigation of the terrorist activity." He held up his hand when Xiandoran would have said more and pointed to the aide who was circulating around the table. "The necessary writ to allow Jedi Kenobi into these proceedings was processed by Magistrate Bdu earlier today and copies of it are being distributed as we speak."

Xiandoran threw the papers the aide handed him onto the table and continued his angry rant. "What information could this child possibly have uncovered that Major Arvid's team of intelligence operatives has not?"

"If you would kindly take your seat, Minister Xiandoran, all will be revealed," Shaadir said firmly before continuing to his chair. He directed the Jedi to the two empty seats at the end of the table, continuing to speak as Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan made their way to their places. "Along with the writ allowing Jedi Kenobi's presence, your packets include a number of sworn affidavits providing information on the terrorist activities and the individuals behind them. Please take a few minutes to read through them before we proceed."

Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan scanned the reactions of the people in the room as they read through the documents provided. Shock was apparent from most as they processed the details provided and spikes of fear came from a handful of individuals but, with the amount of attention he was devoting to keeping up the illusion of Qui-Gon's appearance, Obi-Wan wasn't able to pinpoint who was emanating the fear.

Master, can you get a sense of where the fear is coming from? Obi-Wan queried over their bond.

Not without drawing more heavily on the Force, Qui-Gon replied the same way. Maybe when the initial shock fades we'll be able to get a better sense of individual emotions.

Yes, Master, Obi-Wan sent in reply as he continued to scan the room's occupants.

After he had allowed sufficient time for everyone to read through the documents, Minister Shaadir rose from his chair and addressed the assembly. "In light of this accumulation of evidence, I am convening a Tribunal of Inquiry, to begin immediately."

Another wave of shock engulfed the room at this pronouncement and Minister Xiandoran again jumped to his feet again and blurted out, "You can't do that!"

"And why is that, Minister Xiandoran?" Odan asked calmly.

Xiandoran seemed to take a moment to get himself under control before declaring, "A Tribunal of Inquiry can only be convened under the direct jurisdiction of a Senior Magistrate."

At a slight nod from the Prime Minister, the aide who had distributed the evidentiary packets walked to the side entrance. He opened the door and a regal looking gentleman in his mid-sixties, wearing the heavy black robes that signified the office of Magistrate strode confidently into the room. Odan waited until the newcomer had reached his side and then deferred his seat to the Magistrate with a formal proclamation. "I entrust full authority for this Tribunal into the venerable hands of Magistrate Vekker. May the wisdom of the ancients and the clarity of justice surround and support us in our search for the truth." He waited until the Magistrate settled into the chair he had just vacated then moved into the last remaining empty chair at the opposite end of the table from the Jedi and sat down.

"I call this Tribunal to order and bind each person present to swear silent oath that any testimony they provide is the unqualified truth," Magistrate Vekker intoned. "This general declaration holds the same sway as public, individual oaths and each person will be held to the same degree of responsibility for any false information they attempt to impart during this Inquiry."

With that declaration, Magistrate Vekker began his detailed review of the evidentiary documents. The first affidavit in the packet pertained to Qui-Gon's interviews with Farl Corgan and the Magistrate started the proceedings with that. Besides the questions that the Magistrate asked himself, Oliani custom allowed all members present to ask for clarification on any points and the discussion on the first testimony lasted well into the thirteenth hour.

The attack against the Jedi was the next topic of discussion and Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan provided the facts in a detailed recitation that left very few questions for them. The Magistrate directed a few questions to Major Arvid but she deflected most unanswered by hiding beneath the cloak of confidentiality her military classification provided. Because the proceedings were only an Inquiry and no actual charges had been filed, counsel was not available to any of the participants. This lack of formal charges and counsel gave individuals more leeway in even refusing outright to reply to questions if they believed doing so could implicate them. Therefore the Magistrate could not oblige anyone to reply but could only use the information shared freely in compiling his findings.

The medical affidavit on Qui-Gon's condition was discussed next and much to Obi-Wan's surprise everything in it was accepted without much debate. They moved on to the evidence that Moytak and his friends had gathered at the site of Qui-Gon's attack and this proved to be a major sticking point. Major Arvid questioned the conditions of both the evidence retrieval and subsequent analysis, claiming their findings could have been tainted by any number of factors during the process. Writs to allow Moytak and Jared into the proceedings were quickly drafted and messengers were sent to retrieve the two younger men and Feo Yagil so that they could answer questions about the evidence first-hand.

A small recess was called while they waited and the Prime Minister had an assortment of items to provide a light meal delivered to the conference room.. A few people muttered about the Magistrate's decision not to allow anyone involved to leave the vicinity but their complaints were dismissed since both nourishment and a small sanitation facility was available to all within the confines of the conference area.

Moytak was the first to arrive and soon after his arrival the Magistrate called the proceedings back to order. Details of the reconnoitering party were shared and Moytak remained calm and collected even under Arvid's verbal battering. Feo arrived during Moytak's testimony and he took his turn answering technical questions about his part in the analysis of the vial and its contents. By the time Jared took his place at the questioning table, most of the points had been discussed in great detail and he was dismissed after only three questions.

Obi-Wan's interview with Aellyn Jandi was the next topic of review, although the identity of his source was kept confidential. Minister Xiandoran tried to get Magistrate Vekker to dismiss the information in its entirety as hearsay and force the unidentified witness appear herself but the Magistrate stood by the earlier ruling that to do so could place the woman in danger.

It was 1700 by the time the discussion shifted to Obi-Wan's interview with Sani Amil. Major Arvid made the same attempt at exclusion that the Defense Minister had with the same result. Questions during this portion of the evidentiary review were more numerous than during Obi-Wan's earlier testimony and he was finding it extremely tiring to be continually drawing on the Force to maintain the illusion of Qui-Gon's appearance while Arvid and a few others were challenging his comments at every turn. He was more than relieved when Magistrate Vekker called an end to the repetitive questioning and asked those assembled if anyone had any further information to share.

When no one came forward, the Magistrate called another recess and withdrew to the small sitting room where he had waited originally, to review his notes and the evidentiary documents.

During the stoppage, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan retreated back into Odan's office and as soon as the door closed behind them, Obi-Wan allowed the Force disguise to fade. Qui-Gon dropped onto the couch a moment later, his face betraying his fatigue. Obi-Wan knelt beside the couch, one hand resting against a bearded check. "Master?" The one word easily conveyed the concern welling inside him.

"Just give me a moment, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon said, eyes closed and head resting against the cushions.

During the tribunal, Obi-Wan had been so focused on keeping up the Force disguise that he had not been able to spare any energy to monitor his master so he was surprised at the level of weariness he felt coming from Qui-Gon.

"During various segments of testimony, I was using the Force to try to discern if the fear or anxiety swirling around the room was emanating from anyone other than Minister Xiandoran and Major Arvid. I guess I overextended myself a bit," Qui-Gon explained without opening his eyes.

Obi-Wan closed his own eyes, gathering the Force within him to bolster his own reserves before sending an influx of energy into his master. He could feel Qui-Gon drawing on the energy he was sending, using it to rebuild his depleted energy levels.

"Better?" Obi-Wan asked, when Qui-Gon finally opened his eyes. .

"Yes, thank you," Qui-Gon said. "It's difficult to not use the Force instinctively to augment what is obvious to our other senses after relying on it for my entire life. I didn't expect that small amount of focus to be so draining."

Even with his concern over Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan could understand how difficult it would be to not automatically reach into the Force. "Maybe we should get you over to the Medical Center," Obi-Wan said, even though he didn't expect Qui-Gon to agree.

"That won't be necessary. I'm feeling better already," Qui-Gon countered as he sat up straighter on the couch. "We should get back."

Obi-Wan was about to argue when he heard a knock on the door and Moytak poked his head inside. "Is everything all right, Obi-Wan?" Moytak asked.

"We're managing," Obi-Wan answered. "This day has been rather draining. I'm glad it's almost over."

"Well, the Magistrate is getting ready to come back in," Moytak explained.

"We'll be right there," Qui-Gon replied as he rose a bit shakily to his feet.

When the door slid closed behind Moytak, Obi-Wan turned back to his master but Qui-Gon deflected any attempt at dissuasion. "We mustn't keep everyone waiting."

Seeing the statement as the dismissal it was, Obi-Wan took a calming breath before drawing on the Force and recreating the illusion that would re-age Qui-Gon. When the illusion was firmly in place, the two men left Odan's office and traveled the short distance back to the conference room.

They were standing in the back of the room, once again the picture of Jedi serenity, when the side door opened and the robed figured stepped through it. Qui-Gon glanced over at Obi-Wan and said softly, "Let's hope that Magistrate Vekker's quick decision is a positive sign."

The Magistrate moved back to his place at the table and when everyone had returned to their seats, he announced, "After reviewing this afternoon's testimony and the evidentiary documents, I hereby rule that there is sufficient evidence to bring charges of sedition and insurgence against both Defense Minister Evet Xiandoran and Major Koyi Arvid." Murmurs filled the room but neither of the accused showed any reaction to the Magistrate's declaration. When the room quieted, he continued, "Since their widespread contacts and financial prosperity would make them both flight risks, I am placing them both under house arrest until such time as a Tribunal of Verity can be completed."

At this last comment, Minister Xiandoran finally showed a reaction, jumping from his seat and ranting, "You can't be serious. You can't detain me on suppositions and innuendos. I am a high-ranking government official, not a common criminal."

"Your position is the only thing keeping me from having you incarcerated in the Oliani Detention Center, Minister Xiandoran. Continue this behavior and I may have to reconsider that decision," Magistrate Vekker warned. "You will both be fitted with electronic monitoring devices that will continually transmit your location to the Judiciary Guards who will be stationed at your residences. If you attempt to leave your homes for any reason that has not been pre-approved by the Judiciary, you will be immediately transported to the Detention facility." He glared between Xiandoran and Arvid, disgust evident in his expression. "The accusations against both of you are only a whisper away from outright treason. I think it would do you both well to seriously consider your positions and contemplate cooperating fully with the board that will be assembled to conduct the full tribunal."

Seeming to accept that there was nothing he could do at the moment, Xiandoran settled back in his chair with a disgruntled expression. He shot a quick look at Major Arvid, before absently collecting the evidence packet he had barely looked through.

At the Magistrates' pronouncement, Prime Minister Shaadir rose from his chair and walked to the outer door to the room. Opening it, he gestured for the six officers he had assigned to stand guard over the entrances to enter and move to stand behind Xiandoran and Arvid. "Please remain here until the Judiciary Guards come to escort Minister Xiandoran and Major Arvid to their confinement." When they nodded their agreement, he turned back to the other people assembled in the room. "The involvement of trusted government officials in this terrorist activity distresses me greatly. Most of us suffered terrible losses during the years of civil war. Anyone who would be party to activities that would rekindle the animosity between the Oliani and Cerenti - for whatever purpose - is not worthy of being called Oliani. I will do all within my power to ensure that anyone from either culture who is involved in these seditious acts will be prosecuted to the full extent of Ambrian law." Odan's voice was shaking with repressed fury by the time he spoke the last words.

Silence permeated the room as the Prime Minister made eye contact with each individual in turn. Uncomfortable under the intense scrutiny, the other assembled officials began quietly leaving the conference room. By the time the Judiciary Guards arrived to take responsibility for the detainees only the Magistrate remained, speaking with the Prime Minister while Moytak approached the side of the table where Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan remained seated.

"I'm gratified to see that our investigative efforts proved to be sufficient to press the Inquiry into the next stage," Moytak said. "And without having to reveal the full effect the attack had on Master Qui-Gon." He looked between the two Jedi with a combination of gratitude and concern as he added. "Mother mentioned planning a casual dinner for everyone whenever the Tribunal concluded. Are you feeling up to joining us?"

Although their brief respite on the Prime Minister's office had revived them somewhat, Obi-Wan could still sense the bone deep fatigue plaguing Qui-Gon so he replied quietly, "Could we beg off this time? Qui-Gon really needs to rest. And after the stress of this day, I want nothing more than a quick meal, a hot shower and bed, not necessarily in that order."

"No problem, Obi-Wan," Moytak laughed. "Why don't you and Master Qui-Gon head back to my townhouse and I'll extend your regrets to Mother. Father's driver is waiting downstairs. "

"Thanks, Moytak," Obi-Wan replied as he and Qui-Gon left the conference room.

Obi-Wan kept up the Force disguise as they left the building, aware that a number of officials from the tribunal were still milling around the lobby. As Moytak had promised, a transport was waiting in front of the building and they were quickly settled into the back seat. They completed the trip back to Moytak's townhouse in comfortable silence and only after the door had closed behind them did Obi-Wan allow the Force illusion to fade.

Dropping heavily onto the couch, Obi-Wan finally gave voice to the concerns that had been building in him for the duration of the Tribunal. "How are you holding up, Master?"

"Feeling a little rough around the edges but I guess that's to be expected," Qui-Gon replied. "Nothing that your combination of food, a hot bath and some sleep won't cure. How are you doing, Padawan?"

Rising from the couch, Obi-Wan said, "Sit down and relax and I'll fill the tub for you." Without waiting to see if his Master agreed or even answering Qui-Gon's query about his own condition, Obi-Wan disappeared into the refresher.

Using this mundane chore to blot out his feelings of helplessness, Obi-Wan started the water and searched through the cabinets until he found some soothing bath oil. He poured an ample measure into the steaming water, placed two large towels on the ledge by the tub and then went back into the common room.

Qui-Gon had shed his cloak, settled into one of the chairs and was in the process of unbuckling his boots when Obi-Wan returned. When his padawan hung his cloak and dropped onto his knees in front of him, Qui-Gon pushed away the helpful hands. "You are at least as weary as I am, if not more. I appreciate all your tender care, love, but you need to pay attention to your own condition."

Defiantly moving his hands back to unfasten the stiff brown buckles, Obi-Wan contradicted, "I may be weary, but I'm not the one whose body is struggling to keep functioning. You may not want to admit that your condition is worsening, but I could sense the return of the irregularities in your heart rhythm back in Minister Shaadir's office. As you have so often lectured me - there is no shame in admitting that you need assistance when you are ill or injured. And until you've been able to spend some time sleeping or, better yet, in a healing trance, to replenish your energy levels, I plan on providing that assistance whether you like it or not." As he pulled off the first boot, he added quietly, " And I'll have plenty of time to rest later, preferably wrapped in your arms."

Unwilling to expend his remaining energy in a futile argument, Qui-Gon sat back and allowed Obi-Wan to finish removing his boots. When the boots were set aside, Obi-Wan rose from his knees and extended a hand to his Master. "Let's move into the bedroom so that I don't have to spend any extra time later picking up clothing."

Taking the offered hand, Qui-Gon followed his apprentice into the bedroom with a slight smile. "It's nice to see that you're extending your efficiency into all portions of your life."

It took only a few moments to get Qui-Gon out of his clothes and settled into the large tub. Obi-Wan spent a few minutes deftly washing the thick brown hair and the well-loved body, keeping his touches gentle and comforting without slipping into the realm of sensual. When he finished, he left his Master soaking in the tub and headed back into the common room to contact Captain Embree, order late meal and brew tea.

After placing the teapot on the warmer, Obi-Wan went back into the bedroom and stripped down to his leggings before returning to the refresher. Qui-Gon was almost asleep, his head leaning against the edge of the sunken tub and Obi-Wan couldn't resist the temptation to kiss him. When he pulled back, sleepy blue eyes were staring up at him in amusement. "Better get you out of there before you slip under and drown," Obi-Wan teased, as he held out one of the large towels.

"Or turn into a wrinkled mass," Qui-Gon replied as he got to his feet. He let Obi-Wan dry off his body and towel the excess water from his hair. He pulled on the singlet and sleep pants that Obi-Wan had lain out on the bed and then turned back to his apprentice. "'Fresher's all yours, Padawan. Take your time. I'll listen for the meal delivery."

When Qui-Gon disappeared in the direction of the common room, Obi-Wan went back into the refresher. He drained the large tub, stripped off his leggings, adjusted the spray to just this side of scalding and stepped into the shower enclosure. He relinquished all of his worries into the Force and allowed the hot water to beat down on him, pounding the tension out of his muscles. He wasn't sure exactly how long he had stood there but when the water temperature started to drop, he cleaned himself quickly, managing to finish rinsing his hair and body just as the water became uncomfortably cool.

Drying off and dressing the same way as his Master, Obi-Wan returned to the common room to find the food he had ordered arranged on the low table along with two mugs of steaming tea. He studied his master as he settled into his seat and was relieved to see that Qui-Gon was looking better after the bath and short time resting.

"Come and eat, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon ordered as he began filling a plate. His expression took a predatory slant as he added, "That way we can get to the third and most pleasant part of your plans for the evening ? bed."

"Well, we could skip late-meal," Obi-Wan said, his eyes raking over Qui-Gon's body, but the effect was ruined when his stomach growled rather loudly. "Or not," he chuckled as he settled onto the couch beside his Master.

They shared their meal with very little conversation, their hunger and the excellent food making them put aside anything that would delay its enjoyment. Obi-Wan refilled Qui-Gon's tea mug and then cleared up from their meal, stacking the dishes on the cart and pushing it back out into the hallway. By the time he refilled his mug and walked back into the common room, Qui-Gon had lain down on the sofa and was starting to doze off. He sat on the floor beside the sofa with his mug and joined his Force sense with his master's to help Qui-Gon drop into a healing trance. After he had finished his tea, he took a moment to assess Qui-Gon's physical state and, when he was satisfied that he was resting comfortably, settled into a light meditative trance of his own.

The sense of someone approaching the door pulled Obi-Wan from his meditation and he rushed to open it before the sound of the door chime could wake Qui-Gon. He palmed the door open to find Feo Yagil and Master Healer Meneit Jufa standing on the other side.

"Master Jufa, I'm so sorry. I forgot you were due to arrive tonight," Obi-Wan apologized as he held out his hand in greeting.

"It's fine, Obi-Wan," Master Jufa reassured. "When I couldn't reach you this afternoon, I contacted Healer Yagil and he explained about the Inquiry. He collected me from the spaceport when my ship arrived and brought me here." Walking into the room as Obi-Wan stepped back, the master healer looked over at the sleeping man on the sofa. "How is he?"

"As he would say, he is holding his own but it seems that although the age reversal has slowed drastically it has not stopped completely," Obi-Wan explained, completing a quick Force scan of Qui-Gon's body even as he spoke. "It seems that any exertion at all makes things worse. Being at the tribunal all day was exhausting for him and at one point his heartbeat became erratic again. He's been in a healing trance for the last couple of hours and he seems to have stabilized again. We need to find a way to reverse the transmutations caused by the jeunsenotiaum and soon before the small irregularities in his body become something more serious. Have you made any progress on that front, Master Jufa?"

"Nothing definitive at the moment but I do have a few theories," Meneit explained, looking appraisingly at Qui-Gon. The master healer extended tendrils of the Force, using it to augment his examination. "Though I'm hoping to make more progress now that I can evaluate the situation first-hand."

"The situation is trying to get some rest here," Qui-Gon deadpanned without bothering to open his eyes.

"Well, since you're awake, get your body off the couch and head into the bedroom so I can do a full examination before Feo delivers me to my lodging," Meneit said. "Feo has offered me the use of his research facilities and a thorough appraisal will give me more accurate data to work with."

Qui-Gon shifted into a sitting position as he replied dryly, "And knowing you, Meneit, I'd better agree if I plan on getting any peace tonight." He turned towards Feo as he rose from the couch. "Thank you for stepping in and arranging transportation and lodging for Master Jufa, Feo. In the stress of the last few days, Obi-Wan and I overlooked that detail."

"Glad I could be of assistance, Master Qui-Gon," Feo replied. He glanced over at the bar and then shifted his glance to Obi-Wan. "While Master Jufa is doing his evaluation, maybe Obi-Wan and I can dig out the bottle of twenty year old Whyren's Reserve that my brother-in-law hides in the back of his liquor cabinet."

"Make sure you save some for me. After undergoing Meneit's torture, I'll surely need it," Qui-Gon drawled. Placing the blue stone he'd been holding on the low table, he turned to the Master Healer. "Let's get this over with."

Obi-Wan stifled a chuckle as Qui-Gon and Meneit disappeared into the bedroom and turned towards the liquor cabinet Feo had mentioned a moment ago. When the other man didn't follow, Obi-Wan turned back to see Feo staring at something on the table in front of the sofa.

"What is that?" Feo asked as the stone he was looking at faded from deep blue to an almost translucent shade.

Walking over to the table, Obi-Wan picked up the object in question and placed it carefully in the center of his palm. "Honestly, I'm not quite sure. It's called a tiketis and when I found it in a tiny shop on the day we arrived in Aka'lat, it seemed to draw me to it. It interacts with our Force signatures somehow, especially with Qui-Gon's." The contact with his skin made the stone begin to darken again and he could see that Feo's interest was piqued.

"May I see it?" Feo asked.

Obi-Wan handed the stone to Feo and watched as the healer examined it closely. By the time Feo finished his scrutiny, all traces of blue had faded and the tiketis had once again become translucent.

"I know of a few other inanimate objects that have some Force sensitivity but I've never before seen anything that actually has a visible reaction to a being's Force aura," Obi-Wan explained. He reached out and ran a fingertip over the stone and it shaded subtly along the path of his finger. "Qui-Gon said that since his injury, holding the tiketis has made it easier for him to meditate and center for his healing trances."

"That's interesting," Feo commented absently though it was clear from his expression that he was contemplating something. After a moment, he placed the tiketis back on the table and turned back to Obi-Wan. "Now, how about that drink?"

The two men moved over to the liquor cabinet and it was short work to locate the bottle and bring out four stout crystal glasses. Feo poured a three finger depth of the amber liquid into two of the glasses and handed one to Obi-Wan. Lifting his glass, he tilted it towards the one the young Jedi was holding. "To solving mysteries ? one down, one to go."

"To solving mysteries," Obi-Wan repeated, tossing a concerned glance in the direction of the bedroom.

Feo seemed to notice the look because he said reassuringly, "We will find a way to reverse the damage."

Walking back into the sitting room, Obi-Wan flopped down hard on the sofa and had to resort to using the Force to keep the contents of his glass from spilling down the front of his tunic. "I just hope it's soon," he proclaimed before draining the liquid from his glass in one long swallow. Placing his empty glass on the low table, he took the opportunity to change the subject to something less stress inducing by asking, "So has Mirith forgiven me yet for last night?"

"For the most part," Feo replied. "It's been quite some time since I've seen my lovely wife rendered speechless.

Obi-Wan chuckled and prodded Feo with some questions about Mirith and the children though he struggled to keep at least half of his attention on their conversation. His mind kept wandering unbidden to other room and he knew he would not be able to fully relax until Master Jufa finished his evaluation.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the two masters emerged from the sleep chamber. Obi-Wan fought the almost overwhelming desire to ask for a detailed accounting of Qui-Gon's condition and instead rose and walked over to the small bar. He picked up the bottle of dark amber liquid and tilted it in the master healer's direction. "Would you care to join us, Master Jufa?"

"Just a light one," Meneit replied as he moved into the sitting area. As he took a seat on the couch, his attention was drawn to the stone Feo was again holding in his hand. "What is that?"

Following close behind, Qui-Gon glanced over to see what he was looking at and answered before either Feo or Obi-Wan could speak. "We have no idea of the stone's origin but Obi-Wan came across it in a small shop during his wanderings when we first arrived. It's called a tiketis and it seems to be imbued with some form of Force sensitivity."

"May I?" Master Jufa asked, holding his hand out to Feo.

Feo dropped the stone gently into the Master Healer's palm, watching intently as the smooth surface took on a very faint blue hue. "The color changed more than that when Obi-Wan held it," Feo remarked.

After he finished pouring, Obi-Wan walked into the common room, handing one glass to Qui-Gon before bringing the other to Master Jufa. "It gets even darker when Qui-Gon holds it."

"Really. Could you show me?" Meneit remarked, his fascination obvious as he returned the tiketis to the low table.

When the tiketis had reverted to its natural state, Obi-Wan picked it up and placed it into the center of his palm. After a minute or two, the smooth rock darkened to a mid-range shade of blue, similar to the color of a Twi'lek's lekku. When the color change had stopped, he held his hand out so that Master Jufa could examine the stone.

The moment contact between the tiketis and Obi-Wan's skin was broken the color began to fade. Within three minutes of being held between Master Jufa's fingers, it had faded back to the much lighter shade of blue. "Interesting," he repeated as he placed the stone back on the table.

After taking a long swallow from his glass, Qui-Gon approached the table and picked up the again translucent stone. It began to change color almost instantly, darkening to a midnight blue within less than a minute.

"Very interesting," Master Jufa remarked speculatively as he traced the smooth blue substance with one fingertip. "It's odd that it would react more strongly to a specific Force signature."

"The shopkeeper told me that the man he acquired it from said the tiketis would eventually choose the person it was meant to belong to," Obi-Wan explained.

"I've never heard of any inorganic substance that reacted like that," Master Jufa replied. "Would you mind if I scanned it? It would make a fascinating subject for further study at some point. In my spare time, of course," he added with a sarcastic snort.

"That'll be when they farm you off to the old age home, Meneit" Qui-Gon teased as he handed the tiketis to him.

The next few minutes were taken up by Master Jufa's scans. The first was done with the stone in its base state, resting on the inanimate surface of the table. The second was completed while Feo held the stone, the third while Meneit held it himself, the fourth while Obi-Wan held it and the last while it rested again in Qui-Gon's palm. When he finished, he tucked the recorder back into the pouch on his belt, downed the rest of his whiskey and then turned to Feo. "I think we should let Qui-Gon get some rest. Are you certain it's not too much of an inconvenience to drop me at my quarters?"

"Not at all, Master Jufa," Feo replied, after he emptied his glass. "It'll give us a chance to finalize our plans for the morning."

Qui-Gon settled back onto the couch after saying his goodbyes and Obi-Wan accompanied the two men to the door. Leaning against the frame of the open doorway, Obi-Wan addressed the Jedi healer. "I don't have the words to express how grateful I am that you're here, Master Jufa."

Placing one hand comfortingly on Obi-Wan's shoulder, Master Jufa reassured him. "We will find a solution, Obi-Wan. Trust in the Force."

"Now you sound like Qui-Gon," Obi-Wan groused lightheartedly.

"I see no reason to resort to hurling insults, Padawan Kenobi," Master Jufa replied, his wry smile and teasing tone in stark contrast to his choice of words. His expression became more serious as he added, "Contact me if anything changes or even if you suspect that anything has. I'll keep my commlink handy."

"Thank you, for everything," Obi-Wan replied, knowing that even with those simple words both men would recognize the depth of his gratitude.

Master Jufa and Feo both nodded in reply before heading down the hallway to the lift. Obi-Wan remained in the open doorway for a moment after the lift doors closed, using the time to rein in his turbulent emotions before turning and allowing the door to slide closed behind him.

Qui-Gon was once again holding the tiketis in his palm, seemingly mesmerized by the deep blue object. His head came up as Obi-Wan approached and he looked at his padawan in mild confusion. "Contact with it seems to soothe the jangling along my nerves." A smile crinkled the corners of his eyes as he added, "almost as much as holding you in my arms."

"I know rocks have always filled an important role in our lives, Master, but I must admit I never expected to be replaced by one," Obi-Wan replied, fighting valiantly to sound offended.

"Not replaced, only augmented," Qui-Gon countered, his smile widening. "Now, unless you have some objection, I'd like to retire to our bedroom. I have a deep-seated desire to replace the memory of lying in that bed undergoing Master Jufa's rather extensive clinical examination with something much more pleasant."

Certain that Master Jufa would not have left if there had been any immediate concern, Obi-Wan agreed, his smile turning positively lecherous as he drew Qui-Gon to his feet. "I can think of a number of activities we can undertake that would render you incapable of any thought whatsoever."

The twinkle in his eye was the only hint that the formal bow Qui-Gon bestowed on his padawan was anything but. "I give myself over into your capable hands."

Obi-Wan led his lover into the bedroom, taking the tiketis from Qui-Gon's hand and placing it carefully on the bedside table as they reached the bed. Within seconds, the room was filled with sounds of clothing being removed and tossed aside. As the minutes passed, laughter, teasing remarks and soft sounds of pleasure gave way to the creaking of the bed frame and louder moans. The shifting sounds were concrete evidence that Obi-Wan was successful in his goal of rendering his lover incapable of thought.

When the two of them finally collapsed on the bed, spent and wonderfully sated, Qui-Gon pulled Obi-Wan into his arms and kissed him gently. When he broke the kiss, he broached the subject he had been avoiding earlier with a subtle appeal. "I realize that you have concerns about Master Jufa's findings but would you mind terribly if we put off our discussion until morning? I would very much like to ignore reality for a while and indulge in the pleasure of holding you in my arms as we drift off to sleep."

Again burying his need to know every excruciating detail, Obi-Wan whispered over the lips millimeters from his. "It is my pleasure to indulge you, love." He kissed Qui-Gon a bit more passionately than he had been kissed and added as he drew back and nestled into his lover's embrace, "Let's sleep now, safely ensconced in each other's arms. Dealing with everything else can certainly wait until morning." He felt more than heard Qui-Gon's murmur of agreement and settled more comfortably against the large body.

Qui-Gon drifted off to sleep within a few minutes but Obi-Wan lay awake for quite some time. He listened to the sound of his master's heartbeat pulsing under his ear, trying very hard to ignore the minor fluctuations in the strong rhythm. Finally, exhaustion overcame his apprehension and he drifted off to sleep.

Qui-Gon came awake to the sight of the sunlight filtering through the high windows and the feel of Obi-Wan's warm body pressed against him. Almost unconsciously, he began stroking his palms over the smooth skin of back and hip. His gentle motions must have penetrated Obi-Wan's dreams because after a few minutes he heard the sleepy murmur, "Mornin', Master."

"Good morning, Padawan," Qui-Gon replied. "Did you sleep well?"

"Relatively. You?" Obi-Wan returned.

"Like the dead," Qui-Gon quipped automatically but when he felt Obi-Wan flinch, amended his traditional reply to, "Like a man well fucked,".

Levering his head from its resting place on Qui-Gon's chest, Obi-Wan's frown became a lewd smile as he retorted, "We aim to please."

Reacting to the shift of Obi-Wan's morning erection against his hip, Qui-Gon placed one hand on each of Obi-Wan's butt cheeks and pulled him firmly against him. "Any chance, you'd be interested in aiming to please, again?" Shifting so that his erection was in line with his lover's, he rocked his hips upward as he teased, "The upside of this situation is that I'm able to keep up with your youthful libido."

"As if you've ever had an issue with that," Obi-Wan quipped, matching Qui-Gon's rocking motion. But before either man could even consider how they would take things to the next level, the sound of a commlink chirping disrupted their plans. Obi-Wan disentangled himself from his master and routed through the clothing on the floor until he came up with the offending item and tossed it in the direction of the bed.

Qui-Gon caught it with ease and thumbed it on as he spoke into it. "Jinn."

"Qui-Gon, it's Odan. Sorry to disturb you this early but I just received word that Minister Xiandoran has requested a meeting this morning," the voice coming over the commlink explained. "I was hoping you'd feel up to attending with me. You could help to substantiate whether Xiandoran is being forthright or doctoring the admissions to his advantage."

After a regret-filled look at Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon replied that he would be happy to assist and they spent the next few minutes firming up the time and place. They decided that since the Magistrate had already ruled to hold the Defense Minister and Major Arvid over for a full tribunal, there was no need for them to continue using the Force to disguise or conceal Qui-Gon's age reversal. When he broke the connection, he rose from the bed and drew Obi-Wan into his arms. Remembering his promise from last night and knowing that time was limited, he decided that their conversation should take precedent over sex. "Looks like our more pleasurable activities will have to wait until later. Would you order first-meal for us while I shower? You can ply me with questions about Master Jufa's evaluation while we break our fast.."

Although unsuccessful at hiding his look of disappointment when he stepped out of Qui-Gon's embrace, Obi-Wan agreed with a forced smile. "Any preference for first-meal?"

"Maybe some of those calino berry muffins we had the other morning, with honey butter, and anything else that you find appealing," Qui-Gon said as he headed towards the refresher. He sensed more than heard Obi-Wan's agreement as he adjusted the water and stepped under the warm spray. He pushed back the desire to just stand under the water and washed quickly. He completed the rest of his ablutions and was reentering the bedroom just as Obi-Wan came through the door.

"First-meal will be here in about ten minutes," Obi-Wan said, his eyes narrowing as he appraised his naked and damp lover.

"Good, refresher's all yours," Qui-Gon replied, not hiding his own interest when Obi-Wan's naked body brushed against him as he passed. He suppressed the desire to swat his lover's ass and walked over to the dresser to get out his clothing. He had pulled on his linens and undertunic and was starting to tie the fastenings when the sight of Obi-Wan's present on the nightstand drew his attention. He held the tiketis in his palm, vague memories from a forgotten dream floating through his mind as he studied it. After a long moment, he came to a decision and headed back into the refresher to look for something to carry out his idea.

His entry caught Obi-Wan's attention and his apprentice called out, "Did you need something, Master?" his voice muffled by the sound of the water.

"I'm all set," Qui-Gon answered. Rifling through the drawers of the vanity, he found a roll of first aid tape and then moved back into the bedroom. He taped the tiketis against his skin in the hollow of his breastbone to test his vague theory and then put on the rest of his clothing. He was pulling on his boots when Obi-Wan came back into the bedroom. Brush and leather tie in hand, he walked back to the refresher to secure his hair into a thick braid rather than his traditional top knot while his padawan started getting dressed. Moving into the small kitchen, he started tea and accepted the meal delivery. He had everything set out on the table by the time Obi-Wan came into the room.

"I didn't realize how hungry I was until I started smelling the food," Obi-Wan remarked as he took a seat at the table. Qui-Gon filled their mugs with tea as Obi-Wan filled a plate and soon they were digging into the food with relish.

"Must have been all the exercise last night," Qui-Gon said between bites.

They shared sporadic small talk as they ate and when their plates were almost empty, Obi-Wan asked the all encompassing question. "So what did Master Jufa find in his examination?

Qui-Gon took a sip of his tea and then answered. "He pretty much confirmed the things that we already knew. The age reversal has slowed drastically but has not stopped. My skeletal system and musculature have reverted to a state more akin to a fit human male in his early twenties due to my exposure to the jeunsenotiaum. The only atypical thing Master Jufa found in my skeletal structure was that my joints seem to be softening, like they would in an adolescent right before a growth spurt. Most of my major organs have not undergone any substantial changes with the exception of my circulatory and endocrine systems." He took another sip of his tea and a deep breath before he continued. "The damage to my heart muscle is a bit more pronounced than it was in the last scan Healer Sarvai forwarded to him. He feels that most of that is the result of the episode I had at the tribunal yesterday, though he did say that my heart rhythm was now back within the normal range. Meneit is concerned that unless they can find a way to reverse the effects of the jeunsenotiaum, eventually the damage to my heart will become insurmountable, not to mention what would happen if my joints continued to soften." He ignored Obi-Wan's sharp intact of breath at those last words and added, "He has a few theories that he would like to explore and is confident that he and Feo will find a solution."

"That's all he had to say?" Obi-Wan asked.

"In a nutshell. Well, along with scolding me about taking care of myself and contacting him at the first sign on any changes. And I commed him this morning and he sees no problem in me attending the meeting with Odan," Qui-Gon said with a half smile. "I'm certain that he would be willing to share his more detailed findings with you, Obi-Wan. Science has never been my strong suit so there are probably questions you'd have asked that I'd never even think of. Feel free to ask any questions that will serve to alleviate your concerns."

"The only thing that would alleviate my concerns would be having you back to your aged self, my Master," Obi-Wan said, his attempt at a teasing tone falling a bit short. "Though I appreciate your candor and willingness to allow me access to the information."

They placed the remains of their meal on the delivery cart, washed out the mugs and the teapot and then grabbed their cloaks. "Are you up for another ride on Moytak's speeder bike or would you like me to call for a transport, Master?"

"The bike would be fine as long as we keep to the same stipulations as before," Qui-Gon replied.

"Duly noted, under one hundred kilometers an hour unless someone is shooting at us," Obi-Wan stated.

"What are your plans for the day, Obi-Wan?" Qui-Gon asked as they entered the hallway.

"Well, since I'm certain that Defense Minister Xiandoran would not take too kindly to my presence at your meeting, I think I'll head over to see Moytak after I drop you off and then maybe go over to the research center and see if there's anything I can do to help Master Jufa," Obi-Wan replied.

Relieved that Obi-Wan would not be sitting around dwelling on the possibilities, Qui-Gon allowed his approval to color his expression. "I'll comm you when our meeting is concluded and I can meet up with you." They stepped into the lift and when the doors slid closed behind them he rested his palm against his lover's cheek. "Soon, this will be behind us and we will go back to the Temple with our partnership stronger for the experience."

"I'll hold you to that, Qui-Gon," Obi-Wan replied, leaning into the hand pressed against his face.

When the lift doors reopened in the main lobby, emotions had been buried and both men were once again models of Jedi decorum. No longer caring about concealing his transformation, Qui-Gon waited at the edge of the cul-de-sac with his face exposed while Obi-Wan went into the parking garage to retrieve the bike.

It was only a couple minutes before Obi-Wan drove up and Qui-Gon took his seat on the back of the speeder bike. "Remember, under a hundred unless someone shoots at us," Qui-Gon quipped, though the revving of the bike's engine obliterated most of his comment.

The ride was completed in silence, basically out of necessity, since they would either have to yell or use the bond to communicate and be understood over the roar of the engine. Qui-Gon got a few strange looks as he disembarked in front of the Parliament Building but he ignored them and moved to stand near the front of the bike. "I'll catch up with you later." When Obi-Wan nodded, he added mentally, And try to relax. Maybe you should ask Moytak about making the rounds of the dance clubs tonight.

Only if you'll join me, especially since with your new youthful personage you'd fit right in, Obi-Wan retorted silently. Otherwise we'll have to think of some other ways to burn off our excess energy. His mental tone became a bit more serious as he added, Do not overexert yourself, my Master. Remember what happened at the tribunal yesterday. And comm Master Jufa if you start to feel any additional fluctuations.

Yes, Master. Love you, Qui-Gon replied, biting back a 'don't be a worrywart' comment as he turned and headed into the building. Obi-Wan's mental reply, Love you too and I wouldn't need to be a worrywart if you'd take care of yourself, came as he heard the bike engine rev up and the speeder bike roar down the street.

Hiding his smile, Qui-Gon entered the building to find one of Odan's private guards waiting for him inside the entryway. He accompanied the man, nodding politely at the receptionist who stared, wide-eyed and open-mouthed, at his changed appearance and then made his way to the Prime Minister's private lift.

Odan was standing in the open doorway of his office when Qui-Gon exited the lift, informed of his arrival by the guard, no doubt. "Thanks for coming, Qui-Gon," he said when the office door closed behind them. "How are you feeling?"

"About the same," Qui-Gon replied, not wanting to get into a detailed conversation about the subject. "Has Minister Xiandoran already been brought here?"

"He arrived accompanied by a plethora of Judicial Guards about ten minutes ago," Odan explained. "He and his barrister are currently waiting in the conference room we used yesterday. I have also acquired a transcriptionist from Magistrate Vekker's office so that any admissions he might make would be considered legally binding. "

"Good. Anything we need to discuss before we go in?" Qui-Gon asked.

"Not really. Feel free to jump in anytime you feel Xiandoran is being less than honest or if you think of any pertinent questions," Odan replied.

Qui-Gon nodded and Odan led the way out of his office to the conference room. The transcriptionist was waiting there for them and the guards stationed at the door bowed formally and escorted them all into the room.

Before the door had even reclosed behind them, Minister Xiandoran was bellowing in anger. "Who is the new Jedi and why are you allowing another underage person into the Parliament Building?" His barrister tried to stop the outburst by whispering something to him but Xiandoran ignored him and glared at Qui-Gon.

"You may want to heed your Barrister's instructions, Minister Xiandoran," Odan said. "As I am certain he has informed you, every word uttered in this meeting is being recorded and will be transcribed into a document and offered as evidence at your Tribunal."

"I have nothing to hide, Prime Minister," Xiandoran said vehemently. "And you still have not answered my question."

Qui-Gon approached the seated man, turning so that his face was fully visible, and spoke in a voice that could have frozen lava. "I'm stunned that you don't recognize the results of your own handiwork, Defense Minister. When you are declared guilty of treason against the Oliani government, maybe I should suggest that treatment with jeunsenotiaum be used as part of your rehabilitation. Given the opportunity to relive your youth, hopefully you would make more prudent decisions the second time around."

The voice and clearer view seemed to afford the recognition that first sight had not. "Master Jinn?" Xiandoran mumbled, his eyes opened wide in obvious shock.

"Yes, Defense Minister, " Odan replied harshly before Qui-Gon could. "A significantly younger Qui-Gon Jinn than the one who arrived on Oliani a few days ago, thanks to you and your cohorts."

"I did nothing to Master Jinn," Xiandoran argued, speaking again, it seemed, against the advice of his counsel. As he spoke, his face flushed in a combination of anger and anxiety.

"Maybe not you personally but I am fairly certain that although you may not have been advised of the specific method Major Arvid planned on using to take me out of the picture, you were fully aware of her decision to do so," Qui-Gon replied with deadly calm.

"Major Arvid had me completely taken in," Xiandoran declared. "She has been using her position as the head of Internal Security and my senior aide to undermine the peace between Oliani and Cerenti. I had nothing to do with it."

Odan spared a quick look at Qui-Gon and when the Jedi Master frowned, he turned back to the Defense Minister. "You may have been able to keep your true purpose hidden in the six years you have served in my Cabinet but I am no longer blind to your treachery, Xiandoran. You will be found guilty of treason and sentenced as a traitor to the State. The only result you can affect at this point is whether you take full responsibility for this entire debacle or whether the others involved will share in their portion of the blame."

With that comment, the questioning started in earnest. Odan referred to a datapad he had prepared beforehand, reviewing some of the details from the previous day's inquiry and bringing up the names of every individual that they even suspected could possibly have been involved in Xiandoran's plans. For the first couple of hours, the answers consisted of: "Not to my knowledge," or "I was unaware of that fact," or "The only contact I have had with said person was socially." Spikes of fear and uncertainty colored the Force during various moments, but Xiandoran admitted to nothing. It seemed the Defense Minister had been well schooled in both evasive parlance and in keeping his emotions and facial expressions in check and could do both well when he set his mind to it. From all appearances, the man would be a formidable opponent in games like Sabaac.

The first tiny breach came shortly before what would normally be the mid day meal break in an official proceeding. The Prime Minister was becoming increasingly frustrated with each evasion and declared firmly. "When you requested this meeting, Defense Minister, you said that you intended to be forthcoming and assist in the investigation. In the hours we have been sequestered in this room, you have skirted or sidestepped every question that would lead to the identification of any but the most minor of accomplices. I have more important things to attend to than listening to your doublespeak so maybe we should just consider this session ended."

Ser Hideaz, Xiandoran's barrister, addressed Odan directly for the first time. "If it would be acceptable, Prime Minister, I would like a moment alone with my client before a decision to end this meeting is made."

For a moment the Prime Minister looked like he might refuse the request so Qui-Gon made eye contact with Odan and nodded almost imperceptibly. Responding to the slight nudge, Odan replied, "Let's break for a three-quarter hour meal period, Barrister. I'll have a light meal sent up for you both and you can use the time to confer privately."

At the barrister's nod of reply, Odan motioned to the transcriptionist and she and Qui-Gon followed him into the hallway. He stopped briefly to inform the guards of the change in plans, directed the transcriptionist to the building's refectory and then proceeded with Qui-Gon to his office. It wasn't until the door of his office closed behind them that Odan asked the question that had been in his eyes for the last few minutes. "Do you really expect this break will lead to an increase in Xiandoran's cooperation?"

"I'm hoping that the Barrister will be able to convince the Defense Minister that it would be in his best interest to be more cooperative," Qui-Gon replied.

"Xiandoran is too stubborn and arrogant to take advice from someone, even someone that he's paying for the privilege," Odan snorted. Leaning against the corner of the desk, his hand hovering above the intercom button that would connect him to his assistant, he changed the subject. "One of the specialties of the refectory is catanid steak strips grilled with pepernas, served on crusty polenta bread with melted mosanei cheese. How does that sound for mid-meal?"

"Sounds good," Qui-Gon replied.

Odan pressed the button, asking his assistant to order the meal and then moved to sit on the sofa beside the Jedi. "How are you holding up, old friend?"

Qui-Gon did not miss the appraising look that accompanied the simple question and took a moment to do a quick Force evaluation of his physical state. "A little better, I think, more settled and less out of kilter. Or maybe my body has just adjusted to being young again." He was filled with a vague sense of deja vu and added more seriously, "As we age, most of us wish at some time or another that we could be young again and still have the benefit of our years of experience. I'm finding that experiencing the reality of that imagining does not quite live up to expectations."

The blunt observation seemed to take Odan by surprise and he remained silent for a long moment. When he finally spoke, his voice was heavy with anger.. "I am finding it extremely difficult to come to terms with the attack against you, my friend. As appalling as the original terrorist attacks Xiandoran and his cronies engineered were, their targets were mainly industrial locations where damage would be measured in economic upheaval. You and Obi-Wan came to Oliani at my personal behest and because of that Xiandoran marked you as a prime target. By injuring you, a governmental concern very quickly encompassed something much more personal. To know that this man who served by my side for six years would attack you because of our friendship has brought forth a rage within me the likes of which I have only felt once before ? in the hours after Kairylyn's attempted kidnapping. It will take a lot more than seeing Xiandoran and his cohorts brought to justice for me to extinguish the enmity and guilt I'm feeling."

Qui-Gon laid a comforting hand on Odan's shoulder as he admonished him gently. "Do not allow these feelings to consume you. As Jedi, we are often looked upon as a mechanism that will help disreputable individuals to advance their schemes. You are no more responsible for me being injured than you are for the sun shining or the flowers blooming. Concentrate your energy on exposing everyone responsible and seeing that they are brought to justice so that peace can again preside over Ambria. Don't waste breath on guilt that will only serve to bring you pain. I do not blame you for my situation and neither does Obi-Wan."

Odan nodded in reply but steered away from an actual response by asking another question. "I heard from Feo that the Healer from the Jedi Temple arrived last night. Has he evaluated you yet?"

"Briefly. Feo brought him by Moytak's townhouse for a bit last night," Qui-Gon explained. "I'm suppose to catch up with them at the Research Center when we are finished here."

With that comment and the arrival of the refectory worker with their meal, conversation shifted to lighter topics. The food was everything that Odan said it would be and they enjoyed it amid a bit of chatting about Odan's family.

When the requisite three-quarter hour had passed, they left the Prime Minister's office and headed back to the conference room. The transcriptionist was waiting for them beside the door and as they waited for the guard to open it, Odan remarked quietly, "Unless Xiandoran has reconsidered, this session will not go on for very long."

Much to both men's surprise, the Defense Minister was actually civil when they stepped into the room. It was apparent that the barrister had convinced his client that he needed to at least appear accommodating. As Odan began a new round of questions, Xiandoran's replies bloomed from one and two word non-answers to full sentences that actually provided information. By the time two hours had passed, he had revealed the names of three minor bureaucrats who had either been directly involved or who had been aware of the Defense Minister's connection to the terrorist activities and had remained silent.

When it finally became apparent that the Defense Minister would not be revealing any more pertinent information, at least today, Odan rose from his seat. "Thank you for the information, Minister Xiandoran. The guards will escort you back to your residence. If you remember anything further, please have your Barrister contact my office."

When Xiandoran nodded in reply, Odan motioned to the transcriptionist and she accompanied him and Qui-Gon out into the hallway. "Thank you for your assistance today, Mer Lindiat. After you have transcribed the information, it is imperative that you deliver the master tape and your written record directly into the hands of Magistrate Vekker himself."

"I understand, Prime Minister Shaadir," the woman replied. "I am well aware of the confidentiality of the information I've recorded and understand that my court oath encompasses today's deposition. I will complete the report and deliver it to the Magistrate before I end my work day."

"Thank you for your professionalism in this matter, Mer Lindiat," Odan said sincerely. "Your dedication to duty is greatly appreciated."

Smiling in return, the woman turned down the hallway in the direction of the judicial wing just as Odan and Qui-Gon started towards the Prime Minister's office. When the door to the room closed behind them, Odan asked, "Do you feel Xiandoran was being completely truthful?"

"The limited information he supplied was the truth but I'm convinced that he knows a lot more than he revealed," Qui-Gon replied. "Hopefully a few more days of confinement will make him a bit more pliable."

"If not, maybe one of the bureaucrats he identified today will decide to unburden themselves when they are confronted," Odan said. Before he could say anything else, the comm unit on his desk buzzed. "Yes?"

"A number of urgent calls came in while you were in your meeting," his assistant's voice came through the speaker. "Are you available to return any of them?"

Seeing the look of discomfort on his friend's face, Qui-Gon took the initiative. "I'll leave you to your duties. Obi-Wan must be wearing a path in Feo's carpet waiting for me to join him and Master Jufa at the Research Center."

"Thank you, old friend, for everything, "Odan replied. "Would you like me to arrange a transport for you?"

"The Research Center is only two kilometers away so I think I'll walk. The fresh air will be a pleasant change from the confines of the conference room," Qui-Gon insisted. "I'll speak with you later," he added as he opened the door. He had barely made it into the hallway when Odan called his assistant into the room and the door closed behind them.

Not really surprised by the shocked looks coming from the people who had seen him before his transformation, Qui-Gon ignored them as he rode the lift to the lobby and headed back out to the street. As he put distance between himself and the Parliament Building, he sensed the regard of the people around him shifting. Most citizens of Republic worlds were quick to recognize Jedi, so drawing attention was expected but Qui-Gon was perplexed by the negativity emanating from the people he passed. With each step he took, he increased his concentration and by the time he had walked a kilometer, he had come to the vague but bewildering conclusion that the respect he had been afforded by the majority of the Oliani people on both his missions here had been replaced with something more like contempt.

Feeling compelled to discover the reason for this unusual behavior, Qui-Gon looked for an unobtrusive way to spend some time studying the people more intently. He stopped at a street vendor's cart, purchased a cup of the moachi caf with cream and honey that Obi-Wan was so fond of and then settled onto a bench at the edge of a park as if to relax with his beverage.

His scant cover in place, Qui-Gon focused discreetly on the people who passed by him and after a few minutes had gone by, he was able to pick out a pattern. In most cases, the strongest feelings of contempt came from the older and more affluent individuals that walked past. No effort was made to cover the sneers of disdain if he made eye contact with any of them although most refused to do even that, dismissing his presence as they would a street beggar or someone else that they felt was totally beneath them. The younger or less affluent individuals were less likely to be overly rude but the friendly smiles and cordial 'good-days' he had become used to had deteriorated into weak smiles and vague nods.

It wasn't until a small group of university students walked past with warm smiles and friendly 'hellos' that everything fell into place with a rather resounding thud. Since this was the first time that he'd spent a substantial amount of time in public where he hadn't had the re-aging Force disguise in place, the people were reacting to the fact the Qui-Gon now appeared to be a youth in his very early twenties rather than a mature man in his middle fifties.

Watching for a few more minutes, Qui-Gon allowed his outer shields to thin a bit so that he could absorb the full spectrum of emotions from those around him and he was shocked at how distressing it was. Here was a society of highly intelligent people who were equating a person's entire worth on the number of years that had passed since their birth and although he had understood the concept intellectually, experiencing it emotionally brought a clarity to the situation that he had previously sorely lacked. He now understood first-hand what Obi-Wan had experienced as a seventeen year old during their first visit here, not to mention his treatment on this visit, and why his padawan had reacted so strongly to the thought of having to return here while he would still be considered a child.

As he rose from the bench, disposed of his cup and resumed his walk, two things weighed heavily on Qui-Gon's mind. First and foremost was the fact that he owed Obi-Wan an apology. He had been quick to dismiss his apprentice's feelings about the way he was treated by the Oliani and had not even asked Obi-Wan to try to explain. The second was more complex. While age segregation may have served a purpose during Ambria's early cultural development, at this juncture in its civilization it seemed more of a hindrance than a benefit. Thinking about the group that Moytak had assembled to investigate the attack, Qui-Gon wondered how much skill was lost or disregarded due to this archaic thinking? He would have to discuss this with Odan after things in Ambria had returned to normal and see if they could find a way to begin to bend this inflexible view.

He was so deep in thought on those subjects that the sight of the research center building looming before him came as a surprise. Pushing open the transparisteel door, Qui-Gon approached the reception desk and said, "Good afternoon. Could you please direct me to Healer Yagil's office?"

"Good day, Ser Jedi," the dark haired man said politely as he motioned another man over to the desk. "Healer Yagil is in the laboratory area. Tedan will escort you."

"Thank you," Qui-Gon replied before following the man to the lift. It took only a few minutes for them to take the lift to the restricted section and enter the lab area.

As expected, Obi-Wan was engaged in a cross between pacing and assisting Master Jufa and Feo. Qui-Gon had barely made it a few steps inside the door before Obi-Wan was walking quickly towards him.

The concerned look was not quite hidden as Obi-Wan asked, "How did your conference with the Prime Minister go?"

Knowing that innocent question hid the more urgent, 'how are you feeling', Qui-Gon softly answered his padawan's unvoiced question first. "Surprising, I'm feeling somewhat better than I have been and I didn't feel any fluctuations at all today. The meeting with the Defense Minister offered some additional information but not as much as Minister Shaadir would have liked.." He was sure that Obi-Wan could sense that there was more on his mind but he sidestepped that discussion by looking in the direction of the two healers deep in conversation over a micro-scanner at the lab table and asking in a more normal voice, "Any progress with the research?"

"Honestly, I'm not sure," Obi-Wan admitted with a self-depreciating chuckle.. "They've been trading theories faster than I could follow, though I have to admit that most of what I did catch was way over my head anyway."

Master Jufa must have heard them because he looked up from the scanner and said, "Glad you finally made it, Qui-Gon. Head into that small room over there and get undressed. I have a few scans I'd like to run."

"No 'good afternoon', Meneit? No 'how are you feeling, today'?" Qui-Gon grumbled. "I may look like a senior padawan but last I knew I still held the rank of master."

"Oh, stop your whining and go get naked, Qui-Gon," Meneit said with a wry smile.

Struggling to stifle his laugh, Obi-Wan interjected in a hushed tone, "I'd be more than willing to offer my assistance if you need it, Master."

Apparently the tone wasn't quite soft enough because Meneit countered, "Don't even think about it, Padawan Kenobi. I would like to do those scans in the next few minutes not an hour from now."

Never knew that healers were such spoil sports, Obi-Wan quipped mentally to his Master even though he schooled his expression to seriousness.

You can undress me later, Qui-Gon sent. He slipped his hand under his tunics, pulled off the stone he had taped to his chest and slid it into the pocket of his robe as he started toward the door Meneit had indicated.

I'll hold you to that, Obi-Wan replied.

"Stop the mental chatter and get going," Meneit commanded, his smirk taking the bite out of his tone. "I have better things to do than wait for you, Jinn."

"Yes, Master," Qui-Gon snipped as he disappeared through the door though no one needed to see his face to picture his expression and with a half hearted sigh the Master Healer followed a moment later.

The fifteen minutes Qui-Gon and Master Jufa were in the small exam room felt like an eternity and Obi-Wan shifted between pacing the room and asking Feo innumerable questions about their progress. His concern must have been readily apparent because as soon as the Master Healer emerged from the room, he came over to him.

"Relax, Obi-Wan. He is no worse and, based on what I could see with these general scans, he seems to be stabilizing," Meneit assured. "As soon as he gets dressed, I'll go over the findings with both of you and we can decide where to go from here."

The furrow between his brows smoothed out a bit as Obi-Wan nodded and walked over to the warmer. Picking up the teapot they had been continually refilling all day, he poured out the contents into two mugs and started a new pot brewing. By the time he had grabbed the mugs and was settling on the couch, Qui-Gon emerged from the exam room. His Master moved almost instinctively to sit beside him and he pressed one of the mugs into Qui-Gon's hands.

"Well what's the verdict?" Qui-Gon said after taking a long swallow of his tea.

"It appears, at least with the general exam I could do, that your body is stabilizing," Meneit explained. "The problem areas we discussed last night have not deteriorated any further. While the optimist in me would like to believe that your system has managed to begin negating the effects of the jeunsenotiaum, intellect and our research tell me that would go against the natural properties of the drug." He gave Qui-Gon an appraising look before asking, "Have you done anything differently today? Made even a minor change in your routine that could account for the upturn?"

Qui-Gon started to shake his head but stopped suddenly as if something had just occurred to him. He reached into his pocket and pulled out the tiketis, with the strips of first aid tape still attached. Securing the stone back into the hollow of his breastbone, he explained. "After my shower this morning, I taped the stone Obi-Wan gave me against my skin. I was hoping that the tiketis would afford me the same calming effect and energizing properties during the meeting with Minister Xiandoran that it had during my meditations."

"Feo, could you?" Meneit began somewhat excitedly but the Oliani researcher interrupted him.

"All ready on it," Feo replied, moving quickly to the computer terminal on the corner of the lab table.

Master Jufa joined him almost immediately and the two men stood glued to the display screen for long minutes, trading comments that to the other Jedi were just blocks of technical mumbo jumbo. Finally, Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon traded mildly annoyed looks and Qui-Gon asked, "Are you planning to share this seemingly momentous discovery with your patient, Meneit?"

Somewhat chagrinned, Meneit looked back at the other Jedi and motioned them over. "Come over here. It will be easier to show you."

Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon rose from the sofa and joined the healers at the lab table. Meneit pointed to a set of graphs on the screen and began talking animatedly. "These are the scans I took of your stone after each one of us held it last night. The purple section of the bars denotes the percentage of dynafermicite rising from the core to coat the surface of the tiketis. Notice that the scan done after Qui-Gon held the tiketis for only 3 minutes shows that the density of the dynafermicite coating the surface increased from two percent in the stone's dormant state to ninety-five percent."

"So what does that mean, exactly?" Obi-Wan asked before his master could.

Feo answered the question. "Dynafermicite is a rare mineral that is easily absorbed through human skin. It's used as a holistic medicine on some worlds based on claims that it helps the body's natural immunities but those claims have never been substantiated. It's basically been classified as a harmless chemical that has very little intrinsic value."

Meneit must have recognized the matching looks of impatience on Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan's faces because he expounded a bit. "Qui-Gon, if our theory holds true, it appears that the dynafermicite is interacting with your Force aura somehow and together they are beginning to negate the effects of the jeunsenotiaum on your system."

"Could it be used to negate the effects of the drug completely?" Obi-Wan asked, real hope shining in his eyes for the first time in days.

"Possibly, but we would need to proceed very slowly and under controlled conditions since this is an untried area," Meneit hedged.

Qui-Gon intertwined his fingers with Obi-Wan's and asked, "And your professional opinion on the probability that this is a viable treatment, at least to some degree?"

The Jedi Healer smiled at both men in an obvious attempt to reassure them. "Today's scans show that contact with the dynafermicite is affecting you on at least a minimal level. How much more we can expect will depend on whether we can devise a delivery method that can introduce a substantial amount of the mineral into your system without any major side effects."

"So, where do we go from here?" Qui-Gon asked.

"Feo and I need to find a source for the mineral and then experiment with substances that we can infuse with dynafermicite and apply to your skin in some fashion," Meneit explained.

"We have about twenty milligrams of dynafermicite in the chemical storage unit," Feo said. "I'll send out a query to the other research facilities on planet to see how much we can pull together."

"Is it an expensive substance to purchase?" Qui-Gon asked.

"Not really, though the final cost will depend on the quantities that we need," Feo replied.

A furrow appeared between Qui-Gon's eyes as he considered that. "We'll have to contact the Temple to set up a credit line. For the dynafermicite and whatever other supplies that we may need."

"The Prime Minister has already instructed me, in no uncertain terms, that any costs incurred in your treatment will be covered by the Oliani government," Feo countered. "And, Master Qui-Gon, I have no intention of disobeying a direct order from my father-in-law," he added with a smile.

"No, I expect that would cause you all manner of aggravation, Feo," Obi-Wan interjected. "With both Minister Shaadir and Mirith."

The intent expression on Qui-Gon's face as he nodded his agreement made it apparent that he was thinking about what Feo and Meneit had proposed so Obi-Wan wasn't surprised when the questions started coming fast and furious. "How does the substance appear in its natural state? How complex is the process to break it down into something that can be infused into a medium? What will you use to facilitate the absorption of dynafermicite into my system, Meneit?"

"Wondered how long it would take to get that analytical mind of yours working, old buddy," Meneit laughed. "It occurs naturally as rock as you may have guessed. It can be milled into a powder that could either be dusted onto the skin or mixed into a medicinal balm that could be applied to the skin.. The balm would probably be the best way as it could be rubbed into your skin to get the maximum absorption. We would have to experiment with percentages so that the reversal of the changes occurs at a much slower rate than the initial changes but quickly enough to stop the irregularities that are occurring in your body."

"How much dynafermicite would you need to obtain?" Obi-Wan asked.

"I don't know at this point," Meneit replied. "It will depend on how many times the treatment needs to be repeated to fully counteract the reverse aging and how much of the substance we mix in. Since the ointment would be absorbed into the skin and we would want to apply it to as much of your skin as possible for maximum effect, a substantial quantity of the mixture would need to be created each time."

It was obvious by Master Jufa's tone that he thought this might create an issue so Obi-Wan contemplated ways around that. Suddenly, a thought occurred to him. "What about if the dynafermicite was mixed into bacta in a tank rather than in some type of skin lotion?" Obi-Wan asked the two healers. "A larger quantity would be needed to start off with but the initial mixture could be reused until the treatment is completed."

Obi-Wan was not surprised to see Qui-Gon's mouth twist into a grimace as he made the suggestion. His master found tank immersion barely bearable when it was the only acceptable treatment for an injury. To agree to a prolonged regiment when it wasn't the only alternative available would require much persuasion on Master Jufa's part.

"That could work," Feo replied. "We would probably have to add small amounts of dynafermicite to the tank after each treatment depending on how much was actually absorbed into Qui-Gon's system but full immersion in bacta rather than topical application would add a level of healing that could augment the process. It could be especially helpful to counter the cardiac deterioration."

"Meneit, the thought of spending innumerable hours in a tank is not very appealing," Qui-Gon interrupted with a scowl. "Wouldn't it be just as affective to apply the dynafermicite/bacta mixture to my skin and allow it to be absorbed that way?"

"At this point we have no idea how long it will take to reverse the changes you've undergone," Meneit replied, turning to face Qui-Gon. "My educated opinion is that both ways could work but I think that immersion could cut the overall treatment time significantly. With the current state of your cardio-vascular system and the breakdown of the cartilage in your joints, it would seem prudent to go to select the alternative that will work more quickly." A smile curved Meneit's lips as he added, "Look at it this way. More time in the tank could eventually mean less time in my clutches."

"Don't think it's worth the trade off," Qui-Gon grumbled.

Meneit ignored the comment and turned back to Feo. "The hard part will be finding a large enough quantity of available dynafermicite to create the proper percentage inside a bacta tank."

Feo typed in a series of queries on his keyboard and smiled as one particular bit of information appeared on the screen. "I don't think that'll be a problem. It seems that dynafermicite is found in abundance on Zeltros. A midsize ship should be able to make the journey there and back in less than a standard day."

"Captain Embree and the 'Albatross' have been cooling their heels in the docking bay since we arrived," Obi-Wan remarked. "Now that the situation with the terrorists is almost resolved, there's no reason why they couldn't head out to Zeltros for the pickup."

"True. Since word of the Tribunal of Inquiry against Minister Xiandoran and Major Arvid has made the newsfeeds, I expect the rest of those involved will quickly go to ground," Qui-Gon agreed.

Master Jufa browsed through the group of screens Feo had up on his monitor and then turned back to Qui-Gon. "Why don't you two head back to your quarters so you can get some rest. I'd like to do a few computer mock ups while Feo sees how much dynafermicite he can get his hands on by tomorrow morning."

"Are you sure there is nothing we can do to help with that?" Obi-Wan asked.

"Not really. Go home and make sure your Master gets some rest," Meneit said with a half smile. "I expect that the next few days will be difficult. I'll contact Healer Sarvai about setting up a treatment room at the Medical Facility. Qui-Gon, I'd like you to plan on checking in for the duration in the morning."

Lips curving into a deep frown, Qui-Gon grumbled, "Is that really necessary, Meneit?"

"Yes, it is. We are in uncharted territory here and I want to have everything I could possibly need at hand before we begin treatment," Meneit insisted. "Though, maybe it would be best to get you settled there now to be ready come morning."

That comment seemed to galvanize Qui-Gon and he pulled on Obi-Wan's tunic sleeve as he started towards the door. "Tomorrow morning will be soon enough. Comm me with the details in the morning." Without waiting for a reply, he continued through the door.

As the door slid closed behind them, the snicker Obi-Wan had been fighting broke loose. "The last time I saw you move that fast, Master Yoda was looking for you for crèche duty with the five year olds." The raised eyebrow and deep scowl Qui-Gon turned on him was enough of a warning for him to change to a safer subject. "Do you want to stop somewhere for late-meal or just order in something when we get back to the townhouse?"

"I'd prefer to just order in, if you don't mind," Qui-Gon replied as they entered the lift. "I want to take advantage of the fact that I'm feeling better and spend a relaxing evening with my lover before I submit myself for Meneit's torture."

"Won't get any argument from me there," Obi-Wan said as the door closed behind them. He stepped closer and kissed Qui-Gon gently but had to end the kiss as the lift doors opened.

"I'll expect more of that when we get to the townhouse," Qui-Gon announced as they crossed the lobby.

"You can count on it," Obi-Wan agreed. The two of them walked side by side to the parking area to pick up Moytak's speeder bike and within minutes they were enroute back to the townhouse.

While Obi-Wan parked the speeder bike, Qui-Gon stopped in the nearby restaurant to order a meal to be delivered to their rooms. The menu had a number of their favorites on it and it was easy to make his selections. He even added a bottle of Alderaanian wine and an assortment of dessert items that he hoped they could share somewhat intimately later. He was waiting by the door to the lift when Obi-Wan entered the lobby.

"Did you order food?" Obi-Wan asked as he approached.

"It'll be delivered in about thirty minutes," Qui-Gon said as they stepped onto the lift to reach the townhouse.

They entered Moytak's apartment and Obi-Wan hung both of their cloaks. As he turned back around Qui-Gon pressed him up against the wall, kissing him deeply and rocking against him. He was half hard and panting by the time Qui-Gon pulled back. "Don't start anything you can't finish," he grumbled as he reached down to adjust himself.

"I have plenty of time to finish what I'm starting," Qui-Gon said as he replaced the hand on Obi-Wan's groin with his own. "At least to complete phase one of this evening's plans for taking advantage of my newly rejuvenated libido."

"And exactly what do you have planned that you expect to finish before our meal is delivered?" Obi-Wan queried skeptically.

"Remember a few cycles ago when we were sharing our memories of our youthful excursions into Padawans' Promenade?" Qui-Gon asked. Although still obviously confused, Obi-Wan nodded so he continued. "Since that time I've found myself rather wistfully regretting that we never had the opportunity to experience that together and must admit I've been fantasizing about what it would have been like."

That comment piqued Obi-Wan's interest and his breathing seemed to speed up a bit as he prodded, "And how exactly did you envision these fantasy encounters?"

Gently stroking the cloth covered flesh under his fingers, Qui-Gon sought to explain. "Well, I was always a couple of years older than you in my fantasies, probably because I was shy as a teenager and didn't have the courage to venture into the padawan's meat market until I was twenty. Anyway, I was twenty and you were just barely eighteen. You went to the club every night that you were free and I spent the first few nights I was there just watching you. You would show up with your standard group of friends - Garen, Bant, Siri, Reeft and the rest - but you never went off with any of them.. You'd have a few drinks at the bar between trips onto the dance floor and when you found a person that interested you, you'd guide them off into one of the private corners. In a matter of minutes, you'd be leaning against the wall, your leggings around your knees and the night's conquest would be kneeling in front of you sucking you off. "

"So all you did in these fantasies was watch me?" Obi-Wan asked hoarsely.

Qui-Gon could feel the column of flesh under his fingers hardening, so he smiled provocatively as he continued his tale. "At first, but only because I was taking my time planning out my conquest. Finally a few days later, when all your friends were either on the dance floor or in private corners of their own, I made my move. I had made an arrangement with the bartender ahead of time to have two Selonian Spears ready and to place them on the bar top behind me as I approached you. My pick up line was rather lame - 'Can I buy you a drink' - but you rewarded me with a peal of bright laughter when I brought my hand out from behind my back when you nodded and placed a glass with your drink of choice quickly into your hand." He pressed his hand down on his lover's now fully erect penis as he admitted, "The fantasy blurs at this point since I never bothered to work out exactly how I would convince you to share more than a drink with me but eventually we would end up in one of those secluded corners with you pressed against the wall and me on my knees in front of you." He made a sweeping motion with his free hand to indicate their current surroundings and said, "I know it's not the Promenade but I was hoping you might be willing to indulge me in a recreation in these meager surroundings."

"It would be my pleasure to indulge you, love," Obi-Wan replied, though his rapid breathing detracted a bit from his attempt at stoic formality.

Looking down at the dark spot that had appeared under his hand, Qui-Gon licked his lips hungrily as he said, "And from all appearances, I think the fifteen minutes we have left before our meal arrives will be more than enough time for me to bring things to a head, so to speak."

Dropping easily into the role he had described, Qui-Gon walked over to Moytak's small bar, grabbing two small glasses and an exotic looking bottle. After filling the glasses with the deep green liquor, he returned to where Obi-Wan was leaning against the wall and queried, "Can I buy you a drink?"

Eyes sparkling with amusement, Obi-Wan took the proffered glass and brought it almost to his lips. "Only a drink?"

"At least for starters," Qui-Gon responded before swallowing the contents of his glass in a quick motion meant to convey nervousness.

Obi-Wan tossed back his drink, used the Force to cushion the glass when he flipped it onto the table and ran one hand down the front of Qui-Gon's body.. "Don't think I haven't noticed you watching me these past few nights. So tell me, Padawan Jinn, what exactly are you looking for?"

"As much as you're willing to give me," Qui-Gon replied. His empty glass dropped to the floor as his hand shifted to duplicate Obi-Wan's motions until it rested over the bulge in his apprentice's leggings. "Suck you or fuck you, unless you'd rather suck or fuck me." He squeezed the hardening flesh beneath his fingers. "So, Padawan Kenobi, what'll it be?"

"What if I want both?" Obi-Wan countered with a chuckle.

Obi-Wan's chuckle morphed into a moan as Qui-Gon made the decision for him and dropped to his knees, pulling his lover's leggings and linens down as he went. He steadied the erect shaft with one hand and licked teasingly at the fluid pooled at the tip, feeling the tension in Obi-Wan's thighs as he pressed back against the wall to steady himself. When he had lapped it all up, he looked up at his lover. "If I'm remembering correctly, you admitted to being pretty vocal during those youthful encounters so I want to hear your pleasure as I bring you off."

A deep blush rose on Obi-Wan's cheeks but his desires seemed to override his embarrassment and he agreed with a self-deprecating chuckle. "You may be sorry."

"I doubt it," Qui-Gon quipped before turning his full attention on the needy shaft before him. He started slowly, running his tongue along the length in long swipes as his other hand cupped the heavy sack below. A few moans filled the air but he still had not drawn forth the words he so longed to hear. After a minute or two, he intermixed licks and sucks, drawing only the darkened head between his lips. When he pressed on the sensitive spot under the head with his tongue, the first burst of words echoed above him.

"Yes, that's it, right there," Obi-Wan mumbled after a long moan. He pulled one hand from where it was pressed against the wall and tangled his fingers into the thick mass of Qui-Gon's hair.

Taking the words and the hand on his head as an indication he was on the right track, Qui-Gon slipped another inch of Obi-Wan's penis into his mouth and began sucking in earnest.

"Oh yeah, so good, gods," Obi-Wan repeated over and over, in a variety of patterns.

By the time Qui-Gon had completely swallowed the shaft before him, the nonsensical ramblings above him were almost continual. He was finding Obi-Wan's narrative even more arousing than he had imagined and that combined with the strong fingers tangled in his hair had him lost in the fantasy of pleasuring the beautiful padawan before him.

"Almostsoclosedon'tstopplease," came out in a rush of breath just as the shaft in his mouth thickened and the bitter fluid spurted down his throat. Qui-Gon felt Obi-Wan's knees buckle and used the Force to hold his lover on his feet as the shuddering climax engulfed him. When the tremors finally abated and he had swallowed the last few dribbles of semen, Qui-Gon loosened his Force hold and allowed Obi-Wan to collapse into his arms. His own hard shaft was constricted uncomfortably within his leggings but he ignored it as he soothed the man in his arms.

"I think we should indulge in recreating your fantasies more often," Obi-Wan stammered when he was finally able to speak.

"I have a number of fantasies we could recreate tonight, not to mention a number of favorite positions we could draw on," Qui-Gon whispered into the ear under his lips.

"Master Jufa said you were suppose to rest," Obi-Wan contested somewhat meekly.

"I can rest during the time I'm imprisoned in the medical center," Qui-Gon grumped as he pulled back to look into Obi-Wan's eyes. His eyes darkened with lust as he added, "Tonight I plan on seeing just how far this newly rejuvenated body will take me. I managed to come four times in one night back in my youth and I plan on attempting to match or break that record."

"You managed to bring me off four times in one night less than three cycles ago," Obi-Wan countered with a knowing smirk.

"The benefit of years of experience, my Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon declared.

"We'll just have to see if you've taught me enough to return the favor," Obi-Wan quipped as he reached for the bulge in Qui-Gon's leggings. A knock sounded at the door before he could even get them unlaced. "I guess that's our meal. Looks like my reciprocation will have to be delayed for a little while."

Qui-Gon shifted Obi-Wan until he was seated on the floor and then rose to his feet. "You'd better get yourself put back together unless we want a new set of rumors being circulated about the Jedi."

Ignoring Obi-Wan's scoff of "they're only rumors if they're not true," Qui-Gon walked to the door, delaying opening it until Obi-Wan had risen to his feet and pulled up his leggings.

The staff member who had delivered their belongings with Mercer two night before entered with a friendly smile. Moving briskly to the table, he arranged everything for the two men before opening the wine and placing it in the ice bucket. "If you think of anything else you want or need, just call down and I'll bring it up for you. You can leave the cart in the hallway after you've finished your meal. I'll collect it later."

"Thank you, Ser. Your kindness is greatly appreciated," Qui-Gon said as the man retraced his path to the door.

"It is my duty and my pleasure to see to both your needs, Ser Jedi," the man said with a bow as he exited the room.

"What did you order? Smells wonderful," Obi-Wan said as he made his way to the table.

"Grilled caponi fillets with ronalo sauce, polienta noodles, lenata root and assorted greens with honey dressing," Qui-Gon said as he pulled the wine bottle from the ice bucket. He filled both glasses as he motioned to Obi-Wan. "Sit. Let's take advantage of the fact that we have time to share a leisurely meal. There'll be plenty of time for dessert later."

"There'd better be," Obi-Wan replied as he took his seat and began digging into his salad. After a moment he stopped and looked at Qui-Gon as if something had just occurred to him. "Did something else happen while you were with Minister Shaadir this afternoon?" he queried. "You seemed to be deep in thought about something when you arrived at the Research Center."

Qui-Gon put down his fork, placed his hand on Obi-Wan's arm and looked intently at his padawan. "I owe you an apology, Obi-Wan."

"An apology? For what?" Obi-Wan interrupted.

"I should have been more sensitive to your feelings about your treatment during our first mission to Oliani and your reservations about returning here.." When Obi-Wan's look of confusion shifted to one of curiosity, Qui-Gon continued. "While I was walking over from Odan's office, I found myself subjected to some rather discourteous reactions by a number of the people I passed. After a while, I realized that this less than polite treatment was due to the fact that I now look like I'm well below the Ambrian age of majority. It is easy to consider having your worth judged by your age when you are doing so in the abstract but much more difficult when you are dealing with the reality of that prejudice. The strong sense of disdain that emanated from them was extremely disheartening." He slid his hand down until he could entwine their fingers and squeezed gently. "It was unfair of me to dismiss your feelings so callously. You have never been one to complain about minor inconveniences so the fact that your reaction was that strong seven years later should have been more than enough for me."

"I should have made more of an effort to explain, "Obi-Wan replied.

"If I was truly listening, you wouldn't have had to," Qui-Gon countered. "I am truly sorry, Padawan."

Eyes alight with emotion, Obi-Wan said, "You are more than forgiven, Master.. And thank you for caring enough to tell me."

With Obi-Wan's acceptance, the tenor of the conversation shifted. They kept to neutral topics while they enjoyed the rest of their meal, with the exception of the random suggestive comments that one or the other tossed out every few minutes. When the comments didn't have enough of an effect, the teasing took on a more physical tone. Obi-Wan allowed the sauce from his caponi to run down his fingers, then licked them clean with exaggerated slowness. Qui-Gon matched him tit for tat, picking up the spears of lenata root with his fingers and sucking them sensually into his mouth.

By the time their plates were empty and they began stacking the dishes on the cart, it was obvious that they were both hard and more than ready to move on to more important things.

Qui-Gon moved the wine bottle, glasses and dessert items to the small table in the common room and then settled on the couch as Obi-Wan pushed the cart into the hallway. He was sipping his wine when Obi-Wan came back through the door and stalked over to him. Before the younger man could initiate anything, he grabbed Obi-Wan's tunics and pulled him down to straddle his lap.

"Hey, I was getting ready to do something here," Obi-Wan complained even as he snuggled his butt against Qui-Gon's hard shaft.

"In a minute. First I want to feed you some dessert," Qui-Gon replied as he reached for a plump chocolate-coated berry from the tray.

Obi-Wan took the offering, sucking the fruit and Qui-Gon's fingers into his mouth. He nipped playfully at the digits as he chewed the fruit only releasing them after he swallowed the berry. "I had planned on having something a bit creamier for dessert," he whispered huskily. "That is, unless you have some objection to that plan."

Qui-Gon ran his fingertip through the vanilla icing on one of the small cakes and brought it to Obi-Wan's lips as he replied. "No objection, here. In fact, I was looking forward to having the opportunity to come while you pleasure me with your mouth since I don't get to come that way very often."

A look of guilt sprung up on Obi-Wan's face as Qui-Gon spoke and he stammered out an apology. "I'm sorry. I guess I've been pretty selfish in that regard. But since we don't normally get a second opportunity on any given night, I want you to come when you're inside me or when I'm inside you."

"Don't apologize. I feel the same way," Qui-Gon admitted. "If you recall, I've always stopped you before I could come for just that reason. But I don't expect that'll be an issue tonight."

"Good," Obi-Wan said as he picked up a chocolate square from the dessert tray and brought it to Qui-Gon's lips. "Shall I undress you first or do you have any other fantasies you'd like to indulge in?"

Obi-Wan's words sent a wave of lust through Qui-Gon and he arched his hips to press his erection against his lover's ass as he took Obi-Wan's lips in a demanding kiss.

The moment the kiss ended, Obi-Wan slid to his knees between Qui-Gon's legs.. He ran his palms up his lover's cloth-covered thighs and looked up at him hungrily. "Like this? Me fully dressed and you with your leggings unlaced just enough for me to reach your cock?"

Aroused almost beyond speech by Obi-Wan's provocative actions and words, Qui-Gon finally managed to nod and croak out, "yes."

As soon as the word was spoken, Obi-Wan's fingers started to work on the laces of Qui-Gon's leggings. In barely a minute, he had them unlaced and opened enough pulled the erect penis from within the cloth and wrapped his fingers around it. He indulged in a couple of gentle strokes before he leaned forward, licked the fluid from the tip and then pulled the reddened head between his lips. After a few light sucks, he released it and looked up at his lover. "Talk to me. Tell me what you want?"

"Your mouth on me, sucking and licking until I feel like you're going to suck my brains out through my cock," Qui-Gon growled, not surprised when Obi-Wan's eyebrows rose in apparent shock at his crass choice of words.

"Your wish is my command, oh Master mine," Obi-Wan quipped and then set out to do just that.

Qui-Gon couldn't help but moan as he was swallowed to the root and Obi-Wan began using the talents he'd been perfecting since his younger days, tongue and lips working him expertly. The combination of the sensations engulfing him and the erotic sight of his lover fully clothed between his spread legs had him so turned on he could barely breathe and his moans broke free more regularly.

Obi-Wan knew every sensitive spot and managed to run his tongue along at least one on each pass. Watching as the red-gold head bobbed up and down, he grabbed the braid trailing over his thigh and wrapped it around his fingers, needing some form of contact besides the mouth on his cock. Soon, he was trembling and crying out. "Sweet gods, Obi-Wan. Please, I need?" His words trailed off and his eyes closed as the suction around his penis increased and he was swallowed even deeper. Obi-Wan's throat rippled around him and he exploded, his orgasm seeming to come from the soles of his feet. The small part of his brain that could still function was thankful he was sitting or he would have fallen on his ass.

When Qui-Gon finally managed to force his eyes open, the braid was still wrapped in his fingers and Obi-Wan was looking smugly up at him. "Was my performance satisfactory, Master?"

"Exceptional. Though I may have over estimated my recuperative powers since I feel like you melted my bones along with my brain," Qui-Gon replied with a weak smile.

The smug look on Obi-Wan's face got even smugger. "I'm certain I can find some ways to revive your interest." He dropped a kiss to the tip of the now flaccid penis and added, "After a short rest of course. How about I get you undressed and we can snuggle on the couch and share the desserts you ordered?"

"That's an offer no sane man would even think of refusing," Qui-Gon said as he struggled to sit up straight.

Obi-Wan shifted onto his haunches and began working on the buckles of his master's boots. When he finished, he pulled them off and set them aside before sitting down on the floor and removing his own. That done, he made a side trip into the bedroom, returning with a tube of lube, a couple of towels and a soft fleece blanket he had pulled from the bed. Setting the items on the table, he pulled Qui-Gon to his feet. It was short work to strip the man completely and push him back to sit on the couch. After taking a few minutes to strip off his own clothes, he sat down next to Qui-Gon, snuggled in and draped the fleece throw over them.

They just sat there for a time, wrapped in the comfort of each other's presence with Obi-Wan's head resting against Qui-Gon's shoulder and one of Obi-Wan's hands gently stroking the tiketis still taped to Qui-Gon's chest.

When he finally had the energy to move, Qui-Gon lifted one of the wine glasses from the table and took a long sip before passing it to Obi-Wan. When he placed the glass back on the table, he grabbed the dessert tray. Balancing it on his lap, he selected a berry pastry and fed the triangular puff to Obi-Wan.

They spent the next hour or so feeding each other morsels from the dessert tray between kisses and teasing touches. At one point, Obi-Wan melted a chocolate square between his fingers and smeared it over Qui-Gon's nipples. After moving the dessert tray back to the table, he tossed the blanket to the floor, straddled his lover's lap and took an inordinately long time licking away every trace. He repeated the process with the berry filling from one of the pastries and by the time he had finished there was no doubt that Qui-Gon had fully recuperated from their earlier activity.

Arching his hips so that his shaft pushed up against his lover's, Qui-Gon whispered huskily, "I guess I shouldn't have doubted your ability to revive me."

Obi-Wan reached down, wrapped his fingers around Qui-Gon's cock and stroked slowly as he countered, "No, you shouldn't have, but more important than that is what do you plan on doing now? Do you have any more fantasies that you'd like to act out?"

"I don't know if it can be precisely characterized as a fantasy but I've found myself imagining what it would be like to bend you over this couch and listen to your moans and pleas as I fuck you senseless. I want to drag it out until you're barely capable of speech but I want you to keep from coming so you can do the same to me after I've come inside you," Qui-Gon said, his eyes darkening with lust.

After one last slow stroke, Obi-Wan rose from Qui-Gon's lap, picked up the tube of lube he had placed on the table earlier and growled, "So what are you waiting for?" Spreading a towel over the fabric, he knelt on the other side of the couch, held up the lube and added, "Well?"

Qui-Gon uncapped the tube in Obi-Wan's hand, raked a heated gazed over his naked ass and ordered, "Prepare yourself."

A sound that was half growl and half moan escaped from Obi-Wan as he coated his fingers. Locking his gaze with Qui-Gon's, he spread his legs a bit to give his lover a better view and slid two fingers slowly into his body. Even though he wanted nothing more than to have Qui-Gon inside him this very second, he drew out the process, exaggerating every stroke to give Qui-Gon the best show. When he heard Qui-Gon groan, he knew he had drawn it out long enough. He smoothed some lube on his lover's cock then shifted so that his arms were braced against the back of the couch.

Qui-Gon was quick to accept the silent invitation, rising off the couch and moving into position behind Obi-Wan. He smiled as he noticed the height of the couch adjusted for their difference in stature and created the perfect angle. Leaning forward, he nipped none too gently on the skin of his lover's shoulder, moving away from the sensitive spot only after he had drawn a visible bruise to the surface. Sliding his mouth to the nearest ear, he whispered huskily, "Are you ready for me? Ready to have me slide my cock deep inside you?"

"Yes, I want you inside me now," Obi-Wan moaned in reply.

Pressing just the tip of a finger into Obi-Wan's slick opening, Qui-Gon prodded. "Are you sure? You don't sound very convincing. Tell me how much you want me."

Shifting back to try to force the digit into his body, Obi-Wan complained, "I want you in me now, damn you. Forget the talking and fuck me already."

"Oh I have no intention of forgetting the talking," Qui-Gon chuckled as he slipped his finger deeper. "I want to hear your pleasure, see your pleasure, feel your pleasure as I move inside you."

"That'll happen as soon as you put your cock inside me," Obi-Wan urged, green eyes blazing as he looked over his shoulder at his lover.

Removing his finger and placing one hand on Obi-Wan's hip, Qui-Gon steadied his penis with the other and slowly slid into the tight heat of Obi-Wan's body. The feeling was exquisite and he stilled completely, groaning loudly as Obi-Wan tightened the muscles holding him.

"Gods yes, now move," Obi-Wan ordered as he snapped his hips backwards.

Qui-Gon started to move, penetrating Obi-Wan again and again in a series of long, slow strokes.

"Harder, more," Obi-Wan begged brokenly and Qui-Gon increased his pace, thrusting faster and deeper. The strength of his strokes were rocking Obi-Wan into the back of the couch, bumping his penis against the nap of the towel.. "Hurry," he pleaded, "Getting close."

Moving one hand down to Obi-Wan's balls and pressing to hold back his climax, Qui-Gon thrust hard a few more times before slamming in fully. Buried to the balls, he leaned forward and bit down on the passion mark he had created earlier as he poured his release into the confines of Obi-Wan's body. His trembling legs barely had enough strength to keep him upright as the last tremors of his orgasm pulsed from him. The hint of the Force that surrounded him as he pulled his spent shaft from Obi-Wan's body was all that allowed him to maneuver enough to drop onto the couch rather than collapse on the floor.

Obi-Wan straddled Qui-Gon's lap and dropped gentle kisses to his face until the blue eyes finally managed to force themselves open. "I was beginning to wonder if you were going to fall asleep on me."

"Just leave me here. Can't move," Qui-Gon rasped before pulling Obi-Wan down for a real kiss.

Obi-Wan pressed his still hard cock into his lover's stomach, spreading a patch of wetness on the skin as he explored the mouth beneath his. When he pulled back, he rebuked, "Not likely. We have some unfinished business."

"Don't think I can stand up," Qui-Gon insisted, his voice holding the barest hint of a whine.

Obi-Wan continued to rub his penis against the skin beneath him as he answered, "That's okay. The position I was in won't work in reverse because you're too tall." He made a show of thinking about it before suggesting, "Hands and knees on the couch would be much better." When Qui-Gon started to object, he reached between them to stroke one finger along Qui-Gon's belly, past his limp penis and sack until he reached the opening underneath. "I'm sure I can make it worth the effort."

Without waiting for a reply, Obi-Wan rose from Qui-Gon's lap, gathered up the tube of lube he had discarded earlier and used his own strength and the Force to shift his compliant but boneless lover into position while arranging the towel on the cushions beneath him. Placing the bunched blanket under Qui-Gon's head as a pillow, he coated his fingers and brought them to Qui-Gon's anus. He traced the ring of muscle for a minute or two before slipping barely inside. He loved touching his lover this way, bringing him to full arousal with just his hands and he soon swapped the teasing touches for more insistent ones, until he made the body beneath him take a renewed interest in the proceedings.

Removing his fingers, Obi-Wan spread some of the lube of his cock, positioned it against his lover's anus and then mimicked Qui-Gon's earlier behavior by whispering in his ear, "Are you ready for me to take you, my Master? To shove my cock inside you and show you just how hard I am for you?"

"Sith, yes," Qui-Gon replied, shifting back in an attempt to force the issue.

Obi-Wan didn't waste any time before he pressed forward and penetrated his lover in one smooth stroke. The pitch of his arousal rekindled almost instantly and he knew he wouldn't last very long. Striving to make this as pleasurable as possible for both of them, he reached down, grasping Qui-Gon's now erect shaft with his slick hand. He drove hard and deep into his lover, stroking him roughly in time with his frantic pace. He could feel that Qui-Gon was moving rapidly towards orgasm and fought hard to hold on until they could fall over the edge together. Finally when he thought it couldn't hold back for one more second, he felt Qui-Gon tense. His release exploded from him as he stilled inside his lover's body and he was vaguely aware of a matching wetness flowing over his hand.

Qui-Gon collapsed against the cushions of the couch and Obi-Wan followed him down, struggling to keep from continuing onto the floor. When the tremors had faded from his body, he shifted backwards until his spent penis slipped from his lover's body and then sprawled down. "Now I can't move."

Pulling the blanket out from under his head, Qui-Gon handed it back to Obi-Wan and said, "Me neither. Just cover us up and we can sleep here."

Heaving a heavy sigh, Obi-Wan forced himself to move enough so that he could sit on the edge of the couch. After a moment, he reached out a hand to Qui-Gon and cajoled, "Come on, up with you. You'll never get any rest like this. And Master Jufa will have our heads if you show up at the Medical Center tomorrow totally exhausted."

With exaggerated movements, Qui-Gon got into a seated position and looked a bit meekly at Obi-Wan. "Any chance you could carry me into the bedroom?"

"Not in my current state," Obi-Wan laughed. Rising to his feet, he pulled Qui-Gon up with him and aimed them in the direction of the bedroom.

Grabbing the blanket, Qui-Gon followed and after each of them had made brief trips to the refresher, they snuggled together buried deep beneath the covers. "Looks like my endurance record will remain unbroken," he complained..

Dropping a kiss to the skin under his lips, Obi-Wan countered sleepily, "Well, there's always tomorrow morning."

Thoroughly depleted by their energetic bout of lovemaking, neither felt compelled to continue the conversation and in less time than it would have taken to actually say 'Goodnight' both men were drifting into the welcome arms of sleep.

Obi-Wan awoke to find the rising sun just beginning to lighten the sky and Qui-Gon snoring softly beside him. He watched his lover sleep for a time, scrutinizing him carefully until he had etched Qui-Gon's youthful facial features into his memory. Although this experience had been extremely stressful for both of them, he knew that at some point in the future, he would look back on certain memories of this time with extreme fondness. Last night's encounter came quickly to mind.

When he was certain he had committed every millimeter of Qui-Gon's youthful face to memory, Obi-Wan deepened his master's sleep with a touch of the Force and rose carefully from the bed. After a quick trip to the refresher, he headed into the kitchen, grabbing a bottle of water before settling down at the computer terminal. He found messages of concern from the Prime Minister and Moytak and the expected message from Master Jufa, instructing Qui-Gon to be at the medical center by mid-morning. He sent an acknowledgement in his master's stead, placed an order with the restaurant for first-meal to be delivered for 0900 and closed down the computer terminal. Then he moved into the common room to set it back into order, collecting the remnants of last night's dessert onto the serving tray and placing it on the floor in the hallway. That done, he gathered their abandoned clothing and the other items before heading back into the bedroom to join his lover.

Qui-Gon stirred as Obi-Wan slipped back under the covers, mumbling, "you're cold" as he ran his hand along Obi-Wan's flank.

"So you'll just have to warm me up," Obi-Wan murmured, snuggling up to Qui-Gon without any explanation.

"I can do that," Qui-Gon replied, sounding a bit more awake as he pulled Obi-Wan tighter against him.

"I'm sure you can," Obi-Wan said softly before ending the inane conversation with a gentle kiss.

They lay together just kissing and touching for a long while, knowing that this would probably be the last opportunity for them to be together intimately for quite some time. Finally, kisses and caresses were no longer enough and they moved on to the next step. Qui-Gon penetrated Obi-Wan from behind as they lay spooned together. Moving slowly at first, they drew their gentle lovemaking out as long as they could before succumbing to the demands of their bodies. They fell over the edge one after the other, their names on each other's lips as their release flowed from their bodies. They languished in sated comfort until sleep claimed them both again.

A bit more sunshine had filtered into the room by the time Obi-Wan woke the second time. He opened his eyes to find Qui-Gon looking down at him with an expression that could only be described as fond amusement. "What?"

"I just realized how easily you sidestepped my query about you being cold earlier," Qui-Gon said. "Never expected to find my lessons in tactful evasiveness turned against me." When Obi-Wan only chuckled in reply, he continued, "I guess you got up for a bit."

"I was awake earlier so I got up to check messages, order first-meal and pick up a bit," Obi-Wan explained. "You were sleeping soundly so I saw no reason to wake you."

"So how long before I have to hand myself into the clutches of Master Jufa?" Qui-Gon asked.

"His message said mid-morning so I'd say if you haven't arrived by noon he'll send the guards out to collect you," Obi-Wan replied.

After taking a moment to glance at the chrono, Qui-Gon ran the back of his fingers along the curve of Obi-Wan's cheek as he said, "That gives us a couple of hours. I'd like to spend some time in meditation before we head over there. Would you care to join me?"

"Certainly. Just let me send a message to delay delivery of first-meal for about an hour and that will give us enough time to meditate and shower before it arrives," Obi-Wan agreed.

After a series of gentle good morning kisses, the two men rose from the bed and grabbed leggings and inner tunics from the pile of discarded clothing Obi-Wan had collected from the common room. He placed a quick call to the restaurant to delay the meal delivery and then joined Qui-Gon in front of the large transparisteel window in the common room.

Qui-Gon was kneeling on the floor, eyes closed and hands resting palms down on his knees. Obi-Wan dropped to the floor in front of him, mimicking his master's posture and arranging himself so that their knees and their fingertips were lightly touching. After returning the pulse of love that came to him over their bond, Obi-Wan closed his eyes and slowed his breathing to attain the proper meditative state. He expected that the next few days would most likely bring a world of challenges as Qui-Gon underwent treatment and he knew would need to be centered to support and encourage his master.

Qui-Gon surfaced from his mediation after a little more than an hour, feeling more centered and resolved than he had at any time since this nightmare began. The stone still taped to his chest felt warm and soothing against his skin as if reassuring him that they were on the right path. He studied Obi-Wan's peaceful visage as his padawan meditated, once again feeling exceedingly thankful that the Force had seen fit to bring the young man into his life. He must have allowed his emotions to filter over the bond because within a couple of minutes, Obi-Wan opened his eyes and smiled at him.

"I love you too, my Master," Obi-Wan said softly but the moment was broken when his stomach growled rather loudly.

"Though it appears that even Jedi cannot live on love alone, my Padawan, so I guess I should see about getting you fed," Qui-Gon remarked as he rose and pulled Obi-Wan to his feet as well. Glancing at the chrono, he saw they had about fifteen minutes before their food would be delivered. "I think we have time for a shower as long as we don't get distracted."

The half smile that teased at Obi-Wan's lips conflicted with his attempt at innocence as he replied, "I would never attempt to distract you, my Master.."

"And I just came in on a freighter from the Outer Rim, my Padawan," Qui-Gon replied, delivering a Force swat to Obi-Wan's backside to emphasize his point. "Besides, after last night and this morning, we should both be too worn out for distractions."

"I'm never too tired for distractions," Obi-Wan declared as expected with a wink and a wiggle of his hips.

But much to Qui-Gon's surprise, Obi-Wan followed him into the bedroom without further comment or contact. They stripped and were under the spray of the shower in less than a minute. They washed with a minimum of contact but that didn't keep either of them from looking their fill. They dressed the same way, only their eyes endeavoring to caress, and had just entered the kitchen when a knock sounded at the door.

Expecting someone from the restaurant or the complex staff, Qui-Gon was surprised to find Moytak standing at the door beside the food cart. "Good morning, Moytak."

"Good morning, Master Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan," Moytak responded as he pushed the cart through the door. "I don't mean to intrude but Feo filled us in on the situation and I wanted to see if there was anything I could do for either of you."

"We appreciate your concern but there's nothing at the moment," Qui-Gon began before glancing over at Obi-Wan and amending that with a slight smirk. "Though I would consider it a personal favor if you would ensure that Obi-Wan eats, sleeps and gets out of my infirmary room once in a while."

The return look could only be classified as an angry glare as Obi-Wan huffed, "I don't need a keeper."

"You must admit that your track record for taking care of yourself at times like this is less than stellar," Qui-Gon countered, his voice lacking even a hint of the intensity that would have been expected from his choice of words.

Moytak moved a few steps closer to Obi-Wan and interceded. "I have no intention of becoming your keeper but I'll be happy to be a friend and keep you company." His smile widened as he added, "And since I can barely manage to go more than a few hours without food, you'd end up eating by default."

Even though his residual anger was still evident, Obi-Wan's ingrained manners came forth and he smiled. "Would you care to join us for first-meal, Moytak?"

"Wish I could, but I have a meeting scheduled in less than a half hour," Moytak replied. "I'll check in with you later. I'll see if I can dig up my dejarik board and you can tromp me while we pass the time. It'll be just like the old days."

Obi-Wan's smile of agreement was a bit less forced as Moytak turned and left the townhouse. Pushing the abandoned food cart into the kitchen, Obi-Wan placed the food on the table and dropped into his chair. "I'm famished."

"Me, too. Must have been all that exercise," Qui-Gon agreed, honoring his padawan's obvious request to move onto a safer topic.

There was very little conversation as they dug into their meal, hunger and the remaining hint of tension keeping them focused on their plates. When they had finished, Qui-Gon retreated into the bedroom, tossing a few items for himself and Obi-Wan into a duffle bag while his padawan cleaned up from first-meal. Meeting back up with Obi-Wan in the common room, he said, "Might as well get going before Meneit comes looking for me."

Opening the door, Obi-Wan replied with a tense laugh, "And you know that he will," before following his Master to the lift.

They rode to the medical center on Moytak's speeder bike and Qui-Gon used the enforced silence to regroup. Focusing on the feel of the wind flowing over him as they sped through the streets, he drew on the Force to release the tension he had been doing his best to ignore and to regain his center. By the time the all too quick trip was completed and Obi-Wan was pulling into the parking area, he was relieved that he had managed to get an adequate grip on his control.

It was evident that they were expected because as soon as they entered the reception area, a healer's assistant approached them and bowed. "Good day, Ser Jedi. Healer Yagil asked me to direct you to the treatment area he has procured."

"Thank you," Qui-Gon replied with a smile. As he and Obi-Wan followed the young woman to the lift, he could feel Obi-Wan's increasing tension, so he tried to lessen it with a mental jest. An official escort. It seems Master Jufa wasn't taking any chances that I'd get cold feet.

I think this is one of those times where your reputation is a distinct disadvantage, Obi-Wan replied silently.

The price you pay, Qui-Gon sent back as they exited the lift and were directed into a mid-sized private treatment room.

The room was fairly standard, containing a large bed, a refresher, with the additions of a small lab area and a portable bacta tank that looked like it was still being connected. The only positive feature of this sterile room was that it was set in the corner of the building and had large windows on two sides. The transparisteel allowed the natural light to filter into the room and offered a nice view of the city. There were even two large potted plants resting on the windowsill, giving a touch of life to the otherwise sterile-looking room.

"There you are. I was beginning to think I'd need to send the guards to collect you," Master Jufa joked.

"Don't think I didn't consider offering Captain Embree a substantial bribe to get me off planet," Qui-Gon replied in the same tone.

"Good thing that Obi-Wan is around to keep you from making such detrimental choices," Meneit rejoined.

"As if," Obi-Wan scoffed but before the bantering could continue Feo entered the room.

"How did you make out?" Meneit asked.

"I was able to secure twenty kilograms of dynafermicite from the main mining consortium on Zeltros but they won't be able to have it ready for pick up until mid-day tomorrow," Feo explained.

"Does that mean I can leave and come back tomorrow?" Qui-Gon asked, not really expecting agreement.

"Really, Qui-Gon, that question doesn't even deserve an answer," Meneit scoffed, before detailing what he had planned for the interim. "Feo managed to gather up about four hundred milligrams of dynafermicite from an assortment of mineral supply houses across Ambria so I'd like to start a modified treatment regiment with that. We also need to get a set of detailed scans and base readings so that we'll be able to discern even the most minute changes. Healer Sarvai has agreed to work with us and she has procured a supply of topical bacta ointment that we can use in the short-term." After he finished his explanation, he turned to address Obi-Wan. "The tests and scans will take at least a few hours to complete so you may want to head out for a while and come back later."

"I'd prefer to stay, Master Jufa, as long as my presence won't be an inconvenience," Obi-Wan said. "I have plenty of course work to keep me occupied."

"As you wish, Padawan," Meneit replied, before turning his attention back to his patient. "Let's get to it then. Only two of the scans require you to leave this room so why don't we get those done first."

Reaching inside his tunic, Qui-Gon removed the stone taped to his chest. He handed it to Obi-Wan, along with the bag he had been carrying, his cloak and his lightsaber. With a faint smile, he nodded while replying, "Lead the way," and followed the master healer out the door.

A short time later, Feo headed off to procure some supplies and Obi-Wan found himself alone in the hospital room. With the tiketis he had given Qui-Gon still clasped in his hand, Obi-Wan clipped his Master's lightsaber to his belt beside his own and took a few minutes to store the items from the bag in the small chest of drawers by the bed. Grabbing one of his datapads, he settled into a chair to study and forced himself to concentrate fully on the words filling the screen.

Obi-Wan managed to actually read through a full chapter before his attention began to waver. He reached across the bond for his Master, not at all surprised to feel the man's annoyance but shocked to feel a considerable amount of pain seeping through. Master? he sent, struggling to conceal his growing concern when the mental query went unanswered for a long moment. Finally after almost two minutes, he got a tense mental reply, I'm fine, Obi-Wan. This test is just less than pleasant. It won't be much longer.

Acknowledging the dismissal with a wave of love, Obi-Wan tried to return to his reading but his attempt was less than successful. He finally gave up when he found himself rereading the same page four times without retaining anything. He rose from the chair and walked over to the window. He was perched on the sill, absently twirling the stone between his fingers as he gazed out the window when Feo came back into the room. "What kind of test in Master Jufa doing? It's seems to be taking a long time," he added, trying to mask his concern.

"He was doing two tests," Feo explained. "The first one is a thermal imaging scan of Qui-Gon's heart, circulatory and skeletal systems so that we have a basis for comparison once we start the treatment. The second is a bit more complex and invasive. Master Jufa is testing the condition of Qui-Gon's bones and joints. He needs to obtain microscopic bone samples from a random sampling of joints in order to complete the procedure."

"Sounds painful," Obi-Wan said, unable to fully suppress his shudder.

"Yes," was all Feo said but his expression made it clear that he would have used a stronger word than painful.

Silence descended over them after that, Feo becoming absorbed in the data on his computer display and Obi-Wan trying to ignore his increasing worry. Obi-Wan was so lost in his inner struggle that the sound of the door as it opened startled him. Moving from his seat on the windowsill, he slipped the tiketis into his belt pouch as he met up with the two men entering the room. "Scans finished?" he asked, trying to keep his tone casual. The raised eyebrow Qui-Gon favored him with told him he had failed at sounding casual but thankfully his master didn't call him on it.

Master Jufa directed Qui-Gon to the bed and instructed him firmly. "Lie down and rest for a bit. We can do some of the basic scans while you are resting."

The fact that Qui-Gon acquiesced without an argument told Obi-Wan all that he needed to know about the man's condition. "Can I get you anything, Master?"

"Just your company, Padawan," Qui-Gon replied, his voice hoarse from exhaustion.

"Always, my Master," Obi-Wan replied, fighting the desire to wrap his arms around the man he loved. When Qui-Gon sat on the edge of the bed, Obi-Wan knelt on the floor, unfastened and pulled off his master's boots and socks. Belts, stola, sash and tunics quickly followed, leaving Qui-Gon clad in only his leggings. He placed the boots and clothing in the closet as his master shifted to lie back. When he returned to the bedside, he asked, " How about a cup of honeyed tea? It might help you relax."

"That would be a kindness," Qui-Gon replied.

"Feo, is there somewhere that I could make tea for Qui-Gon?" Obi-Wan asked.

"There's a small staff lounge down the hall that Healer Sarvai has made available to us for the duration," Feo explained. "You should find everything you need there. It's three doors down on the left."

"Thanks, Feo," Obi-Wan said, adding, "I'll be back shortly," to Qui-Gon before heading out the door. He found the lounge easily and a healer's assistant on her afternoon break was kind enough to show him where everything was.. He used the time the tea was steeping to regain his floundering control. When the mug of tea had been prepared just the way Qui-Gon liked it, he placed a few cinnaicrisps on a small plate, grabbed the mug and a couple of bottles of water and headed back to the treatment room.

The head of Qui-Gon's bed had been elevated and Master Jufa was attaching an array of sensors to various spots on Qui-Gon's body. Obi-Wan waited until the healer had finished then walked over and placed the hot mug into Qui-Gon's hands. He returned his master's small smile as he drew a chair over to the bed. He sat down in it, intent on offering comfort and support in whatever manner he could.

Hours passed as Master Jufa shifted between discussing treatment plans with Feo and Healer Sarvai, who had come into the room shortly after the healer and Qui-Gon had returned, and recording the data he was collecting from the sensors attached to Qui-Gon's skin. Qui-Gon dropped into a state that was a combination of meditative and healing trances as the healers bustled around him. He offered no resistance to the prodding and poking but Obi-Wan could easily sense that his master's patience had definitely worn thin.

Obi-Wan was relieved when Master Jufa announced that they would be breaking for late-meal before undertaking the first dynafermicite treatment. They were trying to decide whether to order from the medical center commissary or from one of the nearby restaurants when Moytak appeared at the door carrying two large boxes.

"Hope you guys haven't eaten yet," Moytak said. "Mother sent me over with a care package. She didn't want to have to inflict the medical center's commissary on you."

"Thank the gods," Feo exclaimed, obviously very familiar with the bland commissary fare. "I'm starving."

Using one of the workspace counters Feo had cleared, Moytak laid out the various food containers, plates and utensils and motioned everyone over to dig in. Qui-Gon still had the sensors attached to his skin so Obi-Wan filled a plate for him before doing one for himself.

The meal passed pleasantly with Meneit and Feo providing most of the conversation as they gave Moytak an update on Qui-Gon's condition. When the meal was finished, they stacked everything back into the boxes and Moytak placed them by the door before moving back to stand next to Obi-Wan. Meneit went back to the worktable, gathering the large container of ointment Feo had mixed earlier plus the other supplies he would need before turning to the others in the room. "It'll probably take me a while to apply the salve so you may want to get out of this room for a bit," the Jedi healer said as he took hold of the privacy curtain around Qui-Gon's bed.

"Unless you think you may need me, I think I'll head home for the night," Feo said. "You can call me if something comes up."

"That's fine," Meneit replied. "Thanks for all your help. I'll see you in the morning." When Feo nodded and left, he turned to Obi-Wan and Moytak.

"I'd rather stay unless you feel that would be a problem," Obi-Wan said.

"As you wish," Meneit replied. The slight frown he wore as he pulled the curtain told Obi-Wan that although he didn't really agree, he didn't feel it was worth arguing about.

"You sure you wouldn't like to get out of here for a little while?" Moytak prodded.

"Thanks but I want to stay close, in case Qui-Gon needs me," Obi-Wan replied.

"Want some company?" Moytak offered.

"You don't have to," Obi-Wan countered but when his friend threw him an affronted glare he backed down with a chuckle. "I'd love some company." Taking the chairs they had used for their meal, the two men moved to the other side of the room and settled in.

Obi-Wan let Moytak lead the conversation. He listened with half an ear, commenting often enough not to be rude but had the bulk of his attention focused on Qui-Gon through their bond. He was sure that Moytak realized this but was grateful that he made no comment. He just continued to supply the banter that provided a much appreciated screen for the fluctuating sound of the cardiac monitor. He was getting impressions of Qui-Gon's physical reactions to Master Jufa's treatment and was thankful that he couldn't feel any strong surges of discomfort.

After a little more than an hour, Master Jufa pulled back the privacy curtain and came over to Obi-Wan. "Qui-Gon seems to have accepted the treatment without any major problems. He dropped into a light meditative trance when I started applying the ointment. There were a few random problems with his heart rhythm but each time his normal rhythm reestablished itself within a few beats and the rest of his vital signs remained strong throughout."

"Did the dynafermicite have any effect?" Obi-Wan asked.

"We'll know better in the morning how effective this first treatment has been," Meneit replied.

Releasing his frustration at this non-definitive response, Obi-Wan pushed forward. "So what happens now?"

"We wait. As I hoped, most of the ointment, and subsequently the dynafermicite, was absorbed into his skin. Qui-Gon will remain attached to the monitoring system as a precaution while he sleeps," Meneit explained. "Healer Sarvai has set aside a room for me in the staff area for the next few nights so I think I'll head down there to get a few hours of sleep. I suggest you head back to the townhouse and do the same."

"I'd prefer to stay here," Obi-Wan contradicted. "I think Qui-Gon will rest better if I'm here."

With the same frown he had worn earlier, Meneit asked, "Do you want me to have a cot brought in?"

Qui-Gon must have surfaced from his healing trance at some point during the conversation because he piped up before Obi-Wan could reply, "That won't be necessary, Meneit. This bed has plenty of room for the two of us."

A half smile appeared on Master Jufa's as he said, "As you wish. Just don't forget that you're still attached to the cardiac monitor. You wouldn't want to scandalize the staff if one of them came running in because it showed your heart rate was elevated." The twin glares that the Jedi speared him with were more than sufficient to get him to relent from his teasing. He gathered up the datapads that contained his research and headed toward the door. "Come on, Moytak. Let's leave these two to their own devices.. Just make sure you get some sleep, Qui-Gon."

"Goodnight, Master Qui-Gon. Obi-Wan, I'll check in with you in the morning," Moytak said as he joined the Jedi healer.

Before either of them could reply, the door slid closed leaving Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan alone in the room. Obi-Wan moved to his master's bedside, one hand pushing back a lock of hair draped over Qui-Gon's cheek. "How are you feeling, Master?"

"A little better," Qui-Gon replied, though his voice betrayed his fatigue.

Forehead creasing in concentration, Obi-Wan used the Force to examine his master before pressing, "Really? Or are you just trying to keep me from worrying?"

"No chance of that happening," Qui-Gon returned as he tugged on Obi-Wan's free hand. "Mostly I'm just tired and my joints are a bit achy from the earlier probes. It's been a rather intense day, for both of us. So why don't you get naked so we can snuggle together and get some rest."

"I don't know if me getting naked is such a good idea, Master," Obi-Wan teased even as he bent over to pull off his boots. "You must admit that your restraint has been somewhat diminished recently."

"The thought of having our activities interrupted by a well-meaning healer's assistant is more than enough to bolster my flagging self-control," Qui-Gon disagreed with a smirk.

"I have to agree with you there, my Master. As extensive as my list of kinky fantasies is, exhibitionism has never been anywhere on it," Obi-Wan said as he continued to undress.

Raking a possessive leer over the half-naked form of his lover, Qui-Gon readily agreed. "No, there are certain parts of you that I have no intention of sharing with anyone else."

Stripped down to his linens, Obi-Wan placed their lightsabers and the tiketis on the bedside table and then stored his clothing and boots in the closet with Qui-Gon's. That done, he looked over at Qui-Gon. "Anything I can get for you?"

Qui-Gon patted the space beside him and replied, "Just you."

Needing no further invitation, Obi-Wan moved around the bed and slid under the covers, mindful of the monitor leads still attached to Qui-Gon's chest. He snuggled up against the broad frame and leaned down to drop a series of light kisses over his lover's face. They shared a few deeper kisses but Obi-Wan could feel the bone deep exhaustion radiating from Qui-Gon so he pulled back with a sigh. "Time to sleep."

When Qui-Gon rolled onto his side to get into a more comfortable position for sleep, Obi-Wan spooned carefully behind him. Looping one hand over his lover's hip and slipping the other gently into Qui-Gon's hair, Obi-Wan dropped a kiss to the skin nearest his lips and settled in for the night.

Qui-Gon managed to fall asleep almost immediately but Obi-Wan found sleep a bit more elusive. Although today's treatment seemed to have gone well, they still had a long way to go until Qui-Gon was fully recovered and he found his mind drawn to the possible complications that could arise. There were just so many unknown factors and it was difficult not to allow his fears to overwhelm the reality of the progress that had been made. Finally after a substantial number of vain attempts, he managed to dispel the worse of his fears into the Force and drift off to sleep.

The following morning they rose together just after dawn. After a healer's assistant checked on Qui-Gon and temporarily removed the monitoring devices, they shared a mostly platonic shower and an hour of meditation before the staff delivered first-meal for them. Master Jufa arrived as they were finishing their meal with Feo and Healer Sarvai close behind. After completing a number of scans, Master Jufa reconnected the monitors and applied another round of bacta ointment. He forced Qui-Gon into another two hour healing trance, which ended just as mid-meal, was being delivered.

Prime Minister Shaadir arrived for a visit just as the two Jedi were finishing their meal and the conversation quickly turned to the ongoing investigation.

"Have the investigators been able to make any progress with the information we provided?" Qui-Gon asked.

"Not as much as I would like," Odan admitted. "The lead judicial department investigator was hoping to be able to avail himself of your expertise but I made him aware that at the present time your health is a much higher priority to me than his investigation."

"I'd be more than happy to review the information they've compiled if you think?" Qui-Gon left his sentence unfinished as he looked over at Obi-Wan before turning back to the Prime Minister. "Better yet, do you think the lead investigator would be willing to accept Obi-Wan's help in my stead?" He tossed his padawan as sly smile as he added, "He could offer many of the same insights and investigative methods as I would and his computer proficiency is at a level that I'll never hope to achieve."

"Inspector Krenn is only in his mid thirties and much more progressive that most Oliani professionals so I don't expect he would turn down Jedi assistance for something as minor as Obi-Wan's age," Odan replied. "And both the law enforcement and judicial branches offer internship programs to students from the universities so there are no strictures against minority persons in their facilities. I'll contact him this afternoon and get back to you later."

They talked for a few more minutes before Odan headed out leaving the two Jedi alone in the room. Qui-Gon could see that Obi-Wan was less than enthusiastic at having been volunteered so he delved right into it. "Assisting with the investigation will be a much more interesting way to spend your time than hovering at your old master's bedside, Padawan." When Obi-Wan made no comment, he reached over and cupped the younger man's cheek. "I know you would prefer to stay here, just as I would if the situation were reversed, but we have a duty to the mission. Not to mention that I'll feel a lot less guilty if you're not spending all your time cooped up in this wretched room."

"Yes, Master," Obi-Wan replied, but his tone made it evident that he was agreeing only out of duty.

"Working on the investigation as an official member of the team will give you the opportunity to use your skills openly," Qui-Gon said. "You won't have to work behind the scenes as you have since we arrived or like you did seven years ago. You'll not only be able to make a valuable contribution to the investigation but hopefully you can begin to impart the realization that age is not the primary determinant of a person's worth. And you can also make my confinement less tedious, by coming back each evening and sharing your findings with me." A smile blossomed as he added, "Consider it a preview of our life together after you are Knighted. You'll spend the first year or two being assigned legions of grunt missions, returning every few tens to spend a few days in Temple and share your experiences with me as we make the most of our limited time together."

Obi-Wan's second, "Yes, Master," was a little less forced and they spent the next half hour just enjoying each other's company.

When Master Jufa returned from his meal break to begin Qui-Gon's afternoon treatment, Obi-Wan retreated with his datapad to review the information they had already compiled. Qui-Gon settled into his healing trance as soon as the treatment was finished and when Moytak arrived shortly before late-meal, Obi-Wan was still perched on the window ledge, looking alternately between his datapad and the early evening sky.

"How is Master Qui-Gon doing?" Moytak asked.

"The same," Obi-Wan replied. "Master Jufa wants to proceed slowly so he doesn't expect that we will see any noticeable changes for at least a few days."

"Father said that you are going to be working with Inspector Krenn starting tomorrow," Moytak said.

"Yes, your father commed me a short time ago to say that the Inspector was grateful to have my assistance," Obi-Wan answered somewhat flatly.

"You don't sound too happy about that, Obi-Wan," Moytak remarked.

"Part of me is looking forward to working actively and openly to bring the people behind everything that has happened to justice. And I could definitely use the distraction but ?" Obi-Wan allowed the sentence to remain unfinished, not wanting to have his reservations spoken aloud.

But his friend saw through him and filled in, "You want to be here in case something goes wrong and Qui-Gon needs you."

"Overprotective, possibly even irrational, but sadly also true," Obi-Wan admitted very softly.

"Not irrational. It may be a tad overprotective but not unwarranted considering the situation," Moytak observed. "But it's not like you'll be on the other side of the planet. You could get back here in minutes if the need arose."

"True enough," Obi-Wan replied but any further conversation on the matter ended as Qui-Gon surfaced from his healing trance.

Moytak visited with the two men for a few more minutes but left when a staff member arrived to deliver late-meal. Obi-Wan informed Qui-Gon of the Prime Minister's call and the conversation turned back to the investigation as they shared their meal.

Joining Master Jufa in the room shortly after the meal was finished, Feo and Healer Sarvai helped to complete some additional scans and they spent the next couple of hours reviewing their findings. Obi-Wan listened intently but found that most of their discussion was too in-depth to provide him with any sense of how things were going. Other than the continued issues with Qui-Gon irregular heart rhythm and the other symptoms they had already noted, they found no additional problems so Master Jufa allowed Qui-Gon out of bed for what seemed like the first time in two days. After gathering a robe and some soft indoor boots for Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan joined his master in a slow walk down the hallways of the medical wing.

When they arrived back at the room a half hour later, Qui-Gon was exhausted, that slight amount of exertion enough to sap any energy his healing body had managed to store. He settled into bed almost immediately and Obi-Wan headed into the refresher to change while Master Jufa did a few more quick scans. After the Jedi healer left for the evening, Obi-Wan settled into bed as well and, after only a few minutes of gentle kisses, snuggled against his lover as they both drifted off to sleep.

The following morning set the pattern that continued for the next five days.. Like the day before, they rose together just after dawn, shared a shower and meditation before the staff delivered first-meal for them. This gave them the only private moments they were able to share outside of sleep. Master Jufa, Feo and Healer Sarvai showed up at various junctures after first-meal and the day began in earnest.

Early mornings were spent repeating a variety of scans, Master Jufa recording even the tiniest changes in Qui-Gon's physical state. Late mornings and late afternoons were taken up by Qui-Gon's actual treatment. Captain Embree had returned from Zeltros with the additional supply of dynafermicite so the treatment was modified to intervals in the mineral augmented bacta tank.. Master Jufa was becoming increasingly concerned with Qui-Gon's erratic heart rhythm and the toll the treatments were taking on Qui-Gon's energy reserves so, after a short break for nourishment, he insisted that Qui-Gon spend at least two hours after each tank session in a deep healing trance.

Struggling to force his concerns for Qui-Gon into the corners of his mind, Obi-Wan headed to the Judicial Building as soon as the healers started their routine. He arrived to a much warmer welcome than he had anticipated. Inspector Krenn spent the first morning going over the little additional information that they had compiled and he found it easy to lose himself in analyzing the intricacies of the data. He was involved with all the interviews that Inspector Krenn set up, questioning the additional conspirators revealed by their investigation and those individuals who came forward with information about the terrorism. Day by day, they added small bits of information to the evidence they had collected, none of it alone enough to prosecute anyone but added together it brought them closer and closer to having an airtight case against those already identified.

Although he was too far away for mind speech with Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan was still able to monitor his master's general condition over their bond. After he sensed that each tank session was completed and Qui-Gon was settled comfortably into his healing trance, he relaxed a bit as he delved more deeply into the investigation. On his second day at the Judicial Building, he started spending his midday meal break in the facility's gym, running along the indoor track and using some of the available equipment to add some physical activity to his current sedentary situation.

When the investigative team ended work for the day, Obi-Wan would head back to the Medical Center. After getting an update on his master's condition, he would share late-meal with Qui-Gon and fill him in on the day's progress. These sessions always proved beneficial for him because as they reviewed the information either he or Qui-Gon managed to pick up little details that he had dismissed as irrelevant. As Qui-Gon's strength grew, the length of their evening stroll increased and they enjoyed this addition to their minimal private time.

After the first few days of treatment, Feo and Healer Sarvai came by less often, leaving the majority of Qui-Gon's care to Master Jufa and the healer's assistants that had been assigned this room. Visitors, including the Prime Minister, Moytak and other family members, stopped by at various intervals but the rigid treatment schedule was not conducive to extended visits. If Qui-Gon was awake he would chat with the visitors for a bit but many times either they would get an update from Master Jufa or visit with Obi-Wan if he had returned from the Judiciary Building.

During the fourth day of treatment, the impression of security that had enfolded them as Qui-Gon's therapy progressed disappeared in the blink of an eye. Obi-Wan sensed a wave of intense pain coming from Qui-Gon just as the interview he was conducting was completed so he excused himself for the day and headed back to the Medical Center. He pulled out his comm link as he mounted Moytak's speeder bike but was not surprised when the messaging system answered rather than the Master Healer. He completed the ride back with a good portion of his focus on Qui-Gon through their bond and was relieved that their connection was still strong and solid even amid the pain.

Arriving back in Qui-Gon's room at a pace just short of a run, Obi-Wan approached the bed to find a large group of people massed around it. Master Jufa stood at the center of the group, barking out instructions and injecting the contents of a hypospray into the side of Qui-Gon's neck. Fear surged in Obi-Wan as he took in the much paler form of his master, quivering in a manner all too similar to the convulsions he had suffered on the day of the attack.

It seemed like an eternity, though in reality it couldn't have been more than ten minutes, before Master Jufa turned to look at him. "What happened?" Obi-Wan asked.

"We decided to try adding a third immersion to the regimen," Meneit explained, "but it appears that increasing the treatment rate put too much stress of his weakened body. Qui-Gon had been in the tank for about twenty minutes when his heart rate began to fluctuate and his breathing became erratic. By the time we pulled him out of the tank, his body was being raked by convulsions and his heart was skipping a beat at least once every thirty seconds. We had to use drugs and electric stimulation to force his heart back into a normal rhythm."

Obi-Wan looked over to see the rest of the group gathering up their medical equipment as Feo and Healer Sarvai adjusted the monitors on Qui-Gon's chest. "How is he now?"

"He's resting comfortably for the moment," Meneit replied with a glance over at Qui-Gon. "I'll need to run a few more tests to see if there was any permanent damage but that can wait for tomorrow. For now, we're just going to monitor him."

"Is he unconscious?" Obi-Wan asked, his voice cracking.

"No. The medication I gave him to stop the convulsions has a strong sleeping agent in it," Meneit said. "He should sleep for a while yet. If his scans remain stable, I'd like him to settle into a deep healing trance as soon as he awakens. If you want to assist with that, I'm sure it would help."

Obi-Wan nodded his agreement and when the rest of the healers had moved away from the bed, he brought a chair over to the bedside and sat down to hold vigil over his master's sleeping form. He dropped into a half trance to build up his reserves of energy for when Qui-Gon awoke. He was vaguely aware of Master Jufa discussing Qui-Gon's condition with Feo and Healer Sarvai but he ignored the conversation, preferring to focus all his attention on his master.

About two hour later, Qui-Gon awoke from his drug-induced sleep. Obi-Wan was up from his chair almost instantly, offering small sips of water and sending soothing tendrils of the Force along his master's still sensitive nerves.

Master Jufa made his way over seconds later, doing a quick examination before he would allow Qui-Gon to move. When the exam was complete, he raised the bed and helped Qui-Gon sit up before he explained in full detail exactly what had happened and what he had had to do to get Qui-Gon stabilized.

"So, where do we go from here?" Qui-Gon asked.

"After I've run tests to assure us that no permanent damage has been done, we'll go back to our original treatment regimen," Meneit explained. "I'd like to put you into a deep healing trance, for a at least eight hours, to help your body recover from the episode and to build your energy reserves. If you're hungry, I can get a light meal for you before we start."

"Maybe just some tea. My stomach is a bit queasy," Qui-Gon said before turning to Obi-Wan. "You should get something, though."

"I'll get something later," Obi-Wan said. Meneit left the bedside to speak to a healer's assistant and Obi-Wan couldn't keep his hand from shaking as he pushed a sweat soaked strand of hair from Qui-Gon's face. "How are you feeling, Master?"

"Like someone's been beating on my chest with the hilt of a lightsaber," Qui-Gon grumbled, his attempt at humor ending in a cough. "Not an experience I'd ever want to go through again."

The tone of voice and facial expression that accompanied that small admission told Obi-Wan more clearly that anything else could that this latest setback had affected Qui-Gon more than even the seizures right after the attack.. "Let's make certain that you don't have to."

A young woman came over with Qui-Gon's mug of tea and silence enveloped them as he drank the dark brew and struggled to regain his equilibrium. Before Obi-Wan could even place the empty mug on the bedside table, Meneit was back, lowering the bed and waiting for Qui-Gon to get comfortable.

At Master Jufa's signal, Obi-Wan placed his hand against Qui-Gon's cheek in a gesture of comfort, though he wasn't sure which one of them he was trying to comfort. "Ready, Master?" he asked. When Qui-Gon nodded, Obi-Wan closed his eyes and extended over their bond, using it to send a strong flow of Force energy into his master as he helped him settle into his healing trance.

When Obi-Wan opened his eyes, he was surprised to see that the straight-backed chair he had placed by Qui-Gon's bed had been replaced by a comfortable looking recliner. He looked up at Master Jufa to find him smiling gently at him.

"I knew you'd never leave here and with all the new monitoring leads connected to Qui-Gon, sharing the bed is out of the question," Meneit said. "At least this way you'll rest, even though you most likely won't sleep.

"Thank you," Obi-Wan said as he dropped down into the chair. He didn't bother trying to make conversation, just closing his eyes and strengthening his link to Qui-Gon before allowing the Force to lull him into a meditative trance of his own.

The first rays of sun coming through the transparisteel brought Obi-Wan from his trance and into wakefulness. As he opened his eyes, he could see that Qui-Gon was still resting peacefully in the welcoming comfort of his Force imbued healing trance. He rose from his seat and stretched this way and that, willing the blood to flow back into his stiff limbs until he could move comfortably. His body's needs forced him to leave Qui-Gon's bedside for a couple of minutes but he was grateful to find his master still asleep when he returned.

Obi-Wan surveyed Qui-Gon and used the Force to check his master's physical condition. He was relieved that he could not sense any lingering major ill effects from the experience. Qui-Gon's heart was beating in a strong and steady rhythm and his breathing was slow and deep. He watched the sleeping man for an unknown amount of time, until he saw the eyelashes flutter and heavy lids opened to reveal the well loved blue eyes. "Good morning, Master.. How are you feeling this morning?"

Qui-Gon closed his eyes again, seeming to focus inward to evaluate for himself exactly how he was feeling. After a long moment, he opened his eyes, pulling Obi-Wan forward for a gentle kiss before answering his padawan's question. "Better, I think. Though I'm certain Meneit will be here shortly to let me know for sure."

As if Qui-Gon's statement had conjured him up, Meneit appeared almost immediately and came directly to the bedside. Obi-Wan could sense the wave of the Force the master healer extended to appraise Qui-Gon's condition. No words were spoken as the Force evaluation gave way to an evaluation with hands and scanners. Monitoring patches were disconnected and set aside as the healer conducted as extensive examination.

Only when Meneit had completely finished did Qui-Gon ask, "Well?"

"You seem to have come out of this none the worse for wear but I'd like to do another thermal imaging scan of your heart. If that's normal we can resume the treatment later this afternoon," Meneit said.

With Qui-Gon's agreement, Meneit left to schedule the test and Obi-Wan helped Qui-Gon into the refresher for a shower among other things. Breakfast followed and when Meneit came back to escort Qui-Gon to the imaging chamber, Obi-Wan headed back to the Judicial Building to continue his work on the investigation.

After the tests had assured him that the situation was now stabilized, Master Jufa set Qui-Gon back on the previous treatment schedule. This slow pace had Qui-Gon's age increasing at a rate of about one year per day and by the time seven days of treatment had been completed the marking scans computed Qui-Gon's age at twenty-seven. Progress was being made but, even with the what had happened when they attempted to increase the pace, Qui-Gon was finding the creeping rate had become a frustration all its own. He and Obi-Wan returned to their previous daily pattern of activities and tried to make the most of the limited time they had together.

Shortly after Obi-Wan returned from his mid day trip to the Judicial Building's gym on the eighth day, an aide came into the research area he was using to tell him that Inspector Krenn was requesting his presence in his office. After saving his files, he made his way there to find the barrister assigned by the Judicial Department to prosecute this case seated in one of the chairs in front of Krenn's desk.

"Ah, Obi-Wan, thanks for coming so quickly," Inspector Krenn said as Obi-Wan took a seat. "It seems all our diligence on this investigation has paid off. Barrister Rula met with the barristers representing Defense Minister Xiandoran and Major Arvid this morning to present them with a detailed list of the evidence that we have compiled. He received calls from them about an hour ago. Their clients have agreed to guilty pleas to the charges of collusion and insurrection in order to avoid the public humiliation of a lengthy trial and the possibility that they could be found guilty of the more serious offence of treason. We expect that the minor conspirators will follow suit and arrange plea bargains to avoid trials."

"And for the attack against Master Jinn?" Obi-Wan asked, relieved that his voice showed no sign of his internal turmoil.

"Major Arvid has admitted to administering the drug to Master Jinn and to arranging the attack against you both when you left the Prime Minister's residence on your first evening on planet," Barrister Rula explained. "She refused to implicate the Defense Minister in the actual planning of these events although we do have proof that he provided the financing for all of her activities. As a result, we are only able to charge him as an accessory for both attacks."

"Did Major Arvid say why she used such an unusual weapon against Master Jinn?" Obi-Wan asked the question that had haunted him since all this began.

"To keep suspicion on the Cerenti," Krenn replied. "In the written statement provided by her barrister, she claimed that she expected Master Jinn would be able to purge any substance with a minimum of damage to him. She never expected that any permanent damage would occur. She planned the attack to cause a momentary diversion that would reinforce the belief that the Cerenti were behind all the terrorism."

Obi-Wan fought to release the wave of anger that admission welled up in him.. "Did either of them admit to a reason behind the terrorism itself?"

"Not officially. But unofficially, it seems that the Defense Minister was bemoaning the change in status he has undergone in the years since the war ended," Kreen said. "As peace settled more firmly on Ambria, he was no longer the man with the power. It seems that he feared that if things continued along this path, he would be relegated more and more into the background before being pushed completely from any position of authority in government."

"Power and greed. It seems that almost all wars begin because of one or the other," Obi-Wan commented in disgust. "Has sentencing been decided for either or both of them?"

"Defense Minister Xiandoran will serve a minimum of fifteen years at Jagg Island Detention Center along with providing financial restitution in the amount of five hundred thousand credits towards the reparation cost for the properties damaged due to the terrorism," Krenn explained. "Major Arvid will be sentenced to twenty years in the Chorios Detention Center for Women and be required to pay fifty thousand credits in restitution. Upon plea agreements with this office, appropriate punishments will be handed down to the mercenaries they recruited and to any government personnel who were found to have had foreknowledge of the terrorist activity."

Satisfied that the punishment dispensed was in accordance with the severity of the crimes committed, Obi-Wan nodded his agreement, thanked both men and accepted their thanks for his contribution as well. They spent a few more minutes discussing the sentencing and then Obi-Wan said his goodbyes and headed back to his research station to collect his belongings. He took a few minutes to share thank yous and farewells with the rest of the investigative team and then left the Justice Building to return to the Medical Center.

When Obi-Wan arrived at Qui-Gon's room, he found his Master and the Prime Minister deep in discussion about the plea agreements.

"Ah, Obi-Wan," Odan called out in greeting. "We were just talking about you."

"Only good things, I hope," Obi-Wan teased as he placed his robe in the closet.

"As if there could be anything but," Odan replied in the same tone. He ignored Qui-Gon's amused snort and continued. "I was filling Qui-Gon in on this morning's turn of events. I spoke with Inspector Krenn before I headed over here. He was very impressed with your intelligence, insights and proficiency in investigative techniques. He is unwavering in his belief that closure would not have been achieved on the investigation this quickly without your contribution." Odan rose from his seat and placed his hand on Obi-Wan's shoulder in a heartfelt gesture. "As am I, Obi-Wan."

Flushing slightly at the compliment, Obi-Wan bowed and said, "It was my honor and duty to assist in any way I could, Minister Shaadir. I am just pleased that I was able to help impact a resolution. With this matter behind you, peace can once again envelop Ambria."

They discussed the situation for a little while longer, Obi-Wan sharing a few of the more interesting anecdotes from the interviews and Odan gathering a few more details about how they had compiled the evidence.

When Odan left to return to his office for a late afternoon meeting, Qui-Gon took the opportunity to commend his apprentice. "I am very proud of you, Padawan. You have handled yourself impeccably throughout this mission, in spite of your personal feelings." He reached up and ran the back of his fingers along Obi-Wan's cheek. "You are a credit to the Jedi Order and I foresee that you will be a great Jedi Knight."

"You are wholly responsible for the man and the Jedi that I have become and I only hope I can continue to be a credit to your teaching," Obi-Wan replied as he mimicked Qui-Gon's gesture.

"You are giving me way too much credit, my Padawan," Qui-Gon countered. "You have always been a dedicated and enthusiastic student, hungry for knowledge and putting your full effort into every activity you undertook. You would have thrived under any master's tutelage."

"It's you who does not give yourself enough credit, my Master," Obi-Wan said softly. A second later, his eyes sparkled with mischief as he added, "And just so that we are perfectly clear, there is no other Master whose tutelage I would want to be under."

Any snappy retort Qui-Gon might have come up with was thwarted by Master Jufa's arrival, so Qui-Gon turned his attention to the healer. "It seems that the terrorist situation has been fully resolved. Since there's no longer any need for us to remain on Ambria, I would like to see about returning to the Temple." When the healer looked like he was going to speak, Qui-Gon held up his hand and continued. "Meneit, at the rate the treatment is progressing, it will be close to a full cycle before the regimen in completed. If we return to Coruscant, you'd be able to resume some of your regular duties in addition to overseeing my care, Obi-Wan could use the time to complete some course work and I could retreat to the comfort of my own quarters and bed between treatments."

Meneit was silent for a few moments, obviously pondering the feasibility of Qui-Gon's idea, before he nodded and said, "Being back at Temple and working from the familiar surrounds of the Temple Infirmary would definitely make things easier. I have my doubts about shifting your treatment to outpatient status but that is a discussion we can postpone until we get back to Coruscant."

"Is there enough dynafermicite left to create another batch of augmented bacta?" Obi-Wan asked.

"There should be," Meneit replied. "Plus, Feo discovered that the dynafermicite retains its molecular integrity even when mixed with the bacta so it can be filtered from the medium with only residual loss of quantity."

Continuing with his plan, Qui-Gon said, "Obi-Wan, could you contact Captain Embree and see how soon he can have the 'Albatross' ready for departure?"

"Preferably sometime tomorrow morning?" Meneit interjected.

"I see no reason for us to delay our departure until tomorrow," Qui-Gon countered in the cold voice he usually reserved for annoying diplomats.

"If we leave now we would have to forgo your afternoon immersion and I do not want to have a two day break in your treatment regimen," Meneit replied, his voice taking on a similar hard edge. "And since, as your Healer, I have dominion on any decision that affects your health, I expect you to heed my advice."

Sensing how badly Qui-Gon wanted out of the Medical Center, Obi-Wan offered an alternative. "Why don't I see if Captain Embree can arrange for us to depart this evening, say around 2100 hours? We would get back to Temple twelve hours sooner while keeping the disruption to Qui-Gon's treatment at an absolute minimum."

"You've trained him well, Qui-Gon," Meneit replied with a huff of laughter. "Diplomatic, logical and compelling without a trace of your more annoying traits."

"He's always been a much wiser man than I," Qui-Gon said softly before agreeing. "That would be fine. Obi-Wan, if Captain Embree is amenable, please use the time I'm in the tank to pack all our belongings and inform Minister Shaadir of our decision."

Not really wanting to be away again during the treatment but knowing it was the most feasible plan, Obi-Wan agreed with a reluctant, "Yes, Master. I should be back in a couple of hours." When Qui-Gon nodded, Obi-Wan grabbed his cloak from the closet and headed out the door.

It took only a couple minutes to reach the parking area and Obi-Wan jumped on the speeder bike and drove to the hangar. When he entered the cockpit of the 'Albatross', Captain Embree was fiddling with one of the communication relays, a jumble of wires, bolts and tools spread over the deck around him. "Hope it's not too long a job to reassemble that," he said in way of greeting.

"And why would that matter?" Embree asked without shifting his attention from his work.

"Well, it only matters if you want to be able to leave here tonight," Obi-Wan replied with a smile.

That comment seemed to pique Embree's interest, because he slid out from under the console and looked up at Obi-Wan. "Is Master Jinn fully recovered?"

"It will be a few tens before he's fully recovered but Master Jufa has determined that he is stable enough to travel back to Coruscant," Obi-Wan explained. "He'd like to depart around 2100 hours if you can have the ship ready by then."

"We'll be ready. No offense to the Oliani but I can't wait to get off this rock," Embree replied. "Almost two tens cooling our heels in this hangar has been more than enough to have the crew's tempers flaring."

"I understand completely. I'm looking forward to getting home myself," Obi-Wan said. "I'm going to collect our belongings and I'll check back with you later." With that, Obi-Wan left the 'Albatross', jumped back on the bike and headed to Moytak's townhouse.

It didn't take him long to get their things packed so within twenty minutes he had the two duffle bags stuffed into the storage compartment of the bike and was heading to the Oliani visitors residence. He verified that nothing had been left behind in their original quarters, packed up the few things in Master Jufa's quarters and mounted the bike to head back to the ship. He had only driven a few blocks when the sight of a familiar storefront drew his attention.

Parking the bike in a public lot, Obi-Wan walked quickly back to the small shop and entered to find the elderly shopkeeper arranging items in the display case. The man looked up and smiled at his unexpected guest. "Obi-Wan Kenobi. I must say this is a pleasant surprise."

With a formal bow he would normally bestow on the Council or royalty, Obi-Wan greeted the elderly shopkeeper. "Ser Darlyn. I wanted to return to thank you for allowing me to acquire the tiketis. You are probably unaware of this but my Master was seriously injured a few days after we arrived and the Healers were at a loss as to how to help him. The stone ended up providing the key to developing a treatment plan for his injuries. It will take a few more tens but he is expected to recover fully."

"As I said that day, young Obi-Wan, the tiketis decided where it belonged. I only served as the conduit to get it to its rightful owner," Ser Darlyn said. A sly smile appeared on his face as he added, "Though it is always pleasant to be proven right."

"I will be eternally grateful for your foresight and your kindness, Ser Darlyn," Obi-Wan said, his voice thick with emotion. "I dread to even consider what might have happened to my Master if the tiketis had not come into my possession."

"I can see that Qui-Gon Jinn is more than your master, Obi-Wan," Ser Darlyn said, without any hint of question.

A faint blush appeared on Obi-Wan's cheeks as he replied, "You are a very perceptive man, Ser Darlyn. Qui-Gon is my partner, my mate and my lover as well as my teacher. He is the one who shares my life and heart, both as a Jedi and as a man."

"Master Jinn is lucky to have someone in his life who is so devoted to him," Ser Darlyn said.

"I am the lucky one, Ser Darlyn," Obi-Wan replied. "Now I must be heading back. It has been an honor to come to know you, Ser Darlyn. Hopefully, our paths will cross again someday."

"Gods willing," Ser Darlyn said before bestowing the traditional Oliani blessing as he had at their first meeting. "May the fates bring only goodness into your life and the lives of those you love, Obi-Wan Kenobi."

"May the Force be with you, Ser Darlyn," Obi-Wan intoned with another formal bow before turning and leaving the small shop.

Returning to the speeder bike, Obi-Wan made a quick side trip to the 'Albatross' to drop off their belongings and then headed back to the Medical Center.

Qui-Gon was still in his requisite two hour healing trance when he arrived so Obi-Wan used the time to contact Minister Shaadir and Moytak. He made them both aware of their impending departure and both men said they would stop by in the early evening for in person goodbyes. He had set aside a clean uniform for his master and was packing up the few items that remained in the infirmary room when Qui-Gon surfaced from his trance.

"Is everything arranged, Obi-Wan?" Qui-Gon asked.

"Yes, Master. Most of our belongings are already on the ship and I've notified everyone," Obi-Wan replied. "Minister Shaadir and Moytak said they would be stopping by here in a little while."

"Okay," Qui-Gon replied but before they could discuss anything else, Master Jufa came over to begin a new set of scans.

Obi-Wan finished the packing and then sat at Qui-Gon's bedside, reading from a datapad as Master Jufa recorded his readings. When the healer finished entering the data, he moved over to the bacta tank, keying in the codes that would filter the dynafermicite from the bacta fluid. After that process had begun he left the room to confer with Healer Sarvai, leaving the other two Jedi alone.

"I went to the curio shop to see Ser Darlyn," Obi-Wan said as he fingered the stone resting on the bedside table.

Qui-Gon's expression grew pensive as he remarked, "The outcome of this situation could have been very different if the Force had not directed you into that shop."

"Or if Ser Darlyn had not been willing to accept my meager twenty dactares as payment for the tiketis," Obi-Wan said. He caught the flicker in Qui-Gon's eyes and continued before his Master could speak. "I know, I know. Trust in the Force and it will provide a solution. I just wish the Force could have been a bit more explicit this time. It would have saved me hours ? no, make that days - of fretting."

"All this worrying is going to have you gray before your years, love," Qui-Gon teased around a yawn.

"Maybe then I won't have people thinking that I'm still an adolescent," Obi-Wan countered as he took Qui-Gon's hand in his. "Now get some rest, Master."

"Worrywart," Qui-Gon snorted even as he closed his eyes and allowed the comfort of sleep to overtake him.

Obi-Wan had read through a full chapter of text before the sound of voices pulled him from his studying. He looked up to see Minister Shaadir and the majority of his family entering the room. His widened and Moytak spoke up immediately.

"Since we couldn't have a proper farewell get together at the house, Mother decided that we should bring the party here."

"Lucky that Qui-Gon's room is in a secluded section of the Medical Center or someone might get upset at all this," Obi-Wan said as he rose from his chair.

"Being married to the Prime Minister has its advantages, Obi-Wan," Vatiana replied with a smile. "I don't think there is a person on staff that would dare to voice a complaint."

The sound of their voices must have awakened Qui-Gon because he opened his eyes and said, "Did I miss someone's name day?"

"Yours, Master," Obi-Wan replied. "Well, seven of them if you want to be technical since you've aged about a year a day since you've been here."

"Brat," Qui-Gon whispered as he used a tendril of the Force to administer an invisible swat to Obi-Wan's backside.

Odan moved into a chair by the bed to talk with Qui-Gon while Vatiana enlisted the services of everyone else to set up food, procure chairs and the like for their meal. An assortment of wonderful aromas filled the room as self-heating serving dishes were set out and opened. Master Jufa reentered the room just as they finished setting out the array. Feo uncorked a bottle of wine, pouring a glass for everyone in the room except Kairylyn. Moytak and Obi-Wan helped him deliver the glasses and when everyone had one Odan rose from his seat.

"I am indebted to you, Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi, both personally and as the Prime Minister of Oliani. As it did seven years ago, your ingenuity, resourcefulness and dedication has helped to return peace to Ambria, though I regret that our peace came at such a great personal cost to you." Odan raised his glass and intoned in an emotion deepened voice, "We are honored to call you both friends. May your next visit to Oliani be under more auspicious circumstances."

"Here, here," the other members of the Shaadir family said as they raised their glasses in return. When they had finished the toast, Kairylyn's soft voice added, "Maybe for Moytak's wedding."

Obi-Wan speared his friend with an amused glare and asked, "Wedding? Have you been holding out on me, buddy?"

"The only allusion to my wedding happening any time soon is in my baby sister's dreams," Moytak replied. "She's been trying valiantly to hook me up with an assortment of her friends' older sisters for the past ten cycles."

"Hey, I'll have to deal with whoever you marry so I want to make sure that it's someone that I get along with," Kairylyn whined.

"I'll make sure to give that the proper consideration when the time comes," Moytak said as he tugged amiably on his sister's long braid.

After the toast, they moved on to their meal, filling plates with Vatiana's savory fare and settling into the chairs they had arranged around Qui-Gon's bed. Conversation during the meal turned to a mélange of topics, with Kairylyn talking about school and Feo and Mirith sharing some of their little ones' antics along with a smattering of other subjects.

The visit continued for quite a while after the meal had been completed. Feo and Master Jufa retreated to the lab area at one point, reviewing data, protocols and any possible difficulties that either of them could foresee related to the trip. At about 2000, Vatiana realized that time was growing short and started collecting the remnants of the meal. The rest of the group took the hint and began their personal goodbyes to the Jedi until only Feo and Moytak remained with them in the sick room.

"I have a ground transport waiting outside to take you to the ship," Moytak said.

Looking down at his current attire, Qui-Gon shifted into a seated position as he said, "I guess I should put on something other than these sleep pants for the ride to the ship."

Obi-Wan took the hint, gathering Qui-Gon's clothing and pulling the privacy curtain around the bed. When he would have assisted, Qui-Gon shooed him away with a teasing, "We won't get to the ship by 2100 if you stay here and help me."

Relenting with a smirk, Obi-Wan left the curtained area and went over to the lab table where the others were congregated. "Need any help?" Master Jufa quickly put him to work and he and Moytak made a trip down to the transport with the medical supplies.

On the way back up in the lift, Moytak asked, "How are you holding up, Obi-Wan? We've had very little chance to talk privately these last few days."

"Okay," Obi-Wan replied, "though I'll be much better when Qui-Gon is back to his old gray-haired self."

Not able to resist teasing his friend, Moytak added with a sly smile, "I'd think you'd be making the most of the rejuvenated version, especially in private."

Obi-Wan's grin became almost feral as he stage whispered, "Let's just say that if he stayed this age and was completely healthy, we'd both be confined to the Healer's Ward for exhaustion within a month."

"But think how much fun you'd have getting there," Moytak joked before the lift door opened and the personal conversation ended. When they entered the sick room, Qui-Gon was dressed and everyone was ready so the group headed to the ground transport.

The trip to the hangar only took about ten minutes. Two members of the crew were waiting at the landing ramp and they helped them load the equipment. Another twenty minutes was spent setting up all the medical equipment and then they were ready to depart.

After a final set of goodbyes, Master Jufa herded Qui-Gon into the converted sleep quarters while Obi-Wan headed up to the cockpit. "Is everything ready for take off?" he asked as he approached the pilot's seat.

"We can request clearance for lift off as soon as everything is ready," Captain Embree explained. "Is all the medical equipment secured?"

"Yes," Obi-Wan replied.

"Then I'll request clearance. Let the others know," Embree replied before turning his full attention back to his controls.

Obi-Wan returned to their onboard quarters to find Master Jufa and Qui-Gon already secured into two of the pull down seats used for the shift into hyperspace. Strapping himself into the third, Obi-Wan announced, "Captain Embree is requesting clearance for departure so we should be lifting off momentarily."

"Good," Master Jufa said. "I'd like Qui-Gon to be able to settle into a healing trance as soon as possible, preferably for the majority of the trip.."

"Don't you think that's a little excessive?" Qui-Gon snapped.

"The emptiness of space travel is difficult for someone as strong in the Living Force as you are on the best of days, Qui-Gon," Meneit countered. "A healing trance will help you conserve your energy and keep from undoing the progress we've made."

"I suppose," Qui-Gon admitted reluctantly.

"And it will definitely make the trip go faster for you," Obi-Wan added with a smirk.

"Okay, you win," Qui-Gon agreed just as they felt the repulsor lifts engage..

They remained restrained in their seats until the ship jumped into hyperspace and Captain Embree signaled the all clear. Obi-Wan resecured the jump seats and took the few things he and Qui-Gon would need out of their bags while Master Jufa conducted a cursory exam on his Master.

When the exam was completed, Qui-Gon remained lying fully clothed on the bed as Master Jufa put away his scanner and walked to the door. "I'm going to head to my quarters to meditate and sleep. Drop into that healing trance, Qui-Gon, and call me if you need me, Obi-Wan."

When the door closed behind the healer, Obi-Wan turned to Qui-Gon and chuckled, "You heard the man."

"Don't you start," Qui-Gon grumbled before holding out a hand to Obi-Wan. "Now come here. I want to lay with you in my arms for a bit. The healing trance can wait a little while."

Obi-Wan walked over to the bed, pulled his Master into a seated position and knelt on the floor to remove Qui-Gon's boots. When he finished, Qui-Gon stood and they worked together to strip off his clothing. After Qui-Gon had settled under the covers, Obi-Wan removed his own boots and clothing, put everything away and then slipped into bed beside him.

Few words were exchanged as they slipped into each other's arms, content to trade light kisses and gentle caresses. It was a comfortable silence, both men basking in the solace of their love and their bond, not to mention the more tangible pleasure of their naked bodies pressed up against one another.

They lay like that for quite some time until Obi-Wan realized that Qui-Gon was beginning to doze off. With a last gentle kiss, he pulled back to meet Qui-Gon's gaze and said, "Time for that healing trance, Master. I'll rouse you when it's time for first-meal."

"Between you and Meneit, I'm not sure who is the sterner taskmaster," Qui-Gon grumbled.

"But I have more compelling ulterior motives," Obi-Wan replied with a smirk.. "I'm hoping that if you get enough rest on the trip home, Master Jufa will agree to you shifting to outpatient treatment. That way, we can do much more than sleep the next time we share a bed."

"I'll hold you to that," Qui-Gon replied before pressing a much deeper kiss to Obi-Wan's lips.

"You have my word on it," Obi-Wan agreed, pressing his half hard penis against his lover's thigh to accentuate his words.

Qui-Gon settled onto his back at that point, closing his eyes and slowing his breathing as his body slipped into the healing trance.

Obi-Wan shifted onto his side, propped his head on one hand and studied his lover much as he had the morning before Qui-Gon began his treatment. The softness of post adolescent youthfulness that had been there that morning had faded from the beloved face, creating a more angular line that added maturity and strength. Both hair and beard still showed no traces of silver and only the barest hint of a laugh line jutted out from the corner of his right eye. The skin of Qui-Gon's neck still held the taut tone of early manhood, as did that of his forehead and cheeks.

While memorizing those changes, Obi-Wan allowed his thoughts to drift through everything that had happened since the day Master Windu handed him the mission datapad in the Council chambers. Qui-Gon's rare episode of prescience had been eerily accurate and the sense of impending calamity had been more than warranted. The mission had been as unpleasant as they had expected with treacherous politicians, surveillance equipment and physical attacks. The unknown factor surrounding Qui-Gon's injuries had been unnerving on so many levels and only by the grace of the Force and the foresight of an elderly shopkeeper was he on the road to recovery.

Qui-Gon's reputation as an uncooperative patient was well deserved so with that added to the unknown element of the treatment, Obi-Wan knew that the next few tens would not be without additional challenges. But as Qui-Gon had so often intoned, 'What doesn't kill you makes you stronger', and nothing they had been through in their joint lives exemplified that credo more than this mission. He drifted off to sleep wondering which one of them was going to come out of this the most changed.

Epilogue

Obi-Wan stood two steps behind and to the right of his master as Qui-Gon and Master Jufa answered innumerable questions from the various Councilors concerning the current state of Qui-Gon's health. It had been six tens since they had arrived back at the Temple from Ambria. The treatment regimen that Master Jufa had devised to counteract the affect of the jeunsenotiaum had been ongoing for most of that time, only completed in the previous ten. These last ten days had been spent on a myriad of tests to gauge Qui-Gon's physical condition and stamina and to insure that he hadn't suffered any permanent damage from the experience.

As the two masters reassured the Council that Qui-Gon was fully recovered and ready to go back on the mission roster, Obi-Wan scrutinized his master. The man standing before him once again bore the form of an extremely fit albeit middle aged human male. The long chestnut hair was again streaked with silver and Obi-Wan couldn't decide if there were actually more of the silver strands or if he had just become accustomed to seeing the solid brown. The laugh lines gracing the corners of Qui-Gon's eyes and mouth and the lines that furrowed across his forehead had also returned recreating the mature features that Obi-Wan had grown up loving. As intriguing as elements of the rejuvenated Qui-Gon had been, he was thankful to have his master and lover back encased in the older and more familiar anatomy.

As Obi-Wan had expected, there had been a few rough spots during Qui-Gon's recuperation, but true to his word, Qui-Gon had been open with him each step of the way, sharing concerns and frustrations and as easily as he shared progress and contentment. This paradigm shift from Qui-Gon's previous protectiveness had done wonders for their relationship and they had come through the whole experience stronger and more committed in their partnership, both as Master and Apprentice and as lovers.

The sight of Master Jufa bowing to the Council and making his way towards the door, pulled Obi-Wan from his reckoning. He moved quickly to the center of the Council Chamber and took his place at Qui-Gon's side, recognizing that the Council must have something in store for them since they had not been dismissed with the master healer.

Mace Windu studied them intently for a long moment before finally addressing Qui-Gon. "Chancellor Valorum contacted us this morning asking for a Jedi negotiation team for a low-profile mission." He held out a datapad and Obi-Wan stepped forward to take it, flashes of the last time they had stood in the center of this chamber sweeping through his mind. Bowing his head politely, Obi-Wan moved back to stand beside Qui-Gon as Mace continued, "A ship is on standby, available to depart as soon as you and Obi-Wan are ready."

"Nice to know that our skills have been missed," Qui-Gon said with just a hint of sarcasm. "Anything we need to know that isn't on the mission dossier Obi-Wan was given?"

"Have all the information, you do," Master Yoda said, speaking for the first time since they had entered the Council Chamber. "Routine the mission should be. Good for you both getting back in the field will be."

Qui-Gon took a moment to share a disbelieving smile with Obi-Wan at Master Yoda's choice of words before asking, "And just where is this easy and routine mission that you are sending us on, my Master?"

"It's a relatively remote planet in the Mid Rim," Mace answered, "called Naboo."

The End