A/N: Hello, everyone. I apologize for the delay. I got stuck creatively and then I wasn't around my sister's computer for a while and then I got sick and...well, you know how real life is.

I want to say once again that you may find some of what happens in this story as out of character. That's because this is pretty much my own alternate universe and I do what I want. But it's not like the characters are doing a complete about-face. The Jedi Order is different, so the way Obi-Wan approaches a few things is also bound to be different. Some things regarding the Force will be referenced heavily in upcoming chapters. I've kind of put my own take on it because I've only read one Star Wars book and that was the adaptation of Revenge of the Sith. So again...my universe, my rules. I'm sorry if this annoys anyone, but I need things a certain way for my story.

Disclaimer: I do not own the Star Wars universe. Just this little skewed version in my mind. Thank you to George Lucas for creating the characters and the universe and for also allowing all of us to play with it. I also do not own the character of Usaki, who is mentioned in this chapter. But I do own Corana Lin, who is also mentioned.

Strengthening Bonds: Chapter 3

As they prepared to land near the palace, Obi-Wan had to shield himself from the waves of unadulterated excitement that were rolling off Anakin in an almost violent manner. Glancing at Qui-Gon, he could tell that his former master was also being assaulted by the young boy's unchecked energy. Probably even moreso, since the two of them shared a training bond. But Qui-Gon said nothing to Anakin about trying to rein his emotions in even just a little.

Obi-Wan certainly understood Anakin's feelings. Truthfully, he was just as excited to be seeing Padme again. But Anakin, apparently, didn't yet understand that his thoughts and emotions could easily affect those around him. And while happiness was certainly something that wasn't a horrible thing to be shared with everyone, what would happen if Anakin experienced something truly awful and still didn't understand how his feelings could affect people?

For what Obi-Wan was sure had to be the hundredth time during the last week, he held his tongue and said nothing about this basic lesson to Anakin. The boy was still young, after all, and his transgressions over the last few days had not been deliberate. Rather, he just seemed to suffer from somewhat unfortunate decision making skills. That is to say, Anakin didn't give much thought to anything before going right ahead with it. Many padawans, Obi-Wan included, suffered from the same problem.

'Many padawans are also chastised for it by their masters'

Obi-Wan ignored the thought that floated through his head. He was not Anakin's master and, as a relatively new Knight, it certainly wasn't his place to try teaching him anything. If Qui-Gon felt that matters were well in hand, then his word was final. Privately, Obi-Wan thought Anakin could benefit from the same arrangement that Master Windu had with Master Lin. Although it was unusual, they shared the task of training his friend Usaki. It was an arrangement Usaki benefited from immensely, but Obi-Wan had the feeling that Qui-Gon would not be open to such a thing regarding Anakin.

"ANI!"

Both Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan winced at the sound of Jar-Jar's voice, which had accomplished the task of piercing through the metal of the ship. The Gungan had spotted Anakin peering through one of the windows. Obi-Wan joined Anakin and wasn't surprised to see Padme standing not too far away from their Gungan friend. What did surprise him was that she was not waiting to greet them as a queen. He knew instantly that Sabe was the one in the deep purple gown and elaborate headdress as Queen Amidala. Padme stood a little ways from her, flanked by Eirtae and Yane, her features well hidden by the hood of her simple light grey gown.

Closing his eyes for only a moment, he was stunned by the change of her presence in the Force. Padme's Force signature had always reminded him somewhat of Siri's. Vibrant and intense, a reflection of the passion she felt for her planet and her people. Now he sensed only turmoil and despair. The emotions she was giving off were staggeringly negative and Obi-Wan shook his head as he opened his eyes, disturbed beyond measure that someone so young would carry such burdens.

His gaze locked with Qui-Gon's for a moment and Obi-Wan felt an achingly familiar tug through what was left of their bond. In mere seconds, he understood that Qui-Gon knew he was here to help Padme. And that his former master was also concerned by what he had sensed in the Force. Obi-Wan found himself longing to ask Qui-Gon's advice. He restrained his feelings, though, and allowed the impulse to pass. If he truly had trouble regarding Padme, perhaps he'd talk to Qui-Gon then.

As they left the ship, he was surprised to see Anakin race straight for Sabe. And he didn't miss the slight frown that crossed Qui-Gon's features. The young padawan was allowing his emotions to rule him, clouding the perception that should have enabled the boy to see where Padme truly was almost immediately, in spite of the hood that hid her face so well. Qui-Gon opened his mouth and Obi-Wan wondered if Anakin would be admonished for the mistake.

"Anakin. Come here and let us greet our hostess properly."

Obi-Wan arched a brow at first, but he saw the scarlet flame sweep across Anakin's face and understood in an instant. Ani was embarrassed enough over being called out for a breach of etiquette in front of everyone. To admonish him for lack of a basic Jedi skill would be even worse in the boy's eyes. Somehow, Obi-Wan had no doubt that Qui-Gon would point out the mistake when he was alone with his apprentice. For the first time, he was starting to see how fine a line Qui-Gon had to walk with Anakin.

With Anakin by his side, Qui-Gon bowed in greeting to the queen. Obi-Wan followed suit, pausing only for a moment to glance towards Padme. If Sabe was surprised that he knew where the true queen was, she didn't show it. Instead, she smiled and stepped forward.

"There is no need for such formalities among friends. Ani, it is so very good to see you," she held her arms open as she spoke and Anakin didn't hesitate. He hugged her as well as he could, considering the bulk of the gown she wore. In spite of the fact that it wasn't truly Padme, Obi-Wan knew the sentiment was sincere. Sabe adored Anakin just as much as the queen did.

Looking up from Anakin's beaming face, Sabe held her hand out in greeting to Qui-Gon, who took it in his own and bowed slightly.

"You look very well, Master Qui-Gon," her eyes shone with relief and affection as she spoke.

"Ani keeps me active," he replied with a rare grin. It faded slightly as he spoke his next words. "I…don't know how I can ever thank you."

"You're here to visit with us," she interrupted him as she gave his hand a slight squeeze before letting it go. "Not as long as we'd like, but just seeing all of you again is thanks enough. And what we were able to do for you was nothing compared to what you did for us."

She held both hands out to Obi-Wan, who didn't hesitate in taking them. He was very fond of Sabe. They had spoken quite a bit during his time on Naboo and nearly all of Padme's epistles contained news of Sabe as well. He hadn't intended to draw her to him, but when he saw her mask drop for just a moment, saw the worry and the sorrow in her eyes, he smoothly pulled her in for a friendly hug. It lasted only a moment, but it was long enough for her to convey her relief.

"I'm so very glad to see you again," she whispered, her tone implying that he would never know just how glad she truly was. They released each other and stepped apart. The mask of queen was firmly fixed upon her face again and she turned her attention back to Anakin, who had a small frown on his face.

"Ani, I'm terribly sorry, but I've had to call a special meeting of my council. I must get to the throne room quickly. I've set aside a few hours tonight just for you after supper, though. I can't wait to hear all about your Jedi training. And tomorrow, I managed to arrange it so all of us would have the entire day together. No meetings, no duties. We'll be going on a small trip of sorts. Would you like that?"

Anakin was obviously not all that thrilled at the news of the separation, but Obi-Wan was glad to see that he was making every effort not to show it, however unsuccessful his efforts might be. Sabe smiled, clearly seeing the disappointment in the boy's face.

"In the meantime, I've arranged for Yane to take you and Master Qui-Gon to your quarters. Then, if you like, she can take you to see the new kittens that have just arrived."

Anakin made no attempt to hide his approval of that idea. Obi-Wan couldn't stop his grin as he saw Ani's excitement, not to mention Qui-Gon's discomfort. Ani was sure to want one and Padme would no doubt be willing to give him one. Qui-Gon, however, just didn't seem to get along with cats. Or, rather, cats didn't get along with him. As Obi-Wan had discovered when he'd brought a stray home to their quarters in the Jedi Temple. The cat was around for about a day before Obi-Wan wound up giving him to Mace, whom Pouncer (Mace's choice for a name) still absolutely adored. Much to Qui-Gon's disgust.

"Do they like living in the palace?" Anakin inquired of Yane, who had come forward to be their escort. It was a thinly veiled attempt to feel out the possibility of taking one home to Coruscant and Obi-Wan barely managed to disguise his laugh with a cough. A task made all the more difficult when Qui-Gon shot him a glare.

"I think they like it here very much," Yane replied. "But perhaps there is one who would like to see new places, too." She caught Qui-Gon's eye. "Let's not worry about that until the time comes, though, alright?"

Obi-Wan looked toward Padme, relieved to feel the small amount of joy surrounding her. At least she was finding amusement in the little scene.

"Sabe will take you to your quarters, Obi-Wan," the queen told him. "You'll be in a different wing of the palace, closer to the gardens. I know how you loved those when you were last here."

"Why can't we be closer to Obi-Wan?" the youngest of the Jedi wanted to know. There were times when he felt a little jealous of Obi-Wan. However, Anakin actually did love his master's former apprentice very much and had enjoyed spending the last few days on the mission with him. Out of necessity, they'd been quartered right next to one another and Anakin wasn't too keen on the idea of being separated from him before they got back to Coruscant.

"He won't be that far, Ani," the queen assured him. "But I thought you'd like a room closer to the kitchen. I seem to remember you spending a lot of time there a year ago."

Yes, Anakin had liked spending time in the various rooms that made up the palace kitchen. He had even helped the cook out and, being of a rather outgoing nature, quickly made friends with all the staff. Mollified by the reasoning, Anakin nodded. Obi-Wan couldn't help but be impressed with how it had all been so easily explained. The wing closest to the gardens was also the wing which housed Padme's personal quarters. He didn't know if Panaka, Sabe, or Padme had engineered all the particulars, but he was very glad that they had done so.

As Yane led Qui-Gon and Anakin away, Obi-Wan began to focus his attention more fully on Padme. He spared a reassuring glance towards Sabe as she left and she gave him a shaky smile. Although he was watching his friend, Padme would not turn directly towards him. Instead, she watched Sabe and the others leave. Only when they were completely alone did she finally turn her head. Obi-Wan started to speak, but found himself speechless as she drew back the hood that had been hiding her face.

She was…so very pale. Obi-Wan could almost swear he could see through her skin. And even though he couldn't really make out her form in the loose-fitting handmaiden gown, he could easily see that she had lost weight simply by looking at her face. Her eyes, however, were what absolutely terrified him. He could see affection in them, but beyond that they were listless. Empty.

In a swift but gentle motion, he stepped closer and put his arms around her. She tensed only for a moment and then, as he had known she would, began to cry. Knowing they should not continue the tableau in a relatively public place, Obi-Wan felt no compunction whatsoever about using the Force to calm her long enough for the two of them to seek out a more private setting. He still wasn't sure exactly how he would handle this, but as he led her towards their destination, he began to formulate a plan in his mind. Hopefully, it wouldn't backfire on him.

Padme's garden was a place where she usually found comfort and peace, away from the duties and demands of royal life. There were a few fountains, none of them overly large, placed throughout the grounds. The flowers, varied in colors and shades, all possessed a delicate aroma. Padme hated what she called 'obnoxious flowers' that overwhelmed the senses. No one but she and her handmaidens were allowed in. They tended the grounds themselves, finding joy in such a relatively mundane task.

Because it was such a peaceful place, she had extended an invitation to Obi-Wan after the Battle of Naboo to come here. He had taken her up on it, making use of the serene atmosphere three or four times before returning to Coruscant once Qui-Gon had recovered well enough to travel. And now he had led them both here. Between his presence and the calming surroundings, Padme began to gather herself together once more. Obi-Wan couldn't help her if she was hysterical, after all. Of course, only Padme thought she was anywhere close to hysteria.

They sat by the edge of the largest fountain, a delicate-looking structure made of pale grey stone. Although they were facing each other, Obi-Wan kept Padme's hand in his and she found herself glad of the contact. She waited for him to say something, but he remained silent. The minutes ticked by until, finally, Padme couldn't stand it any longer.

"What do you think?" she prodded him.

"What do I think of what?" came the maddening response. Padme resisted the urge to glare, although she couldn't suppress the sigh.

"What should I do, Obi-Wan?"

He regarded her thoughtfully for a while, leading her to wonder if she would have to be the one to break the silence once more. But she held her tongue and tried to be patient.

"I'm not going to tell you what to do, Padme."

She couldn't have been more stunned if he had announced his decision to leave the Jedi Order.

"I don't want you to tell me what to do," she protested. "I want your advice."

Obi-Wan shook his head and Padme felt anger begin to rise up in her before he even spoke again.

"No. I think right now, in this moment, you want me to tell you what to do. Perhaps you wanted advice when you wrote to me. But now that I'm here…what you want is something I simply can't do."

She withdrew her hand from his, furious with his statement even as she saw the truth in it. She refused to admit he was right, however.

"Can't? Or won't?"

"You're right," he nodded. "I misspoke. I could tell you what to do. I could very easily sit here and tell you just exactly what you should do with your life. But I won't."

Padme scowled at Obi-Wan now and, in her anger, lashed out at him.

"Then why did you even come here? Why write to me and promise you would help if you had no intention of doing so once you arrived? You mentioned in your message that you had talked to Siri about me. Was it her idea to get my hopes up on false pretenses? Did both of you have fun planning to crush my feelings into the ground?"

That was going too far and Padme regretted the words the moment she said them. A flicker of hurt crossed over Obi-Wan's face, but beyond that he remained stoic as her voice rose in volume. She knew she was behaving shamefully, no better than a spoiled child who wasn't getting her way.

'Not to mention how incredibly overdramatic I sound,' she thought. 'Why not just say that he's breaking my heart while I'm at it?'

"I'm…" she stumbled over her words. "Obi-Wan, I'm so sorry. I don't know what came over me."

Padme bowed her head, unable to bear looking her friend in the eyes any longer. In spite of the fact that she had just insulted both him and the woman he loved, she knew those eyes held no anger or judgment. She felt incredibly unworthy of his friendship in that moment, knowing how her words must have hurt him.

"Give me your hands," he said suddenly, holding both of his out to her with the palms up. She looked up again and blinked and stared at him as though he'd gone crazy.

"I…what?"

"Give me your hands," he repeated, adding "and close your eyes."

Feeling wary all of a sudden, she slowly slid her own hands into his. As if he could sense her nervousness, he smiled at her reassuringly. It only made her feel a little better, but it was enough for Padme to follow his second request. Once her eyes were closed, he began to speak again.

"I'm going to say a few things and you might not like all of them. But I want you to promise me that you'll keep your hands in mine and stay exactly as you are right now. And don't interrupt me. Do you promise?"

Padme wasn't too thrilled with the proposal of having to sit and listen to things she didn't want to hear. She had to do enough of that during council meetings. Had it been anyone but Obi-Wan asking it of her, she would've refused. It was Obi-Wan, though. So after a moment's hesitation, she nodded her acquiescence.

"Padme…"

"I promise," she spoke the words aloud, knowing that was what he wanted to hear.

"Thank you. Now let me tell you what I think. I think that you are allowing this guilt to consume you. You're an exceptionally strong young woman, Padme, and I have a hard time believing that anything could bring you to your knees unless you've let it take control of you. Press your lips together in that line all you like, but you know deep down that it's true."

True to her promise, Padme didn't move. No matter how much she didn't want to acknowledge that Obi-Wan had a very good point, she knew it was true on some level. Nevertheless, she had an angry retort just waiting to spring out of her mouth and pressing her lips together seemed to be the best way to keep from saying something she would regret. Obi-Wan continued on.

"I'm just postulating, of course, but you haven't talked to anyone about exactly why I'm here to see you. Have you?"

Postulating? Dimly, she wondered if he was trying to amuse her by using a word which was rarely found in day to day conversation. Hesitating just a little, she shook her head. Although she wasn't positive, she thought she heard him sigh.

"This is very important, Padme. Do you remember when you found me meditating here? A few days after we spoke in the hospital?"

She fought the urge to look at him as she responded with a nod. Remember it? It was one of her fondest memories. The Force was something she had always heard about, but she had never imagined being able to see the things she had seen that day. The sensations as Obi-Wan had taken her hands and guided her through his own meditation were like nothing she had ever experienced. She had seen a room in the Jedi Temple, a room which Obi-Wan had informed her belonged to Master Corana Lin. It was where he had first truly connected with the Force and he had explained that, in his meditations, he often returned to that place in his mind.

But it was more than just sight. Padme had felt so incredibly safe in those few moments. Not because she was with Obi-Wan, but simply…because. She couldn't explain it, even now. The entire experience had simultaneously given her both a rush of emotions and a sense of complete serenity.

Obi-Wan was speaking again.

"I'm glad you remember. Because you're going to do that again. But this time, it will be your own meditation."

"I don't see how that will help," she stated, being very careful with her tone to make sure he didn't think she was trying to be insulting. "Didn't you say you spent years learning how to do that?"

He sighed again and Padme felt a twinge of guilt. But she truly didn't understand how such a thing would help her. They didn't have time for her to learn how to do it. Then he asked a question of her that she hadn't expected.

"Padme, do you trust me?"

She didn't even have to think before she answered.

"With my life."

She had the feeling her answer surprised him a little. No small wonder, given the way she'd been acting the last few minutes. His hands tightened around hers for a brief moment and she smiled slightly.

"Alright," he continued. "Now, I know you're a little confused. So I'll explain this as well as I can. You're Force sensitive, Padme. Did you know that?"

Padme nodded.

"I was tested when I was a baby. They said I didn't have the potential to be a Jedi, though."

There was a slight hesitation before he spoke again, which confused her a little. But he went on to explain what they were doing.

"What we're about to do will not be exactly the same as what younglings are taught while training to be a Jedi. Jedi have to be able to allow the Force to flow through them. They need to be able to feel every nuance, every shift in their surroundings. What I'm going to teach you is much more basic. You need to find your own way, Padme. And I think that if you can connect to the Force even on the simplest level, you'll be able to answer your own questions."

"I don't understand…" she whispered, her tone just a little desperate. Giving punctuation to her emotions, she finally gave in to the urge to open her eyes. She wanted to understand. Words couldn't begin to describe how much she wanted to understand. What Obi-Wan was talking about, though, seemed so very foreign to her.

He met her gaze and tears pricked her eyes when she saw the concern and warm affection in his own. Although she tried to fight them, frustrated beyond all reason with her emotions at this point, a few tears escaped anyway. Releasing her hands, Obi-Wan leaned towards her just a little. Placing both of his hands on either side of her face, he wiped the tears off with his thumbs and then gave her a gentle smile.

"You will," he whispered back, his voice conveying full confidence in the promise he was making. She felt a wave of warmth sweep through her, a feeling she had come to recognize. It was a feeling she had only gotten around Obi-Wan, always when she was unsure of herself or concerned about something. After that day in the garden, she had realized it was something like a physical manifestation of what he felt for her, the affection he had for her that he sent out through the Force. Whether he realized he was doing it or not, she didn't know. She had never asked.

After a moment, he took her hands and smiled at her once again, this time with a sly wink that brought a smile to her own face.

"Now, will you let me help you?" he asked.

"Yes," she responded, closing her eyes without any prompting.

"Good. Listen to me carefully. I want you to relax and think of…a place that holds your happiest memories. Somewhere you feel safe."

Frowning just a little, Padme tried to do as he said. It was more difficult than even she had thought and it wasn't long before she felt frustrated. Obi-Wan spoke again, his voice soft and calm as he gave her instructions. Listening as he talked her through it, she slowly began to empty her mind of all the fears and guilt that had been haunting her for so long. She still wasn't sure how this was going to help her. But Obi-Wan believed it would and there were few people she trusted more than him.

TBC