Master Jinn released his hand on his son's mouth as soon as he knew Obi recognized him. He picked the child up with one hand and let the boy rest his head on the master's chest. Qui-Gon used his left arm to hold Obi-Wan and walked out of the shadows to greet Palpatine and Dooku.
Dooku paled white with fear when he saw Jinn. The Senator was not afraid but was indeed angered. Again the child had managed to escape his fate with him.
"Master Jinn, how good it is you are here. Maybe you will like to hitch a ride with us also."
"Excuse me I was not aware that my son was going anywhere tonight let alone board a ship and go three days from me to Coruscant."
"Oh that..Well you see.. I .. I planned to notify you once.. we were underway. Our mission is over and the Senator here offered us a ride. I didn't want the council to have to send a ship all the way here just to get us."
"Well, it seems that would have too anyway since you are leaving with only pat of the party in the mission. Had you forgotten I couldn't just sprout wings and fly back to Coruscant?"
Dooku could here the mounting accusatory tones in Jinn's voice. While he wouldn't say that the Senator and Dooku lied possibly because of the senator's status, he let them know he wasn't buying their story
Obi-Wan wrapped his arms around his father's neck even harder as he listened to the adults talk. He didn't really believe their story either but his little mind couldn't think of anything else the two had planned for him. He was just so very glad his father got there in time before they took off. Jinn knew was not the place to confront the two or make unsubstantiated accusation a against someone as high as Senator Palpatine's station on Coruscant. Of course there were Senator Palpatine body guards to contend with also. No this would not a the place to make a stand against these two, especially when his main concern dealt with his son now safely in his arms. He would retreat, contact Yoda, and get instructions from him. He knew he would be off this planet by morning and that he would not chance staying at the mansion that night.
'Very Well Master Dooku. You seem to be in such a dire rush to get home then go. Obi-Wan and I will find transportation the morning back home."
"I can take the child and it will be easier for you to hop a freighter to Coruscant without a little one in tow. He was under my care."
"Yes, yes he was until the mission was over, if I understood you right and by your own admittance the mission is now officially over. Obi-Wan is officially back in my care as it should be. The child stays with me. Any thing else you care to discuss? I really don't think you should hold the Senator up on this trip home do you Master Dooku?"
Both Senator Palpatine and Master Dooku boarded the ship without so much as a goodbye to the big Jedi. Neither of them really believed they had fooled the master. Although Jinn might not know exactly what was going on, they both knew Jinn suspected something was up and it had to deal with the his son.
###On the ship.###
"You know Dooku you can take your grandson and do "You. Know. What. With. him". I have no need of this. Any child with force powers will do. It doesn't have to be the son of the great Qui-Gon Jinn or even the grandson, of according to you, the even greater Master Dooku. Big laugh there *Master Jedi*. By the time Jinn speaks to the council and Master Yoda about you, you might just find yourself out the Jedi doors forever. I know Jinn is a favored Jedi of both Yoda and the council, even though his ways are peppered with rebellious rogue tendancies."
#####back with Qui-Gon and Obi#####
Qui-Gon returned to the mansion only long enough to tell the Lord and his family good bye and to pick his things up. Lord Byron gave Jinn and his son transportation back to the city. Qui-Gon, not trusting even the lord's men had them drop him off several blocks from where he had a room.
The Jedi master accustomed to very little or no sleep sat on a broken-down chair and watched his apprentice sleep quietly in an even more broken down bed.
//I can't imagine Senator Palatine staying in something like this. He certainly didn't want himself to be found out when he made his trips here. All the trips corresponded with the children's disappearance and eventual demise. Something there. It has to be .I am just missing it. I truly believe Obi-Wan might have been one of those missing had I not stopped the Senator and Dooku. I only wonder where or to who they planned to take my son. //
Jinn mulled all of this over. He contacted Master Yoda and he seemed to feel just as Jinn did but one couldn't accuse the Senator of wrongdoing without facts. Dooku on the other hand was a different matter and Yoda promised to get right on it though Dooku in his own rights had certain control of a few on the council. It would be difficult to impossible to oust a Jedi master of his stature, no matter what the circumstances were, other than a murder of someone.
He had not been able to glean any additional information from Obi-Wan after they arrived at the motel. The child was sleepy and worn out. Though he wouldn't admit it to his master he was terrified of being taken off planet by Dooku without Qui-Gon. He wanted to play the brave little Jedi apprentice and Master Jinn intended, for now, to let him.
Qui never acted like he suspected the boy's fears and when Obi-Wan wiped his eyes and his nose on his sleeve, Jinn only turned his head and smiled. His imp thought he had successfully hidden the crying.
The morning sun brought with it the promise of less danger and a speedy trip home. Jinn had decided he would not go to Coruscant after all. He wanted to get home where he felt he was needed not only by his fellow Jedi but also by his nephew, who in his own way needed the father figure that only Qui-Gon could provide him.
The Jedi master managed to find one seat on a small transport that would take he and Obi-Wan home. The child didn't have to pay and rightly so thought Jinn. There was no seat to put him in. Qui-Gon found one lone empty seat back in the rear of the overloaded transport. He lifted Obi up in his lap and tried to catch a couple hours of sleep amidst all the noise and chaos of the crowded ship carrying crying babies and yakking older women. Father and son, heads touching and hearts beating in unison, side by side, nestled together in a moment of complete tranquility.
#####back at the temple#####
Qui-Gon felt a sense of peace wash over him as soon as he walked into *his* little temple.
//Nothing like being home to make you feel better no matter what the circumstance. //
Obi-Wan seemed more content to be home as well. Jinn could feel the tension in the child the entire trip home. Whether he was afraid that Dooku would get to him some way or not, Jinn didn't know. He just knew the child was as glad as he was to be back home.
Damien seemed more excited than anyone that his uncle was home. He ran and actually gave Master Jinn a big hug when he came in. That in its self was unusual for him. He was not noted to show expression of love especially since his father died. Now guilt encompassed Master Jinn replacing his feeling of utter peace at being home, because he realized he had been neglecting his brother's son. He wasn't doing as he promised his brother on his death bed.
//I will see to it I make time for Damien. I know I have so much to do, but he deserves my attention just as Obi-Wan does. //
Qui-Gon tried to ignore everything but what was going on at the temple. Dooku had not been heard from since Senator Palpatine said he dropped him off in Coruscant but thus far he hadn't showed up. Neither Jinn or Yoda believed the Senator's story, but said nothing. If their suspicions were right then Dooku had left the Jedi for greener pastures possibly the dark side.
Qui-Gon stayed focused on Damien. He ignored the fact that Obi-Wan still couldn't control his shields. He believed now that the child had been able too, but due to a mind sweep either by Dooku or Palpatine he couldn't remember how he did it.
Obi-Wan stood on the sidelines and watched Damien consume his father's time. He tried very hard not to be jealous because he truly wanted to share his dad but with each passing day it became harder and harder for the little one to be so shut out from his dad.
His Jedi training was doing quite well. Although he hadn't be able to control his shields with any consistency whosoever, other Jedi apprentice traits just seemed to come naturally to the child the more and more he trained.
Master Riddon had him in his saber training class and found the child rapidly advanced with his training saber. He had not had the benefit of training since the crèche, as the other padawans had and he was a good four years younger but that didn't stop the determination of the little one to succeed.
The worst part about his success was not no one seemed to care about it, except Master Riddon.
Obi-Wan had adjusted to not fearing his grandfather's return. He hadn't been heard from. Qui-Gon didn't tell the boy anything about his grandfather, he kinda overheard his dad and Master Riddon discussing it.
Master Riddon went to him and told Master Jinn how well Obi-Wan was doing. Obi was there and waited for his dad to lavish praise on him as Master Riddon had just done. However, it didn't happen.
Qui-Gon was in a hurry to get to the stables so he and Damien could take the horses out for a ride. Obi heard bits of the conversation as Riddon walked Jinn outside, but there was never a mention of Obi-Wan and his astute abilities.
Qui-Gon mentioned Dooku only because the guards kept a close watch out for him. He then went into to a spiel about Damien and he connecting so much better. Even Master Riddon said Damien was doing better now that Qui-Gon had made more time for the his nephew.
######
The little apprentice sat at the window and watched for his dad to come back. He hoped there would be some mention of how well he was doing, once he returned from his *exclusive* outing with only Damien. He had not been invited to go.
//Maybe my master was just in a hurry and didn't really have time then to say too much. I bet he mentions it tonight. Maybe at last-meal. //
Obi waited for his dad and watched the birds outside. Spring was just around the corner, the snow almost melted away, and lily flags had already begun to burst out of the soil.
Myra came in to see her grandson watching out the window. She knew he was probably waiting on his father and was glad he wasn't included when Qui-Gn took Damien horse-back riding. She was very glad that Obi-Wan hadn't really been included in anything Damien and Qui-Gon, did lately and that her son was becoming more like he used to be where Damien was concerned.
//I knew my oldest son would come back to his senses and see he was not honoring the promise to his brother, Amos. Now maybe he will see what he has been doing and decide to permanently halt this ridiculous way of life; leave the Jedi for good and go back to the farm where we all belong. Well except him, but if Obi-Wan is meant to be a Jedi he can be one without his father. Any master will do to train the child.//
Yes Myra was beginning to think things were turning her way. She knew she would have to be very careful how she handled Obi-Wan right now. Maybe later, but right now Jinn was still protective of him, even though they had not spent much time together.
######
Obi-Wan raced to the door when he saw his father and Damien come in. They were both very chilled by the spring air and started to head to the dinng area for a cup of tea.
"Master?"
Qui-Gon looked to the right to his son standing there. It never occurred to him that Obi-Wan would be jealous. They had just come back from a mission together and Damien had not been allowed to go so why would Obi-Wan object to him spending time with his nephew? He had gone over all this with the boy not two nights ago. His love for the child was no less but he explained to Obi that he must spend some time alone with Damien.
Obi-Wan in all the wisdom of an eight-year-old understood then, but the dealing with it was much harder.
"What is it Obi? Is something wrong?"
"No master I .. Well I know Master Riddon told you about my progress in my Jedi training and… I…?"
"Plese Obi-Wan, I am cold and would like some tea."
Qui-Gon used his fist to nudge Damien in the arm with a play punch.
"We both have frozen our butts off, haven't we *son*?"
"Yeah and just remember Uncle Qui, I beat you in that horse race."
"Yes you did and I will never live it down when it gets around the temple. You are very good at your equestrian talents."
Obi-Wan suddenly didn't feel like begging for praise. It was making him sick listening to that mushy stuff between his father and Damien.
"Well Obi I am waiting. Say what you have to say so Damien and I can have that tea."
Just then Myra stepped from the dining area.
"Qui, Damien I have the tea and hot sweet breads ready for you. Go along Obi-Wan you just had a glass of milk earlier. Let your master and Damien finish their day together."
Obi just hung his head in rejection and left.
//Let my master spend all the time he wants with Damien, but he *still* isn't my dad's *son,* I Am….//
That evening a neglected-feeling Obi-Wan Kenobi sat at the table and listened to a conversation he didn't want to here and couldn't believe he heard it.
Master Riddon mentioned the upcoming *spring break* for the padawans. Their master's took their padawans either to their home world or just out on a field trip somewhere of their choosing. Bruck's master had been called away and he was stuck with Master Riddon to oversee him and the master also mentioned Obi-Wan would need to stay there through his break because of missed classes during his mission.
Master Riddon said he would over see to both padawans and suggested Jinn take Damien and his mother Myra back home to the farm for a couple of weeks. He thought it would do Damien a world of good to spend time back and his home and Qui-Gon had to agree.
The Jedi master had found it hard juggling Jedi Master over fathering two boys. It was made even harder because one was a Jedi apprentice of sorts and the other had no Jedi in him. Jinn was beginning to think it harmful for Damien not to spend any time with his *normal* friends. Not that Jedi padawans weren't normal but they certainly were a lot different than Damien or his friends.
The only snag in Master's Riddon's suggestion was the idea of leaving Bruck, notorious for his jokes and tricks on Obi at the temple with the boy there. Jinn thought of a perfect idea and things for Padawan Kenboi went down hill from there.
Qui-Gon suggested he take Bruck along with him as a companion and to meet Damien's other friends. He thought it really might be helpful for the apprentice to see how the other half lived. If nothing else it would keep him from being at the temple to pester Obi-Wan mindless.
###############
The day arrived for Master Jinn to carry his little family minus one off to their home for a two-week visit.
Obi-Wan being almost nine now knew he must at least try to be stoic about this. His father had explained he would have rather had Obi with him, but he needed to get caught back up on his apprenticeship studies..
Obi thought it had something to do with not being able to control his shields thus blocking their bond.
//If I can't even be a very good apprentice then Dad must think I am not a very good son.//
Maybe Obi-Wan would be nine in a couple of months but his thoughts were child-like and worrisome. He piled enough undeserved guilt on his shoulders to weight him down.
No one saw the little one of Qui-Gon Jinn's run to his room in a fit of tears after he stoically watched his father leave him to spend time with his other *responsibility*. A responsibility Obi thought his master enjoyed having right now more than him.
###At the Jinn farm#####
Qui-Gon put on a good front at being happy. It was not that some of him didn't love being back home, but the Jedi part missed the temple and most of all his son, Obi-Wan. Things weren't the same without his *imp* to bring his daily dose of sunshine which had unknowingly become so much a part of Jinn that his heart ached to have the boy by his side. He regretted in some way his decision to up and leave the temple and Obi. He had begun to see that Jedi life was the only life to bring him any kind of happiness and feeling of contentment. It was a hard life dotted with danger sometimes on every mission. But Jedi life was in the master's blood now and it would be hard to extradite especially with his padawan son to consider. This trip back to the farm only made the master see more clearly how own his life should be molded not only for his sake but for the sake of his son. Now the master would have to decide what should be done with Damien.
Obi-Wan tried not to mope around the temple. He did everything Master Riddon asked of him. In fact he liked Master Riddon very much. He was kind and seemed to understand the child was going through a difficult time with his separation from Qui-Gon. It was not just the physical separation but the mental separation that was doing a great deal of harm. Obi worked on his shields and found that he was beginning to make head way. Even Master Jinn could feel their bond opening and closing like a door in the wind. That made Obi-Wan feel even worse about being away from his master. It was like a raw opened wound in Obi's mind every time he accidentally opened the bond, only to have it abruptly close when his shields went up. It made the boy feel even more cut off from his master. The missing of the father side of Qui-Gon was bad but feeling the mental connection of his master only to lose it brought the boy insurmountable pain. It was not going unnoticed by Obi for the pain had become unbearable with constant nausea and vomiting. Jinn was also starting to realize the little one was suffering because of his inability to keep his shields out of the way and the bond staying there viable and alive.
Myra was beginning to see that her son had become a little withdrawn and little more unhappy with each passing day. She knew that Obi-Wan had not been well the last several days and Jinn was getting that residual feeling of hi son's illness from Obi-Wan. She only hoped that was the reason and not regret for coming back to the farm. She knew deep down that Qui-Gon was much happier being a Jedi. At this time in her life she was not concerned for her son's happiness, she was concerned for her favorite son's child, Damien. Even though dead Amos got more love and caring from his mother than the outsider who left her at a young age, Qui-Gon. That's how she would always feel about Qui-Gon; she could love him but only to a point. Her dead son had been her life and now she had Damien to carry that love on.
The following morning after break-fast Jinn received a comm from Master Riddon with some unsettling news, although he really didn't need to be informed at all. He had felt Obi-Wan's increased distress which was soon collaborated by Riddon's comm to Jinn begging his pardon for intrusion on his vacation but he explained to Qui-Gon Obi-Wan seemed to be worse that day. Yes, he assured Master Jinn one of the healers who stayed there, checked the boy over and gave him a tiny little yellow pill to ease his intestinal distress. The only true thing to help the child would be to keep his shields down and bathe in the force signature of his father to coat the raw nerves in his mind.
"I know I might not able to do anything but I should be there."
"Master Jinn don't lay a guilt trip on your own head. This trip was good for you and your bond with Damien."
//Bond I have no bond with Damien. It is beginning to feel more like an obligation and duty to him but no bond. I should be there to give Obi-Wan his medicine and rub his back until he fell asleep. //
Jinn had begun to feel more and more manipulated by his mother and Damien. It was just feeling but it was there and strongly there.
Master Riddon had described massaging Obi-Wan's back until he was able to fall in a restless sleep very early this morning. Riddon sat on the edge of Obi-Wan's bed as he spoke to Jinn, fearing to leave the boy in case he awoke suddenly. The kindly old master didn't want the child to be alone for a second.
The big Jedi master's mind was made up as he walked out of his makeshift office/den. He would leave immediately back to the temple. He hadn't decided whether he would stay there or bring the boy back to the farm. He imagined it would be decided once he knew what the healer thought would be best for him to do with Obi-Wan. When it came down to it that's the only thing in Jinn's mind right now. His brother would just have to forgive him for overlooking his son for Qui-Gon's very life-line, his *imp*.
Qui could here his nephew in the kitchen with Myra whispering about something. He stood just around the corner intentionally eavesdropping because he not only heard the mention of his name but also Obi's.
"You had the right idea Grandmother. That day Uncle Qui came home from his mission and I flew into his arms, cinched it for us."
"Yes, well don't gloat too much Damien and don't be telling Bruck everything. If that child of Qui's would get over that sickness, if its not made up, then your chances, our chances of remaining here would be a lot better. I am hoping that stubborn son of mine sees that this is the best place for you and he and that any common master can train that inept *Jedi* child of his. His problems stem from not even being able to keep his shields down, yet the masters at the temple rant about how great a potential he is. I heard it daily from them."
"Grandmother you are right about one thing it will be nice to be home and have Obi-Wan out of hair all at the same time."
Just then Qui-Gon walked into the kitchen where Damien and his mother stood.
"I just came in to let you know I have to go back and see about Obi-Wan today. He is still not feeling well."
It took all that was in the Jedi master to stay calm and reserve. He didn't want his little family to know he had heard them conspiring against he and his son.
"That's shame. Are you sure the child is not faking it to get added attention; to accomplish what he just has, your return to the temple?"
Had either of them taken the time to notice, they would have seen Master Jinn clenching and unclenching his fists to control his feelings.
"No mother, I don't think the child is putting on a pretentious illness for the sake of getting me home. A healer saw him this morning and concurred the same sentiments. Obi-Wan is indeed ill."
Jinn turned to go. He wanted time to think about what he heard and decide his course of actions much like Damien and Myra had decided theirs.
"But Qui-Gon what about Bruck?"
"Yes, I did forget that didn't I? He will go back with me.'
Damien sat down at the counter and pouted.
"I hope you let him come back with you."
" Qui, that's another thing. When did you say you would be returning?"
Myra looked deep into her son's eyes and saw an unsettling *dark* look penetrate the master's normally twinkling-blue eyes.
"I don't think I said with any certainty that I would return…"
Qui-Gon had been traveling for over an hour when he heard his comm buzz with a call for him.
"Master Jinn I am so glad I could reach you. Your mother told me that you had already left to return here."
Qui-Gon could here a touch of urgency in the voice of the older master and his first thought was that Obi-Wan had become worse.
"Is Obi-Wan worse? Is there something wrong Master Riddon?"
"Yes there is but it has nothing to do is to Obi-Wan's medical condition. I would have no way of knowing how bad he is feeling right now. Jinn, I hate to be the one to tell you this but Obi-Wan is missing. He wanted to sit by the lake and feed his ducks. I took him out there and tucked a warm blanket around him. I returned not ten minutes later with a hot cup of chocolate and the child was gone. I know he is not in the lake. Besides Obi is an excellent swimmer. I found his blanket about fifty feet away. I am afraid this disappearerance has something to do with Dooku being here earlier."
Qui-Gon Jinn could not believe he heard what he just did, //*DOOKU*//
"Dooku when was he there? He was not to have access to the temple."
"I know that and so do the guards. He was stopped by the gate. I went out and talked to him. I explained he was not allowed in and that if he wished to have any contact with Obi-Wan he was to talk with you, solely with you were my exact words. He took it quite well and left. Well I thought he did and I thought no more of it. I mean I know the man is stubborn but to go against the order."
"There's nothing I would past that man to get Obi-Wan. I will be there in less than an hour. See if you can find any clues as to which way they went."
"I'll do that Qui-Gon. I feel so badly at letting your son be kidnapped after you put your faith in me to see to it he was taken care of."
"No Master Riddon, blaming yourself will help nothing. Dooku set out to do this and I think no matter where Obi-Wan was he would have gotten his hands on him."
"Very well Master Jinn. I will do what I can at this end. It is too bad that Obi-Wan experienced so much difficulty in controlling his shields. Your mental link would come in very helpful right now."
"Yes had I stayed and worked on it with him, things might right now be different."
Quilt overwhelmed the master as he sped up to get to his temple to find his son.
By the time Jinn reached the temple the entire grounds had been searched with no clue as to which way Dooku left when he took the child. The guards still roamed the grounds, although they held out little hope of finding Obi-Wan or even a clue to his whereabouts. Dooku had been quite thorough in covering his tracks to keep from being followed. Not one little clue or an extra broken branch around the temple could be found. Dooku was gone with Qui-Gon Jinn's son.
Qui-Gon dropped to his knees on the cold hard ground of the temple and meditated right there even before entering the temple. If only he could be given a reprieve from this nightmare he thought, things would be different.
//No one would have come before Obi-Wan. I would have, should have never left the child when I knew of possible dangers from Dooku and possibly the dark lord himself. This is all l my fault and I am not sure I will be able to correct it. I need to find Obi-Wan before Dooku takes him off planet to *sith* knows where. //
Jinn aided by the force reached out through the shared bond and tried to contact the child. He did it so many times that Master Riddon finally had to insist the master go in to the warmth of the temple and talk things over with Master Yoda. Qui-Gon got up and straightened his legs to relieve some of the stiffness from the cold and kneeling too long. He hoped that Obi at least felt a nudge against his shields and that he would attempt to lower them so that Jinn could locate him. Jinn continually tested the tendril of their bond to make sure Obi-Wan hadn't inadvertently dropped his shields. Qui-Gon didn't want an opportunity to locate the boy through their bond to go by him.
Master Yoda dispatched a group of knights and masters to aid in the search for Master's Jinn's son as soon as he got the news of the child's's kidnapping. He knew the temple where Qui-Gon dwelled was practically empty because of the spring break that had just begun..
Jinn paced the floor of the temple and wrung his hands. Right now he did not feel like the powerful Jedi Master that Obi-Wan always referred to him as. He felt as helpless as a kitten. He had fought sith, battled an entire Huttnese army and been plummeted by many numerous alien life forms but the seeking out of one little boy taken by his grandfather brought the big man to his knees. Not with fear for he had none for himself. He was at a loss as to how to find his son, without their mental connection.
He was just about to complete his twentieth walk through the temple when something nudged at his mind. A voice, yes that was it. A very faint voice of who he hoped was Obi-Wan. The voice was too faint to make out whoit was or what was said.
Jinn stopped in the middle of his walk and waited. It was as if he took another step the fleeting voice would be nonexistent or disappear just as quickly as it came.
Another group of words, a tiny bit louder but still not recognizable were the words or who was saying them. It had to be Obi-Wan but why wasn't he coming in clearer?
Fear gripped the master. What if Dooku had already taken him into space. That would make their link weaker, especially with a little one like Obi unable to control it
Qui-Gon could at least release a little of his anxiety because he knew Obi-Wan was still alive. Though the master never really thought the intent to kidnap Obi-Wan was to kill him. He knew deep down Obi was wanted for his powers of the force to work some kind of evil once trained in ways of the dark side.
Just as Master Jinn was going over in his mind what would cause the voice to be so weak if Obi-Wan was not yet off planet, the boy's mental connection came in much clearer than before.
//Master, Dad, please come and get me. I'm cold, scared, and don't feel so good!!! I want to go home. //
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Thank You for the feedback and the tips on writing. I appreciate both, esp. when done with such kindness!!
PEACE ewen
Dooku paled white with fear when he saw Jinn. The Senator was not afraid but was indeed angered. Again the child had managed to escape his fate with him.
"Master Jinn, how good it is you are here. Maybe you will like to hitch a ride with us also."
"Excuse me I was not aware that my son was going anywhere tonight let alone board a ship and go three days from me to Coruscant."
"Oh that..Well you see.. I .. I planned to notify you once.. we were underway. Our mission is over and the Senator here offered us a ride. I didn't want the council to have to send a ship all the way here just to get us."
"Well, it seems that would have too anyway since you are leaving with only pat of the party in the mission. Had you forgotten I couldn't just sprout wings and fly back to Coruscant?"
Dooku could here the mounting accusatory tones in Jinn's voice. While he wouldn't say that the Senator and Dooku lied possibly because of the senator's status, he let them know he wasn't buying their story
Obi-Wan wrapped his arms around his father's neck even harder as he listened to the adults talk. He didn't really believe their story either but his little mind couldn't think of anything else the two had planned for him. He was just so very glad his father got there in time before they took off. Jinn knew was not the place to confront the two or make unsubstantiated accusation a against someone as high as Senator Palpatine's station on Coruscant. Of course there were Senator Palpatine body guards to contend with also. No this would not a the place to make a stand against these two, especially when his main concern dealt with his son now safely in his arms. He would retreat, contact Yoda, and get instructions from him. He knew he would be off this planet by morning and that he would not chance staying at the mansion that night.
'Very Well Master Dooku. You seem to be in such a dire rush to get home then go. Obi-Wan and I will find transportation the morning back home."
"I can take the child and it will be easier for you to hop a freighter to Coruscant without a little one in tow. He was under my care."
"Yes, yes he was until the mission was over, if I understood you right and by your own admittance the mission is now officially over. Obi-Wan is officially back in my care as it should be. The child stays with me. Any thing else you care to discuss? I really don't think you should hold the Senator up on this trip home do you Master Dooku?"
Both Senator Palpatine and Master Dooku boarded the ship without so much as a goodbye to the big Jedi. Neither of them really believed they had fooled the master. Although Jinn might not know exactly what was going on, they both knew Jinn suspected something was up and it had to deal with the his son.
###On the ship.###
"You know Dooku you can take your grandson and do "You. Know. What. With. him". I have no need of this. Any child with force powers will do. It doesn't have to be the son of the great Qui-Gon Jinn or even the grandson, of according to you, the even greater Master Dooku. Big laugh there *Master Jedi*. By the time Jinn speaks to the council and Master Yoda about you, you might just find yourself out the Jedi doors forever. I know Jinn is a favored Jedi of both Yoda and the council, even though his ways are peppered with rebellious rogue tendancies."
#####back with Qui-Gon and Obi#####
Qui-Gon returned to the mansion only long enough to tell the Lord and his family good bye and to pick his things up. Lord Byron gave Jinn and his son transportation back to the city. Qui-Gon, not trusting even the lord's men had them drop him off several blocks from where he had a room.
The Jedi master accustomed to very little or no sleep sat on a broken-down chair and watched his apprentice sleep quietly in an even more broken down bed.
//I can't imagine Senator Palatine staying in something like this. He certainly didn't want himself to be found out when he made his trips here. All the trips corresponded with the children's disappearance and eventual demise. Something there. It has to be .I am just missing it. I truly believe Obi-Wan might have been one of those missing had I not stopped the Senator and Dooku. I only wonder where or to who they planned to take my son. //
Jinn mulled all of this over. He contacted Master Yoda and he seemed to feel just as Jinn did but one couldn't accuse the Senator of wrongdoing without facts. Dooku on the other hand was a different matter and Yoda promised to get right on it though Dooku in his own rights had certain control of a few on the council. It would be difficult to impossible to oust a Jedi master of his stature, no matter what the circumstances were, other than a murder of someone.
He had not been able to glean any additional information from Obi-Wan after they arrived at the motel. The child was sleepy and worn out. Though he wouldn't admit it to his master he was terrified of being taken off planet by Dooku without Qui-Gon. He wanted to play the brave little Jedi apprentice and Master Jinn intended, for now, to let him.
Qui never acted like he suspected the boy's fears and when Obi-Wan wiped his eyes and his nose on his sleeve, Jinn only turned his head and smiled. His imp thought he had successfully hidden the crying.
The morning sun brought with it the promise of less danger and a speedy trip home. Jinn had decided he would not go to Coruscant after all. He wanted to get home where he felt he was needed not only by his fellow Jedi but also by his nephew, who in his own way needed the father figure that only Qui-Gon could provide him.
The Jedi master managed to find one seat on a small transport that would take he and Obi-Wan home. The child didn't have to pay and rightly so thought Jinn. There was no seat to put him in. Qui-Gon found one lone empty seat back in the rear of the overloaded transport. He lifted Obi up in his lap and tried to catch a couple hours of sleep amidst all the noise and chaos of the crowded ship carrying crying babies and yakking older women. Father and son, heads touching and hearts beating in unison, side by side, nestled together in a moment of complete tranquility.
#####back at the temple#####
Qui-Gon felt a sense of peace wash over him as soon as he walked into *his* little temple.
//Nothing like being home to make you feel better no matter what the circumstance. //
Obi-Wan seemed more content to be home as well. Jinn could feel the tension in the child the entire trip home. Whether he was afraid that Dooku would get to him some way or not, Jinn didn't know. He just knew the child was as glad as he was to be back home.
Damien seemed more excited than anyone that his uncle was home. He ran and actually gave Master Jinn a big hug when he came in. That in its self was unusual for him. He was not noted to show expression of love especially since his father died. Now guilt encompassed Master Jinn replacing his feeling of utter peace at being home, because he realized he had been neglecting his brother's son. He wasn't doing as he promised his brother on his death bed.
//I will see to it I make time for Damien. I know I have so much to do, but he deserves my attention just as Obi-Wan does. //
Qui-Gon tried to ignore everything but what was going on at the temple. Dooku had not been heard from since Senator Palpatine said he dropped him off in Coruscant but thus far he hadn't showed up. Neither Jinn or Yoda believed the Senator's story, but said nothing. If their suspicions were right then Dooku had left the Jedi for greener pastures possibly the dark side.
Qui-Gon stayed focused on Damien. He ignored the fact that Obi-Wan still couldn't control his shields. He believed now that the child had been able too, but due to a mind sweep either by Dooku or Palpatine he couldn't remember how he did it.
Obi-Wan stood on the sidelines and watched Damien consume his father's time. He tried very hard not to be jealous because he truly wanted to share his dad but with each passing day it became harder and harder for the little one to be so shut out from his dad.
His Jedi training was doing quite well. Although he hadn't be able to control his shields with any consistency whosoever, other Jedi apprentice traits just seemed to come naturally to the child the more and more he trained.
Master Riddon had him in his saber training class and found the child rapidly advanced with his training saber. He had not had the benefit of training since the crèche, as the other padawans had and he was a good four years younger but that didn't stop the determination of the little one to succeed.
The worst part about his success was not no one seemed to care about it, except Master Riddon.
Obi-Wan had adjusted to not fearing his grandfather's return. He hadn't been heard from. Qui-Gon didn't tell the boy anything about his grandfather, he kinda overheard his dad and Master Riddon discussing it.
Master Riddon went to him and told Master Jinn how well Obi-Wan was doing. Obi was there and waited for his dad to lavish praise on him as Master Riddon had just done. However, it didn't happen.
Qui-Gon was in a hurry to get to the stables so he and Damien could take the horses out for a ride. Obi heard bits of the conversation as Riddon walked Jinn outside, but there was never a mention of Obi-Wan and his astute abilities.
Qui-Gon mentioned Dooku only because the guards kept a close watch out for him. He then went into to a spiel about Damien and he connecting so much better. Even Master Riddon said Damien was doing better now that Qui-Gon had made more time for the his nephew.
######
The little apprentice sat at the window and watched for his dad to come back. He hoped there would be some mention of how well he was doing, once he returned from his *exclusive* outing with only Damien. He had not been invited to go.
//Maybe my master was just in a hurry and didn't really have time then to say too much. I bet he mentions it tonight. Maybe at last-meal. //
Obi waited for his dad and watched the birds outside. Spring was just around the corner, the snow almost melted away, and lily flags had already begun to burst out of the soil.
Myra came in to see her grandson watching out the window. She knew he was probably waiting on his father and was glad he wasn't included when Qui-Gn took Damien horse-back riding. She was very glad that Obi-Wan hadn't really been included in anything Damien and Qui-Gon, did lately and that her son was becoming more like he used to be where Damien was concerned.
//I knew my oldest son would come back to his senses and see he was not honoring the promise to his brother, Amos. Now maybe he will see what he has been doing and decide to permanently halt this ridiculous way of life; leave the Jedi for good and go back to the farm where we all belong. Well except him, but if Obi-Wan is meant to be a Jedi he can be one without his father. Any master will do to train the child.//
Yes Myra was beginning to think things were turning her way. She knew she would have to be very careful how she handled Obi-Wan right now. Maybe later, but right now Jinn was still protective of him, even though they had not spent much time together.
######
Obi-Wan raced to the door when he saw his father and Damien come in. They were both very chilled by the spring air and started to head to the dinng area for a cup of tea.
"Master?"
Qui-Gon looked to the right to his son standing there. It never occurred to him that Obi-Wan would be jealous. They had just come back from a mission together and Damien had not been allowed to go so why would Obi-Wan object to him spending time with his nephew? He had gone over all this with the boy not two nights ago. His love for the child was no less but he explained to Obi that he must spend some time alone with Damien.
Obi-Wan in all the wisdom of an eight-year-old understood then, but the dealing with it was much harder.
"What is it Obi? Is something wrong?"
"No master I .. Well I know Master Riddon told you about my progress in my Jedi training and… I…?"
"Plese Obi-Wan, I am cold and would like some tea."
Qui-Gon used his fist to nudge Damien in the arm with a play punch.
"We both have frozen our butts off, haven't we *son*?"
"Yeah and just remember Uncle Qui, I beat you in that horse race."
"Yes you did and I will never live it down when it gets around the temple. You are very good at your equestrian talents."
Obi-Wan suddenly didn't feel like begging for praise. It was making him sick listening to that mushy stuff between his father and Damien.
"Well Obi I am waiting. Say what you have to say so Damien and I can have that tea."
Just then Myra stepped from the dining area.
"Qui, Damien I have the tea and hot sweet breads ready for you. Go along Obi-Wan you just had a glass of milk earlier. Let your master and Damien finish their day together."
Obi just hung his head in rejection and left.
//Let my master spend all the time he wants with Damien, but he *still* isn't my dad's *son,* I Am….//
That evening a neglected-feeling Obi-Wan Kenobi sat at the table and listened to a conversation he didn't want to here and couldn't believe he heard it.
Master Riddon mentioned the upcoming *spring break* for the padawans. Their master's took their padawans either to their home world or just out on a field trip somewhere of their choosing. Bruck's master had been called away and he was stuck with Master Riddon to oversee him and the master also mentioned Obi-Wan would need to stay there through his break because of missed classes during his mission.
Master Riddon said he would over see to both padawans and suggested Jinn take Damien and his mother Myra back home to the farm for a couple of weeks. He thought it would do Damien a world of good to spend time back and his home and Qui-Gon had to agree.
The Jedi master had found it hard juggling Jedi Master over fathering two boys. It was made even harder because one was a Jedi apprentice of sorts and the other had no Jedi in him. Jinn was beginning to think it harmful for Damien not to spend any time with his *normal* friends. Not that Jedi padawans weren't normal but they certainly were a lot different than Damien or his friends.
The only snag in Master's Riddon's suggestion was the idea of leaving Bruck, notorious for his jokes and tricks on Obi at the temple with the boy there. Jinn thought of a perfect idea and things for Padawan Kenboi went down hill from there.
Qui-Gon suggested he take Bruck along with him as a companion and to meet Damien's other friends. He thought it really might be helpful for the apprentice to see how the other half lived. If nothing else it would keep him from being at the temple to pester Obi-Wan mindless.
###############
The day arrived for Master Jinn to carry his little family minus one off to their home for a two-week visit.
Obi-Wan being almost nine now knew he must at least try to be stoic about this. His father had explained he would have rather had Obi with him, but he needed to get caught back up on his apprenticeship studies..
Obi thought it had something to do with not being able to control his shields thus blocking their bond.
//If I can't even be a very good apprentice then Dad must think I am not a very good son.//
Maybe Obi-Wan would be nine in a couple of months but his thoughts were child-like and worrisome. He piled enough undeserved guilt on his shoulders to weight him down.
No one saw the little one of Qui-Gon Jinn's run to his room in a fit of tears after he stoically watched his father leave him to spend time with his other *responsibility*. A responsibility Obi thought his master enjoyed having right now more than him.
###At the Jinn farm#####
Qui-Gon put on a good front at being happy. It was not that some of him didn't love being back home, but the Jedi part missed the temple and most of all his son, Obi-Wan. Things weren't the same without his *imp* to bring his daily dose of sunshine which had unknowingly become so much a part of Jinn that his heart ached to have the boy by his side. He regretted in some way his decision to up and leave the temple and Obi. He had begun to see that Jedi life was the only life to bring him any kind of happiness and feeling of contentment. It was a hard life dotted with danger sometimes on every mission. But Jedi life was in the master's blood now and it would be hard to extradite especially with his padawan son to consider. This trip back to the farm only made the master see more clearly how own his life should be molded not only for his sake but for the sake of his son. Now the master would have to decide what should be done with Damien.
Obi-Wan tried not to mope around the temple. He did everything Master Riddon asked of him. In fact he liked Master Riddon very much. He was kind and seemed to understand the child was going through a difficult time with his separation from Qui-Gon. It was not just the physical separation but the mental separation that was doing a great deal of harm. Obi worked on his shields and found that he was beginning to make head way. Even Master Jinn could feel their bond opening and closing like a door in the wind. That made Obi-Wan feel even worse about being away from his master. It was like a raw opened wound in Obi's mind every time he accidentally opened the bond, only to have it abruptly close when his shields went up. It made the boy feel even more cut off from his master. The missing of the father side of Qui-Gon was bad but feeling the mental connection of his master only to lose it brought the boy insurmountable pain. It was not going unnoticed by Obi for the pain had become unbearable with constant nausea and vomiting. Jinn was also starting to realize the little one was suffering because of his inability to keep his shields out of the way and the bond staying there viable and alive.
Myra was beginning to see that her son had become a little withdrawn and little more unhappy with each passing day. She knew that Obi-Wan had not been well the last several days and Jinn was getting that residual feeling of hi son's illness from Obi-Wan. She only hoped that was the reason and not regret for coming back to the farm. She knew deep down that Qui-Gon was much happier being a Jedi. At this time in her life she was not concerned for her son's happiness, she was concerned for her favorite son's child, Damien. Even though dead Amos got more love and caring from his mother than the outsider who left her at a young age, Qui-Gon. That's how she would always feel about Qui-Gon; she could love him but only to a point. Her dead son had been her life and now she had Damien to carry that love on.
The following morning after break-fast Jinn received a comm from Master Riddon with some unsettling news, although he really didn't need to be informed at all. He had felt Obi-Wan's increased distress which was soon collaborated by Riddon's comm to Jinn begging his pardon for intrusion on his vacation but he explained to Qui-Gon Obi-Wan seemed to be worse that day. Yes, he assured Master Jinn one of the healers who stayed there, checked the boy over and gave him a tiny little yellow pill to ease his intestinal distress. The only true thing to help the child would be to keep his shields down and bathe in the force signature of his father to coat the raw nerves in his mind.
"I know I might not able to do anything but I should be there."
"Master Jinn don't lay a guilt trip on your own head. This trip was good for you and your bond with Damien."
//Bond I have no bond with Damien. It is beginning to feel more like an obligation and duty to him but no bond. I should be there to give Obi-Wan his medicine and rub his back until he fell asleep. //
Jinn had begun to feel more and more manipulated by his mother and Damien. It was just feeling but it was there and strongly there.
Master Riddon had described massaging Obi-Wan's back until he was able to fall in a restless sleep very early this morning. Riddon sat on the edge of Obi-Wan's bed as he spoke to Jinn, fearing to leave the boy in case he awoke suddenly. The kindly old master didn't want the child to be alone for a second.
The big Jedi master's mind was made up as he walked out of his makeshift office/den. He would leave immediately back to the temple. He hadn't decided whether he would stay there or bring the boy back to the farm. He imagined it would be decided once he knew what the healer thought would be best for him to do with Obi-Wan. When it came down to it that's the only thing in Jinn's mind right now. His brother would just have to forgive him for overlooking his son for Qui-Gon's very life-line, his *imp*.
Qui could here his nephew in the kitchen with Myra whispering about something. He stood just around the corner intentionally eavesdropping because he not only heard the mention of his name but also Obi's.
"You had the right idea Grandmother. That day Uncle Qui came home from his mission and I flew into his arms, cinched it for us."
"Yes, well don't gloat too much Damien and don't be telling Bruck everything. If that child of Qui's would get over that sickness, if its not made up, then your chances, our chances of remaining here would be a lot better. I am hoping that stubborn son of mine sees that this is the best place for you and he and that any common master can train that inept *Jedi* child of his. His problems stem from not even being able to keep his shields down, yet the masters at the temple rant about how great a potential he is. I heard it daily from them."
"Grandmother you are right about one thing it will be nice to be home and have Obi-Wan out of hair all at the same time."
Just then Qui-Gon walked into the kitchen where Damien and his mother stood.
"I just came in to let you know I have to go back and see about Obi-Wan today. He is still not feeling well."
It took all that was in the Jedi master to stay calm and reserve. He didn't want his little family to know he had heard them conspiring against he and his son.
"That's shame. Are you sure the child is not faking it to get added attention; to accomplish what he just has, your return to the temple?"
Had either of them taken the time to notice, they would have seen Master Jinn clenching and unclenching his fists to control his feelings.
"No mother, I don't think the child is putting on a pretentious illness for the sake of getting me home. A healer saw him this morning and concurred the same sentiments. Obi-Wan is indeed ill."
Jinn turned to go. He wanted time to think about what he heard and decide his course of actions much like Damien and Myra had decided theirs.
"But Qui-Gon what about Bruck?"
"Yes, I did forget that didn't I? He will go back with me.'
Damien sat down at the counter and pouted.
"I hope you let him come back with you."
" Qui, that's another thing. When did you say you would be returning?"
Myra looked deep into her son's eyes and saw an unsettling *dark* look penetrate the master's normally twinkling-blue eyes.
"I don't think I said with any certainty that I would return…"
Qui-Gon had been traveling for over an hour when he heard his comm buzz with a call for him.
"Master Jinn I am so glad I could reach you. Your mother told me that you had already left to return here."
Qui-Gon could here a touch of urgency in the voice of the older master and his first thought was that Obi-Wan had become worse.
"Is Obi-Wan worse? Is there something wrong Master Riddon?"
"Yes there is but it has nothing to do is to Obi-Wan's medical condition. I would have no way of knowing how bad he is feeling right now. Jinn, I hate to be the one to tell you this but Obi-Wan is missing. He wanted to sit by the lake and feed his ducks. I took him out there and tucked a warm blanket around him. I returned not ten minutes later with a hot cup of chocolate and the child was gone. I know he is not in the lake. Besides Obi is an excellent swimmer. I found his blanket about fifty feet away. I am afraid this disappearerance has something to do with Dooku being here earlier."
Qui-Gon Jinn could not believe he heard what he just did, //*DOOKU*//
"Dooku when was he there? He was not to have access to the temple."
"I know that and so do the guards. He was stopped by the gate. I went out and talked to him. I explained he was not allowed in and that if he wished to have any contact with Obi-Wan he was to talk with you, solely with you were my exact words. He took it quite well and left. Well I thought he did and I thought no more of it. I mean I know the man is stubborn but to go against the order."
"There's nothing I would past that man to get Obi-Wan. I will be there in less than an hour. See if you can find any clues as to which way they went."
"I'll do that Qui-Gon. I feel so badly at letting your son be kidnapped after you put your faith in me to see to it he was taken care of."
"No Master Riddon, blaming yourself will help nothing. Dooku set out to do this and I think no matter where Obi-Wan was he would have gotten his hands on him."
"Very well Master Jinn. I will do what I can at this end. It is too bad that Obi-Wan experienced so much difficulty in controlling his shields. Your mental link would come in very helpful right now."
"Yes had I stayed and worked on it with him, things might right now be different."
Quilt overwhelmed the master as he sped up to get to his temple to find his son.
By the time Jinn reached the temple the entire grounds had been searched with no clue as to which way Dooku left when he took the child. The guards still roamed the grounds, although they held out little hope of finding Obi-Wan or even a clue to his whereabouts. Dooku had been quite thorough in covering his tracks to keep from being followed. Not one little clue or an extra broken branch around the temple could be found. Dooku was gone with Qui-Gon Jinn's son.
Qui-Gon dropped to his knees on the cold hard ground of the temple and meditated right there even before entering the temple. If only he could be given a reprieve from this nightmare he thought, things would be different.
//No one would have come before Obi-Wan. I would have, should have never left the child when I knew of possible dangers from Dooku and possibly the dark lord himself. This is all l my fault and I am not sure I will be able to correct it. I need to find Obi-Wan before Dooku takes him off planet to *sith* knows where. //
Jinn aided by the force reached out through the shared bond and tried to contact the child. He did it so many times that Master Riddon finally had to insist the master go in to the warmth of the temple and talk things over with Master Yoda. Qui-Gon got up and straightened his legs to relieve some of the stiffness from the cold and kneeling too long. He hoped that Obi at least felt a nudge against his shields and that he would attempt to lower them so that Jinn could locate him. Jinn continually tested the tendril of their bond to make sure Obi-Wan hadn't inadvertently dropped his shields. Qui-Gon didn't want an opportunity to locate the boy through their bond to go by him.
Master Yoda dispatched a group of knights and masters to aid in the search for Master's Jinn's son as soon as he got the news of the child's's kidnapping. He knew the temple where Qui-Gon dwelled was practically empty because of the spring break that had just begun..
Jinn paced the floor of the temple and wrung his hands. Right now he did not feel like the powerful Jedi Master that Obi-Wan always referred to him as. He felt as helpless as a kitten. He had fought sith, battled an entire Huttnese army and been plummeted by many numerous alien life forms but the seeking out of one little boy taken by his grandfather brought the big man to his knees. Not with fear for he had none for himself. He was at a loss as to how to find his son, without their mental connection.
He was just about to complete his twentieth walk through the temple when something nudged at his mind. A voice, yes that was it. A very faint voice of who he hoped was Obi-Wan. The voice was too faint to make out whoit was or what was said.
Jinn stopped in the middle of his walk and waited. It was as if he took another step the fleeting voice would be nonexistent or disappear just as quickly as it came.
Another group of words, a tiny bit louder but still not recognizable were the words or who was saying them. It had to be Obi-Wan but why wasn't he coming in clearer?
Fear gripped the master. What if Dooku had already taken him into space. That would make their link weaker, especially with a little one like Obi unable to control it
Qui-Gon could at least release a little of his anxiety because he knew Obi-Wan was still alive. Though the master never really thought the intent to kidnap Obi-Wan was to kill him. He knew deep down Obi was wanted for his powers of the force to work some kind of evil once trained in ways of the dark side.
Just as Master Jinn was going over in his mind what would cause the voice to be so weak if Obi-Wan was not yet off planet, the boy's mental connection came in much clearer than before.
//Master, Dad, please come and get me. I'm cold, scared, and don't feel so good!!! I want to go home. //
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Thank You for the feedback and the tips on writing. I appreciate both, esp. when done with such kindness!!
PEACE ewen