AN: Hello, first of all I'd like to thank the people who have said kind things and have encouraged my writing not just on FF.net but on M_A also. Second I have removed the unkind piece of feedback and would like to say to them yes I am a freak but not for the reasons you suggest. I know other slash writers have stopped writing due to closed-minded people and I think that is a tragedy I'd like to say I will not stop writing something I enjoy doing so much. And just in case you missed the SLASH warning in the summery (like someone else) this is SLASH, I am not ashamed of it, I admit to enjoy reading and writing it and if you don't then avoid it and leave the rest of us the hell alone. I will now reward everyone with the next chapter. I loved writing it and the other stories I am currently working on and I hope you enjoy it also. Now that I have had my small rant I shall go away and write a hot Jedi sex scene for one of my unfinished stories. Chocolate covered Jedi to all you lovely people. Tally
Chapter 3- THE GIFT OF ANOTHER.
The two riders depended into the valley at a trot, no longer racing against the time of the seasons. They entered the camp, which was based at the foot of a vertical rock face leaving only three sides to defend. The Jedi council's tents were pressed up against the rock with the camp forming a defensive barrier around them. As Qui-Gon and Ben, rode through the camp the Jedi Master noted that there were too many soldiers to just be the council's guard, but not enough to form a regiment. That meant that these other soldiers were the companies designated to protecting the generals.
After the last Jedi sister had died, the army was taken over by the Jedi council with ten generals to guide them. Looking around and judging from the size of the camp, Qui-Gon guessed there must be two generals in meetings with the council, which was unusual. Something was going on. Becoming more suspicious, Qui-Gon looked closer at the camp and noticed it was divided into three individual companies. However, one group was being ostracised by the other soldiers. They reached the Jedi council's tent but were stopped by a sentry.
"Master Jedi, you may go in. He must say out here." Qui-Gon turned to his companion.
"I'm sorry, Ben."
"That's okay, Qui-Gon. You go in." The Jedi Master dismounted, handing the reigns to Ben, his hand lingering at the slight contact. He gave the other man a faint smile and left him alone. Qui-Gon entered the tent to find the Jedi council and two generals sitting around a large, oblong table. Master Yoda was the first to notice his arrival. He stood from his place at the head of the table and made his way to his Padawan. Yoda was the oldest Jedi alive. He was very short and he spoke with an unusual speech pattern, but he was considered wisest among the council and rumoured to be the most powerful Jedi in the brotherhood.
As Yoda stood, the other occupants stopped talking and noticed Qui-Gon, who moved further into the tent to greet his Master.
"Back you are."
"Yes, my Master and I bring news of the enemy."
"Then sit and tell us what you know." Qui-Gon sat in an unoccupied chair, offering greetings to friends and colleagues. Mace Windu introduced the two generals and their aides who also sat in on the council meeting.
"This is General Deni Woon and his aid Jez K'ans," the two men turned to the newcomer nodding in respect. "And this is acting General Lang Ki'son." This General didn't turn to Qui-Gon but remained staring at the dark skinned Jedi Master, anger written all over his face. "Now, my friend what is it you have to tell us?"
Ben waited outside the tent for all of five seconds then, with a little regret for not telling his new companion where he was going he slipped away further into the mass of soldiers.
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"I have seen the Border. The darkness is already eating into our hard won territory. Their agents get bolder, venturing further into our lands. I did manage to question a Shadow Warrior before he died. There is an army growing under the command of a new Dark lord who goes under the name Darth Maul. It is rumoured he has Jedi powers and it is possible he is a full force user.
"More and more people are turning, specifically force sensitives are targeted as they have more use. They are joining the army that will one day attack us in what may be the last battle." Qui-Gon fell silent looking at the bleak faces that gazed back at him.
"Can the people who've turned be saved?"
"I don't know. It is possible, but there are so many and so few Jedi left, I'm not sure that we would be enough to help them."
"Forgetting Adi's prophecy you are." All eyes turned to the diminutive Jedi Master, "Fifteen years it has almost been, come soon they will."
"We cannot put all our hopes on a prophesy, a chosen one." Qui-Gon listened to the argument go around and around, it sounded as if they had been through this before.
"There is more."
Ben avoided the two other units of soldiers and headed straight for the section that was set apart from the others. He knew why their fellow soldiers were shunning them and he was sorry for it. Looking around, Ben noticed all the little things that had changed since he was last here, reminding him of the length of time he had been away.
/ I didn't mean to be away so long./ The situation with Bruck had not been what he had expected. He hadn't realised his stepbrother had friends in high, dark places./ I didn't think Bruck had fallen so far/
Could he still be saved? Ben didn't know but in his eyes he had already tried and failed. What else was there left to do? With the thought of his stepbrother, the weight of his failures crashed down onto him, but there was little to be done about it except to fight the darkness the only way he knew how and that was within the ranks of the army.
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"What more bad news is there, Qui-Gon?" Qui-Gon looked at his childhood friend, Mace Windu. Time had not been kind to either of them but Mace looked tired and weariness dulled his brown eyes.
"It is of a more personal nature. As I was returning I was attacked by Shadow Warriors, I was unable to sense them. They are apt at using the Force and concealing themselves."
"How did you escape?" General Woon spoke for the first time.
"They attacked me because I was traveling with a man that one of their number, a man named Bruck, wanted. He challenged him and won. Bruck ordered our capture but it was halted by a hooded figure, he seemed very powerful and was definitely in charge. No one disobeyed him, so we left. It is possible he was Darth Maul, but I never saw his face."
"Who is this companion you speak of?"
"His name is Ben."
"Can he be trusted?" Qui-Gon frowned at the man who spoke, the acting general had more or less ignored him throughout the meeting and now he was questioning him.
"I trust him."
"With all due respect Jedi Master Jinn, but you said yourself that you could not detect the shadow warriors, how do you know he is not one of them sent to infiltrate our resistance?" Qui-Gon could feel his anger rising, he did not like what the acting general was implying about Ben. Reminding himself of the code, the Jedi Master explained to the others about Ben, deliberately turning away from Ki'son.
"He was a soldier in the Jedi's guard, I believe he has some Force sense, as he seemed to anticipate the Shadow Warriors' approach. There also seems to be a bond forming between us. I can't really explain it but we seem to be drawn to each other."
"How meet him did you?"
"I was on my way here when I felt an urging in the Force. I followed it and came upon his cabin in the middle of the Border Forest. We spent a couple of days together when his stepbrother Bruck returned. He attacked Ben so I brought him here. That is why Bruck and the Shadow Warriors attacked us."
"Where is he now?"
"Waiting out side. I thought if I got him here he could rejoin the army and find some kind of life again."
"Talk more of this later we will, Padawan, but privately. Now we have other matters to discus."
"Yes, I noticed the tension in the camp. What is going on?" Before Acting General Ki'son could object, Mace explained the situation.
"About a year ago one of the army's generals left. He said he would return, but he remains missing. No one has been able to find him. The problem is that the company assigned to him refuse to be reassigned and when we try to bring in a new general, like Ki'son, they refuse to obey. We need them in the main army or as a guard unit. We are short on men but their loyalty to this missing general is unacceptable."
"Soldiers are appointed posts in guard units because of their loyalty, Mace. You can not blame them for that."
"I know, but for the moment all those troops sit out there waiting for him to return."
"Did he say where he was going?"
"Apparently he received news about his family and had to leave. He headed northwest into the Border Forest but no one has heard from him since. In all likely hood he is dead."
"Believe him dead I do not, the best fighter we had he was. Promoted at a young age for a reason he was."
"Yes I've heard of him, he is well known to the peasants and soldiers as a hero. What was his name?"
"Obi-Wan Kenobi."
"Very like you he is Qui-Gon, believe he could survive out there alone I do."
"Then I wonder what happened to him."
When he reached the other camp the faces around him became more familiar. He smiled as many scrambled to their feet, knocking over things in their haste to salute him. From the corner of his eye he saw Ensign Damy Ogter run on ahead to the main meeting area where a large fire burned all day long.
/At least she will be expecting me./
He continued his own leisurely pace to where he knew Lieutenant Riva, his aide and friend, awaited. He entered the large open area among the sea of tents, all present saluting, showing their respect to the estranged officer. Relief flowed around him, pouring from all those present. Soon it would spread to the rest of the camp as news of the general's return reached them.
"We had just about given up on you."
"Really?" skepticism was clear in Obi-Wan's voice, "Then why are you being avoided by the other soldiers?" Lt Riva casually smiled at one of her oldest friends. She had taken him under her wing fourteen years ago and now he was her commanding officer. She didn't begrudge him his success, there was no need, they were friends.
"Because we didn't give up sooner." Obi-Wan returned the smile; he pulled her into his arms, emotions over welling both of them. They clung to each other for the briefest of moments, gathering their emotions before pulling apart. When they did Obi-Wan wore a mask of cool detachment.
"Listen, Lieutenant I don't have time to explain now but I need my things." Realising that it was her commanding officer speaking and not her friend Riva snapped to attention.
"Yes, Sir. They are in your tent."
"My tent? Aren't you taking the loyalty thing a bit far?"
"Yes, Sir." The role slipped a little, "We always knew you would return." Obi-Wan turned to those present addressing his men for the first time in a year.
"I thank you all for your faith and I promise I will explain all that I can, but later. Right now I have business with the council." He nodded to his Lieutenant who turned and led him to a large round tent just off the meeting area.
Everything he owned that he had left behind was in the tent, neatly put in their places by an unknown, caring hand. He turned to his companion.
"You?" He didn't need to elaborate on his question.
"Yes, it comforted me to have your things set out how you liked them as if you were going to return any moment. It made it easier to believe you were coming home." He moved over to the bed and pulled out a heavy wooden chest from underneath it. It was decorated with carvings of knights fighting, the detail of each person giving the chest life. There was a Jedi crescent carved onto the lid. He opened it to reveal his uniform and his weapons.
"So... Where have you been?" the tone was casual but Obi-Wan could feel the emotion behind it. The desperate need to know. He pulled out his uniform, the black material of a general.
"Attending to some family business."
"That's all you're going to say? You can't leave for a year and give that as you only explanation. We... I deserve more." Obi-Wan shrugged into his jacket, his shoulders slumping with her words.
"I know, Riva but there isn't time now, if you come with me to see the council I will sort out our unit's problem and then I'll explain everything, to everyone." There was hidden meaning that Riva picked up on instantly.
"I get the feeling there is a specific person in that 'everyone'"
"I met someone. I didn't tell him everything, I kind of left bits out."
"Huh... like what?" Obi-Wan continued to dress, adding weapons to his attire.
"Oh, like being a general." The tone was flippant and Obi-Wan wouldn't look at her, as he could imagine the look on her face. But when he did finally turn to see her, all he saw was sympathy.
"Why?"
"It's complicated, now pass me that bag." He pointed to the pack he had dropped when he had entered the tent. Riva did so and watched as Obi-Wan pulled out a large, long, dark brown, hooded cloak and put it on. When it was straightened out she saw the Jedi Brotherhood crescent on its breast.
"Where did you get that?" shock coursed her speak out of turn and a little fear was evident in her voice.
"It was my father's." He explained as he began unwrapping something long and metal from a blue, velvet cloth.
"You have Jedi powers and you didn't tell me?" The fear remained, colouring her voice and the anger had been replaced by hurt, but that did nothing to diminish her curiosity. "What is that?"
When revealed, the object was obviously a silver sword, but not just any sword. It was a Lightsaber, the weapon carried by the Jedi Sisters before they had been wiped out. Only one was known to still exist and that was carried by Qui-Gon Jinn.
Lightsabers weren't like normal swords; they were stronger and almost impossible to break. The owner usually forged them, the Force sensitive pouring light into the metal as it took shape. When it was used during battle it shone, when the Force flowed around its owner giving it a holy hue. The Shadow warriors had something similar but instead of resonating light, their weapons radiated darkness and hate.
"A Lightsaber."
"Dare I ask?" Riva's voice was slightly breathless by her awe of the magnificent weapon. Obi-Wan spoke softly as he attached the saber to his belt.
"It was my mother's." With that he left the tent with an irate Lieutenant at his heels.
"You are a full Jedi and you didn't even bother telling me? Why?" Taking a deep breath to calm her self, she asked again with a less accusing tone. "Why, Obi-Wan?" He turned suddenly, confronting her question with a deep sadness etched on his face.
"I can't explain now, but I needed to hide. Not even the council knew about it. Except Master Yoda."
"Is this another one of those gaps you left in your story when you met this friend of yours?"
"Yes. He is a Jedi too." Those were the last words he said to her before once again striding towards the Jedi council's tent, Lt. Riva matching every step.
As the debate about what to do about the missing General flew around the room, Qui-Gon sat back, quietly feeling within the Force, tension of an important event about to take place.
He was right.
Two figures stood in the doorway, a woman in an army uniform with lieutenant tabs on her collar. She was tall and slender but was not lacking muscle. Instead of taking away from her femininity it only added to her beauty. Qui-Gon cast his eyes over the other, very familiar figure wearing a General's uniform underneath a Jedi robe and something silver attached to his belt caught his eye.
A Lightsaber.
The General stood for a matter of seconds before clearing his throat. Everyone else suddenly noticed the new arrivals.
"Obi-Wan."
So Ben was the General. Qui-Gon couldn't understand why he hadn't made the connection sooner, but he put those thoughts out of his mind to listen to Ben, no, Obi-Wan, talk.
"My apologies, but I believe there is a matter I can clear up. I'm sure Master Jinn has already explained a little as to why I was detained."
"Good to see you again it is, come, have a seat and speak to us you will." Obi-Wan moved further into the tent shadowed by the lieutenant. He sat down opposite Qui-Gon offering the other man a shy smile before he once again turned his attention to the council. Mace spoke then, with suspicion in his deep voice.
"Where did you get that robe and Lightsaber? You show us disrespect by wearing clothes of the Brotherhood when you are not a Jedi."
"I am a Jedi. My parents were both Jedi. I wear my mother's sword and my father's cloak as is my right."
"How can this be? We have looked for full Jedi for a long time and all this time there was one among us."
"True it is, started his training I did. Look what's in front of us we often don't, especially if found the person does not wish to be." Yoda gave Obi-Wan and understanding look.
"You knew?"
"Yes, saw his parents in him immediately I did, has their strengths he does. Son of Orrora and Xanatos Obi-Wan is, needed to hide he did. His stepfather married Orrora to produce a full Jedi so he could turn the child to the dark side and use its power. Orrora dies before she conceived. Lucky for us she did."
"Yes, and now my stepfather is dead."
"Sure you are?"
With Ethes K'arn you can never be sure, but I believe he has passed on, as Bruck believed."
"Ah yes, heard I did. Nothing you could do?"
"No. I could not escape him as he has become powerful like his father. Master Jinn freed me and for that I will be eternally grateful." Qui-Gon studied Obi-Wan and noticed all the small changes in the youth. The scar within him remained, but it was no longer an open wound giving back the life to his soul that the dark part of his stepbrother took.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you everything, Qui-Gon but I was unsure of what you would say, I was afraid you would leave me alone again." Qui-Gon leaned forward, gazing deep into Obi-Wan's eyes, his own turning a misty shade of blue.
"I promised I wouldn't." He whispered. His voice was a low caress that only the young Jedi heard. Obi-Wan shivered from the inside, the fear he had carried for days lifted without a trace as he fell into the blue eyes of the Jedi Master. He leaned forward too, wanting to reach out and touch the other man.
"Now I know you were telling me the truth, thank you." Both had spent so long alone that the realisation that there was another like them who loved them was almost inconceivable. Yet it had happened and the emptiness that never seemed to be gone was filled.
"Alone you are not," The ancient Master seemed to speak their very thoughts. "Managed to find the only other you have. Take over his training you will Qui-Gon. A warrior he already is. Needs to learn the currents of the Force now. The two Jedi warriors there will be. Stronger you will make each other, too old am I to keep up with an apprentice. Need each other you do. End this meeting now we will, other matters can wait till morning." Yoda left the tent and the other occupants soon followed until only Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan and Riva were left.
"Master, this is Lt. Riva. Lieutenant this is Master Jinn." Qui-Gon tried not to show the thrill he felt at hearing his new apprentice call him Master.
"Please, call me Qui-Gon, Lieutenant."
"Only if you call me Riva."
"It would be an honour." The Jedi Master bowed to the young woman, offering his respect.
"Now that that's over with do you think there is any where I could get some food?" Riva looked at Obi-Wan before bursting into laughter.
"Some things never change, do they General?"
"But I'm hungry." He reached out taking Qui-Gon's hand. "And some things have changed."
"You are right, it's good to see you happy." He gave her a huge grin that he had found difficult to suppress.
"Thank you." A faint blush coloured his cheeks at the statement, "I will see you later Lieutenant." Riva took the dismissal as a hint to get lost. She had known Obi-Wan for years and was not offended by his words. Bowing to them, she disappeared into the writhing mass of the camp.
"Ben? Or do I call you Obi-Wan?"
"Either, whichever you prefer." They smiled at each other, basking in the light of their love.
"I hear Generals get their own accommodations."
"That is true."
"I don't suppose you would be willing to share with a shelterless Jedi Master?" Suddenly the air of humour and the joyful tone left Obi-Wan and he grew uncomfortable.
"I'm sorry, Qui-Gon but I do not believe I am ready for that stage in our relationship." He didn't look at the older man, as he spoke not wanting to see the disappointment in Qui-Gon's eyes. But the Jedi Master's hand came up to his face tilting his chin back so he looked into the face of compassion.
"I will not push you Obi-Wan and that is not the reason I wish to be with you." Obi-Wan tried to say something but he was hesitant, afraid of sounding foolish. "Do you believe me?" Obi-Wan nodded unable to form the words. " Then what is it, my Obi-Wan?"
"At night I feel the Darkness all around me, reaching out. If I do sleep, I am plagued by dreams of pain and suffering." Obi-Wan's voice was barely a whisper. "When I lie awake, alone, I can still see his face, hear his voice and feel his touch." Qui-Gon's heart wept for his apprentice's pain.
"I will stay with you and protect you from the dark if you wish safety in my arms. And never fear, it will never go further until you are ready."
"Thank you." They turned together and like Riva, disappeared among the hundreds of people that were the Jedi council's army camp.
The night closed in on the group of soldiers, threatening to consume all light in its complete darkness, but then the stars shone down offering light and reminding all of the power of light over dark and that there was hope.
Obi-Wan was in his tent, so he could not see the stars so he found no solace in their presence. He could feel the Darkness of the world seeping out of the boundaries and back into the land they had won back through war and bloodshed. Night was when it was most powerful. Night was its domain. When feelings of despair were strongest. It fed on uncertainties like a leech, gaining strength and power over the suffering human souls.
The young General lay alone in his bed. Qui-Gon was with Master Yoda and had yet to return to his side. He ached inside from the Jedi Master absence. Now that he had found his light, the dark seemed that much worse when he was gone. Words of hate whispered across his mind, imaginary or real, they still brought fear to the bold soldier.
/Please Qui-Gon, come back./ As if hearing him, Qui-Gon came through the tent flap. He glanced over at the lone figure huddled beneath the covers of the bed, saw the slight shoulders as they shivered, but not from the cold. He crossed the small distance that lay between them and sat next to Obi-Wan.
"Beloved?" as soon as the name left his lips he found his arms full with a warm muscular body. He pulled Obi-Wan closer. "I'm sorry, I should have been here sooner."
"Not your fault. You're here now. I missed you."
"I missed you too." Obi-Wan pulled back a little to look at his face.
"Really?"
"Oh yes. Now lets get you back into bed. It's late and I find I am exhausted from our ride." Obi-Wan nodded, pulling back, allowing Qui-Gon room to remove his boots, cloak and outer leggings and tunics. Once removed, Qui-Gon laid down beside Obi-Wan who instantly snuggled down beside him, seeking contact and warmth.
"Love you." Obi-Wan muttered before he finally let go of consciousness, trusting Qui-Gon to protect his soul from the scratching claws that grabbed at him from beyond the abyss of night.
Qui-Gon lay with Obi-Wan held tightly in his arms, taking comfort in his presence. As the previous day's journey finally caught up with him, he found it impossible to stay awake and soon fell into a dreamless sleep with his beloved shielded in his arms.
Chapter 3- THE GIFT OF ANOTHER.
The two riders depended into the valley at a trot, no longer racing against the time of the seasons. They entered the camp, which was based at the foot of a vertical rock face leaving only three sides to defend. The Jedi council's tents were pressed up against the rock with the camp forming a defensive barrier around them. As Qui-Gon and Ben, rode through the camp the Jedi Master noted that there were too many soldiers to just be the council's guard, but not enough to form a regiment. That meant that these other soldiers were the companies designated to protecting the generals.
After the last Jedi sister had died, the army was taken over by the Jedi council with ten generals to guide them. Looking around and judging from the size of the camp, Qui-Gon guessed there must be two generals in meetings with the council, which was unusual. Something was going on. Becoming more suspicious, Qui-Gon looked closer at the camp and noticed it was divided into three individual companies. However, one group was being ostracised by the other soldiers. They reached the Jedi council's tent but were stopped by a sentry.
"Master Jedi, you may go in. He must say out here." Qui-Gon turned to his companion.
"I'm sorry, Ben."
"That's okay, Qui-Gon. You go in." The Jedi Master dismounted, handing the reigns to Ben, his hand lingering at the slight contact. He gave the other man a faint smile and left him alone. Qui-Gon entered the tent to find the Jedi council and two generals sitting around a large, oblong table. Master Yoda was the first to notice his arrival. He stood from his place at the head of the table and made his way to his Padawan. Yoda was the oldest Jedi alive. He was very short and he spoke with an unusual speech pattern, but he was considered wisest among the council and rumoured to be the most powerful Jedi in the brotherhood.
As Yoda stood, the other occupants stopped talking and noticed Qui-Gon, who moved further into the tent to greet his Master.
"Back you are."
"Yes, my Master and I bring news of the enemy."
"Then sit and tell us what you know." Qui-Gon sat in an unoccupied chair, offering greetings to friends and colleagues. Mace Windu introduced the two generals and their aides who also sat in on the council meeting.
"This is General Deni Woon and his aid Jez K'ans," the two men turned to the newcomer nodding in respect. "And this is acting General Lang Ki'son." This General didn't turn to Qui-Gon but remained staring at the dark skinned Jedi Master, anger written all over his face. "Now, my friend what is it you have to tell us?"
Ben waited outside the tent for all of five seconds then, with a little regret for not telling his new companion where he was going he slipped away further into the mass of soldiers.
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"I have seen the Border. The darkness is already eating into our hard won territory. Their agents get bolder, venturing further into our lands. I did manage to question a Shadow Warrior before he died. There is an army growing under the command of a new Dark lord who goes under the name Darth Maul. It is rumoured he has Jedi powers and it is possible he is a full force user.
"More and more people are turning, specifically force sensitives are targeted as they have more use. They are joining the army that will one day attack us in what may be the last battle." Qui-Gon fell silent looking at the bleak faces that gazed back at him.
"Can the people who've turned be saved?"
"I don't know. It is possible, but there are so many and so few Jedi left, I'm not sure that we would be enough to help them."
"Forgetting Adi's prophecy you are." All eyes turned to the diminutive Jedi Master, "Fifteen years it has almost been, come soon they will."
"We cannot put all our hopes on a prophesy, a chosen one." Qui-Gon listened to the argument go around and around, it sounded as if they had been through this before.
"There is more."
Ben avoided the two other units of soldiers and headed straight for the section that was set apart from the others. He knew why their fellow soldiers were shunning them and he was sorry for it. Looking around, Ben noticed all the little things that had changed since he was last here, reminding him of the length of time he had been away.
/ I didn't mean to be away so long./ The situation with Bruck had not been what he had expected. He hadn't realised his stepbrother had friends in high, dark places./ I didn't think Bruck had fallen so far/
Could he still be saved? Ben didn't know but in his eyes he had already tried and failed. What else was there left to do? With the thought of his stepbrother, the weight of his failures crashed down onto him, but there was little to be done about it except to fight the darkness the only way he knew how and that was within the ranks of the army.
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"What more bad news is there, Qui-Gon?" Qui-Gon looked at his childhood friend, Mace Windu. Time had not been kind to either of them but Mace looked tired and weariness dulled his brown eyes.
"It is of a more personal nature. As I was returning I was attacked by Shadow Warriors, I was unable to sense them. They are apt at using the Force and concealing themselves."
"How did you escape?" General Woon spoke for the first time.
"They attacked me because I was traveling with a man that one of their number, a man named Bruck, wanted. He challenged him and won. Bruck ordered our capture but it was halted by a hooded figure, he seemed very powerful and was definitely in charge. No one disobeyed him, so we left. It is possible he was Darth Maul, but I never saw his face."
"Who is this companion you speak of?"
"His name is Ben."
"Can he be trusted?" Qui-Gon frowned at the man who spoke, the acting general had more or less ignored him throughout the meeting and now he was questioning him.
"I trust him."
"With all due respect Jedi Master Jinn, but you said yourself that you could not detect the shadow warriors, how do you know he is not one of them sent to infiltrate our resistance?" Qui-Gon could feel his anger rising, he did not like what the acting general was implying about Ben. Reminding himself of the code, the Jedi Master explained to the others about Ben, deliberately turning away from Ki'son.
"He was a soldier in the Jedi's guard, I believe he has some Force sense, as he seemed to anticipate the Shadow Warriors' approach. There also seems to be a bond forming between us. I can't really explain it but we seem to be drawn to each other."
"How meet him did you?"
"I was on my way here when I felt an urging in the Force. I followed it and came upon his cabin in the middle of the Border Forest. We spent a couple of days together when his stepbrother Bruck returned. He attacked Ben so I brought him here. That is why Bruck and the Shadow Warriors attacked us."
"Where is he now?"
"Waiting out side. I thought if I got him here he could rejoin the army and find some kind of life again."
"Talk more of this later we will, Padawan, but privately. Now we have other matters to discus."
"Yes, I noticed the tension in the camp. What is going on?" Before Acting General Ki'son could object, Mace explained the situation.
"About a year ago one of the army's generals left. He said he would return, but he remains missing. No one has been able to find him. The problem is that the company assigned to him refuse to be reassigned and when we try to bring in a new general, like Ki'son, they refuse to obey. We need them in the main army or as a guard unit. We are short on men but their loyalty to this missing general is unacceptable."
"Soldiers are appointed posts in guard units because of their loyalty, Mace. You can not blame them for that."
"I know, but for the moment all those troops sit out there waiting for him to return."
"Did he say where he was going?"
"Apparently he received news about his family and had to leave. He headed northwest into the Border Forest but no one has heard from him since. In all likely hood he is dead."
"Believe him dead I do not, the best fighter we had he was. Promoted at a young age for a reason he was."
"Yes I've heard of him, he is well known to the peasants and soldiers as a hero. What was his name?"
"Obi-Wan Kenobi."
"Very like you he is Qui-Gon, believe he could survive out there alone I do."
"Then I wonder what happened to him."
When he reached the other camp the faces around him became more familiar. He smiled as many scrambled to their feet, knocking over things in their haste to salute him. From the corner of his eye he saw Ensign Damy Ogter run on ahead to the main meeting area where a large fire burned all day long.
/At least she will be expecting me./
He continued his own leisurely pace to where he knew Lieutenant Riva, his aide and friend, awaited. He entered the large open area among the sea of tents, all present saluting, showing their respect to the estranged officer. Relief flowed around him, pouring from all those present. Soon it would spread to the rest of the camp as news of the general's return reached them.
"We had just about given up on you."
"Really?" skepticism was clear in Obi-Wan's voice, "Then why are you being avoided by the other soldiers?" Lt Riva casually smiled at one of her oldest friends. She had taken him under her wing fourteen years ago and now he was her commanding officer. She didn't begrudge him his success, there was no need, they were friends.
"Because we didn't give up sooner." Obi-Wan returned the smile; he pulled her into his arms, emotions over welling both of them. They clung to each other for the briefest of moments, gathering their emotions before pulling apart. When they did Obi-Wan wore a mask of cool detachment.
"Listen, Lieutenant I don't have time to explain now but I need my things." Realising that it was her commanding officer speaking and not her friend Riva snapped to attention.
"Yes, Sir. They are in your tent."
"My tent? Aren't you taking the loyalty thing a bit far?"
"Yes, Sir." The role slipped a little, "We always knew you would return." Obi-Wan turned to those present addressing his men for the first time in a year.
"I thank you all for your faith and I promise I will explain all that I can, but later. Right now I have business with the council." He nodded to his Lieutenant who turned and led him to a large round tent just off the meeting area.
Everything he owned that he had left behind was in the tent, neatly put in their places by an unknown, caring hand. He turned to his companion.
"You?" He didn't need to elaborate on his question.
"Yes, it comforted me to have your things set out how you liked them as if you were going to return any moment. It made it easier to believe you were coming home." He moved over to the bed and pulled out a heavy wooden chest from underneath it. It was decorated with carvings of knights fighting, the detail of each person giving the chest life. There was a Jedi crescent carved onto the lid. He opened it to reveal his uniform and his weapons.
"So... Where have you been?" the tone was casual but Obi-Wan could feel the emotion behind it. The desperate need to know. He pulled out his uniform, the black material of a general.
"Attending to some family business."
"That's all you're going to say? You can't leave for a year and give that as you only explanation. We... I deserve more." Obi-Wan shrugged into his jacket, his shoulders slumping with her words.
"I know, Riva but there isn't time now, if you come with me to see the council I will sort out our unit's problem and then I'll explain everything, to everyone." There was hidden meaning that Riva picked up on instantly.
"I get the feeling there is a specific person in that 'everyone'"
"I met someone. I didn't tell him everything, I kind of left bits out."
"Huh... like what?" Obi-Wan continued to dress, adding weapons to his attire.
"Oh, like being a general." The tone was flippant and Obi-Wan wouldn't look at her, as he could imagine the look on her face. But when he did finally turn to see her, all he saw was sympathy.
"Why?"
"It's complicated, now pass me that bag." He pointed to the pack he had dropped when he had entered the tent. Riva did so and watched as Obi-Wan pulled out a large, long, dark brown, hooded cloak and put it on. When it was straightened out she saw the Jedi Brotherhood crescent on its breast.
"Where did you get that?" shock coursed her speak out of turn and a little fear was evident in her voice.
"It was my father's." He explained as he began unwrapping something long and metal from a blue, velvet cloth.
"You have Jedi powers and you didn't tell me?" The fear remained, colouring her voice and the anger had been replaced by hurt, but that did nothing to diminish her curiosity. "What is that?"
When revealed, the object was obviously a silver sword, but not just any sword. It was a Lightsaber, the weapon carried by the Jedi Sisters before they had been wiped out. Only one was known to still exist and that was carried by Qui-Gon Jinn.
Lightsabers weren't like normal swords; they were stronger and almost impossible to break. The owner usually forged them, the Force sensitive pouring light into the metal as it took shape. When it was used during battle it shone, when the Force flowed around its owner giving it a holy hue. The Shadow warriors had something similar but instead of resonating light, their weapons radiated darkness and hate.
"A Lightsaber."
"Dare I ask?" Riva's voice was slightly breathless by her awe of the magnificent weapon. Obi-Wan spoke softly as he attached the saber to his belt.
"It was my mother's." With that he left the tent with an irate Lieutenant at his heels.
"You are a full Jedi and you didn't even bother telling me? Why?" Taking a deep breath to calm her self, she asked again with a less accusing tone. "Why, Obi-Wan?" He turned suddenly, confronting her question with a deep sadness etched on his face.
"I can't explain now, but I needed to hide. Not even the council knew about it. Except Master Yoda."
"Is this another one of those gaps you left in your story when you met this friend of yours?"
"Yes. He is a Jedi too." Those were the last words he said to her before once again striding towards the Jedi council's tent, Lt. Riva matching every step.
As the debate about what to do about the missing General flew around the room, Qui-Gon sat back, quietly feeling within the Force, tension of an important event about to take place.
He was right.
Two figures stood in the doorway, a woman in an army uniform with lieutenant tabs on her collar. She was tall and slender but was not lacking muscle. Instead of taking away from her femininity it only added to her beauty. Qui-Gon cast his eyes over the other, very familiar figure wearing a General's uniform underneath a Jedi robe and something silver attached to his belt caught his eye.
A Lightsaber.
The General stood for a matter of seconds before clearing his throat. Everyone else suddenly noticed the new arrivals.
"Obi-Wan."
So Ben was the General. Qui-Gon couldn't understand why he hadn't made the connection sooner, but he put those thoughts out of his mind to listen to Ben, no, Obi-Wan, talk.
"My apologies, but I believe there is a matter I can clear up. I'm sure Master Jinn has already explained a little as to why I was detained."
"Good to see you again it is, come, have a seat and speak to us you will." Obi-Wan moved further into the tent shadowed by the lieutenant. He sat down opposite Qui-Gon offering the other man a shy smile before he once again turned his attention to the council. Mace spoke then, with suspicion in his deep voice.
"Where did you get that robe and Lightsaber? You show us disrespect by wearing clothes of the Brotherhood when you are not a Jedi."
"I am a Jedi. My parents were both Jedi. I wear my mother's sword and my father's cloak as is my right."
"How can this be? We have looked for full Jedi for a long time and all this time there was one among us."
"True it is, started his training I did. Look what's in front of us we often don't, especially if found the person does not wish to be." Yoda gave Obi-Wan and understanding look.
"You knew?"
"Yes, saw his parents in him immediately I did, has their strengths he does. Son of Orrora and Xanatos Obi-Wan is, needed to hide he did. His stepfather married Orrora to produce a full Jedi so he could turn the child to the dark side and use its power. Orrora dies before she conceived. Lucky for us she did."
"Yes, and now my stepfather is dead."
"Sure you are?"
With Ethes K'arn you can never be sure, but I believe he has passed on, as Bruck believed."
"Ah yes, heard I did. Nothing you could do?"
"No. I could not escape him as he has become powerful like his father. Master Jinn freed me and for that I will be eternally grateful." Qui-Gon studied Obi-Wan and noticed all the small changes in the youth. The scar within him remained, but it was no longer an open wound giving back the life to his soul that the dark part of his stepbrother took.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you everything, Qui-Gon but I was unsure of what you would say, I was afraid you would leave me alone again." Qui-Gon leaned forward, gazing deep into Obi-Wan's eyes, his own turning a misty shade of blue.
"I promised I wouldn't." He whispered. His voice was a low caress that only the young Jedi heard. Obi-Wan shivered from the inside, the fear he had carried for days lifted without a trace as he fell into the blue eyes of the Jedi Master. He leaned forward too, wanting to reach out and touch the other man.
"Now I know you were telling me the truth, thank you." Both had spent so long alone that the realisation that there was another like them who loved them was almost inconceivable. Yet it had happened and the emptiness that never seemed to be gone was filled.
"Alone you are not," The ancient Master seemed to speak their very thoughts. "Managed to find the only other you have. Take over his training you will Qui-Gon. A warrior he already is. Needs to learn the currents of the Force now. The two Jedi warriors there will be. Stronger you will make each other, too old am I to keep up with an apprentice. Need each other you do. End this meeting now we will, other matters can wait till morning." Yoda left the tent and the other occupants soon followed until only Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan and Riva were left.
"Master, this is Lt. Riva. Lieutenant this is Master Jinn." Qui-Gon tried not to show the thrill he felt at hearing his new apprentice call him Master.
"Please, call me Qui-Gon, Lieutenant."
"Only if you call me Riva."
"It would be an honour." The Jedi Master bowed to the young woman, offering his respect.
"Now that that's over with do you think there is any where I could get some food?" Riva looked at Obi-Wan before bursting into laughter.
"Some things never change, do they General?"
"But I'm hungry." He reached out taking Qui-Gon's hand. "And some things have changed."
"You are right, it's good to see you happy." He gave her a huge grin that he had found difficult to suppress.
"Thank you." A faint blush coloured his cheeks at the statement, "I will see you later Lieutenant." Riva took the dismissal as a hint to get lost. She had known Obi-Wan for years and was not offended by his words. Bowing to them, she disappeared into the writhing mass of the camp.
"Ben? Or do I call you Obi-Wan?"
"Either, whichever you prefer." They smiled at each other, basking in the light of their love.
"I hear Generals get their own accommodations."
"That is true."
"I don't suppose you would be willing to share with a shelterless Jedi Master?" Suddenly the air of humour and the joyful tone left Obi-Wan and he grew uncomfortable.
"I'm sorry, Qui-Gon but I do not believe I am ready for that stage in our relationship." He didn't look at the older man, as he spoke not wanting to see the disappointment in Qui-Gon's eyes. But the Jedi Master's hand came up to his face tilting his chin back so he looked into the face of compassion.
"I will not push you Obi-Wan and that is not the reason I wish to be with you." Obi-Wan tried to say something but he was hesitant, afraid of sounding foolish. "Do you believe me?" Obi-Wan nodded unable to form the words. " Then what is it, my Obi-Wan?"
"At night I feel the Darkness all around me, reaching out. If I do sleep, I am plagued by dreams of pain and suffering." Obi-Wan's voice was barely a whisper. "When I lie awake, alone, I can still see his face, hear his voice and feel his touch." Qui-Gon's heart wept for his apprentice's pain.
"I will stay with you and protect you from the dark if you wish safety in my arms. And never fear, it will never go further until you are ready."
"Thank you." They turned together and like Riva, disappeared among the hundreds of people that were the Jedi council's army camp.
The night closed in on the group of soldiers, threatening to consume all light in its complete darkness, but then the stars shone down offering light and reminding all of the power of light over dark and that there was hope.
Obi-Wan was in his tent, so he could not see the stars so he found no solace in their presence. He could feel the Darkness of the world seeping out of the boundaries and back into the land they had won back through war and bloodshed. Night was when it was most powerful. Night was its domain. When feelings of despair were strongest. It fed on uncertainties like a leech, gaining strength and power over the suffering human souls.
The young General lay alone in his bed. Qui-Gon was with Master Yoda and had yet to return to his side. He ached inside from the Jedi Master absence. Now that he had found his light, the dark seemed that much worse when he was gone. Words of hate whispered across his mind, imaginary or real, they still brought fear to the bold soldier.
/Please Qui-Gon, come back./ As if hearing him, Qui-Gon came through the tent flap. He glanced over at the lone figure huddled beneath the covers of the bed, saw the slight shoulders as they shivered, but not from the cold. He crossed the small distance that lay between them and sat next to Obi-Wan.
"Beloved?" as soon as the name left his lips he found his arms full with a warm muscular body. He pulled Obi-Wan closer. "I'm sorry, I should have been here sooner."
"Not your fault. You're here now. I missed you."
"I missed you too." Obi-Wan pulled back a little to look at his face.
"Really?"
"Oh yes. Now lets get you back into bed. It's late and I find I am exhausted from our ride." Obi-Wan nodded, pulling back, allowing Qui-Gon room to remove his boots, cloak and outer leggings and tunics. Once removed, Qui-Gon laid down beside Obi-Wan who instantly snuggled down beside him, seeking contact and warmth.
"Love you." Obi-Wan muttered before he finally let go of consciousness, trusting Qui-Gon to protect his soul from the scratching claws that grabbed at him from beyond the abyss of night.
Qui-Gon lay with Obi-Wan held tightly in his arms, taking comfort in his presence. As the previous day's journey finally caught up with him, he found it impossible to stay awake and soon fell into a dreamless sleep with his beloved shielded in his arms.