I don't own Jedi Apprentice. *pout*
"I pledge myself to you, Tahl."
"I pledge myself to you, Qui-Gon."
It had gone beyond friendship. It was love. Everything was different now. His strong hands holding hers where the only physical contact she had with him, and she wanted to never let him go.
After what felt like an eternity they left the room. It was then she remembered Obi-Wan's feelings. Tahl felt a twinge of guilt; like she had betrayed him by loving his master.
That would have to be settled later; when this mission was over and they had the time.
---
Qui-Gon carried her in his arms. She was half conscious, but kept her head pressed against his chest to feel the warmth of his skin and the beat of his heart.
She knew Obi-Wan was staring, full of concern, heart torn between love and duty. She wished she could talk to him to soothe his nerves, but she could barely move. And whatever words she wanted to say where for Qui-Gon, she realized.
---
She was lying in a bed at a medcenter. She felt her strength fading faster than ever. The medic could, too. But he gave up hope far after her. While he still tried to help her she found herself screaming wildly in her mind, "Send Qui-Gon in! Before it's too late! Send Obi-Wan!"
At long last the med team stepped away from her, put down their instruments, and left the room. A short while later Qui-Gon came. Just Qui-Gon. But knowing how close to death she was she didn't mind. She had to tell him final words no one else could hear.
With her last breath she thought of Obi-Wan. She couldn't help him; the one who had loved her unconditionally longer than her best friend.
Short chapter, but the next one is shorter, and also the final chapter. Reviews would be awesome.