PART ELEVEN: TIME TO SAY GOOD-BYE
No one questioned the Jedi as the funeral ended, several minutes later. They feared it would only crush the Jedi even more. Many high ranking officers directed other troops to report to clearing away the damage, while still keeping an eye for enemies.
No doubt Obi-Wan was in pain. The very brink of the Republic rested in his hands the most. He was the only hope in protecting the last hope for the galaxy. He couldn't let the past dwell in his actions now and in the future.
It would all pass in time. he forced himself to admit. But how long will it take? This will be harder than anything I've faced. The status of the Jedi is no longer where it should be. Why can't I feel anything more than what's in the room? Who else survived?
He left the room and the Temple, undetected. He needed time to think, and the troops were given their assignment. They'd do it and wouldn't think otherwise. He needed to be alone. Wash away the agony and the pain he was feeling. He walked out into the new cleansing rainy world of Coruscant.
Rain means so many things. Rebirth. Cleansing. Endings. Beginnings. Mistakes. Pain. But, right now, it feels so good.
The rain drenched him like a wet dog. He was wet almost instantly, but the cloak would keep him warm for some time. It seemed to display the Force and the world in an all new light. He looked to the sky, seeing the sun trying to peak out of the cloud coverage. He let out a small weak smile and continued the long walk to Padmé's apartment. He ducked into an alley, to avoid bringing so much attention to himself. He couldn't risk it. Not here and he knew that. This was the central place for the stormtroopers. The troopers he once called allies in the Clone Wars, were now set for one thing. Search and destroy threats to the Republic - or the Sith. He took to a fire escape, and followed the path into the pedestrian tube, where barely no one traveled. Many people were indoors avoiding the rain, or elsewhere.
The rain set a trail through the walkway, the sudden change in temperature took Obi-Wan by surprised. He felt as if he was just another human in his cold, drenched cloak. No meaning of the Force or how it worked. Only living in a simple life of making a living in a crushing galaxy. He blinked, feeling the Force surge around him. It was a swirl of colors and feelings in his mind that could not fully be pinpointed. It didn't feel like a threat–but another way to learn.
Two perspectives. A regular. A Jedi. I never realized how much a regular doesn't need to worry about, but yet, not have a clue about. We live in two different worlds, though we breath the same air. Yet, why do I stand here and question this matter when it should be on the danger before me. I'm not safe here, but where do I go? How will I know who survived the battle? How does anyone know, especially with the many battles still going on on other planets?
There were far too many questions Obi-Wan was thinking about that wasn't even necessary, not for a Jedi. Not for him. He was one of the most famous Jedi to have fought in the Clone Wars. The war itself was beginning to end, the treaty between the Republic and Separatists was in the works. Yet, he didn't know what the status on that was.
He walked through the pathway, exited, and continued through the rainy city- jungle. His footsteps hit several puddles, but he didn't care. He was already drenched from head to toe, mostly mentally. It brought pain to him, a headache and dizziness following. He stumbled, as he found himself at the lone steps leading up to Padmé's apartment. He caught his breath, replaying every bit of battle he was ever involved in. From the beginning, to now, and possibly even the distant future.
He shook it all away when he saw a weak figure struggle up the stairs to Padmé's apartment. He didn't hesitate to come to the figure's aide. The aroma around the figure felt so familiar, but Obi-Wan couldn't put his finger on it. Just as the figure got to the top step, it collapsed, falling into the protective arms of Obi-Wan as he retreated up the stairs. The figure came to rest in his strong embrace, as they came to rest on the top step.
He pushed the hood away, and caught a short breath. "Bant?" He was breathless, hurt swelled inside him. "Bant, no."
The Mon Calamarian stirred, looking up at the Jedi who caught her, dazed. "Obi-Wan? Obi, is that you?"
Obi-Wan placed a hand on her arm, relaying a Force-medicine into the young Mon Calamarian he considered his best friend. But even he knew it was too late to save her. He just didn't want to think of it any other way. He didn't want to lose another to the Force, not now, and in such a fashion as this. She was out in the rain for far too long, even for someone who came from the watery planet of Mon Calamari. She winced, quietly, slipping her hand into her cloak. Obi-Wan pulled it aside to see the blaster wounds along her side. On the arm were lacerated cuts from another lightsaber. He caught his breath, examining her, but she pushed his hand away.
She winced again, trying to get to her feet. "I'm fine, Obi-Wan."
Obi-Wan placed a hand on her shoulder, forcing her back into the comfort of his lap. "I wish that were true, my friend, but you're hurt and need medical attention right away."
She smiled. Her silver eyes glistened in the calmness of the rain. "You know, how much I hate hospitals. They never tend to you the way a Healer does, but even sometimes, they think they know better when really all that happened was a bump on the head."
Obi-Wan managed a smile. Despite all she was going through, she could always find a positive solution behind it. "But you're weak, Bant."
She looked beyond his gaze and into the sky. The light inside her was growing small with each breath she took. It shook Obi-Wan to the core.
No. Not another one, please. Not my best friend. Obi-Wan thought painfully.
"Don't feel sorry for me, Obi-Wan. Don't cry. Perhaps it is, in fact, my time to–"
"Don't say that," he forced out from behind trembling lips. "I'm not ready to see you go. Not like this. You should of fled like the other Jedi."
"And miss all the action? Of course not! There is never a day I ever regret becoming a Jedi. And neither should you, Obi-Wan," she held up her hand.
Obi-Wan clamped it in his own. "I could never get you to say 'no' to anything I said. You always had my back, Bant. Especially when Anakin left. Even now. You never abandoned me like everyone else."
"Friends look out for each other, that's what they do, Obi-Wan."
"Yeah, that's what," he choked, "friends do."
Her gaze grew serious. "Don't cry for me, Obi-Wan. Did you cry for Qui- Gon?"
He looked down. "No. I never did. I wanted to, but the tears never fell."
"It is because you knew better. He didn't want to see you cry. You are a Jedi."
"But I cried for Sabé," he admitted. "Why could I cry for her?"
"Perhaps because you loved her more. But still, you loved them both."
Obi-Wan wasn't sure what his friend was trying to prove, but right now it didn't matter. He always told her and Flip almost everything. There was no use hiding it now. "Yes. I did. But, why must you ask me this now, Bant?"
"The way you remember a person is how well they've impacted and effected your life. Sabé had a much bigger impact because she was not like the rest of us. You said she was strong in the Force, but in another way, not like the rest of us Jedi. But it was still pure. Strong. Qui-Gon was much the same way. He knew where he needed to leave his mark, and he passed it along to you. It was only right, since you were his apprentice. He hoped you could pass it along to Anakin, and I know you did. He just doesn't realize it yet."
Obi-Wan held his breath. The events of the last few days played through his head. "But I could of stopped him. Saved him from the Dark Side, but it just didn't work. I couldn't even save the Temple."
"One man cannot do it alone. No one person could. It was a team effort from all the Jedi, Obi-Wan. But they came out victorious for now. Don't let that put you down. We can't lose forever. Light will always conquer the darkness."
"Do you think the galaxy could be saved?" He wanted to know.
She drew in a deep breath and closed her eyes. "No one's future can be discovered with just looking at it through the power of the Force. But by believing also. Do you believe it can be saved?"
"I'm not so sure," he admitted. "I don't really want to think about what would happen if the galaxy could not be saved. What do you think?"
"I believe if a lot of people won't lose hope, then there is still a chance for the galaxy."
He nodded and looked away.
She looked at him again, seeing the extreme loss in his eyes. "I'm sorry...about Anakin."
"I just wasn't quick enough," he whispered. The image of Anakin's body hitting the lava burned through Obi-Wan's mind. "He was just — could one man be powerful enough to destroy an entire galaxy?"
"With greed and power. I wouldn't doubt it," she admitted.
Obi-Wan nodded. The light inside Bant was too weak, now. Far too weak. Obi-Wan pushed back his tears, holding her even closer. He wanted to heal her wounds, but knew it wouldn't do any good. She didn't even accept the offer.
"Don't, Obi-Wan," Bant pleaded. "You can't change the past, but only live in the present to show you the way into the future. I'm not afraid to die."
"I don't want you to go, my friend," he stated.
"We'll each other again, Obi-Wan. When the time permits it."
He nodded again. "Of course, Bant. Until another time."
"See ya around, Ben."
"See ya, Bant. May the Force be with you."
"And guide you into the future, Ben."
Then the life inside the Mon Calamarian burned out, never to be lightened by the light of this world, again. Her silver eyes closed for the last time. Obi-Wan watched as her body disappeared from his grasps, leaving behind the cloak and lightsaber Bant had called her own. He folded the cloak up, took the lightsaber, and buried it in the planter next to the stairs. Obi-Wan looked at it for some time. His mind was an empty void. He could sense the presence of someone near by, but ignored it.
"Obi-Wan," a voice spoke, firmly.
Obi-Wan turned to the voice, to the man who had spoke his name, on the balcony. He didn't have to think twice, knowing exactly who it was. It was the ghostly image of his Master. Qui-Gon Jinn. The wind blew freely through his cloak. The man appeared to age as time permitted, but still held that leonine feature the Jedi have come to know from the maverick Jedi. A small smile was set atop his lips, as Obi-Wan approached him.
"Qui-Gon?" Obi-Wan was hesitant.
Qui-Gon bowed, and walked over to the rail of the balcony. The younger man following much like the apprentice he once was.
In the distance, the sun began to break from the cloudy abyss, revealing the sunset. It was a beautiful sight, after such a gloomy and saddened day. But Obi-Wan didn't seem to notice it, or care too much about it.
"The sunset can be so beautiful," Qui-Gon said, gently.
"Yeah, I guess so," Obi-Wan said, still looking to the ground. He began to form rain balls out of the small puddles sitting on the rail, through the Force. Qui-Gon looked at him, the young Jedi sensing the concern in the elder man. "The sunset reminds me of darkness that sweeps through the area, giving me doubt in believing I'll never see light again. Sometimes, on cold, lonely nights I feel like the sun will never rise up to greet the land anymore."
"You can't possibly believe that, Obi-Wan. Light always conquers all darkness. You have taught me that many times, especially early on in your training."
Obi-Wan flung one of the rainballs into the air, ignoring his old master's comment.
"Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon grew serious.
"I haven't forgotten," he finally looked up to meet the elder man in the eyes. "But I'm not quite sure when I'll actually see the sun as something more than just a giant ball of gas. I don't know, Master, I feel I've lost my ability to contact the Force."
"I know it is a hard time for you, Obi-Wan. It will take time for you to heal from such a tragic event. But you have to be strong. Strong for the rest of the Jedi. Strong for the galaxy. And strong for Padmé," Qui-Gon directed. "But putting the blame on yourself will not make this go away any quicker. It will only lead to deeper scars that may never get fixed. Remember, life is a choice on how you live it. But also choosing the right path for yourself will provide rewards well worth it in the end."
Obi-Wan nodded, slowly. "Yes, Master."
"Protect Padmé," Qui-Gon guided. "You're one of the only people left to protect her. Train the twins in the shadows, and keep them out of the reach of the Empire. The Emperor can't live on forever. The Emperor will have to die, and by that time a new era of Jedi will come into existence. They will bring order back into the galaxy, Obi-Wan. Don't lose hope. Never give up on hope."
"The future is always in motion, Qui-Gon," Obi-Wan flung another rainball into the air.
"That it is, Obi-Wan. It will change as time allows because the future can never be set. Remember that, Obi-Wan."
"I will, Master." Obi-Wan felt a little uneasy.
Qui-Gon looked at the younger Jedi, a small smile spread thinly across his lips. "You think that you failed me, Obi-Wan? You haven't. You never did. You haven't truly failed anyone, except yourself." Obi-Wan's eyebrow rose, confused. "If you can't learn to put the past in the past, then the future will only become worse. You'll find yourself alone and full of guilt, hoping you truly had a shot to change things, but it comes right back at you, and knocks you off your feet. Don't be afraid to move on, but don't rush or wait too long. Trust me, Ben."
"But how will — " Obi-Wan tried to say.
"You will know," Qui-Gon cut him short. "You will know, Ben."
Obi-Wan nodded again.
"Don't forget your training, Obi-Wan. It's neverending. You'll always learn something every day. Now go, Ben. Be free and live a little. The Jedi might need to take a break from keeping this galaxy intact, but they'll never die. What's past is past. It cannot be changed, but only lead us into a bright future. Go in peace and stay safe," he patted Obi- Wan's shoulder.
Obi-Wan looked at it for a second, slightly confused. He felt it as if it was real. But it was real. He had finally made contact with his master, physically in over 10 years. He grasped Qui-Gon's hand firmly, saying one last good-bye – until another time.
"Stay safe, Master," Obi-Wan returned the gesture.
"May the Force guide you always, Ben. I'll see ya around."
"See ya when I see ya, Kai."
Qui-Gon smiled again, stretching from ear to ear. He replaced his hood and turned to walk away. His steps echoed through the air as his ghostly image disappeared beyond the steps. Each step placed a gentle beat in Obi-Wan's mind.
A cold breeze startled Obi-Wan as he wrapped the cloak tightly around him. But, by now, he was in the rain and cold for far too long. He appeared slightly blue, and weak. The rain had drained him of a lot of energy. His mind was tired, especially. He fell back a few steps, falling to his knees dazed. It was as if a drug had been administered into his bloodstream, and was finally kicking in. His eyes grew heavy.
The last thing he remembered was someone calling out his name, as he hit the ground, falling into a deep slumber.
"Obi-Wan? Obi-Wan!" Bail ran out to the Jedi, catching him as he fell.
Padmé followed, pulling the unconscious man to his feet. "Obi-Wan?"
No answer.
To be continued....
No one questioned the Jedi as the funeral ended, several minutes later. They feared it would only crush the Jedi even more. Many high ranking officers directed other troops to report to clearing away the damage, while still keeping an eye for enemies.
No doubt Obi-Wan was in pain. The very brink of the Republic rested in his hands the most. He was the only hope in protecting the last hope for the galaxy. He couldn't let the past dwell in his actions now and in the future.
It would all pass in time. he forced himself to admit. But how long will it take? This will be harder than anything I've faced. The status of the Jedi is no longer where it should be. Why can't I feel anything more than what's in the room? Who else survived?
He left the room and the Temple, undetected. He needed time to think, and the troops were given their assignment. They'd do it and wouldn't think otherwise. He needed to be alone. Wash away the agony and the pain he was feeling. He walked out into the new cleansing rainy world of Coruscant.
Rain means so many things. Rebirth. Cleansing. Endings. Beginnings. Mistakes. Pain. But, right now, it feels so good.
The rain drenched him like a wet dog. He was wet almost instantly, but the cloak would keep him warm for some time. It seemed to display the Force and the world in an all new light. He looked to the sky, seeing the sun trying to peak out of the cloud coverage. He let out a small weak smile and continued the long walk to Padmé's apartment. He ducked into an alley, to avoid bringing so much attention to himself. He couldn't risk it. Not here and he knew that. This was the central place for the stormtroopers. The troopers he once called allies in the Clone Wars, were now set for one thing. Search and destroy threats to the Republic - or the Sith. He took to a fire escape, and followed the path into the pedestrian tube, where barely no one traveled. Many people were indoors avoiding the rain, or elsewhere.
The rain set a trail through the walkway, the sudden change in temperature took Obi-Wan by surprised. He felt as if he was just another human in his cold, drenched cloak. No meaning of the Force or how it worked. Only living in a simple life of making a living in a crushing galaxy. He blinked, feeling the Force surge around him. It was a swirl of colors and feelings in his mind that could not fully be pinpointed. It didn't feel like a threat–but another way to learn.
Two perspectives. A regular. A Jedi. I never realized how much a regular doesn't need to worry about, but yet, not have a clue about. We live in two different worlds, though we breath the same air. Yet, why do I stand here and question this matter when it should be on the danger before me. I'm not safe here, but where do I go? How will I know who survived the battle? How does anyone know, especially with the many battles still going on on other planets?
There were far too many questions Obi-Wan was thinking about that wasn't even necessary, not for a Jedi. Not for him. He was one of the most famous Jedi to have fought in the Clone Wars. The war itself was beginning to end, the treaty between the Republic and Separatists was in the works. Yet, he didn't know what the status on that was.
He walked through the pathway, exited, and continued through the rainy city- jungle. His footsteps hit several puddles, but he didn't care. He was already drenched from head to toe, mostly mentally. It brought pain to him, a headache and dizziness following. He stumbled, as he found himself at the lone steps leading up to Padmé's apartment. He caught his breath, replaying every bit of battle he was ever involved in. From the beginning, to now, and possibly even the distant future.
He shook it all away when he saw a weak figure struggle up the stairs to Padmé's apartment. He didn't hesitate to come to the figure's aide. The aroma around the figure felt so familiar, but Obi-Wan couldn't put his finger on it. Just as the figure got to the top step, it collapsed, falling into the protective arms of Obi-Wan as he retreated up the stairs. The figure came to rest in his strong embrace, as they came to rest on the top step.
He pushed the hood away, and caught a short breath. "Bant?" He was breathless, hurt swelled inside him. "Bant, no."
The Mon Calamarian stirred, looking up at the Jedi who caught her, dazed. "Obi-Wan? Obi, is that you?"
Obi-Wan placed a hand on her arm, relaying a Force-medicine into the young Mon Calamarian he considered his best friend. But even he knew it was too late to save her. He just didn't want to think of it any other way. He didn't want to lose another to the Force, not now, and in such a fashion as this. She was out in the rain for far too long, even for someone who came from the watery planet of Mon Calamari. She winced, quietly, slipping her hand into her cloak. Obi-Wan pulled it aside to see the blaster wounds along her side. On the arm were lacerated cuts from another lightsaber. He caught his breath, examining her, but she pushed his hand away.
She winced again, trying to get to her feet. "I'm fine, Obi-Wan."
Obi-Wan placed a hand on her shoulder, forcing her back into the comfort of his lap. "I wish that were true, my friend, but you're hurt and need medical attention right away."
She smiled. Her silver eyes glistened in the calmness of the rain. "You know, how much I hate hospitals. They never tend to you the way a Healer does, but even sometimes, they think they know better when really all that happened was a bump on the head."
Obi-Wan managed a smile. Despite all she was going through, she could always find a positive solution behind it. "But you're weak, Bant."
She looked beyond his gaze and into the sky. The light inside her was growing small with each breath she took. It shook Obi-Wan to the core.
No. Not another one, please. Not my best friend. Obi-Wan thought painfully.
"Don't feel sorry for me, Obi-Wan. Don't cry. Perhaps it is, in fact, my time to–"
"Don't say that," he forced out from behind trembling lips. "I'm not ready to see you go. Not like this. You should of fled like the other Jedi."
"And miss all the action? Of course not! There is never a day I ever regret becoming a Jedi. And neither should you, Obi-Wan," she held up her hand.
Obi-Wan clamped it in his own. "I could never get you to say 'no' to anything I said. You always had my back, Bant. Especially when Anakin left. Even now. You never abandoned me like everyone else."
"Friends look out for each other, that's what they do, Obi-Wan."
"Yeah, that's what," he choked, "friends do."
Her gaze grew serious. "Don't cry for me, Obi-Wan. Did you cry for Qui- Gon?"
He looked down. "No. I never did. I wanted to, but the tears never fell."
"It is because you knew better. He didn't want to see you cry. You are a Jedi."
"But I cried for Sabé," he admitted. "Why could I cry for her?"
"Perhaps because you loved her more. But still, you loved them both."
Obi-Wan wasn't sure what his friend was trying to prove, but right now it didn't matter. He always told her and Flip almost everything. There was no use hiding it now. "Yes. I did. But, why must you ask me this now, Bant?"
"The way you remember a person is how well they've impacted and effected your life. Sabé had a much bigger impact because she was not like the rest of us. You said she was strong in the Force, but in another way, not like the rest of us Jedi. But it was still pure. Strong. Qui-Gon was much the same way. He knew where he needed to leave his mark, and he passed it along to you. It was only right, since you were his apprentice. He hoped you could pass it along to Anakin, and I know you did. He just doesn't realize it yet."
Obi-Wan held his breath. The events of the last few days played through his head. "But I could of stopped him. Saved him from the Dark Side, but it just didn't work. I couldn't even save the Temple."
"One man cannot do it alone. No one person could. It was a team effort from all the Jedi, Obi-Wan. But they came out victorious for now. Don't let that put you down. We can't lose forever. Light will always conquer the darkness."
"Do you think the galaxy could be saved?" He wanted to know.
She drew in a deep breath and closed her eyes. "No one's future can be discovered with just looking at it through the power of the Force. But by believing also. Do you believe it can be saved?"
"I'm not so sure," he admitted. "I don't really want to think about what would happen if the galaxy could not be saved. What do you think?"
"I believe if a lot of people won't lose hope, then there is still a chance for the galaxy."
He nodded and looked away.
She looked at him again, seeing the extreme loss in his eyes. "I'm sorry...about Anakin."
"I just wasn't quick enough," he whispered. The image of Anakin's body hitting the lava burned through Obi-Wan's mind. "He was just — could one man be powerful enough to destroy an entire galaxy?"
"With greed and power. I wouldn't doubt it," she admitted.
Obi-Wan nodded. The light inside Bant was too weak, now. Far too weak. Obi-Wan pushed back his tears, holding her even closer. He wanted to heal her wounds, but knew it wouldn't do any good. She didn't even accept the offer.
"Don't, Obi-Wan," Bant pleaded. "You can't change the past, but only live in the present to show you the way into the future. I'm not afraid to die."
"I don't want you to go, my friend," he stated.
"We'll each other again, Obi-Wan. When the time permits it."
He nodded again. "Of course, Bant. Until another time."
"See ya around, Ben."
"See ya, Bant. May the Force be with you."
"And guide you into the future, Ben."
Then the life inside the Mon Calamarian burned out, never to be lightened by the light of this world, again. Her silver eyes closed for the last time. Obi-Wan watched as her body disappeared from his grasps, leaving behind the cloak and lightsaber Bant had called her own. He folded the cloak up, took the lightsaber, and buried it in the planter next to the stairs. Obi-Wan looked at it for some time. His mind was an empty void. He could sense the presence of someone near by, but ignored it.
"Obi-Wan," a voice spoke, firmly.
Obi-Wan turned to the voice, to the man who had spoke his name, on the balcony. He didn't have to think twice, knowing exactly who it was. It was the ghostly image of his Master. Qui-Gon Jinn. The wind blew freely through his cloak. The man appeared to age as time permitted, but still held that leonine feature the Jedi have come to know from the maverick Jedi. A small smile was set atop his lips, as Obi-Wan approached him.
"Qui-Gon?" Obi-Wan was hesitant.
Qui-Gon bowed, and walked over to the rail of the balcony. The younger man following much like the apprentice he once was.
In the distance, the sun began to break from the cloudy abyss, revealing the sunset. It was a beautiful sight, after such a gloomy and saddened day. But Obi-Wan didn't seem to notice it, or care too much about it.
"The sunset can be so beautiful," Qui-Gon said, gently.
"Yeah, I guess so," Obi-Wan said, still looking to the ground. He began to form rain balls out of the small puddles sitting on the rail, through the Force. Qui-Gon looked at him, the young Jedi sensing the concern in the elder man. "The sunset reminds me of darkness that sweeps through the area, giving me doubt in believing I'll never see light again. Sometimes, on cold, lonely nights I feel like the sun will never rise up to greet the land anymore."
"You can't possibly believe that, Obi-Wan. Light always conquers all darkness. You have taught me that many times, especially early on in your training."
Obi-Wan flung one of the rainballs into the air, ignoring his old master's comment.
"Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon grew serious.
"I haven't forgotten," he finally looked up to meet the elder man in the eyes. "But I'm not quite sure when I'll actually see the sun as something more than just a giant ball of gas. I don't know, Master, I feel I've lost my ability to contact the Force."
"I know it is a hard time for you, Obi-Wan. It will take time for you to heal from such a tragic event. But you have to be strong. Strong for the rest of the Jedi. Strong for the galaxy. And strong for Padmé," Qui-Gon directed. "But putting the blame on yourself will not make this go away any quicker. It will only lead to deeper scars that may never get fixed. Remember, life is a choice on how you live it. But also choosing the right path for yourself will provide rewards well worth it in the end."
Obi-Wan nodded, slowly. "Yes, Master."
"Protect Padmé," Qui-Gon guided. "You're one of the only people left to protect her. Train the twins in the shadows, and keep them out of the reach of the Empire. The Emperor can't live on forever. The Emperor will have to die, and by that time a new era of Jedi will come into existence. They will bring order back into the galaxy, Obi-Wan. Don't lose hope. Never give up on hope."
"The future is always in motion, Qui-Gon," Obi-Wan flung another rainball into the air.
"That it is, Obi-Wan. It will change as time allows because the future can never be set. Remember that, Obi-Wan."
"I will, Master." Obi-Wan felt a little uneasy.
Qui-Gon looked at the younger Jedi, a small smile spread thinly across his lips. "You think that you failed me, Obi-Wan? You haven't. You never did. You haven't truly failed anyone, except yourself." Obi-Wan's eyebrow rose, confused. "If you can't learn to put the past in the past, then the future will only become worse. You'll find yourself alone and full of guilt, hoping you truly had a shot to change things, but it comes right back at you, and knocks you off your feet. Don't be afraid to move on, but don't rush or wait too long. Trust me, Ben."
"But how will — " Obi-Wan tried to say.
"You will know," Qui-Gon cut him short. "You will know, Ben."
Obi-Wan nodded again.
"Don't forget your training, Obi-Wan. It's neverending. You'll always learn something every day. Now go, Ben. Be free and live a little. The Jedi might need to take a break from keeping this galaxy intact, but they'll never die. What's past is past. It cannot be changed, but only lead us into a bright future. Go in peace and stay safe," he patted Obi- Wan's shoulder.
Obi-Wan looked at it for a second, slightly confused. He felt it as if it was real. But it was real. He had finally made contact with his master, physically in over 10 years. He grasped Qui-Gon's hand firmly, saying one last good-bye – until another time.
"Stay safe, Master," Obi-Wan returned the gesture.
"May the Force guide you always, Ben. I'll see ya around."
"See ya when I see ya, Kai."
Qui-Gon smiled again, stretching from ear to ear. He replaced his hood and turned to walk away. His steps echoed through the air as his ghostly image disappeared beyond the steps. Each step placed a gentle beat in Obi-Wan's mind.
A cold breeze startled Obi-Wan as he wrapped the cloak tightly around him. But, by now, he was in the rain and cold for far too long. He appeared slightly blue, and weak. The rain had drained him of a lot of energy. His mind was tired, especially. He fell back a few steps, falling to his knees dazed. It was as if a drug had been administered into his bloodstream, and was finally kicking in. His eyes grew heavy.
The last thing he remembered was someone calling out his name, as he hit the ground, falling into a deep slumber.
"Obi-Wan? Obi-Wan!" Bail ran out to the Jedi, catching him as he fell.
Padmé followed, pulling the unconscious man to his feet. "Obi-Wan?"
No answer.
To be continued....