Chapter 7: Meeting Oneself

"Why were you mean to Qui-Gon?"

It was the first thing Anakin demanded from Obi-Wan the moment they exited Master Yoda's quarters. While Anakin was ecstatic at seeing Qui-Gon Jinn, he did not missed Obi-Wan's stand-off behavior. He didn't even try to engage with the Jedi Master with pleasantries. And, when Anakin tried to establish a relationship with the Master, Obi-Wan shot him down.

Obi-Wan's nostrils widen as he exhaled deeply. "I wasn't mean."

"Yes you were," Anakin countered.

"If giving my opinion is mean," Obi-Wan stated, voice accented with thin agitation, "then—yes…I was mean."

"You didn't give your opinion, Obi-Wan," Anakin rebuked, lips pursed. "You berated his beliefs."

"I did no such thing."

"Yes you did," Anakin voiced louder than intended. "And you used that tone."

A single brow arched high on Obi-Wan's forehead. "What tone?"

"The tone you used with me when I was a youngling and argued with you," Anakin clarified, words clipped. "For a minute I thought you were going to send him to his room to meditate."

Anakin's strides grew longer as he picked up his pace. Heart thumping in his chest as he replayed the whole scene again in his mind. The way Obi-Wan regarded Qui-Gon like he was one of those pesky droids in the Separatists army. Anakin crossed his arms across his chest. "You acted like you were mad at him."

Obi-Wan drew out a long sigh, his face folding. "Anakin…it's not like that. I'm just as happy as you are seeing him."

Anakin stepped in front of Obi-Wan, cutting him off. "Then why the hostility?"

Obi-Wan's brows knitted, not keened on being interrupted. Anakin crossed his arms in front of his chest, chin tilted up in hope to make himself more imitating. But, he only received a faint frown that shifted Obi-Wan's beard.

"I'm sure you are aware of my feelings regarding the whole situation Anakin," said Obi-Wan.

Anakin did—Obi-Wan preferred to have eliminated Dooku without notice. Unfortunately, it did not happen like that. And, Obi-Wan was still trying his best to keep it all under control.

Obi-Wan's eyes fogged, a grim expression ghosting the typical warm color that compliment Obi-Wan's personality. It confused Anakin. This was not his Master. What was wrong with him? Anakin nearly questioned when Obi-Wan continued talking.

"I don't want to disrupt my beginnings. It was rough to begin with…" Obi-Wan said, drawing back the last words.

Anakin raised his brows to this tidbit. Obi-Wan was never one to open or share his feelings regarding his personal life. Most Jedi throw aside the notion of "personal" life as it closely resembled to the notion of attachment. If one had a personal life, they had secrets and desires that are not shared by the Jedi lifestyle. Anakin knew he had his personal life, thinking of his wife. But—he knew Obi-Wan did too. Again, Obi-Wan never shared.

Not that Obi-Wan and him never spoke of things outside the Jedi Order. They did. They discussed deep thoughts regarding the galaxy such as cultures and what's life like further out in space. And, they also talked about mindless trivia such as pod-racing and holo-net shows they very rarely watch. But, anytime Anakin tried to direct the conversation to Obi-Wan's time before he became Anakin's master, Obi-Wan misdirected him until Anakin forgot the reason why he started the conversation. His master was very good at manipulating a person away from their goal. Another reason he was the best negotiator the Jedi ever had.

And, now that Obi-Wan willing brought the conversation to the front, Anakin didn't hesitate to ask. "What happened?"

A single look from Obi-Wan told Anakin enough. The corner of his eyes tightened and his lips pressed together. There was no anger in the expression. Just concealment. "Another time," he simply said.

Obi-Wan will not let Anakin know any details. But, at least he gave something to Anakin. His Master's beginnings were rough.

Anakin shrugged off Obi-Wan's rejection to divulge his background. Didn't matter if Obi-Wan wouldn't tell him. He could always ask Qui-Gon.

They walked to the turbolift, entering upon arrival. Anakin hit the button that would drop them off at the Halls of Healing. As they dropped down several floors, Obi-Wan pulled the emergency brake. Their turbolift came to a shuddering halt.

Anakin eyed Obi-Wan, befuddled. "What—"

"We need to make a few things clear, Anakin," Obi-Wan stated.

"Did you need to stop the lift?"

"Yes—because I cannot have you walking away upset."

Anakin frowned. "Then don't make me upset."

"It's not my intention," Obi-Wan admitted, tone soothing in the same manner he used when pacifying arguments, "but, I want to remind you—"

Anakin tipped his head back and groaned. Not another lecture…

"Obi-Wan…"

"Let me finish, Anakin," Obi-Wan demanded, his eyes alight. His general persona maneuvering to the front. Jaw locked, eyes focused and his eyebrows knitted close together when he spoke. But, his voice did not share the same expression. They were light, soft like he was simply reminding Anakin to clean up his droid parts in the common room "Since we are now working alongside Qui-Gon and my younger self…you need to keep yourself in check."

"Keep myself in check?" Anakin repeated, lines deepening on his forehead. "What does that mean?"

"It means you cannot go babbling about the future," Obi-Wan warned, though no hint of a threat threaded his words. "You cannot tell Qui-Gon where you met him. How you met him. And—most importantly—don't tell him anything about Naboo. Anything about how he dies."

Anakin tried hard not to roll his eyes. This had to be the third lecture. Why did Obi-Wan feel the need to constantly remind him to withhold information about the future? He understood. Don't say a word to Qui-Gon. Not a single word. Future consequences and other things…

Yet, Anakin understood Obi-Wan's persistence. If Obi-Wan hadn't time-traveled to the past with him, it would have probably been the first thing Anakin would say to the Jedi Master. He couldn't help it, though. Many nights since his arrival at the Temple at that young age, he thought about Qui-Gon. Wondering if he would be proud at how far he's come with his training, in his achievements as a Jedi knight. He dreamed nights of when he got the chance to see Qui-Gon again, speak to the man. Wonderful dreams, but that was all they were. Dreams. Not reality. And, when he woke up and discovered the man was still dead, it only hurt him more. It happened when he lost his mother. He had similar dreams of her as well. He would do anything to have her back too. He would do anything to have both of them back in his life.

Since arriving in the past, he has a chance to do that! To piece back his family once again. Are they not in the future to stop bad things from happening? Anakin would count losing Qui-Gon as one of the worst things to happen in his life (and he's positive it's the same for Obi-Wan). Shouldn't they at least attempt to prevent it? Save the life of a man? Make their futures better?

His heart bellowed a dominant yes! They should save the man. The world would be better if Qui-Gon survived Naboo. Life would be good for both Anakin and Obi-Wan. A proper family.

Yet, in the far back of his mind, he heard logic scolding his thoughts. A Jedi does not think of oneself. It must think of the greater good. And, saving Qui-Gon was not for the greater good. It was for his desire. Selfish reasons.

Anakin shoved those words away from his mind, pushing until he heard a different voice. He followed, listening until he recognized it as his Master. Obi-Wan kept talking in the background. Anakin only heard a buzzing sound—like an irksome insect— which happened a lot when he tuned Obi-Wan's voice out. He should stop doing that. Obi-Wan gave good advice—even if it didn't align with what Anakin wanted to hear.

Anakin refocused on his Master, hearing the last part of Obi-Wan's lecture. "…so, please Anakin—don't say anything about the future," Obi-Wan's cultured voice cleared out, the buzzing gone. "If anything, just act like Qui-Gon is another regular Jedi Master, okay?"

Anakin nodded, too afraid he would verbally reject. Obi-Wan seemed satisfied with Anakin's response and released the emergency break. The turbolift began its descent again.

"I'm sorry to lecture you again," Obi-Wan murmured his apology. "I know you don't like them."

Anakin shrugged. "It's fine. I get it. Future consequences."

Obi-Wan's gaze didn't wander from Anakin. "Yes. Exactly," he agreed. "Let's focus on the mission. Stop Dooku."

Anakin nodded again his understanding of the orders. When the turbolift stop, they both exited with hesitation. The Halls of Healing—sent a slight shiver down both their spines. Neither like to be admitted to the Healing wards. When injured, they both hid away, using the Force to lick their wounds. Even when they were forced into the Halls of Healing, they snuck out, discharging themselves without approval of the healers. The Jedi Healers complained to the Jedi Council and Master Yoda (individually) about the difficulties of having Kenobi and Skywalker as patients. They've been reprimanded and told to obey the Jedi Healers. They don't doubt the healers' capabilities and knowledge. It was not their intention to make their lives difficult. Anakin could not speak for Obi-Wan, but Anakin hated being in healing wards because it made him feel weak and useless. Two things he despised the most.

Remembering that they were not hear to be admitted, they both tentatively stepped out of the turbolift and walked down the corridor. Anakin took note that the Halls of Healing changed very little. Decorations were limited and neutral colors smothered any personality the rooms had to offer. Calm and clarity vibes emitted around them, a state of peace of mind in order for those to heal properly.

When they passed by a few bacta tanks, Anakin hurried, his boots scuffing the floor to get away.

Obi-Wan graced an amused grin, a glimmer in his eyes. "See something back there?"

Anakin scowled at the light poke of his distressed. "Very funny Master."

Following Qui-Gon's Force Signature, they arrived outside one of the many healing wards. Anakin strolled up to the doorway, ready to punch the button for the door to slide open. He stopped half-way when he found that Obi-Wan stood a few yards away, arms holding himself around the chest and seemingly preferring to stay where he was rather than enter the room.

"Go on ahead, Anakin," Obi-Wan said, his eyes conflicted with different emotions. "I'm going to stay out here for a little longer."

Anakin wanted to argue, but none of his words would affect Obi-Wan's decision. With a shrug, Anakin rounded the corner, his nerves overacting as he spotted the door. His nervous energy burning alight, Anakin hit the button and the door zipped opened. Anakin stepped in the doorway and a smile crept to his face at the sight.

Qui-Gon sat next to the hospital cot, speaking lowly to a boy that sat up in the cot. The morning light spewed into the healing room, patterning the room in different shades of color. Anakin immediately noticed the similarities between his Master and the padawan. There's no possible way Anakin would not recognize him as Obi-Wan Kenobi. Not only did he still have that signature auburn hair, the look in his eyes expressed a calm hope that Anakin often saw in Obi-Wan's eyes even in the midst of a heavy battle.

The padawan's gaze turned from Qui-Gon to Anakin. At first, the boy expressed puzzlement. His eyebrows moved inward and his lips tighten in deep concentration. Then, his face sharpened as he shifted in his cot to sit up more appropriately, almost refusing to recognize that his injuries still cause him great discomfort.

Same old Obi-Wan, Anakin thought. Always trying to play off his injures as less serious than they appear.

Qui-Gon must have noticed the change in his padawan's behavior because he craned his head over his shoulders. "Ah…you cared to join us?"

"Master Yoda insisted we introduce ourselves," Anakin said, stepping further into the room. The door zipped closed behind him, "seeing as we will be together for some time."

Qui-Gon nodded and returned to his padawan. "Obi-Wan…he is one of the Jedi Knights I told you about."

Anakin moved to stand beside Qui-Gon, still amazed about the appearance of his Master as a small boy. Dressed in a hospital tunic, the padawan had his hands at his side, holding the edges of the cot to steady himself. He must still ache from the explosion—or for being flopped around in the back seat of the speeder. Anakin assumed the former. "The name's Anakin," he greeted. "Anakin Skywalker."

Padawan Kenobi tilted his head to the side, his eyes studying him as he took in Anakin's whole appearance. "You're a time-traveler."

Anakin nodded. "Yes—I am. One of them anyway."

Qui-Gon looked from Anakin to the door. Anakin could see it in Qui-Gon's face that he expected the door to open again and the older Obi-Wan to join the little gathering. Instead, the door remained shut. He turned to Anakin for a response, to which Anakin could only give him a helpless half-shrug.

Anakin barely heard Qui-Gon's sigh in dejection. Guilt clung to Anakin's heart upon seeing Qui-Gon upset. Could Obi-Wan not see how hurt Qui-Gon at seeing his padawan reject him? Anakin's tensed in his frustration. He should had convinced Obi-Wan to join him or, at least, dragged his Master into the room. He hated seeing that look of fault in Qui-Gon's face.

"The other—he's just outside," Anakin replied, hoping it would cheer Qui-Gon up knowing Obi-Wan was at least close by. "He just need to get his thoughts together. Being sent through time…it's been a little tough on him.

The younger Obi-Wan gazed directly at Anakin to the point Anakin thought the young padawan was able to read his thoughts. Did his bond with his Master mean the younger version had it too? Anakin wondered and went to test the theory when the young padawan spoke with maturity much older than a boy his age.

"The Council forbids time-traveling."

Anakin arched one of his eyebrows. Even this Obi-Wan is a strickler for the rules. "We…um, didn't have much of a choice."

"Because of the Sith," Obi-Wan's definite voice stated to Anakin. "Master Qui-Gon told me that is why our ship was bomb. A Sith Lord is here to cause destruction."

Anakin swiped a quick glance to Qui-Gon. Did the Jedi Master not warn his young padawan of the Sith Lord's real goal? Had he decided not to disclose that major detail? Anakin tried to make eye contact with the Jedi Master. Qui-Gon's eyes uneasily shifted from Anakin back to his padawan before taking a deep breath.

"Actually…Obi-Wan, there's more I need to tell you," Qui-Gon said, gently to ease the boy before dropping a burden onto his shoulders.

Padawan Kenobi lifted his head. "There's more Master?"

Qui-Gon nodded. "The Sith that attacked us early this morning…he's got a more precise agenda."

Obi-Wan frowned, a more concerned look graved his boyish looks. But, Anakin noticed that he held himself respectively, back straight, and spoke in a mild manner—just like his Master. "What's he planning, Master?"

The boy didn't know. Not yet. Qui-Gon must have yet to tell his young padawan that he's become the main target of the Sith Lord. Most times, padawans are barely even recognized as Jedi by those outside the Temple. To the rest, they are merely younglings who try to pretend to be grown adults. Many are hardly recognized or even considered dangerous. They were seen as weak and talentless than their Jedi Masters. So, Anakin wondered how this Obi-Wan—barely a year into his apprenticeship—would handle the news that a Sith Lord has marked him for death.

Qui-Gon pulled the chair from the wall and settled himself in the seat. "Obi-Wan…do you remember anything about this morning?"

Obi-Wan paused, his eyes drifting away from his Master in deep thought. "Yes, Master. I remember arriving on the platform and feeling something. Like a dark, oily presence."

A smirk lightened Anakin's face when he heard young Obi-Wan's description of Dooku's Force Signature. It was more or less an accurate description of the monster himself.

"I need you to remember that presence," Qui-Gon required his padawan. "Do not forget that feeling."

Obi-Wan nodded diligently. "Yes, Master," he agreed, then paused. Anakin thought he was going to stroke his chin. But he didn't. "Master? Are we being tasked on capturing the Sith?"

Qui-Gon shook his head. "No, my padawan," he answered, resting his forearms on his knees as he leaned over. "That tasks belongs to Master Skywalker and his companion." Qui-Gon nudged his head to Anakin. "I want you to never forget that sense, Obi-Wan, because…"

Qui-Gon gave a quick glance to Anakin. The Jedi knight saw the melancholy lurking in Qui-Gon's eyes. Anakin never saw that emotion from Qui-Gon Jinn. A shadow of pleas casted in the wise Master's face, as if he hoped that what they told him earlier in Master Yoda's quarters was a lie. That the Sith Lord had no intentions of killing the young padawan. His padawan.

But, Anakin could not. All he could do was turn away, focusing on the rough fabric of the blanket covering the padawan. Qui-Gon resigned to the answer as he spoke to his young padawan, "...because it is believed that the Sith Lord's intentions is to eliminate you."

Anakin watched for Obi-Wan's reaction. To his great surprise, Obi-Wan didn't show any reaction. Not at first. Almost like he was still comprehending what Qui-Gon told him, deciphering and analyzing every word. His brows knitted, heavy over his eyes that questioned the revelation. Anakin thought Obi-Wan would start stroking his chin. He didn't…still.

Then again, this Obi-Wan had yet to grow a beard. He's not exactly matured into the age that he could start shaving. Even his voice is little off pitch. This Obi-Wan was still growing. Learning. He has yet to reach the point where he became the Jedi everyone in the future knows. At the moment, he's a boy Anakin never imagined. In his years of growing up with the man, Anakin never once thought of Obi-Wan as a boy. When he imagined Obi-Wan's past, he still pictured Obi-Wan as the man he knows. He didn't even picture Obi-Wan as a youngling. Obi-Wan acted very much like he never had a childhood. He just came into the world at the age of twenty-five. And, if told that, Anakin was sure many other Jedi would accept it as truth.

Obi-Wan just never acted like he was ever a youngling before.

And now, standing beside the boy that will become his Master—his father and brother—he watched the steadily calm features of his mask break after comprehending his Master's words. Deep lines creased his forehead, face a pale shadier and his hands clutched the ends of his blanket. His eyes did not dare look at either Qui-Gon or Anakin.

The young padawan slowly exhaled. "The…the Sith Lord…he's trying to kill me?"

Qui-Gon nodded.

"Why?" Padawan Kenobi questioned, his words barely above a murmur.

Anakin knew exactly why. Kill Obi-Wan now as an innocent youngling and have a greater success in the future of turning the galaxy into a Sith Lord Empire. But, Qui-Gon didn't know that. And, after Obi-Wan's lectures, Anakin wasn't allowed to say much on the matter.

But, he had to say something to the boy. "The Sith believes you're a threat," Anakin explained. "And, he plans to remove that threat by killing you."

The young padawan stiffened a nod, but he didn't say anything else. He retreated into his mind, keeping everyone out. Like the older version when experienced a traumatic event. Retreat, meditate, and start anew. Anakin could never do that. Meditation did not come easy to him and his heightened emotions often made it difficult for him to sit still. So, he shut himself away and worked on droids to ease the nerves until he was ready to talk to either Obi-Wan, Padmé or Chancellor Palpatine.

Qui-Gon reached over to his padawan, a hand resting on his shoulder. "Do not be afraid, Obi-Wan," he advised to his padawan. "You are safe here."

Padawan Kenobi raised his head. "I'm not afraid, Master."

Anakin did not believe the padawan's words. And, it seemed, neither did Qui-Gon. "It's okay, Obi-Wan. Just remember your training and remember—" Qui-Gon lightly squeezed Obi-Wan's shoulder, "I'll be with you."

Anakin flinched at Qui-Gon's last words, his throat becoming increasingly dry. If only that could be true.

Qui-Gon nor young Obi-Wan noticed Anakin's grimace. The young padawan nodded his head, gaining color back to those pale cheeks. He loosen his hold on his blanket and his eyes lifted up, dawning as a slight twitch of a smile threated the corner of his lips. "Yes, Master," he replied.

Anakin watched the fatherly-son moment between Qui-Gon and young Obi-Wan. He turned away, feeling he was invading a private family moment. But, wasn't he family to them? Why did he feel the need to step back? Obi-Wan is his family! The last family—besides Padmé—that he has left since the death of his mother. He had every right to join in the moment. To show that he too will do whatever it takes to protect the boy…and Qui-Gon from danger.

But, Obi-Wan's words filtered in his head, warning him. He could not intrude. He must pretend that they were ordinary Jedi. That there was no connection between the three of them. Nothing.

It tore Anakin's heart to betray his feelings. He breathed deeply, trying his best to control his rising emotions from emitting through the Force.

"Master Skywalker?"

Anakin jolted from his thoughts, his head snapped to the young padawan, who stared up at him. "Master Skywalker," Padawan Kenobi repeated. "Are you all right?"

Anakin blinked. Moving his weight from one foot to the next, he glanced from the boy to Qui-Gon. The Jedi Master also stared at him, waiting for a response. They must have felt some sort of disturbance coming off him to act concern. Obi-Wan warned him to practice to let go of his emotions rather than bottle them inside. If only Obi-Wan was here, he could easily deflect the two's worried eyes away from him.

But, Obi-Wan still remained outside the healing ward.

Anakin had to find his own way to deflect their concerns. He must not tell them the truth or Obi-Wan would surely lock him in with a bantha.

He slipped into an easy smile. "I'm fine—just thinking of my Master," he relayed to the two. It wasn't necessary a lie. And, if they tried to Force read him, they will sense he was telling the truth—just without the details. "And, no need to call me Master," Anakin added to the young Obi-Wan. "Just Anakin."

The boy nodded. "Yes, Mast—Yes, Anakin."

The smile stayed on Anakin's face. He found it truly amusing that the young Obi-Wan addressed him as Master. The only person to never call him by such a title was Obi-Wan. He never addressed Anakin in such a manner like the other Jedi. Obi-Wan always called Anakin and, on occasion, called him padawan and friend when feeling nostalgic or emotional. And, now, his younger version addressing him with the title felt ironic and, also disturbing. Anakin being a Master to Obi-Wan felt wrong. It should not be that way. Never.

"Anakin?"

Anakin looked back to the boy. The young padawan leaned forward in his cot, a spark of interest flared in his eyes. "Do you know me in the future?"

Anakin's mouth opened, but no words slipped off his tongue. It hung in silence, unable to inform the boy that he knew his older self very well—down to stories of his scars. Had Qui-Gon not mentioned that the other time-traveler was actually his older self?

No. He did not. Anakin contemplated on how to explain his relations with the older Obi-Wan to the younger one. Fortunately, Qui-Gon spoke on his behalf. "Actually, Obi-Wan…that's something I need to discuss with you as well."

The young padawan snapped his attention to his Master, a long line dug in his forehead as he raised his eyebrows. "What is it, Master?"

"As I informed you minutes ago," Qui-Gon began, "Anakin came to the past with a fellow Jedi knight."

Padawan Kenobi nodded. He remembered.

Qui-Gon's eyes reflected the morning light, consuming it as he gazed at his padawan. "That fellow Jedi knight…is you."

The statement had an immediate effect on the padawan. Young Obi-Wan's jaw slipped. "Me?"

Qui-Gon nodded slowly. "Yes…I saw you—him—with my own eyes," he murmured. "It's you from the future," Qui-Gon nudged his head to the door. "He's just outside."

Anakin watched the young padawan bend, trying to look passed his Master to the closed doors. "Is he not allowed to be in the same room as me?"

"No—he's just being himself," Anakin responded, which sprung confusion on the boy's features. "He's not quite comfortable coming back to the past."

"Why not?"

Anakin's mouth shifted as he mummed for a moment. "He's…just concerned about how the future will—"

"Be affected," young Obi-Wan finished, a slight bobbed of his head indicating an understanding. "Yes—I guess that can be disconcerting."

Qui-Gon gripped the padawan's shoulder. "Which is why we should not look ahead of ourselves, my padawan," he warned, glaring down at young Obi-Wan. The padawan's cheeks redden lightly, head bowed apologetically.

"Yes, Master," Padawan Kenobi replied.

"Focus on the moment—"

"—and not a future that is always in motion," young Obi-Wan finished.

Qui-Gon frowned, sliding his hand off the padawan's shoulder as he positioned them lightly on his hips. "And, one should not interrupt their Master when speaking."

Again, Obi-Wan's cheeks burned darker. "Yes, Master," he said. "Sorry, Master."

Anakin regarded the padawan with pity. He knew all too well about being scolded. Had enough from Obi-Wan during his padawan years. In fact, even in his knighthood Obi-Wan continued to discipline him. But, not as harshly as he did in his younger years.

The door to the ward slid opened again with a hiss. Anakin twisted his neck to look at the visitor and he smiled warmly at seeing his Master on the other side of the threshold. Still holding himself with some discomfort, Obi-Wan managed to put up a façade that portrayed his willingness to join the group. He strolled into the room, eyes trained on Anakin before sneaking a glance at Qui-Gon. Their eyes met, but Obi-Wan turned away, drifting back to Anakin, whom he bowed his head in greeting.

"Decided to join?" Anakin teased him.

Obi-Wan merely lift his shoulder. "I never told you I wouldn't," he reminded. "I just needed time to collect my thoughts."

Anakin bore an innocent smirk. "Care to introduce yourself to yourself?"

Obi-Wan looked at him with a thin veil of exasperation. His mouth parted to comment when his own voice uttered out before his own lips could form words. Anakin turned away from Obi-Wan back to the hospital cot, where the padawan version of his Master sat upright and eyes eagerly examining every inch of Master Kenobi.

"You're me?" the young padawan questioned as Obi-Wan ambled further into the healing ward, passing Anakin and Qui-Gon.

He stopped by the foot of the bed, eyes traveling up the bed to the young boy's face. "I was once you," Obi-Wan clarified, "just as you may become me."

The padawan frowned in such a response. "You sound like Master Yoda."

A twitch of a smile sparks on Obi-Wan's face. "I've been told," he said, eyeing Anakin.

Anakin half-shrugged. He often told Obi-Wan that he hung-out with Master Yoda far too often. He teased his Master, ridiculing the poor man for sounding like Master Yoda. Though he poked his Master in good-nature, Anakin told Padmé multiple times that Obi-Wan was as wise as Master Yoda.

Obi-Wan turned away, his eyes settled on the rising sun that came up from behind the building spires. He slowly approached the window, his robe dragging behind him. Anakin watched his Master's back, noticing the stiffness in the man's shoulders. Obi-Wan still felt uncomfortable with the situation.

Anakin wanted to say something. To get Obi-Wan to feel more open over the situation. There was nothing they could do. Master Yoda was correct. In the end, Qui-Gon and young Obi-Wan would have figured them out and gotten involved. It was best they started together, develop trust and work together.

And, Anakin was glad. He wanted to be with Qui-Gon. To learn more about the Jedi Master that saved him from slavery and believed in him and his abilities. He wanted to foster that familial sense he always wanted with Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan. To become a family like they were supposed to be all those years ago (or years ahead? Time-traveling is a real headache). Why did Obi-Wan refuse to acknowledge it? Deny the possibility? Anakin could only wonder, but he grew agitated the more Obi-Wan kept himself distant from Qui-Gon.

"Anakin?" Obi-Wan's voice called, which jolted Anakin. Did Obi-Wan hear his thoughts? "Come here."

It wasn't a command. A request. But, Anakin obliged nonetheless.

He arrived by Obi-Wan's side, in front of the window, looking out at Coruscant's morning. Nothing seemed off-putting or strange. Yet, when Obi-Wan called him over, there was a hint of curiosity. Something that Obi-Wan needed answers.

"What is it?" Anakin asked, still confused why they were looking out at the city.

Anakin turned to his Master for an answer only to be surprised that Obi-Wan was not looking at the city at all. His eyes were trained on the window. Specifically, the latch of the window. Anakin gazed closer, his eyes narrowing. There was something wrong with the latch.

"Scorch marks," Obi-Wan muttered under his breath to Anakin. "Marks of a lightsaber."

Anakin straightened up, alarmed. "You don't think…"

Obi-Wan's shoulders raised nonchalantly. He stepped back from the window, looking over his shoulder to Qui-Gon and his younger self. "Was there anyone else in the room?"

Qui-Gon stared directly at Obi-Wan. "Just my padawan and Healer Tiri," he answered.

"Are you sure?" Obi-Wan questioned.

"Master…" Anakin muttered, hating how Obi-Wan challenged Qui-Gon—again.

Qui-Gon didn't seemed bothered at all. "There could have been another person in the room," he replied, calmly, and he gazed down at his apprentice. "Obi-Wan—was there anyone else here?"

The padawan shook his head. "No, Master. I woke up and Healer Tiri was standing over me," he answered. "No one else."

But, that didn't satisfy Obi-Wan. He brushed the edges of his chin with his fingers, pondering as he glanced from one end of the room back to the window. Without hesitation, he pulled the window gently, the cold morning air filtering into the room.

Anakin shivered. He's never gotten used to the chilly temperatures. Coming from Tatoonie, anything below hundred degrees was considered cold.

Obi-Wan stuck his hand out and touched the scorch marks. "It's still warm."

That was all Anakin needed to hear. He drew out his lightsaber and pulled the window more open, a rush of air crashing into him and Obi-Wan. As careful as possible, he crawled out of the window and onto the tight edge. The wind thrusted around him, his robe flapping in the window that Anakin had to have his mechanical arm grip the wall for support.

With Obi-Wan on the other side of the glass, he examined the outside. There was a long scorch mark that sliced across the window's mechanism. The window could no longer be properly locked. Anakin's fingers traced the mark, feeling the heat that still radiated from the scorch.

At contact, he felt it burn into his skin and all the way through his soul. The heat burned his heart, marking a dark shadow that crept closer. He could feel it looming, casting its anger and hate throughout Anakin's soul. And, it brought so much power. A deadly toxin that ate away at his senses. It consumed him, feeding on his Force. So much power…

"Anakin?"

Anakin blinked, his fingers jerking away from the scorch mark. Once refocused, he saw Obi-Wan had slid the window all the way open, his hand tight on Anakin's wrist.

Concern weathered his Master's eyes. "Are you okay?"

Anakin nodded, brushing his fingers on his robe as if to wipe off the darkness that he touched. He looked down the side of the building, his hair flying out of his face as he studied the layout. "I think you're right," Anakin admitted to Obi-Wan as he climbed back into the healing ward. With a wave of his hand, the window closed. "He was here."

Qui-Gon joined them, blocking his padawan's view of their discussion. His voice low, but not terribly difficult that Anakin would have to concentrate to hear. "The Sith Lord was here?"

Anakin nodded. "When I touched the scorch mark, I felt the dark side's presence," he said, mostly to Obi-Wan. "He was here...or at least, out there."

Obi-Wan glanced to his younger self. Anakin looked over as well, noticing that Padawan Kenobi leaned over his cot, straining to hear the conversation they purposely kept him out. "It's not safe for him to be here," Obi-Wan said to Anakin and Qui-Gon. "We'll have to get Healer Tiri to sign off. Get him out before he comes back."

"Do you think he will?" Qui-Gon questioned.

"It's a possibility," Obi-Wan offered. "All he would need to do is place a bomb in the open window and let it do its task."

Tiredness seeped into Qui-Gon's face, lines underneath his eyes betraying his age. "I'll get Healer Tiri to release Obi-Wan. I'll also inform Master Yoda and Mace of this. They'll want to remove all patients in the vicinity."

Anakin nodded. "Obi-Wan and I can help," he said. "Right Obi-Wan—Obi-Wan?"

His master had returned to the window, reexamining the scorch mark. He didn't dare touch it, but he got to eye level, tracing the black mark. He turned away from the window and looked back to the cot a pensive complexion exposing his features.

Obi-Wan stood to his full height, catching the odd look Anakin was giving him. "What?"

Anakin shrugged. He decided to hold it off, wait for another time. "Nothing," he said, eyes roaming the corner ceilings of the room. "We should check the holo-cameras. Just in case."

Obi-Wan's eyes flickered to the ceiling as well. "Good thinking."

Anakin strode across the ward, typing the access codes into the holo-pad to gain the videos of the room. Obi-Wan came up next to him and Qui-Gon on the other side, both looking over his shoulder at the holo-pad.

When he gained access, all the video managed to capture was a figure in a dark robe cutting through the window while Padawan Kenobi slept unaware. Then, the video went static.

"He must have destroyed the cameras," Anakin said.

Obi-Wan agreed. "He didn't want to be seen."

"Clearly," Anakin pointed and he turned off the holo-pad. "Well—you're lucky, Obi-Wan. He could have easily killed you—or younger you."

Qui-Gon's nostrils flared when he breathed. "I'll get Healer Tiri to release Obi-Wan," he informed the two knights, "and contact Yoda about the Sith."

Anakin agreed to the plan. "We'll stay here," he said. "Keep an eye out and protect Obi-Wan if the Sith returns."

That brought some comfort to Qui-Gon before he left the healing ward, telling his padawan to obey the Jedi Knights while he's gone. Padawan Kenobi nodded his compliance and watched the door shut with a sharp hiss behind his Master.

Padawan Kenobi turned to the two Jedi Knights. "Am I not safe in the Temple?"

Anakin moved away from the holo-pad, going to the front of the hospital cot. "With us around," Anakin said, indicating himself and older Obi-Wan, "you're safe. The Sith won't get close to you again. Not on our watch."

The padawan nodded, but Anakin could see the skepticism in the boy's eyes. It insulted Anakin the boy doubted his ability to protect him. Did he not trust them? Did he think they do not have the power to stop Dooku from killing him? Anakin's the Chosen One. If Dooku didn't keep using cheap tricks to escape, then he would have been eliminated a long time ago. But, Dooku only cared about his own preservation. So, throwing innocents in danger as a distraction to escape was all to easy for him. But, in a fair fight, Anakin was sure he could end the Sith Lord.

The boy looked away from Anakin back to the window, where the video last captured the Sith Lord. "He stood right there," he muttered. "Just—right there."

Heat rose inside Anakin, his anger drilled into his teeth as he gritted. "That won't happen again."

The young padawan's shoulders drooped lower. "I don't get it," he murmured, diverting his gaze. "Why does he need to kill me? I'm not that important…or am I?"

The padawan was not looking at Anakin. His eyes were locked on his older self, who returned the stare with a different, sharpen expression. It's not one of frustration, but more of deep concentration. He didn't even seem to hear the young padawan's question about Dooku. Too deep within his mind to hear the present. Obi-Wan brushed his beard with his hand. His eyes lost in thought again. Tension grew on his face, drawing his eyebrows closer.

Anakin drew himself away from the young padawan, closer to his Master. Anakin knew that look well. "What is it?"

Obi-Wan blinked. "What?"

"That face."

Obi-Wan's eyebrows wrinkled. "It's just my face."

Anakin shook his head ardently. "No—you're making that face when you feel that something is off," he pointed. "So—what's going on?"

Anakin crossed his arms, waiting for his Master to shrug off his observation. But, Anakin knows Obi-Wan. He knew his Master was questioning what they were seeing. Looking beyond the image. Anakin grew interested in what pestered Obi-Wan about the scene. He stood with arms tucked in his robe, waiting for Obi-Wan to indulge his thoughts.

Obi-Wan lightly sighed. "It's nothing Anakin," he said, waving Anakin's comment aside. "Nothing important at the moment."

Anakin scoffed. "Now I know it's important," he said, tersely. "Tell me, Obi-Wan."

"It's nothing—"

A sharp hissed interrupted the two Jedi Knights and announced the arrival of Healer Tiri, who stepped across the threshold with his charts. "Master Jinn told me of the situation," he said as his way of greeting. Then he swept to the padawan. "Let's do some final checks so that you can be on your way."

The padawan flicked his eyes to Anakin and his older self. They both nodded him to relax and the young padawan leaned back in his cot, listening to Healer Tiri speak about the first test he was going to conduct.

In a matter of a hour, the Padawan Kenobi was given a clean sheet of health. Qui-Gon was still gone, so Anakin and Obi-Wan ushered his younger self out of the Halls of Healing, deciding to head back to Qui-Gon's apartments for the meantime until young Kenobi received a call on his comlink. It was from Qui-Gon, requesting the three of them to meet him outside the High Council Chamber.

"Come straight here," he said. "No where else."

They stopped the turbolift and turned around, heading back up to the tallest spires of the Jedi Temple.