Title: Broken Promises and New Beginnings
Rating: I wish I knew. I am putting it at PG-13 just because I don't know any better and would rather err on the safe side.
Genre: Drama/Mild Angst
Disclaimer: I own none of the characters in this story. They are, were and will always belong to Mr. George Lucas creator of an amazing universe. Not only does this story contain elements of the universe that Mr. Lucas created but also the Alternate Universe (AU) found in a wonderful story called An Untimely Frost by CYNICAL21. I thank Cynical21 for allowing me to reference her work. If you haven't read her story you are really missing out on a wonderful story.
Just to a little guide as to what things mean:
/-/ Bond thought //-// Private thought "-" Speaking aloud
**********************************************************************
The air was cold on their faces as they made their way out of the club and onto the street. Obi-Wan stopped Adi from hailing an air cab as he drew her back into the alley. He leaned heavily against the exterior of the building trying to catch his breath.
"Hold on a sec ok?' He continued to lean his head back staring up into the traffic patterns above them.
"I really am sorry Obi. I didn't see him at the table or I would never have pulled you over there." She shook her head frustrated with herself.
"Adi as I told you the first three times you apologized, you have nothing to be sorry for. I was bound to see him sooner or later. It's a good thing that it is finally over and done with. Having you at my side when it happened truly made easier, I was grateful you were there. " He took another deep breath and released it.
She was staring at him concern lining her beautiful features. He felt touched by her protectiveness and reached for her. Drawing her to him he kissed her lightly on the forehead before enclosing her in his arms. She allowed him to hold her hoping he could feel the comfort she was sending him.
"Adi, please don't feel responsible. I really don't have the strength at this moment to worry about you and what just happened in there. I handled that badly. I feel so-" He paused.
"Sad?" She finished questioningly pulling away from him. He shook his head. He struggled until he found the right word.
"Empty." He said drawing her back and placing his forehead to hers.
"Do you mind if we call it a night? I think I need to spend some time meditating on all of this." His voice was soft and his lips so close to hers that she was tempted to steal another kiss before he had a chance to pull away.
"Do you really think you should be alone?" He didn't answer. "I want you to talk to me." Her voice sounded kind but firm.
She tilted his chin down and looked into his eyes.
"I would Adi. Trust me when I say that I would. I just really don't know what to say."
She nodded leading him back to the platform in front of the club. She raised her hand and an air cab immediately dropped down in front of them.
"Neat trick." Obi-Wan teased. She smiled at him over her shoulder as she entered the cab.
"Wanna bet I can make you laugh before we can get back to the Temple?" She asked reaching out to him and drawing him into the seat next to her.
"I have a better idea." He whispered then claimed her mouth with his.
They remained lost in one another throughout the entire trip back to the Temple coming up for air only when it was desperately needed. Their hands ran free exploring shoulders, backs, waists, forever carding frantically through each others hair each wishing the whole time that Jedi attire was not so layered. Neither sought the warmth that lay beneath the layers instead the caresses with mouth and hands were enough to if not satisfy them to at least provide an amazing distraction.
Upon arriving at the Temple they both laughed embarrassingly as the pilot cleared his throat to get their attention. They handed the credit stick over to the driver. He seemed nonchalant, so they decided that this must be a pretty common sight in the back of his cab.
They kissed once more before they made their way into the Temple.
"Still think I pity you?" She asked pushing the lift button. He was standing behind her encircling her with his arms. She leaned back into him.
"This is moving pretty fast isn't it?" He whispered his face nuzzling her hair.
Adi paused and considered what he was saying which wasn't an easy task given how good his arms felt around her. She laid her hand upon his and sighed.
"I guess you are going to say that that is a bad thing right?" She closed her eyes waiting for his reply.
The lift arrived and he leaned over her urging her forwards with exaggerated steps. She laughed and loosened her grip on his hands just long enough to indicate the floor they needed.
"Well?" She asked not letting him off of the hook just yet.
He sighed and leaned against the back of the lift continuing to hold her. "I am not in anyway saying that being with you is a bad thing but-"
"But?" she questioned. She held her breath vowing that Jinn would not steal this chance away for her. She would not let Obi-Wan pull away.
"But it has been my experience that relationships that move quickly tend to burn out just as quickly. We've been friends for many years but I really know very little about you. I think we should be mindful of where we want this to go." He released her and they exited the lift.
She exhaled and allowed herself to breathe once more.
"What's wrong?" He asked looking down on her with concern.
"I was afraid that you were going to say that with everything you are dealing with-- you know with Qui-Gon's returning and all that-- perhaps we needed to stop all of this." She reached up taking his hand as they made their way down to her quarters. "I understand if you need some time to sort things out." She did understand and would step aside temporarily if it would help him.
"Adi," He said stopping her in the middle of the hallway, "He has nothing to do with us. I want this, but only if you want it as well." He kissed her forehead tenderly.
Looking up she nodded. Her voice failed her in the face of such honest affection.
She did want to be with him, but she too had seen so many relationships burn with a passion and then fizzle out because they were only based on the initial chemistry. It was obvious that the two of them had the chemistry mastered. Now they had to see if they could work out the mechanics of a relationship. That was always the tricky part and usually where things fell apart for Adi. Looking at the man beside her though she knew that she would do whatever it took this time to make it work. If it was the will of the Force that they be together then it would guide them. They must trust it.
"I guess we should meditate on what the Force has in mind for us." She ventured. He smiled again and their eyes met. Once they reached her door she pulled him against her. He didn't resist.
"I was thinking that perhaps we could meditate together." She made a gesture with her head indicating they would do so from inside her quarters. Obi-Wan smiled tracing the line of her jaw with his fingers as he did so.
"Adi I am only human and if I were to go into that apartment with you now I can assure you the last thing I would want to do with you would be to meditate. " She felt a shock surge through her body at the words.
She leaned up and kissed him. As they pulled back she whispered softly, "That was what I was hoping for."
She smiled. He kissed her again deeper this time taking his time to fully explore her mouth. He savored the sweet taste of her, the strength of her arms around him and the sensual hunger of her body as she pressed herself instinctively against him. She moaned into his mouth shaking his resolve. Slowly he pulled away. His eyes were lost with longing but he had spoken his heart earlier and refused to compromise the promise of what might be by giving in to a moment of passion.
"Adi?" His voice was husky with emotion.
"Yes?" The word was spoken breathlessly as she slowly opened her eyes.
A mischievous glint sparked in his eyes, "Wanna make a bet?"
She laughed as he palmed her door and turned to beat a difficult retreat. She watched him go. This time he didn't turn back to look at her. He knew her eyes were on him until he disappeared.
As he cleared his mind of the electric feeling of Adi in his arms he found himself once again confronted by his feelings concerning his ex-Master. Obi entered the lift selecting the meditation floors over his own. He sighed to himself knowing it was going to be a very long night.
*************************
Anakin was struggling to contain his nervous energy as he finished getting breakfast on the table. He heard Qui-Gon's door slide open. The older man looked extremely tired. Dark circles under his eyes and worry lines drawn across his forehead held the young boy's gaze.
"Master did you enjoy your evening out with your old friends?" They were now sitting across from each other.
"Very much Anakin thank you for asking. Do you know what your schedule is for today?" Qui-Gon asked trying to avoid any further questions concerning the previous night.
"Yes Master. We went over that yesterday remember? " The older man nodded his response.
"What time do you want to meet for sparring?" Anakin asked turning his attention back to his food.
"I will have to contact you later about that. Here at the temple it is a bit of a catch as catch can. We have to sign up for sparring rooms and I am not sure what standing times the older Padawans have open."
Anakin didn't completely understand that system but decided to just wait and see how it worked. His master knew the system so he would just allow him to handle it and felt sure in a week he would completely understand. He caught himself staring again at his master's demeanor.
"Master did you not sleep well?" Qui-Gon looked up meeting the boy's eyes. He shook his head.
"Actually I spent the night in meditation." He sipped his juice and continued to push his food around on his plate.
His night of meditation had brought him no peace. He had been so excited about being back at the Temple. He had known that there would be some members of the Order that would cause him discomfort. He had even accepted that the first time he faced Obi-Wan would be a bit awkward, but he had never imagined the cold reception his ex-padawan had given him. He had also been shaken more than he wanted to admit by his total inability to feel the young man's presence. There had been a time when he had known Obi- Wan better than anyone. He now realized that he didn't know the knight at all. A night of meditation had given him no real answers or comfort. He hadn't a clue how to bridge the rift between them.
Anakin noticed that the older man seemed preoccupied. He didn't venture to ask what his master had felt so disturbed by that he had meditated upon it all night.
"Well how about we meet for noon meal?" Anakin rose taking his dishes to the kitchen to place in the cleaner.
"We can meet outside the dining hall at noon?' Qui-Gon replied finally shaking himself away from his own thoughts to concentrate on his obviously nervous student.
"I will see you there Master." Anakin said turning to pick up his data pad and head out to his first class as an official Padawan of the Jedi Order.
"Padawan?" Anakin turned to see Qui-Gon gesturing him over to him. He obeyed. Qui-Gon placed his hands Anakin's shoulder. He looked into the boy's eyes.
"You belong here Anakin. Be yourself and all will be well." Anakin relaxed a bit under the warm gaze of his Master. He smiled faintly trying not to lose his nerve.
"I'm sure walking in will be the worst of it. Once they get a good look at me then they will lose interest. " He said it more to convince himself than his master. Qui-Gon smiled.
"Be at peace little one. All will be well. I look forward to hearing all about it at noon." He gave the boy a brief hug, turned him and pushed him lightly towards the door. With a simple swoosh Anakin was on his way.
********************************
The noise in the Creche was so different from the rest of the Temple. Throughout the Temple there was an air of reserved serenity. In the creche it was all chaos and commotion. Obi-Wan loved spending time with the children. He was drawn to their innocence, trust and acceptance. They loved him right back. It was always a treat for them when their favorite Knight had some free time to spend with them. Today it was for a lesson involving paint and immense patience.
Adi knew that Obi-Wan had planned to spend his morning with the children. He had been on her mind all night. She might as well have joined him in meditation. She would have gotten more rest than she did tossing on her sleep couch all night.
As the lift doors opened onto the level she was bombarded by squeals of delight and the ever patient voices of the masters. She smiled as she made her way over to Master Lao-Miel.
"Good morning Master Gallia. To what do we owe this honor?" Master Lao- Miel asked bowing in respect of the Council Member.
"Oh please Lao you changed my nappies can't I just come down to say hello." Adi gave the woman a hug then stepped back. Adi had been a regular visitor to the crèche up until the time she had accepted the Council seat. Now there just weren't enough hours in the day.
"Of course my ever precocious Adi, but I have a feeling that someone else is responsible for drawing you here today." There was a knowing smile playing upon the older woman's lips.
"I never could fool you could I?" She laughed. "Where can I find him?"
"Just follow the noise. " Lao gestured down the hall from which the loudest squeals of joy were coming from. Now that Adi listened more closely she did hear several chats of Obi-Wan's name mixed in with other indistinguishable noises.
"How is he?" Adi asked knowing that Lao loved Obi-Wan as much as anyone in the Temple.
"He seems good, but then again he is good at protecting others from his pain. I am grateful he has you in his life to help him through this. I think it would be much harder for him if he were totally alone." She placed her hand on Adi's shoulder squeezing it with great affection.
"Well off I go into the fray. Wish me luck." Adi laughed and rolled her eyes.
"I can do better than that." The Master pulled a paint cloak from behind a counter and offered it to Adi. "It's Art Day." Adi happily took the cloak and threw it on swiftly as she made her way down the hallway.
Once she reached the classroom she was greeted with the charming and hilarious sight of a ginger haired knight covered in red, blue, purple and green hand prints as he attempted to help each child sign their masterpiece receiving endless hugs in the process.
"Golly Golly!" She looked up to see one of her special friends had recognized her and was quickly approaching with purple hands waiting to embrace her.
Obi-Wan turned just in time to see Adi fall victim to handprints herself. He smiled and turned back to the child who had been waiting as patiently as possible given the age limitations.
"Need some help?" She offered coming up from behind him.
"Always." He laughed and turned to her giving her a warm and loving gaze.
"I would give you a hug but you seem to have already met your quota for the day." She indicated the numerous hand prints covering the knight.
Obi-Wan's face grew serious as he turned to the artists surrounding him.
"Children, Master Gallia is under the impression that there is a limit to the number of hugs we are allowed in one day." His words brought forth a sincere chorus of "Oh No" from all the children. "I believe we must take it upon ourselves to show Master Gallia the error in this impression. What do you say? Can we help her out?" There was an enthusiastic crescendo of nods followed by a wave of children rushing upon the lovely master intent on teaching her the lesson of infinite hugs. She could hear Obi-Wan's contagious laughter above all the giggles. The hugs felt wonderful. She didn't mind being covered in paint. It was a small price to pay for such a priceless treasure of affection and strength.
Once the onslaught had passed Adi turned her attention to the children and thanked them for their lesson. Placing a mocked pout on her face she glanced from them to Obi-Wan then back to the children.
"Obi, you didn't give her a hug." A beautiful little girl with blond hair and big blue eyes cried out looking up at the knight.
Obi-Wan seeing the dramatics that were in play on the part of Adi shook his head and gave her a knowing smile. He then turned to the little girl who had addressed him.
"Kyla you are so right. How could I have overlooked something so important? I am a lucky knight indeed to have so many good friends to keep me on the right path." He turned to Adi and cupped her face with his hands staring lovingly into her beautiful sparking blue eyes. It was then that she noticed that there was a mischievous glint in his eyes only a moment later did she realize that his hands seemed cold and wet. He lowered his hands to her waist embracing her tightly. When he pulled back she took his hands in hers.
"I have paint all over my face now don't I?" She asked with mock irritation.
"I would have to say that 'all over' is a bit of an exaggeration." He smiled and placed his forehead to hers for a brief moment. "I am so glad to see you. I find it easier to breathe when you are near."
His words touched her. She could see the tell-tale signs of fatigue now that she was standing so close to him. She wondered if he had slept at all the night before.
"How did your meditation go?" She asked pulling away but still holding his hands. Just as he was about to respond there was a crash in the corner of the room followed by a mournful wail.
"Is anyone hurt?" He immediately asked as he saw the broken containers that had once held the various paint brushes for the classes to use.
Seeing that none of the children had been injured but had merely been startled by the noise, Adi gathered up the children and marched them down to the shower area to clean up. It would be lunch time before they were paint free. Obi-Wan began cleaning up the mess from the broken containers and also placing the paintings on the highest shelves so that they could dry undisturbed.
With their tasks completed they made their way out of the crèche area but only once promises had been made that at least Obi-Wan would be returning later that evening for story time. Adi looked over at the young man as he received his final goodbye kiss. He held so much of the innocence she felt in these children. There was something pure and wonderful about him. Her heart leapt as he looked up at her. She couldn't believe that this was really happening for them. She had waited so long and now he was looking at her just as she had always hoped that he would.
They waited patiently for the lift. Snickering slightly at his appearance, she covered her mouth in a veiled attempt to hide her amusement. He was covered in tiny hand prints, had paint on his face as well as in his hair, and even on his boots. He glanced over at her puffing out his chest with pride.
"Better than all the medals the Republic could ever award me." His voice was sincere and she took his hand in agreement.
The lift arrived. They made their way onto it. Adi selected the knight's level knowing that Obi-Wan would need to clean up before lunch. As soon as the doors closed he reached across her and hit the emergency stop.
"What-" Adi found herself unable to speak as she suddenly felt herself pinned against the side of the lift with Obi-Wan's lips devouring hers. She wrapped her arms around his waist pulling him tighter against her. She could feel his hard body and found herself squirming against it. He obviously enjoyed the motion of her body as he moaned into her mouth deepening the kiss further. Not to be out done, Adi used the moment of obvious distraction to her advantage reversing their positions as she rolled the knight onto his back. He laughed his lips never leaving hers. Finally out of breath and also feeling a bit pressed for time they separated. They stood momentarily staring heatedly into the other's eyes as they fought to catch their breath.
"I thought you said we were moving too fast. " She said watching Obi-Wan as he reached over to release the emergency stop.
She straightened her tunic and then set about righting his. "I don't remember saying that. It must be that age thing again. You are losing your memory now." She pulled him from the wall to stand next to her playfully giving him a punch in the shoulder in her own defense.
"Oh no you don't." She began, "You said we were moving too fast."
"Wanna bet?" he asked whispering in her ear. A slight shudder ran through her.
Refusing to take the bait she pressed on. "I am guessing that your meditation went well last night?" She absently smoothed her hair back into place.
"Actually yes and no." Obi-Wan said as he worked to adjust his belt into place.
"Well that is certainly cryptic. Are you going to decode that for me?" She smiled giving herself one last once over.
"Later." The word was barely out of his mouth when the doors opened onto his floor. There were several knights waiting for the lift. They greeted Obi-Wan with a round of good natured teasing concerning the amount of paint he was wearing and Master Gallia with reserve and respect. Obi-Wan exited the lift bowing formally to Adi.
"Master Gallia thank you for your assistance today in the crèche. I will meet you in the Water Garden this afternoon at two as you requested." He smiled and moved aside so that the waiting knights could finish entering the lift.
"It was my pleasure Knight Kenobi. I will see you then." She shot back completely unruffled.
*********************
Whispers, he hated whispers. He had heard them on Tatooine.
That boy is a slave.
He had heard them in the Council Chambers.
Dangerous surely you can sense it.
He had heard it on Lustar.
Rejected and now has to be trained here.
As Anakin made his way to his second class of the morning he once again heard whispers.
Reason Master Jinn abandoned Knight Kenobi. Doesn't look like the Chosen One to me. Chosen to do what? Freak. Bet Obi-Wan hates him.
On and on the whispers surrounded him. They beat him savagely with the weight of their insinuations and humiliation. Why had Master Jinn made him return to the Temple? Surely the old man had known that this would have happened to him. That is why he had told Anakin that he would have to be strong. Anakin was strong, but was tired of feeling left out and alone.
"Hey you!" He turned to face a red haired boy standing with a group of older padawans. "You the one that took Jinn away from Kenobi?" The words sounded threatening to Anakin.
"No." Anakin said turning back around.
"Yeah you are. You are the CHOSEN ONE right?" The group laughed at the sarcastic tone the boy used. Anakin felt his face grow warmer.
"I didn't take anyone away from Obi-Wan." He said over his shoulder grateful that the classroom was in view.
"That's not what I heard. I heard you were the reason that Obi-Wan almost didn't get to be knighted. " The boy had somehow caught up with Ani and was now blocking his entrance into the room. "We like Kenobi. Everyone likes Kenobi. You know what that means?"
Anakin shook his head and tried to move past the boy but failed. He kept his eyes lowered. He had learned on Tatooine that eye contact could get you into a lot of trouble.
"That means that NOBODY likes you." The boy poked Anakin in the chest once with his finger to emphasize his point.
Anakin looked up into the boys eyes. There wasn't any real sign of anger or hate in them just pure indifference. He was relieved for a moment but then realized that indifference was worse than hate. He was nothing to this person. He was less than nothing. Suddenly he felt exactly as he had as a slave. Anakin felt the anger inside the lockbox spill out and fill him.
"Hey." Entering the classroom, he looked up afraid of what might be coming next.
There was a girl on the far side of the room motioning for him to come and sit down. Well he thought she was a girl. She was a species of being he had never seen before but the voice had sounded female. Her skin was a beautiful golden color and even though she seemed to have something like gills on the side on her neck, he couldn't help but think she was lovely.
"How's it been today?" She asked making a motion with her head indicating the other age mates.
"Ok." Anakin said not wanting to open up to a complete stranger. Trust had to be earned.
"Bet it has been rough being the Chosen One and all." She rolled her eyes as she turned her data pad on. Anakin remained silent.
"You know they are all just big fans of Kenobi and sorta think that they have to be rough on you because he can't." Her comment caught him completely by surprise. Why would Obi-Wan want to be rough on him? He and Anakin had never had a chance to get to know each other very well, but he had always been polite to Anakin.
"I never did anything to Obi-Wan. We get along fine." He said defensively looking around at the other students who were listening in on their conversation.
"Whatever. I was just trying to let you know why everybody hates you."
The teaching Master entered the class. Anakin couldn't hear a word the man said as his mind tried to piece together all that he had overheard in the whispers that morning.
His being rejected by his age mates had nothing to do with Master Jinn. It was Obi-Wan's fault. He forced the hate he felt deeper inside the box and waited patiently for lunch. Then he could see his Master. It would mean enduring humiliation as he confessed the truth about his morning but at least it would be a friendly face.
**************************
Master Lao-Miel, you guessed it, is another character from Untimely Frost. Thanks for sharing your brilliant imagination with me Cyn. I want to thank everyone for your comments about the first meeting between Obi and Qui. I didn't think you guys would really like it, but I had to be true to how I saw the story happening. This is sort of a transitional chapter. The next one is a bit more involved so it might take me an extra day. Don't give up on me ok? I will get it posted as soon as possible. Also does anyone know of a good system for deciding what content fits with which content rating. I am not sure if one of my upcoming chapters would be PG-13 or R. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks so much for all the support. I love it!!!!
Rating: I wish I knew. I am putting it at PG-13 just because I don't know any better and would rather err on the safe side.
Genre: Drama/Mild Angst
Disclaimer: I own none of the characters in this story. They are, were and will always belong to Mr. George Lucas creator of an amazing universe. Not only does this story contain elements of the universe that Mr. Lucas created but also the Alternate Universe (AU) found in a wonderful story called An Untimely Frost by CYNICAL21. I thank Cynical21 for allowing me to reference her work. If you haven't read her story you are really missing out on a wonderful story.
Just to a little guide as to what things mean:
/-/ Bond thought //-// Private thought "-" Speaking aloud
**********************************************************************
The air was cold on their faces as they made their way out of the club and onto the street. Obi-Wan stopped Adi from hailing an air cab as he drew her back into the alley. He leaned heavily against the exterior of the building trying to catch his breath.
"Hold on a sec ok?' He continued to lean his head back staring up into the traffic patterns above them.
"I really am sorry Obi. I didn't see him at the table or I would never have pulled you over there." She shook her head frustrated with herself.
"Adi as I told you the first three times you apologized, you have nothing to be sorry for. I was bound to see him sooner or later. It's a good thing that it is finally over and done with. Having you at my side when it happened truly made easier, I was grateful you were there. " He took another deep breath and released it.
She was staring at him concern lining her beautiful features. He felt touched by her protectiveness and reached for her. Drawing her to him he kissed her lightly on the forehead before enclosing her in his arms. She allowed him to hold her hoping he could feel the comfort she was sending him.
"Adi, please don't feel responsible. I really don't have the strength at this moment to worry about you and what just happened in there. I handled that badly. I feel so-" He paused.
"Sad?" She finished questioningly pulling away from him. He shook his head. He struggled until he found the right word.
"Empty." He said drawing her back and placing his forehead to hers.
"Do you mind if we call it a night? I think I need to spend some time meditating on all of this." His voice was soft and his lips so close to hers that she was tempted to steal another kiss before he had a chance to pull away.
"Do you really think you should be alone?" He didn't answer. "I want you to talk to me." Her voice sounded kind but firm.
She tilted his chin down and looked into his eyes.
"I would Adi. Trust me when I say that I would. I just really don't know what to say."
She nodded leading him back to the platform in front of the club. She raised her hand and an air cab immediately dropped down in front of them.
"Neat trick." Obi-Wan teased. She smiled at him over her shoulder as she entered the cab.
"Wanna bet I can make you laugh before we can get back to the Temple?" She asked reaching out to him and drawing him into the seat next to her.
"I have a better idea." He whispered then claimed her mouth with his.
They remained lost in one another throughout the entire trip back to the Temple coming up for air only when it was desperately needed. Their hands ran free exploring shoulders, backs, waists, forever carding frantically through each others hair each wishing the whole time that Jedi attire was not so layered. Neither sought the warmth that lay beneath the layers instead the caresses with mouth and hands were enough to if not satisfy them to at least provide an amazing distraction.
Upon arriving at the Temple they both laughed embarrassingly as the pilot cleared his throat to get their attention. They handed the credit stick over to the driver. He seemed nonchalant, so they decided that this must be a pretty common sight in the back of his cab.
They kissed once more before they made their way into the Temple.
"Still think I pity you?" She asked pushing the lift button. He was standing behind her encircling her with his arms. She leaned back into him.
"This is moving pretty fast isn't it?" He whispered his face nuzzling her hair.
Adi paused and considered what he was saying which wasn't an easy task given how good his arms felt around her. She laid her hand upon his and sighed.
"I guess you are going to say that that is a bad thing right?" She closed her eyes waiting for his reply.
The lift arrived and he leaned over her urging her forwards with exaggerated steps. She laughed and loosened her grip on his hands just long enough to indicate the floor they needed.
"Well?" She asked not letting him off of the hook just yet.
He sighed and leaned against the back of the lift continuing to hold her. "I am not in anyway saying that being with you is a bad thing but-"
"But?" she questioned. She held her breath vowing that Jinn would not steal this chance away for her. She would not let Obi-Wan pull away.
"But it has been my experience that relationships that move quickly tend to burn out just as quickly. We've been friends for many years but I really know very little about you. I think we should be mindful of where we want this to go." He released her and they exited the lift.
She exhaled and allowed herself to breathe once more.
"What's wrong?" He asked looking down on her with concern.
"I was afraid that you were going to say that with everything you are dealing with-- you know with Qui-Gon's returning and all that-- perhaps we needed to stop all of this." She reached up taking his hand as they made their way down to her quarters. "I understand if you need some time to sort things out." She did understand and would step aside temporarily if it would help him.
"Adi," He said stopping her in the middle of the hallway, "He has nothing to do with us. I want this, but only if you want it as well." He kissed her forehead tenderly.
Looking up she nodded. Her voice failed her in the face of such honest affection.
She did want to be with him, but she too had seen so many relationships burn with a passion and then fizzle out because they were only based on the initial chemistry. It was obvious that the two of them had the chemistry mastered. Now they had to see if they could work out the mechanics of a relationship. That was always the tricky part and usually where things fell apart for Adi. Looking at the man beside her though she knew that she would do whatever it took this time to make it work. If it was the will of the Force that they be together then it would guide them. They must trust it.
"I guess we should meditate on what the Force has in mind for us." She ventured. He smiled again and their eyes met. Once they reached her door she pulled him against her. He didn't resist.
"I was thinking that perhaps we could meditate together." She made a gesture with her head indicating they would do so from inside her quarters. Obi-Wan smiled tracing the line of her jaw with his fingers as he did so.
"Adi I am only human and if I were to go into that apartment with you now I can assure you the last thing I would want to do with you would be to meditate. " She felt a shock surge through her body at the words.
She leaned up and kissed him. As they pulled back she whispered softly, "That was what I was hoping for."
She smiled. He kissed her again deeper this time taking his time to fully explore her mouth. He savored the sweet taste of her, the strength of her arms around him and the sensual hunger of her body as she pressed herself instinctively against him. She moaned into his mouth shaking his resolve. Slowly he pulled away. His eyes were lost with longing but he had spoken his heart earlier and refused to compromise the promise of what might be by giving in to a moment of passion.
"Adi?" His voice was husky with emotion.
"Yes?" The word was spoken breathlessly as she slowly opened her eyes.
A mischievous glint sparked in his eyes, "Wanna make a bet?"
She laughed as he palmed her door and turned to beat a difficult retreat. She watched him go. This time he didn't turn back to look at her. He knew her eyes were on him until he disappeared.
As he cleared his mind of the electric feeling of Adi in his arms he found himself once again confronted by his feelings concerning his ex-Master. Obi entered the lift selecting the meditation floors over his own. He sighed to himself knowing it was going to be a very long night.
*************************
Anakin was struggling to contain his nervous energy as he finished getting breakfast on the table. He heard Qui-Gon's door slide open. The older man looked extremely tired. Dark circles under his eyes and worry lines drawn across his forehead held the young boy's gaze.
"Master did you enjoy your evening out with your old friends?" They were now sitting across from each other.
"Very much Anakin thank you for asking. Do you know what your schedule is for today?" Qui-Gon asked trying to avoid any further questions concerning the previous night.
"Yes Master. We went over that yesterday remember? " The older man nodded his response.
"What time do you want to meet for sparring?" Anakin asked turning his attention back to his food.
"I will have to contact you later about that. Here at the temple it is a bit of a catch as catch can. We have to sign up for sparring rooms and I am not sure what standing times the older Padawans have open."
Anakin didn't completely understand that system but decided to just wait and see how it worked. His master knew the system so he would just allow him to handle it and felt sure in a week he would completely understand. He caught himself staring again at his master's demeanor.
"Master did you not sleep well?" Qui-Gon looked up meeting the boy's eyes. He shook his head.
"Actually I spent the night in meditation." He sipped his juice and continued to push his food around on his plate.
His night of meditation had brought him no peace. He had been so excited about being back at the Temple. He had known that there would be some members of the Order that would cause him discomfort. He had even accepted that the first time he faced Obi-Wan would be a bit awkward, but he had never imagined the cold reception his ex-padawan had given him. He had also been shaken more than he wanted to admit by his total inability to feel the young man's presence. There had been a time when he had known Obi- Wan better than anyone. He now realized that he didn't know the knight at all. A night of meditation had given him no real answers or comfort. He hadn't a clue how to bridge the rift between them.
Anakin noticed that the older man seemed preoccupied. He didn't venture to ask what his master had felt so disturbed by that he had meditated upon it all night.
"Well how about we meet for noon meal?" Anakin rose taking his dishes to the kitchen to place in the cleaner.
"We can meet outside the dining hall at noon?' Qui-Gon replied finally shaking himself away from his own thoughts to concentrate on his obviously nervous student.
"I will see you there Master." Anakin said turning to pick up his data pad and head out to his first class as an official Padawan of the Jedi Order.
"Padawan?" Anakin turned to see Qui-Gon gesturing him over to him. He obeyed. Qui-Gon placed his hands Anakin's shoulder. He looked into the boy's eyes.
"You belong here Anakin. Be yourself and all will be well." Anakin relaxed a bit under the warm gaze of his Master. He smiled faintly trying not to lose his nerve.
"I'm sure walking in will be the worst of it. Once they get a good look at me then they will lose interest. " He said it more to convince himself than his master. Qui-Gon smiled.
"Be at peace little one. All will be well. I look forward to hearing all about it at noon." He gave the boy a brief hug, turned him and pushed him lightly towards the door. With a simple swoosh Anakin was on his way.
********************************
The noise in the Creche was so different from the rest of the Temple. Throughout the Temple there was an air of reserved serenity. In the creche it was all chaos and commotion. Obi-Wan loved spending time with the children. He was drawn to their innocence, trust and acceptance. They loved him right back. It was always a treat for them when their favorite Knight had some free time to spend with them. Today it was for a lesson involving paint and immense patience.
Adi knew that Obi-Wan had planned to spend his morning with the children. He had been on her mind all night. She might as well have joined him in meditation. She would have gotten more rest than she did tossing on her sleep couch all night.
As the lift doors opened onto the level she was bombarded by squeals of delight and the ever patient voices of the masters. She smiled as she made her way over to Master Lao-Miel.
"Good morning Master Gallia. To what do we owe this honor?" Master Lao- Miel asked bowing in respect of the Council Member.
"Oh please Lao you changed my nappies can't I just come down to say hello." Adi gave the woman a hug then stepped back. Adi had been a regular visitor to the crèche up until the time she had accepted the Council seat. Now there just weren't enough hours in the day.
"Of course my ever precocious Adi, but I have a feeling that someone else is responsible for drawing you here today." There was a knowing smile playing upon the older woman's lips.
"I never could fool you could I?" She laughed. "Where can I find him?"
"Just follow the noise. " Lao gestured down the hall from which the loudest squeals of joy were coming from. Now that Adi listened more closely she did hear several chats of Obi-Wan's name mixed in with other indistinguishable noises.
"How is he?" Adi asked knowing that Lao loved Obi-Wan as much as anyone in the Temple.
"He seems good, but then again he is good at protecting others from his pain. I am grateful he has you in his life to help him through this. I think it would be much harder for him if he were totally alone." She placed her hand on Adi's shoulder squeezing it with great affection.
"Well off I go into the fray. Wish me luck." Adi laughed and rolled her eyes.
"I can do better than that." The Master pulled a paint cloak from behind a counter and offered it to Adi. "It's Art Day." Adi happily took the cloak and threw it on swiftly as she made her way down the hallway.
Once she reached the classroom she was greeted with the charming and hilarious sight of a ginger haired knight covered in red, blue, purple and green hand prints as he attempted to help each child sign their masterpiece receiving endless hugs in the process.
"Golly Golly!" She looked up to see one of her special friends had recognized her and was quickly approaching with purple hands waiting to embrace her.
Obi-Wan turned just in time to see Adi fall victim to handprints herself. He smiled and turned back to the child who had been waiting as patiently as possible given the age limitations.
"Need some help?" She offered coming up from behind him.
"Always." He laughed and turned to her giving her a warm and loving gaze.
"I would give you a hug but you seem to have already met your quota for the day." She indicated the numerous hand prints covering the knight.
Obi-Wan's face grew serious as he turned to the artists surrounding him.
"Children, Master Gallia is under the impression that there is a limit to the number of hugs we are allowed in one day." His words brought forth a sincere chorus of "Oh No" from all the children. "I believe we must take it upon ourselves to show Master Gallia the error in this impression. What do you say? Can we help her out?" There was an enthusiastic crescendo of nods followed by a wave of children rushing upon the lovely master intent on teaching her the lesson of infinite hugs. She could hear Obi-Wan's contagious laughter above all the giggles. The hugs felt wonderful. She didn't mind being covered in paint. It was a small price to pay for such a priceless treasure of affection and strength.
Once the onslaught had passed Adi turned her attention to the children and thanked them for their lesson. Placing a mocked pout on her face she glanced from them to Obi-Wan then back to the children.
"Obi, you didn't give her a hug." A beautiful little girl with blond hair and big blue eyes cried out looking up at the knight.
Obi-Wan seeing the dramatics that were in play on the part of Adi shook his head and gave her a knowing smile. He then turned to the little girl who had addressed him.
"Kyla you are so right. How could I have overlooked something so important? I am a lucky knight indeed to have so many good friends to keep me on the right path." He turned to Adi and cupped her face with his hands staring lovingly into her beautiful sparking blue eyes. It was then that she noticed that there was a mischievous glint in his eyes only a moment later did she realize that his hands seemed cold and wet. He lowered his hands to her waist embracing her tightly. When he pulled back she took his hands in hers.
"I have paint all over my face now don't I?" She asked with mock irritation.
"I would have to say that 'all over' is a bit of an exaggeration." He smiled and placed his forehead to hers for a brief moment. "I am so glad to see you. I find it easier to breathe when you are near."
His words touched her. She could see the tell-tale signs of fatigue now that she was standing so close to him. She wondered if he had slept at all the night before.
"How did your meditation go?" She asked pulling away but still holding his hands. Just as he was about to respond there was a crash in the corner of the room followed by a mournful wail.
"Is anyone hurt?" He immediately asked as he saw the broken containers that had once held the various paint brushes for the classes to use.
Seeing that none of the children had been injured but had merely been startled by the noise, Adi gathered up the children and marched them down to the shower area to clean up. It would be lunch time before they were paint free. Obi-Wan began cleaning up the mess from the broken containers and also placing the paintings on the highest shelves so that they could dry undisturbed.
With their tasks completed they made their way out of the crèche area but only once promises had been made that at least Obi-Wan would be returning later that evening for story time. Adi looked over at the young man as he received his final goodbye kiss. He held so much of the innocence she felt in these children. There was something pure and wonderful about him. Her heart leapt as he looked up at her. She couldn't believe that this was really happening for them. She had waited so long and now he was looking at her just as she had always hoped that he would.
They waited patiently for the lift. Snickering slightly at his appearance, she covered her mouth in a veiled attempt to hide her amusement. He was covered in tiny hand prints, had paint on his face as well as in his hair, and even on his boots. He glanced over at her puffing out his chest with pride.
"Better than all the medals the Republic could ever award me." His voice was sincere and she took his hand in agreement.
The lift arrived. They made their way onto it. Adi selected the knight's level knowing that Obi-Wan would need to clean up before lunch. As soon as the doors closed he reached across her and hit the emergency stop.
"What-" Adi found herself unable to speak as she suddenly felt herself pinned against the side of the lift with Obi-Wan's lips devouring hers. She wrapped her arms around his waist pulling him tighter against her. She could feel his hard body and found herself squirming against it. He obviously enjoyed the motion of her body as he moaned into her mouth deepening the kiss further. Not to be out done, Adi used the moment of obvious distraction to her advantage reversing their positions as she rolled the knight onto his back. He laughed his lips never leaving hers. Finally out of breath and also feeling a bit pressed for time they separated. They stood momentarily staring heatedly into the other's eyes as they fought to catch their breath.
"I thought you said we were moving too fast. " She said watching Obi-Wan as he reached over to release the emergency stop.
She straightened her tunic and then set about righting his. "I don't remember saying that. It must be that age thing again. You are losing your memory now." She pulled him from the wall to stand next to her playfully giving him a punch in the shoulder in her own defense.
"Oh no you don't." She began, "You said we were moving too fast."
"Wanna bet?" he asked whispering in her ear. A slight shudder ran through her.
Refusing to take the bait she pressed on. "I am guessing that your meditation went well last night?" She absently smoothed her hair back into place.
"Actually yes and no." Obi-Wan said as he worked to adjust his belt into place.
"Well that is certainly cryptic. Are you going to decode that for me?" She smiled giving herself one last once over.
"Later." The word was barely out of his mouth when the doors opened onto his floor. There were several knights waiting for the lift. They greeted Obi-Wan with a round of good natured teasing concerning the amount of paint he was wearing and Master Gallia with reserve and respect. Obi-Wan exited the lift bowing formally to Adi.
"Master Gallia thank you for your assistance today in the crèche. I will meet you in the Water Garden this afternoon at two as you requested." He smiled and moved aside so that the waiting knights could finish entering the lift.
"It was my pleasure Knight Kenobi. I will see you then." She shot back completely unruffled.
*********************
Whispers, he hated whispers. He had heard them on Tatooine.
That boy is a slave.
He had heard them in the Council Chambers.
Dangerous surely you can sense it.
He had heard it on Lustar.
Rejected and now has to be trained here.
As Anakin made his way to his second class of the morning he once again heard whispers.
Reason Master Jinn abandoned Knight Kenobi. Doesn't look like the Chosen One to me. Chosen to do what? Freak. Bet Obi-Wan hates him.
On and on the whispers surrounded him. They beat him savagely with the weight of their insinuations and humiliation. Why had Master Jinn made him return to the Temple? Surely the old man had known that this would have happened to him. That is why he had told Anakin that he would have to be strong. Anakin was strong, but was tired of feeling left out and alone.
"Hey you!" He turned to face a red haired boy standing with a group of older padawans. "You the one that took Jinn away from Kenobi?" The words sounded threatening to Anakin.
"No." Anakin said turning back around.
"Yeah you are. You are the CHOSEN ONE right?" The group laughed at the sarcastic tone the boy used. Anakin felt his face grow warmer.
"I didn't take anyone away from Obi-Wan." He said over his shoulder grateful that the classroom was in view.
"That's not what I heard. I heard you were the reason that Obi-Wan almost didn't get to be knighted. " The boy had somehow caught up with Ani and was now blocking his entrance into the room. "We like Kenobi. Everyone likes Kenobi. You know what that means?"
Anakin shook his head and tried to move past the boy but failed. He kept his eyes lowered. He had learned on Tatooine that eye contact could get you into a lot of trouble.
"That means that NOBODY likes you." The boy poked Anakin in the chest once with his finger to emphasize his point.
Anakin looked up into the boys eyes. There wasn't any real sign of anger or hate in them just pure indifference. He was relieved for a moment but then realized that indifference was worse than hate. He was nothing to this person. He was less than nothing. Suddenly he felt exactly as he had as a slave. Anakin felt the anger inside the lockbox spill out and fill him.
"Hey." Entering the classroom, he looked up afraid of what might be coming next.
There was a girl on the far side of the room motioning for him to come and sit down. Well he thought she was a girl. She was a species of being he had never seen before but the voice had sounded female. Her skin was a beautiful golden color and even though she seemed to have something like gills on the side on her neck, he couldn't help but think she was lovely.
"How's it been today?" She asked making a motion with her head indicating the other age mates.
"Ok." Anakin said not wanting to open up to a complete stranger. Trust had to be earned.
"Bet it has been rough being the Chosen One and all." She rolled her eyes as she turned her data pad on. Anakin remained silent.
"You know they are all just big fans of Kenobi and sorta think that they have to be rough on you because he can't." Her comment caught him completely by surprise. Why would Obi-Wan want to be rough on him? He and Anakin had never had a chance to get to know each other very well, but he had always been polite to Anakin.
"I never did anything to Obi-Wan. We get along fine." He said defensively looking around at the other students who were listening in on their conversation.
"Whatever. I was just trying to let you know why everybody hates you."
The teaching Master entered the class. Anakin couldn't hear a word the man said as his mind tried to piece together all that he had overheard in the whispers that morning.
His being rejected by his age mates had nothing to do with Master Jinn. It was Obi-Wan's fault. He forced the hate he felt deeper inside the box and waited patiently for lunch. Then he could see his Master. It would mean enduring humiliation as he confessed the truth about his morning but at least it would be a friendly face.
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Master Lao-Miel, you guessed it, is another character from Untimely Frost. Thanks for sharing your brilliant imagination with me Cyn. I want to thank everyone for your comments about the first meeting between Obi and Qui. I didn't think you guys would really like it, but I had to be true to how I saw the story happening. This is sort of a transitional chapter. The next one is a bit more involved so it might take me an extra day. Don't give up on me ok? I will get it posted as soon as possible. Also does anyone know of a good system for deciding what content fits with which content rating. I am not sure if one of my upcoming chapters would be PG-13 or R. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks so much for all the support. I love it!!!!