Okay here's the deal.  After a *year*, When We Meet Again is finally completed!  But the ending is completely rewritten and certain parts of the first part are rewritten too.  So to save confusion, the fic is now broken into two parts: part I: the unchanged part, and Part II: the altered ending.

If you were following this story starting way back in April of last year, then pick up in Part II.  Otherwise start from Chapter I.  =) 

When We Meet Again

Chapter I

Obi-Wan brushed his hair out of his face and tried to focus on the present. It was hard. Qui-Gon stood by the doorway, his face unreadable and impassive.

He gave a short nod to his master. No, his former master.

Qui-Gon was equally tense, knowing that the fate between him and Obi-Wan was about to be announced. After the confrontation on Melida/Daan, Qui-Gon was still unsure about the path he wanted to take with the boy.

"Let's go," Qui-Gon said. Obi-Wan thought that just for a second he had seen a look of reassurance in Qui-Gon's eyes, but it was gone. He was sure that it had been there. A flicker of hope rose inside him.

Qui-Gon turned and walked slowly to the door of the Council Chamber. Obi-Wan. His fate has been decided even as I think. But if the council says no, can I fight them for the boy?

He heard Obi-Wan's footfall behind him. The younger Jedi seemed hesitant, seemed anxious. Of course. It is his fate that shall be decided.

Qui-Gon pushed open the doors of the Council room. Thirteen gazes met his and then turned to Obi-Wan. Obi-Wan tried to retain his dignity and composure as each master scrutinized him. He followed Qui-Gon's bow and tried to stay standing.

"Young Kenobi," Mace Windu started, never one to beat around the bush. "You have broken a breach of the Master/Padawan relationship. Such things are not minor and we are still at lost on your future. Of course," Mace paused and looked at Qui-Gon. "The weight of your future lies on Master Qui-Gon."

"What do you mean, Mace?" Qui-Gon asked calmly.

"I mean that you will decide the boy's future. If he becomes your padawan, he will remain a Jedi. So - " Mace paused and laced his fingers together. "The decision is totally yours."

Qui-Gon froze, making no attempt to hide his disbelief. He saw Obi-Wan's eyes slide to his before they turned away, downcast. He couldn't accept the boy, but neither could he crush such a promising boy's hopes.

"Understand we do, that take time, this will," Master Yoda said, interpreting Qui-Gon's thoughts, "Wait, the decision can."

Obi-Wan wiped his palms on his tunic. Qui-Gon didn't look at him, but Obi-Wan could see the indecision streaming through his former master. "Yes, thank-you," Qui-Gon said. "Obi-Wan...where will he stay?"

The masters exchanged a look. "With you for now." Mace sighed and looked pleadingly at Qui-Gon. "We have no room. His old room is someone else's now. I believe that by tomorrow afternoon we can open up a room for him."

"That is all I can reasonably ask," Qui-Gon responded. He bowed and gestured for Obi-Wan to follow him. Obi-Wan hesitated before mimicking Qui-Gon's bow and leaving the room. His cheeks were flushed. To think that the very man he had betrayed would have to decide his future!

He had a very good feeling what Qui-Gon would decide.

They were just out of ear-shot of the Council when Qui-Gon spoke, "Obi-Wan, I want to you realize that my decision is still not solid. I still want you as my apprentice, but you can't just trust someone because you want to."

"I understand," Obi-Wan said, a sinking feeling in his stomach.  I knew it...

"Do you?" Qui-Gon asked gently.

Obi-Wan paused. He didn't feel as if he could just talk to Qui-Gon as if they were still Master and apprentice. The tension was obvious and Obi-Wan could feel the slight coldness that Qui-Gon was harboring towards him. He hesitantly nodded and wished that something would happen so he could get away from the master to sort out his feelings.

"I see," Qui-Gon said simply.

Obi-Wan fidgeted uncomfortably as Qui-Gon looked at him directly. His sharp blue eyes swept over Obi-Wan's tightly clasped hands and nervous composure. "I will be in my quarters," Qui-Gon said.  "Come by whenever you wish."

"Yes, Mas - " Obi-Wan started to say automatically. He quickly corrected himself and blushed. "I'll be there."

Qui-Gon gave the boy one last look before heading off. 

***

Obi-Wan gave a sigh as Qui-Gon walked away. He didn't think he could stand the tension any longer. It seemed obvious to him that Qui-Gon was thinking how to best tell that he no longer wanted Obi-Wan. His footsteps dragged on the cold stone floors as he remembered how he had struggled so madly to become a padawan.

Then he had blown it.

As he walked, he wondered why he had been so stupid. He knew Qui-Gon was still healing from the wounds Xanatos had left. He just had to go and open the wounds again. Obi-Wan had realized from the start that Qui-Gon was sensitive to living things. Despite the master's strength and first-impression coldness, Obi-Wan remembered vividly how Qui-Gon's eyes had sparkled with warmth and respect during those rare moments.

He had counted on Qui-Gon to reassure him during incidents. Even on the way to Bandomeer, Qui-Gon had been gentle when healing Obi-Wan's wounds. Obi-Wan did not realize how he had relied so heavily on Qui-Gon to comfort him.

It was always comfort at a distance, but it was comfort all the same.

Lost in thoughts, Obi-Wan hardly noticed where he was going until he bumped into Bruck.

Bruck's cold eyes filled with pleasure at seeing him.  A knowing smirk strayed on his lips. "Going somewhere, Oafy?"

"Possibly," Obi-Wan replied coolly. He kept his temper in check knowing quite well that a fight would kill any chances he had left.

"Well," Bruck drawled. "I suppose that now you won't go anywhere."

"Is that so?" Obi-Wan bit the inside of his mouth, holding back the angry retort that immediately sprang to his lips.  It wasn't working.

"Yeah," Bruck said. "Too bad your precious master isn't here to hold you back." He laughed. "Oh, wait. You don't have a master anymore."

Obi-Wan felt his frustration bubble up inside him. Rage that had long been restrained from Cerasi's death burned once more. He felt his anger and desperation combine into something that he couldn't control. Fear swam around, forming the familiar trio.

"Be quiet," he said, his voice ominous.

"Make me, Oafy-Wan," Bruck taunted. "Go ahead. Attack. Show me that you're the boss. Too bad Qui-Gon will never see what a pathetic padawan he reared. You can't even show a younger initiate that you, the older experienced apprentice, is the boss."

Obi-Wan struggled with his feelings. He knew Qui-Gon would never accept him again if he blew this one last chance. He knew...

And yet - something deep, something no Jedi could ever sense, rose inside of Obi-Wan. A Jedi does not get easily provoked, Obi-Wan thought even as he struggled with his composure. But as his anger and hatred swirled deep within him, as Bruck continued to taunt him mercilessly, Obi-Wan snapped.

"Shut UP!" he yelled, reaching out and Force-slamming Bruck into the wall.

"Hey, watch it, Oafy!  And watch that temper there of yours...I don't want to think about how the Council will respond when they hear that you hurt a real Jedi.  And sadly you aren't one, anymore, traitor."

That remark did it. All the composure Obi-Wan had struggled for vanished. He straightened, his hands naturally formed the shape of Jedi complexion, and let loose his anger in one powerful eruption. Then the last grip he had had on reality snapped and he fell backwards, reeling.

***

Obi-Wan woke up in the medical bay. He saw no one around and tried to relax. But he remembered. Remembered the look in Bruck's face just as he had done - done - something. He sat up and saw a Healer click her tongue in warning.

"Not so fast, Kenobi," she said. She pushed him back down. "The Council needs to speak with you as does the famous Qui-Gon Jinn."

"What about Bruck?" Obi-Wan asked anxiously, struggling to remember the events of the morning.

She looked seriously at him. "There is no Bruck living in this Temple anymore."

Obi-Wan struggled to consider her words. "How?" he started to ask before clamping his mouth shut. "How can there be no Bruck living in this Temple. I saw him today..." he trailed off as realization hit him.

"Saw him, killed him, what's the difference?" the Healer asked sharply.

Obi-Wan laid back down in shock. Killed? He closed his eyes in trepidation as he recalled the anger he had felt. He recalled the anger that had threatened to overwhelm him...and apparently it had. He opened his eyes again and saw the Healer looking compassionately at him.

"I apologize, Obi-Wan," she said. "I had not meant - I mean, I knew it was an accident. I just hope that the Council and your master will see it the same way a Healer would." She rested a hand on his forehead. "And yes, your master knows," she said, catching his thoughts. "Your anger lit up every Force-sensitive on Coruscant."

Obi-Wan sank back down. So Qui-Gon knew. So everyone knew.

"This will complicate your situation, Obi-Wan," the Healer said gently, feeling his brow. "But if I still know Qui-Gon Jinn, he will stick by you, no matter what. He's stubborn, but he defends the people he takes under his wing until there is nothing left to argue, and then some."

Obi-Wan didn't reply. He was feeling light-headed. He had killed someone. As if to double his guilt, he had killed someone in anger.  What kind of Jedi are you? he thought bitterly.  Sinking in self-hatred, he barely looked up when the door slammed open.

***

Qui-Gon was standing in the doorway, looking so irritated that Obi-Wan tried to look away. "You're coming with me," Qui-Gon said stiffly.

"Now there, Master Jinn," the Healer said rationally. "Obi-Wan is tired. Let him rest awhile before you...discuss the present situation with him."

"Now."

Obi-Wan glanced up at the Healer.  "It's okay.  I'll go," he said, moving to Qui-Gon.  He swallowed hard when disappointed eyes glared down at him.

Qui-Gon's hand clamped down on his shoulder. Obi-Wan winced under the blow. He saw the healer stand up and give Qui-Gon a sharp look.

The hand eased its pressure slightly. Qui-Gon half pushed him out the door before saying angrily. "What in the name of Sith were you doing?"

"Doing?" Obi-Wan said in puzzlement. "I was walking down the hallway when Bruck stopped me. He said something about me being pathetic at my abilities so I - "

"Killed him," Qui-Gon finished. He leveled a glare at Obi-Wan and saw the boy look away uncomfortably.

Obi-Wan looked sullen. "That's not the whole story," he said softly.

"Listen, Obi-Wan Kenobi," Qui-Gon ordered sharply. "I would have not cared if he had told you that you were the only person in the Temple who can't beat a referee droid. The point is you, not him. You couldn't control your anger and you know that this is not the first time this has happened."

Obi-Wan wanted to cry out in frustration. He instead remained silent and struggled to consider Qui-Gon's words.

"You may have very well killed your chance of being a Jedi," Qui-Gon said. He looked at Obi-Wan carefully. "Obi-Wan, this is what I meant. This is what almost prevented you from being a Jedi. This is what is now preventing you from being a Jedi. Just what exactly do you want to prove?"

"Nothing!" Obi-Wan cried out. "Qui-Gon, I do regret killing Bruck! It was an accident that I take full responsibility for! I just couldn't hold it in...and his taunting made me lose it. Ever since Cerasi and Nield and - and Melida/Daan -."

He broke down into tears and was stunned to feel Qui-Gon's strong arms enclose him in a comforting hug. He leaned into the older Jedi's arms and tried to relax with the soothing Force Qui-Gon sent him through the remnants of their bond. The words Qui-Gon said next stunned him.  "Tell that to the Council, Padawan."

Chapter II

"But you said that the decision was mine," Qui-Gon protested. He folded his arms across his chest and frowned. "Mace, you promised that the future of Obi-Wan was in my hands. I answer your question: yes, I do take Obi-Wan as my padawan."

"But you see," Mace said firmly, "Back than, Obi-Wan had not killed Bruck. We had thought that his anger was under control. You are not ready for another anger-prone apprentice. You said that yourself."

Qui-Gon frowned. He had been protesting for over an hour now and the council wasn't relenting. He started to reply, "Mace - "

Mace Windu ignored him for a moment and turned to Obi-Wan. "Obi-Wan, you have, once again, violated the trust of the council. Qui-Gon may choose to ignore your deeds, but the death of someone by anger is intolerable. We know of your past experiences with Bruck and let's just say that this death caps it off."

Pushing aside the instinctive need to defend himself, Obi-Wan stood mutely under the reprimand.  Qui-Gon however, started a protest.  "Master Windu – "

Mace held up a hand. His eyes sparkled with warning. "As I was saying," he said louder, "This is the action we will not tolerate because we are Jedi. Your anger has caused problems before. Many times before, might I add. A Jedi does not fall to these errors countless times. They learn. You have not learned. Obi-Wan Kenobi, you know this. And yet you have never fixed your errors, never learned from them."

"Actions they are not of a Jedi," Yoda put in oh-so-helpfully.

Mace continued sternly. "Obi-Wan, you have tested us time and time again. We have been lenient. But there is no excuse this time. The farmers on Bandomeer await your return."

Obi-Wan's eyes widened in horror. Qui-Gon stepped forward, his eyes glinting. "Mace, Obi-Wan has just endured an experience where friends betrayed him, friends died, rejection happened. It pushed all his personal buttons.  It was inevitable that his anger burst out because he had no one to confer in. When such a thing happens, it was unfortunate that Bruck was on the receiving end. But surely such an accident does not warrant dismissal."

Yoda spoke up, "Realize we do, a harsh punishment this may seem. Yet first time this is not. Again and again Obi-Wan has let anger rule him. Blind him. Time it is for him to see the consequences."

"Way past time," Adi said softly. She focused on Obi-Wan. "Obi-Wan Kenobi, you were always a promising student. When you lost your temper and broke a turbo-lift, we excused that. When you destroyed a room, we excused that. When you fought Bruck for Qui-Gon and beat him up, we did, eventually excuse that. Melida/Daan, we have excused. Think, Obi-Wan. We have been lenient with you and look where it has gotten us.  A Jedi student is dead."

Obi-Wan wished the ground would swallow him. Qui-Gon was defending him fiercely but he knew that he didn't deserve it. Still, the rebellious part of him screamed unfair! Bruck had more or less caused all those anger issues. If Bruck wasn't here, I wouldn't have to do this...

Yaddle looked at Obi-Wan with a neutral expression. "We feel the anger inside you," she said. "It's bubbling."

"Yes," Obi-Wan admitted slowly, "I am angry. I admit to my fault. Anger is my rival and I am working hard to suppress it."

"Why did you say that?" Mace asked curiously.

Obi-Wan swallowed. "I know my faults, Master.  I endeavor to fix them."

Qui-Gon rested his hand on Obi-Wan's shoulder. "We know it will take time to reach the right decision," he said slowly, emphasizing, "My padawan and I will be resting in our quarters. Please feel free to rethink your decision."

He bowed and walked towards the exit. "Come on, Obi-Wan."

"But - " Mace said indignantly. "We're not done!"

Qui-Gon smiled challengingly. "So think it through. We'll give you time."

***

"They hate me," Obi-Wan said morosely, looking steadily at his boots.

"No they don't. They need time. Like you, Mace can make hasty decisions."

Obi-Wan flushed. It felt like Qui-Gon was implying that he had made a hasty decision on Melida/Daan.  "I don't know why I snapped at Bruck like that," he finally said.  "It was like, I knew what I was doing was wrong, but I couldn't stop myself."

Qui-Gon tilted Obi-Wan's chin up. "Padawan, if you understand this, the council will relent.  You must learn to control your temper, no matter what your heart tells you."

"I guess," Obi-Wan whispered as silently as he could.  He glanced despairingly into Qui-Gon's eyes.  "Why can't I ever control it?"

Qui-Gon sighed, gently brushing Obi-Wan's hair.  "We all have faults, Obi-Wan.  You will learn to control your anger."

"Yes, Master."  Obi-Wan sounded doubtful.

Nodding, Qui-Gon stood up. "Go talk with your friends, Obi-Wan. They will no doubt want to see you. Stay out of trouble too."

"Yes, Master," Obi-Wan said uncomfortably. As he left, he saw Qui-Gon standing by the window, his eyes closed and his shoulders slumped.

***

"Bant!" Obi-Wan called cheerfully.

The slender girl turned and smiled. "Obi! We've been searching for you."

"We?" Obi-Wan asked hopefully. "Garen and Reeft here too?"

Bant lowered her eyes to the floor. "Um, we being Reeft and me."

Obi-Wan tried to hide his disappointment. "I see." Curiosity made him ask, "Why?"

"Obi, I know you don't want to hear this, but Garen made a slight change in friends. He, um, decided that perhaps being friends with us isn't good on his reputation, so he joined with Aalto."

Obi-Wan restrained from barking, "You're damn right I don't want to hear that!" Instead he took deep breaths. "Well, let's find Reeft. Where could Reeft be at this time of day?"

The two exchanged knowing glances. "Race you to the dining hall," Obi-Wan said and took off.

***

The boy's posture was familiar. He was smirking and twirling around a bronze lightsaber. The way his hair was swept back into a ponytail reminded Obi-Wan strongly of Bruck. The same posture, the same white hair. Obi-Wan swallowed hard.

"Garen," Obi-Wan said as he looked at his former friend.

Garen sneered. "Well, well, well, if is isn't Oafy-Wan and his dumb friends."

Aalto laughed loudly and pounded Garen on the back. "You tell 'em, Gar."

Reeft looked uncertain. "Obi, maybe we should leave."

Obi-Wan faced his friend in surprise. "Leave? And leave Garen with these pathetic losers?" He turned and looked steadily at Garen. "Perhaps, Garen Muln, that you have forgotten that we were once your friends. You confided in us everything. Including a certain name you once called Master Yoda..." he left the sentence hanging.

Garen threw himself at Obi-Wan who crashed to the floor. His former friend slammed a fist at him and Obi-Wan felt blood gush from his nose. He retaliated and kicked Garen in the stomach. Flipping upwards he head-butted Garen again and lashed out with his fist. Aalto punched Obi-Wan's head backwards and he cried out in pain as Garen kicked his legs out from under him.

Reeft sprang in to help but Aalto knocked him backwards. Obi-Wan pummeled Garen a few times before Garen managed to get on top of him and yank his braid. Gritting his teeth, Obi-Wan struggled to his feet as Bant tugged Garen away.

"Jeez, you don't want to kill him do you?" she asked in disgust at the bloody Obi-Wan, Garen, Reeft, and Aalto.

Obi-Wan scrambled to his feet and was about to launch at Garen again, but a strong hand stopped his movement.

Glancing upwards, Obi-Wan felt his stomach quake. There was none other than Master Windu...and he did not look happy.

***

That night, Obi-Wan crept out of bed and looked at Qui-Gon. The master was sleeping peacefully, but Obi-Wan had a suspicion that Qui-Gon was exasperated. Earlier that day, they had been called before the council again to discuss the fight and Qui-Gon had argued his case until the clocks chimed midnight. They had been dismissed for the day.

Qui-Gon had played the part of a concerned master and had helped heal Obi-Wan's injuries before sending him off to bed. Next, Obi-Wan had heard Qui-Gon preparing new arguments for tomorrow.

Obi-Wan sighed. He had caused Qui-Gon a lot of trouble and made himself a heavy burden on Qui-Gon's shoulders. The only way he saw to resolve this was to leave. Slowly, Obi-Wan placed a fresh tunic in his travel bag. He threw in a few other odds and ends before considering his lightsaber.

Only Jedi could wield lightsabers and Obi-Wan knew that well. The lightsaber was his companion, his trusty tool. He had felt the loneliness of not having his lightsaber and the dangers it had brought. He remembered how the Force had seemed to be gone until he had his 'saber back when he was on Melida/Daan.

Qui-Gon turned restlessly and Obi-Wan looked gently at the Jedi. "I'll miss you, Qui-Gon," he said, a lump forming in his throat, "But this is the only way to resolve this situation peacefully. And painlessly." He rested his hand on Qui-Gon's hand and squeezed it gently. "Goodbye...Master Jinn."

Hesitantly, he laid his lightsaber down on the table across from Qui-Gon. He turned and left without a backward glance. The honor was his to claim no longer.

Chapter III

12 years later...

Obi-Wan turned towards the hanger. He felt as if a huge weight had fallen on him. Qui-Gon was coming. Coming here to Naboo. It had been twelve years since he had left, twelve years since he had seen Qui-Gon and now word had gotten out that Qui-Gon was coming to Naboo.

I could handle it, he thought bitterly. Just because I am not a Jedi doesn't mean that they have to send a master here.

He had, in fact, told Yoda where he was. Hoped that the master would never send Qui-Gon here. Any Jedi here. But Yoda had and the conflict with the Trade Federation had been an excuse for Qui-Gon to come. Obi-Wan angrily kicked at a rock and was pleased to send it scattering at a window.

"You're upset," Amidala said from behind him. "You nearly destroyed the window."

Obi-Wan turned and nodded shortly. "I apologize, your Highness. The turn of events is...unfortunate." He recalled the twelve years ago when he had arrived here. Amidala had been two and he, being a former Jedi, had been asked by her family to protect her. When she was twelve, she had become Princess of Theed and now she was Queen.

But his earlier services had not been forgotten. He had been made the Queen's bodyguard and had trained her to fight. Now, he was appointed ambassador of Naboo and his duty was to meet up with Qui-Gon.

"This Qui-Gon Jinn, you know him?" Amidala asked softly.

"Yes." He pulled his hood over his face, hiding the youthful look.  His face was clean-shaven, his hair cropped short just like a Padawan style...only there was no braid hanging under his right ear.  He wore a simple tunic, again much like a Jedi outfit, only he also wore padded chest armor over the tunic.  And at his belt, there hung a blaster and vibroblade rather than a Jedi lightsaber.  "He used to be my master."

"And what happened between the two of you?"

Obi-Wan paused. "I betrayed him. Than I accidentally killed someone. A - rival. Qui-Gon fought hard for me and I couldn't bear to see him in pain. So I left. Relieved Qui-Gon of me."

"If he fought so hard for you, don't you think your leaving wounded him more?" The question was said lightly, but Obi-Wan felt a stab of pain as he realized the truth behind her words.

He didn't answer directly. "I was trouble for him. That is all."

Amidala stepped towards him. She saw Obi-Wan's face was sketched in sorrow and regret. "Well you're certainly not trouble for me." She smiled reassuringly and patted him on the back. He looked gratefully at her.

"Times like these, it's so easy to see why you were elected Queen," he said, leaning against the wall.  Amidala smiled, coming to lean next to him, resting her head on his shoulders.

***

Obi-Wan waited patiently for Qui-Gon, forcing himself to not move from his position. It seemed so urgent for him to speak to Qui-Gon; he knew that he needed the Jedi's help to save the planet Amidala loved above all others.

He saw the familiar tall figure and straightened himself. "Master Jinn," he greeted, politeness edging into his voice.

Qui-Gon's eyes widened. "Obi-Wan?"

"Yes. I have assurances that Master Yoda is aware of my ambassadorship on this planet." He bowed and gestured for Qui-Gon to sit down. "Qui-Gon, I realize all that has happened years ago - "

"Don't start with Melida/Daan!" Qui-Gon barked. "I stopped grieving years ago. Twelve years to be precise. I do not wish to relive that."

Obi-Wan was stunned by Qui-Gon's anger. "Well...I suppose I should show you to your room." He hesitantly added, "The Trade Federation and the safety of Naboo is my priority so...all else can be put behind us."

"Agreed," Qui-Gon said stiffly.

Obi-Wan nodded shortly and walked towards the inner castle rooms. "Master Jinn, we have recently tried to open with negotiations with the Trade Federation and we have attempted to fight off the invasion. And yet..." he paused, unsure of how Qui-Gon would react, "And yet I feel that something is driving the Nemodians. Their attack is being carefully controlled by a higher being."

He watched Qui-Gon's eyes close in weariness. "I feel much of the same," he said as his eyes opened and met Obi-Wan's. "The attack has no logic behind it. Naboo has nothing to do with the trade franchise.  The only possibility I can think of is that Naboo has no weapons to strike back with."

"Same with Zenoma Sekot," Obi-Wan said dryly, recalling a planet where he had once visited with Amidala as a teenager.

Qui-Gon nodded. "Many planets are, Obi-Wan. But Naboo...there must be connections. Somehow, someone in the Senate is able to ensure that the chaos remain. That is why they picked Naboo."

"But there are many delegates. The Senate aids, the witnesses, the Supreme Chancellor, the Senator, even the Queen's handmaidens visit the Capital. And they all have connections to Naboo."

"I'm surprised you didn't mention yourself," Qui-Gon said sharply before he could stop the words from coming out of his mouth.

Obi-Wan looked down at the ground, catching the implication that he betrayed Qui-Gon years ago. "I love Naboo. I lived here for twelve years."

"You lived at the Temple longer. Thirteen years. And you still betrayed the Jedi."

Obi-Wan turned away, stung by the comment, and started walking across the courtyard as fast as he could.

***

Hours later, Amidala found Obi-Wan leaning against a tree, looking down at a waterfall. "There you are," she said softly.

Obi-Wan raised his head wearily. "So you found me."

"What happened, Obi-Wan?"

He looked at her a long time before saying, "Qui-Gon brought up the rift between us and I guess I reacted badly."

"How so?"

"I stormed out on him." Obi-Wan gave a brief smile. "At least he's starting to get used to it. But still, he accused me of bringing the Trade Federation here."

Sitting down gracefully, Amidala asked, "Well I am positive that you didn't. Who else did you and Qui-Gon suspect?"

Obi-Wan shrugged. "Pretty much everyone who can easily contact the Senate and has power there and anyone who can gain power here. We discussed about spies, but your handmaidens seem out of the question."

"That's always true," Amidala said. She breathed deeply and smiled. "I love the fresh air here," she said. "It's always so quiet and peaceful. No matter what the Federation does, they can't take the peace away from Naboo."

Obi-Wan cocked his head anxiously. "Amidala, don't you get this feeling that it's too quiet?"

"No."

Obi-Wan sprang to his feet. "I have a bad feeling about this," he murmured. "Ami, stay down." Just as he spoke those words, Qui-Gon leapt from the bushes, looking slightly haggard.

"Obi-Wan," he said, clearly surprised. "Highness. Both of you should escape immediately." He met Obi-Wan's eyes and spoke without words. Destroyer droids headed this way.

Just then, Obi-Wan heard the familiar clanking sound. We're too late, he silently groaned.

***

Qui-Gon was aware of the danger even as he spun around. Three destroyers surrounded them...and Qui-Gon doubted that he could hold them off alone. He saw Obi-Wan draw a vibroblade and blaster, but they would hardly meet the weaponry of destroyers.

Amidala ducked behind Obi-Wan and withdrew her own blaster.

Blaster fire shot out in a flash, but Qui-Gon deflected it. Obi-Wan fired with his blaster and she followed suit. However the destroyer droids had shield generators and Amidala noted all too quickly that Obi-Wan and her shots and Qui-Gon's deflected fire were not going to make a big impact. Obi-Wan snapped out three shots before calling to her.

"Amidala, go! I'll catch up to you!"

"No," she responded tightly, "I wish to stay by your side."

Obi-Wan blew out his breath. "Listen, we lack the power needed to defeat these destroyers! Go...get...help," he managed to get out between blaster shots. "Now, Your Highness!"

Amidala ran. She saw no other option. Quickly, she skirted the droids and activated her secret passageway. "What the - " she demanded angrily as she realized a bit too late that her passageway was crammed full of battle droids. Each aimed a blaster towards her.

She backed up, but they fired. At the last second, a rough hand pushed her down. The fire hit Obi-Wan in the chest and he fell backwards.

Chapter IV

"NO!" Amidala screamed as Obi-Wan fell to the ground. The droids wheeled in formation as she scrambled for a weapon. Her hand closed on her sleek blaster and she fired recklessly.

Somehow, someway, her mind was still working and she evaded the return fire. A glowing green beam appeared out of nowhere and Amidala crouched down behind the Jedi Master.

She ran to Obi-Wan and noted with happiness that his pulse was still strong. He was hanging onto life. "Don't worry, Obi," she whispered into the young man's ear, "You'll be fine."

Qui-Gon was still fighting madly in front of her and Amidala shoved with all her strength to push Obi-Wan out of the passageway. Qui-Gon followed with a graceful leap and a last slash of his lightsaber that brought yet another droid down. Together, they scrambled through the woods.

"Good thing you came," Amidala gasped out. "Will Obi-Wan - " she broke off.

"He's fine," Qui-Gon said, leaning down to inspect the young man. He allowed his pounding heart to calm down. "The blaster shot missed his heart narrowly." Quickly, the Jedi emptied bacta into the wound. "We better wait here, Your Highness."

"Good," Amidala breathed. She knew it would risk Obi-Wan's life if they tried to get him to medical facilities. They would have to wait for him to heal here. Perhaps guards would come.

But she still had a hard time picturing that the Trade Federation would actually invade! She knew they would threaten, but why should they go so far? The viceroy was a coward. He would not dare attack Jedi. There is somebody behind this, she thought.

***

Later that evening, Obi-Wan regained consciousness. Qui-Gon was hovering over him, much like he had once when they had been Master and Apprentice. He smiled wistfully, but he knew he could never go back.

"You're awake," was all the Jedi said.

Obi-Wan grimaced as he struggled to a sitting position. His chest burned and he touched it gingerly. It might heal by morning with some Jedi techniques if Qui-Gon would allow him to use the Force.

"I already healed your wound somewhat," Qui-Gon said aloud.

The other blushed. How could Qui-Gon still manage to hear his thoughts? He shielded his mind and reinforced his barriers before saying, "Is Amidala all right?"

"Yes. I told her to rest."

"Ah." Struggling, Obi-Wan sat fully upright. Every movement hurt, but he could stand it. Before he could say another word, Qui-Gon handed him a small tube. It was his lightsaber.

"You will need this," Qui-Gon said, "Even if only for awhile. I made a check on Naboo. We are being invaded by the Trade Federation droids. They have knocked out all communications, stormed the palace, and herded the civilians into camps. They are forcing the Queen to sign a treaty."

"But Amidala is here!" Obi-Wan said bluntly, continuing to stare at his lightsaber. "And only Jedi are allowed to handle lightsabers!"

Qui-Gon frowned. "Nevertheless, you are with me on a Jedi mission and I need your help. And yes, Amidala is here. A decoy is posing as her for the time being."

You are with me on a Jedi mission and I need your help. Obi-Wan hooked the lightsaber on his belt and the weight reminded him. The night when he had left Qui-Gon. Things were not yet at peace with them, he knew, but the slightest feeling of hope pulsed through him.

Perhaps, no matter how incredulous it seemed, things could go back to the way they were before Melida/Daan.

***

The next morning, most of the pain was gone. Obi-Wan stood weakly, calling on a minor part of the Force to assist him. He felt sure that Qui-Gon would allow him to use the Force if he could use a lightsaber.

He could feel the Jedi's eyes burning through him. He ignored it.

Amidala stirred. Obi-Wan turned to look at the young monarch. She looked so young all of a sudden. This was not the friend he had grown up with, but rather a person in the galaxy who needed help.

The feeling scared him. He knew he was now viewing the situation on Naboo as a Jedi would and as a Jedi had been taught. Obi-Wan shook his head to clear it and to release his grip on the Force.

"I've been thinking," Qui-Gon said in a low voice. "That perhaps Obi-Wan and I can hold off the droids in the royal hanger. Perhaps we could sneak onto a ship and get back to Coruscant."

"Why?" Amidala asked. "I belong here with my people."

"Do that and you'll share the same fate as your people," Obi-Wan pushed. "Qui-Gon is right. We have to leave. The Senate can help you and your people more than your remaining here."

"The blockade," Amidala murmured.

Qui-Gon rubbed his temples. "We grab a pilot while we're in the hanger. Most pilots can maneuver a ship past a blockade without too much damage."

"I suppose it's doable," the queen said softly.

They moved towards the hanger, Qui-Gon in the lead, Obi-Wan covering his right.

***

It happened so fast Amidala was stunned. One moment, ten droids had stood in front of her, the next, there were two glowing bars of light and droid parts scattered this way and that. "Let's go," Obi-Wan panted, trying to get used to his lightsaber again. "Your Highness, stay behind Qui-Gon. I'll free some pilots and guards."

She nodded. Without hesitation, Obi-Wan whirled and headed straight for the mass of heavily guarded pilots. He is a Jedi, she thought, taking in his regal stride, the confident way he moved.

But there was little time to acknowledge that. The older Jedi moved forward and she trailed him. She turned her head to watch Obi-Wan again as he moved swiftly towards the mass of droids. "Qui-Gon," she said loudly.

He turned, his shoulders suddenly weary. His expression read, Now is not the time, but his voice was curious as he said. "Yes?"

"Obi-Wan...he can't handle all those droids."

Qui-Gon looked grim. If he has not forgotten, he can handle them. But Obi-Wan insisted that you reach safety first." He spun around and headed straight for one of the sleekest ships in the hanger, heading straight into danger much like Obi-Wan did.

Again, Amidala was startled at the alikeness between Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon. She frowned and rested her hand on her blaster. Either way, she was unsure about this.

***

It's been so long, Obi-Wan thought as he twisted his lightsaber in a spiraling motion. He whipped it back up and pivoted with his right foot, slashing two droids cleanly in half.

Now he had their attention. The droids spun as one, an unstoppable threat for most men. Obi-Wan deflected their blaster fire but his movements felt clumsy. His balance was off and he barely brought his lightsaber around to block another stream of fire.

"Go!" he shouted, whirling back to smash another droid. "Now!"

The Naboo volunteers scrambled to their feet and ran towards the ship. Qui-Gon stood at the base of the ship, smoothly deflecting blaster fire while snapping out instructions.

The Jedi I wanted to be, Obi-Wan remembered with a sudden jolt. He lashed out with the sparkling blue blade and collapsed another set. The guards were now turning back and firing, some were scooping up blasters from fallen droids and firing with them. The Force surged stronger and Obi-Wan tapped into it, fully accessed the power he had denied himself for so long. It felt good.

"Come on, Obi-Wan!" Qui-Gon yelled over the noise. "We're leaving!"

The younger male sprang over the heads of fallen droids. Kicking backwards, he knocked the last of the droids over and sprinted for the ship. Qui-Gon leapt off the ramp to smash a droid that had been about to fire just as Obi-Wan bounded onboard.

With a Force-enhanced leap, the Jedi Master easily landed next to Obi-Wan as the ramp closed.

***

"You fought well," Qui-Gon said.

Amidala grinned at Obi-Wan. "Obi, you kicked butt out there. That was great! You didn't forget anything about the Jedi ways!"

Obi-Wan allowed himself to feel the enthusiasm of the young queen but he did not feel quite as satisfied as he thought he would have felt. The last time I used a lightsaber was when I drew this blade on Qui-Gon. And he forgave me. But I broke his heart anyway. Perhaps I did hurt him more than Xanatos did.

"Thanks," he said simply, "Amidala..." his expression said more than words. Silently he willed her to leave, to give him a moment with Qui-Gon.

She caught the implication and quickly said, "I'll be going now.  I'm sure I should confer with the pilot about our destination."

The second the door hissed behind her, Qui-Gon said quietly, "I noticed that your connection to the Living Force has improved."

Obi-Wan cleared his throat nervously. "Thank you. I had meant to say..." he stuttered nervously, "I mean, I am, well, you know, sorry about the events that happened on Melida/Daan and the events that occurred after."

Qui-Gon seemed to think about that. He sighed. "I suppose that I was a bit rash about it," he said carefully, "I believe now that if you explain it to me from your point of view, I can understand your decision."

"I suppose." Obi-Wan took a deep breath. "I just thought that perhaps that you would think of me as a burden, nothing more. Something to take on and to defend so that you would not have a record of two failed apprentices. I thought I was making your life more difficult."

"Obi - "

"No," Obi-Wan said hurriedly, "I know now that it is not true. Back then, I was thinking from a thirteen-year-olds point of view. I did not understand what it was like - "

"And what made you understand now?" Qui-Gon asked. His manner was impassive, but Obi-Wan still felt the Jedi understood.

He looked at his hands and blushed red. "I guess it was Amidala. To have someone under your responsibility, the friendship and admiration grows. But I did not understand that then. But I do now."

Qui-Gon looked at him for a long time. "It is good, then," he said, "That Yoda made me come. Against my will, I admit. And Obi-Wan, you turned out fine. Jedi or not, I'm still impressed with all you have done on Naboo."

Obi-Wan swallowed. After all those years of planning this moment, he never imagined it would be like this. "Then I suppose that you forgive me?" he asked almost tentatively. He waited impatiently for the answer.

The warmth on Qui-Gon's smile made Obi-Wan's heart jump. "I forgive you, Obi-Wan."

Chapter V

"Whoa!" Obi-Wan yelled as the ship rocked again. He reached out with one arm and steadied himself. The view from the space airlock showed nearly the entire Trade Federation fleet firing on them. Red shots glanced off the screens as warning lights flashed.

"This is tough," he muttered, inching along the wall. Qui-Gon was standing grimly next to the pilot. Obi-Wan scrambled to join him. "Shields need to be up!" he yelled, "Try spinning!"

"I know what I'm doing, man," the pilot said back. He threw the ship into a dizzying spin that nearly threw Obi-Wan against the airlock. Instantly, the ship reversed and Obi-Wan steadied with the Force to maintain balance.

"Kick her into gear," he said. "We can make the jump to hyperspace...now!"

But to go to hyperspace, their shields had to drop for a split-second to feed all available power to the hyperdrive. Obi-Wan felt a few well-placed shots slam into the ship that sent them into a roll, alarms screeching, before he felt the transaction to hyperspace.

But as he scrambled to turn off the alarms, he knew. The ship was damaged. Not enough power to make it to Coruscant. Barely enough to make it to the next planet.

***

"Tatooine," Obi-Wan said. "The Trade Federation has no presence there."

The queen's head guard whirled. "How can you be sure?"

Qui-Gon looked distant. "It is controlled by the Hutts," he said thoughtfully, "Captain Panaka, it would be safe enough to bring Amidala there."

"The Hutts!" Panaka seemed to restrain from muttering more about the Jedi but his disbelief was obvious. He looked at Obi-Wan for support, but the younger man shrugged almost helplessly.

Amidala entered the room, dressed in simple garb. Panaka sprang to his feet. "Qui-Gon, allow me to introduce Padmé. She is one of the Queen's most trusted handmaidens."

Padmé smiled pleasantly. "Captain, how are things on Naboo?"

Panaka seemed to wilt and Obi-Wan quickly answered, "Chaos. The Trade Federation is herding all inhabitants into camps. We have a few free volunteer workers building up a resistance. Senator Bibble is leading the underground resistance."

"But the people?" Padmé pressed.

"In camps, bring denied sanitary conditions, denied food or water, general disrupt," Qui-Gon said, "But there is nothing they can do. The droids are everywhere and the people are weaponless."

The young handmaiden showed little emotion. "Very well," she said, with the grace found in few, "Where are we going? I heard something about Tatooine."

Obi-Wan nodded. "Padmé, the ship was not fully fueled when we hijacked aboard it. We need fuel and the closest planet without Trade Federation control seems to be Tatooine, a planet well out of the control of them. On Tatooine, we will have to refuel the ship and possibly make a quick inspection. The pilot, Ric Ollie, says that the engine may be damaged."

Padmé frowned. "I thought we would have sustained more damage from the blockade."

"Let's consider ourselves fortunate that we didn't," Obi-Wan replied, covering up the details to not alarm her, "But there were not too many ships to fight. Most of them had gone down to invade.  Not that that is a good thing," he added hastily.

"I see," she said, still with that stunning calmness that Qui-Gon could not shake off, "We will go to Tatooine. The Queen will stay aboard the ship while Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon handle the difficulties of bargaining with some of the greediest creatures in the galaxy. After repairs are accomplished, we will head for Coruscant. The Queen will speak with the Senate while Qui-Gon may contact his Jedi Temple."

"Well said," Qui-Gon agreed softly. "Obi-Wan, have you healed your blaster wound? I have a feeling that we'll need your skills as well on this 'bargaining.'"

"I feel it also," Obi-Wan said, seriously.

***

The ship landed with grace as Ric Olie maneuvered the ship slowly towards the dusty planet. Obi-Wan watched from his seat. "Land near the outskirts," he said. "That way, we'll be close enough to the space port. Mos Espa, I believe.

Qui-Gon nodded. "I propose that Obi-Wan and I go to inspect the engine and get repairs. Just us. Tatooine is very dangerous."

Panaka nodded. "Agreed."

"No," Padmé said stubbornly. "The Queen wishes that I go to inspect the planet."

Obi-Wan frowned. "No. It's dangerous."

She looked at him and raised her chin defiantly. "I know how to fight, Obi-Wan." Their gazes clashed.

"It's too dangerous," Obi-Wan repeated softly. "It would be better if you stayed, Padmé. Tatooine is ruled by the Hutts. Slavery is common. All the laws taught to you are not stressed here. Violence occurs daily. It's too dangerous." Silently he added, especially for a Queen. And a Queen with the Trade Federation on her trail.

"I'm going."

Qui-Gon looked irritated. "That is not a good idea," he said, "But we are short of time. Padmé, prepare yourself. Obi-Wan, inspect the engine and tell me what we need for our repairs. Ric, I need to talk to you."

Obi-Wan nodded. He released the hatch and walked outside into the hot twin suns. The heat bore down on him as he strode to where workers were already unloading the engine for inspection. "We'll need a new one," Obi-Wan said.

One of the workers lifted his head. "It is repairable."

Tilting his head, Obi-Wan examined the wrecked machinery again. "Repairs would only get us as far as the next moon," he said, "See how it's damaged here? It will continue moving and twisting until it finally breaks off and our ship plummets like a rock."

Satisfied, Obi-Wan turned and faced the barren desert. It was his home, he thought with a sense of awe. He never thought he would come here again. But his family was on the opposite side of the planet so visiting was not an option.

He sensed Padmé move up next to him. He turned to face her, annoyed. "Your Highness, this planet is dangerous."

"As you have told me," she responded. "I can handle danger, Obi." She lowered her voice and looked at the engine. "You said it was minor damage," she accused, her sharp eyes taking in the badly shot engine.

"I exaggerated," he said simply. "I'm not bound to tell the complete truth. I got that one freedom from no longer remaining a Jedi. As with many others. No code, anger issues, respect rules..."

"Then why do you still call Qui-Gon, 'Master Jinn?'" she challenged.

Obi-Wan hesitated. "Even though I am not a Jedi, he is a Jedi Master, and therefore deserves respect."

Amidala rolled her eyes. "You know, Obi, that you still want to be a Jedi Knight," she said, "It was your dream. So now you have your lightsaber back, you seem like a Jedi again. Like the boy you once were when I met you so long ago. Face facts, Kenobi. You want to be a Jedi."

"I do love Naboo," he said quietly. "You know that."

"Do you know that you also love the Jedi, genius?"

Obi-Wan grinned at her. "You're no Jedi," he said, "but your perceptions are better than most Jedi I know."

***

"Are you ready, Obi-Wan?" Qui-Gon asked quickly, checking his own food rations. "Did you remember to turn the power of your lightsaber off?"

"Qui-Gon, what are the chances that I'll fall into a large water hole on Tatooine?" Obi-Wan asked.

Qui-Gon sighed. "I'm just eager to get off this planet. We need to get Queen Amidala to safety as fast as possible. Delays should not occur."

"Do you sense anything?"

"Some unknown danger. And yet - I do not believe that there is anything in this sector that should endanger us. Be wary, Obi-Wan. With the invasion on Naboo, the confusion in the Senate, the Jedi pressed to confront rebellions of all sorts, this galaxy isn't safe anymore."

"I know that," Obi-Wan said, tapping the hilt of his 'saber impatiently. "I'm ambassador to Naboo."

"So you are." Qui-Gon waited a moment before sliding a glance towards Obi-Wan. "After you left, the Council was heavily criticized. They were too hard, too strict, too crazy to let a thirteen-year-old boy walk off on his own." He paused briefly, a pall settling over his features. "The Council extended research to look for you. We discovered that you had hidden onboard a space freighter headed for somewhere in the Inner Rim. They sent four teams after you." Qui-Gon frowned. "All four of those teams did not return. We got no clues, absolutely nothing. But all we gathered was that they went off to search for you, and they wound up disappearing as well."

"You thought that I killed - "

"No, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon said softly. "But with your former reputation, the Senate thought so. They accused the Jedi of being brutal and crazy. They said that you were a galactic criminal, one that harnessed the Dark Side of the Force."

"Naboo is in the Inner Rim," Obi-Wan said. "Surely Padmé's family would have connected the fact that I was a former Jedi and - "

"They shielded you," Qui-Gon said.

"But how?" Obi-Wan shot a look at Qui-Gon. "I told Master Yoda I was on Naboo. Did he tell Padmé's family that I wasn't dangerous or crazy?"

"I don't know," Qui-Gon said.

A long silence stretched as Obi-Wan struggled to digest this new information. A burning question continued to haunt him and he knew that he had to ask it. "But you, Qui-Gon. Did you ever search for me?"

Qui-Gon hesitated. "Somehow," he said. "I knew that you would tell Master Yoda. I grilled him for information. He gave me vague clues, and yet I sense that he wanted me to know where you were. The clues were more helpful than they seemed. I followed traces of our bond. It helped me seek you out. And then, one day, as I finally located your exact location, I hid and studied your new life."

Obi-Wan absorbed that silently.

Qui-Gon smiled. "When you first came out of the house, I was ready to make my presence known and to drag you back to Coruscant. But then a much younger Amidala came running out of the house. I watched as you two laughed and joked. So - I couldn't stand to bring you away from the home you clearly loved. After three years of searching for you, I left, thinking that you would be happy."

He sighed softly. "I never imagined that you would be so directly involved in the government of Naboo, or that Amidala would become Queen."

"I missed the Jedi then," Obi-Wan said. "I loved living in the countryside since I've only lived in the city as long as I remember, but I wanted to go home." He watched as Qui-Gon's face saddened slightly before the parallels dawned on him. "You spoke with Amidala's parents," he said. "You told them the truth."

"Yes."

Obi-Wan glanced at Qui-Gon. "After all those years, I thought that you really didn't care," he admitted.

Qui-Gon let the moment linger between them before snapping back to business. He knew that it was cruel to immediately turn their attention back to matters at hand, but to a Jedi, understanding and reflecting came after a mission.

"We should get moving," he said. "Padmé will be here soon."

Obi-Wan blinked at the sudden change of mood. "I'm ready," he said at last.

***

"Tusken Raiders!" Obi-Wan shouted. He activated his lightsaber, feeling much more reassured when he saw its bright blue glow. Qui-Gon's green beam shot up next to his as the two stood back-to-back.

"There must be thousands!" Padmé cried out, looking at the rows of Tuskens. She withdrew her blaster.

Qui-Gon made a quick decision. "Obi-Wan, Padmé, the most important thing is to get the Queen's ship safely to Coruscant. Both of you - go to Mos Espa and get the parts. I can distract these Tusken Raiders."

"No," Obi-Wan said firmly, eyeing the Tuskens warily. "I can't leave you!"

"You must. It's an order, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon said. "Think like a Jedi. A Jedi does everything in his power to ensure the success of his mission."

"I can't leave you," Obi-Wan said desperately.  I left you once and look where it turned out.

"Go," Qui-Gon said icily. "That was an order."

Obi-Wan hesitated before turning towards Padmé. He started to take a step towards her, but paused and turned back towards Qui-Gon. "Master Jinn, you know as well as I do that when they see someone leave, they will swamp the one who is remaining."

"Therefore leaving the other two safe to go. You only have a few minutes, Obi-Wan, before they will swamp all three of us. Leave. Now."

At that moment, the Tuskens chose to charge.

Chapter VI

"Go!" Qui-Gon roared, swinging his lightsaber experimentally. Obi-Wan ducked and grabbed Padmé's arm. He tugged her aside, half-running, half-stumbling.

Padmé ran with him, firing off several quick shots before the sand blinded her vision. Obi-Wan, too, was briefly blinded, but he drew upon the Force and managed to navigate the way he wanted to go. About a hundred yards from the Tuskens, he paused and looked backwards.

"Qui-Gon," he breathed. He could see the green glow of Qui-Gon's lightsaber jabbing and slashing, but he knew that the Jedi could not last too long. "I have to go back and help him," Obi-Wan said hoarsely.

"No, Obi-Wan! It's too dangerous!" Padmé protested.

Obi-Wan ignored her and ran at Force-enhanced speed, a plan already forming in his mind.

***

As he neared the Raiders, Obi-Wan activated his lightsaber and slashed. Anger and desperation fueled him, much as it had back before. As a kaffi stick whirled towards his skull, he raised his blade and slashed through it. "C'mon," Obi-Wan hissed quietly, dodging several blaster rifle shots. He knew that the Tuskens would not dare fire too much once he reached the inner circles out of fear for shooting their own men.

He whirled again, slicing another kaffi in two. A Tusken onboard a bantha stomped towards him, but Obi-Wan leapt on the bantha, knocked the Tusken down, and struggled to gain control of the creature. He sent soothing tendrils of the Force towards it, but he was uncertain about whether or not he was succeeding. Well, Kenobi, he thought grimly. If this creature doesn't throw you off in the next five minutes, you've done it correctly.

"Aghi-Dublo!" one of them cried out.

Obi-Wan kicked the bantha in its side, urging it to charge. As the bantha ran at top speed towards the mass of Tuskens surrounding Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan reactivated his lightsaber and slashed downwards. He sliced a blaster rifle in two, and then, using the Force, managed to urge another bantha to throw its rider before a shot could be aimed at him.

Qui-Gon turned at the sound, and his eyes hardened at the sight of Obi-Wan. Still, he did not have time to say anything before another Tusken attacked. Meanwhile, Obi-Wan rode the bantha through the mass of Tuskens. Out of fear for harming the creature, none of the Tuskens fired. None of them came close. It was all too easy.

Too easy. Obi-Wan's instincts warned him the second a cannon shot fired at him. He threw himself clear of the sacrificed bantha, and with a Force-enhanced jump, sailed over the mass of Tuskens firing at him and landed right next to Qui-Gon.

If he was going to die, he was going to die at Qui-Gon's side.

***

Parry. Thrust. Parry. Obi-Wan whirled, blocking shots, deflecting attacks, slicing Tusken's kaffi sticks as he struggled to regain his footing. Qui-Gon's own 'saber was a blur, seeming to go in all directions at once while half-way defending Obi-Wan and pushing the Tuskens back at the same time. But through their not-yet severed bond, Obi-Wan sensed the master Jedi's weariness.

He too was exhausted. The Force swirled around him, but he could not tap into its great strength. Frustration boiled inside of him, but he fought it and sought his calm center. It was unreachable. "Sithspawn," he hissed, trying to keep his weary arms moving fast enough to block all the attacks.

But as anger filled him, Obi-Wan felt that he could not control it. It was like back twelve years ago, when he had simply watched himself boil up with anger and then - kill Bruck.

So he watched, powerless to stop the flow. No, he pleaded. Not again.

"Help me!" he screamed in a distorted version of his voice. "Help me stop it!" Nobody paid him any mind. Obi-Wan felt a sharp pain in his side, but the pain only served to fuel his anger, not distract him.

Obi-Wan stepped backwards from the battle, ignoring the prods of the Tuskens to take his survival pack. He held up his arms in the shape of a ball, pouring all his anger and frustration pent-up from twelve years of loneliness and homesickness and then threw it at the Tuskens with all his strength.

"Obi-Wan, NO!" Qui-Gon shouted, a second before he realized what Obi-Wan was about to do. He struggled to take apart the ball, but he could do nothing as it hit the Tuskens and hell exploded.

"No," Qui-Gon whispered in a soft voice as he watched. Obi-Wan stood watching it all, a grim smile on his face.

"They deserved it," he said rightfully.

Qui-Gon continued to sense the Force surging. Obi-Wan's concentration could not be broken from killing each and every Tusken that was here. So he did the only thing left to do. He tackled him.

***

Obi-Wan fell backwards as Qui-Gon's body landed on top of his. His shoulder slammed into the hot desert sands - and reality rushed back into him. "No," he whispered, releasing his grip on the Force. He looked around. Wounded Tuskens and worse than wounded Tuskens lay everywhere.

"Obi-Wan, I understand," Qui-Gon's soft voice encouraged.

Obi-Wan shook his head. "The Council was right," he murmured. "I am dangerous. You shouldn't have let me use the Force, Qui-Gon. I can't control it. I can't."

"That's a lot of negativity," Qui-Gon reassured him gently. "You've been through a lot over these past years, Obi-Wan. You were bound to have to release your feelings at some given point."

"Why is it that I always kill people," Obi-Wan asked in a small voice. "Whenever I release my anger, it's never to the Force. It's by drawing on the Dark Side and then - then - " he found that he could not finish his sentence and instead stared at the ground.

"Obi-Wan, you were born with the power of the Force at your fingertips." Qui-Gon paused and lifted Obi-Wan's chin gently. "When people without the powers of life-and-death at their fingertips get angry, they attack people. They hurt with words and physical acts. Some go on killing rampages. But you and all the other Jedi - when we get angry, the life of millions rests in our hands. We could kill them all without moving from our seat."

"Is that supposed to make me feel better?" Obi-Wan asked bluntly.

"The point is, Obi-Wan, that no Jedi has been through as much as you. And yet, I recall many of them have done the same thing you have, several times."

"Even you, Qui-Gon?"

Qui-Gon nodded grimly. "I have," he said. "Not a good memory, but one lesson that I needed in order to not do it again."

Obi-Wan sighed heavily, slowly getting up from the ground. "I understand, Master Qui-Gon," he said, his tone collected and distant. "Let's get on with our mission."

"Obi-Wan, don't be a Jedi now," Qui-Gon half-pleaded. "You're hurt." Instantly, the shields on Obi-Wan's mind tightened, locking Qui-Gon out of his thoughts and feelings. "Don't," Qui-Gon murmured softly. But Obi-Wan was not his apprentice and was no longer a child. Qui-Gon could not force Obi-Wan's confidences.

Let him go, Qui-Gon. He's not your apprentice anymore.  He's not your Padawan. Why should you feel responsible for his feelings?

No, Qui-Gon thought. He is my apprentice. Any mistakes he makes - they are my mistakes as well.

***

"So let me get this straight," Padmé said, fuming. "Master Jedi, we are lost on the desert because the Tuskens managed to confuse Obi-Wan's sense of direction? It's night time! Are we going to try to survive out here? With Obi-Wan confused about what to do next?"

"He's going through a lot of pressure right now," Qui-Gon responded. "Padmé, in all the years you've known Obi-Wan, how did he - react?"

She hesitated. "I serve my Queen," she said. "I didn't know Obi-Wan when he was young."

"No. You are the Queen."

She looked at him, surprised. "How long did I fool you?"

"You had me for awhile, but now I'm onto you. Obi-Wan acts - differently around you. I can sense his affection for you, Highness." Qui-Gon sighed. "Perhaps you're the only one now who truly understands him."

Padmé shook her head. "I once thought I understood him," she admitted. "But now he's changed. He wants to be a Jedi more than anything, and this is his chance to prove himself worthy once more. But - something inside of him is cracking. Obi-Wan has built a shell around himself."

"He's afraid," Qui-Gon mused.

"Of you," Padmé said. Seeing Qui-Gon's astonished look, she quickly said, "I didn't mean it in that way, Qui-Gon. He loves and respects you. But he's always been afraid of your disapproval. He's afraid of hurting you. When I first met him, he seemed happy and eager all the time. But there were moments when his shell would lapse and I'd see him look upset. At night - " she paused.

"Yes?" Qui-Gon prodded gently.

"At night, he used to dismiss himself and look outside. I once spied on him. Not a good thing," she added hastily. "But I watched as he would look into the sky and pinpoint the stars. Every time, he would watch for something. And every night that something didn't come and he'd walk back in, with a smile on his face, but I could feel the burden in his heart."

"His shell is beginning to crumble now," Qui-Gon realized. "When I first met him here on Naboo, I thought he was happy. But he was waiting for me all those years. And now, seeing me here again, going through these adventures together, he's begun to fall apart."

"He needs you," Amidala said seriously. "Every boy respects and needs his father. You're his father. Do your duty."

"I know I have to," Qui-Gon said as he tilted his head back and looked at the stars. Somewhere, he knew Obi-Wan was doing the same.

Chapter VII

Anakin Skywalker yawned. It was a hot day and despite all his modifications with Watto's speeder, he doubted that he could make it back before night fell. Which equaled a long boring day of simply riding along the Dune Sea. He suppressed another yawn. He actually did prefer working in Watto's shop rather then run errands.

Of course, what he really would prefer would be his freedom. He sighed again and watched the view. Anakin would have made wild turns and moves with the speeder, but he was afraid that he would be late. Watto did not agree with dawdling. "Make me a wish," he murmured aloud. "Free me."

Only the winds replied back. Anakin sighed. He wished once more that he was just a young boy, back when he had still believed that wishes would come true. He smiled as he recalled an old dream that he often had.

***

"Ani, be home soon," Shmi Skywalker called. "A sandstorm's coming up."

"Don't worry, Mom. I'm just going to check out my podracer, all right? It's the only day in a month I've been able to work on it. Watto's getting suspicious."

"Just be careful."

"I promise."

**

The sandstorm did come up just as Anakin was walking down the familiar streets of Mos Espa. "Oh poodoo," he muttered, holding up his hand to his eyes to shield them. He sighed and turned around to start walking back home.

But he did not go where he wanted. Instead, Anakin found himself staring at the podrace stadium, the opposite direction of home. "Wha - " he wondered, bewildered.

"Toh-cheeko-do-hum, sleemo," another Dug sneered at him from inside the stadium. "Lost, slave boy? You can't shelter out here, you know."

"I know," Anakin replied bitterly, staring up at the great stadium. He had been here before, many times in fact, but something was different this time.

"Ani."

Anakin spun, hearing the soft voice.

"Ani."

I must be going crazy, Anakin thought. "Who are you?" he called. "Where are you?"

Suddenly, he was no longer standing on the ground. "I'm coming to you, Ani. Just hang on. Hang on." Just as sudden, warm arms swept around him, carrying him higher. "I have you now, Ani. You're safe now."

"You're free, Anakin." Anakin turned to face her, and found himself in an angel's arms. "You're free, Ani," she said, smiling softly. "Free."

***

Anakin snapped back into reality as he gazed over the Dune Sea. He smiled wistfully. The angel always picked him up and carried him away. To freedom. It was an old dream, one that Anakin had always believed would come true, but after fifteen years of slavery, he dreamed of that no more.

Anakin blinked and stared hard at the display console. It wasn't a dream. It was happening again. He was going in the wrong direction. And ahead of him, he could already see three figures, a dark spot in the endless sands. "Impossible," he said aloud.

Two of the figures (both men) looked up.

Even from this distance, Anakin could make out the way the younger man immediately narrowed his eyes, analyzing him.

But the third person caught his eye. She was beautiful, even while dressed in simple garb and covered with sand. Anakin could make out her smooth complexion, the way her every feature fit perfectly together, molding together something more beautiful than Anakin could ever imagine.

His heart pounded. It's her. The angel.