Chapter 1: The chosen one and a shadow
Summary:
Naboo is over. Qui-Gon survived without a single injury and argues over Anakin ´s future once more again. Anakin is accepted as an initiate.
Qui-Gon is to lead Obi-Wan through trials, only then he can become Anakin ´s master, he believes he can do it. Unfortunatelly it will no go smoothly as he expects.
Chapter Text
Naboo was over. Qui-Gon stood once again in the Jedi council chamber. Obi wan stood behind him – silent, worried, and focused on his master’s presence. He recognized the posture: defiant, unyielding. Qui-Gon was clashing with the council again, but this time he fought for Anakin Skywalker future.
The topic “what do we do with the boy”? was reopened. This time, things were different.
Anakin’s action during the space battle were remarkable. Even the non-force sensitive could recognize his strength, his connection to the Force. Every council member knew it could not be ignored.
“An apprentice you already have. Two you cannot train,” Yoda reminded Qui-Gon for a second time.
Obi-Wan stiffened. While Anakin had fought and won in the stars, Obi Wan had stood behind an energy field, watching his master fight Sith alone.
Once, he had thought his master would lose. But moments later, Darth Maul had been sliced in two, falling to the abys. Qu-Gon defeated him alone.
Obi-Wan felt ashamed. He had failed. He had stood there, helpless, unable to act. His master could have died. He wasn’t ready for the trials.
And yet, he heard the bargain transforming between Qui-Gon and the council. Anakin would become an initiate. He would have a time to settle down, to learn how the Temple worked, and with luck he would make friends his age.
Qui-Gon knew the council would scrutinize him. That thought unsettled him. He knew Anakin would make mistakes – and that each mistake would be judged twice as harshly.
And then there was Obi-Wan.
Qui-Gon felt the tremor in their bond. Obi-Wans guilt still clung to him – for watching from behind the energy door, for being useless when it mattered most.
But then Qu-Gon lifted his chin, shoulders squared. He would not fail. He will mentor Anakin, and when the time comes, he will become his master.
But first, he would guide Obi-Wan to his trials. He saw Obi-Wan as a Jedi the galaxy needed: strong, selfless, brave.
It will be difficult, but he believed together they can make it.
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Qui-Gon hurried through the temple corridors. For the past few months, he had been constantly on move. Because of Anakin. Anakin was the also the reason he had nearly run this time, brushing sweat from his brow as he moved.
He thought back over past few months, when Anakin had been accepted as an initiate, and the council made it clear, that he would be watched closely. And Anakin made mistakes. Many of them.
He was no longer the slave boy from Tatooine, but he still carried fear and anger with him. And along with those, he had habits, bad habits actually.
Qui-Gons worry grew deeper in his chest. The boy was strong, attuned with the force, but he was walking a narrow path. The council watched him closely and strictly, but Qui-Gon watched with something heavier. With protectiveness he couldn’t always justify, and with fear Anakin will fail. The first real problem had surfaced when it became clear, that Anakin couldn’t read.
His teachers did their best to help him, they were patient and encouraging, but not everyone was kind. Some other initiates teased him about it. “A chosen one can’t read”, they laughed. And Anakin fought back, at first, he tried to defend himself with words, then he used his fists.
Qui-Gon remembered the shame on Anakin’s face after the first fight. He wasn’t really hurt, not physically, he was hurt by the laughter. The tall Jedi master understood, it wasn’t just anger that drove Anakin, it was the reminder that he was different and worst – he thought he was being less.
Then come the swimming lesson.
Anakin, eager to prove himself once again, had climbed the highest pier without hesitation. He jumped before anyone could stop him, only to freeze the moment he hit the water. The depth beneath his feet turned his confidence into panic. Mace Windu who returned to collect forgotten data pad saw it all. Without a word, the dark korun master dove in. Moment later, he surfaced with a sputtering, wide-eyed Anakin, clutched to his chest. Qui-Gon was called in, as always. When he arrived, he saw Mace dripping wet, and he looked like soaked tooka cat.
“You owe me for this, Jinn” Mace growled through clenched teeth. His glare made Qui-Gon laugh, and because too many younglings were watching, Mace cracked a smile. Then left.
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And now, Qui-Gon was hurrying to meet with Misstress Nema – for reasons still unclear to him. When he reached her office, he knocked softly, and without waiting for a response, he stepped inside.
“Master Jinn” Mistress Nema greeted him. Her tone was sharp, and her eyes pierced through Qui-Gon like a vibroblade.
Obviously, this wasn’t first time he had been called to her office, and she clearly wasn’t interested in pleasantries. She didn’t even offer him a chair, nor she stood up. She went straight to the point.
“We do not bet in this class”. She handed Qui-Gon small satchel, jingling with coins inside. “Anakin made a bet during sabre competition, she said, her voice flat. “On himself. And he won”.
Qui-Gon chuckled. “What”?
“I confiscated the money, the moment I found out” she continued. This is not a gambling ring master Jinn. This is a Jedi temple.
Then she gave him a look, one that could cut through durasteel. “Teach your future padawan, talent isn’t enough, not without discipline”.
“I understand Mistress Nema”, Qui-Gon almost whispered. “I will talk to Anakin”. Mistress Nema gave him a stare.
“I have spoken to him already, but master Jinn, it was for a last time, if it happens again, I will report him to the council, is that clear”.
Her tone left no room for negotiations. Qui-Gons shoulders slumped, the fight in him dimmed by something heavier, than frustration. “Thank you” he said to mistress Nema. It sounded pathetic. He felt miserable.
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He found Anakin in the canteen. Sitting alone, on one of the benches, scarfing down his spaghetti like he had gone a day without food. Qui-Gon saw other initiates.
He knew he can’t approach him there, not if others would listen, watched. Instead, he caught Anakin’s eyes from across the room and with a small nod he gave him a quiet summon.
They went to thousand fountains, where they sit under an ancient tree. Qui-Gon made sure, they were alone, and then finally spoken.
“Betting on yourself, huh”. He tried to hide amusement. It was serious.
Anakin shifted a little, staring at one of the orange fish swimming beneath the surface of the water.
“I didn’t think, it will be a big deal”, he muttered, eyes still fixed on the fish. He sighed heavily. “I just wanted to prove I’m not, less not a joke”, he explained his voice soft now. “I know, feel - they don’t say it to my face, but I know what they think of me”.
He met Qui-Gons eyes, guilt written visibly on his face. “I’m sorry Master Jinn”. “Are you mad at me”?
Qui-Gon exhaled slowly and gave him and encouraging smile.
“No Ani, I’m not mad at you. But remember this, strength is not about winning. Not for us Jedis. We listen to the force, it guides and navigates us, and sometimes, it tells us to be still.”
Anakin nodded in understanding. His face red.
“You wanted to prove yourself, I understand that. But the moment we let our pride choose our path we stop listening. Betting on yourself seems harmless, but its still ego reaching out, you know”? “Being powerful is not the some as being right, and we do not serve to ourselves, we serve others, and to the force”. Qui-Gon paused, and watched Anakin, before he added softly.
“I believe in you. But you must learn how to control your actions, you must stop and think before you act”.
The blond-haired boy nodded, his heart stopped pounding fast, and he felt calmer. He liked Qui-Gon, always calm, easy to read and ready to help him.
“I will try, master Qui-Gon, I mean it”.
Qui-Gon placed a hand on his shoulder briefly – a gesture of reassurance.
“Ok Ani, trying is enough. For now”.
They shared a quiet moment, but it was interrupted by a sharp chirp coming form the comm clipped to Qui-Gons belt. He exhaled heavily, already knowing who it could be. He checked it anyway.
Mace Windu – his voice dry as a sand on Tatooine.
“Master Qui-Gon Jinn, this is the third time I’ve called you, I know you like to ignore me, but you have a council meeting. It started 15 minutes ago”. “We would be honoured if you pay a visit”.
Qui-Gon closed his eyes. He ate nothing all day long, he run, explained and forgot about this damn meeting. “Kriff I forgot”.
Anakin smirked. “Now you are in trouble”. Qui-Gon stood up, narrowing his robe. “Yeah, probably, but unlike you, I wont bet on the outcome”.
Chapter 2: Falling apart
Summary:
Qui-Gon is busy, right after he talked to Anakin, The high Council summoned him for another evaluation and it doesn ´t go as he expect. Qui-Gon end up frustrated and with headache. Obi-Wan struggles too, he feels negleced, but he is trying anyway, hoping it will be enough.
Notes:
Here is another part. Qui-Gon defences and protects Anakin, but Obi-Wan struggles, he feels alone.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Qui-Gon was running again – only this time, opposite direction, his robes whipping around his legs as he moved through the hall of the Temple. He felt different, he knew what was ahead of him. Frustration simmered beneath his calm façade, growing with every step he took. Behind the closed council door waited something he didn’t want to face, not today, not tomorrow, maybe never.
An evaluation.
Not his missions or his choices. Anakin’s. All his mistakes, his behaviour, his temper, fear, anger. And force knew, what else they’d drag to the surface this time.
Qui-Gon clenched his jaw as he approached the chamber. They didn’t see what he saw. They saw Anakin as a danger, a risk. He saw potential. A flame, not yet shaped, but fiercely alive.
He rubbed his brow, he had a headache that wouldn’t go away easily.
He thought about Anakin – how often the boy woke up in the middle of the night, homesick and trembling. Crying for his mother he wasn’t allowed to miss.
More than once Qui-Gon had sat at his side, comforting him, murmuring soft words, wiping his tears, reassuring him, he was there for him. And then the anger.
Anakin had learned how to handle it now. How to ease it to the force. He was improving. But it was still there. Qui-Gon could feel it through the force.
The boy had so much light, but shadows clung to him too.
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Qui-Gon entered, he straightened his spine as the doors parted, revealing the circle of masters waiting for him. They all looked at him – some gazes calm, some wary.
Mace Windu stood with his arms crossed, Yoda looked more like a green stone. Qui-Gon stepped inside, revealing his feeling to the force.
“Master Jinn,” Mace said his voice sharp. “Let’s begin”.
Qui-Gon sat down, arms crossed over his chest. They will discuss Anakin now. Not every detail, no, they could feel Anakin’s turbulence through the force.
“How about Rod”? Mace asked first question and Ki Adi Mundi nodded in agreement.
Gui-Gon flinched. He remembered the accident well, too clearly still. An Initiate named Rod, cornered Anakin outside the sparring halls.
“You are a slave with lightsabre”. He sneered, but Qui-Gon who stood nearby heard it almost clearly.
Before he could act, Anakin attacked. Hard. In took only a minute to separate them, but Rod had his nose broken and was taken to an infirmary. Anakin stood there, trembling with anger, his fists still clenched, eyes wild. It had taken minutes till Qu-Gon managed to calm him down. It took longer to explain, to make it up right with Rod.
And now, Qui-Gon explain it again, on front of whole council. But they only saw it, as another failure. The boy is risk, dangerous. Too dangerous to train.
“He is ten, Qui-Gon replied sharply, he’s been ripped from everything. You expect serenity overnight”?
“But he assaulted Rod, he’s combative, defiant”, said Mace.
“Rod used the word slave. Its still too fresh for him. Would you have remained calm, silent”, Qui-Gon asked his voice firm, arms crossed over his chest, defending Anaking once again.
A long silence followed.
Yoda watched but said nothing yet. Then Plo Koon spoke.
“We have options – Agri corps”.
“No” Qui-Gon stood up, almost jump. “Do you really want to send the Chosen one to dig roots in the dirt”?
Mace stood up too, locking his gaze with Qui-Gon.
“Well, if he continues like this, then yes. Its better option than to watch him fail and takes others with him.”
Yoda lifted his head and finally spoke.
“Much anger we sense. Much fear. Enough time young Skywalker had. Too stubborn he is”.
Qui-Gons hand´s clenched at his sides.
“You won’t send him away, I will leave order if I must. He stormed out of council chambers. Pain in his head worsen.
Qui-Gon felt desperate. Agri corps. He won’t allow it to happen. But he felt cornered. He didn’t know what else to do. Not with Anakin, but with the council, they have completely different view.
The council saw the prophecy as an ancient riddle, interpreted repeatedly. Mace even stated they do not shape Order around a myth. But to Qui-Gon it was no myth. He believed that force guided him to Anakin. The living force. And Qui-Gon trusted the living force – it guided him, not council.
They didn’t see Anakin. Not truly. To them, the boy was a problem to be managed, not a life to understand. Qui-Gon sometimes felt like they stopped listening to the living force long time ago. He went to the canteen to eat, but it was closed already. He was hungry, headache change into migraine, and a deep frustration took over. He walked to Thousand fountains instead – to connect with the living force – to meditate.
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A few days later.
Obi wan was frustrated. He had been searching for his master for over two hours now. Their bond was silent – closed off – and Qui Gon had left no message about his whereabouts.
He needed him. For study the scheduled simulation exercise – it was important.
Obi Wans class had been divided into two teams for a field tactic scenario. One team was led by Bruck Chun, second team by Garen Muln. Masters were required to oversee, help with studies and perhaps even to assist. It was a game simulation designed to mimic real world missions.
Qui Gon had promised to help him with studies and planning.
And yet, just like too many times recently, he didn’t show up. He already missed training sessions, other studies sessions and now this. Obi Wand could feel the tight knot in his chest twisting tighter. He knew he needed Jinn’s assistance, his experiences. He needed his master guidance.
Obi Wan closed his eyes, he didn’t want to think, but maybe, just maybe, he really wasn’t the priority anymore. Finally, Obi Wan found Qui Gon. He wasn’t in the Council chambers, training halls, their quarters – but in an infirmary.
Anakin stretched his leg muscles. He was in an infirmary room, warm blankets draped over his leg. Qui Gon Jinn sat nearby in a chair, reading him a story.
Obi Wan stood in the doorway, frozen. He had finally found his master. He sat by Anakin’s bedside reading him softly, his voice low and warm.
For a moment, Obi Wan, felt like he couldn’t speak. He was still Jinn’s padawan, but lately, it hadn’t felt that way. He had needed guidance, support, but Qui Gon simply hadn’t been there. Now he saw them together and something inside him ached. Earlier that day, Obi-Wan had waited for Qui-Gon at the archives, but he never come.
And now, when he watched Qui-Gon and Anakin it simply stung sharper, as he stood outside the infirmary room. He opened his mouth to speak, but Qui-Gon turned to him with a tired and worried look and said quietly,
“I’m sorry Obi-Wan, but Anakin needed me, please wait outside, I’ll be right there”.
So, Obi-Wan did. He tried to be patient, tried to meditate, but after some time he was unable to wait any longer. He went into the room, only to find out Qui-Gon was asleep in a chair, his head tilted back slightly. Anakin was nestled close, curled under the blanket.
Obi-Wan stared at them for a long moment. Something hollow opened in his chest. He turned and left. Quietly, sad, worried for his future now more than ever.
When Qui-Gon finally returned to their quarters, the lights were dim. The chrono showed how late it was.
Obi-Wan was asleep on the floor near the low table, his cloak used as a blanket and his breath slow and even. A few datapats were scattered around him, some still active, lines of mission data and tactical notes glowing faintly – he had done the stimulation alone.
Qui-Gon stood there, in the doorway, the silence pressing in around him. He hadn’t mean to forget, hadn’t mean to choose one over the other. But he had!
He stepped forward, then stopped. Shall he wake Obi-Wan, what could he even say? His hand hovered over Obi-Wan shoulder, but he didn’t touch him, didn’t wake him up.Instead, he knelt quietly and began gathering datapads, putting them on the small table neatly. He rubbed his temples, the headache returned, frustration too – Qui-Gon was uncertain how to fix what was already fraying. He needed to meditate, he needed to sleep too. Tomorrow he will talk to Obi-Wan.
Notes:
I hope you enjoy it. Im not sure when I will post next chapter, but I try as soon as possible.
Chapter 3: Failure and realization
Summary:
This chapter is shorter one. Obi-Wan fails the simulation game and Qui-Gon realises how much he negleced him. Obi-Wan is ashamed and walks away before Qui-Gon can talk to him.
Notes:
Third chapter is finished. I hope you like it so far.
Chapter Text
Qui-Gon woke up, the throbbing headache from previous day, was now dulled to a bearable level. He glanced at the chrono – 9 o’clock. Panic surged through him. He had overslept. Obi-Wan would be gone by now – hours ago. His padawan never missed a schedule, unlike he did now.
Qui-Gon sat up slowly, running a hand down his face. He had meant to rise early and talk to Obi-Wan before he left. After everything that had happened yesterday after all the time he had forgotten about him, he owed him that much. An apology, at least.
But now, the chance was gone. He failed him, again.
Jinn run down the corridors, his footsteps echoing sharply against the metal walls. He knew exactly where Obi-Wan would be.
The simulation room.
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Two teams were preparing to face off. One team was led by Bruck Chun, the other team by Garen, one of Obi-Wan best friend. Obi-Wans part was really important, he was to protect strategic point. Part where Obi-Wan needed his masters help, to tell him weak points, he needed his guidance but never got one.
This was more than a game. The simulation mimicked real-life combat missions, and it was testing padawans skills and teamwork under pressure. Even one team would eventually loose, nobody expected a big failure by some mistake, that could have been predicted, it was something they couldn’t afford.
Qui-Gon reached the simulation room, just as the exercise ended. He immediately knew it didn’t go well for Garen’s team, and he quickly learned why.
Brucks team had launched a fierce, aggressive attack to the strategic point straight down the centre, which forced Obi-Wan to commit most of his power to protect the flanks. Obi-Wan anticipating a more cautious advance but had underestimated the bold frontal assault. By spreading his defences thin, he left the centre vulnerable – Brucks forces overwhelmed it, then captured the strategic point.
Now Qui-Gon stood silently nearby, watching his padawan with heavy heart. He had to witness his failure firsthand, he knew the young man try all he could to protect the strategic point but failed. His guilt deepened. This was exactly why was supposed to study alongside Obi-Wan – to guide him, spot these weaknesses, and prepare him for moments like this. Instead, he let him face this challenge alone.
Obi-Wan face burned with shame, the flush creeping from his cheeks to his ears. He avoided everyone’s eyes, shoulder slumped as if trying to make himself smaller. He left the room without a word, his steps heavy and uncertain.
The tall jedi master watched him go, a knot tightening in his stomach. He wished he could call Obi-Wan back, tell him it was just a lesson, but the weight of the failure hung too heavily in the air.
And there was something else too – he realized how many times he had overlooked Obi-Wan, too caught up in other duties, too distracted to truly see his apprentice. And when Obi-Wan tried to speak to him, he often snapped, unknowingly pushing him further away. He hadn’t seen Obi-Wan to smile in weeks. The light in his eyes had dimmed. Qui-Gon chest tightened. He had to do better, not just as a master in skill, but also as one who truly cared.
Chapter 4: What he carries
Summary:
High Council summoned Obi-Wan to explain the fail simulation game, he is tired, ashamed but refuse to tell the truth - that he prepared alone, because Qui-Gon forgot about him. Mace doesn ´t believe him, and decides to talk to Qui-Gon before he loses Obi-Wan.
Notes:
Another chapter a shorter one. I hope you will still like it.
Chapter Text
Obi-Wan found himself at the Thousand Fountains, a quiet place, deep within the Jedi temple. He needed to be alone. He listened the gentle sound of water glowing, the shimmer of koi fish swimming beneath the surface – it calmed him. The fish lived such a simple life. Peaceful and unburdened. Nothing like his.
He felt hollow. The failure wasn’t just tactical it was personal. A quiet confirmation of the doubts that had been gnawing at him for weeks. When his master didn’t help him, he wanted to prove he was ready anyway, that he could stand on his own, but he failed, publicly. Unmistakably. And worst Qui-Gon finally found time and saw it all.
Obi-Wan closed his eyes, the trials were approaching fast, and even Obi-Wan trained for years, he felt unprepared. The confidence that once anchored him now faltered. His master no longer seemed to have for time for him. Everything was Anakin. Always Anakin, or council. Obi-Wan exhaled heavily, the weight of expectations was pressing at his shoulders. He knew he will have to face Qui-Gon soon, speak to him, act as though he wasn’t crumbling inside. But right now, he allowed himself to sit in stillness – alone, quiet and watching the fish.
His comm rang, breaking the stillness.
A summon – the Jedi Council.
Of course, they wanted and explanation, for why he failed the simulation so badly, and for his sudden disappearance. Obi-Wan stared at the device in his hand. He knew what they had expected from him – composed posture, calm words, Jedi serenity.
And he was ok with it, he didn’t want to explain, how could he?
How could he explain or admit how lonely he felt, how unsure he was beneath the surface? How much it hurt to see his master, his mentor, anchor and friend be pulled away by the gravity of boy who only arrived 7 months ago, and who wasn’t even a padawan yet? He would say none of that, he would stand tall. Speak clearly. Show discipline. Because that was what was expected. That was what Jedi did.
He clipped the comm into his belt and rose slowly form the edge of the fountain. Whatever he felt would remain his own. Locked away.
As always.
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Council chamber
Obi-Wan stood in the centre, his hands calmly clasped behind his back, his face a practised mask. Around him, the Jedi masters sat in a circle, watched and waited. It was Mace Windu who finally spoke first, his tone firm but not unkind.
“Obi-Wan what happened?” Obi-Wan look into his eyes. “The team failed, because I made a mistake”.
Mace studied him for a moment. “Did you not trained, studied? Did your master not guide you in preparation?”
Obi-Wan quietly exhaled, then he continued, choosing his words carefully.
“I had all the materials,” he said, voice even. “Everything necessary to prepare was given to me. I’m old enough now, to take responsibility for my own readiness. I wanted to see, if I was capable, on my own”.
He kept his face serene, tone firm, even if the words scraped against a truth he couldn’t share. He couldn’t say that he felt abandoned. That Qui-Gon attention had drifted further and further toward Anakin. That he now prepared in silence. Alone in the quiet spaces of the Temple, hoping it would be enough.
Depa Billaba studied Obi-Wan quietly, her gaze gentle.
“And what of Master Jinn?” She asked. “Was he aware of your intent to take the simulation game alone?”
Obi-Wan flinched slightly. The moment stretched him, he carefully weighted every word, wishing it would be over.
“Yes, my master was aware of my intent, he encouraged me, believed in me.” Obi-Wan swallowed hard, it was a lie. But it was the only thing he could do now.
He didn’t want to put his master at odd with council again. He wanted to hold on to the very little that remained between them, or better say, that Obi-Wan held – the loyalty. He hoped his master will open his eyes and finally see him too. If he holds on, his master will finally recognize he is a good student, diligent, worth to be seen and perhaps he will be proud of him.
The meeting was over. The council dismissed him. Obi-Wan could breathe free now, they believed him.
He blinked fast, as his eyes suddenly stung. He convinced council, he finally succeeded at something, so why his heart ached so much, why did he feel so lonely.
Chapter 5: Broken promise
Summary:
Mace talks to Qui-Gon as a friend, he tells him Obi-Wan covered for him, Qui-Gon is surprised and aslo upset, because he knows he neglecet Obi-Wan for too long. Mace has a plan and wats to help and Qui-Gon agrees. He finds Obi-Wan and talks to him, but Anakin is unwell, he must leave his padawan alone again.
Chapter Text
The meeting with Obi-Wan was over, clear. Masters Billaba and Mundi already switched topic – they now discussed mission to Dantooine. But not everyone was convinced. Mace Windu still thought of Obi-Wan. He couldn’t believe Qui-Gon would let him to work alone on something so important. Yes Obi-Wan was capable, but his trials were approaching quickly, and he needed guidance, not failures. He also didn’t buy the serene mask. He saw Obi-Wan training alone, he also knew Jinn spent most of his times smoothing over Anakin’s mistakes, and he remembered overhearing a discussion between Jinn-Kenobi and how nervously Jinn snapped at him. The young man asked him a question about astrogation rout – it was in the Archives, and Mace had been just an aisle away when that happened – the tall jedi master snapped in frustration “If you would actually pay attention, you wouldn’t need me so much”. Mace didn’t need force to tell him Obi-Wan was slipping away and Jinn was blind to it and believed Obe-Wan was doing fine in all directions. Mace exhaled slowly, something had been of for a while, and no one said or asked anything – not to Jinn nor to Kenobi.
That ended now.
Mace turned from the window, robes whispering behind him. If Jinn was too blind to see what was happening right on front of him, he will remind him, because Obi-Wan deserve more than silence. Mace found Jinn in a training sale two floors lower. Qui-Gon looked tired, worried and it was obvious he was searching for Obi-Wan. He reached Jinn, just when he was about to leave. His face was drawn with urgency.
“Sorry Mace I don’t have a time.” He said, his voice firm.
“If you are looking for Obi-Wan, I just want to tell you, he just finished his meeting with the Council”.
Jinn froze, his eyes locking onto Maces with flicker of relief, but also worry. He knew what was discussed, the failed simulation.
“Was he reprimand?” he asked with a sight.
Mace shook his head “no, he wasn’t”, “but I need to talk to you my friend”.
Jinn nodded, and the urgency in his eyes now laced with unease. Mace invited him for quick dinner, which was a bit odd given the weight in the air, but Jinn didn’t protest. Minutes later they sat across from each other trays with food between them. Mace stirred his soup, before he said. “Kenobi covered for you”.
Qui-Gon expression changed immediately, and his shoulders stiffened, but Mace continued.
“He said you allowed him to run the simulation alone, and he also said everything is just all right”. “But I know he is slipping, Qui-Gon, you neglect him, and when you are not, you’re snapping at him”.
The words hit hard, Jinn jaw tightened but Mace hasn´t finish yet.
“He is loyal, too loyal and he is protecting you, no matter what the cost will be”.
“I’m busy, you know Anakin and council, after all you are a member, and you all watch Anakin too strictly, it’s hard to guide two people with such a different need”, Jinn said firmly.
“I see”, Mace said quietly.
“But Anakin has teachers, and mentors to handle him, you decided to take the responsibility, but Obi-Wan is your padawan and he is about to face the Trials, and you barely see him, barely speak to him unless its correction or criticism”. “And Qui-Gon don’t forget Obi-Wan has 4 months to Trials, then he will be gone assigned to his first solo mission, and the strong bond between you, the camaraderie will be gone, then you might miss him”.
Qui-Gon sat back, the words cut deeper he was willing to admit. Mace was right, loosing Obi-Wan would be bad, and he knew he wasn’t fair to the young man, for some time now.
“You know what, take Obi-Wan to a planet, just the two of you, meditate, study, talk, catch the time you’ve lost, I will keep an eye on young Skywalker”. That surprised Jinn, but he knew Mace meant it. He smiled lightly at him, Mace was friend, if he said he will keep an eye on Anakin he believed him. He nodded in approvement. Taking Obi-Wan away, have quiet time together. It will work, it must.
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Obi-Wan avoided his master for 3 days, not out of anger, but shame. He didn’t want to approach him still feeling bad about the failed simulation.
But Qui-Gon waited, he waited outside of Obi-Wans classroom, standing still near the doorway, hands folded calmly behind his back. When the student filed out, he simply grasped lightly Obi-Wans elbow. Obi-Wan flinched, his shoulders tensed, but he didn’t turn away. He didn’t speak either.
“Will you have a lunch with me, Obi-Wan”? Qui-Gon asked not with authority, but with kindness. Obi-Wan blinked, surprised by the tone and the invitation. He hesitated, then gave a small nod. “Yes, master”.
“I owe you and apology”, Jinn began softly, “I haven’t been there for you the way I should have been”.
Obi-Wan listened carefully, after all those long months he had his master attention, Qui-Gon continued.
“I promise you, I will make it up to you. We go to planet Lirael, just me and you, for two weeks. Tomorrow I will ask council, but I’m sure they will agree, we will meditate, train, study together, and we will have some fun too”, Jinn smiled at him genuinely.
Obi-Wan looked at him, a spark of something like hope flickered in his eyes. The promise of time away with his master, the time spend together, it felt good, earned.
“It will be great master”, Obi-Wan smiled too.
The next day, the air around Obi-Wan felt lighter. For the first time in weeks, there was no tension between him and his master. He found his old travel back, and one for Qui-Gon. “I’m better pack for both of us”, Obi-Wan said, “I don’t want to forget anything we need out there”. Qui-Gon smiled at him, he hasn’t seen him so enthusiastic for such a long time, and he didn’t know until then, how much he missed it.
It was only a few hours later when Jinn’s comm chimed again. It was a healer – she said Anakin had a fever, not extremely high, but he called for his mother and for Qui-Gon. Obi-Wan looked at him, without a word he knew his master is about to leave again. Qui-Gon put his hand on Obi-Wan shoulder. “Don’t worry”, he said with an encouraging smile. “I will be back soon, you finish the packing, and we will go as planned”.Obi-Wan watched as his master left, why he didnt believe it?
Chapter 6: Darkness is comming
Summary:
Qui-Gon convinced Council to free Anakin ´s mother, but Obi-Wan must stay at the Temple to study. Obi-Wan is not happy, but doesn ´t go against his Master decision. Palpatine is furious, Jinn is dangerous to him and must be out of his way. A vicious plan forms in his head, but he has to act quickly - before Qui-Gon returns from Tatooine.
Notes:
I made Obi-Wan younger in this fic. On purpose, so he is not as ready as he was in Phantom menace.
Also I had this story in mind for a while, but I only decided to share it now. Writing is quite relaxing.
Chapter Text
As Obi-Wan feared, Qui-Gon didn´t come back. He commed Obi-Wan to say he would stay with Anakin.
Obi-Wan accepted it quietly. But after he put the comm down, the weight of it setteled in. Once again his
master had chosen Anakin over him. And even though he understood - it still hurt.
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Qui-Gon watched Anain. The boy was resting more peacefully now, but the night befor, he had cried out for his
mother in his sleep.
Quietly, Qui-Gon stepped out onto the balcony and activated his commlink. He called his secret contact on Tatoooine.
"Any news about Shmi"? he asked.
"Actually yes. I was about to call you - Shmi is freeable.
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A few days later Qui-Gon stood before the Council.
"If I free Shmi, Anakin will be much calmer. Trust me on this". Jinn said calmly, but firmly enough.
Yoda closed his eyes.
"And how about Obi-Wan, travel with you he cannot, study, train he must, his trials comming soon, hmmm?.
Mace Windu studied his friend briefly.
"You are pushing yourself in all directions, you cannot handle this alone, but I see you are right. Can you tell us more
about how you expect to free Anakinś mohter"?
Jinn explained. "There is a man Cliegg Larse, he wants to free her, but Watto is just being stubborn. If Anakin comes with
me, he can help smooth things over. I belive it will be possible". He pause, then added. "It would mean everything to him, and
I´m sure it will help settle his heart".
Yoda closed his eyes again, silent for a long moment. Qui-Gon was right - freeing Shmi will help Anakin. But it wasn´t fair to
Obi-Wan, the misstion even if it goes smoothly will take at least 5 weeks, and Obi-Wan will be alone.
"I want Master Windu to accompany you and young Skywalker". Yoda said finally. "And Qui-Gon, Kenobi must agree with you going away".
"Call Obi-Wan in".
Obi-Wan entered a few minutes later - composed as always, but aching beneath the surface.
"I understand this is important," he almost whispered. "I won´t hold my Master back. We still can travel later".
Qui-Gon looked him in thanking him silently, but Obi-Wan didn´t meet his eyes.
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Two days later, Qui-Gon, Mace and Anakin were prepared to leave.
Qui-Gon closed his travel back and put it over his shoulder - the some back he wanted to take to journey with Obi-Wan.
It was somehow heavier now.
He went to see Obi-Wan who was sitting in his room.
"Obi-Wan, I´m sorry. I didn´t plan for this".
"No, you didn´t," Obi-Wan replied. "But you are still going".
Qui-Gon exhaled heavily. "I will come back for you after we arrive. We will travel together. I promise".
"You promised before too".
A beat of silence.
"I´m sorry, Master, I have a class. I need to go". Obi-Wan turned and walked away before Qui-Gon could answer.
Qui-Gon felt the guilt settle in his chest - how many times had he left Obi-Wan behind. He was only 21. Still so young.
He needed guidance, partnership. They were supposed to study, train and meditate together as master and padawan, preparing
for trials together. But he was leaving Obi-Wan again.
As they passed through the Temple´s main hall, Qui-Gon saw Obi-Wan´s friends, Garen, Bant - he even spotted Bruck - they all were
surrounded by their Masters, laughting at ease.
Obi-Wan was there too. Alone. He stood a little apart, shlouders down. He looked to young and somehow smaller.
Qui-Gon remembered Maceś words, "You will miss him after trials".
He already did.
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Palpatine private chambers.
Palpatine´s hands clenched behind his back as he stared out at the endless Coruscant skyline. He was furious. This wasn´t the way it was supposed
to go. Jinn wasn´t ment to survive Naboo, but he had. And now he was forming powerful bond with young Skywalker, the boy trusted him. Followed him.
Now they even left to rescue his mother. That act alone would anchor Anakinś loyality - deeply. The tall jedi master was proving far more dangerous than
expected - defiant, intuitive and dangerously indipendent.
His secret contact from the Jedi Temple had confirmed it all: Jinn took the boy under his wing, protecting him and too much light was gathering around the boy.
The holoprojector flickered to life, casting blue glow across the room. The contact was hidden in big hood and bowed slightly.
"Jinn, Windu and the boy already left to Tatooine". The voice said.
Palpatine winced it frustration. For a moment he considered ordering their deaths - ending both Jedi master lifes on Tatooine. But even he knew, killing two Jedi masters
especially those two were nearly impossible. It would aslo draw to much attention, he could´t risk it.
No, he needed a different approach.
"Jinn must have weakness", Palpatine said coldly.
The contact hesitated, than nodded. "There might be something". "Jinn and his padawan Kenobi, they are at odd, Jinn regrets he left him behind again".
Palpatine leaned forevard slightly a plan already forming in his head, there was a glimmer of dark satisfaction in his eyes.
"Than we use that. "Regret," he said soflty. "Itś a door, and I know how to open them".
After only a few minutes, another figure appeared on holoprojector. Rough, scarred, eyes cold with cruelty -Grohl a mercenary known for getting the job done, no matter the cost.
"Lord Sidious," Grohl said , his bow was almost invisible.
Palpatine didn´t return it, instead he held up a hand, and an image flickred between them: young Obi-Wan Kenobi, face focused, eyes bright.
"Watch him, wait for your moment, then take him". Sidious ordered
Grohl tilted his head. "Other instructions"?
"Break him, mentally, physically, hide him where noone can find him, than reduce him to nothing - just an empty shell".
Palpatine stepped closer to the projection, voice low, venomous.
"Then, let Jinn find him, alive, barely. He will blame himself. Regret. Guilt. He won´t be able to train Skywalker. Never.
He turn to Grohl again, satisfied. "And then....the Skywalker boy will be mine.
The holo faded. Grohl was already moving, calculating, assembling a small loyal team. He was choosing the shadows from which to strike. Quietly, precisely.
There will be no warning, and by the time anyone will realise Obi-Wan will be gone.
.
Chapter 7: Succes, hope and darkness
Summary:
High Council agreed to rescue Anakin ´s mother, so Qui-Gon, Mace and Anakin left to Tatooine. Finally, Shmi is free and Anakin is happy. Qui-Gon feels uneasy, something is wrong, force screams at him. He hurries back to Coruscant, and tries to connect with Obi-Wan, but he doesn ´t succeed. Meanwhile Obi-Wan has a good time with his friends, and also Yoda encourages him. He feels hopefull about his future once more again, but Grohl is waiting like a shadow and he strikes before Obi-Wan can react.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Mace Windu, Anakin Skywalker and Qui-Gon jinn landed softly onto the sun-scorched sands on Tatooine. The dry heat wrapped around them immediately, every breath thick with dust and sun. For Anakin it was familiar sensation, and it was as hot as he remembered from past years. Nothing on this planet changed, the the twin suns hung mercilessly overhead, and the endless dunes shimmered with illusion of water. Their mission was clear: meet Cliegg Lars and convince Watto to sell Shmi Skywalker. It was simple in theory, but they all knew it will be harder in reality. Anakin was visibly tense, his brow furrowed, hand clenched at his sides, he didn´t talk much either. The thought of seeing his mother stirred a storm of emotion - hope, fear, guilt. Will she be proud of him? Will Wattoo really sell her and if yes, will she leave with him or stay on Tattoine?
Mace was composed as ever, projected an air of quiet authority, he watched silently, his steps measured, eyes alert. He had been on countless missions and he knew the importance of keeping calm. Qui-Gon walked slightly ahead and attuned himself to the living Force, letting its currents to guide him. He could feel Anakin’s emotions, he knew how stubborn
Watto is and how hard will be to convince him. They found Cliegg Lars outside his homestead, his face sunburned, his eyes full of concern. After a brief exchange of greetings, Cliegg led them inside to
offer drinks and little shade his homestead could provide. When the conversation turned to Watto, Cliegg shook his head.
"He is as stubborn as ever, the price for Shmi is high, because he knows I really want to free her, he won´t give her up so easily".
Mace folded his arms, his expression unreadable. "We will see, but we will do what we can, I promise", he said calmly. "If he wants money lets play it his way".
They found Watto in his cluttered shop, hunched over a half-disassembled droid, muttering to himself. When he spotted Cliegg, Mace, Qui-Gon and Anakin,
he winced, then smirked. If jedis come back for Shmi, he can ask for any price, and he would, it was something he knew how to do.
So, it started.
The conversation was tense, Mace took the lead, his voice firm but composed, offering a generous sum for Shmis freedom, Qui-Gon tried to convince Watto too, telling
him he can buy fully functional droids, make his shop better, his influence will grow too. Watto scoffed at first, shaking his head, trying to show who is the boss.
Anakin sat quietly next to Qui-Gon, heart pounding his eyes never leaving Watto. He felt the calmness radiating from Qui-Gon, and he moved closer to him, Qui-Gon felt it
and place his hand on Anakin’s back, to calm him.
Cliegg, sitting next to Mace, was no help, he was as stubborn as Watto, and to him the negotiations took way too long, he was muttering under his breath about waste of
time. But Mace and Jinn were unshakable. With each counteroffer, they tightened the pressure, until finally, Watto faltered, grumbling, counting the credits over and over
again, spitting into the sand.
Shmi Skywalker was free.
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Anakin could barely hold his joy, his face lit up with a beaming smile, brighter, than the twin suns overhead. For a first time in years, hope didn´t feel like a distant dream - it
was real. His mother hugged him tightly as only a mother could do.
They left Mos Espa behind and returned to the Lars homestead. Shmi sat beside he son, silent but glowing with quiet gratitude. The mood was lighter now and even Cliegg, gruff
and practical, seemed soften by the reunion. He prepared simple food for all of them.
After they finished Anakin walked with his mother under the shade of a moisture vaporator. He told her everything, about Coruscant, the jedi Temple all his training. Shmi listened
with tears in her eyes. "I´m so proud you Ani", she said holding his hand. Anakin looked at her, there was one question he still needed to ask. "Will you come with me to Coruscant"?
Shmi closed her eyes, "no Anakin, I will stay with Cliegg, he is kind, and my life belong with him, here, while you belong to stars". Anakin nodded, then hugged him mom with all his
strength. His mom was free, and Cliegg was kind, fair man, Anakin knew it, his heart was much lighter now.
Short distance away, Mace found Qui-Gon, standing alone at the edge of the homestead, watching the horizon as the suns began to set.
"You are not at ease", Mace said quietly.
"I left Obi-Wan at the temple, alone", finally looking at Mace, his voice low. "He is strong, ready, but I can´t shake the feeling I should have brought with us". He continued "I don´t want to
lose him, not to resentment, not to distance, when we return to Coruscant, I will be there for him - fully".
Mace studied his long time friend. He knew Qui-Gon felt guilty, and he understood why. He left behind his student, not just once, but several times and despite the tension between them,
Mace knew Qui-Gon cared for Obi-Wan deeply. But he also felt freeing Shmi was the right thing to do, if Anakin will be at peace, Qui-Gon will have time to focus on Obi-Wan and his
upcoming trials. Mace placed a firm hand on Qui-Gons shoulder, his voice calm but resolute.
"Take him to the planet as you promised, be with him. I will stay and keep and eye on young Skywalker, as I already promised".
Qui-Gon looked at Mace, he believed him, and he nodded slowly. If they will leave tomorrow, they will be back on Coruscant in a week, then he will find Obi-Wan and catch up all they lost.
"Thank you, Mace", he said quietly. He should feel easier, but he didn´t, there was something else, the Force wasn´t calm, and neither was he.
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Coruscant
For three weeks Grohl watched Obi-Wan. Silent, unseen. He observed his habits, he tracked the young Padawan through the Temple and also when he went outside. He realised how disciplined
young Kenobi was for his age - focused, careful, already showing signs of the Jedi knight, he would become.
Grohl knew his habits - when Obi-Wan ate, when he walk outside, trained studied, he knew it all, and he just waited for the right moment to snap.
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After Qui-Gon left with Mace and Anakin Obi-Wan focused on studies. He immersed himself in astrogation charts, mastering the complexities of hyperspace lanes and trade routes. He practised
two languages - Huttese and Old Corellian, speaking almost fluently, and he was determined to understand not just word but cultures too. His diplomacy scores were the highest in his class, and he
also carried himself with quiet confidence in the sparring. His record was flawless, straight A´s. Excellence in every field. But every time he received praise from his teacher or instructor, it rang hollow.
Because there was no master who would say how proud he is, who believed in him.
Obi-Wan told himself it didn´t matter. That Jedis didn´t crave recognition, and his target is to become Jedi knight, but late at night, alone in his quarters, the silence told him otherwise. He missed his Master. Obi-Wan woke up early, as always and moved quietly almost ritualistically, preparing a simple brakfast - toast, fruit and spiced tea. His master will return in two days. He stirred his tea, datapad lying on the table on front of him, his academic results were glowing, top marks across every subject - astrogation, diplomacy, languages, lightsaber forms - prove he was worthy, not just to himself, but the Council, and maybe his master too. He wandered if he should show him, will he even care?
A knock echoed through the quiet of his quarters, sharp unexpected, Obi-Wan set down the datapad. He wasn´t expectig anyone.
He crossed the room and opened the door.
Standing there was Garen Muln, arms crossed, smiling mischievously. Beside him, Bant Eerin smiling too. Garen leaned against the doorframe,
"Engough hiding Kenobi, so you messed up the simulation,we all messed up something". "Time to have fun". Garen winked at him.
"Celebration to be clear", Bant explained. "You have the best results, top of the class, you should have a good time and not wonder if you master cares". Garen looked at Obi-Wan grinning "We all know, he cares, but we do too", so today at six at Dex, better come".
Obi-Wan hesitated, then smiled, just a little. Having time out, enjoy it with friends, perhaps this is what he needed now. "Ok, Dex, at six, tonight".
His friends left, but bofore Obi-Wan could close the door, Yoda was standing there. "Hmm dinner with friend. Warm food, loud laughs. Good for the spirit it is"?
"Yes Master Yoda", Obi-Wan said softly.
Yoda stuied him shortly. "Much effort, you give, much growth I see, but sadness too". Obi-Wan lowered his gaze, but Yoda continued. "Master Jinn a great Jedi, but not present now he is. If attention he will not give after he returns, your training finish I will. Not less worthy, you are".
Obi-Wan eyes widened. "You would take me as your padawan, master Yoda"?
Yoda gave a small reasuring smile. "If needed, yes".
The ache in Obi-Wans chest loosened just slightly. He wasn´t invisible, nor forgoten, and maybe he never was.
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Dinner at Dex turned out better, than Obi-Wan expected. His friends were already there when he arrived. Garen waving him over with a grin. Bant scooting to make room so Obi-Wan could sit. Dex brought them food - spiced noodles, roasted vegetable, and various meet.
At first Obi-Wan just smiled, eating quietly, but as the evening wore on, the familiar voices and the comfort to be surrounded by those who truly cared began to melt the stiffness in Obi-Wans shoulders. He laughed really laughed for the first time in weeks. They shared stories, Garen told him about his latest training accident, and Bant told about her misquote in political ethic lecture. "C´mon Obi", Garen said, nudging him with an elbow. "You have got a future, Yoda cares, you have friends, you are not alone".
Obi-Wan looked at him and smile "Yeah, I think maybe I do".
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The jedi transport hummed quietly through the space. Only few hours away from Coruscant. Anakin played table game with Mace, and the tension between them almost gone.
Qui-Gon didn´t say much, he sat rigid, hands clasped. He was trying to connect with Obi-Wan through their bond, but it was muted, almost like a door half-shut. This was his mistake, but he tried anyway. "Come on Obi-Wan, anwer me"!
Nothing.
Jinn exhaled, reaching for his commlink. He thumbed in Obi-wans frequency. It rang once, twice.....No answer.
Qui-Gon felt force screaming at him, but right now he could´t do anything.
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"I´m taking a walk", Obi-Wan said after dinner, pulling his cloak tighter around his shoulders.
"Are you sure"? Bant asked. "Maybe we can come with you".
"No, I´m fine Bant, I had a great time with you, I just take a little walk and sort my mind, I will see you tommorow at swimming lessons".
Garen grinned. "Don´t get too philosophical under the skylights Kenobi".
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Obi-Wan walked without urgency, letting the calm of the evening settle over him. For the first time in weeks he felt lighter, more centered. I was good idea to spent time with his friends.
Qui-Gon will return by the next evening. He will talk to him...
Obi-Wan felt something a whisper through the force, familiar. "Qui-Gon"? Before he could reach his master, his comm chimed, he took it from his belt to answer it.
And then it happened.
The strike was silent precise - Grohl moved like a shadow. He hit Obi-Wan in the side of the neck, cutting his connection to the force. The young man gasped, he tried to reach for his lightsaber, but Grohl was faster. A second blow to the ribs, then a sharp jolt of something electric surged through Obi-Wans spine. He collapsed before he could even cry out. The commlink he dropped form his hand began to buzz again, but Obi-Wan was already gone.
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Qui-Gon returned to the temple, he run to the quarters he shared with Obi-Wan. Empty. Meditation chambers? Sparrin halls? Canteene?
Nothing.
Then he turned a corner and nearly collided with Bant who was heading to swimming pool. She was startled a little. Qui-Gon gripped her shoulder, eyes wild. "Where is Obi-Wan"?
Bant looked at him. Last time she really saw Obi-Wan was at Dex, and she told him.
Without another word, Qui-Gon turned and ran. He made it to Dex, searching surrounding streets, parks and alleys, calling his padawans name through the force, but also aloud, but no answer.
And then at the end of quiet park, he saw it. A small silver object lying on sidewalk. Obi-Wans commlink. Qui-Gon lifted it with trembling fingers a coldness crept his spine.
Obi-Wan was gone, he arrived too late.
Notes:
I hope you will enjoy this chapter. I will try to post another one as soon as possible.
Chapter 8: The hollow heart
Summary:
This chapter will might be hard to read. Grohl kidnapped Obi-Wan and breaks him slowly. Obi-Wan struggles to survive, but he is ill, and running out of time. Qui-Gon is desperate, he is searching for his lost padawan, but he vanished without trace. One evening a single message change it all. Together with Vokara, he goes to rescue Obi-Wan, if it isn ´t too late.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Obi-Wan woke to a throbbing pain in his head and with ribs burning. He sat on a durasteel floor leaning against wall. His hands were bound behind his back, wrist raw from how tightly it was bound. He realised he was in a space, as the dim hum of a ship in flight throbbed beneath him like a distant drum. He blinked, trying to focus. The lights were low, flickering slightly and Obi-Wan tried to remain calm as he was trained.
In a distance a shadow moved. Then a voice, raspy and amused. “Finally awake, Jedi pup”.
Obi-Wan turned his head slowly, wincing. A man stood a few feet away, arms crossed, leaning against wall. His face was weathered, scar under his left eye, beard streaked with grey. His eyes sharp, but there was flicker of cruelty.
“You’ve been out a while,” Grohl said with a smirk. “Didn’t think a Jedi would go down that easy”.
Obi-Wan looked at him, his voice dry but steady. “I don’t know who you are, but if you are looking for intel, I can save us both some time. I’ve got nothing worth trading, no info – unless you are curious about Jedi meditation techniques”.
Grohl stared at him. “You think you are funny, so let’s make it clear, you are not here for intel, boy”. “My name is Grohl, and I’m here to do a test with you”.
Obi-Wans expression hardened. “A test”?
Grohl stepped closer, crouching to his level. “Yes, my boy, I always wondered how long it takes to break a Jedi”.
Obi-Wan stared at him, jaw tight. Grohl stood again, voice casual.
“Oh, and don’t rely on someone saving you, I’m taking you to a special place, where no one will find you”.
He turned and walked away, the door hissing shut behind him. Obi-Wan was alone, he tried to concentrate, gather the Force around him, but it didn’t work. He realised Grohl probably gave him some suppressants. It scared him, without force he was truly alone, but he remembered the Jedi teachings, the only thing left he could now cling to.
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In the following days after Obi-Wan´s disappearance, Qui-Gon was relentless. He hardly slept, ate almost nothing and ignored Jedi teaching like how to be calm and detached. Desperation consumed him. He called his every contact he has across the galaxy – diplomats, politicians, informants but also smugglers and even those with questionable loyalties. He promised favors no Jedi should ever offer, he crossed lines he once promised never to approach. But it was useless.
The Jedi intelligence Corps also joined the search, combing through star systems, analysing transmissions, searching with effort. But despite everything they’ve tried, there was no info about Obi-Wan. Qui-Gon and his fellow Jedis did what they could, but Obi-Wan was either beyond help or beyond reach, but Qui-Gon decided he will never stop searching, for Obi-wan. Because for him Obi-Wan wasn’t just a padawan, he was his family, and he knew he left him behind.
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Grohl took Obi-Wan to mining moon called Vharan-6, almost forgotten rock orbiting in the deep Mid rim. It was dusty place, with tunnels leading underground to dig raw crystal stones. There were no people working, just droids that dug into the moon ´s surface day and night. He dragged Obi-Wan from the ship. “C´mon, boy, I wanna show you your new place,” he said with a smirk. With a rough shove, he threw him onto the dusty ground.
“As you can see,” Grohl continued, pacing slowly in front of Obi-Wan, „there are no people here. I used to have slaves, but they are too needy. They must eat, sleep…they even try to escape from time to time.” He glanced toward a line of silent droids standing like a statue. “Droids are more efficient”. He turned back to Obi-Wan with a grin. “But you are different case, I have a special plan for you”.
Obi-Wan looked up from the ground, blood at the corner of his lip. “Droids, no sleep, special treatment, that sound like a dream vacation”.
Grohl ´s smile faded. “You think it’s a joke”? Two guard yanked Obi-Wan to his knees, arms pinned behind his back.
Grohl stepped forward and struck him hard across the face. “I guarantee you, there will be time you start taking this seriously”. Grohl dragged him through the place, they passed gates leading to underground tunnels, and met droids quietly doing the hard work, then they reached the old tavern – a place half sunken into the dust-choked-rock. The sign outside had once been hand painted with pride, but now it was hardly readable, so they just called it - The hollow heart.
Inside, the air was stale with sweat and rust, the lighting was dim, the wall dirty and stained and empty bottles lay scattered in every corner.
The patrons who visited this place were worse: lost souls, mercenaries, bounty hunters and slavers too lazy for ambition. Deals were made in shadows, credits traded hands under the table. Grohl was proud of this place, as the galaxy castoffs come to his door to hide, gamble or to make deal over some dirty business, it all earned him money, more than the mines.
They walked through narrow corridor, rusted metal, the air thick with grime. Grohl opened the door and pushed Obi-Wan inside of the cell. A single cot with thin blanket in the corner. Small old table with a metal bowl with lukewarm soup. Grohl leaned against the doorframe and sneered.
“Dinner and a bed”. “Rest up, Jedi, you’re gonna need it”, he said mockingly.
Then he left, locking the door behind him. Obi-Wan sat in silence for a while. He closed his eyes, reaching out for the Force – still nothing. He exhaled slowly, calm as he was taught. He had been in darker places. Later he searched how to escape, he tried everything the walls, the floor, windows but found no way out of his cell.
He sat down, his ribs still ached and he checked himself probing for anything broken, fortunately just bruises, pain manageable. He ate the food, bland but edible, he lay on the cot, resting, knowing there was no way out, not yet.
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The other day Grohl took Obi-Wan to work in a tavern, he made him to serve men who mocked him, spat on him and slapped trays from his hands. They’d knock chairs down, thrown food on the floor just to watch him bend and clean, then trip him when he tried to stand up.
Obi-Wan was silent, and stood tall, his back straight even he was bruised under his tunic. In his mind he quoted the Jedi code when they mocked him. Once, when a drunk mercenary sneered,
“Where’s you Force now, Jedi”? Obi-Wan replied dryly, “Waiting for you to sober up”.
They beat him for that. But it didn’t break him, he still stood tall, still endured, still believed.
Grohl wasn’t happy, after 5 months and the young man still fought back, so he changed tactic. He started drugging him. Small doses dropped into his food and water. Chemicals that dulled reflexes, clouded his mind and blurred boundaries between dreams and reality. Force was now unreachable and Obi-Wan woke up in cold sweats, disoriented, scared. Grohl would visit him in his cell then. “Told you, no one is coming, Kenobi, you are forgotten, no one cares for you, not your friends and definitely not your master”. He come again and again, day by day, week after week.
And yet Obi-Wan tried – he tried to escape. He overpowered a guard and made it halfway to the abandoned ship, limping bleeding but almost made it.
Grohl caught him personally and dragged him back through the dust, then threw him into the hole, black, cold place barely large enough to curl inside. He left him there for 4 days, no food, no light, no sound. When Grohl finally opened the door, he said coldly “Next time it will be much longer, boy”. This time Obi-Wan didn’t respond.
He also send him to work in mines – Obi-wan job was simple but hard, break the stones and scrub the crystals. He had to wash them with caustic chemical solution, he had torn gloves, rag as a face protection. The fumes seared in his throat and his fingers bled. He had cough blood into his sleeve at night, fever slowly crept in. He stopped citing the code, and when Grohl dragged him out of his cell, Obi-Wan didn’t look at him, didn’t speak nor fight. He begged when Grohl said so, flinched at his own shadow. The cruel man knew he won.
Grohl walked to his room, where holoprojector flickered to life. Sidious – cloaked, still, waiting for news.
“It is done,” Grohl said, his voice firm. “He doesn’t speak, doesn’t resist, he hardly knows who he is, and he’s ill”. “Jinn must find him, or the game will be over”.
A thin smile crept across Sidious lips. “Ok, let the fool Jinn find his failure, let him drown in guilt”.
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It was over a year now, and Qui-Gon changed, his hair was greyer now, eyes sunken from sleepless nights. He never stopped searching for Obi-Wan, even it was over a year now, but his padawan was gone, and so was part of Qui-Gons heart. He still mentor Anakin and even trained with him, but he never officially announced him as his apprentice. How could he? He left Obi-Wan behind, and he felt Anakin deserved a master who would be fully present. He took no missions, not even one. The Council didn’t push him. Not really, because they felt sending him into galaxy could mean they lose him too. Qui-Gon meditated and spent hours in the Temple gardens, not walking – sitting.
He talked to the plants – about Obi-Wan and how much he loved this place. Yoda found him there once. “Waiting you are,” the old Master said. “I failed him”, Qui-Gon whispered, not opening his eyes. Yoda sighted heavily, he sat next to Qui-Gon in silence, there were no word to make Qui-Gon feel better. He also met with Mace more often now, they didn’t talk about Council, mission or prophecy, they shared tea in silence, watched younglings train. Sometimes Mace mentioned how Anakin progressed and Qui-Gon nodded, but mostly they sat in silence.
The fire in Qui-Gon was gone.
It was evening, Qui-Gon room was dim, the tall Jedi Master sat cross-legged on his bed, robe worn hair tied loosely, he was reading ancient poems, a quiet ritual he had adopted after Obi-Wan disappearance. He was calm, still, until the message come. He opened it without thinking.
Moon Vharan 6. Mining colony. One survivor located. Young man, ginger hair, human. Scarred, broken.
When the words sank, Qui-Gon stood fast and the datapad clattered on the floor.
He was halfway down, still in his worn robe, utility belt clipped over it. His hear beating fast, the Force screamed at him – move, and he did, he ran.
Before he made it to hangar, Yoda was already there, as if he felt it too. Qui-Gon barely slowed.
“I have to go”, he said almost desperately. Yoda nodded, he wasn’t there to stop him.
“Take her with you” Yoda raised his hand and pointed at Vokara, who was standing behind him, but Qui-Gon had no time to realise it. “Obi-Wan will need her”.
So, they boarded together, silent, each preparing in their own way. And Qui-Gon suddenly felt it, for a first time in over a year, the fire he thought was gone had ignited again.
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Moon Vhalor 6
The ship broke atmosphere and landed softly on dusty surface. Qui-Gon stood at the edge of the ramp before it even lowered fully, eyed closed, using Force to guide him. He didn´t speak, didn´t need to.
The Force pulled him. Not gently, but almost violently toward the old tavern and from there to Obi-Wans cell. There were no alarms or guards and Grohl was already gone. He and Vokara stopped, on front of rusted door, Qui-Gon tried to push it open - nothing, so he ignited his lightsaber and the door fell on the floor with a thud, they walked inside - darkness and then in the corner, barely more then a shadow at first, a figure curled against the wall.
Clothes torn, too thin, bones where muslce should have been. One arm twisted awkwardly in a sling of filthly cloth. Long matted hair, eyes closed. Qui-Gon knelt, slowly, his heart nearly breaking in his chest.
"Obi-Wan", he breathed.
No reaction. He just laid liply against the dirty wall.
Vokara was moving already with her medical bag.
"Breathing difficulties, shoulder dislocated. He is malnourished severely. Heart is unstable too and force his lungs....". She worked quickly, adjusting breathing mask on his face, wrapping him into warm blanket. "No time for full treatment here," she said. "He wont survive much longer in this place, we have to go now".
Qui-Gon gently lifted Obi-Wan who was too light, he felt the fever radiating from him.
"Hold on Obi-Wan he whispered". I have you, and I wont let you go this time".
Together, they run to the ship.
Notes:
I hope you still like it. And hopefuly so, I will write another chapter as soon as possible.
Chapter 9: Decision
Summary:
Obi wan is back in the Temple, injured and scared, he needs surgeries, and Vokara is doing the best she can to save his life. Qui-Gon knows he must make a decision - Anakin or Obi-Wan. Mace comes with a surprising new. When Obi_wan wakes up, he is terrified, and hides in wardrobe. Qui-Gon is only making everything worst, so Vokara calls mind healer Tahlira Vossin.
Chapter Text
Vokara and Qui-Gon who carried Obi-Wan in his arms made it back to the ship and the ramp sealed shut behind them. Qui-Gon placed Obi-Wan gently on the medical bed and Vokara moved into action, putting on gloves and prepping scans and IV lines. She didn’t say much – she didn’t need to, her eyes always so bright, now flickered with worries.
“His pulse is weak, severe dehydration and malnourishment, he has high fever too”, she told Qui-Gon her voice clinical, focused and fast.
Qui-Gon hovered beside the bed, unsure how to help. He wanted to hold Obi-Wan to make sure he won´t lose him again but couldn’t. He wished he could fight those who did this to him, but they run away long before they even landed – Qui-Gon felt helpless, because all he could do was to watch.
Vokara finally turned to him, her voice firm. “Qui-Gon I need your help”.
He stepped closer immediately. “Anything”.
She handed him medical scissors and a small basin. “Cut of his clothes – carefully”. “Start with the tunic, but don’t pull just cut”.
Qui-Gon´s hand trembled slightly, but he obeyed. Obi-Wan´s worn, dirty tunic parted under the blade revealing bruises, chemical burns and laceration. “You’ll need to clean the worst wounds, use the antiseptic lotion”. Qui-Gon blinked “Are you sure”?
“You said anything, I know you are scared but I need to scan his chest, abdomen, check for broken bones. It won´t help him if you just stare, so let’s keep him alive”.
Qui-Gon nodded and began, breath caught in his throat, eyes wet. Obi-Wan looked so fragile, so still.
“He will need abdominal surgery and not just that”, she told Qui-Gon. “I will inform my team to be ready, when we land”. Qui-Gon blinked fast, his face pale, hands trembling. Vokara placed her hand on his shoulder. “We do all we can, he is strong, that’s why he is still there, still fighting and we will fight too”.
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The ship landed on Temple´s medical platform at full speed. Vokara´s team waiting already and once the ramp opened, the gurney was already moving, Vokara now barked instructions as they run with Obi-wan to a healer´s ward.
“He needs abdominal surgery. I want cultures from every major infected wound. I need proper lungs scan. Prepare the bacta tank, he goes there after surgery. Qui-Gon followed them, but they took Obi-Wan to surgery room where he wasn’t allowed to go, so he stood behind the closed doors. There was nothing he could do now but wait. Hours later Vokara stepped out of the surgery room, removing her gloves slowly. She found Qui-Gon still in the waiting bay, sitting in small armchair, eyes locked on the floor.
“Surgery went well. The damage however was worst then I expected – but we cleaned everything and stopped the bleeding. He will be moved to ICU”.
Qui-Gon looked at her. “How about the bacta……”
“He was afraid, even sedated he trashed when we tried to immerse him”. She sighted. “We will go the traditional way. Slower, but safer for him”.
Before Obi-Wan was moved to ICU two nurses gently cleaned him. They cut his matted hair and shaved his beard, revealing the far-too-young face beneath. One of the nurses told Qui-Gon he can’t stay there, but he didn’t listen, instead found plasteel chair, too small for him and put it next to Obi-Wan´s bed. He refused to leave the room, until Vokara gave up and let him stay.
She later talked to him in her office. “Qui-Gon I’m not going to sugarcoat this”, she said softly. “You deserve the truth. Qui-Gon nodded. “His lungs are scarred beyond healing. We will manage with support, oxygen therapy and breathing exercises, but he will never breath normally again”. She continued, her voice still soft and firm. “Kidneys were at risk, we stabilized them, so we hope they will be functioning, but it’s too early to say”.
“His spine is damaged, likely from compression damage. Some vertebrae healed wrong, he will need physiotherapy and surgical correction. He won´t lose mobility, but he might be in chronic pain”. “And his mind, we can´t tell yet, but he will be disorientated, scared when he wakes up”.
Vokara bite her lip. “He will need you full time, not as a master or a teacher, but as an anchor”. She exhaled and continued. “I know you wanted to train Anakin, but you can’t split yourself, not again. They will both need you full time, but you can only choose one of them”. With that, Vokara send Qui-Gon to meditate or at least to think in quiet place.
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He went to Thousand Fountains, where he was surrounded by trickling waters and soft wind. He sat on the floor, cross-legged reaching for the Force, but this time it gave him no answer – it wasn’t absent but withholding. His thoughts drifted to Anakin, the boy celebrated his 12 birthday a few weeks ago but was already attuned the Force so much. More than many Jedis twice his age. He had family on Tatooine, friends his age – he was a rising star. Qui-Gon was sure Anakin will find his place and eventually a Master who will train him. A Master who will see, what Qui-Gon had seen – bright child, a Chosen one, that was meant for something great.
Obi-wan on the other hand…..
He lay unconscious in the ICU, Vokara kept him sedated, so his body had a chance to rest and heal. But she didn’t know what will happen when Obi-Wan wake up. There were no guarantees. Obi-Wan had no family, no certain place in the Order now. His future was uncertain and more then that, Obi-Wan was alone. Qui-Gon knew who he will chose, he would stay with Obi-Wan, everything else can wait, he will choose loyalty over destiny. He exhaled, feeling it will be difficult path to walk. Suddenly he sensed another presence approach. He turned and saw Mace Windu, who asked him if he can sit with him. He heard about Obi-Wan and knew about the choice Qui-Gon must make.
“Have you decided”? he asked, voice low. “Who will you choose”? Qui-Gon´s gaze remained on the water. “I did, I’m staying with Obi-Wan”.
Mace nodded in understanding. He studied Qui-Gon briefly. “I will take Anakin Skywalker as my padawan learner”, he said and continued before Qui-Gon could answer. “The force showed me how strong Anakin is, he needs Master, he must be trained, I can see he is meant for all of it, and it will be honour to train him”. For the first time in days, Qui-Gon felt his shoulders much lighter. He exhaled softly feeling more relaxed. “Thank you”, he said.
“Don’t thank me, stay with Obi-Wan, do what you must”. Mace looked at Qui-Gon. “I think I will be difficult for both of us, I couldn’t imagine I will ever become a Master again”. They sat together in silence for little longer, force shifting around them – still quiet, but somehow more hopeful.
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Next day Qui-Gon found Anakin, who was training with his peers. He took him aside, then knelt, brining himself eye level with the young boy. “Anakin”, he said gently, “I cannot train you”. The words were spoken softly but still struck like a sudden cold wind. Anakin’s brow furrowed, he knew about Obi-Wan, he understood as a boy his age could, and he truly hoped Obi-Wan will be soon better, but now when Qui-Gon told him he won’t be his Master it still hurt, Qui-Gon smiled at him. “Anakin, I believe in you, more than you know, but I have another path to walk, someone needs me more right now”.
Anakin nodded, and Qui-Gon continued. “You won’t be alone, you will have a Master. Strong. Wise. The force has brought him to you”. He gently squeezed Anakin’s shoulder.
Mace Windu approached them both and the young boy blinked in surprise. “Anakin”, Mace said, “the Council is waiting for us”.
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Council chambers
Anakin stood in the centre of the room with Mace behind him. Mace stepped forward. “I believe it’s a will of force, so I’m asking for Anakin Skywalker to be my padawan learner. I will step out from high Council immediately”. He then turned to Anakin, who seemed speechless, but eyes full of hope. “Anakin Skywalker, will you accept me as your Master”? Anakin’s face lit up “I accept you Master Windu”, he said enthusiastically.
There was a silence, but Yoda gave a small nod. “A strong bond, the Force has woven, it is surprising, but clear it is”. Mace placed his hands on Anakin’s shoulders. They discussed necessary formalities, Anakin hardly listened. He had Master, he was no longer alone.
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Healers ward ICU room
Obi-Wan woke up suddenly, breath catching in his throat. The light above him where too bright, it hurt his eyes. His whole body screamed with pain, especially his lungs and his spine. Breathing was difficult and then he remembered. Voice echoed in his mind – Grohl’s voice.
“You are useless being sick like this, maybe I can sell you, some labs will pay double for Force-sensitive boy”. Panic surged.
“No”, it can’t be”, Obi-Wan whispered hoarsely, but it come out like a sob.
Qui-Gon already stood by his bedside, trying to calm him down, reaching for Obi-Wan hand. But Obi-Wan flinched at the touch as if it burned. He kicked wildly, directly into Qui-Gon´s chest, and because the tall man still held his hand, he bite him.
“Obi-Wan”! Qui-Gon winced, pulling back, surprised by Obi-Wan´s reaction.
The door opened and Vokara, walked in, medical instruments on a tray. “What is happe……” She didn’t finish the sentence. A plasteel chair thrown with the strength of raw fear and adrenaline struck her shoulder. She dropped the tray on the floor and almost fell. Obi-Wan scrambled off the bed, still wrapped in a blanket, IV lines torn from his arms, sweat dripping from his brow. Eyes wild. He saw build in wardrobe in the corner of the room. He ran. Qui-Gon moved to stop him, but hesitate, Obi-Wan was scared, terrified and any touch would feel like capture, like restraint. He stepped back. Obi-Wan yanked the wardrobe open, crawled inside and slammed it shut behind him. The room went still. Vokara pick up medical instruments, rubbing her shoulder. Qui-Gon stood frozen behind the closed door. He could feel Obi-Wan inside, he heard him breathing. He was scared, confused and worst he didn’t trust him. Qui-Gon put his palm on the door. “Obi-Wan, it’s me Qui-Gon, nobody will hurt you, I promise”. There was no answer, just silence.
Vokara was in her office already, her shoulder still hurt, but she tapped her commlink with steady hand. Her voice was low but urgent. “Che to Tahlira Vossin. I need you in the ICU, tonight”.
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It was late afternoon, when Mace and Anakin moved to their new quarters. Anakin was already halfway through unpacking – robes shoved into drawers, datapads and books on the table without much order. Mace in the other room moved with more deliberation, placing items with precision, his few belongings neatly aligned. He knew Anakin was full of energy and unspoken expectations and suddenly a wave of doubts washed over him.
Anakin was a Chosen one, but he was also a child, a twelve-year-old kid in his care. And by now, Mace sighted heavily probably very hungry child. “Anakin”, Mace asked when they met in the kitchen, “are you hungry, do you like spaghetti”?
Anakin smiled at him, “I love spaghetti, my favourite food”. Mace gave small chuckle, nodding. “Well, the kitchen is stocked, we can prepare dinner together”.
The kitchenette was small, but simple and practical and it was more than enough. Mace true to his form followed the recipe like a mission instruction – exact measurements and precise timing. He chopped the vegetable carefully, convinced the food shouldn’t be just tasteful but it also should look good on a plate. Anakin, on the other hand, cooked like it was a race. He was moving fast and chaotic. While Mace wasn’t looking, he added five spoons of powdered E ´lee fire spice, it was seasoning known infamously for its volatility. Anakin liked seasoning, his mom always added some into their meal, and this one smelled nicely, he was happy with his work.
Mace turned back to the pot and tasted a spoonful.
His reaction was immediate and dramatic. He bolted for the sink, gulping water straight from the faucet. Then took a milk from the fridge and drank almost half of the bottle. Anakin looked at him, eyes wide. When Mace calmed down a little, he wiped his face with a kitchen towel. “You could ignite a starship engine with that”!
“I’m sorry, I didn’t know its so spicy”, Anakin apologized. Mace still coughed a bit but nodded at him. “Let’s have dinner at Dex, just for tonight”.
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Qui-Gon sat on the floor in front of the wardrobe, for hours now. He watched the door – stared at it, hoping Obi-Wan will come out soon, his patience fraying slowly. He should be in bacta tank, or in bed, not hiding in wardrobe. He felt helpless and frustration surged through him. “That is enough”, he muttered for himself and opened the wardrobe door carefully. “Obi-Wan”, he whispered, “It’s me, nobody is going to hurt, you, just come out, please”.
He saw Obi-Wan pressed into the back corner, knees drawn to his chest, eyes wide, full of fear. His face pale, streaked with sweat. He didn’t blink he just stared at Qui-Gon who was moving closer. “No, don’t hurt me”, Obi-Wan whispered, voice breaking. “Please, I’m good, I will be good”. Qui-Gon heart clenched, but he stepped inside anyway and reached for the boy´s hand.
“I’m not going to hurt you Obi-Wan”, Qui-Gon said again. “You know who I am, you know me Obi-Wan”.
But Obi-Wan began to sob, soft at first, then sharper and when Qui-Gon grabbed his wrist, he desperately tried to wiggle it free, crying, pleading like a small child locked in some terrible dream. “Please”, he whimpered. “Please not the laboratory, I don’t want tests on me, please no, no”. Qui-Gon still tried to pull him closer, convince him he was safe. Then he heard the sharp voice.
“Let him be”
Tahlira Vossin entered the room like a shadow – calm, firm, certain. She crossed the room quickly, evaluating what was happening even faster. Qui-Gon froze, and he let go of Obi-Wan´s wrist, ashamed and unsure what else to do. Once free Obi-Wan crawled back to the corner, breathing fast. Tahlira showed Qui-Gon to move from the room and he did. She then knelt slowly, so Obi-Wan could see her, “It’s OK, Obi-Wan, nobody will touch you, you are safe”. She continued her voice soft, calm. “I will close the door now, I will not allow anyone to hurt you, my boy, you take as much time as you need”.
She stood up and went to find Qui-Gon, who was waiting outside, leaning against the wall, staring at the floor, shame still radiated from him. He was still clad in his Jedi robes, he didn’t change since they returned to Coruscant, his face pale and his posture tense.
Tahlira stopped on front of him, hands crosse on her chest.
“You can’t grab him like this, he’s terrified, even if it’s you”, she said flatly. “You also need to change the clothes too, you look like you are going to the mission soon, no wonder he doesn’t trust you”.
Vokara appeared behind him. “Tahlira is right”, she said and handed Qui-Gon neatly folded clothes. “Caregiver attire, loose tunic, soft fabric”. She gave him a sharp look, “Before you put it on, take a shower, you smell like a swamp”.
Qui-Gon blinked fast, opened his mouth and closed them. They were right, he truly didn’t know what to do with Obi-Wan, and he needed to listen Vokara and Tahlira especially, if he wanted to help him.
He took a long shower, letting the water to ease his sore shoulders, he carefully trimmed his beard and finally changed into his caregiver clothes. When he emerged from the bathroom, the ICU room looked different.
The harsh lights were dimmed, soft music played – gentle, no words and a mat lay on the floor opposite the wardrobe. Tahlira brought tray with simple food and tea.
“Don’t rush him, you must be patient, eat from some plate here on the floor, encourage him to eat with you”.
Qui-Gon nodded, Tahlira continued. “Obi-Wan isn’t gone, but is too scared right now, you must show him you are staying”. She passed him a datapad, “read to him, talk to him, be patient and he will listen, he will learn how to trust you again”.
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The dinner at Dex was delicious, Mace and Anakin were back at their quarters and stood on the balcony, the evening breeze cool against their skin. “I’m sorry about the spice Master Windu”, Anakin apologized again. Mace chuckled, “Don’t worry Anakin, we have a time to learn together, and we will”.
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Qui-Gon sat crossed legged outside the wardrobe, his voice steady and low as he read. Obi-Wan sat inside, still pressed in the corner, but more relaxed, he listened, first time after a long time he felt safe.
Chapter 10: Shadows of healing
Summary:
Obi-Wan is hiding in a wardrobe, ill but he refuse to come out. Vokara and Tahlira argues what the next step should be. Qui-Gon pleads Obi-Wan to come out, so they can help him. Obi-Wan decides to trust his Master. Meanwile Mace and Anakin are trying really hard as Master and padawan.
Palplatine is happy with how his plan worked, and he is already moving ahead to get closer to Anakin.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Four days past by and Obi-Wan still sat in the wardrobe, knees drawn tightly to his chest, his breath shallow and wet, but as Tahlira promised, nobody tried to drag him out.
Qui-Gon now sat crossed – legged on the mat close to the wardrobe, reading to him, from an old datapad, his voice low and soft. It was a story Obi-Wan loved when he was still an initiate. There was also a tray of food several times a day, but Obi-Wan didn’t touch the food – couldn’t. His body ached, breathing was difficult, and his stomach hurt.
Tahlira gave him privacy and when he needed to use the fresher the room emptied without a word. Obi-Wan then carefully crawled out of the wardrobe. His legs trembled with effort, and when he walked it felt like he was moving through thick water, so he was leaning against the wall heavily. Heat clung to him, but not the kind from outside, it burned from within – he was feverish and weak. When he used the fresher and tried to relieve himself, red stained the water – he knew the kidney infection returned, and it was bad. But he didn’t call for help, he just braced himself against the wall, breathing hard, forehead pressed to a cool tile.
But Vokara knew, she registered blood in the waste and heard his ragged breathing – she could no longer ignore it.
For Tahlira the mind was important, but waiting for Obi-Wan until he decided to come out of the wardrobe was dangerous. Qui-Gon felt torn between them and watched with worries, he understood Tahlira´s method – the gentle, non-invasive approach, but how could he just sit outside and wait when Obi-Wan was in so much pain.
“He won’t come out will he”? Qui-Gon asked, eyes fixed on the closed doors.
“He is afraid”, Tahlira said quietly.
“He will die, if we won’t act”, Vokara replied, holding dose of sedatives. “The infection is spreading fast, we need to get him out and give him antibiotics”.
“I’m not arguing that” Tahlira said, stepping closer to the wardrobe as if protecting Obi-Wan even from Vokara. “But if you sedate him, without his consent or force him out, you will lose his trust, maybe forever”.
Vokara gave her a sharp look. “If I don’t act now, there won’t be a forever”!
Qui-Gon looked between them, his heart aching, then he knelt on front of the wardrobe and spoke gently, but firmly. “Obi-Wan. Listen to me, you are very ill, and we want to help you, nobody is going to force you out, but you need to trust us, and come out, please.”
The wardrobe doors were closed, but behind, Obi-Wan listened. Tahlira, Vokara and Qui-Gon were talking, standing in the middle of the room, he heard them, the words blurred at the edges, but the meaning was clear, he needed medical attention and Qui-Gon pleaded him. He also knew they weren’t going to drag him out, they wanted to him to have a control, and he wanted help, at least from the pain.
Slowly, he shifted the blanket off his shoulders, and he moved with all the strength he had left, to the wardrobe door and pushed them open. He tried to stand, but his legs shaken violently beneath him. Qui-Gon was there in an instant, wanting to hold Obi-Wan, but unsure how he will react. Obi-Wan´s hand trembled as he reached out, fingers brushing against Qui-Gon´s sleeve. The tall man caught his hand gently, then slid his arms beneath Obi-Wan, lifting him carefully. Obi-Wan stiffened at first, but then he leaned into the warm, burying his face into Qui-Gon´s shoulder.
“I’ve got you”, Qui-Gon murmured softly into his hair and carried him to the medbed. But Obi-Wan refused to let go of him, so he settled on the bed, cradling him carefully in his lap.
Vokara didn’t question it. She simply nodded. Then looked at Obi-Wan. “Listen Obi-Wan”, she said softly “I need your blood sample to check for the chest and kidneys infection, and I will give you breathing mask. It’s only oxygen, no sedation”.
Obi-Wan nodded, his grip on Qui-Gon´s tunic tightened, as she fitted the mask over his face. The blood draw was quick and Vokara analysed the results fast on her portable scanner, brow tightened with focus. She then sent med droid for specific antibiotics and when the droid returned, she administered them quickly to Obi-Wans arm, then another dose with painkillers and fever reducers.
“You have to stay like this for a while Obi-Wan, no wardrobe yet”. Obi-Wan shifted, his forehead resting against his Master´s chest, eyes already closing. Qui-Gon hold him as close as he dared, grateful for the contact and even more for the trust. Obi-Wan sighted, after a long time he felt safe.
When Obi-Wan was asleep, Tahlira put soft mat and more cushions into the wardrobe, explaining Qui-Gon Obi-Wan might still choose to sleep there overnight, but it was no longer a hiding place, but a space that belonged to him.
When Obi-Wan woke up, he returned to it, but he asked Qui-Gon to stay close and he didn’t hesitate. He simply put his mat closer, then took a datapad and started reading.
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Far above their soft and safe place, in a chamber wrapped in shadows and silence, Palpatine stood by the window, watching Coruscant´s traffic. Behind him, the holo flickered to life, casting a faint blue glow across the polished floor.
A hooded figure bowed. The voice was neutral, but edged with confidence, knowing the dark lord will like the news. “Its confirmed, Jinn resides in a wardrobe with Kenobi”.
For a moment, Palpatine said nothing. His expression composed, unreadable, but his eyes flickered with satisfaction and amusement. His plan worked well. He nearly clasped his hands in delight, like a child unwrapping a long-awaited present.
But he controlled himself and folded his hands behind his back instead. “So, the old fossil is occupied”.
The contact nodded. “Utterly, Kenobi is dependent, fragile and clinging to him”.
“Perfect, let Jinn play the caregiver, let him rot in that wardrobe, reading bedtimes stories”.
His gaze sharpened again. “Master Windu accepted Skywalker as his padawan, it that so”?
“Yes, that’s true”, the hooded figure said.
“Then I know all I need”, Palpatine said his voice low, switching off the holoprojector. Once alone again, he grinned. Jinn were out of his way and Kenobi was broken enough to keep him there. He returned to the window, next week he will ask for 5 junior padawans for Senate observation, Skywalker will be among them, Windu won’t be against it, Palpatine knew this for sure.
“My path to young Skywalker is finally clear”. He whispered to himself, content.
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The swimming pool water sparkled, casting ripples of light across the walls. Anakin stood at the edge in his swimming trunks, arms folded over his chest, he improved in swimming but struggled with diving.
Mace already stood in the pool waist deep. “Anakin focus on it, I already showed you, you just need to keep your posture”.
“It is easy to say”, Anakin murmured, scrunching his nose, “but harder to follow”.
Mace raised an eyebrow. “You don’t want to land like a sandbag every time do you”?
Anakin bite his lip, remembering how his friends could dive easily. Mace was right, his way of diving was far away from their elegant style.
“Fine, this time I will do it correctly”.
Anakin squared his shoulders, focused, leaned forward and launched himself off the edge. The splash was impressive – a flailing tangle of arms and knees that somehow rotated midair.
Beside the water, he felt he hit something hard.
“Ow”. Mace´s voice echoed slightly. Anakin resurfaced and gasped. “He stared at his Master, who held his nose, and was murmuring words Anakin didn’t understand”.
“It wasn’t correct, right”? Anakin asked quietly. From behind his hand – now pinching his nose, Mace gave him a long deliberate look.
“Force, no Anakin”, Mace said dryly. “Did I kick you….” Anakin didn’t finish the sentence.
“Yes, you did, and you are lucky I’m not the grudge-holding type”.
Anakin tried to look horrified, but it only lasted two seconds before he snorted. “I’m sorry Master Windu, I didn’t mean to kick you, really”. He smiled wildly, “I can make dinner tonight”. Mace gave him a sidelong look. Anakin was intense, sometimes frustrating, too sharp for his own good and now when he tried his best to learn how to dive, Mace realised once again he was still a boy doing the best he could.
“Fine Anakin we have a deal, you are making dinner tonight and we will try again next week”. Anakin gave him huge smile. “Yes Master, I will do better next time, and I will avoid your nose”.
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Later both Anakin and Mace were summoned to the Council chambers.
Anakin´s limbs were still pleasantly sore from the swimming as he followed his master inside the chambers. The air there was different, stilled, Anakin was beside Mace who stood in the middle of the room with his usual calmness. It was Master Yoda who spoke first. “Opportunity, we have for you, young Skywalker. Learn from the Senate, you will”.
Master Depa Billaba nodded and continued. “Five padawans from junior ranks have been selected to observe proceedings at the Galactic Senate – twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays. For next five weeks.
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When they were released, Anakin asked confused, “The Senate”? Mace looked at down at him. “It is part of the training Ani, Council believes its important for padawans to understand the political mechanisms of the Republic. Being Jedi isn’t only about the training and combat.” He sighted then continued. “You will be expected to observe, take notes and make a small project on how Jedis and Senators should interact”.
Anakin made a face. “Sounds boring”.
“Well, it can be,” Mace said evenly. “But you need to understand it, learn how it works, it will be important for future missions”. He placed hand on his shoulder “I’m sure you will learn fast”.
Anakin only nodded, determined to learn and make his Master proud of him.
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The medbay lights were low, Obi-Wan sat on the exam table, tunic loose at the right shoulder. For a week he complained about the pain at this area, so Vokara decided to run a scan. Obi-Wan was still pale, but his eyes were clearer now – more alert. The infection in his kidneys and chest was cured, and he felt better if a little weak.
Vokara finished, her expression unreadable, but she quickly explained what she discovered.
“You will need surgery”, she said gently. “The joint isn’t healing correctly, and if we wont operated now, it can cause more pain and movements issues in the future”.
Obi-Wan´s eyes flickered on place where Qui-Gon stood, and he smiled at him encouragingly. “Don’t worry Obi-Wan, you are strong, and I will be there when you wake up”.
Obi-Wan believed him.
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3 days later.
The surgery was successful, Obi-Wan lay still in his recovery sleep, his face relaxed, his breath slow but even. Qui-Gon sat in a small plasteel chair, waiting for him to wake up. He had slipped into meditation – not deep, only to relax and stay centered.
But the Force didn’t let him rest. It pulled.Suddenly, the warmth was gone. The air turned cold.
He stood in some nameless planet, cities choked in silence, darkness palpable.
And then he found himself in a desert and in a distance a figure emerged.
Obi-Wan – older, eyes focused. He stood protectively in front of a child, no more then 10. The young boy reached his hand to him and Obi-Wan reached back. But Obi-Wan began to fade, not violently, not because he was struck down, it was more like the world itself was erasing him. The child reached for his hand again, but this time his little hand passed through an empty space.
Both vanished.
Qui-Gon was on a busy street this time, full of people, but their eyes hollow – no anger, no fear – nothing.
And then – he spotted the young boy from the desert, his eyes grey and empty. He looked straight to Qui-Gon and spoke with a voice too old for his age.
“There is no hope left”.
Everything began to crumble. The stars themselves dimmed, not in explosion, but in surrender.
Qui-Gon eyes snapped open. He was drenched in a cold sweat, breathing heavily. In panic he reached for Obi-Wan´s hand, but young man was still asleep, and didn’t even stir.
And Qui-Gon understood. Not everything, but the truth beneath it.
If Obi-Wan will not survive, if he will not be there in the future, something vital would be lost. Galaxy will become dark, hopeless place.
He wiped the sweat from his brow and took Obi-Wan´s hand into his.
“I swear my boy, I will protect you, no matter what it cost”.
Notes:
Another chapter is finished, I hope you still like it.
Chapter 11: Even now, I stay
Summary:
Anakin is to observe at the Senate, he is too excited and surprises his Master Mace more than once that day. He also cannot keep his mind to himself, but Mace understands and tries to help him - to teach him better. Palpatine is content now, he knows he has a enough time to connect with young Skywalker. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan have a hard time, Obi-Wan is angry and tells Qui-Gon something he cannot take back. Afraid his Master left him, he goes to search for him and his life is in danger.
Notes:
I really hope you still like it. There is not so much action right now, but I promise there will be. Im just trying to focus on how recovery can be hard and also for Anakin and Mace as Master and Padawan relationship.
Chapter Text
It was early morning – too early – but Anakin was already awake. He couldn’t sleep, couldn’t wait. Today, him and 4 other padawans will observe at senate. It will be his first mission, even if small and close to the Temple. He wanted to do it well and make Master Windu proud of him, but now, he stood in the kitchen, his short padawan braid swinging from side to side, as he mixed the dough for pancakes.
Soon, several golden pancakes landed neatly on the table – syrup and fruit tea made it look like a breakfast feast. Anikin was admiring his work, when he heard the door swished open and Master Windu appeared in the living area still wrapped in his night robe, planning to go straight to morning meditation. But the sweet, buttery smell hit his nose, and his plan wavered.
“Anakin, what….”? He asked surprised, when he come to the kitchen.
“I wanna start well today,” Anakin explained, “and my mom always told me, it is important to start with a good breakfast”.
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After breakfast – which Mace called delicious, they made their way to Senate building. There they met with the other junior Padawans – Brian, Lela, Kay and Sam, with their Masters. They all gathered in a dimmed observation chamber, higher up and more private. It was perfect place to watch, listen and learn.
Anakin knew what to do, it was clear and simple – observe carefully, take notes and later make project – how the Jedis and Senate could work together more effectively, and help those in need across the galaxy.
Today session focused on how to support struggling colonies in the cold planet Fron Vallis in the Mid Rim. The discussion centered on how to help the people on this distant planet to build sustainable villages and ensure that they could live in peace and safety, despite the freezing conditions and limited resources.
From their quiet place above the Senate floor, the young Padawans leaned in, minds focused, listening closely to how politicians spoke and how two members from the high Council – Shaak Ti and Even Piell, discussed with them.
They were calm and composed. To them it was important to support people on Fron Vallis strongly at the very beginning – education, infrastructure and local leadership.
“Build a foundation,” Shaak Ti said, “and the rest will follow”.
But many senators looked unconvinced. Their voice rose, full of hesitation and excuses: limited budget, slow supply chains and someone also reminded others, that the people this frozen planet have nothing to pay back with. The conversation dragged on in circles.
Anakin shifted in his seat, reminding himself to stay calm, but he wasn’t. On Tatooine, almost nobody wanted to help them, nobody cared, he couldn’t just sit there and listen. He clenched his jaw and kept listening, fingers tapping restlessly on his datapad as the Senators still argued.
From across the chamber, Chancelor Palpatine watched Anakin with quiet interest. He noted how the boy fidgeted while other Padawans sat with perfect Jedi posture, as they were trained to. He felt how Anakin wanted to be involved and not just listen.
Palpatine acted, looking at the chambers where Padawans observed.
“You keep arguing, wasting time and helping nobody,” he said firmly, and his gaze drifted to Anakin, like he was challenging him, “I believe those young ones, unclouded with politics, will have better ideas than adult senators”.
For Anakin it was like and approval, he stood before he could stop himself.
“Excuse me”, his voice echoed in the chamber, “but if you wait these people will freeze.” “They should be given heat generators, durable shelters and maybe older farming modules that work in frozen soil. The Jedis could organize mission to protect the supply lines”. He continued, heart pounding in his chest, “Let the locals built their villages in their way, with help, not control”.
The chamber felt silent, dozens of eyes turned toward the observation balcony. Mace Windu also turned sharply, his expression mixed of surprise and disbelieve. But for a heartbeat nobody spoke.
Then Palpatine said triumphantly “This young Padawan is right, and more sensible, than many of you”. Quiet agreements followed spreading across the chambers like warmth.
Anakin´s cheeks flushed bright red, as he suddenly realised what he had done – he stood up, spoken out and broke the rules. He searched for his Master, but Mace´s face was unreadable, calm, still and it felt heavier than any angry look.
And from below, Palpatine smiled.
After the observation Anakin couldn’t wait and walk straight up to Mace, nervous, shoulders slumped, wishing to be invisible.
“I made mistake Master, I shouldn’t intervene”, his eyes found Mace´s, “I’m sorry”.
Mace let out a long, slow sight. He looked at Anakin for a moment, he wasn’t angry, he already knew his Padawan was a hot head.
“You jumped into conclusion,” he said carefully, his voice firm, but not unkind, “despite the fact you should just observe and keep ideas for your project, that much is true”.
Anakin shoulder sagged even more – but then Mace continued.
“But….you weren’t wrong”.
Mace folded his arms, his tone lighter as he went on, “the Order teaches patience for reason, and I would like you to control your fire next time”, when we get back home, we will have a meditation, so you learn how to centre yourself”.
Anakin nodded slowly, feeling how gently Mace was teaching him, he was wise and strong, and Anakin wanted to be better next time.
Palpatine approached them, his steps measured and deliberate.
“Well spoken young Skywalker,” he said with a warm smile. “A voice of action in a room full of hesitation, it was refreshing”.
Anakin smiled, “Thank you, Chancellor Palpatine”, he said politely.
When Anakin and Mace left, he smiled to himself. He had five weeks, and he would make sure to speak with Anakin again – more often and more privately.
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Healers ward
Obi-Wan was doing better – at least physically, his shoulder was healing well, and Vokara managed to control his breathing issues. He was also undergoing light physiotherapy.
Tahlira was there as much as he needed her, guiding him gently through all the struggles, and she was doing more than that, she was navigating Qui-Gon too.
Right now, they both noticed small gaps in Obi-Wan´s memory, and the growing impatience in him.
When Vokara took Obi-Wan to a control scan, Qui-Gon and Tahlira sat together on a quiet balcony.
“He is improving, that ´s for sure”, she said calmly, “but those memory gaps are because his mind is still protecting him from the worst of the trauma”. She continued “I know he was snapping at you lately, and you should know, it’s not out of malice, but right now, he doesn’t know any better”.
She glanced at Qui-Gon. “You will need to set boundaries with him. Firm, but compassionate ones, so he will start to feel safe again”.
Qui-Gon nodded, but he wasn’t sure if he can set the boundaries with Obi-Wan after everything that happened to him.
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It was only two hours after lunch when Obi-Wan asked if he had eaten, or if he’d taken his medicine.
Qui-Gon didn’t answer right away, he gave him a calm steady look, then he nodded, “yes Obi-Wan, you already had your lunch and your medicine”.
Obi-Wan looked at him too, clearly frustrated with himself, “I think I remember I had lunch, but its all muddled”.
He winced, “I hate when I can’t remember”.
Qui-Gon put his hand on Obi-Wan’s shoulder, “I know, but I’m here to remind you, you’re not alone in this”.
But Obi-Wan was frustrated and even angry. He hated the way he forgot obvious things, how his hands trembled when he tried to hold a cup or the whistling sound of his breathing, when he was tired or stressed. It reminded him constantly of what Grohl did to him and what he took away from him.
He longed for the closeness of Qui-Gon, he loved his steady presence, that grounding feeling of safety only his Master could offer to him.
But there was a shame too, he felt like a burden, that held his Master back from being a Jedi, from missions – from what he used to be.
He wanted to ask for comfort, but he didn’t know how to. He wanted to be independent but was limited by his own body.
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So, he started testing him instead.
No consciously, not at first, but deep inside he hoped if he will be bad enough or too difficult – then Qui-Gon would walk away. He knew he would be devastated, but if he walks away because he was bad, it will be easier to accept, rather than if he abandons him later, because he realises the galaxy needs him more.
It scared him deeply, he didn’t want to be abandoned, he needed Qui-Gon, but he didn’t know how to tell him or how to be better.
At first, it was small things. Leaving messes everywhere. Towels on bathroom floor, cups on nightstand.
Then come the wit – sharp, biting comments dressed as a joke. Not enough to be outright cruel, but they still stung and Obi-Wan tested if Qui-Gon ´s patience with him had limits.
But Qui-Gon still stayed.
So, Obi-Wan pushed it harder.
During next physio session, when Qui-Gon reached to steady him, Obi-Wan murmured without looking at him, “Careful, Qui-Gon, you are holding me so gently, I almost believe you care for me”.
He delivered it with a smile, but his words hung in the air heavily. Qui-Gon didn’t flinched, but something in his eyes shifted, “I always cared for you Obi-Wan”, he said quietly.
Obi-Wan snorted and refused to engage any further, he simply leaned into Qui-Gon, limp and unresponsive. When Qui-Gon tried to help him to lift his hand, he was like a ragdoll.
Tahlira watched from the corner and recognized Obi-Wan´s tactic. He was testing Qui-Gon, waiting for reaction. Qui-Gon simply held him in silence, almost as he would be afraid to ask Obi-Wan to cooperate. He didn’t set boundaries but let Obi-Wan go away with it.
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Later that evening, Tahlira found Qui-Gon alone, standing by the window, watching Coruscant traffic, Obi-Wan was asleep.
“You need to let go of the guilt, or you never set up the healthy boundaries”, and because Qui-Gon didn’t respond, she continued. “He’s not doing this to punish you, he’s lost and right now, you are his only constant world, and that means you need to tell him when it’s enough, he needs to have responsibilities too, otherwise he will spiral into depression”.
Qui-Gon sighted heavily and just stared out of the window like there would be an answer to all his problems.
“I know, but it’s hard to set the boundaries, he went through so much and when he flinches or cries at night…..I want to be comfort to him”.
Tahlira stepped closer to him, “And that’s why the boundaries matter, he needs to feel you strong enough to hold the line, even when he can’t”.
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The following day – lunch time
A kind nurse Maya brough Obi-Wan his lunch – green broth and some fruit. Obi-Wan never liked the broth but never complained loud about it.
Now he stared at the bowl and dove his spoon into it, stirring it at pointless circles, “This isn’t food, nobody gets better eating swamp water”, he said drily.
Then something in his eyes flickered – the fridge. He couldn’t remember what Qui-Gon had for dinner last night, but it was surely better than the green swamp.
Without a word, he pushed back his chair and headed to the kitchen, when he pulled the door open, he saw chicken and fried potatoes, he smiled. “Finally, something that looks like a food”.
Qui-Gon watched him silently till now, “You’re not eating that”, he said firmly and got up.
Obi-Wan grimaced at him, “Why not, you eat it all the time, you can have the swamp, you call food and try to survive on it”.
Qui-Gon come closer his voice firm, clear, “It is too heavy for your stomach, you will be sick”.
“I’m sick”, Obi-Wan said sharply, “by eating swamp three times a day”. He then put the plate on the table and grabbed a spoon, eyes never leaving Qui-Gon.
He didn’t even bother to reheat it, cold will do just as fine.
“Obi-Wan I’m warning you”, Qui-Gon said his voice low.
Obi-Wan didn’t listen, he took a spoonful of the cold food and smiled – but before he could bring it to his mouth his hand froze mid-air. Not by his choice.
“Let go”, Obi-Wan snapped at Qui-Gon, struggling, but his strength in the Force was still too weak and he couldn’t break the hold. “Let go of me”, he repeated angrily, you don’t decide what I eat”.
“I do, when you’re hurting yourself”, Qui-Gon answered softly.
Obi-Wan twisted in place, he had enough, the fact he couldn’t use the force the way he wanted, he couldn’t even control what he had for lunch, something broke in him.
“You think this food will hurt me”? He asked voice sharp, “That swamp you call lunch is poison, no wonder Tahl´s died, you probably made her to eat this as well”.
The silence followed immediately – Obi-Wan realised what he just said, and he was shocked by his own words.
Qui-Gon didn’t say a word either, but hurt was written all over his face, he released Obi-Wan´s hands – suddenly he wasn’t Master or caregiver but a man who remember the lost of his best friend and how much it hurt. He turned away and walked out of the room.
He needed time alone.
Obi-Wan stood still, no longer interested in the cold food. He had done it – driven Qui-Gon away. His breathing quickened, sharp and shallow and his chest ached, not from the previous injury, it was something deeper.
He hadn’t meant to say it, but it was out, and he couldn’t take it back. Even he tested Qui-Gon daily, he never truly believed Qui-Gon would leave him. Until now.
Qui-Gon found Tahlira – he needed to talk to her; he needed her guidance. He told her what happened and how cruelly Obi-Wan reminded him of Tahl, and how he walked away from him.
Tahlira listened carefully.
“First, don’t worry about you left, you didn’t allow him to provoke you further, you didn’t raise your voice, you didn’t lash out, this is what he expected”.
“He’s hurting and so are you, I will talk to him and together we set up boundaries and some reasonable schedule. He will be able to choose what he wants to do during the day, and we will give him choice about the food too”.
Tahlira smiled at Qui-Gon “He’s not trying to be mean, he wants to be the strong, independent Padawan he once was, and more he wants the proof that you will be still there, even when he’s ugly and hurting”.
Qui-Gon smiled at Tahlira faintly, “I don’t know, what would I do without you”.
Tahlira smirked at him, “You´d be standing in the kitchen still fighting with Obi-Wan over the chicken leg”.
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Qui-Gon had been gone less than thirty minutes, but to Obi-Wan it felt like hours or days.
He sat on his bed in the now quiet room, food on the table untouched the silence louder, than any reprimand. He tried to retrace what had happened, how it had escalated so badly – but the memory was slippery, fractured. He remembered he said something about Tahl, he could see the hurt in Qui-Gon´s eyes.
He left him.
The thought landed like a hammer to the chest. He needed to find Qui-Gon and ask him to stay with him.
He stood suddenly, too fast, head spinning. He couldn’t just sit in his room and wait.
He walked to the door and left his room, moving with shaking urgency. The nurses seen him taking short walks by his own before – so they barely glanced at him. Obi-Wan found supply elevator – it will take him to Qui-Gon! He walked in and pressed the first button. The elevator moved quickly, too quickly and before he knew it, he was in hospital storage – cold place filled with quiet echoes and the hum of machinery.
He stepped out, and realised he didn’t know where he was.
Where is Qui-Gon? Where am I? Panic surged.
His heart thudded in his chest – too fast and too loud. He heard a noise, a metal clanging in a distance. Someone shouted – not at him but his breath hitched. The air felt heavy in his lungs.
He heard the laughter – Grohl.
But he couldn't find him there, could he? Obi-Wan stumbled back, pressing himself to the wall. “He found me, he’s there, I have to hide”.
Obi-Wan looked around wildly, eyes darting towards pile of boxes, so he slid behind them, hands trembling, heart racing.
He pressed his knees under his chin, he didn’t know where he was or where Qui-Gon was, but somehow, he managed to convince himself Grohl wasn’t there. It didn’t make his situation any easier.
Obi-Wan realised suddenly – he was lost.
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Tahlira and Qui-Gon returned less than ten minutes later.
The room was quiet, too quiet – Obi-Wan wasn’t in fresher, nor in the kitchen.
He was gone.
Chapter 12: Found
Summary:
Qui-Gon, Tahlira and Vokara are searching for Obi-Wan who walked too far away and is alone, confused and ill. Situation quickly escalates and Obi-Wan gets himself in troubles. It is clear he will need boundraries and schedule. Tahlira comes with surprising offer - and Mace and Anakin come for visit. Palpatine is furious nothing goes as he expected - he needs new plan.
Notes:
New chapter after a week. In two or three following chapters things will change.....and I hope you will enjoy the adventure.
Chapter Text
Qui-Gon and Tahlira informed Vokara, who as an Obi-Wan´s main healer was right to know.
“We need to find him as soon as possible, he probably didn’t get far, but he cannot stay alone out there”, Vokara said her voice urgent. She was already searching the camera system, that was installed in hospital halls.
“He will need his medicine soon, and the stress will be enormous, he can collapse without help”.
“There”, Vokara called triumphally after a short searching, “he took the supply elevator, let’s go”.
The trio rushed to the elevator, they didn’t speak, but they all knew Obi-Wan was in the worst place he could be – storage hall – cold, isolated and what was worst it led outside the Temple.
Obi-Wan was still hiding behind the pile of boxes, his body curled inward, as if he could make himself smaller – invisible, but he knew he cannot stay there, he needed to find his Master.
His stomach ached – sharp, twisting pain – result of a skipped meal. He couldn’t remember if he had eaten. There was a food – chicken, broth – why did his stomach hurt too badly then?
His chest hurt too, when he inhaled, and even more when he exhaled, the sound that came out was wet, whistling, Obi-Wan felt like he was trying to breath through water. He pressed one hand on his stomach and second on his ribs, but it did nothing to help.
Again, he tried to reassure himself Grohl wasn’t there, he was just lost, so he must find his way back, that’s all.
He pulled himself slowly form behind the boxes, his legs trembling with effort and he had to catch the edge of a box to steady himself, but he kept moving. He walked through the storage hall, the durasteel floor was warm beneath his feet, he was limping now, but it didn’t stop him. He made it to the end and the storage hatch opened with a hiss. Light spilled across his face, too bright and Obi-Wan squinted as the world changed around him but continued walking until he made it to Crystal Park a beautiful part of upper Coruscant.
Green trees sculpted in lines, flowerbeds in neat squares, terraced restaurants, hotels and sleek storefronts. Everything was elegant, intentional and expensive.
Jedis hardly visited this place, let alone barefoot, feverish and half delirious.
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Tahlira, Qui-Gon and Vokara made it to the storage looking around, calling Obi-Wan – reassuring him, they are here to help him – but it was clear he wasn’t there. As they feared Obi-Wan walked outside.
They run – the only place Obi-Wan probably went was Crystal Park.
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Obi-Wan past by silk-clad tourists and offworld visitors. Some glanced his way – a barefoot boy, drenched in sweat, blue hospital robes – but nobody stopped, nor cared.
Obi-Wan´s chest tightened, his breath come faster now, too shallow. His head swam, he didn’t know how he get there or how to find his way back to the Temple. He sat down on the edge of a low stone planter, legs trembling, heart pounding behind his ribs. He needed the Force.
He tried to reach for it. Tried to centre himself, to gather it as he had been taught, but it didn’t come.
He was too stressed and the pain he was in drowned everything. His hands shook and he felt feverish. Drink, he needed some water, otherwise he will collapse. That though come clear and steady more than anything else. His vision was blurred, but he saw a storefront, he blinked hard and focused, just enough to see a hovering holo-sign flickering over sleek glass – a high-end beverage shop, lit in light blues. It was the kind that sold imported spring water – in fancy, tall bottles.
He didn’t think, he just stood. Slowly, painfully, but determined to find something to drink.
He made it to the store – it gleamed. Floor tiles polished like glass; bottles with water arranged on lit display panels like jewellery. The air there was cool, filtered and smelled like mint and citrus.
Obi-Wan barely noticed any of it.
He moved slowly awkwardly to grab one of the water bottles. He didn’t think how he appeared to others. He was too out of it. One woman stepped back as he passed, wincing.
But he didn’t care, he just unscrewed the cap with trembling hands and drank. Not much, just enough to cool his dry mouth and ease the pain in his throat.
And then!
“Hey, what do you think you’re doing boy”!
Voice too sharp, too loud.
A man in a uniform stepped toward him. Store security, not trained to ask questions, only to remove problems.
Obi-Wan tried to explain, but no words come out, then a hand grabbed his arm and pulled him away from the regal with bottles. The customers looked at him, not kindly.
“Is he drugged”? someone asked, “He looks unstable”, said other.
Another uniformed man appeared, and they now pulled Obi-Wan around the side corridor, into a narrow back room behind the locked door. Dim light, no windows and single chair.
Obi-Wan panicked – Grohl, he found him, but he was too paralysed with fear and fever to fight back. One of the security guards pushed him into a chair and bind his wrists behind his back. Obi-Wan could barely sit upright.
“Now you wait here boy, authorities will deal with you”, the security guard muttered.
The door shut, and the lock clicked. He was alone again.
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Qui-Gon and Vokara stood in Crystal Park scanning the polish edges, while Tahlira searched in other direction. Qui-Gon gathered the Force and felt Obi-Wan presence not so far away, but he was weak, fraying.
Somewhere nearby, a group of tourists was murmuring over drinks, voice concerned.
“He looked drunk or worst, security took him”.
Qui-Gon moved, Vokara followed without a word. Force led them into a small store, the security guards asked them what they are doing there, but Qui-Gon ignored them.
He walked down a corridor, and Force opened the locked door.
Inside he saw Obi-Wan, slumped in a chair, wrists bind behind his back, head bowed.
Qui-Gon moved forward, kneeling beside the chair, he unclasped the binds and steadied Obi-Wan gently. Vokara checked Obi-Wan quickly and told Qui-Gon he’s going to be fine, but they must return to the healer’s ward.
“You can’t take him”, one of the guards said firmly, “authorities are on their way”.
“He’s mine”, Qui-Gon said without further explanation, his voice flat. He scooped Obi-Wan into his arms and walked out, “let’s go home, young one”, he whispered into his hair.
Obi-Wan let himself rest against the familiar weight of Qui-Gon chest; cheek pressed to the soft caregiver tunic. The steady rhythm of his Master heartbeat grounded him immediately.
He was no longer alone.
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Back in the healer´s ward, the air was cool and still. Obi-Wan laid motionless on bed, sweat-damp hair clinging to his temple, IV lined fed fluids into his veins. Vokara stood beside him, scanning his vitals with calm practised hands. She didn’t speak until she finished.
“Blood pressures low, fever holding at 39,3. Breathing shallow but steady, nothing we can’t manage”. She smiled at Qui-Gon, “He’s going to be alright, he just needs to rest”.
Qui-Gon only nodded.
Later in the afternoon Tahlira stepped in.
“Obi-Wan will be shaken”, she told Qui-Gon, “but we need to set up boundaries and schedule, so he has something he can easily follow”.
“Ok”, Qui-Gon said quietly, “then we give him that.
The following day, Obi-Wan woke up, eyelids heavy, fever reduced, and he felt much better.
“You’re awake”, Qui-Gon smiled at him, Obi-Wan didn’t speak only nodded once.
Tahlira stood nearby.
“Obi-Wan”, she said kindly, “we need to put some schedule together, so you will have something to follow. We also let you to chose what you want for lunch and dinner. You will tell us when you want the physiotherapy, meditation and downtime. Nothing too hard, just enough to keep you grounded”.
Obi-Wan listened carefully, it felt like a fair deal, and he wanted to help with it. He glanced at Qui-Gon. “Can we do it together, please”, he asked quietly.
“Of course we will”. Qui-Gon held the datapad, ready to write it all down.
After some time, they had a decent but simple schedule and Obi-Wan smiled, it looked promising.
“I’m sorry”, he said to Qui-Gon, who was taping the schedule on refrigerator.
“For what”?
“For being cruel, I reminded you of Tahl, I didn’t mean it”.
The silence settled briefly between them, not heavy, just full.
Qui-Gon walked to Obi-Wans bed and took his hand gently.
“I wasn’t angry at you, it just reminded me I could lose someone again and it frightened me”.
Obi-Wan looked at him and nodded, he didn’t trust his voice, so he squeezed Qui-Gons hand harder.
“Obi-Wan”, Tahlira said after a few days, “I think, you are ready for visitors”.
Obi-Wan looked surprised but agreed, and first who come to his mind was Anakin and Mace, he knew Qui-Gon will welcome this visit too.
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The door slid open – not quietly this time. Anakin walked inside, datapad in one hand, stylus in the other, his Master followed.
Obi-Wan was sitting in bed, resting, sipping tea, but smiled when he saw Anakin, who bowed politely to greet Qui-Gon, he then turned to Obi-Wan and smiled back.
“Hi Obi-Wan”, Anakin sat on the chair next to his bed and wasted no time with his request, “I’m to observe at Senate and prepare a project how Jedis and Senators could cooperate, faster and more efficient. Master Windu says my ideas are not bad, but I need to polish it, and I know you are the best at this”. Anakin grinned wildly, putting his datapad into Obi-Wans hands, who looked little surprised, but put his cup aside,
“Ok”, he said quietly, “Let’s see what you’ve built”.
Mace looked at Obi-Wan first then to Qui-Gon and gave a long-suffering look.
“I’m sorry, I tried to explain the whole situation to Anakin, but he’s overexcited about his project”.
Obi-Wan blinked and leaned against the pillows a small laugh escaping his throat. Anakin didn’t see him as someone broken, but as someone who was perhaps able to help him, he felt the ache in his chest ease a little.
After a long time, he felt normal again.
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Anakin and Mace started spending more and more time in the healer’s wing. Anakin and Obi-Wan were working on the project, while Mace talked to Qui-Gon on balcony drinking spicy tea.
Once Anakin brought a tiny flying droid he called Zee, and together with Obi-Wan they balanced its wings and processors aligned.
After some time Obi-Wan dared to go to training salle, to watch only – but it still was a big change. He watched as Qui-Gon trained with Anakin, who still burned with raw energy, but Qui-Gon managed to teach him how to listen to the Force between each breath. Mace watched too, his arm crossed, he was usually silent but sometimes he tested Anakin’s patience with dry remarks.
Obi-Wan joined them for meditation, feeling the Force more present now, it felt so good, and he felt more hopeful about his future.
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Palpatine stood in his private chambers – alone, he wasn’t happy, in fact he was furious. He had a chance to talk to young Skywalker after another Senate observation. The boy had been polite, curious – and completely unreachable.
“Master Windu said…”
“Obi-Wan and I built…”
“Qui-Gon thinks…”
Every sentence began with a name, that wasn’t his. He hated it. He underestimated Kenobi, the young man was stronger than he thought. He was no longer living in a wardrobe but improved to the point he and Anakin become almost like brothers. And Jinn was still there too, not as Anakin Master, but like a mentor, friend – this place should be his.
He once felt chaos in Anakin, but not anymore – there was stillness instead. Foundation. Roots.
“They are grounding him”, he thought with rage, but he knew what to do.
The holoprojector flickered and a hooded figure come into view. Grohl.
“My lord”, he said dryly.
Palpatine studied him for a moment in silence, Grohl waited – he knew better.
“I want you on Coruscant, I will need you soon”.
Grohl nodded, “who is it this time”?
Palpatine didn’t rush with answer, he had to think, killing Kenobi or Jinn was impossible, he simply needed to wait, his Sith instincts told him, his chance will come soon.
“You’ll stay close. Out of sight. Unseen. When I give you order – only then you will act”.
Grohl inclined his head once.
“As you command my lord”.
The holoprojector blinked out. Palpatine sat back in the dark, eyes narrow.
His time will come – soon.
Chapter 13: The game has begun
Summary:
So chapter 13 is finished. To continue my story, I have to explain one political situation, that happened 40 years ago, when Qui-Was a fresh Jedi knight. It is important, and I wouldnt be able to move foreward, so I hope you will enjoy reading it, even this chapter does not focuc on Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon or Anakin and Mace. Palpatine is there and he feels his chance. There is also a Council scene.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
40 years ago – political conflict in Mid Rim
King Horan IV – wise and measured ruler of four prosperous planets in Mid Rim, wanted to unify fifth – a sacred planet known as Velara, beautiful place, with wild nature and spiritual significance. It was home to ancient forest, crystalline lakes, unique creatures, and full of natural recourses.
But the tribes and priestesses of Velara were fiercely against it. They feared that connecting with the king´s alliance would destroy their beautiful, sacred world. They feared strip-mining, industry and urbanization. This would disbalanced the fragile world. They valued autonomy so much, because it was the way how could they protect untouched wilderness.
Sadly, their world did not remain unrecognized. They frequently faced threats from space pirates and smugglers, all eager to exploit their precious natural resources. They fought them, but the price was often high. They knew if the king Horan IV will unify their planet, he will start protecting them, but they didn’t know how to safeguard the beautiful world. They weren’t skilled diplomats and never formalized any contracts. They turned to Jedis for help, and they send freshly knighted Qui-Gon Jinn.
Velarans trusted Qui-Gon since his arrival, he was kind, intuitive and he had fought on their behalf and truly understood their concern. They felt he was guided by the Force and not by politics.
The king Horan IV trusted him too and soon a treaty was born.
The Velarans agreed to enter a symbolic alliance with King Horan IV, but there will be no mines dug, no cities built, he would extend his protection over the sacred world, defending it against the pirates and smugglers.
In exchange, Velara will provide the alliance with two very precious natural resources.
Luxora fruit – violet berries, known for its delicacy and healing properties beyond the Mid Rim, and sunwood, a rare golden timber, praised for its strength and luminescent grain.
Both resources were highly appreciated across the galaxy.
The treaty was signed and both sides praised Qui-Gon for his wisdom and guidance. The tribes and the king Horan IV lived in peace for a long time.
But decades passed and King Horan IV died and his son, prince Vorgan ascended the throne. Physically he looked like his father, but he wasn’t - not in the heart. Where his father sought harmony, Vorgan craved dominion. Gold and money gleamed brighter to him than his father legacy and the treaty once made between the tribes and his father king Horan IV meant nothing to him.
Without warning or a consultation king Vorgan dispatched industrial team to Velara, demanding more luxora fruit and sunwood, and not just that, he wanted to build cities and mines.
King Vorgan knew, Velarans will sooner or later turn to Jedis for help, so he didn’t waste time and contacted his longtime friend and a member of the Coruscant Senate – Senator Rhi Thelor, young and ambitious man, who saw not just an opportunity to help a royal ally, but a path to wealth and influence.
As king Vorgan predicted, Velarans didn’t wait and contacted Jedi council asking for help, for Qui-Gon Jinn guidance again.
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Councillor Palpatine’s private chambers.
As Palpatine had foreseen, his opportunity had arrive - faster than he even expected.
Young senator Rhi Thelor arrived with an information about the king Vorgan and the Velarans – only a few days after he contacted Grohl. Normally Palpatine wouldn’t have paid much attention. Matters like these were best left to the Jedis.
But then something caught his attention.
“King Vorgan is willing to come to Coruscant. He is seeking my help”, Rhi explained, then continued, “And the Velarans are seeking Jedis to help them, they are asking for Master Qui-Gon Jinn”.
At that Palpatine began to listen more closely. A plan was already forming in his mind.
He gave Senator Rhi a long stare.
“So, the king Vorgan is willing to come to Coruscant, and the Velarans are turning to Jedis,” Palpatine said thoughtfully.
“And you are sure we can host them all”? Palpatine asked as if concerned, but he already knew the answer. He would ensure it will happen – one way or another.
Senator Rhi hesitated, then nodded. “Yes. I thought we can help. Was that….a mistake”?
Palpatine smiled, just enough to be unreadable.
“Senator Rhi, if you already promise king Vargan we will help them, you have to keep your word,” he said encouragingly. “We will handle it – together”.
The game had begun.
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Once alone Palpatine had reviewed the reports on king Vorgan: power hungry fool – easily influenced, and what was more important he was very easy to provoke. Just the kind of puppet he needed to use for his game.
The Velarans were another matter. Their priesthood was deeply attuned to nature, mythical, no interest in money or power – they had no value to him politically.
But they asked for Jinn, they believed in him – and that made them important.
Palpatine informed the Jedi Council that king Vorgan was on his way to Coruscant.
The Velarans had already reached out too – seeking help from Jedis. More precisely: they had asked for Master Qui-Gon Jinn.
The Council was not pleased. They disliked the idea of senators involving themselves in Jedi matters – especially in something this delicate.
Palpatine, ever composed, reassured them.
“The meeting will take place in a neutral location”, he said smoothly. “No political pressure”, he promised, “just open dialogue”.
As always, he made it sound reasonable.
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In the end, the Council agreed. The meeting would take place in a neutral location – not within the Senate, and not on Jedi grounds. The Jedis would oversee it, not the politicians. A gesture of respect toward the Velarans and their traditions.
“A delicate balance,” Kit Fisto said. “But one we can maintain”.
Yoda listened then spoke. “Uneasy and dangerous, this is”, he said. “Careful, we must be”.
“Still”, Plo Koon said, “we can’t ignore the Velarans. They come to us, they asked for Jinn, who worked with them in the past. We must help them”.
Sasesee Tiin spoke too, “And what of king Vorgan? He is not the man his father was. He´s power hungry, unpredictable. One mistake and he can discredit us on front of the entire Senate, and maybe in public too”.
Kit Fisto looked at Plo Koon, “you know, Master Jinn does not always follow our lead, are we certain he will cooperate this time? Also, we shouldn’t forget, he is Obi-Wan caregiver now”.
There was a pause. Then Ki Adi Mundi asked.
And how is Obi-Wans recovery progressing”?
Yoda answered carefully, “slow progress is there, another surgery young Kenobi had, but stable he is”.
Depa Billaba brow furrowed, “So, if Jinn accepts to help Velarans, he will have to leave Obi-Wan behind”?
“It is happening here on Coruscant, he won’t have to leave offworld, and Obi-Wan will be with mind healer Tahlira Vossin, he won’t be alone”, Plo Koon added, believing Qui-Gon wouldn’t turn his back on Velarans.
Yoda sighted, “Difficult, that will be. Strong, their bond has grown”.
“Yes, too strong, attachment”, Eeth Koth finally spoke too, “Don’t forget we still have to solve the accident, that happened yesterday, with Knight Chun”.
Yoda closed his eyes.
There was something behind all this – something just out of reach. He could feel it through the Force, a disturbance threading for a moment.
But there was no time to investigate. Not now. The Velarans needed their help, and as Jedis they were bound to give it.
Still, he knew why Master Koth mentioned the word – attachment. Yesterday young Knight Bruck Chun complained about an incident between him and Jinn. It involved Obi-Wan and how fiercely Qui-Gon protected him – he threatened the young Knight. Yoda understood why Qui-Gon acted the way he did, and still, they must investigate it.
He decided to meditate on it and be mindful and careful – but he felt it won’t be enough.
Notes:
I will post next chapter next Friday.
Chapter 14: Rising danger
Summary:
This chapter returns to Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon. Obi-Wan is healing, but he has some health problems and needs surgery. Qui-Gon is with him, helping him to go through. When Obi-Wan is better they go to Thousand Fountains, where Obi-Wan meets Bruck Chun and things quickly escalate. Qui-Gon is summoned to the Council chambers, where he learns about political situation on Velara.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
It started slowly – almost to subtly to notice. One morning, Obi-Wan couldn’t lift a cup. His fingers felt sluggish, uncoordinated, and a little numb. He brushed it off, blaming a poor night´s sleep. But more symptoms crept in, quiet and steady. Soon come a backache, dull at first but later too sharp and Obi-Wan started limping.
The migraines followed not long after. At first Obi-Wan handled the pain through meditation, later with light painkillers. But the last one hit so hard it took him down for nearly four days. He lay curled in bed, pale and trembling, flinching at the softest sounds and shielding his face from even the dimmed light.
Qui-Gon was with him all the time, doing what he could. He gently helped Obi-Wan to sit up so he could sip water or take the medicine. He checked for temperature too. When the worst pain spiked, Qui-Gon reached for the Force – to soothe and to ease the weight of it whenever he could. But it never felt like enough.
When Obi-Wan finally stirred again, exhausted but a little more aware, Vokara decided they would run a full scan of his spine and nervous system. As soon as Obi-Wan was strong enough to walk and cooperate.
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A few days later, when Obi-Wan felt better and stronger, Vokara did the scan and the results were clear – a dislocated vertebrae pressing against the cluster of nerves. No wonder the pain had been getting worse. Later she stared at the scan, her expression tight. She bit her lip, focusing hard – it was difficult spot to access, deep and delicate, and dangerously close to the spinal cord. It was risky, yes. But she knew without the surgery Obi-Wan could become paralysed.
Within a few days, Obi-Wan´s condition sharply declined. Walking become a struggle, each step was slow, measured and laced with pain. His right arm was numb, trembling – too much to hold a cup. Obi-Wan didn’t say much but the frustration showed in his eyes. He no longer asked to see Anakin or Mace, he was too tired for anything.
So, when Vokara told them the surgery would be in two days, Qui-Gon only nodded and Obi-Wan was almost grateful. Yet, when Qui-Gon looked at Obi-Wan – he was pale and worn thin by the pain, he was worried, and he later asked Vokara in her office.
“Are you sure, is he strong enough to make it through”?
But Vokara reassured him gently, “We cannot wait any longer Qui-Gon, and Obi-Wan is strong, he will be back on his feet by no time”.
Later she explained what to expect during and after the surgery.
“It will take around six hours and afterward, you won’t be allowed to move, not for a few days. Your spine needs to be still to heal properly”.
Obi-Wan gave a faint nod, too tired to say much, his eyes found Qui-Gon´s, who placed his hand on his shoulder, “Don’t worry Obi-Wan I will be there, and I will take care of you”. “Whatever you will need”.
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Two days later
The surgery was a success – precise, delicate and as complexed as Vokara had warned. When it was over, Obi-Wan was groggy and pale, but stable and Qui-Gon felt more relaxed too.
But the worst was still ahead.
As Vokara explained, Obi-Wan wasn’t allowed to move. Not an inch. His spine needed absolute stillness to heal. He lay flat on med bed, braces around his sides and chest, restricting even the smallest movement. The rigid support was uncomfortable, but necessary – constant reminder of the fragile state he was in. Only his hands were permitted limited movement – to drink or to signal discomfort.
Qui-Gon stayed closed as he promised, his presence steady and careful. He anticipated Obi-Wan every need, before the young man could even ask.
Obi-Wan was frustrated, he felt helpless, and his patience was tested daily, but his master was there, reading him for hours, his voice calm. Sometimes he spoiled him a little, ordering food from Dex´s, but only after Vokara gave her approval.
Qui-Gon brought presents from Anakin, Mace and Obi-Wan closest friends – Bant, Garen and Reeft – small tokens of friendship and encouragement that brightened the long days.
He shared his stories from the days he was still Dooku´s Padawan – some adventurous, some funny – but always easing Obi-Wan´s mind. And when Obi-Wan was asleep Qui-Gon asked Tahlira to watch over him while he went to buy few books and clothes – to remind Obi-Wan that life would go on beyond the hospital walls and better days were coming.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Obi-Wan was able to sit, then to stand. First time was wobbly – each movement careful and slow – but it was a start. Then Obi-Wan took his first steps – smiling at the victory.
Tahlira and Vokara watched with bright smiles, their pride unmistakable.
“You did a great job Obi-Wan,” Vokara said warmly, her eyes shining. Tahlira nodded in agreement, “This isn’t only physical victory Obi-Wan, it is a hard-won triumph in spirit”, she said softly.
Obi-Wan asked to go to Thousand Fountains and Vokara agreed, but she pulled Qui-Gon aside.
“You must be careful,” she warned. “Prevent any falls or sudden movements. Even a small slip could undo everything we worked so hard for”.
Qui-Gon met her gaze steadily, the weight of Vokare’s words settling heavy on his shoulders.
“I understand Vokara”, he said firmly, “I will watch over Obi-Wan, he will be safe with me”.
Qui-Gon vowed silently to protect Obi-Wan with everything he had – because failure was not an option.
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They made it to Thousand Fountains just before midday, the air cool and damp from the waterfalls. Obi-Wan sank onto one of the benches, breath uneven, sweat clinging to his brow – but there was a smile on his face. He made it – he managed to walk there.
Qui-Gon stood beside him for a moment, watching him with quiet pride, then he said almost hesitantly, “Obi-Wan I was thinking I should meditate, just for a little while”.
Obi-Wan nodded, still catching his breath, “Go ahead,” he said his voice soft, but steady. “I will be fine. I’d like to watch the waterfall for a while it’s relaxing”.
“I won’t be far”, Qui-Gon said finally, “just under the ancient tree”.
Obi-Wan smiled at him, “Don’t worry about me, I’m OK, just go”.
Qui-Gon left and Obi-Wan sat quietly, watching the water, feeling more relaxed.
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“No way….Look who’s here”.
The voice cut through the calm like a blade – sharp, smug and unmistakable – Bruck Chun – or better Knight Bruck Chun.
Obi-Wan tensed a little than turned. It was really Bruck standing behind him, he was a Knight for over a year, and he returned from long mission, apparently more arrogant than ever.
He stood a few meters away, flanked by two fellow Knights, all three in clean robes carrying the easy swagger of confidence.
Bruck grinned at Obi-Wan, he didn’t really know what Obi-Wan went through, how he suffered in Grohl’s hands, the long recovery, surgeries and the pain behind every quiet step.
“Well,” he drawled, “I didn’t expect to find you here, I’ve heard you are flat on your back in the medbay”.
Obi-Wan turned his gaze away from the trio, he wanted to be alone, he ignored them all, but Bruck went on.
“What are you now Obi-Wan”, Bruck asked with a smirk on his face. “Still a Padawan”? Or just something less”? His tone was more casual to be truly cruel – but it stung all the same.
Obi-Wan´s jaw tighten, he had no patience left to argue with Bruck, so he decided to leave. “Grow up Bruck” he said flatly rising from the bench with effort. “I have”.
From under the ancient tree, Qui-Gon was already on his feet, sensing the tension through the Force.
Obi-Wan stood fully upright leaning on crutches, Bruck stepped forward and slapped his shoulder with mock camaraderie. “Didn’t know you lost your sense for humour, you are a fragile boy now aren’t you”.
Obi-Wan winced, from the contact, jaw set, spine aching. He tried to focus but as he took another step, his crutch caught the edge of the stone path, his balance wavered and before he could adjust his foot slipped out from under him.
He didn’t fall – strong hands steadied him before the weight shifted too far. Qui-Gon. He braced one arm gently around Obi-Wans back, the other firm under his arm.
“Are you all right Obi”? Qui-Gon asked, concerned.
“I’m fine”, Obi-wan muttered, he was more frustrated and embarrassed, than anything else. But Qui-Gon didn’t let go until he was sure Obi-Wan was OK.
“Stay here Obi-Wan”, he said quietly, “I will be right back”.
He turned to Knight Bruck who was still standing nearby watching them both. “Knight Chun, walk with me”, Qui-Gon said firmly.
Bruck hesitated but followed, his two peers lingered behind them, when they moved out of Obi-Wan hearing range, Qui-Gon didn’t waste his time.
“Obi-Wan has endured more than you can imagine. He’s recovering from a complex spinal surgery. And that tap on the shoulder? You nearly undid weeks of healing”. “I know you never like him, you don’t have to, but leave him alone, will you”?
Bruck blinked but didn’t want to lose his bravado on front of his peers.
“I didn’t know – he didn’t look that fragile”, he snorted, “Maybe you should keep him in glass box, Master Jinn”.
Qui-Gon gaze sharpened, he was composed, voice low and steady, “Touch him again, and you may find yourself needing the glass box instead”. Then he left.
Bruck stood still, red-faced, humiliated – on front of his peers. Instead of thinking about the situation he decided otherwise – he strode straight to the Council chambers, his cloak snapping at his heals.
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The Council chambers
“Master Jinn threatened me,” Bruck declared, voice sharp with offense. “I have two witnesses, it was all about his Padawan Kenobi, who shouldn’t be even out of medbay if he’s so fragile”.
The Council remained still. They knew Bruck Chun too well, hothead, arrogant, if Qui-Gon threatened him, then there must be a reason.
“Explain”, Plo Koon said flatly, folding his hands.
“I greeted Kenobi – lightly, I tapped his shoulder, and he lost balance. Nothing more. Master Jinn pulled me aside and said if I touch him again, I’d be in medbay too. It wasn’t a warning, but a threat”.
Did you know about Obi-Wan condition”? Adi Gallia asked.
“Not exactly”, Bruck answered quickly.
“Obi-Wan is recovering from difficult surgery and even if he wasn’t you shouldn’t act the way you did, there will be no action taken against Master Jinn, Depa Billaba said, leaving no room for other arguments. “You can go Knight Chun”.
Yoda listened carefully, and before Bruck left, he spoke too, “Less insult, more insight, you must learn, Knight Chun”.
Bruck winced, this wasn’t the outcome he imagined, maybe he should really think before he acted. He left with a heavy exhale.
No member of the High Council believed Qui-Gon deserved reprimand. Still, a formal complaint had been made, and they needed to hear Qui-Gon´s side too, but a message from planet Velara arrived and they needed to pay attention to it.
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The following day late afternoon, Qui-Gon was called before the High Council. He was calm, as always, hands folded in his sleeves, his presence quiet and grounded.
“Master Jinn”, Plo Koon began, “Knight Chun told us, you threatened him yesterday”.
Qui-Gon nodded, “I expected he might”.
“Can you tell us what happened, Master Jinn”? Depa Billaba asked.
“He slapped Obi-Wan to his shoulder, you know he is still recovering from spinal surgery”. It was dangerous and Obi-Wan almost fell. When I told Knight Chun, he didn’t take it seriously, so I gave him a warning”. “He is a Knight, I expect he knows how to behave, even if he didn’t know about Obi-Wan´s condition”.
The Council exchanged looks.
“We reviewed Vokara’s report,” Master Gaillia said. “You acted within reason, still you crossed a line, you must be careful and not drift into attachment”.
Yoda nodded, eyes narrowing slightly. “Difficult line it is. Clear your heart is. But Master Gaillia correct is, careful you must be”.
Qui-Gon didn’t flinch. “I protected Obi-Wan, and I will protect him again if I must. I do not fear the attachment, and I won’t apologize for putting Obi-Wan safety first”.
Yoda nodded, closing his eyes, “Concerned you were, protective, but careful you must be Qui-Gon, not in action alone, but in how others see it”.
“There will be no disciplinary action”, Ki-Adi-Mundi added, “But it will be noted. Let it end here”.
“I agree”, Plo Koon said, we have another matter, that requires your attention Master Jinn. A mission”.
Qui-Gon froze – a mission? Obi-Wan still needed him, he didn’t want to leave him, not after the incident with Knight Chun.
“What mission”? he asked ever so composed.
Plo Koon explained, “You remember your mission to Mid Rim when you were a fresh Knight? You protected planet Velara and made a treaty between King Horan IV and the priestesses”.
Qui-Gon nodded, his thoughts briefly drifting back to King Horan IV and the priestesses of Velara. King Horan IV was man of honour – if unyielding, at times. The priestesses on the other hand, were noble, attuned to the rhythms of wild nature.
It had been one of his first mission, memorable even if tense and difficult.
“King Horan IV passed away last cycle. His son Vorgan has taken the throne”, Ki-Adi-Mundi explained, “He’s ambitious – dangerously so, and he wants to claim planet Velara, he’s not respecting the treaty you once helped to create”. The priestesses are requiring Jedis mediation – and they asked for you specifically”.
Qui-Gon´s brow furrowed slightly. He remembered king Vorgan as toddler, and he hoped, he will grow up to be like his father, but obviously he didn’t. He also remembered planet Velara, the beautiful forests, lakes and oceans, the rare creatures and the spiritual clarity of Velarans people. It deserved to be protected and remain untouched.
But it was too far away from Coruscant and from Obi-Wan.
Mundi continued, “King Vorgan has reached out to Senator Rhi Thelar to support his claim, and Chancellor Palpatine agreed it will happen here on Coruscant on neutral place”.
Qui-Gon winced, “Senate is going to be involved in such a delicate negotiation”?
“Yes, Depa Billaba said”, King Vorgan asked for Senator Thelar and he agreed, the priestesses are wary, they are asking for you, because you already helped them in the past, they trust you Master Jinn”.
Yoda added, “On their way they are, King Vorgan and priestesses too, stop it we cannot, but careful and mindful we must be, delicate it is”.
Qui-Gon remained silent for a moment, he can help the priestesses and still care for Obi-Wan.
“I will do what I must”, he said firmly, “I won’t let Velaran’s people down”.
“So, let’s get ready, Plo koon said, “They will arrive in 5 days”.
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Qui-Gon left the Council chambers, intent on returning to Obi-Wan, but Yoda followed him.
“Master Jinn, talk we need”, he said.
Qui-Gon paused, turning back. His expression was still calm, but there was a shadow in his eyes.
“I will help Velarans he said, “but I don’t have a good feeling about this, Master Yoda”, he said quietly.
“There is something behind – it feels wrong. Too many hands in the pot. And too much pressure from the top”.
Yoda’s ears drooped slightly, the weight of intuition pressing on them both, “Understand I do, something hidden there is. Watched we will be, by Senate, by public. No mistake must we make”.
“It will be difficult, King Vorgan is not like his father”, Qui-Gon added, “he plays a different game”.
Yoda’s gaze sharpened, “Mind the board, then and guard your heart”.
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Qui-Gon returned to medbay, it was late, and the halls had gone quiet. The chrono at the wall was clear, it was almost midnight.
Obi-Wan was asleep, his face relaxed at last. Qui-Gon stood in silence by his bed, watching him – the rise and fall of his chest, the slow rhythm of breath – but the weight in his own chest hadn’t eased. If anything, it had grown heavier.
He thought of Grohl – the abduction which Council evaluated as an accident – Jedis had enemies – but the timing felt strange and Qui-Gon knew there were unanswered questions.
The Force didn’t give him clarity – only unease, and there was no time to investigate.
But one thing was clear.
After the vision he had not long time ago he promised himself, he will protect Obi-Wan no matter what it cost.
And he will keep his promise.
Notes:
Thank you all so much for your support, its great.
Chapter 15 will arrive next Friday.
Chapter 15: When peace breaks
Summary:
Priestesses of planet Velara arrived to Coruscant, and so the King Vorgan. The negotiation had begun - and it is clear what Vorgan wants. Palpatine is there too but he just watches - he doesn´t need to do anything else. Obi-Wan spends time with Mace and Anakin, but when he is alone he recieves mysterious call. I changes everything.
Chapter Text
Negotiations begin
The five days passed by quietly, but not easily. While Coruscant buzzed around them, Qui-Gon remained focused. He spent hours studying old treaty he once helped to create, but he also studied the dynasty of King Horan IV, cultural records, King Vorgan profile, and he learned a little more about tribes on planet Velara. Obi-Wan was by his side all the time, calm but inwardly tense.
On the fifth evening, just as twilight turned the medbay windows gold, Obi-Wan spoke from his bed, his voice quiet, but steady.
“So, it looks like king Vorgan isn’t like his father after all”.
Qui-Gon looked up from his datapad, meeting Obi-Wan gaze. “You are correct Obi, king Horan was stubborn, but he believed in balance. All Vorgan wants is power and money – not unity”.
Obi-Wan nodded slowly, thoughtful. “And the priestesses? Do they still believe you?”
“I believe so, but they know it will be harder this time. Vorgan is power hungry, and it is happening on Coruscant with Senate around”.
Obi-Wan´s eyes lingered on him for a moment. “Hopefully the Senate will see how precious planet Velara is and won’t let it to be ruined”.
Then he lowered his gaze, “Master be careful”, he said quietly, “I have a feeling this isn’t just about the negotiations”.
Qui-Gon blinked in surprise. Then he walked to his side and leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to his temple – gesture he now did quite often.
“Don’t worry Obi”, he murmured, “the Force will lead me”.
But as he stepped back, the weight in his chest didn’t lessen.
Obi-Wan felt the danger too!
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Palpatine private chambers
The lights were low, the room was quiet, and the Coruscant traffic behind the closed windows barely audible. Palpatine sat in his chair, hands folded over his chest.
He smiled, slow and calculated.
“Tomorrow”, he said to no one, “the game begins”.
He turned toward a small console and activated a holopad. A moment later, a flicker of blue light come to life, showing a figure of a scarred man, eyes hard with old cruelty.
Grohl – waiting as ordered.
“My lord”, Grohl bowed slightly.
Palpatine voice was like a silk.
“Its time. Be ready”.
“When? Where?” Grohl murmured with a smirk.
“In two days, Palpatine replied. “Let the negotiations begin – let them feel they have a control, let them be hopeful. Then you strike. Kenobi. Nothing fatal, no physical contact. Just fear, Jinn will feel it, their connection is very strong. I give you more instructions soon”.
The holo flickered briefly as Grohl nodded.
“It will be done, my lord”.
Palpatine ended the transmission, the room was quiet again. He walked to the window and stared at the city with a quiet, satisfied breath.
All he must do now, is wait, pretends he cares – and soon Kenobi and Jinn especially will be out of his way.
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Negotiations – day 1
With the morning come, Qui-Gon was ready – robes immaculate, posture steady, presence calm, at least on the outside.
Obi-Wan smiled at him, “May the Force be with you, Master”, he said firmly.
Qui-Gon took his hand into his, “Thank you Obi”, he smiled back, “I will see you in the evening”. Then he left.
But Obi-Wan wasn’t alone. Anakin and Mace come to visit. Anakin smiled from ear to ear, “I will leave to my first mission with Master Windu”, he said excitedly. “In four days”.
“Well, that’s a great new Anakin, I’m sure you will do well”, Obi-Wan smiled back. Anakin talked about the details, while Mace Windu sat near Obi-Wans bed, silent but present.
Later Tahlira and Vokara come to check on him too. Obi-Wan was relaxed, safe.
Annex room
The grand hall away from the Jedis Temple and Senate chambers had been prepared for diplomacy. The room was quiet, then the door opened and Kind Vorgan entered with ceremonial precision, flanked by 3 royal guards. He wore his father´s royal colours – deep emerald and gold – but not with the humility his father once carried. Vorgan wore it like an armour a proof of power – his posture rigid, proud – almost as if the outcome had already been decided in his favour.
Senator Rhi Thelar greeted him by a bow.
Palpatine was there too, hands folded neatly, expression the perfect balance of warmth and authority. He greeted King Vorgan with calm smile.
Moment later the 3 priestesses of Velara entered too – without guards, without ornaments – their robes pale and simple. Priestess Delara a spoke person, wise and serene. Priestess Laelis – gentle and perceptive and the youngest of the three. Finaly priestess Tarana – calm, but fierce, spoken with weight and precision if needed.
At their centre Master Yoda waited, seated and still. His gaze flicked to each party – deeply connected with the Force he was weighting, watching.
Qui-Gon Jinn stood tall, hands clasped, he was composed, and just as Yoda he was connected to the Force too – he immediately felt the tension between the two arriving delegations.
Palpatine stepped forward. “Welcome, all”, he said smoothly. “Let us begin today with no accusation, but with listening to each party and seeing their concerns”.
Vorgan gave a thin smile, barely glancing at the priestesses. “My concern is clear as you will soon see”.
Delara looked at him, “Yes your Majesty, we know it is clear, but so is our concern”.
Qui-Gon exhaled slowly – so it had begun.
The opening talks were civil. King Vorgan spoke about “unity”, “stability” and “shared prosperity”. The priestesses responded in kind, emphasizing respect. It was clear how deeply they cared for their beautiful, untouched world.
Qui-Gon watched it closely, especially King Vorgan.
How he avoided answering questions about sovereignty, the repeated phrases that felt as learned from a book, he saw the calculated pauses, that gave him time to redirect the unpleasant questions.
It was too controlled.
And as time went on Qui-Gon knew King Vorgan wasn’t here to negotiate he was here to take.
“I cannot protect planet Velara if it is not reestablished fully – economically, militarily and legally”.
Priestess Laelis spoke, calm, but she folded her hands slightly tighter, “Your Majesty, we were never your vassals, it was always symbolic, yet we lived in peace with you Father King Vorgan IV and we gave our two very precious resources in return”.
But to King Vorgan this wasn’t enough, Qui-Gon even didn’t need a Force to see it. He was arrogant, too eager for power and for money.
Qui-Gon felt it won’t be easy, and he was afraid he won’t be able to protect planet Velara this time. King Vorgan wanted resources under the surface, and Qui-Gon knew he will do all he can to get them.
Palpatine watched carefully, his expression unreadable, but he already knew what he wanted, King Vorgan was a fool and easy man to manipulate, exactly the puppet he needed for his game.
From a middle seat, Yoda watched too with a heavy heart, having Senator Rhi Thelar and Chancelor Palpatine made the whole situation harder. He knew Senator Thelar will fight on King Vorgan behalf and he wished the Senate had never been involved. But King Vorgan requested Senator Thelar, and the man eagerly agreed, seeing and opportunity to help him and enrich himself in the process.
After long hours, the first day come to its end, priestesses sincerely thanked Qui-Gon and Yoda for trying to help them again, King Vorgan left, completely ignoring everyone, expect for Senator Thelar and Chancelor Palpatine.
Yoda and Qui-Gon talked on their way back to the Jedi Temple.
“For our failure, King Vorgan waiting is”, Yoda said, “focused we must be, no mistake tolerated will be”.
“My heart is with Velarans people, I will do all I can to help them”, Qui-Gon said stubbornly.
“More than fruit and woods King Vorgan wants, a compromise we must find, difficult it will be”.
Qui-Gon nodded in agreement and offered a quiet farewell to Yoda, then walked to the medbay.
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Medbay
When he returned to the medbay, Obi-Wan was still awake.
He didn’t ask what had happened – he could see the frustration in Qui-Gon´s posture, but mainly in his eyes.
Qui-Gon went to shower and when he walked out a cup of herbal tea and a small sandwich was waiting for him.
They ate in silence. The kind of silence that didn’t need to be filled.
When Qui-Gon stood to settle on the spare cot nearby, Obi-Wan shifted slightly and murmured.
“You can sleep in my place, maybe you feel more relaxed, it helped me when I had nightmares”.
It wasn’t said with hesitation, and it wasn’t a request either, just a quiet sincerity and not anything more than it was – the offer of comfort. Of closeness, of not being alone.
Qui-Gon looked at him for a moment. Then, with a soft exhale, he nodded and walked to Obi-Wan´s bed.
He lay beside Obi-Wan carefully, mindful of his healing body, there was no need for words.
They both drifted to sleep soon after.
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Negotiations day 2
The tone from a previous day had changed.
Gone were the formal pleasantries and slow pace of the first day. King Vorgan, seated next to Senator Thelar no longer even tried to mask his true intentions, his voice was sharp, and every sentence aimed with purpose.
“My father protected your planet for too long, and he gave much more than you. Now it time to connect Velara to our alliance. Or if you want to be protected still, you must give more than fruit and woods”.
The priestesses remained composed, and Qui-Gon spoke, he reminded King Vorgan about the treaty between alliance and planet Velara.
“Your Majesty, your father King Horan IV chose the protection, because he saw the beauty of planet Velara, he believed it deserved to be protected”.
Vorgan snorted, leaning forward.
“And what did that earn him”? He gave Qui-Gon hard stare, “surely less than he gave. I’m not my father and I expect more”.
Senator Thelar nodded in agreement.
Velara´s minerals and energy resources have gone untapped for too long. If it will be regulated under royal governance – the whole Mid Rim could benefit from it.
“Indeed”, King Vorgan smiled triumphally, “don’t forget my third-grade grandfather king Horan Edras III, protected planet Velara for more than berries, and they were close to unify Velara if the civil war wouldn’t interrupt it. I have all the old treaties with me”.
Qui-Gon jaw tightened – he watched Vorgan posture at the negotiation table and he couldn’t help, but he remembered his Father King Horan IV.
Stubborn, yes. Proud. But not deaf to reason.
It was hard to convince him, but when it come to the priestesses of Velara, he had treated them as equals, not relics or burden. His wisdom had guided him, and he had allowed it – even when it challenged his authority.
Vorgan was none of that. He wore the crown like a weapon.
And Senator Rhi Thelar was worse. Hungry for influence, for power – and he knew he will find it both in Velara´s untouched wealth. He saw the sacred land as nothing more than a huge potential. Where Horan IV preserved, Vorgan and Thelar would devour.
Qui-Gon felt the tension, but also something else, a subtle ripple in the Force, as if it were trying to warn him. But of what, he couldn’t yet see.
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Medbay – afternoon
The room was quiet after lunch. Mace and Anakin visited Obi-Wan shortly after Qui-Gon left for negotiations and stayed with him for hours. They had left before lunch. Vokara and Tahlira had checked on him too, but they knew he was tired, so they let him rest.
He lay back on the medbed, one arm curled over his chest, eyes drifting closed.
Until the comm on his nightstand chimed.
Obi-Wan blinked, confused, groggy and glanced toward it.
He couldn’t see who was calling, so he hesitated, then he reached for it and tapped the receive pad.
“Obi-Wan Kenobi”, he said his voice raspy.
“Hello, little shadow”.
Obi-Wan froze, he knew the voice – too well.
Grohl.
“Do you miss the hole Obi”? Grohl said, unable to hide the cruelty in his voice.
“Did you tell your Master how you begged, or how you screamed”? Maybe I can tell him”.
The call cut out.
Obi-Wan stared at the comm, breath shallow, his hand trembled, he tried to stay calm, released the fear into the Force, but he was terrified.
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Annex room
Then – Qui-Gon felt it.
A spike in the Force. Not pain, not physical harm.
Terror, fear. Crushed breath – Obi-Wan.
“Excuse me”, he said sharply, “I suggest we take a break”.
The priestesses looked at him surprised, but nodded in agreement, Yoda’s ear twitched, as it he would feel it too.
“Leaving in the middle of royal negotiations? Curious behaviour from a Jedi”, Senator Thelar snorted.
But Qui-Gon was already moving toward the exit.
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The door hissed open and Qui-Gon strode in, his presence unmistakable – strong, urgent, protective.
Obi-Wan sat on the edge of the medbed, hands clenched in his lap. He looked up, startled, his face pale, eyes wide but dry.
Vokara and Tahlira with him.
Tahlira explained – “Obi-Wan said, that Grohl had contacted him via comm”.
Qui-Gon was already in front of him, kneeling slightly to meet his gaze.
“Obi-Wan, I’m here, tell me what happened”.
“I was almost asleep, when my comm chimed. It was Grohl, he asked me if I miss the hole, and”….Obi-Wan continued, trying to catch a breath, “he told me if I remember how I begged…..he…” Obi-Wan couldn’t finish the sentence, still too terrified.
Qui-Gon gently cupped Obi-Wan´s face, steadying him.
“But there is no evidence on my comm, that Grohl contacted me”, Obi-Wan whispered, still trembling.
Vokara nodded from nearby, arms folded.
“That’s true, I searched his comm records myself. Nothing was logged. No signal, no trace”.
Qui-Gon looked at Obi-Wan, he was pale, eyes distant and clouded with fear, he knew it wasn’t a dream, something real had reached Obi-Wan, just beyond what the sensors could catch. And it terrified him.
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Annex room
Rhi Thelar stood beside Vorgan, his tone light but laced with sarcasm.
“So, Master Jinn has abandoned royal negotiations? May I ask why, what is more important”?
Yoda’s expression remained unreadable, the weight of the question settling heavily in the chamber. He considered his answer carefully.
But before he could speak, Thelar replied – loud enough for everyone to hear it.
“He is tending his ailing padawan, I believe”.
He got immediate reaction from all present.
The priestesses exchanged quiet glances – there was no judgement in their eyes, only understanding.
Vorgan, on the other hand, bristled. His pride had been slighted.
“So, Master Jinn put personal attachments above diplomacy,” he muttered, voice low, angry, “And I’m expected to leave this insult without consequences”?
Delara, rose from her seat with quiet authority.
“Your Majesty”, she said gently, “it is not an insult to honour the well-being of his padawan. Master Jinn absence is temporary, and I’m sure when he will be back, he explains more, and we can continue”.
Yoda spoke too.
“Understand, we do, your time is valuable, King Vorgan. But so is the well-being of those who serve peace, balance in all things we must seek – not only power, but compassion”.
Vorgan gave a slow, tight nod.
His voice too calm, “For now, I take Master Yoda at his word. But I expect no sudden interruption, not from anyone. I’m not a man accustomed to being….overlooked”. One more disruption, and I will not be so tolerant”.
Palpatine said nothing, he just watched in silence, hiding the smile that threatened to surface.
Vorgan was a fool – proud, volatile, easy to steer. And Jinn? Even better, attached to Kenobi, predictable. He knew the High Council will react to this.
Everything was moving as he had planned. Grohl was around, ready to strike as instructed.
All he had to do was let them to destroy themselves.
Chapter 16
Summary:
Grohl strikes again and Obi-Wan is scared, but determited to save Qui-Gon, which leads to terrible concequences.
Notes:
Hello everyone, I know I post on friday, but we are leaving for vacation tomorrow, and Im afraid there will be no time to post. So I hope tuesday post is fine. Chapter 17 will be post as usually - on friday - in two weeks.
You can, let me know, if you still like the story :-)
Chapter Text
As Palpatine had foreseen, the Council summoned Qui-Gon the following day. It was a weekend, and the negotiations had paused because of it.
King Vorgan agreed to see more of Coruscant, and the priestesses decided to have a rest.
Qui-Gon stood in the centre of the Council chamber – tense, his posture defiant.
Mistress Simone, cold, rigid and disciplined, had taken a seat after Master Windu watched him closely.
“Tell us what made you to leave in the middle of royal negotiations, Master Jinn”, she said sternly.
“It was Obi-Wan”, Qui-Gon explained, “He told me Grohl had contacted him, and I trust him, he was terrified”.
Yoda nodded, “The disturbance in the Force – I felt it too, terrified young Kenobi was”,
“Still”, Ki-Adin-Mundi added, “There is no prove Grohl called Obi-Wan, it sounds like nothing more than a bad nightmare. Considering what Obi-Wan endured – it would make sense”.
Qui-Gon winced, “Obi-Wan was trembling, he was petrified, it wasn’t a nightmare”.
Mistress Simone gave him a hard stare, “Obi-Wan endured a great deal I know, but I agree with Ki-Adi-Mundi, it was nothing more, than a bad dream. We all know his mental health hasn’t fully stabilized. He wandered off from medbay, because he was disoriented and couldn’t remember his was back. His memory is unreliable, and let’s not forget, he recently underwent spinal surgery”.
Qui-Gon exhaled slowly, “Obi-Wan wandered off months ago. He is much stronger now – more stable. I believe it’s time we reopen his case. We need to investigate why, he was kidnapped. Who is Grohl? Who sent him? Why? Who’s behind all of this”?
Simone snorted, “We”? “In the middle of royal negotiations?”
Plo Koon spoke next, his voice calm but dismissive, “We´ve already investigated. It was an accident. Grohl was just man who hated Jedis. That’s all.
Simone spoke again, “Master Jinn, be mindful of attachment. If I’m not mistaken, you were threatening Knight Chun, after he pushed Obi-Wan, am I right?”
“Knight Chun pushed Obi-Wan 2 weeks after his spinal surgery. He was mocking him, it could end badly for Obi-Wan”. Qui-Gon voice was low, controlled, but the anger beneath it was clear.
Yoda didn’t say anything, he just watched in silence, he knew how deeply Qui-Gon cared for Obi-Wan and Mistress Simone and others were correct, Obi-Wan has been through a lot, still recovering from difficult surgery. Yes, Kenobi was terrified, but it was probably a nightmare.
Still, there was something dark, he could feel it, and Qui-Gon too, they must pay attention to it, but right now it was impossible, the mission was their priority.
“Investigate Kenobi´s case further we will. But now, focus on the royal negotiations, we must. No other disruption or mistake tolerated will be”.
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Mace and Anakin come to visit Obi-Wan again, they were set to leave that evening.
Anakin wore a new tunic, Padawan braid was carefully braided, and he was beaming with pride.
“It is my first mission, I hope it goes well”, he said, “I will tell you all about it, when we return”.
Then his smile faded.
“Will you and Master Jinn be all right? Master Qui-Gon won´t he be…reprimanded”?
Mace placed a steady hand on Anakin shoulder.
Qui-Gon will be fine. He’s been through worse, Anakin. Trust me”.
But Obi-Wan caught the faint shadow in Mace´s eyes – a flicker of doubt he didn’t speak aloud.
As they were leaving, Anakin paused in the doorway.
“May the Force be with you,” he said smiling brightly.
“And with you”, Obi-Wan replied warmly.
But inside, he felt hollow. A shift was coming. Something will change – and it would not be small.
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Qui-Gon returned late. Obi-Wan was waiting for him as always, and he held a small carefully wrapped gift from Anakin – herbal tea, Qui-Gon´s favourite.
“He thought you might need this”. Obi-Wan said softly, handing it over.
Qui-Gon smiled warmly, but his smile faded, “I missed a chance to see Anakin before his first mission, because of the damned meeting”.
Obi-Wan looked at him, “How was it? I guess they don’t believe me”?
“No, they don’t”, Qui-Gon nodded slowly, “but Yoda believes there is something behind, when the negotiations are over, your case will be reopened”.
Obi-Wan looked and him and nodded, he understood, no other disruption will be tolerated and Qui-Gon must help the priestesses to protect their sacred world.
Council decision was clear, there wasn’t much to discuss. So, Obi-Wan switched the topic, “How will you protect planet Velara, if King Vorgan took all old treaties with him”?
Qui-Gon bit his lip, “I must think about it, you are right Vorgan will bring all ancient treaties to the table and will try to find a way to tie Velara into his alliance. One way or another.
“Alliance”? Obi-Wan eyes lit up with a spark of realization, “I almost forgot, I’ve been doing some research Master, there is an alliance – a network, that connects and protect planets across the galaxy. If they see Velara as valuable, they might welcome it in”.
He paused, lowering his voice slightly.
“It is actually very new, and it’s called Stellar Unity”.
Qui-Gon raised an eyebrow, “I’m impressed Obi-Wan I will look at it, maybe you really find something”.
“I hope so, but the thing is they must learn about Velara first. Understand its potential. Right now, it’s barely a name in their records”.
Qui-Gon smiled at him, warmth in his eyes. Mentally unstable the Council had said. Obi-Wan was bright, mindful, and after everything he endured he still tried to help others.
Later, Qui-Gon began researching the Stellar Unity himself, Obi-Wan was right – this could be the way. A real path for Velara.
Qui-Gon contacted Yoda first, who was impressed by the new and went straight to medbay. He stepped quietly into the room where Obi-Wan lay – still pale, eyes tired, but he stirred at his presence.
Yoda walked closer and set a small hand on Obi-Wan´s arm.
“About Stellar Unity Qui-Gon told me, clever move this is, chosen well. Strategic”.
Then very gently, “Trust you, I do, truly. Reopen your case will be”. “Alone you are not”.
Obi-Wan´s eyes filled with something unspoken – relief, maybe. “Thank you Master Yoda”, he said quietly.
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Later that day, Yoda and Qui-Gon contacted the Velaran priestesses together. They explained the Stellar Unity, what it could mean, and how it might shift the balance without breaking their beautiful world. The priestesses listened intently. And their answer was clear.
Priestess Laelis spoke, “This is a path worth walking. We all will support it”.
Qui-Gon contacted the Stellar Unity right after the approval from the priestesses. It will change everything.
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After the weekend the negotiations continued – but the air had shifted.
King Vorgan was no longer veiling his threats. His voice was sharp, his tone openly hostile.
“This will end soon and Velara will either comply or face the consequences”.
Senator Thelar nodded, “I agree with King Vorgan,” he said folding his hands before him. “It would be a shame for Velara to hoard such a rare and valuable natural resources, especially when the galaxy is in need”.
He glanced toward the priestesses, voice lowering just enough to imply threat.
“Without King Vorgan´s protection, your planet will be vulnerable. In time it will be devoured – sooner or later”. “
Then he smiled and added, “You have two choices,” he said coldly. “You will either pay much more for Vorgan´s protection or you will unify. Join his alliance. Fold Velara into something lanrger”.
King Vorgan smiled triumphantly, “Refusal is still an option, of course – but I wouldn’t advise it”. “As you can see, you are cornered, there is no third path, only two options. You will either submit to my alliance, or you will pay a price your world cannot afford”.
He stepped forward to the priestesses, “You have two days”, he declared, “then I expect your decision”.
His gaze swept across the room – lingering briefly on Qui-Gon.
“Unification…or consequences”.
Qui-Gon jaw tightened. Two days – until the Stellar Unity arrived, two days given from King Vorgan. They must be prepared.
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Afternoon same day - medbay
The afternoon sun filtered through the tall window of the recovery wing as Obi-Wan moved through his physiotherapy exercises. His motions slow, precise, he was determined to return to full physical health as soon as possible.
He was alone, the healer trusted him enough to let him focus. But then something caught his eye. Outside, just above the tree line a dark vessel drifted into view.
Obi-Wan froze.
No, it can’t be, but the markings and the shape – it was unmistakable. Grohl’s ship.
A bolt of cold shot through him.
He turned away wanted to leave or call the healer, but he slipped, and his balance faltered – he fell. His head hit the corner of the bench, and he landed on his right hand – a sharp pain surged up in his wrist. But he kept moving, he didn’t want to be alone.
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When Qui-Gon returned to the Temple that night, Vokara met him with tight lips and lowered eyes.
“Obi-Wan had a small accident during physiotherapy”.
Qui-Gon breath stilled, but Vokara continued.
“He hit his head and broke his wrist, and he claims he saw Grohl’s ship”. “He is stable, shaken and resting”.
Qui-Gon exhaled heavily, now it was clear someone was behind this all, but he decided to keep it between them for now. No reports to the Council. Obi-Wan already suffered enough to be questioned again. The negotiations will soon be over, then they will focus on Obi-Wan case.
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By the morning Qui-Gon stood by Obi-Wan´s bed longer than he should have, the young man was still asleep and Qui-Gon hesitated, then he forced himself to walk away, knowing Vokara and Tahlira will watch over him all the time.
He arrived at the annex room on time, yet King Vorgan snorted. “I expected Jedi Master to arrive before me”.
Before Qui-Gon could react, a voice announced surprising new, “Delegation from Stellar Unity, requesting entry”. They arrived earlier!
Then the doors parted, and two members of Stellar Unity walked in. Diplomatic robes, emblems shining in the sunlight. Their presence was undeniable.
King Vorgan stood up so fast his chair crashed backwards. “Can somebody explain to me what’s going on, why are those people here”.
Qui-Gon finally allowed himself the smallest smile and he saw how the priestesses relaxed immediately.
Yoda took the word and explained, “Your Majesty, Stellar Unity a company is, world sacred as planet Velara they protect, listen we should”.
One member of the Stellar Unit spoke after Yoda, “We are here to offer protection, she said, “We learned about planet Velara and its natural resources, culture and neutrality and it’s a perfect candidate for full recognition within the Unity”.
King Vorgan was still standing, red-faced, and he almost yelled, “This is intervention”! “I wasn’t even informed about this, I bet it’s your work Master Jinn”. He was furious, he didn’t know much about Stellar Unity, but if they would connect Velara, his chances for its resources will be non-existent.
Senator Thelar lifted his hand, “We are taking a break, we need to discuss the next steps”.
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As Tahlira and Vokara promised they stayed with Obi-Wan, Vokara needed some blood tests and Tahlira offered to have a lunch together. After the lunch Obi-Wan was tired.
“I’m fine to stay alone Tahlira”, he said, I’m planning to read a little and then take a nap”.
Tahlira was hesitant, but then she agreed, “Ok Obi, I will be in my office”.
When Tahlira left, Obi-Wan sighted, he was a Jedi, he wanted to return to his duties, even if not as a Jedi Knight, then at least as negotiator or mentor, he should focus to studies and forget about his past.
Obi-Wan opened a book and started reading. He focused on the book and didn’t realise the window opened with a whisper of a wind.
Before he could react, Grohl was in the room, moving like a shadow. Obi-Wan barely managed to stand before Grohl slammed him back down into the mat. A hand clamped over his mouth.
Obi-Wan tried to reach for the Force but couldn’t, Grohl must have something that cut him from it.
He leaned in closer, his breath hot with malice.
“Hello little shadow”, he whispered, “Still weak I see, you are not fun like this, maybe I can take your master instead”. He grinned, then added, “Let see who finds him first – me or you, he still is in Senate chambers, I bet I will be there first”.
And then, just as quickly as he appeared, he was gone.
The room was still, briefly Obi-Wan lay gasping, heart pounding, then he jumped to his feet, ignoring the pain in his chest and moved.
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Annex room
It was late afternoon, and inside the room the atmosphere was heavy. While the priestesses and Stellar Unity were talking about signing the treaty, King Vorgan was mad and he whispered with Senator Thelar, still plotting, but he knew he lost it all and Jinn was to blame.
He turned to Qui-Gon who stood near the centre, he was calm but alert.
“You were supposed to inform me about the Stellar Unit”, he said angrily. “There”, he held the treaty Qui-Gon once helped to create, “you promised my father, you will keep in mind the well-being of our world too, we still need the luxora fruit and the woods, you need talk to the priestesses”.
Qui-Gon sighted, King Vorgan had a point, luxora fruit helped people with health problems, and he was sure despite all that happen the priestesses will share it, if not for King Vorgan, then for people who need it.
“I will talk to the priestesses your Majesty”, he reassured the King.
But before he could reach them, the chamber doors burst open.
Obi-Wan stumbled in, breathless. His hair uneven, hand in a sling, his hospital gown tangled, and bare feet slapping the polished floor.
The room froze for a while.
The priestesses rose from their seats, concerned. King Vorgan watched bewildered.
Qui-Gon stepped forward Obi-Wan instantly, concern tightening every line of his face.
“Obi-Wan”, he said, reaching for him, to steady him, “What happened?”
“Grohl. He was in my room, he’s after you, he said, he…..”. Obi-Wan couldn’t finish the sentence, the pain in his chest was now enormous, his breath wet and whistling.
Qui-Gon scooped him into his arms, “I need to take him to the medbay”, he said quietly.
Vorgan was motionless for a while, his pride in ruins, but he quickly shook it off.
“Master Jinn am I a joke to you”? “I said it before, no more disruption, if you walk out from this room there will be consequences”, he said his voice dangerously low.
But Qui-Gon was already opening the exit doors.
When Qui-Gon left, Yoda stood before Vorgan, calm as ever, unshaken, his voice low and steady.
“Peaceful, this moment must remain”, he said. “Anger leads to blindness. To consequences beyond control”.
But Vorgan was beyond reasoning.
“Master Jinn repeatedly ignored my warnings, he brought delegates from Stellar Unity without informing me first, he made me look like a fool, and now he left in the middle of negotiations again, defending mentally unstable apprentice”. “Master Yoda, I either make it public, or you will punish Master Jinn alone”.
He left and the silence behind him was deeper than the room itself.
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Qui-Gon stood in the centre of the Jedi Council chambers, his expression composed, but his eyes shadowed with concern. Beside him stood healer Vokara and Tahlira, both silent, both uneasy.
The Council sat in a full circle. Watching. Judging.
Mistress Simone leaned forward slightly, her voice cold and precise.
“Will you explain what happened Master Jinn”?
Qui-Gon took a deep breath. “Obi-Wan was attacked by Grohl. In the Temple. Grohl told him, I will be his next target and Obi-Wan came to the Senate to warn me, despite his injuries.”
He then glanced briefly to Vokara and Tahlira, “The boy should never have been left unguarded”.
The words hung in the air like a fog.
Simone´s gaze sharpened, “First Master Jinn, there is no proof Grohl attacked Obi-Wan, no records had been found and if you say Obi-Wan should be guarded non-stop, then its time to rethink his mental condition”.
Ki-Adi-Mundi spoke next. “You acted from conviction. But also from attachment, and not the first time, but repeatedly”.
Yoda closed his eyes, he didn’t like to punish Qui-Gon, but he couldn’t risk King Vorgan to make it all public. Jedi reputation was at risk.
Depa Billaba spoke next.
“Effective immediately, you will be formally stripped of your Jedi rank. You will leave Jedi Temple within 12 hours, and you are forbidden to see young Kenobi.
Silence.
Qui-Gon gave the smallest of nods. No protest, no anger – he only thought of Obi-Wan.
Tahlira took a step forward. “This is wrong, you can’t send him away, Obi-Wan needs him”.
Simone turned her gaze toward her, unmoved, “It is necessary, if it’s the way to keep the fiasco from public”. And speaking of Obi-Wan, Simone looked at Vokara, “He is mentally unstable, is he not”?
The question lingered like a blade and Qui-Gon swallowed hard, as if he felt what will come.
Vokara hesitated – just for a moment.
Then she spoke, her voice flat, clinical.
“Obi-Wan Kenobi has exhibited disorientation, memory gaps, emotional spikes. Repeated exposure to trauma. His condition cannot be ignored”.
Qui-Gon and Tahlira turned at Vokara, disbelief flickering across their faces.
But Vokara continued, ignoring them both.
“For his safety, and the safety of others, I recommend he be formally moved to the Temple´s mental health wing for indefinite treatment.
Simone nodded in understanding, “And his bond with Master Jinn”?
Qui-Gon´s jaw clenched, he didn’t want to hear the answer. He didn’t care what will happen to him, but if they will send Obi-Wan away to mental wing the young man will not make it through.
“Punish me as you need”, he said almost pleading, “But let Obi-Wan stay with Tahlira, he trusts her….and”.
“Qui-Gon”, Simone said sternly, “do not interrupt, let Vokara finish”. Please healer Che, tell us what you recommend we do with their bond”?
Vokara spoke clearly. “It will be severed”.
Chapter 17
Summary:
Decisions are made, Qui-Gon is gone and Obi-Wan learns about the results - he is devastated. Vokara does something unexpected and Tahlira helps her. Qui-Gon has only one chance to act. His and Obi-Wan´s lives will never be the some.
Notes:
So Im back from vacation, chapter 17 is written so I decided to post it today:-)
Next chapter arrives next Friday. I will pay more attetinon to Mace and Anakin, but also to Yoda :-)
Chapter Text
The negotiations were over. The priestesses and diplomats from Stellar Unity were still on Coruscant and so was King Vorgan, all waiting for the results. Priestesses tried to defend Qui-Gon, but they had very little influence, as Vorgan was ready to make it all public, if Qui-Gon remained Jedi.
Palpatine sat alone in his private chambers. All had happened as he had planned. The Jedis were blind, public image mattered more the truth. Instead investigating the strange events, they had chosen silence, decorum and protocol.
Palpatine knew Yoda had felt the dark side stirring – he had sensed it. But now, with Jinn disgraced and stripped of his ranks, Yoda did very little. He went to King Vorgan, to talk to him, but lost the battle.
It almost felt, like the old Jedi Master worried about the Order reputation more than he feared the Sith. That fear made him weak. And weakness, Palpatine thought, was the greatest ally of the dark.
But he still wasn’t fully content, Jinn must be out of his was completely and Grohl was waiting for another instructions.
He now appeared as holo, “My lord,” he said, bowing slightly, “I hope I carried out my task to your satisfaction”.
Palpatine nodded slowly, “Wery well Grohl. You performed as expected. Your reward awaits.”
A flicker of something – pride, perhaps, crossed Grohl’s expression, Sidious could be generous, if the job was well done.
“But,” Palpatine continued, catching Grohl’s attention again, “You are not finished yet. Remain on Coruscant. I will summon you when the next phase begins”.
Grohl bowed again, deeper this time.
“As you command my lord”.
The holoprojector turned off, leaving Palpatine again in silence – just as he liked it.
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Medbay
Tahlira moved quietly through the Jedi Temple´s corridors, her heart heavy, she had worst news for Obi-Wan, and she must deliver it.
She found Obi-Wan in the balcony of his room, he sat on the chair, motionless, staring at nothing. He felt through the Force something very bad had happened. Now he looked at Tahlira, “Its bad, isn’t it”? he asked quietly.
“Qui-Gon was stripped of his ranks, and he is exiled from the Order”. She swallowed hard, “I’m here to pack his belongings, he is not allowed to come here”.
“It’s because of me”, Obi-Wan said his voice trembling. His hands clenched tightly around the wooden carving, knuckles pale. “I went to the Senate, and Qui-Gon left the negotiations because of me”.
Tahlira moved closer, her voice soft, but firm. “No, Obi-Wan. Don’t carry this weight – it isn’t yours. Qui-Gon would do it again if he had to, because he believes in you. He loves you like a son”.
Obi-Wan looked at her, blinking fast, “Then let me go with him”, he whispered, “Let me follow him. If they cast him out, then I will leave too”.
He walked to the room, took out two travel bags and started packing quickly. His chest still hurt, Vokara told him, he developed asthma – but he didn’t care, all he wanted was to find Qui-Gon.
But Tahlira stepped closer again and stopped him. “Obi-Wan, I’m afraid, you can’t go”.
Obi-Wan dropped the clothes, “What”?
She took a deep breath, her voice soft with regret. “The Council has already decided, Obi-Wan. They’ve…deemed you as mentally unstable. After all those accidents….”
Obi-Wan backed away from her, “You know what happened, you know I’m not unstable, you trust me, do you”?
“I do Obi”, but it doesn’t matter right now, “Vorgan is mad, he is threatening the Jedi Council, if you will leave, you only make things worse for Qui-Gon. They’ve already ordered your transfer to mental wing. You are not to leave the Temple”.
Obi-Wan was speechless, it felt like a nightmare.
“I tried to help, I pleaded them you could stay with me, but they didn’t allow it. And there’s more”.
Obi-Wan chuckled, “Really, not a single good new”?
Tahlira hesitated. “They are severing your bond with Qui-Gon”.
Silence.
Obi-Wan stumbled back a step. It felt like the ground itself had cracked beneath him.
“Do they even understand what they will do?” he choked, “That’s like ripping out a piece of my soul”.
Tahlira’s voice trembled now too, “Listen to me Obi-Wan, don’t fight them, I will try to find a way how to help you, I swear”.
“When they come” Obi-Wan asked his voice small.
Tahlira looked at him briefly, “After lunch, healer Sanitra Vorn, she is the chief of Congitive Stabilizer and she decided your bond will be severe here, so you will have clear beginning”.
Obi-Wan sat on his bed, he held his Master cloak, he tried to compose himself, but he didn’t succeed.
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Vokara Che´s office
The door slid open with a soft hiss. Tahlira stepped inside quickly, her steps sharp with purpose. The office was dim and quiet Vokara sat behind her desk with tiny fly droid in her hand – she was adjusting its wings, and watched how it twitched, buzzed and span.
Tahlira stood in a place, confusion darkening her anger.
“May I ask you Vokara, what are you doing?” she asked. “You know Sanitra Vorn arrives within an hour.
Vokara didn’t look up. “Yes, I am aware”.
Tahlira stepped closer to her desk, “Obi-Wan will be taken to the mental wing, his bond with Qui-Gon will be severed and you allowed it to happen”.
“Really”? Vokara finally met her gaze, “You believed it, they will too”.
Tahlira´s eyes widened, “You were bluffing”.
Vokara didn’t immediately answer, she put the droid to the table, making sure it’s ready to fly off.
“I can’t fight the system, Talhira, not openly”. She sighted, “I never lost a patient to the damn politic, and Obi-Wan is still my patient”.
Tahlira watched Vokara as she opened the small window and whispered to the little droid. “Target: Qui-Gon Jinn. Priority: Red. Deliver the message and self-destruct after payback.
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Qui-Gon sat cross-legged, eyes closed, immersed in the Force, he tried to release his anger, fear, but it didn’t work – not really. He thought of Obi-Wan, he must find a way how to save him – but his focus wavered the moment the small fly droid entered.
It hovered before him, silent, then projected a small blue holofield.
To Qui-Gon surprise Vokara´s image appeared – calm, composed, but urgent.
“Jinn, I know you might be anger with me right now, but it had to look I’m on their side, I need to protect myself and you need help from me in the future too. Obi-Wan will be taken to mental wing – tonight at seven. They will try to severe the bond before. I will not allow it to happen, but keep in mind I must give him something that makes him sick – it’s necessary. Wait in the hangar bay, 7 p.m., west wing, floor – 5, med ship MDX-7, you will find further information on co-pilot desk. Attack, and remember it must look realistic, hurt me, my leg – not hand, Tahlira will be there too, then Sanitra Vorn and her two assistants – Force push – no serious injury – I will create chaos. You will have 5 minutes to leave, the security gates will be closed automatically after the alarm. Be ready, you have only one chance. May the Force be with you”.
The image flickered, then dissolved.
The droid beeped once – then blinked out of existence with a soft pop of sparks.
Qui-Gon smiled, he grabbed his unpacked back and then moved quickly with purpose.
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Vokara´s office
Tahlira and Vokara stood in the office in silence, the tiny droid was gone, and they both knew sending it was the easy part. Now come the harder decision – how they keep Obi-Wan safe.
Sanitra Vorn would arrive within the hour. Time was bleeding out, and so were their options.
“Obi-Wan´s bond with Qui-Gon is strong, too strong but Vorn will do all she can to severe it, and she will check if she succeeded”. Tahlira said quietly.
Vokara stared at her, expression unreadable. She opened small drawer and pull out a small ampule, with transparent fluid in it.
“I have an idea, I give him this”, she said trying to sound firm.
“But”? Tahlira asked, understanding it will not be so easy, “What will happen”?
“It’s a sedative, very hard to trace. It will disconnect Obi-Wan from Force, from his connection to Qui-Gon, temporarily. It will look to Vorn like if she was successful. The effects arrive about two hours after she will try to sever their bond. It will look natural, no one will be suspicious.”
“But”, Vokara bite her lips, “Side effect is high fever, which combined with his asthma is a risk, plus Qui-Gon will be alone with him. They will reach another hospital in 5 days, I need to pack all they will need”.
Tahlira hesitated, voice heavy, “He will suffer”.
Vokara exhaled, “we don’t have a choice, if Obi-Wan resist, Vorn will push hard, which can be devastating. The fever is better option. I will have a few hours to treat it, before the departure”.
Tahlira nodded, there really was nothing else to do.
Recovery room
The door to Obi-Wan´s room opened with a low hiss.
Obi-Wan didn’t turn, he was sitting cross-legged on the floor, back straight, hands resting on his knees.
“Obi-Wan”, Tahlira said softly.
But there was no answer.
Vokara knelt beside him, “Obi-Wan, I can’t tell you everything, but we will help you”.
“How”, Obi-Wan´s eyes widened.
Vokara took the ampule from her pocket, “Do you trust me”? She asked, looking into his eyes.
Obi-Wan nodded, and let her brush his hair away, the hiss of the injector was quiet, and he didn’t even flinch when she pressed it into his neck.
“What is it”? he asked.
“This”, Vokara explained briefly, “is the way how to keep your bond with Qui-Gon safe”.
“Tahlira, put her hand on his shoulder, “we promised to help you, please trust us, no matter what will happen next”.
Obi-Wan smiled a little and nodded in agreement.
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Sanitra Vorn arrived after lunch, as scheduled and entered Obi-Wan´s room with precise steps, her two assistants flanking her like shadows.
“I’m here to move patient Kenobi to mental wing, but first we need to severe the bond between him and Master Jinn”, she said, her voice clinical.
Obi-Wan sat on the bed, he knew there was no reason to argue or to resist, so he did as Sanitra instructed him – he remained in cross-legged position. The two assistants held him, to prevent him from falling.
The bond separation started.
It was just as Vokara had warned.
Obi-Wan resisted at first, but it was hard – Sanitra was strong and trained. He felt Vokara holding his shoulders and when he briefly opened his eyes, he saw Tahlira concerned face. He held with all strength he had left to his bond with Qui-Gon, feeling his head swam.
“Let it go, Obi-Wan”, Sanitra pressed, she sounded more sympathetic, but Obi-Wan didn’t care, he didn’t want this….
Then the sedative struck.
Abruptly, his aura dimmed. His resistance crumbled – not shattered but blurred, like a thought lost mid-sentence. He felt feverish. His skin was flushed and drenched in sweat. Breathing become fast and he felt control completely.
The bond between him and Qui-Gon weakened.
Frayed.
And finally, to the outward eye, it severed.
Obi-Wan winced, his lips moved soundlessly. His eyes fluttered open for second, confused and unfocused.
Sanitra Vorn stood at the edge of the bed, her expression calm. Measured, but not unkind.
She wasn’t cruel, she believed this was necessary to give Obi-Wan new start.
“This is mercy,” she said quietly, more to herself than to him, “you will have a new beginning young Kenobi”.
She stepped closer, “Two hours, you are stubborn, but now the bond is gone”, she said quietly, and for now Sanitra was content, her gaze was filled not with pity, but with purpose.
“You don’t need the past anymore”.
Obi-Wan blinked up at her, not fully seeing – sweat running down his temple, breath catching in his throat.
“I will come in two hours to check fully if the bond is gone”, Sanitra informed Vokara.
But Vokara disagreed, “His fever is getting higher, he needs rest before we move him to mental wing”.
Sanitra sighted, Obi-Wan was drenched in sweat, she felt the bond was severed and this was probably a symptom of it.
“Ok”, she said finally, “take care of his fever, we will leave in 3 hours”.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
It was 6:00 p.m.
The lower levels of the Temple were quiet at this hour – silent even. Not even droids were around. Only vessels – mainly medical. Qui-Gon hide under medship MDX-7 as instructed and waited.
His breath was steady, but his mind was not. He couldn’t feel Obi-Wan through their bond – he knew it was probably Vokara´s work, but it felt strange – hollow. Like a missing limb that ache in the quiet.
But something in him refused to believe it was gone completely.
He clung to that.
To hope.
To Obi-Wan.
The minutes crawled. 6:13. 6:20. 6:41.
He meditated, focused on the Force – for now it was his biggest ally.
At 7:00, Sanitra will bring Obi-Wan to the mental wing.
Unless someone stopped her first.
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Medbay
It was almost seven p.m., time to leave to mental wing. Vokara was concerned because Obi-Wan´s fever had not broken but rose to 40°C, his skin was flushed and every breath he took was a shallow rasp. But there was no time left, Qui-Gon will have to manage it alone, she at least pressed a cool cloth to his forehead as they settled him onto the gurney.
“Did you prepare all they will need”? Tahlira asked full of worry.
“Yes, I did……” Vokara wanted to say more, but Sanitra entered the room.
“Don’t worry, healer Che, he will have a good care in mental wing”, Sanitra reassured her. “I will make sure his fever will be reduced, once we make it there”.
Vokara nodded.
It was time to go.
Sanitra and her two assistants went first, Tahlira and Vokara behind them pushed the gurney.
It was 6:55.
The elevator stopped at floor -5. The hangar bay was empty, medships stood motionless in a shadow, the group moved to another elevator, which should take them to mental wing and Obi-Wan will be officially Sanitra’s patient.
Vokara pushed the gurney, she made eye contact with Tahlira, they were prepared….
In the shadow beneath the medship, Qui-Gon exhaled.
Five. Four. Three. Two. One.
He moved, igniting his lightsaber.
Fast, precise. He was now behind Vokara and he struck as she told him to – not hard enough to maim, but enough to cause visible injury.
The blade seared into the back of her thigh. She cried out, collapsing onto the hangar floor, screaming louder than necessary.
The two assistants and Sanitra turned, but Qui-Gon expected it and with a snap of his hand and the Force he surged outward – a wave, clean and brutal send them all backward into the wall, crashing with a sharp gasp.
Tahlira tried to stop him, but he attacked her too, leaving burn in her upper arm. She collapsed on the floor and when she saw Sanitra reaching to press the alarm, she yelled, asking for help.
Concerned Sanitra run to her to check her injured arm.
Qui-Gon run to gurney where Obi-Wan stirred weakly, fever-glazed eyes opened just a sliver.
“….Master?”
“I’ve got you.” Qui-Gon said, voice low. Fierce. “Hold on”.
One of the assistants pressed the alarm and it began to wail.
They had only few minutes to make it.
Qui-Gon opened the ramp of the medship MDX-7 and started running cradling Obi-Wan against his chest.
Vokara kept her promise and prepared the ship well, Qui-Gon eased Obi-Wan on co-pilot seat, and once he sat on the pilot seat, the ship sensed him and the piloting panel flashed green.
Qui-Gon waste no more time and manoeuvred the ship out of the hangar bay – and when he did, the security gates slammed shut behind them.
Once in orbit, he took Obi-Wan to the medical room and eased him on the small cot to check his vitals. Obi-Wan was sweat soaked but stable – at least for now.
As Vokara promised, Qui-Gon found all instructions in co-pilot panel. Secured comm unit in case he would need to reach her and documents – instructions with new destination and new ID:
DESTINATION: Miren Rest Clinic, Planet Nevaris/doctor Lang, nurse Meera
PATIENT ID: Juno Kestel
FATHER ID: Hal Kestel
Profile: Retired Chaldarian diplomat and his son, who is recovering from offworld accident.
He stared at the names for a moment, Juno and Hal Kestel´s, father and son.
They were fugitives but had a purpose and a place to stay – far away from Coruscant, far away from the Temple.
Quietly he looked at Obi-Wan, “We are safe, just hold on”.
Chapter 18
Summary:
In this chapter I focused on Anakin and Mace. Anakin made a mistake during his first mission and later he has to face the bad new about Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan. He is upset and Mace stands up for him. Yoda realise they made a big mistake. Palpatine is a great actor:-)
Notes:
Im posting it a day earlier, I hope it is OK:-)
Chapter Text
Mace and Anakin´s mission to planet Velmoris – status – simple/negotiations
The mission started simply, it was supposed to be simple – negotiation between the diplomat delegation and the leaders of Velmoris. It was about keeping a peace in one problematic part of the planet and Mace with Anakin were here to listen to both sides and help to sign up the agreements. Four days were about calm discussions, respectful debates and careful progress. It was peaceful if a little slow.
And that was a problem, leader Estan lost his patience and hired two mercenaries, who took Devon a nine-year-old son of one of the diplomats named Dix, Estan hoped for faster solutions and maybe better result for him.
Now the two mercenaries were fleeing Devon to vessel and Anakin didn’t wait, he was right behind them.
“Anakin”, Mace shouted, “wait, listen”. But Anakin didn’t even turn, determined to save Devon.
He felt Mace trying to reach him through their bond, “Master, I can manage it, trust me”, Anakin answered through it. He was almost by the vessel.
Up ahead, the mercenaries dashed up the ramp of their ship and it started closing. Anakin remembered – he saw it too clearly – how Qui-Gon had leapt aboard ship on Tatooine. He did the same.
Igniting his lighsaber mid-air, Anakin brought it down in a swift, controlled arc. The blade seared through the mercenary’s arm, forcing him to release Devon with a cry of pain.
The ship was rising – high, but not yet too high to jump.
“Devon, trust me”, Anakin said, his voice calm despite the wind whipping around them.
Devon nodded and took Anakin’s hand.
Anakin spotted a cluster of thick bushes below – dense enough to break their fall.
“Devon, I count to three, then we jump”, Anakin yelled to over shout the wind.
Devon´s eyes widened, and he held Anakin’s hand tighter.
“One, two……”, Anakin didn’t finish, the ship lurched – and stopped. An invisible force held them in place suspended mid-air.
A safety field.
Anakin gritted his teeth. Of course. The ship was probably controlled from the ground. That would explain, why Devon´s parents were so calm – they expected betrayal. They were prepared for it, and no one was getting off, because they were in control all the time.
When the ship landed Anakin and Devon walked out. Devon run to his parents and Anakin flushed, he now understood, why Mace told him to wait and listen.
But he didn’t.
The mercenaries were arrested within minutes. Devon was safe and unharmed.
Diplomat Dix praised Anakin for his bravery and other diplomats and even the guards too, but through it all, Anakin felt Mace´s eyes on him.
Disappointed. Quiet. Disapproving.
The words never come, but the message was clear.
Brave, yes.
But reckless.
The negotiations, remarkably, had survived the chaos. Agreements were signed. All was stable for now.
Anakin and Mace left after saying goodbye. Quiet and tense.
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In the evening their ship lifted off, the skyline of Velmoris fading behind them. Inside the Jedi transport, the silence stretched.
Mace studied Anakin briefly before he finally spoke, his voice measured but firm.
“Anakin you endangered the mission, and you endangered Devon too, which is worst. You acted on emotion, not reason”. Mace exhaled, “Even I told you to stop and listen”.
“I tried to save Devon”. Anakin said, but his voice sounded small.
“Anakin if the diplomat Dix hadn’t locked the ship remotely, you both could’ve died or be injured”, Mace replied firmly, “you didn’t listen to me, you didn’t think”.
“But diplomat Dix said I was brave, he said I saved Devon”, Anakin tried to argue his point.
“Yes, you were brave Anakin”, Mace sighted heavily, “but the point is you didn’t listen. It ended well this time, but next time, it can be all different. “I’m your Master Ani, responsible for your safety and wellbeing, you need to learn to trust and listen to me”.
“When we reach Coruscant”, Mace continued, “I want you to meditate on in and then, you’ll write an essay. One thousand words”.
Anakin blinked. “An essay”?
“On what it means to act with discipline, and what you’ve learned on Velmoris”, Mace said leaving no room to argue.
“But”….
“No “but”. You’re thirteen Anakin. You still have much to learn”. Mace tone finally softened slightly. “You are strong in the Force, but strength without control is dangerous”.
Anakin lowered his eyes, it was a first time he felt Mace was truly disappointed with him.
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Anakin walked to his bunk, his shoulders slumped, a faint scowl tugging at his face. He wasn’t just upset – he was sulking, and he knew it.
The words about writing the essay still echoed in his mind. Was Master Mace serious? He tried to save Devon and that had to count for something.
But Mace was his Master, and Anakin knew he will have to write it. For a first time since Mace took him as a padawan, he couldn’t help, but he thought what Qui-Gon would do. Would he be disappointed and tell him to write an essay too? Maybe they would talk about it, and Qui-Gon would understand!
With a heavy sight he sat down on the narrow bed, the weight of the day pressing against his chest.
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Mace kept his attention on the controls, the starts stretching into lines, as the ship jumped into hyperspace. Forty-eight hours until they reached Coruscant.
He took his commlink and a moment later, Depa Billaba’s voice come through it, calm but expectant.
“Master Windu how was the mission”? she asked.
“Mission is accomplished”, Mace said evenly. “We will be back on Coruscant within forty-eight hours”.
“Wery well”, Depa said content.
But she didn’t discontent as Mace expected, instead she continued, and her voice took on a more serious tone.
“Mace, there something I need to tell you”.
Mace paused, sensing the gravity in her voice.
“The negotiations between King Vorgan and the priestesses didn’t go as planned”, Depa sighted heavily, before continuing.
“It was Obi-Wan, he said he saw Grohl, and he run to the Senate, he was terrified and Qui-Gon took him to an infirmary, in the middle of negotiations, ignoring everyone. King Vorgan was mad and wanted to make it all public, we had to act, Qui-Gon was stripped of his Jedi ranks and casted out. Obi-Wan was to be relocated to the mental wing, but before he was moved there Qui-Gon broke in and took Kenobi with him, now they are gone”.
Mace swallowed hard, he didn’t need this kind of news right now, not after everything that happened on Nevaris.
“Mace, I know Anakin was close to them. You might want to talk to him before you get back to Coruscant. He will be taking this hard”.
When she finished, Mace closed his eyes. Qui-Gon was his friend, and he always respected Obi-Wan, this new was hard for him alone, he couldn’t imagine how it will affect Anakin.
How can he tell this to him? He wanted to meditate, to find clarity, but there was no time. He had to speak to Anakin before they will return to Coruscant!
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When Mace come into their shared bunk, Anakin rose quickly from his bed.
“Master Windu”, he said, “I was thinking about the mission, and you were right, I already know what the essay will be about”.
Mace looked at him briefly.
“I’m not here about the essay Ani”, he said quietly, “We need to talk”. He exhaled and sat down to the bed.
Anakin sat next to him. He knew at once, there was something else – heavier.
“Ani….” Mace voice was low, careful. “It’s about Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan”.
Anakin eyes widened – did Qui-Gon loose to King Vorgan, or Obi-Wan´s health worsened?
Mace continued, “The negotiations failed. King Vorgan threatened the Jedi council and Qui-Gon…..he’s been expelled from the Order”.
Anakin blinked, sure he’s misheard.
Mace´s gaze tightened. “And…he took Obi-Wan with him. They have left Anakin”.
Anakin just stared for a moment. The words seemed to hang in the air heavy and unreal, while to room suddenly felt too small, too quiet.
Expelled, gone. Qui-Gon wasn’t just another Jedi. He was a family. The closest thing Anakin had to a father in the Temple. He always tried to help him, always believed in him. And Obi-Wan, he was friend and later an older brother.
He could see them both in his mind – Qui-Gon calm smile and Obi-Wan´s dry jokes. He remembered days when they talked or repaired the small droids together.
He met Mace´s eyes.
“What do you mean expelled? “Why, what happened”?
Mace´s expression didn’t change, but his voice was heavier now.
“I don’t have all the information Ani, but Obi-Wan was probably scared and he interrupted the negotiations and Qui-Gon put his care first….despite the fact that the negotiations were at critical point. King Vorgan took it as an insult, he threatened the Jedis, and they had to act”.
Anakin winced, “So? Obi-Wan was sick. What was Qui-Gon supposed to do – leave him behind? Why was Qui-Gon punished like this, they could find other solution”!
Anakin voice was sharp, he was angry.
“They probably tried to fight for them Ani”, Mace said, trying to find the right words, “But king Vorgan threatened them, to make it public. We need to calm down and wait for more information. I promise I will find out what happened, once we reach Coruscant”.
“Will they return”? Anakin asked, his voice small, but there was a little hope.
“I can’t promise you this Anakin”, Mace said, his heart heavy.
Anakin nodded, feeling there was nothing he could do at this moment, but he couldn’t imagine Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan hiding from Jedi. He once believed Jedis were immortal, and they made no mistake. It was all shattered now.
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It took some time, but Mace finally managed to calm down Anakin a little, before they landed on Coruscant.
But when their transport docked at the Temple, Anakin didn’t wait for anything and the moment the ramp touched the floor, he bolted. His feet knew where to go – the infirmary room, where Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan had been staying. He needed to see they are truly gone.
He burst through the door.
The room was empty.
The beds stripped bare. The shelves were cleared. The room was disinfected, and it smelled like it, but when Anakin inhaled strongly, he still could smell the herbal tea Qui-Gon drank every day, but otherwise there was nothing left of them.
He stood there, frozen, until a gentle voice broke the silence.
“Anakin, what are you doing there”?
He turned to see Vokara, standing in a doorway. She studied Anakin for a while and could feel how devastated he was. She wished she could explain all what happen, but it must stay secret, at least for now.
Vokara come closer to Anakin and gave him small present, nicely wrapped. Obi-Wan left it on the nightstand, without much explanation, but she knew it was meant to be present after Anakin will return from his first mission. She knew what to say.
“Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan wanted to give you this”, she smiled and handed the present to Anakin.
“Thank you, healer Che”, Anakin said politely and carefully unwrapped the gift.
It was a journal and the pages were blank, expects for the very first one.
Anakin recognized Qui-Gon deliberate handwriting:
May the Force be with you, Anakin. Always trust in it.
Beneath it, in smaller, neater script, Obi-Wan had written:
For writing all your adventures, Ani. May the Force be with you.
Anakin’s vision blurred. He closed the journal, holding it tightly against his chest as if it could anchor him. But the room felt colder now, emptier than before.
He heard footsteps and the door opened, this time it was his Master Mace standing in a doorway, watching him for a moment.
“Anakin, I know this hurts. But the Force is with you and so am I”.
Anakin run to him and for a first time he hugged his Master. Mace hesitated briefly, then hugged Anakin back.
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Council chambers
It was late afternoon, Anakin rested in his room while Mace stood before the High Council.
“…and the mission was completed successfully”, He finished the mission report.
From her seat, Mistress Simone met her gaze with him, “you call it success? It seems like your padawan endangered the little boy and he disrespected you. How do you want to solve this”?
“I talked to him, explained and he has to write an essay”, Mace exhaled heavily, “I believe this is enough, considering the news he received……”
Depa Billaba nodded in agreement, “How Anakin took the new”? She asked concerned.
“Not well”, Mace said sincerely, “He was closed to Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan”.
“You allowed this closeness”, Mistress Simone reminded him sharply.
Mace looked around the Council, not long time ago he was a member too, now he stood in the middle defending his padawan.
“I didn’t allow anything, he was close to Qui-Gon from the beginning”, Mace snapped back. “And for the mission, Anakin acted because he cared about the people we were there to listen and protect. Despite his unconventional choices, no one was harmed. He is young – still learning. The essay will be enough, I will not punish him any further”!
Yoda finally took a word too. He agreed with Mace – an essay will be enough, then he went on to explain what happened between Qui-Gon and King Vorgan.
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Anakin tried to rest, but sitting in his room felt impossible, he needed a fresh air, so he left the apartment and run….Faster and faster, until the Temple gates were behind him. He didn’t care where he was going –he wanted to be alone, at least for a while.
By the time he stopped, his breath ragged, the sun was dipping low over the Senate district, he turned to check if he could see the Temple from there, but he bumped into someone.
Chancellor Palpatine.
“I’m sorry, Chancellor Palpatine”, Anakin said, his cheeks flushed.
Palpatine smiled, “Young Skywalker, what are you doing there? You seem troubled”.
Anakin hesitated, he didn’t know if he should tell Chancellor about his struggles, perhaps he should leave and meditate.
“You´ve learned about what happened between Qui-Gon and King Vorgan, am I correct”? Palpatine asked with concern.
Anakin’s throat tightened, “Yes, I just find out, we returned from a mission, and they are gone”.
Palpatine’s voice softened when he invited Anakin to sit with him for a while to tell him what had happened.
“It’s not fair”, Anakin said quietly, when he finally explained all he knew, “They were good Jedi. The best, and the Council punished them both”.
Palpatine agreed, “Yes Anakin, I understand how you feel. The Jedi….they can be so rigid. Blind to what really matters, instead of investigating what was behind, they let them go”.
Anakin frowned slightly, unsure what to say.
Palpatine smiled at him faintly, “You are right to grieve them, my boy. Jedi made a mistake, but they cannot see it. If you ever need to talk to someone, you are always welcomed”.
Anakin nodded and smiled back, “Thank you, Chancelor Palpatine, I will keep this in mind”.
After saying goodbye, Anakin run back to the Temple.
Palpatine watched him and smiled, he could feel Anakin trusted him, and now when Jinn and Kenobi were gone, nothing and nobody was in his way.
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The Council chamber was now empty, expect for Mace Windu and Master Yoda, who remained in his seat, his eyes following Mace as he turned to leave.
“Speak we must, Master Windu”, Yoda said.
Mace stopped, then stepped closer, “Master Yoda, I cannot believe Council stripped Qui-Gon his ranks, expelled him and wanted to severe his bond with Obi-Wan”, he looked into Yoda’s eyes, “It looks like you simply sacrificed them both….”
Yoda’s gaze hardened, “Strict your judgement is, stubborn you become, like Qui-Gon you are”.
Mace´s jaw tighten, “Perhaps my words are harsh, but I can feel you never agreed with Qui-Gon being expelled. And yes Obi-Wan went through an ordeal, but he wasn’t unstable, perhaps you should listen to him, investigate the strange events, and fight for them both”.
Yoda closed his eyes, “Too late it is, Qui-Gon left. Vorgan still angry is and rewarded be any who bring Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan to him.
Mace exhaled sharply, “So we let our own people to be hunted? I can’t believe the Council will let this happen, there must be something we can do about it”.
“King Vorgan on Coruscant still is, talk to him we will. Chancelor Palpatine his help promised”, Yoda said firmly, “Tomorrow, the meeting with them we have. Now your padawan you should find, need you he does”.
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Mace found Anakin in one of the meditation gardens, sitting on the edge of a stone bench. “Ani” he said, “we need to talk”.
Anakin didn’t move.
Mace sat beside him. “I can feel you are angry and confused and believe me, it wasn’t an easy decision, not even for the High Council”.
He put his hand on Anakin’s shoulder.
“I spoke to Yoda, we see what can be done for Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan, we will try to bring them back”.
Anakin smiled a little, he believed his Master, but Palpatine’s words about Jedi still echoed in his mind. He hoped Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan will return soon.
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The other day – afternoon
By afternoon hours, Yoda, Mace, Ki-Adi-Mundi and Shaak Ti were standing in the Chancellor’s office. Palpatine sat in his chair, his face a mask of concern, King Vorgan and Senator Thelar were there too.
“We are asking,” Mace said, his tone carefully even, “that the manhunt for Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi be halted. Qui-Gon was stripped of his ranks and expelled from the Order, it should be enough, they are not criminals. Pursuing them across the galaxy will only deepen this wound”.
King Vorgan´s jaw tightened. “Jinn made me look like a fool, I lost planet Velara and its now connected to Stellar unity. I was humiliated, ignored and I lost it all, you said Jinn will be punished, but he just run away with Kenobi, I want him to pay for what he did and how I do it, it’s not your business”.
Yoda’s ears twitched, “Ill young Kenobi is, bring them back we must, on emotions we all acted, corrected this must be”.
Palpatine stepped in, “Your Majesty”, he said politely, “Senator Thelar offered you a trade, you will not leave with empty hands”.
Shaak Ti spoke too, “We are pleading you King Vorgan, stop the hunt, otherwise the consequences of this could be grave”.
King Vorgan smirked, now he had the attention he wanted, and he already knew the trade will happen soon, “Ok then, after the trade deal is proceeds, I will stop the hunt”.
“King Vorgan”, Ki-Adi-Mundi said, “please, stop the hunt now, young Kenobi must come back and have a proper treatment”.
But King Vorgan already stood up from his chair, “I’m being very generous, the hunt will stop when the trade is signed up, this is my last word”.
Then he left without turning back, his guards followed him.
Palpatine sighted, “King Vorgan is stubborn, I will try to talk to him and see if I can convince him to change his mind”.
Yoda nodded, but decided to find his own solution, they cannot leave Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan in this alone.
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When Palpatine was alone, he no longer needed to hide behind the mask of a concern. The trade will happen, the fool King Vorgan deserved some consolation prize. But Palpatine knew the trade will be signed when the bounty hunters will chase Jinn and Kenobi so far away, they will never return.
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Yoda was alone and he lowered himself onto the central cushion, folded his hands, and let his eyes drift shut.
He felt the Force swirled around him – troubled, restless. Memory and regret pressed at he edges of his mind. The Council decision to strip Qui-Gon of his rank and to severe his bond with Obi-Wan felt now very wrong. It was a mistake and now bounty hunters will chase them from one corner of the galaxy to the other.
The Council made a bad decision – grave and growing graver. He didn’t trust King Vorgan nor the politics, he must find a way how to bring Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan back to the safety.
His breathing slowed, and Yoda let himself to sink into deeper meditation, the Force felt shadow at first, but then he saw what he needed, this could be the way, how to connect with Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan, if they still be willing to listen.
Yoda opened his eyes, a ghost of smile played at the corner at his mouth.
“Lean on this, I will”, he murmured, voice low, but certain.
After a long time, it didn’t feel like the Force had abandoned him.
Chapter 19
Summary:
Chapter 19 is done. This time its mostly about Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan.
Obi-Wan gets too ill and Qui-Gon has to act. Later they meet Doctor Lang and nurse Meera.
Notes:
Please let me know if the story goes well:-) and thank you so much for reading it and for all the kudos.
Chapter Text
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan heading to Nevaris
When Qui-Gon was certain no one was following them, he checked the instructions again: Planet Nevaris, Miren Rest Clinic, Doctor Lang and nurse Meera.
His new identity was Hal Kestel a retired Chaldarian diplomat and Obi-Wan was Juno Kestel – they were father and son now. Qui-Gon smiled – he liked it. He wished Obi-Wan didn’t have a fever – he would surely have been amused too.
He had been instructed to call Vokara as soon as possible, and to use the private comm she had prepared for him.
Her blue-tinged hologram flickered to life, “I’m glad you made it”, she said with a smile on her face, “how is Obi-Wan”? She asked concerned.
“He still has a fever – thirty-nine”, and his breathing is shallow”, Qui-Gon gently run his hand through Obi-Wan´s hair.
“I’m sorry”, Vokara said apologetically, “I wish there was other way how to keep your bond safe, the pill I gave him caused the fever. Now you must keep him cool and give him the antipyretic I prepared. Call me if it gets worst”.
Qui-Gon looked at her. She and Tahlira had help him and Obi-Wan so much, “Vokara, he said quietly, “I owe you. I’m sorry for the injury, it was the hardest part”.
“Don’t worry about it”, Vokara smiled at him, “By the way, someone wants to say goodbye”.
Tahlira image appeared, “When Obi-Wan is better, tell him I miss him, and how brave he is. Stay safe”.
“Thank you Tahlira”, Qui-Gon said his voice soft, “for everything”.
When the call was over, Qui-Gon returned his attention to Obi-Wan. Within two days he managed to bring the fever to thirty-eight point five. Obi-Wan grew a little more aware, his eyes opening for longer, though his strength was far from returning.
Qui-Gon checked the astrogation – ten days still lay between them and planet Nevaris.
He checked Obi-Wan as often as possible and he realised the fever lingered stubbornly, refusing to break for following 3 days no matter what he tried. Each hour that passed felt heavier and he knew something was very wrong. The Force whispered its unease, but offered no clear answer, and that unsettled him more than he cared to admit.
When he checked Obi-Wan´s temperature the next morning, it had climbed back to thirty-nine. His breathing was shallow, each inhale sounding thin and strained.
Qui-Gon quickly activated the private comm and called Vokara. Her hologram flickered into being, “Qui-Gon, what is wrong with Obi-Wan”?
“He still has a high fever, thirty-nine and his breathing is shallow. I tried to cool him, I gave him antipyretic, but nothing helped”.
“Check his oxygen level”, Vokara said concerned.
The reading was worse than she´d feared.
“I’m afraid it can be both sided pneumonia. How far are you from Nevaris”?
“Five or six days”, Qui-Gon said worried, “what else I can do for him”?
Vokara´s tone become very urgent. “Keep him upright – forty-five degrees at least”, she said, “give him the stronger antibiotic from the kit I prepared. Use the nebulizer every two hours and put him on breathing mask”.
Qui-Gon followed each instruction, his movements precise but tight with worry. They were still too far away from proper medical help!
Despite all Qui-Gon did, Obi-Wan was worsening before his eyes. His skin was pale and clammy, and each breath turned into a faint whistle, like air forced through a narrow tube.
When nothing helped, Qui-Gon contacted Vokara again, her hologram hovered nearby, voice steady, but eyes full of concern.
“Qui-Gon try….”
She didn’t have a chance to finish, she watched Obi-Wan had gone still in Qui-Gon´s arms.
“Vokara – he’s not breathing,” Qui-Gon´s voice sounded panicked.
Vokara´s eyes sharpened instantly.
“Qui-Gon, listen to me”, she said firmly, “Lay him flat. Tilt his head back and clear the airway. Check for any obstruction. If there’s nothing, start rescue breaths – two slow breaths, watch his chest rise. Then compressions – thirty, hard and fast. Keep the rhythm”.
Qui-Gon followed exactly as Vokara instructed him, his hands steady, but his heart broken.
“Come on Obi-Wan”, Qui-Gon murmured, voice low and urgent, “breathe”.
He kept going – another cycle. Then another.
Vokara was encouraging him, her voice crisp and controlled.
And then a faint shudder beneath Qui-Gon´s hands, followed by a wet, gasping inhale. Obi-Wan coughed harshly, instinctively trying to roll to his side. Qui-Gon shifted him carefully, supporting his head as Obi-Wan retched and fought for air. Each breath was ragged, but stronger than the last.
“Well done, Qui-Gon”, Vokara said softly, “You’ve got him back”.
“Thank you Vokara”, Qui-Gon whispered, holding Obi-Wan gently in his arms, “he is breathing, I have him”.
The following days Qui-Gon continued to care for Obi-Wan. He kept Obi-Wan cool with a sponge bath, dressed him in clean clothes, renewed the IV lines, and injected another dose of antibiotics and antipyretic.
He worked in silence, he hardly slept – if he felt tired and he was – he meditated, lightly, which gave some energy he so desperately needed. He found some ration bars and winced at the taste, but there was no time for proper meal – not now.
He counted every hour to Nevaris or simply held Obi-Wan´s hand, “You are safe”, he murmured softly though Obi-Wan was far too deep in sleep to hear. “We will come through this, I promise”.
When he sat on the bed, holding Obi-Wan´s hand he broomed over the Council´s decision, anger simmering in his chest.
Stripping him of his rank was one the thing – but the decision to severe his bond with Obi-Wan was unforgivable. That choice had nearly cost Obi-Wan his life.
Qui-Gon´s fists clenched, jaw tight with resolve. Never again. Not only they will never return to the Temple, but he will not allow Obi-Wan to be hurt again, no matter the cost.
1 day to Nevaris
There were only twenty-four hours from Nevaris now. Obi-Wan lay limp in his medbed, fever still burning through him.
Vokara had offered instructions over holo, as often as she could, but Qui-Gon knew it wasn’t enough. Obi-Wan needed professionals, and he could wait to reach Nevaris.
When they finally landed, Doctor Lang was already waiting, nurse Meera at his side. Under the cover of the night, they carried Obi-Wan swiftly to the medical facility.
Doctor Lang´s expression was serious as he examined Obi-Wan.
“It’s a pneumonia, and combined with asthma its really bad”, he explained firmly, but not unkindly, “We need to sedate him, then intubate him. This way we give him chance to heal properly”.
Qui-Gon nodded his eyes never leaving Obi-Wan.
The young man never stirred during the procedure and when it was done, he was moved to ICU, in lower floor.
The hiss of machines now filled the sterile room and Qui-Gon sat by Obi-Wan´s bed, holding his hand.
In the afternoon nurse Meera approached quietly but with purpose, arms folded at her chest as she regarded Qui-Gon who sat slumped in plasteel chair.
“Master Jinn, eh Kestel”, she said correcting herself.
Qui-Gon barely stirred, his eyes fixed on Obi-Wan´s pale face.
“You won’t help him sitting there like a statue, until you collapse”, Meera said firmly, leaving no room for argument. “You need a shower. Then food. Then sleep. And after that Doctor Lang wants to see your knee, we know you are in pain”.
Her words cut through the silent room like a healer´s scalpel – precise and impossible to ignore.
With a heavy sight, Qui-Gon yielded, following Meera´s instructions. He showered, trimmed his beard, ate and finally allowed himself a few hours of sleep, though his thoughts never strayed far from Obi-Wan.
Later in the afternoon, Doctor Lang checked his knee, fortunately, it didn’t need surgery, but a bandage and rest.
After dinner Qui-Gon managed to meditate and after a long time he felt the weight pressing his chest eased enough he could sleep peacefully.
Coruscant – training halls
Mace and Anakin were training. Anakin was fierce and relentless, but Mace pushed him hard, testing his limits. Sweat dripped, lightsabers clashed, muscles burned – but Anakin kept going, determined to show his Master, how much he had improved.
When the session finally ended, Anakin wiped his face with towel and looked through the window at the streets, and what he saw there shocked him deeply – a holoboard flashing, picture with Qui-Gon and Obi-wan on it – wanted, the reward offered was high.
Anakin’s chest tightened with sadness. He couldn’t stop thinking about Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan, but the thought that someone was hunting them and that the Jedi Council did little to stop it, hit him harder than any lightsaber duel ever could.
Maces sharp eyes caught the holoboard as well, he stepped closer to Anakin, placing steady hand on the boy´s shoulder.
“Anakin, I know it’s hard to see this”, he said quietly, “and believe me Council is trying to stop this, but king Vorgan is stubborn”.
Anakin only nodded, not trusting his voice to answer, but the sadness lingered. Mace gave him a reassuring squeeze and gently led him away.
Later in the afternoon, Mace he found Master Yoda deep in meditation and approached him respectfully.
“Master Yoda”, he began, voice low, “Me and Anakin saw the holoboards. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan, they are wanted….and the reward is high. We must do something about it, we can’t just wait”.
Yoda opened his eyes slowly, the weigh of the situation pressing down in his gaze. “Troubled this is, but solution I have. Now tell you I cannot”.
He looked at Mace, “Informed you will be soon”.
Planet Nevaris – 4 days later
Four days passed in tense silence. When Obi-Wan finally stirred, his eyes opened wide, fear flashing as he realised the tube in his mouth. He tried to pull it out instinctively, panic rising.
Qui-Gon was immediately at his side, voice calm but insistent. “Easy, Obi-Wan”, he said, catching his padawan´s hand, “You are safe, the tube is helping you to breath. That’s all”.
Obi-Wan´s breathing was shaky, but his Master´s steady presence gave him something to cling to, and he relaxed.
Doctor Lang finally removed the tube. Obi-Wan drew a deep, shaky breath, relieved as the foreign weight was gone.
Later, once he was steadier, Obi-Wan turned to Qui-Gon, “Where are we, what happened”? He asked weakly, but curiosity sparking his eyes.
Qui-Gon sat to his bed and recounted everything – what happened after he was casted out of the Temple, Vokaras help, Tahlira´s message, the escape, and finally how ill Obi-Wan was and he nearly lost him.
Obi-Wan listened, eyes widening at the drama.
When Qui-Gon finished, Obi-Wan let out a wry laugh. “So, I missed all the fun, huh. Not fair”.
Qui-Gon´s lips twitched with a faint but tired smile, “You could say that, but I would rather prefer you hadn’t been part of it”.
Jedi Temple – Vokaras office
Vokara sat in her chair and focused on Qui-Gon´s blue holopicture, “I’m glad Obi-Wan is getting better”, she said cheerfully, “If you ever return, I can hire you as a healer”.
Qui-Gon chuckled, “I leave it to professionals”.
After saying goodbye, Vokara switched it off, and stood up, when she heard knock on the door.
Master Yoda entered her office, calm, but purposeful.
“Busy are you, healer Che”? He asked, his ears twitching. “Secret, you keep, hm”?
Vokara watched him, recognizing the gentle pressure behind his words.
“Qui-Gon, you speak with. Careful, you must be, risk too much you did…but tell me, all right are they”?
Vokara sighted heavily, Yoda knew it….”Master Yoda” Vokara said carefully, “Qui-Gon is fine, Obi-Wan is recovering, but he is still very ill. Nobody must find out, they need time to recover”.
Yoda nodded, his eyes twinkling with quiet amusement, but worry too. “Clever, you are and trust me you can. One wish I have, next time with Qui-Gon talk I want. Our help they need”.
Vokara met Yoda’s eyes, “Master Yoda, I will keep this in mind, but Qui-Gon is upset, it will not be pleasant talk”.
Planet Nevaris – 14 days later
Two weeks passed, and Obi-Wan had grown strong enough to walk – first only around his room, then with Doctor Lang´s approval, into the small, private garden nearby. Obi-Wan welcomed the fresh air, that brought colour back to his cheeks.
Nurse Meera decided to keep an eye on Obi-Wan´s recovery as well as on Qui-Gon´s. She made sure Qui-Gon rested his knee instead of overworking it, and she gave special care to Obi-Wan. Since the day he´d woken, she had brought him home-cooked meals and to his embarrassment, she called him “sweetie”.
The first time Obi-Wan flushed scarlet and cast a helpless look toward Qui-Gon, but his Master only chuckled, “You deserve all the love you’re given”.
Obi-Wan rolled his eyes and muttered under his breath, half amused, half exasperated. “Liar. You are just happy, I’m the target instead of you”.
Qui-Gon truly smiled at him and his eyes softened with quiet relief at seeing Obi-Wan strong enough to tease again.
When Obi-Wan could walk better, it became their habit, to spend afternoons in the private garden.
Qui-Gon was mindful of Obi-Wan´s healing body and guided him around the garden carefully.
“Easy now”, Qui-Gon murmured, as he guided him on the stone bench. “Don’t push too fast. The healers and especially nurse Meera would have my head if you cracked something again”.
Obi-Wan managed a faint smile, though his breath was shallow from the effort. “Don’t tell me you, the Jedi maverick is scared of nurse Meera”, Obi-Wan teased, “But I must tell I’ve never met someone so….persistent”.
Qui-Gon chuckled. “Persisten….but kind”, he changed the tone from joking to more serious, “She’s kept us both alive these past weeks. And Doctor Lang – hes given more than duty requires”.
Obi-Wan nodded, thoughtful. “Yes, I know, and it feels strange, Master. To be cared for so personally. They don’t know us, and yet, they are so kind, we are not just patients, but people”.
Qui-Gon´s gaze softened. “That is kindness at its truest. And you’ve earned every bit of it, Obi-Wan”.
Obi-Wan nodded and leaned more into Qui-Gon´s arms. “If I will agree with you, promise me something – you won’t call me “sweatie”.
Qui-Gon only smiled, glad to hear lightness in Obi-Wan´s voice again.
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It was almost dinner time, so they decided to return to their room.
Obi-Wan walked slowly next to Qui-Gon, looking around the beautiful place, if he looked at west side, he could see the big city in distance. He always did it and today wasn’t different – and then he spotted it.
Huge holoboard flickering brightly – he saw their faces, and the reward beneath their names was very high.
Qui-Gon saw it too and his jaw tightened, a shadow over his calm, he held Obi-Wan strongly, as if trying to protect him even from the holoboard.
“They are hunting us”, Obi-Wan said quietly.
Qui-Gon gently squeezed Obi-Wan´s shoulder. “Obi-Wan we are not alone in this, Vokara is helping us, but we must leave. We can’t put those people in danger”.
Obi-Wan exhaled, steadying himself against the ache in his ribs. The warmth of the garden was gone now, replaced by the cold edge of reality.
They both knew – it was time to leave.
Chapter 20
Summary:
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan are on the run. Anakin is sad and Mace tries all he can to help him. Palpatine believes he won it all.
Notes:
Sorry for posting it so early, but Im heading to an end - only two more chapters are ahead. I need to finish it soon, because after summer holidays things will be busy.
Chapter Text
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan practically ran into they hospital room. Even though they had been alone in the private garden, when they walked through the hospital halls, they suddenly realized eyes on them.
Once back in their room, Qui-Gon contacted Vokara, and told her about the billboards.
“I know Qui-Gon”, she said gently. “I’m relocating you to a spa world – planet Weloria. You know, King Vorgan is still furious, and Council cannot do much about it, you will only be able to stay on Weloria for two weeks at best. Obi-Wan must take as much from it as he can. After the heart arrest, the asthma, and the pneumonia, he needs rest. You leave tonight, it will take 5 days to get to Weloria – once there you use the previous IDs – Hal and Juno Kestel. I will give you new ones soon”.
When the call ended Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan packed – it wasn’t difficult, since their belongings fit into two travel packs- Obi-Wan felt pang of sadness at leaving nurse Meera and Dr. Lang. They thanked them and Meera pressed a bag into their hands, filled with homemade food.
“You, Master Jinn”, she said firmly, “take care of your knee, don’t overdo it”, then she turned to Obi-Wan, “You are in the good hands sweetie, eat and rest as much as you can”.
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Back on their ship, Obi wan took one of the biscuits Meera had given him, his sadness plain.
“I had no time to thank Tahlira, and now we left people who were kind to us. Vorgan won’t stop, will he”? Obi-Wan sighted heavily, “the Council can’t stop him, is that right”?
Qui-Gon looked at him feeling his sadness, “No Obi-Wan, Council won’t stop it on time, we have to think about something else – we must vanish”.
Obi-Wan only nodded, Qui-Gon was right, they can’t run away forever, and they can’t return to the Temple either – they must vanish.
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Coruscant – Jedi Temple
Back at the Temple, Anakin trained, studied, and talked with his friends, but his Master could see the depth of his sadness – he still missed Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan too much.
“Anakin”, Mace said one evening quietly, “I have a small surprise for you”.
Curious, Anakin followed him into the dimly lit room. A blue holo flickered to life, and a familiar silhouette took shape.
Anakin’s heart skipped a beat, “Mom”, he yelled, eyes wide, rushing forward as if he could reach through the light.
“Ani”, Shmi smiled, that warm, familiar smile only a mother could give.
Anakin’s chest tightened at the sight of her.
“Master Windu arranged this talk”, Shmi said gently. “He told me how upset you are after Master Qui-Gon and his Padawan Obi-Wan had left”.
Anakin swallowed hard, he was surprised Mace contacted his mom, but he was grateful for it, and a mix of relief and sorrow washed over him. Seeing his mom again filled a longing he hadn’t realized was so deep, but when she mentioned Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan he knew he missed them just as deeply.
“Its true I missed them”, Ankin muttered sadly.
Then, he smiled and brightened a little, “Mom how are you, tell me everything”.
“Ani”, Shmi said softly, “I’m fine. Cliegg is so kind”
Anakin felt a surge of relief and joy, the tight knot of worry in his chest loosening a little and he told his mom everything, especially how much he missed Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan.
Shmi listened, then said gently, “Ani, I know how much you miss them, but you must appreciate what you have – your Master Windu is kind and cares for you. You have your friends and chance to become a Jedi. Don’t get longing for what’s gone blind you to the blessings right on front of you”.
Anakin nodded slowly, the truth of his mom´s words sinking in. He felt bittersweet – he was grateful for hearing his mom and for Mace who allowed it, and when the call ended, Anakin thanked Mace. His shoulders loosening and he smiled at him he seemed more relaxed and even relieved.
Seeing his mother had lifted his spirits, but it hadn’t erased the lingering doubts and worries he carried – he had doubts about the Council decision and he worried about Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan safety.
And there was something he couldn’t or didn’t want to address – and that nothing and nobody, could fully soothe.
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Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan arrived at the spa of Weloria. They signed in under the false identities of Hal and Juno Kestel and were immediately struck by the sheer luxury surrounding them. Soft golden light reflected off polished marble floor. Gentle fountains and fragrant gardens created an atmosphere of calm.
Their room was big and comfortable, but they hardly unpacked, knowing their time there was limited – very limited.
From the very first day, they arrived Qui-Gon practically forced Obi-Wan to relax. At first it was hard for them both, Obi-Wan fidgeted, restless even in the serene surroundings, but he gradually gave in.
He allowed himself to rest, he knew that they needed to be fit – ready for whatever awaited them after their brief respite.
Back on Coruscant
Anakin hesitated before he made his first visit to Chancelor Palpatine.
But Palpatine welcomed him with open arms and listened patiently as Anakin spoke, and his smooth, reassuring tone made the young boy feel understood.
Palpatine felt Anakin’s confusion, sadness but there was something else too – anger. Anakin didn’t say it aloud, he didn’t have to, Palpatine felt it clearly – when Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan left, Anakin felt betrayed and abandoned.
Palpatine watched him carefully, a faint, knowing smile playing at his lips – Anakin was full of doubt, and he needed approval.
“Anakin”, he said warmly, “What you feel about Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan isn’t wrong, Master Jinn promised to train you, but left you behind, without even leaving a message”. Palpatine’s voice was smooth as silk as he continued, “You have a great potential, but potential means little without someone who truly sees you – someone who believes in you”.
Anakin nodded and his chest ached. Master Windu did his best, but Anakin could never be open with him as he was with Chancelor Palpatine.
The memory of Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan stung – suddenly it felt that Master Jinn had chosen Obi-Wan over him, and he knew it was the hidden anger, and so, when Palpatine told him, he can trust him and come to him anytime, Anakin believed him. It felt like he found a new father figure.
Palpatine finally felt he had won.
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After fourteen days, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan departed the spa, both rested but reluctant to leave the peace behind. Vokara contacted them secretly again, providing new identities, new cover and new destination.
Planet Calthea, Dr. Debra Vey, and them Daric and Linn Veylans.
When they arrived Dr. Vey greeted them warmly but wasted no time and did a full-body scan to Obi-Wan. Now she was reading it, her expression grave.
“The truth is”, she began carefully, but firmly, “Two ribs on your left side are slightly dislocated – that was caused when you run from previous hospital not fully healed. Under normal circumstances I would recommend surgery immediately, but I understand your situation – you can’t hide there for this amount of time, it would be too risky. I will prepare list with a strict regimen for you, and you must follow it without fail”.
Later in the afternoon, she handed the datapad with exercise and diet to Qui-Gon and he carefully read it through.
Breathing exercises, to expand the lungs and ease strain. Physiotherapy, to guide the ribs back into alignment. Diet gentle to stomach and kidneys, that were once badly infected and under the stress they now lived in, the risk infection will return was high.
Dr. Vey looked at Obi-Wan and her gaze softened, but her voice was still firm, “Physical exercise won’t be painless, but defy it and you risk lasting damage – pain, that will follow you all your life”.
Obi-Wan swallowed hard, his jaw tightening – how they can follow it, if they can never stop in one place?
But Qui-Gon reached out, putting his arm on Obi-Wan´s shoulder. “Don’t worry Obi-Wan, we will follow it”, he promised quietly, “and we will find a place to hide”.
Dr. Vey watched them carefully, “You will stay here overnight, I will prepare all medicine you will need”.
When she left, Obi-Wan asked him quietly, “Do you know a place we can hide, Master”?
Qui-Gon smiled at him, “Yes Obi-Wan, I do. It is very distanced planet called Wil, nobody believe it really exists. It’s very tricky to get there, but it’s worth it – no cities, no people – only nature. Oceans, lakes, mountains and forests a world built for both, for healing and vanishing”.
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When they left the hospital with instructions from Dr. Vey, Qui-Gon opened a secure channel to Coruscant. Vokara´s image shimmered into view, her usually sharp features softened.
“I did all I could to help you, but now it’s just you and Obi-Wan, his life is in your hands now. Follow the schedule – do not falter and find a place to hide”.
Qui-Gon inclined his head. “I owe you Vokara, more then words. You’ve given us a second chance, you did more than anyone else”.
Vokara hesitated and nodded, “Qui-Gon, someone wants to talk to you”, she said quietly stepping aside.
Another figure appeared, small and ancient, eyes luminous in the blue of the holo.
“Qui-Gon” Yoda said, voice heavy with sorrow, “miss you I did. Back to Order you and Obi-Wan must return”.
Qui-Gon bowed his head but did not yield. “Master Yoda we will never return, Obi-Wan went through so much and he must live, but Coruscant is no longer safe”.
Yoda watched him, “A vision you had”, he said meeting Qui-Gon´s eyes, “Stubborn you are, but understand I do”, his voice become more urgent, “In touch you stay, need you and Obi-Wan we might will”.
Qui-Gon nodded, “I promise Master Yoda, I won’t sever the ties with you and Vokara, and when the times come you can reach out to me”.
Yoda closed his eyes and nodded – uncertain the future was.
Vokara leaned back into wiev, relieve flickering across her features, “Let us know you both still breath Master Jinn”.
The transmission ended and Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon were alone again, but their plan was clear. They will get all they need to survive on planet Wil, and then, they will vanish – and become ghosts of the galaxy.
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Coruscant
In the shadow of his private chambers, Palpatine watched holoprojector lingering in blue, forming the hooded silhouette of Grohl.
“You still know where Jinn and Kenobi are”? Palpatine asked, voice smooth but somehow nervous.
Grohl nodded a cruel smile tugging at his lips. “Of course, my lord, they are cautious, careful, but not invisible. I know where they are heading, what do you want me to do next”?
Palpatine’s eyes glinted, though the hood hid most of his expression. Jinn was dangerous, yes, but Kenobi too, he was persistent and Palpatine felt he can change the future if he stays alive.
“Kill them, both”, he said, his voice quiet, low.
Grohl’s grin widened, predator´s teeth flashing in blue light. “It will be done my lord. All to your satisfaction”.
After the call ended, he turned to his henchmen “You hear it, do your job well, you get you reward. Jinn and Kenobi must die. No capture and no mercy”.
Chapter 21
Summary:
Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon are on the run and there really isnt much time for them to rest so they rely at each other while Grohl and his men are chasing them across the galaxy.
Notes:
Im posting a bit earlier, even I believe one chapter per week is better:-) But I must finish the story before summer holiedays are over. It has 23 chapters and I will post them all within a few days, because things are about to get really busy and there wont be much time. I hate unfinished stories, so I want to make sure this one reaches the end.
Chapter Text
Obi-Wan sat hunched in the co-pilot´s seat, the glow of the astromap painting his face in shifting shades of red. His fingers traced the route across the starfield until he froze on a highlighted world.
“There, Master,” he said, voice raspy from lack off sleep. “Planet Cindralis, its enormous – wealthy, full of luxury districts – but the streets are lined with markets and small inns. We have enough credits, so we can blend in, and we can bargain for what we need without raising suspicion.”
Qui-Gon leaned closer, studying the projection. He met Obi-Wan´s eyes and gave approving nod, then smiled. “Seems like a plan Obi-Wan – Cindralis it is. We search the street markets and find cover in the noise.”
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When they landed, Qui-Gon led them to a small, worn-down hotel tucked in one busy street near the huge market. The lobby smelled faintly of spice and dust, the walls were stained with years of neglected.
The old man behind the counter barely looked up, when they signed in. A half-chewed cigar hung from the corner of his mouth, ash spilling onto his unbuttoned shirt. He chuckled at the silly holo-comedy flickering on the set behind him, his eyes never actually leaving it.
For Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan, that indifference was blessing, anonymity in plain sight.
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Once inside their cramped room, Qui-Gon quickly moved to the window, pulling the faded curtains shut, while Obi-Wan collapsed on the bed, that to his surprise was clean and cosy, so he closed his eyes and listened the city’s noise, muffled hum behind the thin walls.
Later, they ate vanilla biscuits Meera had packed for them and then took turns in the small shower corner, washing away the dust of travel. When it was all done, Qui-Gon unrolled a simple mat across the floor, his expression leaving little room for debate.
“Come on Obi”, he said quietly, “Time for physio”.
Obi-Wan gave reluctant grin, “You really took Dr. Vey words to the heart”, he sighted dramatically and lowered himself onto the mat, lying flat on his back.
When Qui-Gon guided his arms upward, Obi-Wan winced, then chuckled, “One day, I will repay this kindness, you know”.
“I look forward to it”, Qui-Gon replied evenly, thought his eyes glimmered with quiet amusement.
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Grohl landed on Cindralis too and now stalked the district with his mercenaries like a predator, his heavy boots crunching in the sand. He knew somewhere amid the maze of alleys, houses and hotels, Jinn and Kenobi were hiding. He didn’t know which door yet, but that didn’t trouble him.
He had time and there was no rush.
He could wait.
The thrill wasn’t in the strike but in the hunt itself, and Grohl enjoyed it whole, he knew Qui-Gon was strong, but Obi-Wan was ill, wounded and that wakened Jinn, he couldn’t run fast, they will need time to rest, and this was exactly what Grohl needed.
Leaning against a shadowed wall, Grohl let a cruel smile creep across his scarred face. The city was huge, chaotic, but he was still, patient. Aware of what every hunter knew: the pray eventually made a mistake.
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Corustant
King Vorgan finally departed Coruscant, satisfied with the fortune he had secured there and no longer interested in to chase Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan across the galaxy. The business deal was done, and in his mind, that was enough.
After saying goodbye to Chancelor Palpatine and Senator Thelar, he ordered to switch off the holoboards with reward for Jinn and Kenobi.
Palpatine delivered the news to the Jedi Council, pleased for them, but once he left, he allowed himself a thin smile. How simple it was. He used Vorgan to make the hunt official, while Grohl waited till Jinn and Kenobi will be so far away from Coruscant, he could kill them without raising suspition.
Vorgan thought himself clever and sovereign dealing in power and wealth – yet in truth, he had been nothing more than a clown puppet dancing to strings he could not see.
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Planet Cindralis
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan sat together over a datapad, drafting a long list of what they would need do disappear – supplies, spare parts, food, water, medicine, clothes but also planks, concrete and basic construction materials for whatever shelter they might need to build. They thought carefully about every item as it was important if they wanted to vanish and survive unseen.
They no longer looked anything like Jedi. Obi-Wan wore a simple blue hoddie and loose brown trousers, he still shaved, but his hair had grown longer and unkempt. Qui-Gon pulled on a plain brown sweatshirt and dark tracksuit pants, his hair tied back into a ponytail.
They blended easily among the travellers and shoppers – just another pair of weary men shopping for whatever they need.
They split the tasks between them, moving carefully through the crowded market streets. Obi-Wan bartered for food, ration packs and medical supplies, his shaved face hidden in a hoodie. Qui-Gon haggled for tools and water filters, his clothes and ponytail marking him as nothing more than a customer.
By the time the sun dipped low, they put all the shopping into their ship and returned to the hotel, tired, but closer to their target.
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The next day, before they left the hotel room in the morning to split as usual, Obi-Wan asked Qui-Gon quietly.
“Master, I feel, this isn’t just King Vorgan who is a threat to us, I feel someone else presence too – more dangerous”, Obi-Wan said quietly.
“You are right Obi-Wan”, Qui-Gon agreed, “I feel it too, that’s why I’m so careful and the reason why we must vanish. We leave by tomorrow morning”.
Outside they split, leaving opposite directions, but connected by the Force bond.
Among the endless stalls, Obi-Wan´s eyes caught small datapad novel, worn but intact. He remembered Qui-Gon once talked about this story from Outer Rim and without a hesitation Obi-Wan paid for it, then put it into his backpack. It wasn’t food, or medicine or anything they truly needed. But to know this novel will make Qui-Gon smile, felt just as necessary as the rest.
Obi-Wan felt good, relaxed and he walked to the next stand to buy some fruit, as he looked for the kind, he liked a hand caught his gaze. Broad, scarred – and bearing heavy yellow ring he knew too well. Memory flashed like a blade: that some ring dug into his skin while he was pinned, helpless, tortured. His stomach lurched – Grohl.
He hadn’t noticed him yet, so Obi-Wan began to edge backwards, legs trembling, heart pounding as he tried to melt into the flow of marketgoers.
A hand suddenly clamped over his mouth. His eyes went wide, panic flaring – until he heard familiar voice whispering into his ear.
“Calm down Obi,” Qui-Gon murmured, steady and low. “I felt it, they’ve found us. We must leave”.
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They hurried back to their hotel. The old man at the front desk barely looked at them, as he focused on the flickering holo-screen again. He was laughing so hard at the crude comedy that he choked on the beer he was drinking.
Once back in their room, they tore through their belongings, stuffing everything into their bags with no sense of order. Obi-Wan shoved inhaler into his lips, drawing in the healing mist – his breath ragged and shallow.
“Easy”, Qui-Gon said, concerned, checking Obi-Wan face for color.
Obi-Wan looked him, “I’m fine”, he said quickly, “Where do we go now”?
“Planet Marena”, Qui-Gon said his voice tight with urgency. “They haven’t spotted us yet, we must go”.
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Only few minutes after they left, Grohl strode in with four henchmen at his back.
The old men at the desk, was now fully focused on a steaming plate of nerf stew. He swallowed it noisily, grunting with satisfaction and didn’t really care as the grease dripped down his chin.
“We are looking for those two guys”, Grohl said slamming holopic on the counter. “Seen them”?
The old man winced and wiped his mouth with his sleeve, “Room thirty-four,” he said with a chuckle. “But I tell you, you won’t find them there, they left – faster than my ex-wife after I lost our house in a gambling game”.
Grohl’s eyes narrowed. His men exchanged looks, uncertain if they should laugh or start tearing the place apart.
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Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon slipped into their ship unnoticed, engines humming to life as they cleared the spot. They felt relieved, but they knew it’s only a question of time till Grohl finds them again.
They were right – Grohl was no fool. He and his men spread through the crowded spaceport, flashing the image of Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan to merchants, loaders and dock workers. It didn’t take long. A refueler pointed toward and empty spot.
“They left a few minutes ago”, he said.
“Destination”, Grohl asked with voice low.
“The info says – planet Marena”.
A cold smile spread across Grohl’s face. He didn’t even need to glance at his men, they were already moving. Within moments their ship was in the air – destination Marena.
Grohl knew the hunt hadn’t ended. It had only sharpened.
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When they reached Marena, Qui-Gon parked their ship in the emerald forests, not wanting to risk public place. As they walked the dusty path toward the town, Qui-Gon made another decision.
“We can’t risk normal hotel, they will find us there quickly”, Qui-Gon murmured as they finally stood at the busy central square. Suddenly his eyes landed on a pale stone building, draped with flowers and lanterns – The Honeymoon hotel.
Obi-Wan stopped his tracks, blinking. “Qui-Gon, you are not serious, we can’t….”
But Qui-Gon was already steering him forward with a hand on his shoulder. “It’s a perfect choice, last place Grohl will search for us. Just play along”.
Inside Qui-Gon calmly signed them in. Obi-Wan flushed scarlet, but the lady behind the desk smiled at them warmly. “Welcome in our place, enjoy your stay”.
“Thank you”, Qui-Gon said smoothly, his hand around Obi-Wan´s shoulder.
As they made their way upstairs, Obi-Wan muttered under his breath, face pink, “If you don’t let go of me Master, I might forget we are only pretending.”
Qui-Gon´s lips curved in a faintest smile. “That’s the idea”.
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Once behind the closed door, the playful act dropped. Qui-Gon guided Obi-Wan to sit on the bed, checking his condition.
Breathing, fever, blood pressure.
“You feel warm, blood pressure is too low”, Qui-Gon murmured.
“I’ve been running”.
“You need rest Obi-Wan”.
“You sound like healer Vokara”, Obi-Wan grinned.
Qui-Gon looked at Obi-Wan and sighted, “I’m keeping you alive”.
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Lunch arrived on a silver tray – far too rich and sweet for either of them, but they ate it, grateful for food and rest. They shared shower, and Obi-Wan joked it was becoming a routine.
Qui-Gon pulled on clean t-shirt, then said firmly, “We need more food, water filters, replacement tools and a medicine for your lungs”.
Obi-Wan stood up, reaching for his hoodie, “So we split again, it will be faster”.
But Qui-Gon shook his head firmly, “No, you are not going with me, you have fever, and you need rest, I mean it”.
“It’s not a fever but mild temperature and I rested enough”, Obi-Wan snapped back, grabbing a backpack. “I can bargain better then you anyway”.
“Enough” Qui-Gon said, more sharply than he meant. He softened his tone. “You’ve done enough Obi-Wan, stay here and rest, I will be back soon”.
Obi-Wan opened his mouth to protest again, but Qui-Gon reached out and placed his hand on Obi-Wan´s forehead. His voice dropped low and resonant with the Force.
“Sleep Obi-Wan. You need it, trust me”.
The fight drained from Obi-Wan, his eyelids fluttered, and he went limp. Qui-Gon caught him and carried him to the bed. Half asleep Obi-Wan muttered, “I will…pay you back for this….Qui…”
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Qui-Gon moved through the marketplace like a shadow. Even burdened with bags of supplies, his stride was fluid, his presence carefully muted in the Force. When it was too much to carry, he walked to their hidden ship and carefully put it into the shelves. He repeated it several times, always making sure, nobody followed him. By the late afternoon, he had everything they needed, food, tools, planks, clothing, filters and even spare parts for their ship.
The last thing he needed was medicine for Obi-Wan, he walked to a narrow apothecary at the edge of the district, but not very far from their place. When he finally walked out with the medicine in his hand, relief flickered through him as he turned back toward the hotel, steps quickening.
But as he neared the street corner, his pulse stilled. Across the way, he saw Grohl, and his men stood beneath the lantern light, speaking with the clerk of the neighbouring hotel.
Qui-Gon had no doubt Grohl will search the Honeymoon hotel too, he slipped into the shadows, heart tightening.
They must, leave – again.
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When Qui-Gon slipped quietly back into their room, he found Obi-Wan awake, sitting in bed.
Obi-Wan wanted to remind Qui-Gon about the sleep suggestion he used on him earlier, but when he saw his face, he knew it – Grohl found them.
“We are leaving, right”? Obi-Wan asked quietly, but stood up and grabbed his backpack, “I’m ready”.
Qui-Gon crossed to him in two strides, laying a broad hand on his forehead and winced, “You still feel warm Obi”.
Obi-Wan caught his hand and squeezed it, “Then I will sweat it out while we run, let’s go”.
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Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were at the first floor ready to leave, when they spotted Grohl in a lobby, scanning it like an eagle, his men fanning out behind him.
“He is here”, Qui-Gon whispered, and they turned back, knowing they must find other entrance.
When they reached the stairs to the second floor, they’ve heard the door to their room being kicked open.
“Not here”, Grohl snapped, then commanded, “Search second floor”.
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan run through narrow hall, avoiding the rooms, where they felt guests inside.
“This one”, Qui-Gon Force opened the very last empty room and pulled Obi-Wan inside.
They opened the window, planning to use it as an escape, but they saw Grohl’s men outside. Qui-Gon wanted to avoid direct fight – not wanting to endanger hotel guests, and he was worried about Obi-Wan too.
He searched the room, looking for other option – then he spotted rusted maintenance chute and yawned it open.
“This way”, he urged.
Obi-Wan swallowed hard but nodded, lowering himself first, Qui-Gon followed, the chute rattled as they slid into the dark.
Qui-Gon thought they made without being seen, but one of the Grohl’s men heard the noise.
“Grohl”, he yelled, “They’re in the chute”.
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Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan burst into the night air, the shouts of Grohl’s hunters echoing behind them. The market streets were almost empty now, and Qui-Gon find a hiding spot in one empty stand, even he knew it was for a short time.
They’ve heard hunters spreading out, their boots slapping the stone, getting closer.
Obi-Wan breath was wet and whistling again, but Qui-Gon felt his fear too. It had to be terrifying for Obi-Wan to face Grohl who torment him for over a year.
He caught his arm, “Obi, listen”, he said his voice low and firm. “You run to the ship. I will draw them away and meet you after”.
Obi-Wan´s head snapped up, eyes wide, “No! I won’t leave you…”
“There´s no discussion”, Qui-Gon´s grip tightened, his tone leaving no room for argument. “You are ill, you won’t be able to run fast. The mission is to survive, do you understand”?
Obi-Wan nodded, his throat tight, chest heaving. “Master….”
Qui-Gon gently brushed his cheek – a gesture of reassurance. “Wait here Obi”, he said firmly. Then he moved outside, drawing the hunter´s eyes away from the stand where Obi-Wan was still hiding.
Chapter 22
Summary:
Qui-Gon gets in trouble, while Obi-Wan fights his own fear. There will be Grohl too. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan will have to make a decision.
Notes:
So, chapter 22 is finished and there is only one more chapter left. Its written already and I will post it on Tuesday:-)
It will be finished, as I promised.
Chapter Text
Obi-Wan made it to the ship, every breath he took was tearing through his chest like a fire. He collapsed on the bunk, shivering with fever and cold sweat. His vision swam and he buried his face into a pillow.
Fear gripped him, sharp and merciless. He knew he just didn’t fear for Qui-Gon, it was the deep festering terror he felt when he thought about Grohl.
He broke me, Obi-Wan thought bitterly, Grohl broke me.
He closed his eyes, forcing himself to breath through the pain he felt in his chest. He was a Jedi, perhaps not official, but he was, at least Qui-Gon reassured him about it as often as he could.
He reached for the Force, it was there, quiet, steady, waiting. Obi-Wan sank deeper in it – and then he felt it.
A flare of danger, raw and unmistakable – he knew immediately, Qui-Gon will need him.
Obi-Wan stood up, ignoring the pain in his body, “I will not hide, I’m a Jedi”.
He focused to the Force harder, and it led him to the closed shell at the wall opposite. He opened it with a soft hiss. Inside, wrapped in in cloth, was a training lightsaber, its hilt old, worn. Qui-Gon probably took it for training on planet Wil.
Obi-Wan´s hand trembled as he took it. The weight felt both – foreign and achingly familiar. He tightened the grip of the hilt and pulled hood over his head.
Despite the weakness and fear, despite the pain in his ribs and lungs Obi-Wan run into the dark forest.
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It was raining heavily now, every drop a drumbeat on leaves and mud. Mist curled low to the ground, and suddenly the air felt very cold.
Qui-Gon wasn’t far away from their ship, but something felt wrong, very wrong. He felt Grohl’s presence close, he took out his lightsaber, trying to let the Force navigate him.
Shadows moved around him and suddenly Qui-Gon felt sharp pain in his left arm, within a minute he couldn’t feel anything through the Force – suppressants, he realised immediately.
Grohl and his men emerged from the trees, circling him, and with an experienced move one of the men kicked the lightsaber from Qui-Gon´s hand and forced him to his knees. Then Qui-Gon saw Grohl who stepped forward, his eyes gleaming like predators in the storm light.
“Where’s the boy”, Grohl asked his voice gravel, flat and certain.
Qui-Gon said nothing. His jaw clenched, his expression calm – but his heart hammered. It cannot end like this; he looked around ready to fight with nothing but his hands if it comes to that.
Grohl stared at him, a cruel smile tugged at his mouth.
“You think silence protect him? May I ask why do you protect him so much anyway? He’s a wimp”, Grohl said cruelly, believing if he switches tactic, it might earn him answer, he wanted to know, “He begged for food, when I starved him, screamed when I broke his ribs or kept him in a hole. He’s broken. Tell me where he is, and we can end it together, I need a man like you I will pay you with gold”.
Qui-Gon´s knuckles went white at his sides, he felt grief, fury, but he forced it down, steadying himself in silence. Grohl was a monster, and Qui-Gon would do anything to protect Obi-Wan from him.
“Tell me where he is”, Grohl growled, “Last chance Jedi, either you tell where the boy is and you survive, or I will finish you here and hunt him down after”.
Qui-Gon didn’t answer, nothing he would say could make a difference.
Grohl’s laughter cut through the rain, low and mocking.
“So, you are stubborn. It doesn't matter”. He jerked his chin toward one of his hunters. “Ral – shoot him. In the leg. We will use him as a bait, and we will make sure he lives long enough to watch Kenobi die….and I will make sure the boy dies screaming”.
Ral grinned, raised his blaster, and aimed at Qui-Gon´s thigh. The trigger clicked….
But the bolt never landed.
A sharp crack-hiss split through the night. A flash of green light stopped the bolt mid-air, sparks scattering into the rain.
Then they all saw a silhouette of a man – hood clung to his face, strands of wet hair plastered to his forehead, chest heaving with laboured breath.
Obi-Wan.
Everything erupted into chaos.
“Shoot them”, Grohl barked at his men.
They didn’t wait but Obi-Wan´s blade clashed against their blasters, sparks hissing in a downpour. Qui-Gon spotted his lightsaber on the wet ground and rolled to it to grab it.
One of the hunters fell beneath Obi-Wan´s lightsaber, his scream drowned by thunder. Another fell when Qui-Gon blocked the bolt from a blaster which flown back and shot the man into his chest.
Obi-Wan successfully protected Qui-Gon from another bolt but slipped and fell on the wet ground.
Grohl saw it and acted, the yellow-ringed hand flashing as he took out a huge knife ready to use it. Qui-Gon saw it and stroke Grohl hard in the ribs, but the cruel man only laughed through the pain.
And then he run.
Grohl shoved past them, leaping onto a waiting speeder bike. The engines howled into life, spraying mud as the machine moved ahead.
“Obi – come”! Qui-Gon yelled running to another speeder, ignoring the sharp pain in his knee. They sprinted together, clambered to the speeder quickly.
The forest blurred around them, branches whipping at their faces, rain stinging their skin.
Grohl was ahead, fast, reckless, they couldn’t match his speed.
He was heading to the cliffs – the terrain there was unpredictable, but Grohl knew if he makes it through, he will reach his ship and disappear.
“Where is he going”? Obi-Wan yelled and held on Qui-Gon tighter as he spotted the ravine.
And then it happened. Grohl was fast and turned too sharply – the speeder skidded, lost balance, and tumbled. He was thrown over the ledge of a deep abyss.
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan leapt from their speeder, racing toward him. Grohl hung on the edge, mug giving away beneath his boots. His eyes wild in terror, darted to them as they approached.
“Tell us who sent you”, Qui-Gon shouted, rain pouring down his face. “It doesn’t have to end like this, speak his name”.
Grohl’s lips trembled, and it was now him who felt a pure fear. He shook his head violently. “You don’t get it do you”, he rasped. “If I die, it won’t end, there will be others hunting you”.
Few stones cracked beneath him. Obi-Wan reached out desperately with his hand. “Take it! Grohl, take my hand”.
Grohl’s gaze flicked to Obi-Wan – haunted, broken. A faint, bitter smile twisted his mouth. “He kills me if I speak, better the abyss then him”.
And with that, he let go.
Obi-Wan stood frozen, breathing fast, Qui-Gon laid a hand on his shoulder, “Its over Obi-Wan, Grohl chose his fear”.
But neither of them could shake the chill of Grohl’s last words.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
They returned to the place, where they fought – but it was empty, not even the bodies of the mercenaries could be found.
Qui-Gon felt the Force again, whatever Grohl gave him, was only temporary, he was probably meant to be death by now.
He felt no danger through the Force – all was calm again.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The rain showed no mercy; it soaked through Obi-Wan´s hoodie and plastered his hair to his pale face.
Qui-Gon turned to him, pride glowing through exhaustion. “You did it Obi-Wan, you saved me, and you faced your fear – you faced Grohl”.
Obi-Wan nodded, blinking rain from his lashes. His chest rattled with each breath, and he felt feverish, but there was something he needed to solve before returning to the ship.
Qui-Gon closed the distance between them, “Lets go back to the ship Obi, you need to change your clothes and rest”.
“No”, Obi-Wan said sharply, “I mean yes, we go to the ship, but we must return to Coruscant, to investigate, we must find who’s behind this all”.
Qui-Gon shook his head, “Didn’t you hear what Grohl said, if we return to Coruscant we will die. I cannot risk it, you must live”, Qui-Gon´s voice was firm, no room to argue.
Obi-Wan wiped the rain from his face, he was trembling heavily, but ignored it, “We are Jedis, since when we do fear death? Tell me Qui-Gon, why I must live”?
Qui-Gon sighted, the rain was too heavy now, Obi-Wan needed warm bed and dry clothes, but he couldn’t hide the truth from him forever.
“I had a vision, about the future, you are important Padawan Kenobi”, Qui-Gon tried to explain desperately. “The galaxy will need you”.
The young man frowned, confusion mingling with disbelief. “So that’s why you protect me so much? Because you had a vision, because galaxy will need me, otherwise you wouldn’t care”?
Qui-Gon grabbed Obi-Wan´s elbow, “You believe I care for you because of the vision”? He yelled. “Just listen to me Padawan, the day I found you, you were dirty, half starved, and you smelled like you’d slept in a trash compactor for moths. I didn’t know, if you make it alive to the ship nearby, I didn’t know if you make it through damn it, I don’t even remember how many surgeries you’ve had. But I chose you”.
Obi-Wan trembled, but Qui-Gon held his elbow firmly, “You lived in a wardrobe Obi-Wan”, Qui-Gon continued, his voice gentling, “you flinched at a shadow, you scream at night – but I chose you. And when your heart stopped, I pressed life back into your lungs, I was breathing for you Obi-Wan, not for a vision, but for you”.
Qui-Gon let go of Obi-Wan´s elbow and exhaled heavily.
“If you want to return to Coruscant to investigate, I will go with you, you can make your own decision, you are not my prisoner”.
The words struck Obi-Wan like blade through a fog, when he remembered how Qui-Gon held his hand, soothed him when he had a nightmare or was in pain after surgeries. He risked everything for him – saved him more than once. Obi-Wan´s lips parted, but no word come out – only the faint tremor of his shoulders as the truth settled over him.
“I’m sorry”, Obi-Wan whispered, not knowing what else to say to make it right.
Without a word, Qui-Gon reached forward and drew Obi-Wan into his arms. The younger man stiffened at first, startled, then sagged against him, all strength spent. Qui-Gon held him close, one broad hand braced against the back of his head, the other steady at his back.
“Qui-Gon felt how uncontrollably Obi-Wan trembled now, lips tingled blue.
“Let’s go back to the ship Obi-Wan, we will decide what we do later”, he said quietly. Obi-Wan finally agreed.
xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Inside the ship, the ramp sealed behind them, shutting out the storm and the cold air.
“Off with these”, Qui-Gon tugged at Obi-Wan soaked hoodie, already taking off his own wet clothes.
Obi-Wan´s teeth chattered, his breathing shallow and raspy, but a faint smile ghosted his lips. “I must look pathetic”, he whispered.
Qui-Gon chuckled, “We survived, that’s all that matters right now”.
Later they lay wrapped in warm blankets, shivering but safe, and for the first time after a long time they both allowed themselves to sleep without fear.
xxxxxxxxxxxxx
It was almost morning, when Ral dragged himself into the ship, leaving the dark smear of blood across the deck plating. How could it end up like this? Grohl was dead, two mercenaries too, others gone. And the Jedi….still alive.
He slumped into the chair, fumbling with trembling hands for the holoprojector. Grohl told him what to do, if the mission fails – he never truly believed it, but there he was, alone, injured and there was something he had to do! Inform the dark lord.
Ral swallowed hard and activated the holoprojector, which sparked to life, blue light flickering until the hooded figure appeared.
“M-my lord”, Ral said his mouth dry, “The mission is….Grohl is dead. The Jedi, they live, I barely made it out”.
The hooded figure tilted his head, studying him like one would a broken tool. “Disappointing”, Sidious said, voice low, “what happened”?
Ral swallowed hard, “We captured Jinn, but Kenobi appeared out of nowhere, and then….”. He didn’t finish.
“So, two Jedi, one of them injured overpowered whole Grohl’s team”? Sidious asked curious, his voice dangerously low.
“I-I can regroup, hire more men, find them again. Just give me time please”, Ral felt pure fear and hoped Sidious will be merciful.
“Are they still to be found”?
“No, my lord”, but I will search for them, I won’t stop, I promise….I…”
Sidious raised hand – a gesture that immediately stop Ral from talking any further. Sidious thought – he wanted Jinn and Kenobi dead, but they vanished. He knew how bad Kenobi’s condition was, it was very unlikely that they would return to Coruscant, not after all that happened.
“They are no threat for now. But you will be ready if they ever appear, you are in charge now and you will wait for my command. If they ever surface again….you will have your men ready. You will kill them. Both. Swiftly – no mistake then”.
Ral nodded quickly, forcing strength into his voice.
“Yes, my lord. I won’t fail”.
The hologram dissolved and Ral´s stomach twisted. He hadn’t asked for command, hadn’t wanted it. But now it was clear, the dark lord made him his servant and one more slip in the future and he will join Grohl in the abyss.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Qui-Gon woke up and he was surprised to hear the faint hum of the ship´s engines. For a moment, his memories of the previous night clung to him – blood, the chase, Grohl’s laughter – but now, the Force was quiet and calm.
The space beside him was empty – and he couldn’t see Obi-Wan anywhere.
Qui-Gon stood up and searched for him. The ship was on autopilot, starlight spilling across the controls.
He finally found Obi-Wan in the small kitchenette, sitting in a chair, wrapped in blankets, steaming mug in his hands, holopad on the table on front of him.
Qui-Gon smiled at him, “Good morning, Obi”, he said quietly and walked to him to check for fever – a habit he now did automatically, without much thinking about it. Obi-Wan´s skin was warm, but steady. Calm.
“You should be resting”, Qui-Gon said quietly.
Obi-Wan smiled back at him, eyes still heavy with fatigue. “I wanted to leave, it’s safer”.
Qui-Gon frowned. “And where are we going? Coruscant? Wil”?
Obi-Wan grinned at him, sly despite the shadows under his eyes. “Neither. Planet Eral”.
“What…”, Qui-Gon blinked in surprise.
“I did a research Master”, Obi-Wan said, his tone teasing, “They’ve got a massive apothecary there. You forgot your snoring pills”, he continued, wrapping the blankets around him tighter.
“I know, we only have one room on Wil, we’d better be prepared”.
For the first time in weeks, Qui-Gon laughed. The sound startled even him, he brushed a hand through Obi-Wan´s longer hair and let the warmth in his chest settle the terror of previous months.
Chapter 23
Summary:
Final solution, and surprisingly, it will be Vokara, who has the last and most important word.
Notes:
As I promised its finished. I hope you liked this story, I had it in mind for more than a year:-) I had a fun writing it, but like I said things are already busy. This is the reason I finished the story like this, all is solved, but in the future there will be Silenet trial ll, continuing 5 years later. It will be more focused on Padme and Anakin, but Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon will be there too and of course Palpatine, Mace, Yoda and others. But right now, I have to focus on my diploma work.
Thank you for your kudos and comments, it was very encouraging.
Chapter Text
Coruscant – Jedi Temple
The great training hall of Coruscant buzzed with voices, younglings and Padawans gathered for the competition.
This was a fourth day, younglings had their first winners, but Junior and Senior Padawans were still competing.
Anakin was now 14, Junior Padawan – he stood in the centre, chest rising with steady breaths, braid brushing his shoulders, as he bowed to his final opponent. He moved with certainty, lighsaber strikes sharp and precise. The hum of it rang in a steady rhythm – like a music – until, with a final disarm, the duel was over.
Anakin won – his name shone high, through all different categories. He grinned, wide and triumphant. Applause echoed. Anakin bowed politely, as trained, but his eyes gleamed with pride.
From the gallery above, Yoda’s ears twitched and he looked at Mace, “Strong, your apprentice is”, he murmured to him, “Wisely guide him, you must”.
Mace´s gaze never left Anakin, and he was calm almost unreadable, “I will”, he answered to Yoda with a faint smile.
Inside he wasn’t so calm, now when it was clear Qui-Gon will not return, he felt alone, he knew how special Anakin was and sometimes he quietly asked what Qui-Gon would do in his place.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Later they ate dinner at their quarters, Anakin sat across from Mace, the scent of simple stew rising between them.
“You did very well Anakin, I’m proud of you”, Mace said, tone in his voice leaving no room for doubt – he meant it.
“Thank you Master, you are training me well”, Anakin said politely, putting more food to his plate.
“Master, are you leaving for the mission tonight”?
“Yes Anakin”, Mace said. “The Council has called me to negotiate on Setal. It won´t take long and I assume it will be boring. Meanwhile, you should focus on your astrogation course”.
“I will”, Anakin smiled.
When Mace had left, Anakin lingered in the quiet hall. He thought of him – he wasn’t Qui-Gon, the father he once imagined, he wasn’t Obi-Wan – the older brother either.
He was something different. A friend. An anchor. The only thing that steadied him…..beside Palpatine.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan´s ship lifted gently from Eral´s spaceport, the cargo was much heavier than a few boxes with snoring pills would ever made it. Qui-Gon insisted on buying supplies that could make their life on Wil easier and more enjoyable – books, spare tunics, hologames, simple furniture, spare blankets and cushions.
For months, they were on run and lived from hand to mouth, but now, they could slow down and choose what they really wanted rather then needed.
And this freedom of choice struck Qui-Gon hard. All both had ever known were training halls in the Jedi Temple, sparring floors, missions, and the harsh rules of their Order.
Qui-Gon knew the Council made a mistake when they decided to severe his bond with Obi-Wan, but he also understood why, they protected the Order from public judgement and were cornered by King´s Vorgan threat to make it all public.
But Qui-Gon knew King Vorgan left Coruscant and was no longer a threat, if they would return, Qui-Gon was sure, they could make things right.
He looked at Obi-Wan who sat in a co-pilot seat, face shaved, hair untied, eyes tired but bright with that spark Qui-Gon had feared he never see again.
“Obi-Wan”, he said quietly, “I’m going to contact Master Yoda and Vokara, I’m sure you would like to hear what we will talk about and maybe make your own choice about where we will really go”.
Obi-Wan looked at him surprised, but nodded, hardly hiding his joy to hear Master Yoda and Vokara again.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The holoprojector flickered to life and Yoda with Vokara come to a view.
“Safe, you are”? Yoda asked slowly, voice weighted with concern.
Qui-Gon told him everything that happened, about the narrow escapes, hotels they stayed in, and how Grohl died.
“Hm, something else there was. Scary what Grohl said is, careful we must be”. He met his eyes with Qui-Gon, “Return to the Temple, perhaps you should. Protect Obi-Wan we will”.
Qui-Gon sighted, he wasn’t sure about their safety on Coruscant, but he wanted Obi-Wan to decide for himself.
“I would….” Obi-Wan started, but never had a chance to continue as Vokara suddenly stepped in.
“No way”, she said without hesitation and to everyone surprise. “Listen to me both of you, and with respect you too Master Yoda. The fact Obi-Wan is still breathing does not mean he is healed. His body has been running on sheer adrenaline. Once it burns away, you will see how badly he has been battered”.
Obi-Wan fidgeted in his seat, “Well, it seems like I’m more fragile, than I thought. If I wrap myself in blankets and wont move at all, will it help”? he grinned.
But Vokara didn’t smile and fixed her gaze on Obi-Wan, forcing him to meet her eyes.
“You think it’s a joke”? She barked. “Your lungs are weakened, you suffer asthma, you had pneumonia and a heart arrest, your ribs are dislocated and still mending, break them again and it will take twice as long to heal. The kidneys – you had a heavy infection when we brought you back, from…Grohl, under another stress the infection can occur again and tip your kidneys into failure which will kill you faster than any lightsaber. Your stomach is damaged after all those pills you used; you need diet and no stress. And your nervous system….”
Vokara hesitated, her tone dropping a little.
“Do you realize how much strain your brain has endured from fever, lack of oxygen and constant stress and fear? If you overdo it, if you get a blow to your head – you never come back to yourself at all”.
She folded her arms, gaze burning.
“I know you young Kenobi, you return, and you never rest, Council will assign you to a mission as soon as possible and you will ignore all my orders”.
She sighted heavily.
“The truth is, if you return, your body will crash. Bones, organs, lungs, even your mind – all will betray you, if you force yourself into a mission or a battle again, and I know you will – then I can promise you, you will not survive”.
The silence that followed was heavy.
Obi-Wan looked down, ashamed, shocked, his cheeks pale, he felt small. Qui-Gon wanted to hug him, or better – to shield him from the harsh words, but part of him knew – Obi-Wan needed to hear every one of them.
Vokara´s tone finally softened, “Obi-Wan, you can recover, but listen to me, you must give it time, follow the schedule, rest. You are young, your body is strong despite what its endured. It will mend – if you give it time, but you need to leave with Qui-Gon to the safety”.
She turned to Qui-Gon, “I know about the vision, Yoda told me all, if you want to protect him, do it away from the Temple”.
Yoda listened carefully, his big ears drooped lower, his luminous eyes troubled, “Grave words from Vokara we heard. Listen to her we should but stay in contact we will”.
Qui-Gon looked at Obi-Wan, who looked smaller and suddenly too tired.
“Qui-Gon will you go with me”? Obi-Wan asked almost inaudibly.
Qui-Gon place his hand on Obi-Wan´s shoulder, “Of course I will”. He nodded, not sure what else to say, to make Obi-Wan feel better.
Yoda’s gaze softened.
“Made the decision was. Close to the heart of Force, both of you are. In time, contact you I will. Alone you are not, Jedi you are”.
“Until the day comes, hidden you stay, heal Obi-Wan will”, Yoda added, “Galaxy the Council watches, but watch over each other you two must, important Obi-Wan is”.
After saying goodbye, the transmission cut off and Obi-Wan leaned back to his seat, drawing the blankets closer, still shocked and quiet.
Qui-Gon took his hand sat next to him, “Obi-Wan, you will heal, and then we will come back. I promise! I won’t leave you alone in this”.
Obi-Wan nodded and squeezed Qui-Gon´s hand tighter.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The voyage to planet Wil stretched into weeks – four weeks, with several jumps to lightspeed, but otherwise, it was uneventful – the cockpit was quiet expect for the hum of controls and engines. Obi-Wan sat quietly in the co-pilot chair. Vokara was right, the adrenaline was running off slowly, and he realized how fragile he was – he felt battered, his ribs, lungs, spine and stomach hurt, and he hated it.
Qui-Gon wasted no time and followed the schedule from Vokara and Dr. Vey strictly. He pushed Obi-Wan into breathing exercises, healing meditation and physio. He gave him breathing mask with bacta mist to ease the fire in his lungs and made him small but nutrient meals.
Though it was slow, the improvement was there – Obi-Wan´s eyes cleared, his voice normal, and some colour returned to his cheeks – but now they both knew, he was still miles away from real healing.
And they both feared what will happen after landing on Wil. Obi-Wan still had some adrenaline running through his system, and they still didn’t meet their target, but they will in a few days, then after everything will calm down, Obi-Wan will likely have a reaction – and Qui-Gon, knew he will be alone with him – he never admitted it loud, but he was scared.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
They were close to planet Wil, but the only way there was through a vast field of asteroids.
Qui-Gon switched off the autopilot, his hands tightening on the controls, “The only way through this is with the Force”.
Obi-Wan shifted in his seat, breath uneven, but eyes focused, “Then I believe we will make it”, he smiled.
Qui-Gon closed his eyes and let the Force to fully guide him. He manoeuvred the ship ahead, asteroids tumbling around them, some dangerously close, but finally the ship broke free of the chaos and Wil come to a view.
Huge, full of green forest and blue lakes and oceans.
Qui-Gon turned at Obi-Wan, “We made it Obi-Wan, finally we are safe”.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Anakin walked from Senate halls, braid swinging slightly – he was there to observe and make notes and he should return to the Temple right after, but he reached the Chancellor’s office instead. The guards let him in without questions.
Palpatine rose from behind the desk with a warm smile, “My boy”, he said kindly, “I’ve heard how well you did during the Temple competition. You shine brighter with every passing day”.
Anakin shrugged his shoulders, “It was just a competition”, he said politely.
Palpatine smiled, “I bet, this is what Jedi says, but I think it’s a big victory and I hope you will forgive and old man´s indulgence. I have a gift for your triumph”.
Anakin blinked in surprise, when Palpatine handed him a polished datapad, sleeker than any he had used before.
“Is this for me”? he asked surprised.
Palpatine nodded, “The Jedi may guide your training, but I believe, you deserve to be celebrated – you are the most gifted Jedi I’ve ever met. The galaxy will know your name one day”.
“Thank you”, Anakin said with grateful eyes.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Qui-Gon landed on planet Wil safely, and walked out of the ship, Obi-Wan followed him. They watched the clouds above Wil and realised that the winter was already pressing on the horizon. The air felt like a bite of ice, warning of storms to come.
Qui-Gon wasted no time, and unloaded the special container, he bought on Marena. He unfolded its panels into the beginnings of a structure. Piece by piece, he started building it. A solid base dug into the ground, walls reinforced against the strong wind, roof angled to shed snow, seams sealed against the rain.
Obi-Wan watched him – after a few days it looked like something sturdy, something warm – a new home.
He tried to help Qui-Gon as much as possible, but each effort left him breathless, ribs aching, lungs raw. He knew Vokara was right, his recovery wasn’t measured in days or even weeks – it will take moths and maybe longer!
Finally, their small shelter was finished. Inside it was simple. A narrow kitchenette, small table, a corner partitioned for a shower, and a single bedroom with space just large enough for two beds.
It wasn’t the Temple, but it was safe, warm and theirs.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Coruscant Palpatine’s office
Master Windu was supposed to return in two days, and Anakin visited Palpatine again.
Palpatine reopened how Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan left the Order watching for Anakin reaction.
“Do you still miss them”? He asked carefully.
“Sometimes”, Anakin answered sincerely, “But now I feel they abandoned me”.
“They did”, Palpatine dared to feed the seed of doubts, “Jinn knew your potential, he had a chance to nurture you, to make you his Padawan. But he abandoned you, to care for his broken, ailing apprentice instead”.
Anakin stiffened but listened as Palpatine went on.
“Kenobi is sick, they say he is barely holding himself together. He’s a burden. Yet Jinn chose him, and he left you adrift. Tell me Anakin, is that fair”?
Anakin’s jaw clenched, eyes wet with a heat that wasn’t sadness, “No”, he said sharply, “Jinn abandoned me, even he promised he will train me”.
Palpatine now stood by the window, watching Coruscant traffic, hands folded behind his back. He felt Anakin’s anger – he knew the boy trusts him and that he won him.
Slowly Anakin walked to Palpatine to watch the traffic too, folding his hands over his chest.
Together, they watched Coruscant, silent – Anakin imagining glory, that will come one day, Palpatine could see them together – ruling something bigger.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Jedi Temple
Yoda stood alone at the Council chambers thinking about past months.
“The dark side I felt once gone”, he murmured to himself quietly, “but gone truly, hmm”?
He thought about Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan but also about Anakin and Mace, was it a mistake to let Qui-Gon disappear with Obi-Wan? Will Mace strict, book like training fit to Anakin in the future?
“Worry, I do”, he admitted quietly, “The galaxy rests on balance most fragile”.
xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Planet Wil
Five weeks past since Qui-Gon finished the cottage and parked their ship into the nearby cave.
The winter hit fully, but their small cottage was built well, and it was warm and cosy inside.
The first three weeks had been worst – Obi-Wan suffered badly – it was as Vokara predicted, after the very last bit of adrenaline was gone, it was shock to his body. He vomited even the lightest food and water, fever flaring, nightmares tearing through what little sleep he found. His breathing rattled in his chest and even migraines surprised him.
Qui-Gon guided him through it all, as he once promised. He was gentle when Obi-Wan needed to be comforted, but also firm if he felt it will keep Ob-Wan steady, and unyielding in his watch.
But Obi-Wan finally grew stronger. Not whole, not yet, but he could move without trembling and even prepare small food to himself and Qui-Gon. He could sleep without fear, that his body would betray him and if the weather allowed it, they took a short walk.
That evening, Obi-Wan lay beside Qui-Gon, head resting against his shoulder. The elder Jedi draped blankets over them both and opened the worn datapad Obi-Wan bought for him as a surprise. His deep voice carrying softly as he read aloud.
Obi-Wan listened in silence, his eyes drifting to the small window. Beyond it, only the dark and winter clouds pressed close, night swallowing the forest. But behind that veil of storm and snow, the galaxy spun, waited.
Obi-Wan knew, when it called for him, he will be ready.
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