Chapter 12: Disobedience and Punishments

They returned to the hanger, still a mess from the droid attack. But, they were greeted by fellow Jedi Knights and Masters. Qui-Gon eased the speeder into the hanger and put the brakes down. The engines died with a soft hiss of air. The speeder sunk lower, signaling departure.

Anakin got out first. With one hand gripped on Codec's arm, he yanked the assassin out of his seat and onto the floor of the hanger. Codec threw a few curses in Anakin's direction, which prompted Anakin to intentionally trip Codec over one of the droid bits left from the battle.

Jedi Kenobi helped Obi-Wan out of the speeder as Qui-Gon joined Master Windu and Master Yoda, who stood patiently nearby as they trained their eyes on the arriving party.

Master Windu's dark eyes narrowed on the assassin. "I see he's the culprit behind this slaughter," he said as a greeting to Qui-Gon.

Qui-Gon nodded. "He used the droids as a distraction to get to my padawan."

"And your padawan, how is he, hmmmm?" Master Yoda asked.

Qui-Gon looked over his shoulder to see that his padawan stood beside his older self. They were both taking in the destruction, the loss of life, with a look of paled somber. Then, Jedi Kenobi looked down at his younger self, patting his shoulder twice before moving to take over Codec's handling from Anakin.

Obi-Wan moved to stand near his master, bowing his head respectfully to Master Yoda and Master Windu. "Good evening, Masters."

Qui-Gon turned back to the Masters. "As you can see," he responded to the two Council members, "he's alive and unharmed. The attacked was foiled."

"With the exception that we have three dead mechanics and scattered junk around the hanger," Master Windu pointed, eyes casted on the wasteland, "then—yes. The attack failed."

"Yes, it did," Qui-Gon replied tersely. "However, I'm afraid it will not end with this."

Master Yoda peered up at Qui-Gon. "More, you say?"

Qui-Gon side-glanced to where Anakin and Jedi Kenobi stood with the assassin in the distance. "I will explain more in our report to the Council," he said, looking back to Master Yoda.

Master Yoda agreed with a simple bow of his head. "In one hour, you may arrive."

Qui-Gon bowed and led his padawan out of the wreck, passed other Jedi Knights and padawans that arrived at the scene. Anakin and Jedi Kenobi spoke to Master Windu and Master Yoda quietly before they maneuvered the assassin away from the prying eyes. Qui-Gon knew where they two Knights were taking the assassin, but he did not follow. He had to get Obi-Wan back to the apartments.

Without another word spoken to any of the arriving Jedi Knights (despite Garen's efforts to get Obi-Wan's attention), Qui-Gon ushered Obi-Wan away from the scene. His young padawan obediently followed his sweeping movements, not once losing ground.

When they arrived into the apartments, Qui-Gon shut the door. He turned, staring down at his padawan with a disappointed frown. Obi-Wan stared up, but not in the defiant manner. Patient and observant, he waited in the common space with a slight nervousness that he hid well behind his masked composure.

Qui-Gon checked Obi-Wan once over, his brows furrowing close together. "You disobeyed me."

Obi-Wan did not contradict him. "Yes, Master."

"You deliberately disobeyed an order, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon repeated, his words causing Obi-Wan to slightly flinch. But, his padawan stood appropriately, his gaze straight and focused on him. Qui-Gon folded his arms. "I want the reason."

Qui-Gon waited for Obi-Wan's response. The boy took a moment to respond, his mind dissecting his thoughts to find the accurate words. Qui-Gon felt like a parent waiting for the child to sputter out excuses. Lips pressed as he rumbled. "I'm waiting Obi-Wan."

"I thought you and Jedi Kenobi needed assistance," Obi-Wan offered.

Qui-Gon's brow quivered at the remark. "You believe three Jedi Knights need assistance from a padawan who's been training for barely a year?" he said with a questioning gaze that made Obi-Wan's shoulders lower under Qui-Gon's long shadow. "Do you know my reasoning for telling you to stay in the Temple?"

Obi-Wan's eyes fluttered up before casting down. "To keep me safe."

"Yes," Qui-Gon said, moving away from the door and closer to the window. He viewed Coruscant's landscape, the teetering buildings and scaling towers that loomed over the dismal homes below. He took a brief moment to view his home, regaining the sense of familiarity and security until he finally turned back to his padawan, who waited in suspense for Qui-Gon to speak more.

Qui-Gon knew at the beginning that Obi-Wan would be much different from his old padawan. But, his actions today reminded Qui-Gon of Xanatos once again. The emotional, brash boy that demanded attention and constantly tested the limits of his power and position. Xanatos always wanted more. And, no one was above him. It was his way or no one's way.

And Qui-Gon had no need for another Xanatos. "I do what is necessary to keep you and everyone else safe," he replied, austerely. "I don't throw out orders for no reasons. I expect obedience from my own padawan. I expect my padawan to trust me enough to listen to my orders."

"Master, I do trust you," Obi-Wan insisted. "But—the Council ordered that I be accompanied by a Jedi Knight at all times. Only you and my older self were the only two Jedi Knights in the room. I could not follow your order without breaking another."

Qui-Gon shook his head, resigned as he let his hands slip to his waist. "You cannot pick and choose which rules to follow, Obi-Wan," he countered. "That's not how it works. If I give you an order, you must follow even if it does not coincide previous orders. Situations change!"

"Besides, you disobeyed the Council by stepping out of the Temple," Qui-Gon reminded his padawan. "You disobeyed me and the Council by leaving the Temple."

Qui-Gon's big hands wiped his face. "What if that bounty hunter lured us straight to the Sith Lord?" he questioned and Obi-Wan's shoulders hunched in response. "How would we be able to defeat him if we have to also worry about keeping you safe? Or worse—you could have died because I failed to protect you."

Qui-Gon took in the subtle shades of Obi-Wan's shame. He disliked reprimanding the boy, but lessons needed to be learned. "You became a distraction that we could not have," he explained as Obi-Wan's eyes misted. "You understand?"

Obi-Wan strained to nod. "Yes, Master. I understand."

"This isn't like Bandomeer," Qui-Gon quietly reminded and Obi-Wan looked up. "You realize that, correct?"

Obi-Wan gave another strained nod. "Yes, Master."

Qui-Gon took in the disheveled appearance of his padawan. The boy looked disheartened, a shadow casted on the boy's usual placid appearance. It pained Qui-Gon to see Obi-Wan downtrodden, but he needed the scolding. Qui-Gon cannot lose another apprentice. He just…he cannot lose Obi-Wan. And, having those droids attack and chasing after dangerous criminals, Qui-Gon felt a surge of overprotection of his padawan.

But, he was not well prepared to handle the disappointment that dragged Obi-Wan down. Reeling back his frustration, Qui-Gon gently dropped his hands on the boy's shoulders. "Obi-Wan—one day you will be a very powerful Jedi Knight. We already know that," he stated as he somberly watched Obi-Wan trying to hold back the tears. The boy did a miraculous job of keeping it restrained. Not a single teardrop has yet to escape. "But, right now—you're only a padawan. Beginning your training. To keep you from straying off your path, you must follow my lead. You must trust me that I would not put your life in jeopardy."

Obi-Wan blinked, but no tear fell from his eyelashes. "I trust you, Master," he whispered. "I'm sorry that I failed you. I won't do it again."

Qui-Gon resigned, letting a soft chuckle escape. "I wish I could believe that to be true," he said, which made Obi-Wan sink further. "But…you are my padawan. I'm sure you're bound to rebel like me on some occasions."


The Council Meeting was a drag.

Anakin already knew everything Qui-Gon reported. He didn't know why he had to be there. But, Obi-Wan said that the Council requested their presences for the report. Anakin asked if they had to file a report, but Obi-Wan informed him Master Jinn was performing the official report. They were simply asked to accompany.

Not taking center stage, Anakin and Obi-Wan stayed in the back, near the doors. They both stood attentive as taught since an early age to show respect to the Council members and listened to the full report. Anakin didn't pay attention. He let Obi-Wan do the listening and, if anything was incorrect, Anakin was sure that Obi-Wan would correct it without his need.

Anakin disliked the idea of standing in front of the Council. Too many memories of their harsh, disdained expressions seared into his mind. Obi-Wan thought he exaggerated how the Council viewed them, but Anakin knew that many of the Council members disliked him. Feared him, even. Especially Master Windu. He had showed very little manners to him since he joined the Jedi as a nine-year old boy. Barely held back his contempt. Never once did the Jedi Master smile in Anakin's direction, but rather glowered at him even when Anakin performed a wondrous feat. It was difficult to please the Jedi Master and Anakin disliked the strict personality of Master Windu.

Master Yoda held more understanding and quirkier qualities that Anakin appreciated. He wasn't always the strict like Master Windu. He would often show his more comforting, jolly side when he joined the younglings in teaching. Or, sometimes when he showed Anakin a lesson or two through his strange sense of humor. Anakin didn't mind (except when Master Yoda used his gimer stick). The little green troll held a slight rebellious streak that Anakin admired, but Master Yoda often kept that trait under lock and key, rarely showing it to anyone except those who he trusts. But, the troll kept a great sense of humor despite trying times and Anakin appreciated it when he needed something uplifting than the war that surrounded him. It was heartening to know that not all Jedi were strict like Master Yoda or Obi-Wan for that matter.

At least in the beginning, Obi-Wan was strict with him. He restricted Anakin only to the Temple in their early years, hardly got physical such as hugging or clapping him on the back for well-done job—like what Palpatine did for him. But, as the years went on, Obi-Wan became a little more open with his thoughts and feelings. Anakin still remembered the first time Obi-Wan hugged him. He was ten years old, awaken from a nightmare and working on a droid part in the common room to ease his worry. Feeling his anxiety, Obi-Wan came out and sat beside him. Anakin can recall perfectly how Obi-Wan sat beside him, speaking in that cultured tone of voice when he asked if he was all right. Anakin tried to brush it off, but Obi-Wan only stared, waiting. After a few moments, Anakin admitted the dream and waited for Obi-Wan to give him a philosophical quote about it. Much to his surprise, Obi-Wan simply wrapped one arm around Anakin's shoulder, mumbling, "You are okay."

And, since that moment, Anakin grew more relaxed around Obi-Wan and Obi-Wan became more than just a simple Master. He became family. But, Obi-Wan was still a private man. It was just in his nature like it is Anakin's nature to open himself to others.

The report kept going and Anakin's only interest came when Qui-Gon surprised him with a request for Master Yoda to interrogate the assassin. Master Yoda seemed to mull on the request until Qui-Gon explained that the Sith Lord may have manipulated the assassin's memory. Master Yoda obliged to see if he could reconstruct the ruined memory.

Anakin thought that was the end. He turned, ready to head out the doors when Master Windu called upon Padawan Kenobi.

Anakin turned back, glancing at Obi-Wan with a high brow. Obi-Wan shrugged in returned.

Master Windu sat regal in his seat. "Padawan Kenobi," his voice rang in the room that it still everyone. "Do you find Master Jinn's report accurate?"

Padawan Kenobi nodded. "Yes, Master Windu."

Anakin's brows furrowed in confusion. What was the point of asking Padawan Kenobi if the report was correct or not? Wouldn't Obi-Wan be a better person to ask that question?

"Then you are aware that Master Jinn is citing a misconduct against you?"

Misconduct? Anakin couldn't believe it. Were the Council seriously holding a mini-trial against their favorite Jedi? For misconduct? Obi-Wan is the very last person Anakin knew to disobey a rule or command. Unless he had to save lives.

Padawan Kenobi nodded again. "Yes, Master. I'm aware that I disobeyed an order."

"An order that was put in place for your own protection," Master Windu pointed. "You left the Temple on your own accord, violating both Master Jinn's and the Council's trust."

Anakin's mind boggled. It seemed almost hysterically and downright rude for the Council to reprimand Padawan Kenobi for leaving the Temple. He was only trying to help capture the assassin. And, he wasn't in danger at all. Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan and himself were there to prevent anything from happening to the boy.

Yet, they held judgement over him. Ready to carry-out a punishment that was not necessary, but cruel to Anakin's eyes. Anakin crossed his arms tightly, eyes dropping into slits as he glared at the Council. Obi-Wan prodded his mind, trying to ease the bitterness that unsettled him. But, Anakin did not let himself relax. He waited in concern anticipation for what the Council would say next.

Master Windu rested his folded hands on his lap as he stared down at Padawan Kenobi in manner that Anakin found similar to a person of regal status. "For your actions, you will be detained in the detention center for three days—"

"What?"

Anakin's decry reverberated the circular room as he stormed toward the center. "You can't do that!"

The whole Council fell silent. All eyes darted to Anakin with insulted expressions as he rudely interrupted them, taking the floor without permission. They recoiled in their seats, shocked at the outcry. It was not fitting for a Jedi Knight and it shook the Council at the abrasive behavior. Master Windu's face grew tighter as he took in Anakin's heated face. "Jedi Skywalker, you do not have permission to take the floor nor have the ranking to interrupt—"

Anakin cared little for Master Windu's words. "You're treating him like a criminal!"

Qui-Gon side-glanced at Anakin, a frown denting his face while Padawan Kenobi glanced up with raised brows at Anakin's defense. Anakin caught the shift in Qui-Gon's stance as the Jedi Master tried to lean back, mouth parted, "Anakin—"

His words were caught off by Master Windu's short response. "Padawan Kenobi disobeyed—"

"And that calls for imprisonment for three days?" replied Anakin, shortly and he soon forgot that Qui-Gon was trying to get his attention.

"You are stepping out of line, Skywalker," Master Windu warned, his face hardening.

Anakin ignored Master Windu's warning and glared at all the Council members. "He didn't do anything wrong!"

"He disobeyed the Jedi Council and his master," spoke a man with light brown shade skin and long, very dark hair.

Anakin stared crossly at the man, not recognizing the Jedi Master. "That doesn't mean he needs to be treated like an enemy."

"A padawan must learn disciple," graved an ancient being on the far left. "Without discipline, one is unable to find balance."

"Obi-Wan has discipline," assured Anakin, hotly. "He didn't leave the Temple to rebel! He left to help."

"Help or not," Master Windu said testily. "He endangered not only himself, but the mission." The valiant master rested his arms on the both sides of his large chair. "What if the attack was meant to lure Padawan Kenobi out into the open?"

"Or to lure us away from him?" Anakin countered. "I've fought against this Sith Lord multiple times. He would try to isolate Obi-Wan," Anakin stepped next to the padawan, taking an unyielding stance as he eyed the Council. "He's safest with us."

Master Windu interweaved his fingers as he leaned over his seat, dark eyes focused solely on Anakin. "That may be," his voice heavy and regal. "But, his impulsiveness could have endangered lives. We already lost three men tonight. We do not need any more needless casualties."

Anakin watched Padawan Kenobi's head dropped, eyes casted downward from others' glares. And, it infuriated Anakin. They're the reason Obi-Wan held little worth. He took blame for every single fault that occurred and it was because the Council drilled it into his head at an early age.

It wasn't Obi-Wan's fault that those men died. It was Dooku's! He sent the assassin. He ordered Obi-Wan's death. Yet, Dooku is free to roam around Coruscant while Obi-Wan is locked away in the deep depths of the Temple, away from the people he cares because of his desire to help them catch the assassin. It was wrong! All wrong!

A dark shadow hung over Anakin's face as he glared at Master Windu. "You're blaming him for those men's deaths?"

Master Windu tilted his chin up. "I did not say—"

"He didn't asked to be attacked!" Anakin growled, his heart beating feverishly in his chest. "He didn't ask for those men to die! That's D—"

A loud thump reverberated the room and all eyes flashed to Master Yoda, whose gimer stick drilled into the floor by his seat. "Spoken enough, you have, Skywalker," he remarked. "Tolerate disrespect, the Council does not."

"Master Yoda—"

Master Windu's lips thinned into a tight line. "Our decision is final. Padawan Kenobi is to stay in the detention center for three days, allowed to leave only for training."

"That's not—"

His words were silenced when he felt a hand fell on his shoulder, a gentle squeeze that pressured him to back away. Anakin peaked over his shoulder, spying Obi-Wan beside him, a critical look that informed Anakin that he needed to back down.

"Obi-Wan," Anakin began in hopes to get Obi-Wan to side with him, but his old master simply shook his head.

"Let it go, Anakin," Obi-Wan murmured low enough that only Anakin could hear him. "This is not your fight."

"But—"

Obi-Wan again shook a warning to drop the subject. With a light pull, Anakin fell back from the circle, letting Obi-Wan guide him. But, his fingers' curled inward, nails pinched his palm. He gave one last glaring look at the Masters. "Maybe we should be less concerned with punishing a padawan for trying to help and focus more on hunting down the real culprit."

And, with that statement, Anakin marched out of the chamber.


Anakin huffed down the corridor, his strides long and quick that he knew it would be difficult for anyone to catch up to him. Including his Master.

"Anakin…" Obi-Wan called, but Anakin refused to slow his pace.

It was infuriating that the Council treated their "favorite son" so callously. Three days! Alone. In a prison cell. Unable to join his Master or other Jedi Knights. Treated like scum. It was absurd!

How could Obi-Wan respect the Masters so much if they treated him like scum? It boggled Anakin too much that he caused a pulsing headache to erupt. He slowed down and leaned against the wall, using the Force to ease the ache.

Gathering himself, he heard soft steps patter behind him. Drawing in air, Anakin slowly turned to face Obi-Wan. "Why didn't you say anything?"

Obi-Wan's gaze unnerved Anakin. Like Obi-Wan was studying a rambunctious kid rather than a respectful Jedi Knight that he earned. "Don't look at me like that," Anakin snapped. "Why didn't you help?"

Obi-Wan cradled his elbows with his hands. "I didn't think you needed my help to embarrass yourself."

Anakin scowled. "Embarrass myself? I was trying to help you! Or…younger you…" he added, rubbing the side of his face. "They're sending you to the detention centers…for three days!"

"I'm aware."

"And, you don't care?" Anakin maddened, annoyed by his Master's placid demeanor. "You don't care that you're suffering for something that isn't your fault?"

"It is my fault."

"No—it's not!" Anakin cried, frustration boiling his blood, reddening his cheeks. "It's Dooku! He hired that bounty hunter! He got those men killed."

"I'm not blaming myself for their deaths," Obi-Wan corrected. "I'm saying that my disobedience deserves the punishment."

"What disobedience?" Anakin grilled and Obi-Wan gave him a knowing look. Anakin unceremoniously rolled his eyes. "Because you left the Temple? You were only trying to help."

"Was I?" Obi-Wan offered, which befuddled Anakin.

"Of course!" Anakin said. "Why else would you chase down an assassin?"

"I didn't chase down an assassin," Obi-Wan corrected again and he pointed a finger at Anakin. "You did. I only chased you."

Anakin waved off Obi-Wan's statement. "Doesn't matter—you still came to help. Both you and younger you. I don't see why that has to punishable."

Obi-Wan sighed, but not out of irritation. Lines grew along his eyes and he appeared much older than the thirty-seven years he was. "Anakin…the Council isn't punishing my younger self for helping," he began to explain. "They're punishing him for disobeying orders. For not showing respect to both Qui-Gon and the Council."

"And leaving the Temple did that?" Anakin challenged.

"For a Master and Padawan to work well together, they must be able to trust one another," Obi-Wan replied. "If they don't…so many things can happen. Like they said, what if it was a trap? He didn't trust Master Qui-Gon. And, it could have resulted into something much worse. Masters and Padawans need to trust each other to not only succeed, but to also survive." Then Obi-Wan smiled. "I trust you, Anakin. I always have. And, that's why we work well together."

Anakin dropped his chin to his chest. Obi-Wan's words comforted him enormously hearing that his Master trusted him. Anakin knew Obi-Wan trusted him, but just hearing the words made it more real, more sincere than just assumption. It was truth. No matter what—Obi-Wan trusted Anakin.

But, while those truths lightened Anakin's heart, it also blackened it. Obi-Wan trusted him, but did he trust Obi-Wan? He had not told his Master about his marriage to Padme. He kept that a secret, despite Obi-Wan's attempts to talk to him about his feelings towards the senator. Obi-Wan pushed him away, placing his focus on the mission to distract Obi-Wan away from the secret Anakin carried in his heart. Could he tell Obi-Wan now? Inform him of the betrayal? Of the lies he said to his face for years?

Could Anakin really break his Master's heart and trust in just one sentence?

Anakin pushed aside that confliction. He will not ruin the moment. "I trust you too Master," he responded, looking up to see Obi-Wan's calm and understanding features. "I'm—I'm sorry if I embarrass you. It wasn't my intention. I just wanted to—"

"I know," Obi-Wan murmured. "You only tried to defend me from something you thought was unfair. And, perhaps three days is excessive, but the Council do not take disobedience lightly."

"Yes—I know," Anakin replied with a smirk. He's tested the Council's patience multiple times as a padawan. He knew they never take anything lightly. "But, still…I'm sorry."

Obi-Wan patted Anakin on the shoulder. "You'll make it up to me in due time," he said. "Let's just forget this happened. We still need to locate Count Dooku."

Anakin's face scrunched hearing the Sith Lord's name. His fingers curled tightly into his palm. "He's a coward," he gritted. "Using others to do his dirty work."

Obi-Wan tilted his head to the side in agreement. "He is a Count," he said. "He's not used to getting his hands dirty."

Anakin cracked a grin at Obi-Wan's mild joke, a soft chuckle escaping when the turbolift next to them hissed opened. The doors slid open, revealing Qui-Gon Jinn. Anakin looked to his right only to be disappointed. Padawan Kenobi was not there.

Qui-Gon stepped out of the lift, his eyes hard on them. "Found you," he said as a way of greeting. There was no malice in his tone or any signs of distress on the aging Jedi Master's face. But, with a jerk of his hand, he commanded. "Follow me."

The Jedi Master gave no pause to see if the Anakin or Obi-Wan would follow. He turned and strode down the corridor, leaving the two Jedi to contemplate whether to follow or not. Anakin looked back to Obi-Wan, who gave a light shrugged before following in his old Master's steps. And, Anakin trailed after him.

Within minutes, they arrived outside Qui-Gon's apartment and opened the door. He ushered the two Jedi inside the apartment before he quickly shut the door. Anakin side-glanced to Obi-Wan, who stood patiently for his Master to speak what was on his mind.

Qui-Gon locked the apartment doors, trapping them inside. "You're going to tell me everything about this Sith Lord," he ordered as he moved to the sitting area. "You can start with its name."


Obi-Wan shivered.

He never knew it was cold down in the detention centers. Then again, he never came down here before. Always the obedient student. At least, Master Yoda once said that about him. And, now? He curled up on the metal slab of the bed, the orange light blazing his eyes. He turned to face the wall, not wanting to look out in the darkness.

He was alone.

No one else was down here. Just him.

He remembered the last look Qui-Gon gave to him before he departed, leaving him in the care of one of the Jedi Masters in charge of the detention centers. He read disappointment and ashamed all over his master's face.

Obi-Wan sucked in a sharp breath as he experienced a tightening of his abdomen. He let down Qui-Gon. Worse, he did it in front of the entire Jedi Council. He embarrassed his Master in front of the Council, but what really haunted Obi-Wan was rudely disrespecting his Master. He should have listened. He should have trusted Qui-Gon, but…

No buts, Obi-Wan reminded himself. He failed his master. He failed himself.

And, now, he had to suffer the consequences for his failure.

Maybe Qui-Gon was right about him at the beginning. He's not cut out to become a Jedi Knight. He's too emotional. Too much fear. All the beginnings of the Dark Side.

Obi-Wan squeezed his eyes shut. No! Don't think like that, he reminded himself. If Qui-Gon didn't want you, he would have left you on Bandomeer.

And, he didn't. He brought him back to Coruscant to train him as a Jedi. He saw something in him. Saw something that garnered apprenticeship. He thought back, reflecting when he remembered his older self.

Obi-Wan found his older self to be more of a stranger than a reflection of himself. Jedi Kenobi was more composed, cautious and wise than himself. Though soft-spoken, Obi-Wan sensed a great deal of command in the Jedi Knight's voice when he spoke. He was even surprised that Jedi Kenobi's words seemed to reel back Anakin's aggressive attitude toward the Council. Obi-Wan didn't know what his older counterpart said, but it made Anakin stand down. Something Obi-Wan was sure he would have been unable to do.

Yet—didn't his older self just show how great of a Jedi Knight he will become? Isn't it enough to prove to Qui-Gon that he was meant to become a Jedi Knight? That he would not fail him? He's not like Xanatos! He wouldn't betray Qui-Gon.

But, didn't he already? He did not listen to him. He disobeyed Qui-Gon. Broke his trust. Is that why he felt like a failure? Why anxiety gripped his heart? He

Qui-Gon often told him to stop overthinking, to relax and trust the Living Force. To let it flow through him. Obi-Wan tried, but it was hard for him to accept the Living Force as openly as Qui-Gon did. He needed to see all angles, to know the connections and fallouts of his actions. And, the Living Force only made him focus on the now. And, it always worried Obi-Wan what the 'now' meant for the future.

Like, did how did his impulsive behavior affected Qui-Gon? Will Qui-Gon abandoned him?

"Stop worrying," Obi-Wan muttered to himself. "It's only for a few days. And, I'll be better. I will."


"I want a name."

Anakin and Obi-Wan sat across from Qui-Gon. They stayed silent as Qui-Gon asked, once again, for the name of the Sith Lord. Obi-Wan only offered Darth Tyranus, but Qui-Gon wanted the original name. The name the Sith Lord bore before he dedicated his life to the Dark Side.

Anakin kept his mouth pressed into a straight line. He would let Obi-Wan handle Qui-Gon's interrogation. And, it seemed Obi-Wan noted Anakin's refusal to speak. "For the sake of the future," Obi-Wan began. "It's best to not mention the Sith Lord's name. I do not want the Jedi Order to hunt him down for something he has yet to become."

Qui-Gon did not like the answer. "Seems you are more protecting the Sith Lord than helping."

Obi-Wan flinched at the slight. "I have no intentions of protecting a Sith Lord," he assured. "But, I will not condemn a man that has yet to make that decision to turn to the Dark Side. The future is already altering since our arrival. There could be a chance the man may not become a Sith Lord. Remember—the future is always in motion, Master."

Qui-Gon drew back, studying Obi-Wan with despondency. "I see you hang-out with Master Yoda more than me in the future."

Anakin felt Obi-Wan's heart plunge at the comment. If only Qui-Gon knew how…

But, Obi-Wan re-centered himself again, sitting upright on the couch. "Your training is what makes me the person I am, Master," he said. "I know you. You wouldn't want me to reveal anything that would hinder another person's fate."

Anakin watched Qui-Gon re-examine Obi-Wan with contemplation. "Perhaps not," he replied. "But—innocent men died tonight. Obi-Wan nearly died as well," he pointed out to both Obi-Wan and Anakin.

Anakin's shouldered wiggled uncomfortably. Should they tell him? Anakin probed Obi-Wan's mind with the question, but Obi-Wan answered remained the same. The less he knows, the better. But, Anakin could not bare to see Qui-Gon frustrated expression, his desperation to gain information.

Anakin glanced around the apartment, stretching his Force powers to sense any other presence. It was only the three of them. "Speaking of which," he said. "Where's Padawan Kenobi?"

Qui-Gon's eyes slid to Anakin. "I dropped him off at the detention centers," he said. "As per orders of the Jedi Council."

"Will he be all right down there?" Anakin asked.

Qui-Gon nodded, but Anakin caught the unease in Qui-Gon's eyes. "He…he'll be all right. Obi-Wan is strong," he said. "It will give him time to reflect on his mistake."

Anakin scrutinized Qui-Gon, noting the lines underneath the Jedi Master's eyes. "You worry about him though. Being alone down there."

Qui-Gon slowly raised his eyes to Anakin. "I don't like the idea of sending Obi-Wan in the detention centers. It's not my idea of punishment," he admitted, resting his elbows on his knees and hands clasped together in front. "I wanted to renegotiate it, but…"

Qui-Gon's words drifted as he looked directly to Anakin.

Anakin reeled back. "What? Me?"

"Remember?" Obi-Wan whispered from his side. "You made quite a scene."

Anakin glanced from Qui-Gon to Obi-Wan. "I was defending you—little you," he said, adding to Obi-Wan. "You already know that!"

"It was admirable that you defended my padawan," Qui-Gon acknowledged. "To stand up against what you believed to unfair. That's good Anakin."

Anakin went to smile in pride until Qui-Gon continued. "But—you executed it poorly," Qui-Gon pointed out. "You insulted the Council rather than encourage them to change their thinking. You acted emotionally."

A whistling sound from the kitchen erupted their meeting. Qui-Gon stood up and walked to the kitchen, but his words could still be heard. "And emotions are something the Jedi Order frown upon," Qui-Gon called from the kitchen. Within a minute, Qui-Gon returned with a tray of three cups of steaming tea. He passed one to Obi-Wan. "It's Yarba tea, I'm afraid."

"That'll do just fine," Obi-Wan said, taking his cup with gratitude.

Anakin accepted his cup from Qui-Gon, his eyes on the Jedi Master. "Do you?"

"Do I what?" Qui-Gon asked as he settled back into his seat.

"Do you share the same belief about emotions?"

Qui-Gon rose his tea cup to his lips, but paused as he mulled over Anakin's question. "I find emotions make us who we are," he finally answered, "but we must be learn to balance them or else we may lose ourselves."

That was not the answer Anakin expected. Qui-Gon supported the notion of emotions? Well—he shouldn't be too surprised. Qui-Gon was not the typical Jedi Master like the others. He was different. More human than the other robotic Jedi in the Temple (not including Obi-Wan). But, hearing Qui-Gon openly admit that he does not agree with a Jedi Order principal made Anakin feel better. If Qui-Gon didn't like a rule and disregarded it, then why couldn't Anakin? Besides, he agreed with Qui-Gon. Emotions make a person.

Qui-Gon took a long sip of his tea before placing it back on table. "Which returns me to our original discussion," he said, turning the conversation back to the Sith Lord. He leaned in, signaling the importance of his next words to both Anakin and Obi-Wan. Anakin sat straighter, lending an ear to hear Qui-Gon's next plea for information.

Qui-Gon breathed, his chest heaved up once before settling back down. "Why does the Sith Lord have such a keen interest in my padawan?"

Neither Anakin nor Obi-Wan said anything. They both eyed each other quickly, debating whether to answer the question or not.

Obi-Wan turned back to Qui-Gon, pushing his tea cup aside. "He's a Sith Lord," he started. "He simply wants to eliminate a rival. Killing me could help him win."

Anakin saw Qui-Gon mull over Obi-Wan's answer, but he knew the Jedi Master refused to accept it as the true answer. After a moment, Qui-Gon flicked his gaze back to Obi-Wan. "When I meditated…I sensed something odd about the Sith Lord."

Anakin became animated, but fearful. What did Qui-Gon sense? Anakin flashed his eyes to Obi-Wan, who held the same concerned expression. Anakin turned back to Qui-Gon. "You did?"

Qui-Gon slowly nodded. "I sensed a feeling that often does not belong on the Dark Side," he informed the duo before turning his attention to Obi-Wan. "I sensed a great amount of affection from the Sith Lord. Tell me—why does this Sith Lord have these feelings for my padawan?"

The tidbit shocked Anakin. His lungs froze and muscles stiffened. How did Qui-Gon sense Count Dooku's feelings? Does his connection to his former Master still work? Can Qui-Gon penetrate the Sith Lord's mind as well as Anakin can to Obi-Wan? If he could, then Qui-Gon would know who the Sith Lord is. He would be devastated to know his master became a blood-thirsty scum of a Sith Lord.

Anakin turned to Obi-Wan, who sat with his chin in his hand. "It's possible that feelings of his former life may still linger inside of him," Obi-Wan offered as an explanation, "but, his former life is gone. Darth Tyranus holds no true affection for your padawan. He will kill him given the chance. I know—he's tried to kill me."

Qui-Gon rested his hands on top of the table and let out a long sigh. "So—you knew the Sith Lord very well…before he became a Sith Lord?"

Obi-Wan dropped his hand to run it through his hair, giving him a disheveled look that usually fitted Anakin's appearance. "Not really—I knew of him," he replied, fingers lightly tapping his arm, "and he knew of me."

Qui-Gon's eyebrows furrowed. "That does not make sense," he murmured to no one in particular. "How could he feel such strong emotions towards you—or younger you—if you barely knew him?"

"It's misplaced," Obi-Wan said, which surprised Anakin. He didn't think Obi-Wan would offer that particular information. It was too close to revealing the Sith Lord's identity.

"Misplaced how?" Qui-Gon probed.

Obi-Wan leaned back in his seat, resting his hands on his lap. "I remind him of his old friend," he said with a shrug. "But—I'm afraid I'm not the friend he lost. And that—that is what drives him to attack me."

Anakin stared at Obi-Wan for a long moment. He recognized that Obi-Wan altered the facts—or at least looked at it "from a certain point-of-view", but he never imagined that Obi-Wan would give Qui-Gon enough information that, if he pieced it together with thought, could lead all his questions straight to Count Dooku.

"Did you know this 'friend'?" Qui-Gon asked of Obi-Wan.

Obi-Wan nodded, but the look on his face displayed a mixture of somber and nostalgia. "I did. He was a good man."

Qui-Gon brushed his chin in the same manner Obi-Wan often did. Anakin wondered if that is why Obi-Wan does it. "Are you the reason that his friend is dead?" Qui-Gon questioned, though he asked in manner to someone about to detonate a bomb. Cautious, yet ready to accept a completely different reaction.

Obi-Wan drew out a long sigh, his chest rising and falling like gentle waves. He didn't look up at Qui-Gon right away. Anakin could see that Obi-Wan was retreating, looking back on that fateful day on Naboo. The day they both lost Qui-Gon.

Anakin disliked when Obi-Wan retrogressed to the time after Qui-Gon died. He knew his Master felt responsible for Qui-Gon's death. Anytime it was brought up, Obi-Wan retreated into himself, becoming somber as he disappeared—to be alone with his plaguing thoughts.

And, when he returned, Anakin tried to be supportive and remind him that it wasn't his fault. It was the Darth Maul that killed Qui-Gon. Not Obi-Wan. But, it did very little. Obi-Wan would put on a fake smile and lie about being okay.

Anakin turned from Obi-Wan to Qui-Gon, deciding to beat Obi-Wan to the punch and stop himself from suffering. "It wasn't—"

"Yes." Obi-Wan's voice stated, effectively cutting off Anakin's attempt to tell Qui-Gon the truth. "It was my fault. I killed him."

Anakin's jaw locked. "No—it wasn't," he rumbled. "Obi-Wan, you didn't kill him!"

Obi-Wan swept his eyes to Anakin, a haunting memory still echoing deep in his irises. "I did not perform the blow," he admitted, "but it was my misjudgment that got him killed."

"You were doing your best—"

"We can argue all you want Anakin," Obi-Wan interrupted, removing himself from the couch. "But it doesn't change what really occurred. I made a mistake. It cost him his life. I take the blame."

Anakin shook his head vigorously, suddenly very sick of Obi-Wan brushing off his help. "Don't you dare do this," he growled. "You're not responsible for what happened—"

Obi-Wan held out a hand and Anakin stopped talking. "Let's not dwell anymore on the past," he said. "Let's refocus on capturing the Sith Lord."

Anakin wanted to keep arguing about Obi-Wan emotional self-inflection. But, his master was right. They needed to focus back on Dooku. To figure out what his next scheme will be to get a hold of Padawan Kenobi. But, he sent a mental warning to Obi-Wan that their discussion on the Naboo attack was not over.

Obi-Wan ignored the mental prob. "He'll be hiring more bounty hunters," he informed Qui-Gon, who joined around the couch. "But as long as Obi-Wan stays inside…"

"He'll be safe," concluded Qui-Gon, scratching his beard.

Anakin couldn't believe how quickly Obi-Wan turned the conversation in a complete different direction. But, he didn't confront the issue. Instead he offered his opinion. "Unless—of course—he finds a way to lure Obi-Wan out," he said. "Kidnap someone he knows and cares? Use them to get him to come out of the Temple?"

Obi-Wan nodded in contemplation. "It's a possibility. We may have to warn his friends," he said to Qui-Gon.

"Bant and Garen?"

"And Siri," Obi-Wan added, which garnered a surprised look from Qui-Gon. "He may target either of them to get to my younger self."

"We should notify their Masters," Anakin advised. "Inform them of the possibility that their padawans might be in danger."

"I can talk to their Masters," Qui-Gon offered. "I'll advise them to keep a closer watch on their padawans."

Obi-Wan bowed his head in thanks. "That'll give us a tighter area to focus," he said. "We know he's been using docks as his main access to getting into the Temple—we might have to shut them down."

"You mean like closing off access to the Temple?" Anakin said, with slanted brows. "Won't that keep people stuck inside as well?"

Obi-Wan nodded again. "Yes—it's not ideal, but it will keep the Temple more secured and help keep the battle within a certain area. We won't have to endanger innocent civilians."

Anakin rocked his head, listening to Obi-Wan strategize. He joined in, helping Obi-Wan coming up with measured moves to help secure certain areas in the Temple that Padawan Kenobi would occupy more often. The only person not really participating was Qui-Gon.

He stood by, listening to Obi-Wan and Anakin plan out defensive structures and offensive movements. Anakin knew because every now and then, he heard Qui-Gon make a noise. It wasn't a good or bad noise. It seemed more like an acknowledgement that Anakin and Obi-Wan had a good grasp on how to strategize different scenarios.

After a brief hour of planning, they both stopped, letting their drawings on scrap paper and notes litter Qui-Gon's table. They retreated back in their seats, slightly worn from all the actions they endured since the morning. "I think that will have to do for now," Obi-Wan announced. "We can continue working tomorrow morning."

"Great," Anakin groaned. "Something to look forward to."

Obi-Wan playfully elbow Anakin in his side. "Enough of your complaints," he said. "I've had a long, tiring day."

"You're not the only one," Anakin quipped.

"Hmm…" Obi-Wan responded, his eyelids drooping as he peeked to Qui-Gon. "What do you think Master?"

Anakin fluttered his eyes to Qui-Gon, who examined the papers and the notes Obi-Wan and Anakin made during the hour. When Obi-Wan called to him, he lowered one of the papers. "You both seem to know what you're doing," he said so softly that Anakin had trouble if it was because he was too tired to listen carefully or if it was because Qui-Gon seemed disappointed. "Almost like soldiers."

"We are," Anakin replied, his face strained as he tried to restrain a yawn. Then, he added. "Somewhat."

Qui-Gon's mouth twitched before his face became unreadable. He sat with a blank look, eyeing all the tactics he and Obi-Wan drafted to keep Padawan Kenobi safe. Why wasn't he enthralled? He and Obi-Wan just came up with great tactics that would keep Padawan Kenobi safe. Why was he not proud of them?

Something was off. Anakin pushed himself up in his seat. "Are you okay, Qui-Gon?"

Qui-Gon blinked to Anakin. "Yes—I'm fine," he said, his tone emotionless.

Anakin didn't believe him. "Qui-Gon—"

Qui-Gon abruptly got to his feet. "I just realized the time," he announced, not even looking at either Anakin or Obi-Wan. "I need to meet with Master Yoda."

Anakin got up from the couch as so did Obi-Wan. "We'll come with you."

Qui-Gon shook his head, effectively rejecting the offer. "That won't be necessary. Like you and Obi-Wan said," he began, grabbing his robe. "You had a very long, tiring day. Bombs, chasing bounty hunters and being hunted by Jedi Knights for a little bit. Stay and regain your strength. You may sleep here on the couches."

Anakin quizzically stared at the sudden exclusion. "Qui-Gon…"

"I'll return shortly," Qui-Gon assured both Jedi Knights as he adjusted his robe. "Stay and rest. I'll see you tomorrow."

And, without another word, Qui-Gon exited the apartment in a flash, leaving a bewildered Anakin standing in the middle of the common space.

"What was that about?" Anakin questioned Obi-Wan.

Obi-Wan flickered a tired glance to the door. "I wouldn't dwell on it Anakin," he said. "It's just Qui-Gon being himself." Obi-Wan swayed to his feet, letting a yawn escape his lips. "But, he's right. We need to sleep. I'll take this couch and you take the other one."

"Yes, Master," Anakin said, defeated, as Obi-Wan disappeared down the corridor.

Anakin backtracked from the door in time for Obi-Wan to return with an armful of blankets. He tossed one to Anakin, who caught it easily without looking and threw it on the couch. He stretched out, his feet and ankles hanging over the side. Obi-Wan nestled in his own, curled to keep his whole body from dangling over.

Obi-Wan waved his hand toward the switch and the lights vanished, drowning the room in darkness with only the lights from the city dimming the common space.

Anakin flopped onto his back, his eyes on the door where Qui-Gon darted from just moment ago. Anakin pondered over Qui-Gon sudden change in demeanor. What suddenly scared Qui-Gon? It almost seemed like he was terrified of them. Like…he wanted to get away from them. What did they do wrong? Did they say something? What made Qui-Gon run off like that? Run away from them?

Obi-Wan's groan echoed in the dark. "You're dwelling, Anakin."

Anakin twisted his body, looking away from the door. "Sorry Master," he said. "Good night."

"Good night," Obi-Wan murmured through the blanket.