Master Apprentice Archive Tiercel Quick search:

Archive: Master/Apprentice, SWAL, my page (http://flame.slashcity.com/index2.html)

Category: AR, Romance, Angst, First-Time

Rating: NC-17

Warnings: none

Feedback: This is my first long fic, and I would really appreciate feedback,long or short, positive or critical, on-list or off.

Summary: Obi-Wan is sent to attend his mandatory classes in riding and animal husbandry. He is befriended by Master Animal Healer Qui-Gon Jinn. After Obi-Wan helps the healer through a serious crisis, Qui-Gon offers to repay him by teaching him to ride. He also introduces him to falconry. Soon the friendship develops into something more, and Obi-Wan is confronted with a difficult decision.

Thanks to my beta-reader Liz for her wonderful suggestions and sharp-eyed corrections which made this a better story. Thanks also to Rose for her supportive comments.

Special thanks to Calypte, my padawan, who read this story as I wrote it. Her support and enthusiasm meant a great deal to me as I blundered through the process.

Note: A tiercel (rhymes with fearful) is a male hawk, or more precisely, a male falcon. It is so called because the male falcon is generally 1/3 smaller than the female.

Chapter 1

Obi-Wan Kenobi shifted his weight from one foot to the other. Although he stood in a circle of fellow padawans, he was at least a head taller and several years older than the rest of the Jedi trainees. He felt out of place.

The group of apprentices had been sent to the planet Grathos to receive training in riding and general animal care. Centuries ago, the Jedi had recognized the need for their ranks to be well-trained in riding the common sorts of animal transport used in the Republic, as well as the fundamentals of animal husbandry. All too frequently, a Jedi found his life dependent on his ability to ride and maintain a beast of burden.

So, the Order had established a relationship with a large establishment specializing in breeding all types of animals put to such use. A group of padawans was dispatched each year to the large facility for a stay of four standard weeks, during which time they received their mandatory education in riding and animal husbandry.

A series of scheduling conflicts, ill-timed exams, and a severe case of Alterian flu had conspired to place Obi-Wan in the class five years past the norm. The result was his presence among a class of comparative youngsters.

Truth be told, Obi-Wan had harbored a secret hope that if he delayed this class long enough, he would be allowed to waive the requirement. He really had no interest in animal care or in learning to ride. Oh, he knew he must develop a basic competency in the subject, but he had no desire to spend such a significant part of his remaining apprenticeship devoted to shoveling manure and grappling with beasts. When he had tentatively broached the idea of skipping the class altogether, he'd met with a brick wall in the form of his master. He would take the class, without doubt.

He had reluctantly accepted his duty, and dug into the assigned preparatory reading. The ranch bred a wide variety of animals brought from all over the galaxy, some from places far beyond their system. He would be expected to ride dewbacks, eopies, rontos, banthas, and several animals he'd never seen before. For instance, the ranch staff was devoting a great deal of effort to developing the horse, a promising new beast of burden discovered during an exploratory trip to a distant galaxy.

On board the transport, Obi-Wan had resolved to make the best of the situation. With introductions underway at the stableyards, he was hard-pressed to remember his resolution. The padawans were meeting the staff and instructors who would be leading them through their lessons over the next weeks. A large and diverse group of people were present, but Obi-Wan's misgivings led his mind to stray. He had stopped paying any attention a good while ago, instead looking with dread at the rontos in the distant pasture.

A sudden snap at the back of his mind brought him abruptly to the present. Someone in the group had used a sharp flick of the Force to rudely interrupt his mental meandering. He glanced surreptitiously around the circle, trying to ascertain who might be the Force-sensitive individual who could read his distraction and deliver such a curt reprimand.

One of the stable boys? Doubtful. The business manager? Obi-Wan thought he'd once learned that Sakiyans were not Force-sensitive. One of the other apprentices? No, none would dare tease the Senior Padawan.

Well, the answer would be made plain soon enough.

His attention now firmly back where it belonged, Obi-Wan heard a Twi'lek apprentice animal healer introduce herself as Kee. She stood next to a tall man whose tolerance seemed to be stretched thin. The man looked like he was even more anxious for the introductions to be over than Obi-Wan.

"Qui-Gon Jinn, Master Animal Healer," was the blunt self- introduction.

Perhaps he was the Force-sensitive individual in the group, Obi-Wan considered. He knew that many healers were gifted in the use of the Force, and supposed animal healers were no different. Still, why would this man care whether he was daydreaming?

It was something to ponder. Something to learn. As the meeting droned on, Obi-Wan regretfully acknowledged he would have plenty of time for such pursuits in the coming days.

It did not take long to discover the nature of the Master Animal Healer's Force abilities. When Obi-Wan reported for his first lesson the following morning, he was intrigued by the interaction he observed.

A stable boy met him at the large barn, obviously out of breath from running to make his appointment with the Jedi apprentice. Obi-Wan smiled an easy greeting, sympathetic to the youth and his seemingly overwhelming responsibilities.

The young boy bowed. "Please, Sir Jedi, forgive me. I will have your horse here in a moment."

"It's all right," Obi-Wan reassured. "I am in no hurry."

The youth scuttled off to the stables. He stood outside the door of a small office wringing his hands in indecision. Obi-Wan watched as he finally walked into the room and stood quietly, waiting to be recognized.

The master sat at a small, neat desk. Obi-Wan could hear their interaction from his vantage point near the pasture fence. After a moment, the healer looked up from his datapad and acknowledged the boy. "Yes, C'idra?"

"Please, sir. I'm awfully sorry to bother you, but if I might ask...." At this point he seemed to loose his nerve.

Large blue eyes settled on the boy. "You have already interrupted me, C'idra. You may as well state your purpose." Qui-Gon's voice was firm, but not unkind.

"I need to fetch a horse from the east pasture, and it's so far. Even if I run all the way, it will take too long. I'll be late for school." C'idra's voice implied the weight of the world rested on his shoulders.

"And why is this my concern?" asked Qui-Gon pointedly.

"Please sir, would you call the horse for me? He'll come for you, and I won't be late for class."

"Why should I encourage your tardiness by doing your work for you, hmm?" the master chided.

"I promise it will just be this once, Master Qui-Gon. It won't happen again."

Such sincerity, Obi-Wan thought wryly. He wondered how many times the boy had made that promise.

The older man stared at C'idra, considering his reply. The small body squirmed under his scrutiny.

The healer finally smiled. "Very well. Just this once, mind you, I will help. But I expect to hear from your teachers that you are working hard at your studies, and I will see you here at the stables immediately after school. Tardiness is not an excuse for shirking your duties."

"Yes, Master. Thank you, Master!"

Qui-Gon rose from his chair. C'idra's short legs did double-time in an effort to keep up with the healer's long strides. They ended up at the wide stable door, looking into the pasture. The position kept them within Obi-Wan's line of sight.

"Which animal do you want?"

"The gray mare, sir. Storm." A small finger pointed at a group of beasts grazing the lush grass in a distant field.

Obi-Wan saw the man's eyes squint in concentration. Barely loud enough for the apprentice to hear, the healer spoke as he waved his hand. "Come, horse."

Obi-Wan saw the animal's head rise instantly and her handsome face turn toward the stables. The animal started toward them at a trot. There was no way the horse could have heard that command, Obi-Wan thought. At least not with her ears, she couldn't.

"Thank you, Master Qui-Gon. I promise I will be back right after school." The boy's eyes shown with gratitude.

"I know you will, C'idra." A work-worn hand ruffled the boy's black hair. "You never did tell me why you need that horse."

C'idra gestured toward the fence where Obi-Wan stood. "It's for the Jedi. Storm is going to be his assigned animal for the class."

Qui-Gon spared only a quick glance toward the padawan, then focused back on the child. "Hmph. You should have let the Jedi get his own horse."

With that, the healer strode back into the stables, and resumed his position behind the small desk.

So this was the Force-sensitive individual who had taken Obi-Wan to task for his inattention. Was it just a general disdain for a perceived lapse in duty, the younger man wondered. Or was the healer just a grouch?

Obi-Wan walked gingerly down the path from the dormitory to the barn, mentally cataloging every screaming muscle in his back and legs. How could the simple act of riding put such a strain on his body?

It looked so easy. Just sit straight, guide the animal, and hold on. Right. And sparring was just a matter of swinging a lightsaber around.

Despite his attempts to put logic over emotion, he had to admit that the sheer power of the animals intimidated Obi- Wan. They seemed to challenge his right to a dominant position in their relationship. The easy adaptability of the younger padawans contributed to his feeling of ineptitude. Was he already too old to learn such things?

He'd spent time in meditation that afternoon, trying to discover why he was having such difficulty with his place on this planet, with this group. He felt as though something was missing.

He knew that part of it was a kind of homesickness. He missed his master. In the last several years, Obi-Wan had only spent a few days separated from Master Li and he missed her easy company and gentle reassurance. In many ways, his master was his best friend. He wished they were able to talk now. Li would have cheered him up with a clever joke, and offered wise words to guide him through this experience.

Instead, Obi-Wan had only himself to rely on. His usual approach to such sticky problems was to confront them head-on, which was what put him on his present course toward the barn that housed many of the life-forms raised on the ranch. The rest of the padawans were working on lessons that he had long since completed. His comparatively advanced age and experience left him with free time on his hands. Maybe if he spent some of that free time with the animals, he would come to appreciate them more.

A warm, earthy smell met his nostrils as he entered the building. Obi-Wan strolled down a row of stalls, leaning over the ones that were occupied in order to pat or scratch a snuffling nose. The barn was large and reflected the wealth of the ranching family. Obi-Wan mused that he had seen many worlds where the sentient life-forms lived in far worse accommodations than these beasts were accustomed to.

The Living Force was strong here. He opened himself to it, and succeeded in releasing some of his unease. It didn't make sense, he reasoned. The animals were as much a part of the Force as he was. Maybe that was why he didn't feel right in his attempt to subdue them to his needs.

As Obi-Wan calmed himself and relaxed, he noticed a quiet but urgent voice carrying from deeper in the building. He wandered toward the back of the stables, crossing over to the next aisle. Surveying the area, he caught a glimpse of a broad back bent over in one of the stalls.

"Ssh, easy now, little mother." Qui-Gon Jinn was offering gentle words of reassurance to a black horse, whom even Obi-Wan could tell was pregnant. The animal shifted back and forth, trying to find a way to ease her obvious discomfort.

Qui-Gon noticed Obi-Wan's presence immediately. "Good, I can use some help." The healer's tone brooked no chance for a negative response. Obi-Wan would do whatever needed to be done.

"Move up to her head and keep her quiet. I need to concentrate on the foal."

Obi-Wan moved carefully to the back of the stall and began rubbing the horse's neck with what he hoped were soothing strokes He mimicked the tone he'd heard as he approached the stall, offering the murmurs of comfort he'd heard the healer croon to the distraught animal. The mare's eyes were wide with fright, but she responded to the gentle reassurances. Obi-Wan guessed that this was the animal's first foal.

Once he had established a comforting pattern, Obi-Wan began to watch the healer ply his skills. Qui-Gon's large hands passed over the distended belly of the mare, assessing the source of the animal's distress. He leaned into her side, closing his eyes. Obi-Wan felt a surge in the Force as the man drew energy into himself and funneled it to the mother-to-be.

Incredibly, Obi-Wan saw a shift in the protruding belly. It was as though the young one inside was doing katas. He swore he saw an elbow, or maybe it was a knee, as the foal turned inside its constrained space.

Qui-Gon's focus did not waver until the movements ceased. The padawan noticed the man and the horse relax simultaneously, and the healer moved to the mare's hindquarters. With the pain lessened, the birth progressed quickly.

"Would you like to come and watch?" Qui-Gon asked. Obi- Wan looked up to meet smiling blue eyes.

He didn't need to be asked twice. With a final pat and word of assurance to the animal, Obi-Wan moved to stand behind Qui-Gon. He could feel the healer's continued use of the Force as he offered support and strength to the animal whose prolonged period of strain had resulted in noticeable fatigue.

"Just one more push, little mother," Qui-Gon coaxed, his hand gliding over the mare's flanks.

There was a nose, and then a head, and then the foal was there, shiny and squirming on the hay-covered floor of the stall. Qui-Gon showed Obi-Wan how to rub down the fresh young animal with the hay, cleaning away the remnants of birth and stimulating its breathing. Soon mama's nose was pushing them aside, and her long pink tongue took over their task.

Obi-Wan sat back on his haunches. "That was amazing! What did you do? What was wrong?"

"The little one was turned in such a way that it could not make its entrance into the world." The healer smiled happily at the pair of animals, enjoying the gift of new life.

"And you used the Force to manipulate the position of the foal?" Obi-Wan asked, still in awe of what he'd witnessed.

"With my big hands I certainly could not do a direct manipulation." Qui-Gon flashed his broad palm and long fingers as evidence of his statement. "Besides, the Force is a gentler means of putting things right."

The two men stood watching the horse and her young one as instinct exerted its influence. Obi-Wan felt ensconced in the Living Force.

Qui-Gon turned and focused on the younger man, seeming to realize for the first time that he was out of place. "Why aren't you with the rest of the Jedi padawans?" he queried.

"They are working at studies I have already completed. I'm quite a bit older than the rest." Obi-Wan felt suddenly self-conscious before this tremendously capable man.

"And I thought you were just tall for your age," Qui-Gon commented with a raised eyebrow.

"That is something I have never before been accused of," Obi-Wan laughed. "Since I am presently unoccupied, I thought I would spend some time getting to know the animals."

When he got no response, Obi-Wan looked at the healer, deciding whether to put forth an effort at making friends with this rather formidable man. Well, who better to teach him about animals than a master animal healer?

"Is there anything I can help you with?" he offered.

Qui-Gon took measure of the padawan, and Obi-Wan saw the deliberation in his eyes. Finally he smiled and motioned down the long row of stalls. "I can always use help."

The remainder of the afternoon Obi-Wan spent working at the side of the master healer. He held tools and equipment, hooves and noses, as Qui-Gon worked his way through the patients of the day. Obi-Wan was impressed by the calm assurance the man exuded, and his easy control over the animals. He was so enthralled, he forgot about his sore muscles and homesickness for his master.

When Obi-Wan realized that the light coming through the barn door was fading, he was surprised that the day had spun away. He had to get back to his quarters to help prepare the evening meal. He thanked Qui-Gon for allowing him to tag along for the afternoon, and said he hoped he had not been in the way.

Qui-Gon paused before replying, as though this was a weighty matter requiring deliberation. When he spoke, his tone was serious and a bit surprised.

"No. I quite enjoyed your company."

The care with which the statement was spoken made Obi-Wan feel as though he'd been paid the highest compliment. He smiled self-consciously in acknowledgement and turned to leave. He was almost to the door when Qui-Gon called out to him.

"May I ask you a question?"

Obi-Wan turned back. "Certainly."

Qui-Gon's voice was still grave, but there was a twinkle in his eyes. "What is your name?"

The young man gave a quick laugh as he answered. "Obi-Wan Kenobi."

"Good night, Obi-Wan Kenobi. I'll see you tomorrow." Qui-Gon gave a quick wave of a hand, then turned and walked away, not awaiting a reply.

Obi-Wan stood for a moment, registering the presumption in the healer's statement. He knew that Qui-Gon was right. He would be back tomorrow. Smiling to himself, he started back to the dorm room and his supper.

Thus began a pattern that continued for many days. Obi- Wan would rise early to feed his horse and clean out her stall, then meet his fellow padawans for classes. He learned what to feed an eopi, how to saddle a dewback (a process he hoped he would never have to repeat), and just how terrible the breath of a bantha smells. He succeeded, more or less, in riding most of the beasts put before him. The horse, however, remained a challenge. No matter how hard he tried, he remained stiff and ungainly astride Storm.

In the afternoons, he joined Qui-Gon and his assistants as they tended the animals. He learned a great deal about animal husbandry from the master, most of which he would probably never use as a Jedi Knight. The invaluable lesson he did learn was the importance of a strong connection to the Living Force.

Obi-Wan knew he had much to learn about the Living Force. His master had tried to guide him in this matter, but it was a deficiency only Obi-Wan could remedy. Spending so much time with Qui-Gon had given him insight into the interrelationships of all living things, and the spirit that pulsed within each of them.

What drew him back day after day, though, was the master healer himself. Obi-Wan was captivated by the man's caring devotion to the animals in his charge. He realized now that what he had originally taken for surliness was instead an intense focus on the welfare of his patients, which allowed little time or energy for trivial pursuits, like catering to Jedi apprentices.

After the third time he caught himself daydreaming about the healer, Obi-Wan had to admit that he was also physically attracted to the man. Qui-Gon's broad shoulders and long legs were distracting enough, but his hands! Thoughts of those large, rough hands occupied the padawan's mind long into the night.

Chapter 2

The days on this part of the planet were beautiful, Obi- Wan thought. He tilted his face toward the warm sun as he headed toward the barn. He could readily understand why the staff enjoyed living here. It would be easy to make a life in such an agreeable place.

The young man glanced into Qui-Gon's office, but did not find the healer in residence. He cast out with his Force sense, but found no evidence of the man in the area. Obi- Wan wandered up and down the rows of stalls, poking his head into the corners and checking on animals they had treated together in the previous days. Reluctantly he came to the conclusion that Qui-Gon was not there.

On his trip up the furthest row of eopi stalls, the Jedi apprentice came across Kee. He greeted the apprentice animal healer and inquired as to Qui-Gon's whereabouts.

"He went into the city, sir," replied the girl. "Something to do with helping the civil authorities."

Well, that was unexpected. "Do you know when he will return?" asked Obi-Wan.

"I expect sometime this evening. Master Qui-Gon never leaves the animals for more than a day."

Obi-Wan offered his thanks as the girl bent to resume her work. He was surprised at how disappointed he felt. Searching his feelings, he discovered that it was more than not spending an afternoon with Qui-Gon. He was hurt that the man had not mentioned his trip into the city. Somehow Obi-Wan felt that the healer should have informed him of this interruption in their daily routine.

With an afternoon suddenly free, Obi-Wan had to decide how to best put it to productive use. Katas, he thought. He'd spent so much time in the previous days in his lessons and assisting in the stables, he had grown lax in meeting his customary practice schedule.

Because of the regular visits by Jedi apprentices, the ranch had set aside several large rooms as practice rings, padding the floors and equipping them with the various items the padawans needed for their workouts. Obi-Wan headed toward those facilities, looking forward to the exercise.

Rather than spend the time by himself, he sought out two of the older padawans and had an enjoyable workout sparring and coaching the pair in some of the forms he had already mastered. When they had finished, he demonstrated the kata he was currently learning. It included several leaps and somersaults, which Obi-Wan executed with great skill and a bit of flourish. The audience was most appreciative.

The afternoon's activities served to sharpen the appetite, making dinner seem especially tasty that night. Obi-Wan sat with the two young ones he had sparred with, and was touched by the pride they felt in the attention he paid to them. He realized that in spending so much time with Qui- Gon, he may have been neglecting his duties as the elder padawan of the group. He vowed to be more aware of the needs of the other apprentices, and to help when he could.

As dinner wound to a close and the students began to drift back to their rooms, Obi-Wan caught himself thinking of the healer, and why he might have gone into the city. Obi-Wan contemplated the last of the tea in his cup, wondering if Qui-Gon had come back. Should he check?

He was sorely tempted to. He imagined the small rush he would feel when he saw the healer's eyes turn toward him. Those blue eyes fired something inside him that he did not quite understand.

On the other hand, why should he go chasing after the man, acting like a fawning child? His pride told him that if Qui-Gon hadn't seen fit to tell him about his trip to the city, he did not need to go running to the stables to see if he had returned. It wasn't as if he couldn't go a full day without seeing him.

So instead of following the path to the barn, Obi-Wan steered his steps to his room. He settled on his bed and took up a text on aeronautics, a subject he normally enjoyed. But try as he might, his thoughts kept turning to a certain tall, handsome man.

'Stop that!' Obi-Wan berated himself, but realized it was for naught. He tossed the text to the floor and turned out the reading light, hoping that sleep would come quickly.

It was not to be. Just as the young man felt himself beginning to drift into slumber, he was jolted back to reality by a harsh pounding on his door. He heard his name called out in a voice that registered grave concern. Obi-Wan jumped to the door, sure that some catastrophe had befallen one of the other padawans. But instead of a member of their group, he found Kee, her eyes wide with fright.

Words rushed out between gasps for breath. She'd obviously been running. "Please, Obi-Wan, it's Master Qui-Gon. He's sick. I can't help him. He likes you. You have to help."

Obi-Wan scrambled for his boots and cloak. He couldn't imagine what dire situation would send the apprentice to him for help.

They ran together to the barn, where Obi-Wan saw a light glowing on the upper floor. He realized that it must be coming from Qui-Gon's private quarters. The Jedi apprentice hesitated as they entered the structure. He'd never been in Qui-Gon's rooms. The desperate youth grabbed Obi-Wan by the hand, though, and dragged him up the stairs. She expected Obi-Wan to save her master from whatever peril he was suffering.

The wave of anger and pain which struck Obi-Wan as he reached the top of the stairs nearly drove him to his knees. It was a palpable force, emanating from Qui-Gon.

The healer paced back and forth across the room like some great, angry giant. His boots pounded the floorboards as he gestured wildly with his hands. He spoke, but in a tone Obi-Wan would never have imagined coming from the usually gentle man. His words were vicious.

"Such putrid scum have no right to live. They should be thrown into a sarlacc pit."

The words flowed as though from a poisonous fountain. Obi-Wan was stunned by the sheer darkness of it. He stood against the wall, watching as the man paced relentlessly, power and anger driving him to constant motion. Qui-Gon had not noticed the arrival of the Jedi and his own apprentice.

"Kee, what is he talking about? What's happened?"

The young girl's eyes were wide as she stared at her raging master. "I don't know. He was upset when he returned from the city, and it just got worse and worse. He won't talk to me."

Obi-Wan nodded, but he hadn't the faintest idea of what he should do. He knew that something was seriously wrong. He'd had only limited exposure to the Dark Side on missions with his master, but it was enough to recognize it when he saw it. Darkness was swirling through this room. It made him shiver.

He put his hand on the shoulder of the apprentice healer in a way that he hoped inspired calm. "Leave us, please, Kee. I will help your master." In truth, he wasn't sure what he would do, but he wanted the girl out of harm's way. He was relieved when he saw her disappear down the steps.

How could he help Qui-Gon? This was a master, an animal healer instead of a Jedi, but still trained in the ways of the Force. He knew the dangers of the Dark Side. If he was being pulled into the blackness, what could a padawan do? Tendrils of fear crept into Obi-Wan's mind.

He thought about what his master would do if she were here. He thought about the wise words he'd heard from all of his teachers.

Obi-Wan realized, then, that he was also trained in the ways of the Force. Even if that training was not yet complete, he would use it the best way that he could. Something inside him compelled him to action. He had to save this man.

Obi-Wan closed his eyes to center himself. He reached out to the Living Force, seeking its presence in the animals around them in the barn, then in the surging life of the ranch, extending out to the Unifying Force that kept the planet in balance. Lastly he searched for and found the Force in himself. He felt the power of it grow inside him, and wrapped it around himself like a shield. He imagined himself going into battle. It gave him confidence to attempt to wrest control over the situation.

He watched Qui-Gon pace across the room once more, and with a swift movement stepped in front of him. He put his hands up, and called to him using as much of a Force- suggestion as he could bring to bear.

"Stop, Qui-Gon."

He was shocked when the distraught man did just that. Qui-Gon's eyes focused on his face with a quizzical expression, as though he were struggling to recognize him.

"It's Obi-Wan Kenobi." That got no response. "Qui-Gon, something is very wrong. Tell me what's happened." The younger man carefully retained his intense focus, hoping the Force would stay with him. He needed to know what was at the base of this.

"Those bastards," Qui-Gon spat out. "They have no right to live. They are cruel beyond measure." The big man moved to step around Obi-Wan, but he moved with him, blocking his way.

"Who, Qui-Gon? Tell me."

"Those dregs of the galaxy." Qui-Gon waved his hand in the general direction of the city. "Those so-called animal breeders." For the first time, Qui-Gon actually looked at Obi-Wan in a meaningful way, as though he knew to whom he was speaking.

"It was appalling. The condition the animals were in...." Qui-Gon shuddered and shook his head. "Not even a Sith should be subjected to such misery."

With that, Qui-Gon went deathly pale, and bent over at the waist clutching his stomach. He wheeled around and raced down the stairs. Obi-Wan followed as fast as he could, and found the healer vomiting at the door of the barn.

When the illness passed, Qui-Gon leaned back against the door frame, shaking and drenched with sweat. Obi-Wan allowed him a few moments' rest before he took the master's arm and draped it over his shoulders, helping the weakened man to reach the stairs. Slowly they struggled up each step. Obi-Wan began to wonder if Qui-Gon would collapse, and called on the Force to get them both to his quarters.

Qui-Gon sank heavily to the floor as soon as they reached his room. When he looked at Obi-Wan, the madness was gone from his eyes, but they were still glazed with anger and resentment.

Obi-Wan sat directly in front of Qui-Gon and reached for his hand. He took a calming breath, preparing himself before he spoke.

"Tell me, Qui-Gon."

Out poured the story. The local authorities had asked Qui-Gon to accompany them on their investigation of a rumored animal-mill. For months, the officials had been searching for the source of high-priced, and highly illegal animals that were passing out of their province and off the planet. When they finally determined the exact location, they asked the renowned master animal healer to accompany them, fearing what they would find.

It was worse than any of them had imagined. The number of animals was enormous, and the conditions were repugnant. Qui-Gon had worked for an entire day to save those life- forms he could, and to give relief to the remainder by releasing their spirits into the Living Force. For a man dedicated to healing, it was horrific.

Obi-Wan listened in shock. No wonder Qui-Gon had reacted so strongly. He had been exposed to a whirling cesspool of indecency for the entire day, submerging himself in the misery of hundreds of innocent life-forms.

Even now, Qui-Gon sneered as he spoke of the individuals that had been responsible for the animal-mill. He might no longer be pacing, but he was not out of danger, Obi-Wan realized.

"If the civil authorities do not deal with these criminals, I will. I swear, I will hunt them down, and treat them just as they treated those poor animals." Venom dripped from the words.

Obi-Wan saw the Darkness flowing around them. He centered himself once again firmly in the Light, and grasped both of Qui-Gon's hands, attempting to exert his will over the healer's.

"No, Qui-Gon you will not."

The master's face registered surprise at being contradicted. He tried to pull away, but Obi-Wan's hands held tight.

Obi-Wan reached out mentally to the man before him. "You are a healer, Qui-Gon. Your life is dedicated to helping creatures who cannot help themselves. It is not within you to harm even the beings that perpetrated this evil."

Obi-Wan channeled the Force through his hands to those of the master. The transfer of energy made his hands tingle. "You are committed to the use of the Force for the benefit of all life."

He locked eyes with Qui-Gon, and searched their depths. There. He saw a flicker. For a second, he saw the anger fade into doubt.

He was teetering on the edge, Obi-Wan knew. This was the moment when he would win or lose. Obi-Wan reached out with his entire being, baring himself to the Force, trying to anchor the man before him.

He was doing all that he could, but Qui-Gon had to do his part. He had to choose the Light.

"Come back to me Qui-Gon," Obi-Wan pleaded. "Don't leave."

And then he felt it, a tentative touch on his mind, seeking, needing. Obi-Wan focused on that mental connection, sending reassurance and strength. He felt a bridge stretch between himself and the other man.

Qui-Gon began to shake. Obi-Wan could feel a change in the room, subtle at first, and then stronger. A fresh wave of the Living Force swept through the barn, cleansing it of the vile energy.

The crisis had passed. The healer fell forward, grasping at Obi-Wan's shoulders. Qui-Gon did not cry. He did not make a sound, but his chest heaved with a release of tension and emotion.

Relief poured from Obi-Wan as he comforted the man who clung to him, crooning reassurance. "You're a good man, Qui-Gon Jinn. You accomplished much today. You rescued many animals from suffering, and gave relief to those you could not save."

They sat that way, on the floor of Qui-Gon's rooms, late into the night. Obi-Wan wasn't aware of the time that passed, only of the exhaustion that crept over both of them. They fell asleep finally, with the master still in the arms of the Jedi apprentice.

Chapter 3

Obi-Wan awoke, sore and disoriented. It took him several seconds to recognize the floor on which he'd been sleeping. He sat up rubbing his eyes, and suddenly remembered what had happened the night before.

Qui-Gon was nowhere to be seen, but Obi-Wan could hear noises coming from what he presumed was a 'fresher. Assessing his own condition, the apprentice realized he too would benefit greatly from a thorough scrubbing. He stood and stretched, unsure of what to do. He really needed to get a shower and go to his classes, but he did not want to leave without checking on Qui-Gon.

Before he could decide whether to leave, Qui-Gon came into the room, a towel wrapped around his waist and another in use to dry his hair. Obi-Wan's breath caught in his chest at the sight of the man. Force, he was handsome!

He blushed when he realized he'd been staring, but decided that he'd probably been unobserved, since Qui-Gon's vision was blocked by the towel he rubbed over his head. Obi-Wan didn't know where to look, and decided to study the wall.

"I hope I didn't wake you," Qui-Gon said as he approached.

Obi-Wan shook his head, and tried for a light-hearted tone. "No, but the comfort level of your floor had reached its limit." He met the taller man's eyes, searching for signs of his well-being.

Qui-Gon stepped close enough for Obi-Wan to smell the soap on his skin. He reached out and squeezed the younger man's shoulder as he spoke. "Thank you, Obi-Wan Kenobi. You saved my life last night. "

"You were in distress. I did what I could," Obi-Wan said dismissively.

"No, it was much more than that. Without your strength, I would not be standing here right now. I am in your debt. "

Obi-Wan smiled and nodded, deciding the most gracious thing to do was to acknowledge his help so that they could get past this moment.

Qui-Gon, however, had other ideas. "Will you let me repay you in some small way?"

"It's not necessary, really." Obi-Wan wished Qui-Gon would just let the matter drop.

Instead, Qui-Gon took a half-step closer, and Obi-Wan suddenly found it difficult to breathe. Who had taken all the oxygen from the room?

"Please?"

Obi-Wan realized how important this was to the man. "What do you propose?"

Qui-Gon stepped back and nodded his head. "Today I will teach you to ride. I will speak to your instructors. Go get ready."

With that the healer turned to dress, not waiting for Obi- Wan's response. Once again, the master presumed that his commands would be obeyed.

The Jedi apprentice laughed to himself as he walked to the stairs. Qui-Gon must be all right. He was back to his old self.

Obi-Wan and Storm circled the exercise ring, the apprentice feeling even more awkward than usual riding his assigned mount. With the master healer's critical eyes fixed on him, Obi-Wan felt woefully inadequate.

"Enough. Dismount." Qui-Gon's face bore a scowl of dissatisfaction.

Obi-Wan brought the horse to a halt and managed to clamber off without falling. Qui-Gon came forward and took the reins.

The healer shook his head with disgust. "I have spoken to the Riding Master over and over about teaching Force- sensitives to ride. They go about it all wrong."

Obi-Wan was keenly self-conscious. "No, I'm sure it's my own clumsiness. All the other students have caught on just fine."

"Nonsense!" Qui-Gon stepped toward Obi-Wan, placing one hand on his shoulder while the other held the reins. He leaned over and looked directly into his eyes. "You are not clumsy. You have just not had the right teacher."

Obi-Wan heard the words, but the pressure of the healer's hand was distracting.

Qui-Gon stepped away, gently slapping the animal's rump. "Move, Storm," he said softly. The horse began to circle the ring, walking at an easy pace. "Watch the animal move, Obi-Wan."

Obi-Wan did. He watched Storm make her way around the big loop, her head nodding in rhythm with her stride. Yes, that was a horse walking. What was the point?

Qui-Gon looked expectantly at his new trainee. The apprentice sensed that he was waiting for some particularly cogent comment, but he couldn't think of anything to offer. Instead, he raised his eyebrows and his shoulders questioningly.

"Watch the animal move!" Qui-Gon was again issuing orders. "Watch her legs. See the pattern of her stride? Now look at her hips and how they move as she takes each step. Trace the muscles of her back, and see how they flow." The healer used his hand to illustrate his comments, pointing and drawing lines in the air.

Following Qui-Gon's verbal guidance, Obi-Wan began to see the relationships between the muscles and limbs, and how they functioned as the animal moved. It was almost like analyzing a machine, he realized, figuring out how the components interact.

Qui-Gon had been staring at Obi-Wan, and sensed that he was making progress. "Think of how you sit on the horse. Where are your legs? How do you balance yourself on those moving muscles? How do you fit into the machine?"

'How do I sit on the horse?' Obi-Wan pondered. He imagined himself as he had been riding, stiff and awkward. He had not been part of the machine. He'd been sitting on top of it.

With a start, Qui-Gon's reference to a machine registered in Obi-Wan's brain. Obi-Wan hadn't voiced the analogy out loud. The healer had been following his thoughts! His attention was so focused on the animal, Obi-Wan didn't think the other man had even realized what he'd done.

"Are you seeing it now?" Qui-Gon asked hopefully.

"Yes, I think I'm beginning to. I have not been functioning as one with the horse."

"Exactly. Now watch closely."

Qui-Gon stepped behind Obi-Wan and placed his hands on his shoulders. Obi-Wan could feel the heat coming from the larger man's body. He struggled against the urge to simply lean back and rest his weight into the support he knew it would offer. Qui-Gon's words brought his attention back to the lesson.

"Faster, horse."

Obi-Wan felt the Force pulse that accompanied the command. The animal obeyed instantly, picking up speed.

Qui-Gon leaned over, reaching his right arm around Obi-Wan to point to the horse while he spoke directly into Obi- Wan's ear. As he spoke, he used his left hand to guide Obi-Wan's body, turning it to follow the horse's movements as he described them.

"See the change? See how the footing is different? Watch the muscles. How would you change your position on the horse if you were riding?"

The lesson continued, with Qui-Gon directing the animal, pointing out again and again the subtle nuances that Obi- Wan had never seen. Obi-Wan eventually found himself immersed in the spirit of the animal, at last understanding the beauty and power of its body.

Finally, Qui-Gon called softly, "Stop, horse." The mare complied, stopping in front of the two men.

"Now, Obi-Wan, I want you to touch her mind."

"Touch her mind? You mean with the Force?" Obi-Wan hadn't considered trying to communicate with the animal in this way. He assumed it was something learned by animal healers through years of practice.

Qui-Gon stepped up next to the padawan. "Of course! Reach out to her the way you would any other living thing. She may have a simple mind, but she is intelligent. It is not difficult."

Obi-Wan felt strange trying to speak telepathically to an animal. He couldn't even ride the thing. He looked at Qui-Gon. "Show me?" he asked.

Qui-Gon frowned. "Just reach out with the Force, and open yourself to the simple, instinctual feelings of the animal. The horse wants to please. It wants to be directed." Again, Obi-Wan felt the Force-push as Qui-Gon commanded the animal to walk. He tried to latch onto the communication, but it slipped away from him.

"Tell her to stop," Qui-Gon ordered his student.

Obi-Wan concentrated. He focused on the animal, and on the life within it. He searched for some sort of basic intelligence, and eventually found a thread he could tie to. He closed his eyes, pushing himself mentally, and ordered the horse to stop.

A whoop of delight nearly startled the apprentice out of his skin. Deep, rolling laughter flowed from the healer. Qui-Gon clapped Obi-Wan on the back, offering him a congratulatory, "You did it, Obi-Wan Kenobi!"

Obi-Wan stared alternately at the man and the horse. "But," he spluttered, "she's running." Indeed, the horse was trotting around the ring, tossing her head and whinnying as if she too were having a good laugh at Obi- Wan's expense.

"I told you horses were intelligent." Qui-Gon's eyes twinkled. "She sensed how hard you were trying, and decided to tease you! Reach out to her again, but with a softer touch."

With less effort, Obi-Wan was able to feel a sense of amusement and playfulness rolling off the horse. He had to smile. The horse was having a joke at his expense.

*Stop, horse,* he again projected. This time the beautiful mare pulled up directly in front of him, and nuzzled his arm with her soft nose. Obi-Wan rubbed her neck, and murmured "Good horse."

Qui-Gon looked on approvingly. "Now, Obi-Wan, you will ride." It was as much an order as the commands he issued to the animal.

Taking a deep breath, Obi-Wan stepped to the side of the horse and mounted. Qui-Gon assisted, his hands touching the younger man's leg to correct his position. Obi-Wan felt as though electrical charges fired into his body with each touch.

'Focus!' he scolded himself, and took the reins in hand. The last thing he wanted to do was fall in front of this man.

Mentally he commanded Storm, *Walk, horse.* Much to his amazement, she did. He smiled at Qui-Gon, and received a nod of confidence.

Obi-Wan closed his eyes, remembering the movements of the horse's muscles. He thought about functioning with the machine, instead of sitting on top of it. He relaxed into the rhythm.

"Faster," he whispered aloud this time. The horse picked up the pace, but just a little. Storm was helping him, feeling the new connection between them.

This felt right. He felt as though he at last knew what he was doing on the mare. He leaned forward more, and allowed his body to move as an extension of the horse's body.

He took a deep breath and let it out. He concentrated on the animal's mind and gave the command, *Run, horse.*

So Obi-Wan learned to ride. First with caution, then with confidence, and then with exhilaration. He made full use of the practice ring, directing the animal with mental commands, varying his speed and changing directions. He glanced occasionally at Qui-Gon, his face beaming with happiness. He finally understood why people considered this fun.

At last he felt Storm begin to tire, and he brought her to a stop next to the healer. Qui-Gon caught him around the waist as he dismounted. Long after Obi-Wan was safely on his feet, Qui-Gon's hands remained. He looked on the student with pride and, perhaps, something more.

"Well done," he said quietly. "You accomplished much today."

"I finally had the right teacher," Obi-Wan replied.

Why didn't the healer remove his hands? What was the man waiting for? The look in his eyes made Obi-Wan think that he was about to be...kissed?

"Master Qui-Gon!" The healer dropped his hands as he turned toward the youthful voice, unable to ignore the call of his apprentice.

"I think the dewback has gone into labor. Will you come and look at her?"

"I'll be there in a moment, Kee." He turned back to Obi- Wan, but the moment was lost.

Obi-Wan hurried to cover his embarrassment. "I should get back. I promised to help the other students with their lessons. Thank you so much. I am now in your debt, Qui- Gon."

The master shook his head. "This was nothing. You did all the work. I can never repay you for what you did last night."

"There is no need. I will see you tomorrow."

Obi-Wan felt a strong compulsion to touch the other man, and without really deciding to, he reached up and cupped his cheek with his hand. He thought the other man leaned into his palm, just a little, but he might have imagined it.

The nested squares patterning the ceiling of Obi-Wan's room had become permanently etched in his mind. He'd been staring at them for several hours, trying to come to terms with the unaccustomed emotions rolling through his mind.

He'd spent the afternoon working out with several of the padawans, throwing himself into physical exertion in an effort to keep his mind away from a certain someone. He ate a startlingly large quantity of food at dinner, and settled down to meditate.

Obi-Wan had hoped the quiet time would allow him to understand the growing intensity of his feelings for Qui- Gon, but eventually he'd abandoned that mental pursuit as unproductive. Instead, he focused on the connection he had made that morning with the horse, and the wonderful feeling of camaraderie he'd discovered, even if his comrade was an animal.

He'd stretched his way out of his meditation posture, and gone about his usual nighttime routine. When at last there was nothing more to do, he laid on the bed, and began his contemplation of the ceiling.

He wished he could talk to his master about his situation. Li was a good listener, and her advice was sound. She would be able to offer perspective on the sudden, intense feelings her padawan was experiencing.

Obi-Wan vividly remembered every physical contact he'd had with Qui-Gon that morning. He mentally catalogued all the places where the large hands had scorched his body. His mind strayed, wanting, needing to feel more.

What would it feel like to have those hands stroking his body, bringing him pleasure? He ached for it. Obi-Wan sighed as his own hand traveled over his skin, lightly caressing the sensitive places.

Qui-Gon's rough hands would glide over his body, scratching lightly over his nipples. They might pull at his skin, making it redden with the harsh treatment. His beard would tickle as his lips followed his fingers, licking and tasting salty patches.

The hands would travel southward, seeking and finding his erection. His phallus would be engulfed in that huge hand. Almost a paw, really, Obi-Wan thought to himself as he wrapped his own fingers around his cock.

The movement of those hands would make him writhe on the bed. He would moan as a finger brushed over the tip of his phallus, working it just the way he liked. He would rock his hips with the movement, rock with the rhythm of the emotions traded between the two of them. And then, maybe, the big man would bend down and sweep his tongue over the tip and...

Obi-Wan thrust his phallus into his hand and came, crying out Qui-Gon's name, wishing it was the healer who touched him so. Wishing it was the man who instead lay in his own bed, indulging in a fantasy very similar to that of the padawan.

Chapter 4

Obi-Wan awoke to a persistent shaking of his shoulder. He knew instantly where he was and that it was very early. He also knew that it was Qui-Gon who had awoken him. The healer knelt on the floor beside his bed.

As soon as his eyes opened, Qui-Gon spoke. "Come, Obi-Wan Kenobi. Ride with me."

Obi-Wan scrambled out of bed. He was aware of the Force- push that accompanied the words, and wondered briefly if Qui-Gon really thought he needed the suggestive compulsion to motivate him, or if the healer simply used the Force so often in this way, he was no longer aware of the fact that he did so.

Qui-Gon rested on his haunches, watching as the young man gathered his clothing. Obi-Wan realized that the man would continue following his every move, even as he dressed. He wasn't ready to expose himself in that way, so he ducked into the 'fresher that he shared with the occupants of the adjoining room.

When he emerged, Qui-Gon handed him his boots, and stood waiting for him to put them on. As soon as the task was accomplished, he strode out the door without looking back. Obi-Wan felt like a tag-along as he followed the big man down the dark hallways of the dormitory.

Outside, the air was brisk, and Obi-Wan was glad he'd put on a heavy tunic. Two horses awaited them. Storm stood patiently, her form familiar even in the dim light. Beside her was the largest horse Obi-Wan had ever seen. Its white coat gleamed in the earliest flicker of daylight. Of course, Obi-Wan mused. What else would Qui- Gon ride?

They reached their horses and Obi-Wan took up the reins. Instead of moving to his own animal, Qui-Gon followed the younger man. Obi-Wan turned toward him, expecting some comment or direction. Instead, he felt his head cradled firmly from behind, and gently tipped back.

The kiss that followed was intense and passionate. No gentle first time, this kiss. It was insistent and demanding, and Obi-Wan met it with an eagerness that matched Qui-Gon's. He wrapped his arms around the other man, pulling him close. Their tongues met briefly, and Obi-Wan moaned with desire before Qui-Gon drew back.

"I've wanted to do that for a long time," Qui-Gon rasped. He rubbed Obi-Wan's cheek for a moment before turning and stepping swiftly to mount his horse.

"I'm glad that you did," Obi-Wan replied. He took a deep breath, and moved into position in the saddle.

This was going to be a most interesting day.

The horses moved down the familiar paths of the ranch, stepping with confidence despite the barest amount of light. Obi-Wan was relieved that at least the horses knew where they were going.

They passed by barely recognizable features of the landscape, mostly buildings and exercise rings surrounded by fences. As the sun finally broke over the horizon, coloring the sky with brilliant pinks and oranges, they reached the edge of the property as Obi-Wan knew it.

Qui-Gon directed his mount toward a woodland path, which disappeared quickly among the trees. Obi-Wan followed, feeling confident and at ease with Storm. He passed a mental reassurance to the animal, and was gratified to feel a sense of satisfaction returned to him.

The path climbed through a forest dense with tall trees, but little undergrowth. It was like riding through a green cathedral, bedecked with jewel-like birds and fluttering insects. The horses and their passengers were so quiet that they passed through the woodland unnoticed by the resident fauna. Obi-Wan took great pleasure in observing the wildlife of this fantastical place.

After riding steadily upward for more than an hour, the woods began to thin. Within a few minutes, the horses brought their riders onto a broad, open meadow. The air was cool, but the sun's rays were warm. A profusion of orange flowers carpeted the landscape for as far as Obi- Wan could see.

Qui-Gon had led the way through the forest, and now he reined in his horse, waiting for Storm and Obi-Wan to catch up.

"Hungry?" he asked with a grin.

"Famished." Obi-Wan had been so captivated by the sites and sounds along the route, he had forgotten his lack of breakfast. Now reminded, his stomach growled in complaint.

Qui-Gon swung out of his saddle and unstrapped a leather bag. "Stay lose, Marenga," he directed his horse, and turned her loose to graze.

Obi-Wan dismounted and gave his own horse similar orders.

The two men enjoyed a simple breakfast made into a feast by virtue of the beautiful meadow and pleasant company. They were both quiet men by nature, so the conversation was limited. Qui-Gon occasionally pointed out a particularly resplendent insect, or explained which bird was calling its mate.

Obi-Wan nodded and basked in the sunshine, enjoying the tidbits of nature trivia. The scope of Qui-Gon's knowledge was impressive, and Obi-Wan couldn't help but wonder about the man's background. How had someone so gifted in the use of the Force come to work at a breeding ranch? Curiosity finally got the better of him.

"May I ask you a personal question?"

"You may ask. I don't guarantee I will answer," Qui-Gon replied lightly as he popped a berry into his mouth.

"Where did you receive your training in the Force?"

Qui-Gon shrugged. "The same place as you, I suppose. At the Jedi Temple."

"The Temple on Coruscant?" Obi-Wan asked, surprised.

Qui-Gon stared off across the plain, but focused on the past. "I was on Coruscant for several years as a child, but I confess I was miserable there. How can one touch the Living Force in that urban world? Luckily a wise master recognized my distress and suggested I be placed at a Temple on a green planet." Qui-Gon smiled. "I will always be grateful to Master Yoda for coming to my rescue."

Obi-Wan laughed. "You knew Master Yoda?"

"Of course! Has anyone passed through the temple on Coruscant in the last hundred years without falling under the eye of the great Yoda?" Qui-Gon's eyes gleamed with fond memories.

"True enough. So how long did you train at this other Temple?"

"Until just before my thirteenth birthday," Qui-Gon answered.

Obi-Wan's cheeks flamed. Skies above, how insensitive could he have been! It had not occurred to him that Qui- Gon might have left the Temple under unpleasant circumstances.

The healer noticed Obi-Wan's discomfort. "What's wrong?" he asked, baffled by the strong reaction.

"Well, you having to leave the Temple. I didn't mean to bring back bad memories, Qui-Gon." Obi-Wan nervously picked at the blades of grass near his feet.

Qui-Gon shook his head in disbelief. "You Jedi! You can be so arrogant. You think I left because I was not chosen as padawan by some knight!"

"Well, didn't you?" Obi-Wan asked defensively.

"Did it occur to you that I wanted to leave? It is not the goal of every Force-sensitive child in the universe to become a Jedi Knight, Obi-Wan Kenobi."

"I knew from my earliest years that I wanted to be an animal healer," Qui-Gon continued. "The Living Force pulled me strongly, guiding me with surety to this profession. I went to the Temple to learn how to control my gift of the Force, but it was so that I could apply it to healing. I've known for as long as I can remember just what my destiny was."

Obi-Wan was abashed by his error. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have presumed. I didn't mean to insult you. It's just that, I've never imagined being anything other than a Jedi Knight."

Qui-Gon smiled, his good humor restored. "Good for you. I'm glad the Force has guided you to your destiny, as it led me to mine."

Silence reigned for several minutes, until Obi-Wan felt comfortable enough to broach another question. "How did you come to work at the ranch?"

Qui-Gon stretched his long legs in front of him as he answered. "It was through the owner's association with the Temple, actually. The owner contacted the Council to ask if they knew of someone to fill the position. I had stayed in touch with Master Yoda over the years, and he knew I had a strong interest in breeding rare animal species. The ranch offered me an opportunity to pursue that interest. I oversee the entire program here, but the assistant healers handle much of the simple work. I'm fortunate to have such a competent staff. Without them, I would not be able to spend the morning breakfasting in a beautiful meadow."

He looked meaningfully at Obi-Wan and stood up. "We should move on," he asserted. "We have a way to go before we reach our destination."

Obi-Wan took the hand Qui-Gon offered, and was pulled to his feet. His palm fairly sizzled as it met with the work-roughened skin of the healer.

As he stood, Obi-Wan playfully pulled on the hand instead of releasing it. Qui-Gon came forward willingly, and Obi- Wan reached up to thread his fingers in Qui-Gon's hair. With only the slightest pressure, the taller man bent to meet the kiss Obi-Wan offered.

They stood amongst the blazing orange flowers of the sunny meadow, oblivious to their surroundings. There were only the two of them and the softness of lips, the warmth of breath, and the lingering taste of breakfast berries. It was intoxicating. Obi-Wan traced the edge of Qui-Gon's teeth with his tongue, feeling a wave of lust spread outward from his groin.

Qui-Gon pulled his head back. His harsh breath betrayed his arousal. "We should move on," he reiterated, although he showed no intention of doing so.

"We should," Obi-Wan replied, and stepped away. He was anxious to see the spot Qui-Gon wanted to show him. He also wanted to prolong the enchantment of this day.

Obi-Wan called to Storm mentally, whispering *Come, horse.* With a whinnying reply, the animal trotted to him, waiting patiently for direction. She was accompanied by Marenga, who came obediently to Qui-Gon's side.

Both men packed up the remnants of their breakfast, and swung into their saddles. Obi-Wan was just getting settled on his mount when Qui-Gon leaned over and poked him in the ribs.

"Race you to the far side," he challenged, and took off, digging his heels into the horse's flanks. Marenga didn't need the encouragement. The great white horse soared across the plain.

Obi-Wan knew he didn't have a chance of beating that pair, but he commanded Storm to follow.

The site of the large man and the even larger horse flying over the grass was stunning. Qui-Gon's hair streamed through the wind as did the horse's long mane and tail. Obi-Wan watched in amazement as the animal healer stood in his stirrups and stretched out his arms, exhilarating in the sheer joy of the moment. The spectacle made Obi-Wan's heart clench.

Force! Who was this man? Why did he have such an effect on him?

Marenga and Qui-Gon waited at the far side of the meadow for the slower pair to reach them. "What's the matter? Can't keep up?" the winner teased.

"I only learned to ride yesterday," Obi-Wan grumbled, falling into place behind the master as they resumed their climb up the path.

They traveled through more open country now, with pockets of thin trees shaped by wind. The brilliant sun warmed Obi-Wan through his tunic. Small animals stretched out on some of the larger rocks, taking advantage of the solar heating. Birds of prey circled overhead, considering the basking fauna as possible meal choices.

Although they were sometimes able to ride side by side, the two men rode in silence. By unspoken agreement they enjoyed the beauty of their surroundings uninterrupted.

The way soon became rockier, and the path less distinct. Obi-Wan followed Qui-Gon closely as he led them through a series of sharp twists in the route. Several times Obi- Wan nervously touched the mind of his horse, and was relieved to be met by calm reassurance. Storm knew what she was doing. Obi-Wan just had to do his part by staying in place and riding as he'd been taught.

At last they passed through two large boulders and followed a nonexistent path into a grove of dense trees. A minute more brought them into the open, and Obi-Wan found himself beside a crystal-blue lake.

It was brilliant in its clarity. The sun sparkled off its surface as the breeze brushed ripples across the water. The trees on the opposite bank were perfectly reflected when the water stilled.

Qui-Gon dismounted, and indicated that Obi-Wan should also. They led their horses down to the water's edge, and Qui-Gon removed two bags from Marenga's saddle before leaving the animals to slake their thirst.

Obi-Wan stood beside the healer, and drank in the magic of the place for a long moment. He turned and spoke in a hushed voice, not wanting to intrude on the placid scene. "Thank you, Qui-Gon. It's beautiful."

The healer gazed at his companion, eyes conveying a bounty of unspoken words. "Yes, it is beautiful. As are you, Obi-Wan Kenobi."

Long arms drew him into a fervent kiss that promised a great deal more. He was pulled into full contact with Qui-Gon's solid frame, feeling as though he might melt into the heat that emanated from the man. His lips were kissed and sucked, then lightly bitten. Obi-Wan felt dizzy with the passion rolling out of him, blending with the emotions of the man who held him so close.

Obi-Wan knew where this moment was leading, but he was not ready. Did he want to make love with Qui-Gon? Most definitely, but not yet. It was too soon.

He pulled back, and looked up at Qui-Gon. There was a questioning look there, but Qui-Gon did not speak. He waited for Obi-Wan to make the next move. The apprentice dropped his arms from around Qui-Gon's waist and stepped away.

"Would you mind taking a walk around the lake? I'd like to explore a bit," he proposed.

"Certainly, Obi-Wan. Whatever you would like."

They left the horses to rest, and wandered along the bank of the pristine water. Qui-Gon pointed out some of the flowering plants, noting those that were favored by the animals who inhabited the area, as well as two species which were toxic.

They walked close to one another, arms and hands frequently brushing. Sometimes the length of their legs would meet as they stood, reflecting on some natural wonder.

They meandered along the shore in this way, discovering the small stream that supplied the lake with cold, clear water from higher in the hills. Eventually they made their way back to where they had started, finding the horses dozing in the shade of the trees.

"How did you discover this place?" asked Obi-Wan, as they came to a stop near the saddle bags.

"From the air, " replied Qui-Gon. "I was conducting an aerial survey of the planet's fauna and noticed the patch of blue gleaming in the sun. The next day I set out to find it, and have been enchanted by the spot since the moment I set eyes on it."

"It must be a favorite spot for swimming during the summer months, " Obi-Wan mused, imagining the place filled with splashes and laughter.

Qui-Gon shook his head. "To my knowledge, no one knows about this place but me." He wrapped an arm around Obi- Wan's waist. "And you."

Obi-Wan turned and looked up into the healer's face. His heart swelled at the tenderness he saw there. This was the moment. He pulled Qui-Gon's head down so that he could whisper in his ear.

"Make love to me, Qui-Gon."

The healer closed his eyes and pulled Obi-Wan tightly to him, enfolding him in a full-body hug that fueled Obi- Wan's passion. "Yes, Obi-Wan Kenobi. I will," he softly replied.

Qui-Gon stepped aside and rummaged in one of the leather bags for a moment, pulling out a dark square of folded cloth. He moved to a nearby patch of soft grass and spread the blanket, then reached out his hand.

Obi-Wan moved forward. He was keenly aware of his own body. His skin was hypersensitive, feeling the cool breeze and the sun's rays. He noted the smell of the air, carrying the light scent of some flower. He could almost taste the freshness of the water tickling his tongue. This was a moment, he knew with certainty, that he would remember for the rest of his life.

The kisses on his lips and face were as gentle as the touch of the healer's hands moving across his back, wandering, making their way over shoulders and arms, up to the neck and down to his thigh. Obi-Wan's skin buzzed with the sensation, and Qui-Gon hadn't even made direct contact with it yet.

Stepping back, Obi-Wan removed his belt and his boots, knowing that it would be difficult for Qui-Gon to do so. Qui-Gon undressed him, then, kissing and tasting each part of his body as it was exposed. The tenderness was there, just as Obi-Wan expected it would be. When at last he stood naked in the sun, Qui-Gon stepped back and looked at him.

The master took a deep breath as he stared, and murmured, "Obi-Wan," as if he couldn't quite believe what he saw. He moved quickly to undress himself, not making a show of it. Obi-Wan was glad for his expediency.

And then Qui-Gon's hands were on him, the callused fingers and the rough palms moving in strong, sweeping caresses, making his skin sing. Obi-Wan moaned as he gave himself to the realization of his fantasy. He arched into the touches, making his desire plain.

Qui-Gon stopped long enough to guide them both down onto the blanket, and then began a thorough discovery of Obi- Wan's body. The younger man couldn't help but feel as though he was undergoing a sensual examination by the healer, his every muscle and joint inspected and catalogued by virtue of kisses and caresses. When his touch evoked a particularly strong response, Qui-Gon lingered in the spot.

Obi-Wan writhed in pleasure. The soft wet tongue which stroked the back of his knee was driving him mad. He knew he was making ridiculous sounds, but he didn't care. When Qui-Gon began sucking on his toes, he reached his limit. The loving attention was wonderful, but he needed more.

He rolled onto his side and pulled Qui-Gon up beside him. As they kissed, Qui-Gon's hand at last traveled to Obi- Wan's erection. He cried out at the intense pleasure as Qui-Gon began to stroke.

Obi-Wan rocked his hips, lost in the sensation he had dreamed of. He opened his eyes briefly to see Qui-Gon watching him in rapt fascination. And then Qui-Gon's thumb brushed over the tip of his cock and the orgasm surged through him. Obi-Wan came suddenly, thrusting into the hand that wrapped his phallus, calling out Qui-Gon's name.

When he caught his breath and again opened his eyes, Obi- Wan saw he was the subject of a heated gaze.

"What do you want, Qui-Gon?" he whispered, knuckles rubbing over the healer's cheek.

Obi-Wan responded to pressure on his shoulder, rolling onto his back. Qui-Gon moved his hand downward, between Obi-Wan's legs, and traced his finger back to his opening. "May I?" he asked.

Obi-Wan didn't answer immediately. He had made love that way only a few times, and it was something that still made him hesitate. He knew instinctively, though, that this gentle man would never hurt him. He gave his consent with a nod.

Qui-Gon moved lower, kissing Obi-Wan's stomach and dipping his tongue into his navel. Obi-Wan laughed at the tickling of Qui-Gon's beard, releasing the tension that had developed with the healer's request.

As Obi-Wan relaxed, he felt Qui-Gon gather the slickness on his chest, using it to coat his fingers. He closed his eyes and gave himself over to the experience of the long fingers stretching him, teasing and arousing him. He gasped in surprise when Qui-Gon curled his fingers and touched a most sweetly sensitive spot. It wasn't long before Obi-Wan was craving what he had been hesitant about just minutes before. He was achingly hard, and he wanted to be joined to this incredible man.

"Now, Qui-Gon. Please."

Qui-Gon moved between his legs, pushing them up and back, and did as Obi-Wan asked.

It took his breath away. The pleasure and the near-pain of it made Obi-Wan's vision blur. Qui-Gon stopped, holding on until Obi-Wan began to move, signaling his readiness to continue. They moved together, then, without awkwardness, as though they had been lovers for many years. Obi-Wan felt Qui-Gon's pleasure as well as his own, but the intensity of the moment kept him from doing any more than just noting the odd sensation.

Their movements sped as their passion soared. Obi-Wan felt the long, slow build-up of his orgasm this time, the excitement escalating with each stroke inside his body. How could anything feel so good, Obi-Wan wondered. 'So good. So good,' he thought with each stroke.

The sensation peaked, and Obi-Wan was suspended in ecstasy for a moment, and then another, and he came, his body convulsing under his lover's. Qui-Gon came moments after, and their voices echoed off the hillside.

The two men collapsed on the blanket in a tangle of arms and legs. They lay together in a blissful haze, enjoying the residual effects of their lovemaking.

Eventually, hunger drove them to move. They walked to the lake's edge and used the cold water to clean off. The men teased each other over the effect the chilly water had on their anatomy. Qui-Gon then retrieved the bags Marenga had carried and set out the provisions packed early that morning.

Neither of them put on their clothes. It felt right to be naked in the sunshine by the beautiful lake. They ate in companionable silence, enjoying the vista and the continued experience of sharing their bodies. They touched occasionally, fingers run down a chest, a shoulder squeezed, a kiss offered and accepted.

Qui-Gon sighed deeply when their meal was over and he at last spoke. "We should go back. There are several animals I need to attend to this afternoon."

"I understand," Obi-Wan replied, although his tone reflected his reluctance. It was difficult to end this moment, but he too had commitments that demanded his return. He had promised to help another padawan with a problematic kata.

They stood and dressed, smiling sheepishly as they helped each other find their scattered clothes. They packed up their lunch remains, and called the horses to finish preparations for departing. When they had checked to be sure they were leaving nothing behind, Obi-Wan stopped to take a last look around the lake, etching it into his memory.

Qui-Gon stepped up behind him, wrapping his arms around his body. "Thank you, Obi-Wan Kenobi."

Obi-Wan leaned his weight back against the larger man. "What for, Qui-Gon? You are the one who shared this beautiful place with me."

"But you have shared much more. You have shared yourself."

With a final squeeze, Qui-Gon stepped away and the two men mounted their horses. They rode back to the ranch quickly, the horses working steadily down the sloping path. They spoke little except to their mounts. Obi-Wan tried to live in the moment, relishing what remained of the afternoon, but he knew they must prepare to step back into their roles as Jedi Apprentice and Master Animal Healer.

When they reached the stables, they unsaddled the horses and sent them out to the adjoining pasture. Faced with parting from his new lover, Obi-Wan couldn't find words to express the range of emotions he felt. Instead, he touched Qui-Gon's hand and tried to convey his caring through his expression and his eyes. To his surprise, Obi-Wan clearly felt those emotions returned to him, filling his mind with the feelings Qui-Gon held for him.

They parted company then, each man returning to his responsibilities, but certain that they would be together again soon.

The pattern on the ceiling of Obi-Wan's room was just about the only thing that had not changed in the last day's cycle. The young man's mind reeled as he tried to cope with the events that had transpired. Foremost in his mind was the passionate loving he had shared with Qui-Gon. Over and over, he recalled every detail, his body reinforcing the memories with little aches in sensitive places.

Loving, not sex. Obi-Wan definitely did not think of what had passed between him and Qui-Gon as just sex, but the implication of that conclusion frightened him. Was he falling in love with the man?

Even worse, Obi-Wan recalled the moments in the last two days when he had felt a mental connection with Qui-Gon that should not have occurred: the emotions he'd felt so clearly in his mind when they parted that afternoon, the pleasure during their lovemaking, and the reference to his thoughts while he was working with Storm the previous day. By the Force, could it be the beginning of a bond? The idea made his stomach hurt.

He was leaving Grathos in little more than a week.

Obi-Wan rolled over in his bed. He knew that sleep on this night would be elusive.

Chapter 5

"I apologize for missing class the last two mornings, Master Conard. I will make up the work if you just let me know what I need to do." Obi-Wan spoke to the lead instructor for the class of padawans, feeling guilty for missing his coursework.

"It's all right, Obi-Wan," the teacher answered good- naturedly. "Master Qui-Gon told me that he was taking over your riding lessons personally. As far as the classwork goes, you have completed the mandatory lessons. We're simply reviewing at this point. All you need to do is pass the competency exams, and I can't imagine you will have any difficulty with them."

"Thank you, sir. I don't want to shirk my responsibilities. Are you sure there's nothing I need to do?" Obi-Wan persisted.

Conard gave him a wink and a smile. "With private lessons from the Master Healer, I imagine you are getting more of an education than I could ever provide." Obi-Wan blushed as the teacher clapped him on the back and steered him toward the door of the room. "Just be here at midweek to take your exams."

Obi-Wan assured him he would be there to take his test, and thanked the instructor again for his forbearance. The apprentice exited the building, anxious to find Qui-Gon.

A young boy stepped up to him as soon as he was outside. "Obi-Wan Kenobi?" he asked in a squeaky voice. Once he'd received assurance that he'd found the right person, the boy delivered a message.

"Master Qui-Gon sent me, sir. He says to tell you he is busy treating a bantha and won't be able to see you today. He says I am to take you to the mews."

Obi-Wan hid his disappointment at not being able to see Qui-Gon for the entire day. Well, if they couldn't be together, he would at least assent to whatever the activity was that Qui-Gon had intended for him.

He grinned at the young messenger. "I will accompany you to the mews, whatever that may be, if you will first tell me your name."

The boy flushed and gave a little bow as he spoke. "Bartram, sir. If you'll follow me?"

Despite his longer legs, Obi-Wan had to step quickly to keep up with the energetic youth. He wanted to question him about their destination, but Bartram was moving too quickly for conversation.

They moved from the classrooms past the stableyards and then beyond the exercise rings. They were soon on a path Obi-Wan didn't recognize, leading into a copse of trees. When they emerged, the apprentice felt as though he had stepped into a secret world.

They stood at the edge of a clearing, with a large open expanse at one end, and a walled enclosure at the other. It was toward the enclosure that Bartram led him.

The structure looked to be made of tightly-placed, weathered logs, probably those cut down to clear the land on which it stood. It was neat and securely built, about three meters high, and twenty meters on the side Obi-Wan could see.

Bartram led his companion to a gate and opened the latch with the familiarity of long practice. Obi-Wan stepped up to follow the boy, but was stopped mid-stride by an overwhelming wave of prescience.

He suddenly felt as though he had already performed this action a thousand times. It was eerily familiar, as though he was walking across the threshold of his own quarters. He knew this place would play a significant part in his life. Or rather, it could.

"Always changing, the future is," Obi-Wan heard in his mind.

He shook his head to clear his thoughts, and stepped through the gate.

The inside of the rectangular structure was almost barren, Obi-Wan noted with surprise. Built into each of the corners were one or two small hutches, but the majority of the area was neatly-trimmed turf. Short poles, about knee-height, were sunk into the ground around the green. On each pole sat a tethered bird.

Bartram gestured for Obi-Wan to follow him as he led the way to a storage shed built against one of the walls. He examined Obi-Wan's hand, and chose for him a stiff glove made of some animal hide. He indicated to the Jedi that he should fit it over his left hand. The boy pulled a glove on his own hand without giving it any thought. Wearing the glove was obviously second nature to him.

"Bartram," Obi-Wan said when he could stand it no more. "Are you going to tell me what this is about? What is a mews?"

Bartram looked a bit startled, as though he had been asked what planet they were on. "This is the mews, sir. It's where the birds are kept for hawking."

Obi-Wan was afraid he was going to have to extract each bit of information slowly, and if need be, painfully, from the boy. "Hawking?" he asked in a leading tone.

"Hunting, sir. With the birds."

Finally, this was beginning to make sense. Although he had never taken part in the age-old tradition, Obi-Wan had heard of cultures where birds of prey were kept for the purpose of hunting, either for sport or for necessity. Here on the ranch at Grathos, it must be for sport, he surmised. Well, it would certainly be an interesting way to spend the day. Obi-Wan smiled, mentally thanking Qui- Gon for directing him here.

"Well, Bartram," Obi-Wan acceded with a bow, "I am your student. Teach me what you will."

The boy walked directly over to an edgy-looking brown hawk with a russet-colored tail, and unhooked the small clasp that held it to the pole. The bird hopped onto his glove, stretching its wings briefly to gain its balance. Bartram took the leather straps attached to each of the bird's legs into his fist.

He smoothed the feathers of the hawk's back as he spoke to Obi-Wan with some degree of pride. "I'm manning this passage shortwing."

In response to an exaggerated questioning look from the Jedi, he explained. "It's a new bird. It was caught just about a week ago. I have to spend as much time with it as I can to get it used to people."

"Why was it taken from the wild?" Obi-Wan asked.

"To use for the hunt," Bartram shrugged. "We'll let it go at the end of the season."

Keeping the bird on his arm, Bartram led Obi-Wan around the enclosed yard, which he referred to as the weathering area. The boy introduced him to the residents of the mews, both the birds and the people who attended them. Four other birds of prey were sunning in the open air, and two were held in the corner enclosures.

Bartram stopped in front of a sleek pale gray falcon with a speckled chest. The bird turned toward them as they approached, although it could not see. Its head was covered by a sort of helmet. Three decorative feathers curled from the top of the leather cap.

"This is Master Qui-Gon's bird. He told me you could handle her. She's an eyas gyr."

"Listen, Bartram," Obi-Wan told the boy in his most tolerant manner. "You may as well be speaking Slythrian to me. You've got to explain in terms I understand."

The boy sighed as though he were charged with a recalcitrant, if not downright stupid, child.

"Master Qui-Gon hand-raised her from a nestling. She's a gyr, a longwing bird of prey."

Bartram showed Obi-Wan how to unhook the strap-like leather jesses from the swivel which held the gyr to her post, and the beautiful bird hopped onto the Jedi's glove. He took the jesses in his fist.

She was amazingly light. The bird's talons held fast, making Obi-Wan thankful for the protection of the glove.

She flared her wings as Obi-Wan moved his arm, and waited for the human to settle himself so that she could get her balance. Obi-Wan felt an incredible sense of power coming from the animal on his hand, but it was disconcerting not to be able to see her eyes. He asked if he could remove the helmet.

"The hood, sir? You can take it off for a short while, but if she gets nervous you need to put it back on. The hood keeps her calm," Bartram explained.

Permission given, Obi-Wan gingerly unfastened the small clasp under the bird's chin, and removed the hood. The cap turned out to be quite stiff, maintaining its shape as he held it in his hand.

The stare from the gyr's intense yellow eyes was startling. Obi-Wan felt as though he were being inspected, evaluated and judged in the space of a heartbeat. The falcon cocked her head to study each tiny movement her handler made. Her focus was complete.

She reminded Obi-Wan of one or two of the masters back at the Temple. This, he mused, was an avian Jedi. He liked her immediately.

Bartram had been distracted by another of the mews workers, who had picked up a smaller hooded bird and headed for the gate.

"Come on, Obi-Wan, let's watch D'nar exercise the tiercel." The boy bolted toward the gate before Obi-Wan could ask the obvious question. This time Bartram caught himself, though, and threw the information over his shoulder. "A tiercel's a male hawk."

Obi-Wan was impressed by how calm the gyr was as he carried her to the clearing next to the mews. Once he had caught up to Bartram, however, he was told to replace the hood. "She'll get too excited watching the tiercel, and may bate - fly off your glove," his youthful teacher explained.

The companions watched as the handler, a boy slightly older than Bartram, put the tiercel through its training. Repeatedly, the bird was expected to fly from a perch to the glove, for which it was rewarded with a small bit of food. As the bird proved its willingness to perform the task, D'nar increased the distance the tiercel had to fly, backing off more and more each time. Since this was another passage bird, new to training, a light leash was attached to one leg.

Although the bird was willingly cooperating in the training session, Obi-Wan noted a strong sense of independence coming from the tiercel. He was participating in this little exercise because he had chosen to, it seemed.

"Master Qui-Gon thinks this tiercel has potential," Bartram knowingly informed Obi-Wan. "He may use him to breed the gyr."

Obi-Wan looked with increased interest at the bird on his glove. How would Qui-Gon go about such a process? What criteria would the master healer use to judge the tiercel's potential?

On impulse, Obi-Wan sharpened his focus and reached out with the Force to try to touch the bird's mind. He was stunned by the immediate response: strength, independence, and an acute awareness of its surroundings.

Any of these birds could easily injure their handlers if it wanted to, Obi-Wan realized. Their feet and beaks were weapons, yet they chose to cooperate. Obi-Wan sensed it was more than just a conditioned response for food. There seemed to be a bond between the birds and the people they lived with. The relationship fascinated Obi-Wan, and he very much wanted to learn more about it.

The rest of the day sped away as Obi-Wan was introduced to the complexities of caring for the birds of prey and preparing them for the hunt. He entered figures and notes into the daily logs as Bartram weighed the birds and dictated comments on their condition. D'nar even allowed him to take a turn at working with the passage tiercel. He felt an incredible charge of adrenaline as the bird came rushing to his fist for the first time. It was instantly addictive.

As the sun began to draw close to the horizon, Obi-Wan helped the workers put the birds into their little hutches. With reluctance he saw the last bird safely tucked away for the night, and gave his profuse thanks to Bartram and D'nar. With an invitation to return the next day, Obi-Wan took his leave of the birds and the people he had quickly grown attached to.

Obi-Wan had intended to seek out Qui-Gon after the evening meal to tell him about his day in the mews, but was waylaid by two of the younger padawans seeking help with an astrophysics problem. Obi-Wan reminded himself that many of the students were struggling to keep up with their ongoing classes at the Temple while they were on Grathos. He spent several hours patiently helping them find their mistakes, and in the end crawled into his bed thinking only of sleep.

That night, he dreamed he was flying, soaring over the hills and valleys of Grathos. When he awoke, he was saddened to discover it was not real.

Chapter 6

At first light, Obi-Wan opened his eyes with a start. Qui-Gon knelt by his bed.

"Come, Obi-Wan Kenobi. Come hawking with me."

Again the Force-push compelled him to an action he would have willingly done. "You don't have to do that, you know," he muttered peevishly as he rose.

Bewildered, Qui-Gon asked, "Do what?"

"Nothing," Obi-Wan laughed, and turned to find his clothes. He rounded up his tunic and leggings, then hesitated in indecision. Should he get dressed in the room or in the 'fresher?

The question was answered for him. Obi-Wan was grasped by the shoulders, turned so that he was facing Qui-Gon, and engulfed by long arms and overwhelming affection. The bundle of clothing in Obi-Wan's hands was squished between his chest and Qui-Gon's as the healer delivered a fervent kiss. Obi-Wan's heart missed a beat. He had to remember how to breathe.

Qui-Gon was very much the master when he broke away. "Hurry, now. Get changed!" were the orders as he started stripping away Obi-Wan's sleep clothes and helping him dress. Qui-Gon's perfunctory manner made Obi-Wan feel as though he were a child being dressed by a parent. However disconcerting it was, he was soon ready to head out the door.

Just as they had been two mornings before, Storm and Marenga stood waiting patiently for their riders. Qui-Gon seemed intent on getting started, immediately turning his mount and heading down a path that Obi-Wan now knew led to the mews.

Upon arriving at the aviary, Qui-Gon quickly outfitted himself and Obi-Wan with gloves and leather satchels. He then went to the hutches which held the birds while Obi- Wan waited in anticipation.

Qui-Gon returned with his gray longwing. "You will work with the eyas gyr today, since Bartram said the two of you seemed to get along so well."

Obi-Wan felt a tingle of excitement as he took the hooded gyr on his fist, knowing now how to handle the jesses and settle himself so that the bird was comfortable. It felt different having the gyr on his arm while astride the horse. He hoped he would be able to ride without upsetting the longwing. He reached out with the Force to send reassurance to the gyr, and the bird responded with a sense of excitement that matched his own, as if it knew it was headed for the hunt.

While Obi-Wan was focused on the gyr, Qui-Gon had returned to his horse with another hooded longwing. Obi-Wan thought he had seen the bird on the previous day, but had not handled it. It was smaller than the gyr, mostly brown in color, with a black and white banded tail. It held itself with the same alert concentration as the gyr.

In contrast to the padawan's nervous stance on his mount, Qui-Gon looked supremely at ease on his great horse. He proved his superior sense of balance by nimbly drawing Marenga next to Storm, and leaning over to deliver a quick kiss.

"Are you ready, Obi-Wan Kenobi?" he asked softly.

"Lead on," Obi-Wan replied, anxious to begin what promised to be another interesting day.

Initially they headed up the path that led to the isolated lake, but after an hour, veered to the west. This brought them to the south-facing slope of the hillside, where the air was warm and the sunshine had already started to induce warm air currents to rise. The forest was sparse, with a few scrappy-looking shrubs scattered in the open spaces.

Qui-Gon reined in his horse when the path widened, and was able to ride abreast of Obi-Wan. The healer dug into a leather bag on his saddle and pulled out some tidbits of food, which he shared with the younger man.

Obi-Wan had been doing reasonably well in riding with the hawk on his arm and communicating with Storm to keep them working in partnership. Although the bird was not heavy, the apprentice was unaccustomed to carrying an animal in that position, and it began to wear on him. The added challenge of managing breakfast proved to be unsettling for man and beast. The gyr flared her wings trying to keep her balance on her human perch, and finally bated, flying off the glove.

"Be careful, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon scolded harshly as the gyr settled back onto Obi-Wan's fist. "You are responsible for the well-being of that bird!"

"I know, Qui-Gon. I'm trying," Obi-Wan replied curtly.

Qui-Gon arched one eyebrow and glared at the frustrated man. "Trying?" He snorted a derisive laugh. "Do, or do not, Padawan."

With that he dug his heels into Marenga's flanks and the two of them rode ahead, leaving Obi-Wan tasting dust and feeling surly. 'What right do you have to talk to me like that?' he thought to himself. 'You're not my master.'

"I am when it comes to your riding lessons," the healer shot back over his shoulder.

Damn. He'd done it again. Obi-Wan counseled himself to keep his mental shields under tighter control while around this man.

With the beauty of the day and the powerful bird on his arm, Obi-Wan couldn't stay bad-tempered, though. By the time the two riders came to a flat meadow dotted with short shrubs, he had released his negative energy into the Force.

They halted in a group of trees at the edge of the clearing, and dismounted. Qui-Gon showed Obi-Wan how to switch out the jesses the birds wore, and then to tie a bell to each leg using special leather bewits.

The metal bells chimed with a clear resonance that reflected the work of a master craftsman. It was one of the loveliest sounds Obi-Wan had ever heard. They were to help the men find the birds after they took their prey, Obi-Wan was informed when he inquired as to their purpose.

"We will allow the merlit to hunt first, so that you can observe and learn," Qui-Gon instructed, motioning to the longwing he carried.

The two men remounted their horses, and Qui-Gon explained his plan to Obi-Wan. When he was sure the younger man understood, he moved into the clearing with Obi-Wan following.

Qui-Gon removed the hood from the bird he carried, and the falcon paused to get her bearings. Then she was in the air, given a slight boost from Qui-Gon's arm as she left his glove.

She was grace and power and beauty, dedicated to a single purpose. Obi-Wan stared in envy as she climbed into the sky, making the best of the winds and the lie of the land to gain altitude as swiftly as possible. When she had reached a height of about 60 meters, she set her wings and hovered, waiting for the humans to do their part.

As previously instructed, Obi-Wan followed Qui-Gon slightly downwind of the bird, and the two of them drove their horses forward, charging into a patch of low green shrubbery. Both Storm and Marenga were experienced at this business, and knew what was expected of them. Several fat birds flushed from their sanctuary in the bushes, squawking their protest.

"Watch!" Qui-Gon urged as he reined in Marenga, but Obi- Wan did not need to be told. The falcon folded its wings and plummeted to the ground in its stoop, dropping like a rock from the sky. She moved so fast that Obi-Wan could barely keep track of her sleek brown body. It was as though the movement was Force-enhanced, although he knew it was simply the bird's innate abilities which guided it.

When the merlit was merely a few meters above the ground, Obi-Wan saw her wings flare out and her feet suddenly brought forward, catching one of the plump birds in its talons. Feathers scattered as the falcon caught the wind once more to slow her descent into the meadow.

Qui-Gon dismounted and handed Obi-Wan the reins. The master's long legs took him quickly to the spot where he had seen the merlit drop, the sound of her bells guiding him to the exact location.

Obi-Wan stayed at a distance with the gyr, not wanting to interfere with Qui-Gon's retrieval of the bird and her prey. They returned soon enough, the merlit once again sitting on the master's arm, looking intently around her, as if she might again take flight. Qui-Gon must have thought so too, because he replaced the bird's hood. Obi- Wan subsequently saw the tension leave the merlit's posture and she calmed down on the glove.

"Ready to try?" Qui-Gon grinned at Obi-Wan.

"Definitely!"

Since the gamebirds in that field had been warned by the merlit's flight, Qui-Gon led them up the trail a short distance to another field. He stopped for a moment and asked Obi-Wan to describe his plan for hunting this meadow. He nodded approvingly at the proposal. They moved to an advantageous position, and sat for a moment confirming the pattern of the wind.

Once Obi-Wan was set in his mind in what he needed to do, he removed the gyr's hood. He reached out to her with the Force in that moment, wanting to share her reaction. The response, the heady anticipation and complete focus on the expected task, were familiar to him. He had experienced the same feelings on his more intense missions with Master Li.

With a nod from Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan slipped the gyr from his glove, giving her a bit of a toss to help her off. She climbed on the wind just as the merlit had, feeling the air, adjusting her wings minutely to maximize lift. Obi- Wan envisioned the controlled power the bird held to itself, waiting for the right moment to release it. Just as he had been taught by his own master, he mused.

Qui-Gon started forward, drawing Obi-Wan's attention from the gyr, and they moved into position. The bird went on point, hovering in the air as it waited for the prey to be flushed. Obi-Wan tried to judge the wind as Qui-Gon had instructed him, and drew Storm into what he thought would be a suitable position.

"Hah!" he yelled as he charged into the low shrubs, catching in his peripheral vision Qui-Gon's accompanying movements. Six stout birds with stubby wings took flight, angling toward the gyr. Now it was up to her.

Obi-Wan held his breath as the falcon began her descent. She plummeted to the ground like a bolt of lightning, the air through her wings making an audible whistle which got louder as she approached the ground. Obi-Wan started to reach out to her with the Force, but was mentally yanked back by Qui-Gon.

"Don't distract her now!" he chided, and Obi-Wan realized he was right. He was being selfish, wanting to experience for himself that headlong rush toward the ground. What would it feel like?

In a mere instant, she was pulling out of the stoop, catching the wind with the dispatched bird already in her talons. She dropped with a tinkling of bells, and disappeared into the tall grass.

Obi-Wan quickly dismounted and headed toward her, Qui-Gon on his heels.

They found the gyr guarding her victim, wings spread in a protective stance. She surrendered her prey to Obi-Wan, who picked up the gamebird, and looked at it sadly.

Qui-Gon noted his expression and commented, "It's part of the cycle of life, Obi-Wan Kenobi. One bird gives its life for another's existence."

"But I had a part in it," Obi-Wan replied thoughtfully. He had hunted game before and not felt any compunction about killing an animal, but then it had been for his own consumption.

"Yes, Obi-Wan, that particular bird may not have died today if it weren't for our hawking expedition. But its life had purpose. Its body will nourish another, and its energy will remain within the cycle of the Living Force. And you must admit, seeing the gyr demonstrate her skills gave you pleasure."

Obi-Wan did not reply, but Qui-Gon was right. He had enjoyed watching the gyr hunt. He'd envied her in that moment. It was something he needed to think about.

He deposited the gamebird in the leather satchel as Qui- Gon instructed, and gathered the gyr onto his arm. He replaced the hood with greater ease than the last time, gaining confidence in his handling of the longwing. He mounted his horse a moment after Qui-Gon took his seat on Marenga.

"Let's find some shade," Qui-Gon suggested, "and relax for a bit."

They rode slowly now, meandering through the brush toward one of the thicker groves of trees. The temperature dropped noticeably as the horses entered the stand of evergreens. The fresh smell of the foliage was invigorating. Qui-Gon let the animals find their own way toward water, their noses as accurate as his sense of direction. When they arrived at a mountain stream, both men dismounted.

Qui-Gon loosened a slender pouch from Marenga's saddle, and extracted several long bits of curved metal. Obi-Wan watched curiously as he assembled the pieces into a half- circle, whose ends he stuck into the ground. Heavy roping was wound about the apex. The merlit knew what it was, hopping onto the perch immediately when presented with the opportunity. The master healer assembled a second perch, and Obi-Wan placed the gyr on her own stand.

Qui-Gon went about the business of switching out the hunting jesses, attaching the set which could be attached to the swivel on the perch. Obi-Wan followed suit, grateful that the gyr was cooperating with his less- practiced hands.

"Time for them to claim their prey, Obi-Wan." Qui-Gon removed the hood from the longwing, and presented her with the bird from his satchel. Obi-Wan did likewise, watching as the gyr took straight to plucking the feathers from the dead bird before beginning to eat.

Qui-Gon was right, he realized. As gruesome as it might be to watch one animal devour another, it was part of the cycle of life. Prey and predator, the weak and the strong, the cycle of renewal repeated over and over every day. Without it, the planet's ecological balance would go awry.

In some ways, it made much more sense than the killing he had witnessed in his years of service as a Jedi padawan. He had taken the lives of sentient life forms in order to protect himself and his master. It was something that he had come to terms with over the years as a necessary part of his duty. Watching the gyr feed on the gamebird made him think again about the taking of life, for what seemed like much more arbitrary purposes than that which drove the falcon.

A warm hand enveloped his own, interrupting Obi-Wan's reverie. Qui-Gon drew him away, toward the hypnotic bubbling of the flowing stream.

"How did you know I'd enjoy this?" Obi-Wan asked as they walked, his fingers interlocked with Qui-Gon's.

"Working with the birds?" In response to the younger man's nod, Qui-Gon continued, "You share much with them. Your intensity, your focus, your gracefulness."

At that, Obi-Wan snorted with self-derision, rolling his eyes in an exaggerated response.

"Yes, Obi-Wan Kenobi. You do." Qui-Gon stopped and stared down at the padawan.

There was no response he could reasonably make, so Obi-Wan pulled Qui-Gon down for a long, deep kiss.

He had been nervous about reconnecting with Qui-Gon after their day apart. He was afraid that it would not be the same - that something would be lacking.

There was absolutely nothing to worry about.

Passion flared as they kissed, and Qui-Gon roughly pulled Obi-Wan to him, practically slamming their bodies together. Where the previous encounter between the two men had been slow and gentle, on this day there was lust and a fierce need that sang between them.

They pulled at their own clothing and at each other's, grabbing kisses and groping at skin as the layers came off too slowly. When the last bit of attire lay on the woodland floor, Qui-Gon stalked toward his lover.

Obi-Wan saw a predatory gleam in the eyes which locked onto his own, and it made him take a step back, then another, as Qui-Gon steadily advanced. Soon it became apparent that he had been driven to exactly the position Qui-Gon intended.

The rough bark of a tree scraped against Obi-Wan's back as Qui-Gon leaned in for an equally rough kiss. It was too quick for Obi-Wan, although the thought fled from his mind as Qui-Gon nipped and licked his way down his chest and abdomen, until the master knelt in front of the apprentice.

Obi-Wan watched as Qui-Gon appraised his erection, as if deciding what he might do with it. His arousal flared under the erotic scrutiny, causing his phallus to twitch in anticipation. Qui-Gon smiled ferally, and then took him into his mouth in one smooth, possessive motion.

Large hands pinned his hips against the tree as Obi-Wan cried out from the intense pleasure that surged through his body. Qui-Gon sucked steadily, using his tongue to stimulate the most sensitive spots as he moved up and down the shaft. It was wondrous, and Obi-Wan knew he was going to come very quickly if Qui-Gon didn't stop.

He pushed back on his lover's head, moaning little sounds of objection, but Qui-Gon had no intention of stopping. He wanted this, too.

The sharp prickles of the tree on Obi-Wan's back added a strange dimension to the pleasure he experienced, sharpening it acutely. He found himself pushing into the stinging pain as he held his breath and concentrated on the approach of his climax. One more stroke. Another. He threw his head back in a silent scream and he came, rocking into the sweet mouth that held him.

When the tremors subsided, Qui-Gon kissed his way back up Obi-Wan's stomach and chest, flicking his tongue over a nipple en route to his throat. Obi-Wan kept his eyes closed, savoring the ripples of his orgasm and the attention he was receiving from his lover's mouth. He groaned in displeasure when the kisses stopped short of his lips, and he felt Qui-Gon withdraw.

His eyes slit open to discover his lover searching intently through the scattered toss of clothing. With a grin of triumph, Qui-Gon at last brought forth a small vial from the pocket of some unidentifiable wardrobe item.

Obi-Wan knew what that was, and laughed. "Planning ahead, Master Jinn?"

"One should always be prepared," he replied with a stern face, mocking his own pedantic manner.

"First things first, Qui-Gon. Come here," Obi-Wan ordered, and the master obeyed.

The only other time they had made love, Obi-Wan had not been able to explore the gorgeous body he had been coveting for weeks, a situation he intended to rectify. He grabbed a couple of the closest items of clothing, and spread them quickly on the evergreen needles. He pushed down on Qui-Gon's shoulders, and the master readily followed the unspoken instruction, laying atop the makeshift blanket.

Obi-Wan placed one foot on either side of Qui-Gon's legs and stared down at his lover. He was not beautiful, but he was very handsome in a rough-cut sense. Obi-Wan surveyed his long hair spread around his head, his wide shoulders, muscled chest, tight stomach and long legs. His perusal made his phallus begin to stir.

He stepped forward slightly and knelt astride the tempting body. He began his erotic journey with long, firm strokes over Qui-Gon's chest, and went on to touch, squeeze and kiss every feature that he could reach. Qui-Gon responded with increasingly frantic groans and sighs. The noises went straight to Obi-Wan's cock, knowing that he was responsible for his lover's arousal.

When Qui-Gon began to whimper, Obi-Wan judged that it was time to go beyond kisses and touches. He found the vial of oil, and poured some into his hand. Qui-Gon looked on approvingly until Obi-Wan started to use the lubricant to slick his lover's penis.

Qui-Gon reached out and grabbed his hand, stopping him. His voice was urgent when he spoke. "No, Obi-Wan, please. I want to feel you inside me. I want to watch your face when you come."

Obi-Wan hesitated. This was something he had never done. He knew what to do, of course, but the idea made him...nervous.

Qui-Gon easily read the younger man's reluctance. "If you would rather not...."

"No! It's just that," Obi-Wan could feel himself blush. "I haven't ever...."

Qui-Gon sat up and held Obi-Wan to his chest while reassuring him with firm strokes down his back. "It's all right. I don't want you to do anything that makes you uncomfortable."

Obi-Wan pulled back and met Qui-Gon's eyes. "But I do want to. Very much. I just want to do it right."

Qui-Gon's smiled. "I don't think you could do it wrong, Obi-Wan Kenobi."

The master took the vial and poured oil into his own hand. He stroked Obi-Wan's phallus, his skillful hands ridding Obi-Wan of his nervousness. When the younger man's arousal had been fully restored, Qui-Gon poured oil onto Obi-Wan's hand, and lay back.

Tentatively, Obi-Wan mimicked Qui-Gon's actions during their previous encounter, placing his finger into the opening of his lover's body. Obi-Wan bit his lip in concentration as he focused on his task, making mental note of which movements the other man enjoyed. Qui-Gon rewarded him with sighs and encouraging murmurs.

Acknowledging his inexperience, Obi-Wan allowed the master to guide him in this act. He continued plying his fingers until Qui-Gon pulled his legs up, whispering "Now, Obi- Wan. I want you now."

He held his breath as he moved forward, and with a bit of effort, sank into Qui-Gon's body. The sensation was overwhelming. For a terrible instant, he thought he might climax immediately, without bringing Qui-Gon along with him. The extraordinary soft warmth and pressure were more pleasurable than he had ever imagined.

Even more amazing was knowing that he was inside Qui-Gon's body. Tendrils of passion began to weave their way into his mind, and Obi-Wan realized that he was joined to Qui- Gon at many levels.

Qui-Gon pushed his hips upward, silently urging Obi-Wan to move. He did, stroking slowly at first while he savored the novel sensation, then moving faster as the shared passion began to spiral.

Obi-Wan knew that his lover was watching him, knew even that Qui-Gon had begun to stroke his own erection in time to their thrusts, but he could do no more than peripherally register these facts. He was caught up in the bliss of being surrounded by Qui-Gon, surrounded in body and spirit. It felt so absolutely right.

His need had taken over from his mind, and he drove into Qui-Gon with ferocity, needing completion. He felt his lips tingle and his belly tighten as his orgasm came rushing toward him. He heard Qui-Gon cry out as his own mind exploded in a starburst of ecstasy.

Obi-Wan shook as he dropped down onto Qui-Gon's chest and into his firm embrace. Both men gasped for breath, waiting for their heartbeats to slow to normal.

At last Obi-Wan slid off his lover's body. The two men lay side by side staring up at the tree canopies, watching the wind toy with the flexible evergreen boughs. Dappled sunlight danced across their skin, giving the impression that they were moving instead of the leaves. They were content to be in each other's company, drowsy in the heat of the day. Obi-Wan found it to be almost as wonderful as their lovemaking.

In time, Qui-Gon remarked that he should check on the animals, and Obi-Wan reluctantly agreed. When the master returned several minutes later, he brought the bag containing the provisions he had packed, and pulled out some simple foods - bread, cheese and nuts - along with a skin of water.

Obi-Wan wasn't sure why, but the light meal tasted better than most of the finest banquets he had attended with his master. The cheese was especially good, and he expressed that opinion to Qui-Gon.

The healer nodded and ignored good manners to speak through his mouthful of food. "Yes, it is good. Made from bantha milk."

Only years of practiced self-control kept Obi-Wan from spewing the contents of his mouth onto the ground before him. He stared wide-eyed at Qui-Gon, incredulous.

Qui-Gon couldn't keep back a smile, which soon broke into a full laugh. "It's good to know that Jedi padawans are at least a bit gullible, Obi-Wan Kenobi." The apprentice shook his head as he blushed, feeling foolish, but enjoying the joke in spite of himself.

He studied Qui-Gon as the older man's interest was caught by a small red bird flitting through the tree branches. It was amazing that his gentle, good-natured lover was the same man who had been on a rampage only four nights before. This was a man who had nearly succumbed to the lure of the Darkness. He exuded such strength and confidence now, the memory of that previous night seemed almost unreal.

"May I ask you a serious question?" Obi-Wan ventured, wanting to fully comprehend Qui-Gon's experience.

"You certainly are a curious one, aren't you? Go ahead. Ask away."

Obi-Wan leaned forward. "What did it feel like? What did it feel like when you were so close to the Dark Side on that night I came to your room?"

Qui-Gon shuddered despite the warmth of the day, and his face went blank. For a moment, Obi-Wan thought he wouldn't answer. When he did reply, he stared off into space and spoke haltingly, as if he were remembering something that had happened long ago.

"It was like placing your hand on a frigid piece of metal, and feeling the pain of it surge up to your elbow. It was like standing in a gigantic empty building, with no sign of life anywhere. It was like falling into a bottomless pit that gets endlessly darker as you continue to fall and fall."

Qui-Gon turned piercing eyes on Obi-Wan. "And then you were there. You threw out a lifeline for me to cling to. I saw your Light, and I grabbed onto it."

That was the beginning, Obi-Wan thought, remembering to keep his mental shields raised this time. It was the beginning of whatever it was that had developed between himself and Qui-Gon. He just wished he could define what that was.

Obi-Wan wanted more than ever to be able to talk to his master. She would help him put things in perspective. Right now, he felt as if his vision of his own future had become blurred. Knowing that he was to leave Grathos in only a few days added to his confusion.

To Qui-Gon, he said, "I'm just glad I was able to help. It would have been terrible to have lost you to that evil."

Qui-Gon took a deep breath and gave Obi-Wan a melancholy smile. "We should not talk about such things on this beautiful day. Kiss me, instead."

Obi-Wan was happy to comply.

They packed up then, and prepared to return to the ranch. Obi-Wan helped Qui-Gon bundle up the collapsible perches, and found it easier this time to get settled with the gyr while in the saddle. The falcon was subdued, almost lethargic after her large meal.

The two men rode back as before, this time stopping by the mews on their way to the stables. Bartram came bounding up to Obi-Wan, bursting with questions about their hawking expedition, wondering especially if the longwings had both been successful in their hunt.

As Qui-Gon returned the birds to their mews, Obi-Wan held the boy in rapt attention with a vivid account of the falcons' flights. He could see Bartram's pride when he was told that both longwings had hunted well.

"Won't you stay? You can help out here this afternoon," Bartram begged when Obi-Wan had finished his tale.

Obi-Wan glanced at Qui-Gon as he spoke. "I really must start reviewing for my exams. The tests begin day after next."

Bartram showed his disappointment, but understood the need for study. He'd taken his share of exams from Master Conard.

Storm and Marenga walked to the stables without direction from their riders. When they were turned out to pasture, Obi-Wan once again faced the difficult task of parting from his lover.

"Thank you, Qui-Gon. It was wonderful." He grinned. "Everything was wonderful."

Qui-Gon caught his meaning, and returned the smile. "Will you join me for evening meal?"

"I'd like that very much," Obi-Wan replied quietly. He took Qui-Gon's hand and squeezed it before he spoke again. "I really should go study."

Qui-Gon nodded his agreement. "If all the complaining I hear has any foundation in truth, Master Conard's exams are to be greatly feared."

With an assurance to return at dinner time, Obi-Wan headed back to his room, knowing that it was going to take a great deal of effort to keep his mind on his classwork.

Chapter 7

Qui-Gon Jinn had many talents, but cooking was evidently not one of them. Not only did Obi-Wan find the food on his plate unappealing, it was unidentifiable. The apprentice mentally thanked Master Li for her years of insisting he eat whatever was put in front of him, no matter the taste, texture or rarity.

Qui-Gon didn't seem to notice, however, as he dove into his meal with gusto. He was enjoying the food so much, Obi-Wan began to wonder if some animal had once delivered him a blow to the head severe enough to permanently destroy his sense of taste.

They sat at the small table in Qui-Gon's private quarters. As he walked into the rooms, Obi-Wan realized that the last time he had been there, he had been struggling to draw the raging healer back from the grip of the Dark Side. In fact, other than that terrible night, this was the first time the two of them had really been alone, without some animal or activity on which to focus their attention.

Although Obi-Wan was quite comfortable when he was doing something with the healer, the idea of sitting through a meal in Qui-Gon's quarters made him nervous. What would they talk about?

Worse yet, what if Qui-Gon brought up whatever was developing between the two of them? Obi-Wan really didn't want to talk about his emotions when he understood them so poorly himself. He would just have to steer conversation safely away from anything too personal.

Obi-Wan realized within minutes of his arrival that he had been fretting needlessly. The healer's good humor and easy tone blew away his apprehension. Obi-Wan relaxed, and as usual, found himself enjoying Qui-Gon's company, more than once catching himself staring at the man with lustful thoughts.

They spoke mostly about hawking and the various birds in the mews. Obi-Wan was fascinated by the details of caring for and training birds of prey, and Qui-Gon was a willing teacher. The master noticed the younger man's interest, and none too subtly brought up an interesting fact.

"You probably don't know, Obi-Wan, but the position of Master of the Mews is vacant. The previous Master Falconer moved on to a job in another system."

"I'm sure that it's a highly sought-after position," Obi- Wan side-stepped around the issue. "It would be most interesting work."

It was true. The job would be fascinating. Something that a person could spend his whole life doing and never stop learning. Kind of like being a Jedi.

An awkward silence threatened, but was broken by an excited voice filtering up the stairs. Kee came bounding up the steps.

"Master Qui-Gon, sir, it's a high-priority comm for you." She crossed the room and delivered a pad into Qui-Gon's outstretched hand. After a friendly greeting to Obi-Wan, she excused herself and skipped back down the stairs.

As Qui-Gon flipped on the device, Obi-Wan studied his plate, trying to decide how much more he needed to eat in order not to insult his host. Maybe just one more bite would suffice. He dutifully filled his fork.

A sudden wave of fury washed over him, rocking his mind and body.

"Damn them! Damn them to all the hells in all the galaxies!" Qui-Gon shouted in a rage, flinging the commpad across the room. It cracked with a sharp snap as it hit the wall, falling to the floor in pieces. He knocked over the chair as he abruptly stood and began to cast about the room, as if looking for something else to throw.

"Qui-Gon! What's happened?" Obi-Wan demanded.

The healer whirled to reveal a face livid red with anger. "They've gotten away with it! Those evil torturers have been released. They're probably off the planet by now."

Qui-Gon was so enraged, Obi-Wan couldn't quite catch what was happening. "Do you mean the ones arrested at the animal mill? They were released by the authorities?"

The master pulled himself up to his full commanding height, and spoke with finality. "Yes, but they are not going to get away with it. I won't allow it."

What Obi-Wan was not going to allow was a repeat of the incident from several nights ago. He stepped forward quickly to stand in front of Qui-Gon, and grabbed the larger man by the arms.

"Stop this! You will not do this again, do you hear me Qui-Gon Jinn?" Obi-Wan was shaking on the inside, but his words were strong.

Qui-Gon shook his head. "You don't know, Obi-Wan. You weren't there. If you had seen the horror of it, you would understand." He shuddered. "It haunts my dreams."

"No, Qui-Gon, I wasn't there," Obi-Wan snapped back. "But I can certainly imagine it. I know how cruel one life form can be to another. I've seen it too many times, on too many worlds. I've seen sentient life forms enslaved and living in filth, beaten into submission by their cruel masters. I know what evil is."

Qui-Gon gestured broadly with his arms, "Then you do understand! You know why I have to do something to stop this travesty."

"No, Qui-Gon. It is not our place to impart justice. That is not the role of a Jedi."

"Ah, well there you have it, Obi-Wan. I am not a Jedi," Qui-Gon added decisively.

Obi-Wan thumped the healer's chest with his forefinger as he spoke. "Qui-Gon Jinn, you may not have earned the designation of Knight, but you are Jedi in all the ways that matter. You are kind and wise, and you have a grasp of the Living Force that surpasses most of the masters at the Temple. You are Jedi, Qui-Gon, in your heart and in your mind. And that's how I know you will not take action against those criminals."

"No, Obi-Wan. I can't let it go. They must not go unpunished."

Qui-Gon stepped away from Obi-Wan and strode into his bedroom, with the apprentice close on his heels. Qui-Gon extracted a brown satchel from a cupboard and began to thrust random items into it in a misguided attempt at packing.

Obi-Wan grabbed the satchel and flung it across the room. "You will not take action against them," he yelled. "I won't let you."

"You won't let me!" Qui-Gon laughed. "You couldn't stop me if you had to, Obi-Wan Kenobi."

In response, Obi-Wan reached out to the Force, filling himself with energy of the Light. He swept his hand forward, neatly lifting and depositing the outraged master healer onto his bed with a sudden thud.

Qui-Gon struggled to get up, spluttering in protest, but quickly realized he had been outmaneuvered. Obi-Wan came up to the bed and stood over the master, whom he held tightly in a Force-restraint.

"Do I have to repeat myself, Qui-Gon? Listen carefully. You are a healer. I can't believe it is within you to harm those animal-breeders. That is not who you are, and not what you stand for."

Qui-Gon's glared at Obi-Wan for a long moment, time measured in rapid heartbeats and quivering breaths. Slowly, his face crumbled, and the tension left his shoulders.

Obi-Wan released the Force-hold. He sat down on the bed and gathered Qui-Gon into his arms. The healer latched onto him tightly, as if Obi-Wan might choose to walk away.

That was the last thing Obi-Wan would have done at that moment. He carded his fingers through Qui-Gon's long, soft hair, seeking a means to ease his distress.

"If only I had done more," Qui-Gon choked out, speaking into Obi-Wan's chest. "There must have been something else I should have done."

Obi-Wan held the healer tightly, and whispered, "You can't do everything, Qui-Gon. Sometimes you do everything within your power to right a wrong, and it just isn't enough."

He reached out to comfort Qui-Gon's mind, finding the tendril of a connection that had been wavering between them for days. He used the tentative link to send reassurance, and offer his strength and support.

A mental blow hit Obi-Wan like a tauntan's kick, so powerful that it made his head snap back. A flood of emotions followed, filling his mind with the remnants of anger and anxiety that still rippled through Qui-Gon, and most of all, the regret that he could do no more. Obi-Wan dropped his mental shields quickly, communicating the warmth and affection he felt for the healer.

Qui-Gon didn't speak, but little by little, Obi-Wan could feel him banishing the negative energy, willing away the hatred. He replaced it with the power of the Living Force, breathing deeply and renewing himself with the spirit of the life forms around him. Most of all, he drew from the Force energy which Obi-Wan offered.

When he had regained a degree of balance, he at last looked up into Obi-Wan's eyes. He looked so sad, the apprentice thought. Here was a man who could not bear accepting an outcome he deemed morally wrong.

Obi-Wan touched Qui-Gon's face with his fingertips, mentally showing him the tremendous respect he felt for him.

"Stay with me tonight, Obi-Wan Kenobi."

"Of course, Qui-Gon. I'll stay right here." He bent down and kissed the healer, feeling a rush of affection - no, of love - pass into his mind.

Exhaustion overtook Qui-Gon then, and he moved from Obi- Wan's embrace. They didn't bother to undress, but simply curled up with one another on the bed. Both men rolled onto their sides, Qui-Gon cuddled around Obi-Wan as though he were a child clutching a plush toy for the security it provided. With a slight Force-suggestion from Obi-Wan, the master was soon deeply asleep.

Slumber was not so quick to creep into Obi-Wan's fatigued body, probably because his mind was doing cartwheels.

A bond. There was no doubt about it now. The communication he had shared with Qui-Gon was beyond anything he'd ever experienced. He had been in the other man's mind, and felt Qui-Gon reaching into his. He had no doubt that if they tried, they could even share mind- speech.

And love. He was sure of that now, too. When he had been confronted by Qui-Gon's duress, the feeling had welled up strong and clear. It underlay all he felt for the healer, and he knew instinctively that without the love, he would not have been able to help Qui-Gon overcome his rage.

'Force, what am I to do?' he mentally bemoaned. It was only a few days before he was to leave for Coruscant. Now that he knew his feelings, the idea of parting from Qui- Gon was anathema to him

But what of his future? Could he build a life for himself on Grathos, loving the man who had become his bonded?

He needed to talk to someone about this, starting with Qui-Gon. But since the man was in a much-needed state of Force-induced sleep, that conversation would have to wait.

Obi-Wan decided on the next best thing. He carefully extricated himself from Qui-Gon's arms, and quietly headed out down the stairs to the healer's small office. He flipped on the comm unit, and composed a message to Master Li. He read it twice to be sure it conveyed his situation in the proper tone, marked it as high-priority, and pressed the send key.

Telling his tale, even if only in a comm, helped Obi-Wan to quiet his mind. He finally began to feel sleepy. He traipsed back through the darkened rooms and up the stairs, grateful to find Qui-Gon still deep in dreamless slumber.

Obi-Wan nestled next to his lover, pressing himself back into the warmth of his larger body. He closed his eyes, and for the first time in his memory, drifted to sleep wondering if he was truly meant to be a Jedi Knight.

Chapter 8

Three meters, Obi-Wan judged. Three meters between his body and the floor. It should have been at least four, he knew. He was out of practice. He pushed himself harder in his kata, trying to funnel the Force to energize his performance.

He'd awoken alone, much to his dismay. Qui-Gon had already risen and left his quarters to attend to the animals. It seemed as though Qui-Gon's personal life was often secondary to that of the beasts in his charge.

Obi-Wan rolled over onto his back and perused the very different ceiling of Qui-Gon's room. Rough-cut beams of some large tree formed the supporting structure above his head. Strong and simple, not unlike the healer.

Memories of the previous evening pecked at his mind. When he concentrated, he could still feel the soft buzz of the newly forged bond. He wondered how difficult it would be to contact Qui-Gon through their link.

He cast out for the Force signature of his lover, finding a resonance in the stables below him. *Qui-Gon?* he asked tentatively.

*I'm here, Obi-Wan Kenobi,* came the immediate reply. The apprentice shivered at the unfamiliarity of a voice in his head other than his own. Yes, they were certainly capable of mind speech.

*I would like to speak with you,* Obi-Wan sent in rejoinder.

*I'm needed here for a while. I will find you in an hour or two.*

Obi-Wan acknowledged his acceptance, and set to wondering how to spend the intermittent time.

Katas, he decided. A strenuous physical workout would help to clear his mind before talking to Qui-Gon. Centering was so much easier when he had expended excess physical energy in the highly structured forms.

After dressing, he headed down the stairs, then wound through the wide aisles of the barn to Storm's stall. She tossed her head and nickered a friendly greeting as he approached. Obi-Wan realized he would miss the horse when he left Grathos. If he left Grathos.

Once the horse's needs had been met, the padawan turned his steps up the path toward the main buildings of the ranch headquarters.

He was lucky enough to find just what he needed - an unoccupied workout room with a high ceiling. He stripped off his tunic and boots, and took a moment to focus before he moved into his exercises. With an effort of self- discipline, he strictly banished all thoughts of his relationship with Qui-Gon.

He started simply, with katas several stages below his current rating. He labored through one form to the next, increasing in difficulty until he reached the kata he had been striving to perfect for the past few months. This was the form with the acrobatic sequences that had impressed his fellow padawans.

Except this time, it was just not right. He repeated the last three moves, striving to regain the height he knew he was capable of. Better, he thought. Not quite the same, but better. He flowed into the rest of the routine.

He knew instantly when Qui-Gon entered the room. The man did nothing to interrupt him, but merely sat on the floor, leaning against the wall to observe.

The presence of his bonded was invigorating. Obi-Wan felt a surge of Force energy in the core of his being, and channeled it into his kata. He bounded up, over four meters this time, he knew. This was what it was supposed to feel like. He realized that something had been missing until moments ago. The difference was Qui-Gon.

He continued through the final two sections of the kata, and with one last turn to the left, he landed lightly on the practice mat. He paced across the width of the room as he cooled down, hands on hips, allowing his heart and his breathing to slowly regain their normal pace.

As he turned to head back across the room, he saw Qui-Gon striding deliberately toward him. The look on his face was startling, almost savage. Obi-Wan took a step back, unsure of the strong emotions flooding through the bond.

Qui-Gon grabbed him by the shoulders, piercing him with his eyes.

"You didn't tell me you could fly, Obi-Wan Kenobi," he rasped, raking his large hand through Obi-Wan's hair, pulling briefly on his braid.

His eyes narrowed. "Do you know what you are? You are my tiercel."

Obi-Wan was engulfed by the master, by his mind, his lips, his hands. He was claimed - thrown to the floor and his clothes ripped from his body.

Qui-Gon devoured him. Obi-Wan could do nothing but surrender to the desire and possession that rolled over him. His own need soared along with his lover's, melding through their bond.

He was flipped so his hands and knees pressed into the red practice mats. He felt his cheeks spread before something warm and wet touched his opening. Qui-Gon's tongue, he realized with shock, as the ecstasy of it made him cry out. Oh, this was bliss.

It got better. Obi-Wan moaned as he felt himself spread and loosened from the inside. The Force? Qui-Gon must be manipulating the Force to prepare him. But it was a fleeting thought, driven from his mind as he was filled by a hardness that made his vision blur. He was no longer sure if the red he saw was the coloring of the mats or his own desire.

It hurt. But, wait. Breathe.

It was...good. In fact, it was wonderful.

He was in motion then, driving back as hard as Qui-Gon drove forward. Obi-Wan reached into the fully-formed bond, and was nearly overcome by the joy of experiencing Qui-Gon's ecstasy along with his own. He was not going to last long.

Qui-Gon reached around to stroke Obi-Wan's erection, matching their lust-driven rhythm. *Come for me, Tiercel,* he demanded.

Obi-Wan threw his head back and roared as he came, spilling his seed over Qui-Gon's hand and the mats beneath him. Qui-Gon's orgasm exploded within his mind and his body as large hands clutched his hips, finalizing his claiming with pounding thrusts.

They collapsed on the mats, struggling for air. Their limbs were so entwined that it would have been difficult for an observer to tell which arm or leg belonged to which man. The continued contact filled a primitive need in them both.

Obi-Wan knew it was time to say aloud what they had already shared in their minds.

"I love you, Qui-Gon Jinn."

Obi-Wan heard the other man's breath catch, followed by a shaky exhalation of air.

"I've been waiting so long for you to say that. It seems like forever." Qui-Gon maneuvered within the tangle of their arms so that he could gaze at Obi-Wan. "I love you, my Tiercel."

"And..." Obi-Wan hesitated, feeling slightly foolish in stating the obvious. "We've bonded."

Qui-Gon nodded. "The Force has gifted us."

Obi-Wan struggled loose from Qui-Gon's embrace, and sat up, drawing his torn leggings up around his hips. He wasn't so sure this was a gift, he thought bitterly.

Qui-Gon quickly slid up behind him, drawing him back against his chest. "What is it? Does the bond make you so unhappy?"

"Can't you see, Qui-Gon?" he asked. "I'm leaving! In five days, I am supposed to get on a ship with the rest of the padawans and go back to Coruscant. What are we going to do?"

Qui-Gon scooted back a bit and began to knead Obi-Wan's shoulders. "We will wait and see what happens. Five days is a long time. Many things can happen between now and then. For now, I intend to love you with all my heart, Tiercel, for there is nothing else I can fathom."

The strong hands massaging Obi-Wan's overworked muscles succeeded in drawing some of the distress from his mind. Maybe Qui-Gon was right. He needed to trust in the Force that there was some purpose to this seemingly impossible situation.

He also remembered the message he'd sent Master Li. She would offer some guidance in her return comm. He clung to that hope.

They rose and headed to the 'fresher facilities. They found comfort in touching their minds and bodies as the hot water pounded over them.

That afternoon, Obi-Wan gathered his few personal belongings from his room in the dormitory, and moved them to Qui-Gon's quarters. If he only had a few days to share with his bonded before he left, he was not going to be spending the nights alone.

As it turned out, the days spun by uneventfully. Obi-Wan passed his exams without any significant problems, except he had to be careful not to think too loudly as he struggled with some of the questions. A particularly hard think was likely to invoke a response from the master healer through their bond. That was clearly cheating, the apprentice reprimanded himself.

He helped Qui-Gon in the stables for a time, but found himself drawn back to the mews. He took up the training of one of the passage birds, and was able to ride with D'nar when he took the passage tiercel on its first hunt. The longwing didn't catch anything, but willingly accepted the boy's commands and returned to the fist when called, so the trainers were pleased.

On the home front, Obi-Wan took over cooking duties immediately, claiming that he needed to do something to help out. The healer acceded gracefully, although Obi-Wan suspected he had in fact deduced the young man's opinion of his culinary skills.

At night, the two men fell into bed and expressed their love physically, sometimes with tenderness, sometimes with raw eroticism. Obi-Wan learned much from his bonded about the nuances of making love, for Qui-Gon was as generous and caring in his bed as he was in the rest of his life. Each night they came together eagerly, immersing themselves in the sweet pool of their love, emerging both exhausted and rejuvenated.

The bond grew stronger each day, both of their minds humming with the link which had formed between them. Their mind speech progressed to the point where Obi-Wan was sometimes unsure if he had heard Qui-Gon with his mind or with his ears. He knew instinctively where Qui-Gon was at all times, and his constant presence in the back of his mind was a source of comfort and strength.

They did not speak again of Qui-Gon's brush with the Dark Side, but Obi-Wan watched carefully for any signs that the healer might still harbor vengeful thoughts. If there were any remnants of his struggle against the Darkness, they were not discernible through the bond. Obi-Wan began to believe that the evil had truly been purged from the healer's mind.

So the days progressed, but in the earliest hours of each morning, Obi-Wan lay staring at the ceiling, listening to Qui-Gon's deep, steady breathing. The departure deadline loomed ominously. He didn't know how he could possibly leave.

Obi-Wan had developed a vision of what life would be like if he stayed on Grathos. He would become Master of the Mews, help Qui-Gon in the stables, and teach the Jedi padawans who came to the planet. Most importantly, he would be with the man he loved. It would be an uncomplicated life, without the hardship and danger he knew awaited him as a Jedi Knight. Simplicity had its own appeal.

But he had long ago committed himself to the life of a Jedi. He had taken an oath to his master, and to the Jedi Code. It was not something he could turn away from easily. As much as he grappled with the problem, he could come to no firm decision.

Two days before the padawans were scheduled to depart, a high-priority message arrived for Obi-Wan. He took a moment to center himself before flipping on the pad, determined to be open to whatever his master advised. He read:

My dear Obi-Wan,

Well, you certainly have been busy, haven't you? I send my apprentice away to learn to ride, and he falls in love with the Master Animal Healer!

Sorry for teasing, Padawan, but it was certainly a surprise to receive your comm. I am happy to know that you have found someone who means so much to you. To do so at a young age is certainly a gift. From what you describe, I am sure that you have indeed bonded with Qui- Gon Jinn.

Padawan, love is the purest expression of the Force throughout the galaxies. Within the Force, love is a tangible energy. It is this energy that forges the bond between two souls. There is nothing you can do to prevent it, Obi-Wan, except to stop loving this man, and I very much doubt that you would choose to do so.

You have a difficult decision before you, my friend: To stay with your bonded, or to return to your studies. I cannot tell you what to do. I can only encourage you to listen to the Force. Its voice is true.

You may be a young man, Obi-Wan, but you are wise. I will respect whatever decision you come to.

May the Force be with you, my padawan.

Your loving Master,

Li

Well, his master had always had a talent for being simultaneously comforting and frustrating. He would need to meditate on her words, and concentrate more on the voice of the Force.

Chapter 9

Obi-Wan leaned back and tipped his face toward the sun, resting his weight on his backward-stretched arms. He felt like some giant poikilotherm gathering solar energy to maintain its body temperature. Qui-Gon sat close beside him on the flat, smooth stones bordering the mountain lake where they had first made love.

On this last scheduled day on Grathos, the master had once again awoken him before dawn with his urgent, "Come, Obi- Wan Kenobi. Ride with me." At least there had been no Force-push gilding the words.

Qui-Gon had packed provisions while Obi-Wan saddled the horses. They started out of the stableyards just as the first pink rays of light colored the sky.

Obi-Wan led the way up the trail through the forest, playing a mental game with his bonded, who quizzed him on the names of the various plant and animal species they passed along the way. Obi-Wan was astounded at just how much he had learned in the short time he'd been there.

The two men arrived at the lake as the sun approached its apex, and ate immediately, their rumbling stomachs evidence of their lack of breakfast. They kept their mood light, speaking of inconsequential things despite the significance of the day. Obi-Wan tried to stay in the moment, enjoying the gift of a wonderful day in the presence of his love.

Finally, though, there seemed to be no more words. They fell to silence, entranced by dozens of violet-green birds performing dramatic aerobatics over the surface of the lake in their pursuit of insects. Obi-Wan considered incorporating some of their moves into a kata. His master was always encouraging him to develop personalized forms.

But, would he...?

Even though he was loathe to break the serenity of the day, he needed to talk about his impending decision. He stared at the birds as he spoke.

"What should I do, Qui-Gon?"

The master sighed, and shook his head. "I cannot answer that question for you, Tiercel. It is your life."

"But we are bonded! Whatever decision I make influences your future as well as my own. You certainly have a say in determining your own future."

Qui-Gon gazed into the distance. "The future is a nebulous thing, Obi-Wan." He glanced at the younger man, one eyebrow raised. "If you really want my advice, I think that you have been asking yourself the wrong question."

"What do you mean?"

Qui-Gon picked up a bluish stone, testing its weight in his hand. "I have lived a good many years longer than you, my Tiercel, and one of the few things I have truly learned is that the future is always changing. We never know what life will bring us from one day to the next." He smiled wryly at his love. "Our bond is proof enough of that."

"You have been struggling to decide your future, to decide whether you still are meant to be a Jedi Knight. You worry about what your life will hold in five years, or ten." He stroked the smooth stone with his thumb.

"In fact, Obi-Wan Kenobi, the only decision you have to make is whether tomorrow morning you will get on the transport and leave Grathos. You will make that decision, and live out the day, Force willing. Then there will come another morning, and you will again decide how to spend that day. Then another, and another, and so the future will unfold around you. But each day will always bring a choice."

"You have a lifetime of days before you, Tiercel. At this moment, you only need to decide what to do on one of them." He punctuated his statement by throwing the stone into the lake, causing a series of ripples to scurry outward across the water.

Obi-Wan thought about his lover's words. What he'd said was true in the simplest sense, but Obi-Wan wasn't sure if he could live so fully in the moment.

"I don't think I can live without a goal. I must have something to strive for."

Qui-Gon nodded his head vigorously. "Yes, of course you need a goal. We make our daily decisions based on our goals. But those aspirations are not written in stone. Even they may change as our lives progress."

Obi-Wan thought Master Li would agree with the healer's words. He was reminded of the counsel in her message.

"My master says I should listen to the voice of the Force, that its voice is true.

"And what has the Force told you?"

"To be honest, Qui-Gon, I have been so overwhelmed by the enormity of the choice, I have not been able to clearly hear the Force." He kicked dismally at the stones in front of him. "Maybe I have been asking the wrong question."

Obi-Wan turned to face his love. "Tell me, Qui-Gon. What do you want me to do?"

Qui-Gon replied with a question of his own. "How long will it be before you take your trials?"

"I honestly don't know. An apprentice's progress is continually monitored by the Council. When he or she is deemed ready, the trials are conducted. From some of the comments Master Li has made, I would guess that I have a year left as a padawan, maybe less."

Qui-Gon nodded his head thoughtfully, and picked up another stone. White this time, with a black band running through it. He studied it for a long moment before speaking.

"I want you to go."

"What?" Obi-Wan responded in surprise.

"Obi-Wan, only a few days ago you told me that you have spent your entire life striving to be a Jedi Knight. Now you are only months away from achieving your goal, but you would cast it all away."

"I have been Master Animal Healer on this ranch for many years - a multitude of days. I care for the animals, deal with problems, train the apprentice healers - do whatever needs to be done. But, until you came into my life, I didn't realize how many of those days I spent in loneliness."

He cast the stone aside, and took Obi-Wan's hand. "Now I have our bond. It fills me with joy. It will sustain me through your absence."

He leaned forward to brush his hand through Obi-Wan's hair, and toy briefly with his braid. "It's only a year, my Tiercel. Our love will survive for that many days. Return to your master and earn the title of Knight. Then you can come back to me, and we will again decide what to do on the next day of our lives."

Qui-Gon pulled Obi-Wan close to his side, wrapping his arm around him. They sat for a long time in silence. The contact with Qui-Gon's body was a comfort to Obi-Wan, making him feel needed and loved, giving him the strength to make the decision he'd dreaded.

When the sun became noticeably lower in the sky, they knew it was time to return to the ranch. They wound their way back down the path to the stables, and turned the horses out to graze.

Obi-Wan walked slowly but steadily to the mews, furthering his intention with each step. Bartram and D'nar were not there, so he left them a note on a commpad. He spent a long time wandering about the mews, cementing his memories. He studied each of the beautiful birds he had been privileged to work with, so that later he could recall every detail of their sculptured forms.

The two men did not make love that night, but lay in each other's arms, sharing endearments and confirming the depth of their love through their bond. They slept as dawn approached, dreaming the same dream, both of them flying over the crystal blue lake.

Obi-Wan packed his belongings in the morning, his movements leaden but resolute. It took only a few moments, even with Qui-Gon interrupting to bestow an embrace and a long, sweet kiss.

When it was apparent that there was no longer any reason to delay leaving the healer's quarters, Obi-Wan sighed and headed toward the stairs. Qui-Gon stopped him, though, with a soft touch to his arm. Obi-Wan turned to find that his bonded held out a gift.

It was a falconer's bell, one of the set that Obi-Wan had tied onto the gyr's legs so that he could find her when she dropped out of sight. Obi-Wan made it ring with a flick of his fingers, filling the room with its lovely tone.

Qui-Gon brushed the back of his fingers against his lover's cheek. "Never forget, you are my Tiercel," he whispered.

"I will think of you every day," Obi-Wan replied, leaning into the rough hand that cupped his cheek. He tucked the bell carefully into a pouch on his belt.

They made their way to the transport pad, edging up to the crowd of noisy padawans and ranch staff. Members of the group were cheerfully bidding their good-byes, promising to send frequent comms to new-found friends. Some of the travelers were already heading up the ship's ramp, anxious to return to Coruscant.

The two men stood slightly apart from the group. As Obi- Wan saw more and more of the padawans board the transport, a cold knot formed in his stomach, and he was gripped with doubt.

He turned near-panicked eyes to his love. Qui-Gon stopped him before he could speak, placing his forefinger against Obi-Wan's lips.

*You can do this. It is the right thing to do on this day.*

Obi-Wan hung his head. It was just so incredibly difficult. Love and reassurance surged through the bond, giving him the courage to face the next few moments. He looked at his bonded, not knowing what to say.

Qui-Gon smiled and gripped his shoulders. "Come back to me, my Tiercel."

Obi-Wan produced a shaky smile in return. "I promise, my love."

After one last, hard look at his lover's face, he turned and walked swiftly up the ramp without looking back.

Obi-Wan stowed his pack quickly and settled into a vacant seat. He tucked his hands into his sleeves and gripped his arms fiercely, thankful they were hidden by his robes. The floor of the transport began to vibrate with the hum of the engines.

As the thrusters lifted the ship from the ground, Obi-Wan felt a wave of love wash over him, which he returned in kind. The ground dropped away from under him then, and he knew they had left. Obi-Wan Kenobi closed his eyes and resolved not to cry.

The end.

This story continues with the sequel "Migratory Passage."