Obi-Wan watched the scene before him without really seeing. Jar Jar Binks
had just dived into the lake where Gunga City was hidden. The Queen and
those whom accompanied her were standing on the edge of the lake, nearly
biting off their nails in nervousness. Obi-Wan didn't want to be subject to
the anxiety that seemed to radiate off of them in waves, so he had stepped
away about ten feet to watch and observe.
While he scanned the forrest carefully for any danger, he caught sight of his Master, also standing off to the side and watching for danger. Obi-Wan felt something swell in his chest in a mix of pain, longing, and love. He remembered Sabé's advice on the transport, and his legs began to move, leading him to Qui-Gon. He really didn't want to be the first one to try and mend the bond that had been broken, but Sabé was right. Who knew what was going to happen during this battle?
When he reached Qui-Gon, he stood stonily beside his Master and kept quiet. He had made the first move, but Qui-Gon was going to have to be the one to apologize. Qui-Gon's eyes were blank; he was acting indifferent to Obi- Wan's presence. Obi-Wan looked away coldly to observe the crowd at the edge of the lake again.
Sabé happened to turn around at that moment. She caught Obi-Wan's gaze and grinned encouragingly. He felt a renewed strength coming from her as she sent a small tendril to him through the Force. She wasn't very good at sending feelings yet, so he couldn't quite decipher what it was meant to be. It didn't matter though. Obi-Wan turned his head and was about to speak, but Qui-Gon beat him to it.
"I've been thinking," Qui-Gon said suddenly. His eyes weren't blank anymore. They looked almost afraid -- as if he were afraid he would only sever their bond further. Unwillingly, Obi-Wan felt a burst of compassion and the urgent need to forgive his Master. Qui-Gon turn his gaze to watch the Nubians and as he spoke, the words were uttered so low that Obi-Wan could barely hear them. "We are treading on dangerous ground. If the Queen intends to fight a war, we cannot become involved. Not even in her efforts to persuade the Gungan to join with the Naboo against the Federation, if that's what she intends by coming here. The Jedi have no authority to take sides."
Obi-Wan had come here for an apology -- not a lecture. He felt the anger he had become so accustomed to begin to build. He knew what Qui-Gon was saying: Are you going to let your relationship with the Queen interfere with your teachings and duty? Obi-Wan knew he wouldn't. Sabé meant a lot to him, he would protect her to no costs, but he would not turn his back on the way he had been raised. He wouldn't jump into the war unless it was to block a laser bolt headed for the Queen he was assigned to protect. That, in his opinion, was not out of bounds.
"But we do have authority to protect the Queen," Obi-Wan pointed out. That was all he would do -- protect Sabé.
Qui-Gon moved his eyes to meet Obi-Wan's. There was a proud gling in Qui- Gon's face, and he nodded subtly, understanding Obi-Wan's meaning. "It is a fine line we walk, then."
Obi-Wan understood. Qui-Gon was trusting him, was not going to bother to lecture Obi-Wan. This bit of compassion made Obi-Wan's heart swell unwillingly. "Master," Obi-Wan said suddenly, the desire to bridge the gap between them stronger than ever before. "I behaved badly on Coruscant, and I feel embarrassed. I meant no disrespect to you. I do not wish to be difficult in the matter of the boy." When he finished, he watched his Master apprehensively, his eyes wide, waiting for Qui-Gon's response.
"Nor have you been," Qui-Gon replied, a faint smile of happiness appearing as his Force-signature began to glow in content. Obi-Wan felt relieved like never before. He had been right to take that first step. Both he and Qui- Gon were stubborn people, and Obi-Wan didn't know how long it would have taken them to make up had Sabé not intervened. "You have been honest with me," Qui-Gon continued. "Honesty is never wrong. I did not lie when I told the Council you were ready. You are. I have taught you all I can. You will be a great Jedi, my young Padawan. You are a much wiser man than I am, and you will make me proud."
Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon clasped hands inpulsively, and the bond between them was rekindled. Obi-Wan felt a fire in him that had been blown out along with the widening breach in their bond. He felt more alive and ready than ever before.
The moment was lost, however, when cries of relief were heard. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon turned to see Jar Jar stepping out of the murky water, shaking the drops from his head. "Tis nobody dere! Deysa gone! Some kinda fight, deysa have. Maccaneks, mebbe. Very bombad. Otoh Gunga empty. All Gungans gone. All gone." The sadness the Gungan felt was evident as he looked to the ground, his lips in a grim line.
"Do you think they have been taken to the camps?" Panaka asked.
"More likely they were wiped out," Obi-Wan said in disgust, walking back to the group.
Jar Jar shook his head. "Me no think so," he said reluctantly, as if the information he was about to share was very secretive. "Gungans too smart. Go into hiding. When dey in trubble, go to sacred place."
"Sacred place?" Qui-Gon repeated questioningly.
The Gungan sighed wearily. "Mesa show you."
They traveled the swamp for some time, first skirting the lake, then plunging deep into the forest of massive trees and tall grasses, following a water-screened pathway that connected a series of knolls. Somewhere in the distance, Trade Federation STAPs buzzed and whined as a search for the transport fugitives commenced in earnest. Jar Jar glanced about apprehensively as he picked his way through the mire, but he did not slow.
Finally, they emerged in a clearing of marshy grashes and stands of trees with roots tangled so thickly that they formed what appeared to be an impassible hedge. Jar Jar stopped, sniffed the air speculatively, and nodded. "Dissen it."
He lifted his head and made a strange chittering noise through his billed mouth, the sound echoing eerily in the silence. The group waited, eyes searching the misty gloop.
Suddenly, a few Gungangs arrived, riding kaadu.
"Heydo ho, Cap'n Trapals," Jar Jar greeted cheerfully.
"Binks!" The Gungan hissed. "Notta gain!"
Jar Jar didn't seem the least bit put off. "We come ta see da bass!"
"Ouch time, Binks. Ouch time for alla yousa mebbe, me thinks."
Nevertheless, the Gungan known as Trapals lead the group into the bush and to a clearing. Obi-Wan looked in awed fascination around him. There were refugees of all shapes, sizes, and ages, torn clothing and hungry cries of children. He felt terrible for the beings, and a quick glance at Qui-Gon told him that his compassionate Master's heart was breaking for the creatures.
The Gungans stared in open surprise at the human beings walking through their territory as the Gungans on kaadu brought them to the head of the clearing where the Boss Nass was waiting, his blubbering mouth spitting as he slit his eyes, recognizing Jar Jar in anger.
"Jar Jar Binks," he hissed, "whadda yousa doen back? Yousa s'pose to take dese outlanders and no come back! Yousa pay good this time!" His hands rubbed together in earnest. He seemed to notice the people crowding around him, grouping behind Jar Jar. His eyes narrowed even further in outrage. "Who yousa bring here ta da Gungan sacred place?"
Sabé stepped forward at this point, tilting her head proudly. "I am Amidala, Queen of the Naboo."
"Naboo!" Boss Nass thundered. "No like da Naboo! Yousa bring da maccaneks! Dey bust up our homes! Dey drive us all out!" He lifted an accusing hand to Sabé. "Yousa all bombad! Yousa all die, mebbe!"
Obi-Wan stepped closer to Sabé impulsively, sending her a tendril of strength through their bond. She didn't acknowledge it in any way, but her shoulders straightened suddenly. "We wish to form an alliance with you," she tried again, her voice unwavering.
"We no form nutten wit da Naboo!" Boss Nass roared stubbornly.
Abruptly the handmaiden Obi-Wan recognized as Padmé stepped forward. "Your Honor. *I* am Queen Amidala of the Naboo." Her hand swept to Sabé. "This is my decoy . . . my protection . . . my loyal bodyguard. I am sorry for the deception, but it was necessary given the circumstances."
Obi-Wan stood in numb shock throughout her speech. He felt a smile coming up, and he forced it to return to his heart. Sabé wasn't the Queen . . . Obi-Wan's head was spinning in shock and surprise. Images of various things she had said passed through his brain. If he had only been paying attention, he would have realized it sooner. She wasn't the Queen! The thrill he felt this time threatened to spill into a smile. Qui-Gon turned to look at him, amusement crinkling his eyes. Obi-Wan forced a calm outer- image, wanting to show his Jedi strength. Qui-Gon turned away again, a smirk on his face.
"Although our people do not always agree," Padmé, the *real* Queen Amidala, continued, "we have always lived in peace. Until now. The Trade Federation with its tanks and its 'maccaneks' has destoryed all that we have worked so hard to build. The Gungans are in hiding, and the Naboo have been imprisoned in camps. If we do not act quickly, all that we value will be lost forever."
Padmé stretched out her hands. "I ask you to help us, Your Honor." She paused, then said in a more forceful, strength-filled tone, "No, I *beg* you to help us."
She dropped to her knees, and in turn everyone in her party did so as well. They all looked fearfully and hopefully up at the Gungan leader that held their fate in his fleshy hands. "We are your humble servants, Your Honor," Padmé continued, making her voice loud enough for all the gathering Gungans to hear. "Our fate is in your hands. Please help us."
There was a shocked silence. It abrubtly ended with a deep rumbling sound coming from Boss Nass. At first Obi-Wan thought the worst, and he could tell everyone else did too, but the Gungan leader surprised them all. "Me like dis! Dis good! Yousa no thinka yousa greater den da Gungans! Mebbe we being friends. Yousa stand, Queen Amidoll. Yousa talka wit me, okeday?"
The pressure in the air dropped so suddenly that everyone was aware of the tension they had been feeling. Obi-Wan felt lighter and elated. When he saw Amidala step away from them with Boss Nass's big hand on her shoulder, he pushed his way through the celebrating Nubians to get to Sabé.
She stood stock still when he put a tentative hand on her arm. She turned around slowly, and his bright smile met her dull, saddened eyes. He felt his glee leave him at the utter hopelessness on her face. "What's wrong?" he demanded immediately.
Sabé looked surprised. "I thought you would be angry with me," she said timidly. "I lied to you. It was necessary--"
"For your job," Obi-Wan finished for her. His smile returned as he realized that there was no impending danger. "Sabé, I understand. I'm not angry with you at all. Not even the slightest bit."
The smile that burst forth on Sabé's face rivalled with that of his own. He felt the need to touch her. He let his hand trail from her shoulder to the smooth skin of her neck. "You're no the Queen," he murmered as he let his fingers trail over her skin. She closed her eyes, and her breathing quickened just slightly. He was encouraged by her reaction. "Sabé," he said suddenly. The tone of his voice made her snap her eyes open to look at him expectantly. "I will become a Jedi Knight soon. It is inevitable. When the mess with Anakin Skywalker is cleared, it will happen. I can feel it somewhere deep inside."
Sabé's eyes softened. "We are about to go to war," she whispered. "I could not stand it if anything happened to you, Obi-Wan."
"And I, you," Obi-Wan said. Impulsively, he cupped the back of her neck and stepped closer to her as he spoke once more. "I have grown to care for you more than any other woman I know, Sabé."
Sabé looked a mix of surprise and pleasure. Her eyes panicked suddenly as she looked around them meaningfully. "Obi-Wan, is it the time for this? We are surrounded by people, including Captain Panaka and Master Jinn."
Obi-Wan laughed. "Nobody is paying attention to us." He leaned his head down so that their foreheads were touching, and their eyes met. "Do you have something to say?" he prodded, his voice soft and expecting.
Sabé giggled nervously. She swiped at him lightly with her arm, trying to cover up her giddiness and embarrassment. "You know I feel the same, Obi- Wan." He began to lean closer, wanting to capture her lips with his own, wanting the sweet taste of her on his tongue, wanting her body pressed against his own.
Wisely, Sabé stepped out of his grasp, her eyes warning. "When this is over, when you are a Jedi Knight, come see me again. Tell me the same thing. Until then, though, we must keep our relationship at the friendship we've tried so hard to keep."
Obi-Wan nodded, feeling embarrassed at his impulsive actions. "Rest assured, Sabé, I will come to you first and foremost once I am a full- fledged Jedi Knight."
Sabé smiled, her teeth a dazzling white, her face lit up in pure happiness. "I believe you will."
Obi-Wan couldn't help smiling in return. Everything was going to work out. He knew that the Naboo would win the war -- how could they not? Then he would become a Knight, Qui-Gon would take on Anakin as his apprentice, and he could attempt at a relationship with Sabé. How he would accomplish so, he didn't know just yet, but it had to be done somehow.
It didn't cross his mind once that not everything always goes as planned.
* * * * *
Later that same day, after all of the plans had been finalized, everyone, including Sabé and Obi-Wan, walked through the doors of the main hanger of Theed. Droids stood in protest, but Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon tore them to pieces with their lightsabers as the Naboo freedom fighters shot blasters at them.
"Get to your ships!" Padmé shouted to her pilots, gesturing to the ships frantically.
Obi-Wan felt electrified -- he was looking forward to the upcoming battle. They would win, he was sure of it, and all he wanted was for Naboo to be at peace again. Sabé was just as torn up about the planet as she would have been if she were the real Queen Amidala. He wanted to mend her heart and make her smile again.
Obi-Wan's lips curled up in a momentary distraction as he thought of Sabé. He knew he would become a Jedi Knight sooner rather than later, and something told him that it had to do with this battle. That meant that as soon as the fighting was over with and the viceroy was captured, Obi-Wan could venture into trying to be with Sabé. He still hadn't worked out how yet, but it would happen someday, somehow. Their Force-bond was too strong to deny such a thing.
Obi-Wan continued to fight as he thought, and slowly the droids were becoming smaller in numbers. They were getting farther into the hanger, and the pilots' ships were beginning to start up.
Suddenly the hanger doors burst open and Panaka, Sabé, and the Naboo soldiers came running in from where they had been in combat outside. Obi- Wan felt reassured when he saw that Sabé hadn't been hurt in any way that was visable. The remaining battle droids were quickly overwhelmed and destroyed as everyone focused their fire. They hadn't stood a chance.
The group of them began to slow in front of the exit door. A dark-cloaked figure stepped through the opening to confront them. Obi-Wan felt the giddiness and exhilaration of fighting leave his body when he recognized the figure as the one that Qui-Gon suspected was a Sith. Fighting battle droids was one thing, but Obi-Wan had never encountered a Sith before, he hadn't even studied much about them at the Temple since it was believed they had been wiped out. The demon's yellow eyes were filled with anticipation and rage as he watched them, but he didn't make a move.
Obi-Wan caught Qui-Gon's eye, and it was understood. "You go on ahead," Qui- Gon advised the group around them. The fear in the air was obvious as they all seemed to snap back to reality and began trooping out. As they left, Obi-Wan felt someone squeeze his arm, and when he turned to see Sabé looking up at him fearfully, she sent him a tendril of feeling through the Force. She either was getting better at it, or she was more determined than ever to make it work, because Obi-Wan felt the strength, reassurance, and hope quite clearly. He closed his eyes for just an instant and let the feelings wash over him and supply him with bravery. When he opened his eyes, the Queen's troops were just disappearing through a hallway. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were standing alone in front of the Sith.
In unison, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan removed their capes. Obi-Wan felt fluid once more -- powerful, a part of something bigger than him. The Force was sizzling around them; the bond between Master and Padawan was stronger than ever. Obi-Wan realized how stupid he was to have thought a little boy could break what he and Qui-Gon had. Obi-Wan lit his lightsaber, and he could see his Master had lit his in the same instant.
They each took a side, and with lightsabers raised, they slowly advanced to meet the Sith.
In an instant, lightsabers were clashing; Sith against Jedi. Though the Sith Lord was working with confidence and ease, Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon were quite a match. When working together, they could become one person, their minds one, their lightsabers working in a unison more complete than anything else Obi-Wan had experienced.
As they continued, Obi-Wan became more surprised with every move of the Sith. He was talented -- that much was clear. He was confident too, even more confident than Obi-Wan in a battle. For the first time, Obi-Wan felt something akin to fear begin to work its way into his mind. Accompanying this feeling was a good amount of doubt. They had underestimated their foe, and he only hoped that they could beat him. Never before had he felt like this -- he and his Master were the duo team that many across the galaxy feared. They were reckless but talented. Alone, each was a force to be reckoned with. Together, they were deadly.
It was impossible for Obi-Wan to not have gathered confidence from that. But, though they were defending themselves well against the Sith, they hadn't yet gained an upper hand. Was it possible for the three of them to be so equal that no one would ever win the fight? Obi-Wan banished this thought -- it was insane, and he didn't have time for those kind of thoughts. He needed to focus his strength into his lightsaber as he had never done before. He needed to blank his mind, to rid of the doubt, confusion, and fear. He wouldn't be able to fight well with them clouding his vision.
The fight began to lead out of the main hanger and into a power station of some sort. Catwalks and overhangs twisted and crisscrossed a pit in which a tandem of generators that served teh starship comples was housed. The room was cavernous and filled with the noise of heavy machinery. Ambient light filtered away in clouds of steam and layers of shadows. The Jedi and the Sith Lord battled onto one of the catwalks suspended above the generators, and the metal frame rang with the thudding of their boots and the clash of their lightsabers. Alone in the power station, hidden from the rest of Theed and its occupants, they intensified their struggle.
The Sith leapt from the bridge on which they fought to the one above, strange face shining with the heat of battle and his own insane joy. His yellow eyes glimmered in satisfaction and pleasure. The Jedi followed, Qui- Gon in front and Obi-Wan behind so that the Sith was pinned between them. The Sith didn't bat an eyelash; he slipped into the rhythm they had created, and the move the Jedi had pulled in an attempt to overthrow him was done in vain.
Obi-Wan was shocked to find that the Sith had caught him off balance. With a powerful kick, he was thrown over the side of the catwalk. Obi-Wan heard and saw his Master lunge at the Sith, taking his momentary distraction and turning it against him. The Sith was thrown over the railing as well, but several levels below Obi-Wan. Qui-Gon jumped right after him, using the Sith's shock against him once more. Just as Qui-Gon was turning the fight aggresive, the Sith regained his state of mind and leapt up and raced away, taking the battle in a new direction.
Obi-Wan had recovered from his landing by this time, using all his will to calm his body's cries of protest. He had taken the fall badly. He hadn't had time to twist his body around and land in a crouch, so his whole body had crashed into the catwalk in a twisted position. Obi-Wan ignored the pain and took off after his Master who was following the Sith. Qui-Gon was exhausted, Obi-Wan could tell, but he was also determined. They had finally gotten the Sith to a point where it was possible to win the battle. Qui-Gon would not give up. He chased the Sith into a small door at the far end of the power station and went in swiftly, his legs and arms pumping, his lightsaber flashing.
"Qui-Gon!" Obi-Wan called after him, trying to catch up, but his Master didn't slow. Obi-Wan felt the fear creap up on him again. Alone in his state, Qui-Gon didn't have a chance against the Sith Lord.
He continued on though, trying to catch up with his Master as his Master tried to catch up with the Sith. They were in the door and into a room before they realized what it was. Lasers crisscrossed the wall in a deadly red, and Obi-Wan barely stopped in time. He was breathing hard, and he was feeling fear for his master. All three of them were seperated by the laser walls; the Sith was the farthest down, but Qui-Gon was right behind him. Obi-Wan wouldn't be able to get to his Master in time. Unless . . . if he could use the Force to run, he might be able to catch up with them before the lasers turned again. He had to hope that Qui-Gon could hold the Sith off until then. Feeling at peace now that he had a plan, Obi-Wan worked on calming his breathing. He had to regain his energy.
Qui-Gon was looking at the Sith, and the Sith's yellow eyes were glowing in anticipation that Obi-Wan loathed. Qui-Gon turned just slightly at caught Obi-Wan's eyes. There was a brief moment of understanding, and Qui-Gon knelt on his knees, meditating in the Force, gathering its power to him. He would need the strength of the Force like never before.
Obi-Wan began to prowl his cage in a fury. He should have caught up with Qui-Gon, or Qui-Gon should have waited for him. The only chance they had against the Sith was working together, and Qui-Gon had seperated them. The chance was slim as it was, and Obi-Wan was, put bluntly, scared to the bone. He wasn't sure what would happen when the lasers ceased, but whatever it was couldn't be good. The darkside was permeating the air, clouding everything. Obi-Wan felt unnerved that he couldn't see very far into the future. It had always served him well. Now, though, his Force-senses were muddled and confused. The Sith was sizzling with hatred and darkness, and so the air around him sizzled as well.
As Obi-Wan stared at the Sith, its yellow eyes came into contact with his own. Just as a malicious smile made its way onto the tatooed face, the lasers gave way, turning off in an instant. Before he could think, Obi-Wan took off down the corrider, focusing only on getting to Qui-Gon and the Sith. He was going to make it -- he knew it! He let out a cry, willing Qui- Gon and the Sith to come closer. Just as he was about to make it out, just as he saw Qui-Gon and the Sith engaged in fighting again, the red lasers returned with a buzzing sound, stopping him abruptly. The fury he had felt before gave way to rage and defeat. He hadn't been strong enough to reach them in time, and now his Master had to face the demon alone until the lasers gave way again.
Obi-Wan was again relieved as he watched his Master fight. In meditation, Qui-Gon Jinn had found a renewed sense of strength. He was fighting in close contact, matching stroke for stroke. Obi-Wan felt proud, as he always did when his Master proved people wrong. He had been weak and frail, old and tired, but he was also strong and an incredible swordsman. In satisfaction, Obi-Wan noticed the Sith's yellow eyes begin to look uncertain. Obi-Wan's confidence grew as the Sith's confidence ceased.
The Sith backflipped suddenly, giving himself some space to recover and gather his strength. Qui-Gon didn't miss a beat; he was right on top of the Sith with his lightsaber duelling so fast it was a blur of color. Obi-Wan froze his movements, his eyes boring into the two. Qui-Gon was wavering. He had been carrying on the battle for two long, and his strength was giving way. Just hold on, Obi-Wan thought. He didn't dare send the thought to his Master though, any distracted could prove dangerous. It wouldn't be long before the red lasers gave way though. Obi-Wan knew Qui-Gon could make it a few more seconds. He had to.
Stroke for stroke, Qui-Gon and the Sith battled about the rim of the melting pit, locked ina combat that seemed endless and forever and could be won by neither. Then the Sith Lord parried a downstroke, whirled swiftly to the right, and with his back to the Jedi Master, made a blind, reverse lunge.
It happened so quickly that Obi-Wan wondered if it really happened at all. Yet, at the same time, everything seemed to be in slow motion. The red blade buried itself in Qui-Gon's midsection, and the Jedi Master's face contorted in pain. Obi-Wan heard a scream, a cry of anguish. He thought it was Qui-Gon's, but his Master's lips were still. Obi-Wan realized belatedly that it was his own cry. It was *his* anguish and pain that was screaming through the Force. The Jedi Master took a step back and slumped to the floor. Obi-Wan met the Sith's eyes with a rage that he had never felt before. He clamped his Force sense shut around him, putting barriers up almost immediately.
The red lasers gave way, and Obi-Wan lunged at the Sith, his lightsaber working faster than ever before, fed by his anger and hatred. He didn't care about saving himself. He only cared about killing this demon, about revenge. He attacked the Sith with such power that they both were almost knocked backwards. The gleaming yellow eyes were in fact terrified, but Obi- Wan was blinded by that. The only thing he could see in the Sith's movements and stature was taunting. He set his lightsaber against him in a deadly series of movements that had no plan. He moved it this way and that, and the Sith Lord just barely held him off.
His rage wasn't enough. His fierce determination wasn't enough. It soon became apparent who was the stronger of the two, and it was not Obi-Wan. He was getting worn out. He wouldn't be able to fight off the Sith, just as his Master hadn't been able to. Obi-Wan felt real fear, raw and unlike any he'd ever experienced. His confidence was gone. The only thing left was his will to live.
Obi-Wan saw opportunity. He swiped his lightsaber at the demonic horned head, a killing blow. But he missed completely. The Sith had anticipated his move, and before Obi-Wan knew what was happening he was falling down into darkness. It was only his determination that helped him grab on to a metal rung just below the lip of the pit. He held on helplessly as the Sith looked down at him in triumph.
The Sith was insane. He was giving out joy and satisfaction. He twirled his lightsaber and gloated in his victory. Obi-Wan would not let him win. The odds were against him, true, but he *would* avenge his Master. No matter what it took. He concentrated on settling his nerves, on searching deep inside himself for the place where the Force flowed soothingly. He banished his anger. It would do him no good. Anger was of the darkside, and he couldn't think of how close he had come to being swallowed up by it. Imbued with the power of the Force, he called Qui-Gon's saber to him just as he leaped up in a somersault.
The Sith was shocked, but he had a rage and power that kept him from being off his guard. He leapt around, but he was too late to defend himself. Obi- Wan swiped him 'round the middle with Qui-Gon's lightsaber, effectively slicing the demon in half. The Sith fell backwards into the pit.
Obi-Wan was beyond caring about it, beyond relishing in victory. He shut the lightsaber off and rushed to his Master's side, hoping that Qui-Gon was all right.
"Master!" he breathed in a whisper as he clutched at Qui-Gon's shoulders, bringing his Master onto his lap. Though his Force presence wasn't black with death, Obi-Wan couldn't deny that it was slowly unwinding as his Master slowly died.
Qui-Gon's eyes opened. There was pain there, inevitably, but there was also acceptance. "Too late, my young Padawan."
"No!" Obi-Wan shook his head violently in denial. He felt tears stinging his eyes. He couldn't cry; he had to be strong for Qui-Gon.
"Now you must be ready, whether the Council thinks you so or not. You must be the teacher. Obi-Wan, promise me you will train the boy."
Obi-Wan didn't think. He just nodded, wanting to agree with Qui-Gon, to ease the man's pain in any way that he could. "Yes, Master."
Qui-Gon's lungs began to heave, but he continued on. "He *is* the Chosen One, Obi-Wan. He will bring balance to the Force. Train him well."
Obi-Wan nodded again, his eyes locked with Qui-Gon's. The older man's eyes suddenly glazed over though, and he took a deep shuddering breath that Obi- Wan realized too late was his last.
"Master," Obi-Wan said softly, shaking the man's lifeless form as if he could revive Qui-Gon. He gave up and hugged his body closely. He let his tears spill as he repeated Qui-Gon's name again and again, trying to call his Master back.
While he scanned the forrest carefully for any danger, he caught sight of his Master, also standing off to the side and watching for danger. Obi-Wan felt something swell in his chest in a mix of pain, longing, and love. He remembered Sabé's advice on the transport, and his legs began to move, leading him to Qui-Gon. He really didn't want to be the first one to try and mend the bond that had been broken, but Sabé was right. Who knew what was going to happen during this battle?
When he reached Qui-Gon, he stood stonily beside his Master and kept quiet. He had made the first move, but Qui-Gon was going to have to be the one to apologize. Qui-Gon's eyes were blank; he was acting indifferent to Obi- Wan's presence. Obi-Wan looked away coldly to observe the crowd at the edge of the lake again.
Sabé happened to turn around at that moment. She caught Obi-Wan's gaze and grinned encouragingly. He felt a renewed strength coming from her as she sent a small tendril to him through the Force. She wasn't very good at sending feelings yet, so he couldn't quite decipher what it was meant to be. It didn't matter though. Obi-Wan turned his head and was about to speak, but Qui-Gon beat him to it.
"I've been thinking," Qui-Gon said suddenly. His eyes weren't blank anymore. They looked almost afraid -- as if he were afraid he would only sever their bond further. Unwillingly, Obi-Wan felt a burst of compassion and the urgent need to forgive his Master. Qui-Gon turn his gaze to watch the Nubians and as he spoke, the words were uttered so low that Obi-Wan could barely hear them. "We are treading on dangerous ground. If the Queen intends to fight a war, we cannot become involved. Not even in her efforts to persuade the Gungan to join with the Naboo against the Federation, if that's what she intends by coming here. The Jedi have no authority to take sides."
Obi-Wan had come here for an apology -- not a lecture. He felt the anger he had become so accustomed to begin to build. He knew what Qui-Gon was saying: Are you going to let your relationship with the Queen interfere with your teachings and duty? Obi-Wan knew he wouldn't. Sabé meant a lot to him, he would protect her to no costs, but he would not turn his back on the way he had been raised. He wouldn't jump into the war unless it was to block a laser bolt headed for the Queen he was assigned to protect. That, in his opinion, was not out of bounds.
"But we do have authority to protect the Queen," Obi-Wan pointed out. That was all he would do -- protect Sabé.
Qui-Gon moved his eyes to meet Obi-Wan's. There was a proud gling in Qui- Gon's face, and he nodded subtly, understanding Obi-Wan's meaning. "It is a fine line we walk, then."
Obi-Wan understood. Qui-Gon was trusting him, was not going to bother to lecture Obi-Wan. This bit of compassion made Obi-Wan's heart swell unwillingly. "Master," Obi-Wan said suddenly, the desire to bridge the gap between them stronger than ever before. "I behaved badly on Coruscant, and I feel embarrassed. I meant no disrespect to you. I do not wish to be difficult in the matter of the boy." When he finished, he watched his Master apprehensively, his eyes wide, waiting for Qui-Gon's response.
"Nor have you been," Qui-Gon replied, a faint smile of happiness appearing as his Force-signature began to glow in content. Obi-Wan felt relieved like never before. He had been right to take that first step. Both he and Qui- Gon were stubborn people, and Obi-Wan didn't know how long it would have taken them to make up had Sabé not intervened. "You have been honest with me," Qui-Gon continued. "Honesty is never wrong. I did not lie when I told the Council you were ready. You are. I have taught you all I can. You will be a great Jedi, my young Padawan. You are a much wiser man than I am, and you will make me proud."
Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon clasped hands inpulsively, and the bond between them was rekindled. Obi-Wan felt a fire in him that had been blown out along with the widening breach in their bond. He felt more alive and ready than ever before.
The moment was lost, however, when cries of relief were heard. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon turned to see Jar Jar stepping out of the murky water, shaking the drops from his head. "Tis nobody dere! Deysa gone! Some kinda fight, deysa have. Maccaneks, mebbe. Very bombad. Otoh Gunga empty. All Gungans gone. All gone." The sadness the Gungan felt was evident as he looked to the ground, his lips in a grim line.
"Do you think they have been taken to the camps?" Panaka asked.
"More likely they were wiped out," Obi-Wan said in disgust, walking back to the group.
Jar Jar shook his head. "Me no think so," he said reluctantly, as if the information he was about to share was very secretive. "Gungans too smart. Go into hiding. When dey in trubble, go to sacred place."
"Sacred place?" Qui-Gon repeated questioningly.
The Gungan sighed wearily. "Mesa show you."
They traveled the swamp for some time, first skirting the lake, then plunging deep into the forest of massive trees and tall grasses, following a water-screened pathway that connected a series of knolls. Somewhere in the distance, Trade Federation STAPs buzzed and whined as a search for the transport fugitives commenced in earnest. Jar Jar glanced about apprehensively as he picked his way through the mire, but he did not slow.
Finally, they emerged in a clearing of marshy grashes and stands of trees with roots tangled so thickly that they formed what appeared to be an impassible hedge. Jar Jar stopped, sniffed the air speculatively, and nodded. "Dissen it."
He lifted his head and made a strange chittering noise through his billed mouth, the sound echoing eerily in the silence. The group waited, eyes searching the misty gloop.
Suddenly, a few Gungangs arrived, riding kaadu.
"Heydo ho, Cap'n Trapals," Jar Jar greeted cheerfully.
"Binks!" The Gungan hissed. "Notta gain!"
Jar Jar didn't seem the least bit put off. "We come ta see da bass!"
"Ouch time, Binks. Ouch time for alla yousa mebbe, me thinks."
Nevertheless, the Gungan known as Trapals lead the group into the bush and to a clearing. Obi-Wan looked in awed fascination around him. There were refugees of all shapes, sizes, and ages, torn clothing and hungry cries of children. He felt terrible for the beings, and a quick glance at Qui-Gon told him that his compassionate Master's heart was breaking for the creatures.
The Gungans stared in open surprise at the human beings walking through their territory as the Gungans on kaadu brought them to the head of the clearing where the Boss Nass was waiting, his blubbering mouth spitting as he slit his eyes, recognizing Jar Jar in anger.
"Jar Jar Binks," he hissed, "whadda yousa doen back? Yousa s'pose to take dese outlanders and no come back! Yousa pay good this time!" His hands rubbed together in earnest. He seemed to notice the people crowding around him, grouping behind Jar Jar. His eyes narrowed even further in outrage. "Who yousa bring here ta da Gungan sacred place?"
Sabé stepped forward at this point, tilting her head proudly. "I am Amidala, Queen of the Naboo."
"Naboo!" Boss Nass thundered. "No like da Naboo! Yousa bring da maccaneks! Dey bust up our homes! Dey drive us all out!" He lifted an accusing hand to Sabé. "Yousa all bombad! Yousa all die, mebbe!"
Obi-Wan stepped closer to Sabé impulsively, sending her a tendril of strength through their bond. She didn't acknowledge it in any way, but her shoulders straightened suddenly. "We wish to form an alliance with you," she tried again, her voice unwavering.
"We no form nutten wit da Naboo!" Boss Nass roared stubbornly.
Abruptly the handmaiden Obi-Wan recognized as Padmé stepped forward. "Your Honor. *I* am Queen Amidala of the Naboo." Her hand swept to Sabé. "This is my decoy . . . my protection . . . my loyal bodyguard. I am sorry for the deception, but it was necessary given the circumstances."
Obi-Wan stood in numb shock throughout her speech. He felt a smile coming up, and he forced it to return to his heart. Sabé wasn't the Queen . . . Obi-Wan's head was spinning in shock and surprise. Images of various things she had said passed through his brain. If he had only been paying attention, he would have realized it sooner. She wasn't the Queen! The thrill he felt this time threatened to spill into a smile. Qui-Gon turned to look at him, amusement crinkling his eyes. Obi-Wan forced a calm outer- image, wanting to show his Jedi strength. Qui-Gon turned away again, a smirk on his face.
"Although our people do not always agree," Padmé, the *real* Queen Amidala, continued, "we have always lived in peace. Until now. The Trade Federation with its tanks and its 'maccaneks' has destoryed all that we have worked so hard to build. The Gungans are in hiding, and the Naboo have been imprisoned in camps. If we do not act quickly, all that we value will be lost forever."
Padmé stretched out her hands. "I ask you to help us, Your Honor." She paused, then said in a more forceful, strength-filled tone, "No, I *beg* you to help us."
She dropped to her knees, and in turn everyone in her party did so as well. They all looked fearfully and hopefully up at the Gungan leader that held their fate in his fleshy hands. "We are your humble servants, Your Honor," Padmé continued, making her voice loud enough for all the gathering Gungans to hear. "Our fate is in your hands. Please help us."
There was a shocked silence. It abrubtly ended with a deep rumbling sound coming from Boss Nass. At first Obi-Wan thought the worst, and he could tell everyone else did too, but the Gungan leader surprised them all. "Me like dis! Dis good! Yousa no thinka yousa greater den da Gungans! Mebbe we being friends. Yousa stand, Queen Amidoll. Yousa talka wit me, okeday?"
The pressure in the air dropped so suddenly that everyone was aware of the tension they had been feeling. Obi-Wan felt lighter and elated. When he saw Amidala step away from them with Boss Nass's big hand on her shoulder, he pushed his way through the celebrating Nubians to get to Sabé.
She stood stock still when he put a tentative hand on her arm. She turned around slowly, and his bright smile met her dull, saddened eyes. He felt his glee leave him at the utter hopelessness on her face. "What's wrong?" he demanded immediately.
Sabé looked surprised. "I thought you would be angry with me," she said timidly. "I lied to you. It was necessary--"
"For your job," Obi-Wan finished for her. His smile returned as he realized that there was no impending danger. "Sabé, I understand. I'm not angry with you at all. Not even the slightest bit."
The smile that burst forth on Sabé's face rivalled with that of his own. He felt the need to touch her. He let his hand trail from her shoulder to the smooth skin of her neck. "You're no the Queen," he murmered as he let his fingers trail over her skin. She closed her eyes, and her breathing quickened just slightly. He was encouraged by her reaction. "Sabé," he said suddenly. The tone of his voice made her snap her eyes open to look at him expectantly. "I will become a Jedi Knight soon. It is inevitable. When the mess with Anakin Skywalker is cleared, it will happen. I can feel it somewhere deep inside."
Sabé's eyes softened. "We are about to go to war," she whispered. "I could not stand it if anything happened to you, Obi-Wan."
"And I, you," Obi-Wan said. Impulsively, he cupped the back of her neck and stepped closer to her as he spoke once more. "I have grown to care for you more than any other woman I know, Sabé."
Sabé looked a mix of surprise and pleasure. Her eyes panicked suddenly as she looked around them meaningfully. "Obi-Wan, is it the time for this? We are surrounded by people, including Captain Panaka and Master Jinn."
Obi-Wan laughed. "Nobody is paying attention to us." He leaned his head down so that their foreheads were touching, and their eyes met. "Do you have something to say?" he prodded, his voice soft and expecting.
Sabé giggled nervously. She swiped at him lightly with her arm, trying to cover up her giddiness and embarrassment. "You know I feel the same, Obi- Wan." He began to lean closer, wanting to capture her lips with his own, wanting the sweet taste of her on his tongue, wanting her body pressed against his own.
Wisely, Sabé stepped out of his grasp, her eyes warning. "When this is over, when you are a Jedi Knight, come see me again. Tell me the same thing. Until then, though, we must keep our relationship at the friendship we've tried so hard to keep."
Obi-Wan nodded, feeling embarrassed at his impulsive actions. "Rest assured, Sabé, I will come to you first and foremost once I am a full- fledged Jedi Knight."
Sabé smiled, her teeth a dazzling white, her face lit up in pure happiness. "I believe you will."
Obi-Wan couldn't help smiling in return. Everything was going to work out. He knew that the Naboo would win the war -- how could they not? Then he would become a Knight, Qui-Gon would take on Anakin as his apprentice, and he could attempt at a relationship with Sabé. How he would accomplish so, he didn't know just yet, but it had to be done somehow.
It didn't cross his mind once that not everything always goes as planned.
* * * * *
Later that same day, after all of the plans had been finalized, everyone, including Sabé and Obi-Wan, walked through the doors of the main hanger of Theed. Droids stood in protest, but Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon tore them to pieces with their lightsabers as the Naboo freedom fighters shot blasters at them.
"Get to your ships!" Padmé shouted to her pilots, gesturing to the ships frantically.
Obi-Wan felt electrified -- he was looking forward to the upcoming battle. They would win, he was sure of it, and all he wanted was for Naboo to be at peace again. Sabé was just as torn up about the planet as she would have been if she were the real Queen Amidala. He wanted to mend her heart and make her smile again.
Obi-Wan's lips curled up in a momentary distraction as he thought of Sabé. He knew he would become a Jedi Knight sooner rather than later, and something told him that it had to do with this battle. That meant that as soon as the fighting was over with and the viceroy was captured, Obi-Wan could venture into trying to be with Sabé. He still hadn't worked out how yet, but it would happen someday, somehow. Their Force-bond was too strong to deny such a thing.
Obi-Wan continued to fight as he thought, and slowly the droids were becoming smaller in numbers. They were getting farther into the hanger, and the pilots' ships were beginning to start up.
Suddenly the hanger doors burst open and Panaka, Sabé, and the Naboo soldiers came running in from where they had been in combat outside. Obi- Wan felt reassured when he saw that Sabé hadn't been hurt in any way that was visable. The remaining battle droids were quickly overwhelmed and destroyed as everyone focused their fire. They hadn't stood a chance.
The group of them began to slow in front of the exit door. A dark-cloaked figure stepped through the opening to confront them. Obi-Wan felt the giddiness and exhilaration of fighting leave his body when he recognized the figure as the one that Qui-Gon suspected was a Sith. Fighting battle droids was one thing, but Obi-Wan had never encountered a Sith before, he hadn't even studied much about them at the Temple since it was believed they had been wiped out. The demon's yellow eyes were filled with anticipation and rage as he watched them, but he didn't make a move.
Obi-Wan caught Qui-Gon's eye, and it was understood. "You go on ahead," Qui- Gon advised the group around them. The fear in the air was obvious as they all seemed to snap back to reality and began trooping out. As they left, Obi-Wan felt someone squeeze his arm, and when he turned to see Sabé looking up at him fearfully, she sent him a tendril of feeling through the Force. She either was getting better at it, or she was more determined than ever to make it work, because Obi-Wan felt the strength, reassurance, and hope quite clearly. He closed his eyes for just an instant and let the feelings wash over him and supply him with bravery. When he opened his eyes, the Queen's troops were just disappearing through a hallway. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were standing alone in front of the Sith.
In unison, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan removed their capes. Obi-Wan felt fluid once more -- powerful, a part of something bigger than him. The Force was sizzling around them; the bond between Master and Padawan was stronger than ever. Obi-Wan realized how stupid he was to have thought a little boy could break what he and Qui-Gon had. Obi-Wan lit his lightsaber, and he could see his Master had lit his in the same instant.
They each took a side, and with lightsabers raised, they slowly advanced to meet the Sith.
In an instant, lightsabers were clashing; Sith against Jedi. Though the Sith Lord was working with confidence and ease, Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon were quite a match. When working together, they could become one person, their minds one, their lightsabers working in a unison more complete than anything else Obi-Wan had experienced.
As they continued, Obi-Wan became more surprised with every move of the Sith. He was talented -- that much was clear. He was confident too, even more confident than Obi-Wan in a battle. For the first time, Obi-Wan felt something akin to fear begin to work its way into his mind. Accompanying this feeling was a good amount of doubt. They had underestimated their foe, and he only hoped that they could beat him. Never before had he felt like this -- he and his Master were the duo team that many across the galaxy feared. They were reckless but talented. Alone, each was a force to be reckoned with. Together, they were deadly.
It was impossible for Obi-Wan to not have gathered confidence from that. But, though they were defending themselves well against the Sith, they hadn't yet gained an upper hand. Was it possible for the three of them to be so equal that no one would ever win the fight? Obi-Wan banished this thought -- it was insane, and he didn't have time for those kind of thoughts. He needed to focus his strength into his lightsaber as he had never done before. He needed to blank his mind, to rid of the doubt, confusion, and fear. He wouldn't be able to fight well with them clouding his vision.
The fight began to lead out of the main hanger and into a power station of some sort. Catwalks and overhangs twisted and crisscrossed a pit in which a tandem of generators that served teh starship comples was housed. The room was cavernous and filled with the noise of heavy machinery. Ambient light filtered away in clouds of steam and layers of shadows. The Jedi and the Sith Lord battled onto one of the catwalks suspended above the generators, and the metal frame rang with the thudding of their boots and the clash of their lightsabers. Alone in the power station, hidden from the rest of Theed and its occupants, they intensified their struggle.
The Sith leapt from the bridge on which they fought to the one above, strange face shining with the heat of battle and his own insane joy. His yellow eyes glimmered in satisfaction and pleasure. The Jedi followed, Qui- Gon in front and Obi-Wan behind so that the Sith was pinned between them. The Sith didn't bat an eyelash; he slipped into the rhythm they had created, and the move the Jedi had pulled in an attempt to overthrow him was done in vain.
Obi-Wan was shocked to find that the Sith had caught him off balance. With a powerful kick, he was thrown over the side of the catwalk. Obi-Wan heard and saw his Master lunge at the Sith, taking his momentary distraction and turning it against him. The Sith was thrown over the railing as well, but several levels below Obi-Wan. Qui-Gon jumped right after him, using the Sith's shock against him once more. Just as Qui-Gon was turning the fight aggresive, the Sith regained his state of mind and leapt up and raced away, taking the battle in a new direction.
Obi-Wan had recovered from his landing by this time, using all his will to calm his body's cries of protest. He had taken the fall badly. He hadn't had time to twist his body around and land in a crouch, so his whole body had crashed into the catwalk in a twisted position. Obi-Wan ignored the pain and took off after his Master who was following the Sith. Qui-Gon was exhausted, Obi-Wan could tell, but he was also determined. They had finally gotten the Sith to a point where it was possible to win the battle. Qui-Gon would not give up. He chased the Sith into a small door at the far end of the power station and went in swiftly, his legs and arms pumping, his lightsaber flashing.
"Qui-Gon!" Obi-Wan called after him, trying to catch up, but his Master didn't slow. Obi-Wan felt the fear creap up on him again. Alone in his state, Qui-Gon didn't have a chance against the Sith Lord.
He continued on though, trying to catch up with his Master as his Master tried to catch up with the Sith. They were in the door and into a room before they realized what it was. Lasers crisscrossed the wall in a deadly red, and Obi-Wan barely stopped in time. He was breathing hard, and he was feeling fear for his master. All three of them were seperated by the laser walls; the Sith was the farthest down, but Qui-Gon was right behind him. Obi-Wan wouldn't be able to get to his Master in time. Unless . . . if he could use the Force to run, he might be able to catch up with them before the lasers turned again. He had to hope that Qui-Gon could hold the Sith off until then. Feeling at peace now that he had a plan, Obi-Wan worked on calming his breathing. He had to regain his energy.
Qui-Gon was looking at the Sith, and the Sith's yellow eyes were glowing in anticipation that Obi-Wan loathed. Qui-Gon turned just slightly at caught Obi-Wan's eyes. There was a brief moment of understanding, and Qui-Gon knelt on his knees, meditating in the Force, gathering its power to him. He would need the strength of the Force like never before.
Obi-Wan began to prowl his cage in a fury. He should have caught up with Qui-Gon, or Qui-Gon should have waited for him. The only chance they had against the Sith was working together, and Qui-Gon had seperated them. The chance was slim as it was, and Obi-Wan was, put bluntly, scared to the bone. He wasn't sure what would happen when the lasers ceased, but whatever it was couldn't be good. The darkside was permeating the air, clouding everything. Obi-Wan felt unnerved that he couldn't see very far into the future. It had always served him well. Now, though, his Force-senses were muddled and confused. The Sith was sizzling with hatred and darkness, and so the air around him sizzled as well.
As Obi-Wan stared at the Sith, its yellow eyes came into contact with his own. Just as a malicious smile made its way onto the tatooed face, the lasers gave way, turning off in an instant. Before he could think, Obi-Wan took off down the corrider, focusing only on getting to Qui-Gon and the Sith. He was going to make it -- he knew it! He let out a cry, willing Qui- Gon and the Sith to come closer. Just as he was about to make it out, just as he saw Qui-Gon and the Sith engaged in fighting again, the red lasers returned with a buzzing sound, stopping him abruptly. The fury he had felt before gave way to rage and defeat. He hadn't been strong enough to reach them in time, and now his Master had to face the demon alone until the lasers gave way again.
Obi-Wan was again relieved as he watched his Master fight. In meditation, Qui-Gon Jinn had found a renewed sense of strength. He was fighting in close contact, matching stroke for stroke. Obi-Wan felt proud, as he always did when his Master proved people wrong. He had been weak and frail, old and tired, but he was also strong and an incredible swordsman. In satisfaction, Obi-Wan noticed the Sith's yellow eyes begin to look uncertain. Obi-Wan's confidence grew as the Sith's confidence ceased.
The Sith backflipped suddenly, giving himself some space to recover and gather his strength. Qui-Gon didn't miss a beat; he was right on top of the Sith with his lightsaber duelling so fast it was a blur of color. Obi-Wan froze his movements, his eyes boring into the two. Qui-Gon was wavering. He had been carrying on the battle for two long, and his strength was giving way. Just hold on, Obi-Wan thought. He didn't dare send the thought to his Master though, any distracted could prove dangerous. It wouldn't be long before the red lasers gave way though. Obi-Wan knew Qui-Gon could make it a few more seconds. He had to.
Stroke for stroke, Qui-Gon and the Sith battled about the rim of the melting pit, locked ina combat that seemed endless and forever and could be won by neither. Then the Sith Lord parried a downstroke, whirled swiftly to the right, and with his back to the Jedi Master, made a blind, reverse lunge.
It happened so quickly that Obi-Wan wondered if it really happened at all. Yet, at the same time, everything seemed to be in slow motion. The red blade buried itself in Qui-Gon's midsection, and the Jedi Master's face contorted in pain. Obi-Wan heard a scream, a cry of anguish. He thought it was Qui-Gon's, but his Master's lips were still. Obi-Wan realized belatedly that it was his own cry. It was *his* anguish and pain that was screaming through the Force. The Jedi Master took a step back and slumped to the floor. Obi-Wan met the Sith's eyes with a rage that he had never felt before. He clamped his Force sense shut around him, putting barriers up almost immediately.
The red lasers gave way, and Obi-Wan lunged at the Sith, his lightsaber working faster than ever before, fed by his anger and hatred. He didn't care about saving himself. He only cared about killing this demon, about revenge. He attacked the Sith with such power that they both were almost knocked backwards. The gleaming yellow eyes were in fact terrified, but Obi- Wan was blinded by that. The only thing he could see in the Sith's movements and stature was taunting. He set his lightsaber against him in a deadly series of movements that had no plan. He moved it this way and that, and the Sith Lord just barely held him off.
His rage wasn't enough. His fierce determination wasn't enough. It soon became apparent who was the stronger of the two, and it was not Obi-Wan. He was getting worn out. He wouldn't be able to fight off the Sith, just as his Master hadn't been able to. Obi-Wan felt real fear, raw and unlike any he'd ever experienced. His confidence was gone. The only thing left was his will to live.
Obi-Wan saw opportunity. He swiped his lightsaber at the demonic horned head, a killing blow. But he missed completely. The Sith had anticipated his move, and before Obi-Wan knew what was happening he was falling down into darkness. It was only his determination that helped him grab on to a metal rung just below the lip of the pit. He held on helplessly as the Sith looked down at him in triumph.
The Sith was insane. He was giving out joy and satisfaction. He twirled his lightsaber and gloated in his victory. Obi-Wan would not let him win. The odds were against him, true, but he *would* avenge his Master. No matter what it took. He concentrated on settling his nerves, on searching deep inside himself for the place where the Force flowed soothingly. He banished his anger. It would do him no good. Anger was of the darkside, and he couldn't think of how close he had come to being swallowed up by it. Imbued with the power of the Force, he called Qui-Gon's saber to him just as he leaped up in a somersault.
The Sith was shocked, but he had a rage and power that kept him from being off his guard. He leapt around, but he was too late to defend himself. Obi- Wan swiped him 'round the middle with Qui-Gon's lightsaber, effectively slicing the demon in half. The Sith fell backwards into the pit.
Obi-Wan was beyond caring about it, beyond relishing in victory. He shut the lightsaber off and rushed to his Master's side, hoping that Qui-Gon was all right.
"Master!" he breathed in a whisper as he clutched at Qui-Gon's shoulders, bringing his Master onto his lap. Though his Force presence wasn't black with death, Obi-Wan couldn't deny that it was slowly unwinding as his Master slowly died.
Qui-Gon's eyes opened. There was pain there, inevitably, but there was also acceptance. "Too late, my young Padawan."
"No!" Obi-Wan shook his head violently in denial. He felt tears stinging his eyes. He couldn't cry; he had to be strong for Qui-Gon.
"Now you must be ready, whether the Council thinks you so or not. You must be the teacher. Obi-Wan, promise me you will train the boy."
Obi-Wan didn't think. He just nodded, wanting to agree with Qui-Gon, to ease the man's pain in any way that he could. "Yes, Master."
Qui-Gon's lungs began to heave, but he continued on. "He *is* the Chosen One, Obi-Wan. He will bring balance to the Force. Train him well."
Obi-Wan nodded again, his eyes locked with Qui-Gon's. The older man's eyes suddenly glazed over though, and he took a deep shuddering breath that Obi- Wan realized too late was his last.
"Master," Obi-Wan said softly, shaking the man's lifeless form as if he could revive Qui-Gon. He gave up and hugged his body closely. He let his tears spill as he repeated Qui-Gon's name again and again, trying to call his Master back.