A/N: A call to love and war. As Lyri and Obi-Wan begin to settle into a routine at the Temple, their hearts move closer, though Lyri becomes a little shy as she tries to assimilate the information Bant has imparted. Obi-Wan, on the other hand, makes peace with his feelings and begins to let them grow after a surprising revelation from Yoda. Before Obi-Wan has a chance to help Lyri past her shyness, however, he is called away again to help in the ongoing battle to save the Republic.
Disclaimer: All Star Wars characters, arcs, and locations belong to George Lucas and Disney, with the exception of my originals. No money is being made; just for entertainment. Just drifting through the galaxy for awhile.
Feral Moon: Coruscant
Chapter 2
Rising early so he could get in a workout of advanced katas and have time to meditate and clean up before the Council meeting, Obi-Wan moved off the bed carefully so he wouldn't awaken Lyri. He felt she needed the extra rest to help her recover from the lingering illness. Quietly getting dressed, he paused for a moment just to regard Lyri as she slept. She made a small sound and sighed softly as she shifted slightly and he found himself wondering what she might be dreaming about.
His opinion of dreams had changed in the last few years. He had used to adhere to the tenets that dreams passed in time and were of no consequence or that Jedi didn't dream in the real sense; their dreams were only to enlighten them to their inner workings in regards to the Force. That was only partially true. After what had happened with Anakin's mother and a couple of vivid dreams of his own, he no longer thought this to be absolutely true. Dreams could very well be precognitive. Sometimes pleasant, but sometimes not. He would always regret what had happened to Anakin's mother. There was still a small rift between Anakin and himself because he hadn't heeded Anakin's dreams. A small part of Anakin still blamed him for not getting to his mother in time. What Anakin didn't know, was that he also blamed himself.
He hoped Lyri dreamed of peaceful and happy things. As she sighed softly again he felt a little tug on his heart and desire and wondered what it would be like to wake up to such beauty and warmth next to him every morning. He supposed that was another kind of dream. Blinking, he made himself turn away from such seemingly unlikely thoughts for a Jedi and focus on the day ahead. He would at least like to have first-meal with Lyri, if possible, before going on with the tasks of the day. He left a simple message he thought she could read on a datapad and put it where she would find it easily when she awakened.
As he was headed to meditate an hour later, he was feeling rather pleased that he hadn't become too rusty with his moves while he'd been gone. He hadn't the realization that even his rusty moves would have been devastating to most opponents. It was his nature to remain humble and just do his best.
As he was headed to one of the rooms on the upper levels that had particularly lovely warm light diffused by artistic beveled windows and was one of his favorite meditation spots this time of day, he happened to overhear a couple of young padawans talking in an alcove. "Well, yes," one of them said, "she is beautiful; I'd go out with her in a heartbeat!" The next sentence halted him in his tracks before he had reached the alcove. The other padawan chimed in, saying, "Oh did you see all that gorgeous dark gold hair; it's clear down to her waist. You know, I don't think I've ever seen anyone wearing animal hide clothing and making it look as good as that! She fills it out in just the right places. Especially her cute little…."
"Do you young padawans have nothing better to do than to be jabbering on in such unseemly terms about a lady? Perhaps I should find something suitable to fill your time. Something that instills discipline. I believe the tiles in the grand hallway need cleaning and I have a couple of shoe brushes with which you can accomplish that. I will be happy to tell your masters why you are skipping first-meal." He was wearing one of his most severe masterly expressions. His eyes had turned a steely blue and seemed to burn right into them. "You may also want to give those tunics a good pressing while you are at it. It is more important than ever that we represent professionalism in the Order."
Both young men seemed tongue-tied for a moment and then both began stuttering apologies at the same time and begging him not to talk to their respective masters. One of them paled and the other started blushing deeply. They promised him never to do anything of the sort again and to keep their thoughts on becoming better representatives of the Order. He let them stew for another few minutes before saying, "Very well, but I shall keep those brushes at the ready and...do go press those tunics and give those boots a shine, hmmm?"
"Yes, Master Kenobi, right away. Thank you!" said one of them. The other opened his mouth, but nothing came out. His companion elbowed him in the ribs causing him to stutter out, "Th-thank you, M-Master Kenobi." They bowed and practically tripped over each other trying to hurry away. When they had rounded the corner, Obi-Wan had calmed and let out a soft chuckle. "I guess Bant was right," he thought, "I shall have to keep a closer eye on Lyri. Perhaps I can solicit some help to make certain she is watched over when I am not able to do so."
Coming out of his meditation, Obi-Wan stretched to loosen his muscles and enjoyed the peace that had settled in him. Glancing up at the play of light dancing off the beveled glass, he smiled to himself as his thoughts drifted to Lyri soft in sleep in his large bed, her lovely hair spilling across the pillow. The image filled him with a warmth he couldn't explain.
Thinking about her now, he realized he'd better go shower and take her for first-meal. They hadn't eaten much the previous day and they both had busy days ahead. As he was headed toward his apartment, he heard several voices and rounded the corner to a small crowd of padawans in front of his apartment. He caught a few snatches of the excited conversation. Though there were a couple of females in the group, the males seemed to be vying for attention.
"Oh, you know, I can walk you out next time you need to go."
"Yes, it's a big place. I'd be happy to give you a tour."
"Oh, no Lyri, don't worry about that, we can understand you just fine."
All males. Then a female voice. "You'll like Professor Tova's tutor. He's dreamy."
Alright, time to put a stop to this. He stood with his arms crossed over his chest and adjusted his expression into a stern masterly stare, thinking this was the second time he'd had to do this and it wasn't even noon yet. "Are there not classes or kata practices you should be attending to young padawans? I do not seem to recall so much time to loiter in the hallway during my own training." He heard a collective intake of breath.
"I take Tika out and get lost, Obi-Wan. They just help me find home," Lyri said sweetly.
"And that is very kind of them, Lyri. I am sure, however, that they now have things to attend to and must be on their way."
"Yes, Master Kenobi," they mumbled as they bowed. He then softened his expression slightly saying, "I do thank you for your kindness, young ones."
"You're welcome, Master Kenobi," they said and hurried away, with the exception of one female who stood looking at him with a slightly dazed expression. He looked at her and raised his eyebrows. Blushing, she said, "You're welcome, Master," and hurried away. "Oh dear, another infatuation," he thought ruefully. 'What in the galaxy could they find to be that infatuated with? He could understand it with Anakin, but with him?" He shook his head.
"Well, little one, I am glad you got home safely, but please tell me when you are going to leave after this. I can always find someone to accompany you if I cannot."
"How I tell you, Obi? Tika have to go out. You gone."
"Hmmm. Yes, I should have set you up with a comlink and taught you how to use it. I shall do that today when I finish up with the Council and whatever tasks they have for me. You really should be able to reach me whenever you need to." He didn't add that it would help him keep an eye on her as well.
"I need to shower, sweetheart, then we can go for first-meal at the cafeteria, if you like, or we can have something here. Whatever you wish. Then I am going to drop you off with Bant while I go about my work. Erm...I was thinking, if you are not too tired this evening, would you like to go out for a treat? I have a friend in CoCo Town who owns a diner. We can have dinner there, if you like."
She clapped her hands and bounced in place, excitedly. "Oh, yes Obi! I like that very much!"
He loved her childlike enthusiasm for new experiences and he was determined that this one would be with him. "Very well, sweetheart. I believe we had better get a start on our day, then."
When Obi-Wan had showered and changed, he and Lyri headed to the cafeteria. Spying Bant sitting in the corner, Obi-Wan asked if she minded them joining her. She seemed to brighten at this and was pleased to have them. Lyri immediately went to her and hugged her. The healer hugged the young woman back tightly. So open with her affection thought Obi-Wan; she was very much like Anakin in that regard. The Jedi weren't encouraged to display such affection but Anakin had never stopped being who he was. Lyri wasn't a Jedi and didn't have to follow their tenets. He noticed his old friend seemed to embrace Lyri's affection and derive comfort from it. His Lyri was a very special young woman, the way she touched people and seemed to know instinctively when they needed encouragement. His thoughts suddenly stuttered to a halt. Why was he thinking of her as his Lyri? Oh dear. Forcefully redirecting his thoughts, he looked at Bant and asked what the specialty was for the morning.
There were a few choices and Lyri was having a hard time deciding until she saw the pancakes. "Oh," she said excitedly. "I not have those since little! I help Mama make them sometime." Obi-Wan smiled down at her. "Then that is what you shall have, my dear. Though I daresay they most likely will not be as good yours." That brought a big smile from Lyri and warmed his heart.
After breakfast, it was decided Lyri would just leave with Bant and Obi-Wan would go on to the Council chamber. Wishing Bant a good day, he glanced at his chrono and left with a wink. Shaking her head, Bant looked at Lyri and said, "Come on, sweetie. We need to do our morning rounds in the Infirmary and then I need to have a little visit with you, alright?"
"Okay. We just need get Tika from apartment, Bant," Lyri said with a smile.
Bant nodded and wondered at Lyri's sweetness and giving nature with everything she had been through. What an amazing young woman! No wonder Obi was so fond of her. "Good morning, Tika," she said, smiling at the large canine. To her surprise, the animal looked at her and emitted a soft "woof" and wagged her tail. Turning to Lyri, Bant said, "Oh goodness, I keep forgetting what an amazing animal she is." Her eyes grew rounder as the animal grinned at her.
"Okay, first we'll do our rounds, Lyri," the healer said as she checked them in at the desk. They gave Lyri a badge somewhat similar to Bant's to identify her as a volunteer worker. She fingered it and looked up, smiling proudly. This meant she could help.
"We keep a lot of the minor injuries, most of the illnesses and patients that are quite a bit further on their way to recovery in this wing, along with the younglings' wards to the far side of the examining rooms. You saw a portion of that area yesterday. Lyri listened intently.
Their first stop was to visit the war and fight injuries that had recovered enough to be sent to this wing. All the rooms were full and a few had an extra bed squeezed in. Lyri looked at Bant with concern. "They are so many, Bant."
"Yes, Lyri. The war has not been kind to the Jedi. We have already lost so many."
Looking at the patients in the room they were entering, then back at Bant with a sadness in her eyes, she said, "War not kind to anyone," Reaching out to touch her cheek, Bant murmured, "There are no truer words, sweetie. Is this going to be too hard for you?"
"No Bant. I try to help how I can."
"I had a feeling you'd say that." Bant thought how wondrous the Force was, that Obi-Wan should crash on some backwater world and find this beautiful little soul. Following in his old master's footsteps for sure. The thought brought a smile. She hadn't liked Qui-Gon's treatment of Obi-Wan shortly before Naboo, but on the whole, she'd admired the man.
As they were entering the room, Tika suddenly brushed by them and laid her head on one patient's legs. He reached out tentatively and ran his hand over the soft chocolate fur. Bant froze for a moment, but Lyri told her, "No be afraid Bant. Tika know he need her." She watched as the young man, who had been so despondent at the loss of his master even the mind healers were having difficulties with him, looked into the large amber eyes of the canine and let the ghost of a smile settle on his lips as he stroked her. Here was real hope. "Tika think good things to him; help his hurt. Her mama that kind, too."
"Oh, sweetie, you have no idea how remarkable you two are." Lyri just looked puzzled as Bant smiled at her with a shimmer of tears.
Making their way through the crowded rooms, Tika and Lyri offered comfort while Bant did her exams. Bant noticed Lyri healing some minor chafing and abrasions as she comforted. She definitely needed to try to assess the young woman's skills. They needed all the help they could get in the Infirmary. This might very well be a place she could help out, even if she wasn't a Jedi. She was still Force-sensitive.
When it was late in the morning, Bant told Lyri they needed to go to her office for a discussion and that they would have a quick lunch sent in. In the afternoon they would go to see the younglings. Lyri visibly brightened at this.
As they entered Bant's office and closed the door, Lyri looked at her curiously. "What we talk about, Bant?" Bant smiled softly at her.
"Well...Obi-Wan would have talked to you about this, sweetie, but he thought it would be easier coming from a female, so you could ask questions about parts you don't understand. It is a discussion young females usually have with their mothers when they reach a certain age. Your mother just didn't get the chance." A shadow of sadness passed over Lyri's face.
"Oh. Is about man and woman?"
"Yes, sweetie." Bant got out a few illustrations to help Lyri visualize. "We don't want something happening to you because you don't understand enough to make your own decision about what you want." Lyri nodded and Bant went on to explain the basic physical side of coupling between a male and female human or humanoid. She also explained the possible consequences. Lyri was a bright girl and caught on right away though she was blushing quite a bit. But she felt comfortable with Bant and decided to ask some questions.
"So...when man kiss you and touch you some places and you feel...mmmm...butterfly feeling in stomach and in these part," she said, pointing to an illustration of female genitalia, "that mean your body want him?" Bant nodded.
"But...why you get wet feeling there? Why it turn wet?" asked Lyri, blushing further as she pointed to the same picture. Bant studied her a moment, wondering how she knew about that. Perhaps it had just been a spontaneous reaction to an infatuation with Obi-Wan. If he had kissed her on the cheek, hugged her, and she was infatuated that could very well have happened. She let the thought go.
"That is your body's way of getting you ready to receive him, sweetie. If your vagina didn't do that, it would be difficult for him to glide into you and keep a motion going until you climax." Lyri looked at a picture of the male genitalia and swallowed. The thought frightened her and excited her at the same time when she thought about Obi-Wan. "It...mmm...it hurt? It look...big." She blushed more deeply. Bant smiled. "When you are with someone you love, you will most likely couple many times. It will hurt the first time or too a little, then your vagina will stretch a little; after that you will get used to it and only feel the good part." Lyri nodded thoughtfully.
"You say he move until climax. How is...what climax feel like, Bant?"
Bant thought a moment. "That is a hard one, Lyri. Hmmm. It is sort of like a hot explosion of feeling inside you. You get closer and closer to it and you want it so badly, then all of the sudden it happens and you shudder in pleasure around his shaft and it is amazing and makes you feel wonderful from deep inside all over. Afterwards you feel like you could just melt or float for a little while and if the man is caring, he will hold you. All this happens when you both want the coupling, Lyri," she said evenly. You don't ever have to agree just because a male wants it. Do you understand? It should be something you both want."
Lyri looked at her and nodded solemnly. Bant remembered what Obi-Wan had told her about his reason for placing temporary shields around her memories and thought they should probably make an appointment with the mind healers sooner rather than later. She also decided it would be good to start the young woman on some form of contraception. When she had explained the various methods to Lyri, they decided to try an injection that worked for six standard months at a time. Bant went ahead and gave her the first injection.
"Bant, if I...if I have more question later time, I can ask you?""
"Of course, sweetie. You can come to me with anything. I will be happy to answer your questions."
"Oh, Bant! You best good friend to me. Thank you," she said and hugged the Mon Calamari tightly, once again bringing tears to her eyes. "The privilege is mine, sweetie," she said softly.
As the afternoon wore on, Bant and the healers in the younglings' wards realized Lyri and Tika seemed to have a very special rapport with the crechelings and older younglings both. They seemed to calm the little ones and lift their spirits. They seemed to know instinctively which little ones needed the most comfort at a given time. Tika let the younglings crawl all over her and wore a silly canine grin. The children all said she talked to them and Bant knew this most likely was true. "Oh Bant, think how wonderful it would be if she and the canine could work here with us, even part time? It would free Tryla up to work with the wounded more." Bant had been thinking along the same lines.
"We will have to see what the top brass say about it and work her in gradually, Taela, because she has a lot of classes she is enrolled in to help her catch up and needs time to adjust. But I was thinking the same thing," said Bant. We just have to make sure everybody's on board since she isn't a Jedi. I'll see if I can talk to Master Kenobi about it."
"Oh, wonderful, Bant! He is on the Council and he always has an ear for what you have to say. I just think it would be wonderful!" said the Twi'lek healer.
Lyri overheard them talking and felt happy and excited. Here was a place she could contribute and she loved the younglings. Maybe she would talk to Obi-Wan about it, too. She knew she had classes and a lot to catch up on, but she was a fast learner, very much her parents' daughter in intelligence, and could probably have her classes down to half days in no time. She was determined to study hard to get her skills up to par and find more out about the world she was now living in. She couldn't think of any more rewarding or happy job than helping to heal younglings. Perhaps she could increase her healing skills with Bant and the others to teach her. Oh, she so hoped Obi-Wan would agree and get the Council to let her have this chance!
Down in the war room where Obi-Wan had been asked to lend his expertise and strategic mind to help with three separate campaigns in the next few days, he was hard at work trying to re-organize troops for a system in the mid-Rim and revamp their attack plan to be effective but allow for the least amount of civilian collateral damage. He had given a detailed report to the Council on his sabotaged mission and the time of his absence, though he let them believe he'd been lost in the wilderness of Baltimn Major. Not being one to lie, he was consoled by the fact he would be able to share the complete truth with Yoda later. The little master had said he could meet with Obi-Wan in his apartment late that evening after he got Lyri back from Coco Town and settled for the evening.
Finally glancing at his chrono, he gave a few parting instructions to the remaining staff and, taking a last assessing glance at the holodisplay, took his leave. Always having been one with the ability to narrow his concentration to a precision edge when dealing with any particular task, he had accomplished quite a bit in the short time he'd been there. One of the senior staff caught up to him before he departed and squeezed his shoulder saying, "It's good to have you back, General Kenobi. We've sorely missed your keen observations and planning."
"I am sure you have done quite well in my absence as this is an exceptional staff, but I do thank you. I assure you I am quite happy to see all of you as well," he said, squeezing the other man's shoulder in return. The man watched him walk away and just shook his head. Clearly Kenobi had no idea how extraordinary his abilities really were.
Before heading to pick up Lyri, Obi-Wan stopped by the Communication Center to see about a small comm device for Lyri. He wanted something compact enough for her to tuck away and carry easily. As he looked over his choices, he asked about tracking ability, explaining his charge was new to the planet and easily lost. He finally settled on a newer model that had a fairly wide tracking range and was within the size and ease of use parameters he had in mind. The young communications specialist assured him several other Jedi had favored the device for their junior padawans. He smiled to himself, remembering the trials he had endured trying to keep track of Anakin as a young padawan. "Thank you; this will do quite nicely," he nodded at the young man as he left.
His thoughts turning to Lyri as he headed for the Halls of Healing to collect her, he wondered how her day had gone as she trailed Bant in the Infirmary. He hoped seeing so many injured and ill beings hadn't been too hard on her. As he thought about the other thing he'd tasked Bant with for the day, he had to hide a smile as someone passed him in the hall. He would have loved to have been an insect on the wall for that conversation. Coming up to the reception counter, he noticed Dreela hard at work, her desk stacked with datapads. Looking up, she cringed a little. "Good afternoon, Dreela," said Obi-Wan in his most pleasant voice. "Good afternoon, Master Kenobi," the young Twi'lek answered, clearly relieved he wasn't still displeased with her. "How may I help you today?"
"I was wondering if you could locate Master Eerin and Lyri for me."
"Yes, Master Kenobi, right away," she said as she rose to check a terminal built into the counter. "They seem to still be in the younglings' wards in Ward 2. You may go back if you wish." Thanking her, he headed down the hall past the examination rooms.
Coming to the doorway of Ward 2, he stood quietly and watched for a few moments. The younglings seemed enraptured with Lyri, who was telling them a story. Two of the little ones were sitting on Tika, with three more leaned against her. As Lyri wove her tale, an older youngling would occasionally correct her grammar. Lyri just smiled graciously and thanked her. The scene just further melted the Jedi Master's heart as he had always held a soft spot for younglings. Seeing him in the doorway, Bant made her way over to him. "Obi, your Lyri is just a natural with the younglings and an absolute gem. She and Tika were an unexpected help with the injured this morning as well. I can only think the Force must truly have led you to her." Obi-Wan opened his mouth automatically to say Lyri wasn't his, but when he glanced down at her surrounded by younglings, the words died in his throat and were never uttered. He was suddenly filled with warmth and a sense of pride. "She is pretty remarkable, isn't she?" he said instead.
Finally glancing up, Lyri saw him and a beautiful smile lit her face. Holding up a finger, a plea for an extra moment, she turned back to the children and told them it was time for her to go. Amidst an outpouring of protests she promised them she would be back the next day. Before she could stand she was engulfed in a sea of hugs and kisses, all the little ones trying to get close at once. Looking at Bant, Obi-Wan said,"It appears a rescue is in order." With that, he waded into their midst, swinging one youngling up onto his shoulders and tucking two more giggling tykes under his arms. "Now young ones, as I appear to be your ride, I need to know where to deposit you," he said with a grin. They pointed to their beds for him and he carefully set each of them down in the place indicated with a ruffle of their hair or a tweak to the nose.
Watching Obi-Wan and Lyri interact with the younglings gave Bant the strangest feeling, as though she were watching something inevitable. She stood puzzling for a moment before shaking her head and smiling to herself. "I must be more in need of rest than I thought," she said softly.
As Obi-Wan and Lyri finished depositing the younglings in their respective beds, they approached Bant, both of them grinning like younglings themselves. "Now then, Bant, as soon as I show Lyri how to use her new comlink we are planning to go into Coco Town to Dex's. Would you care to join us? We have plenty of room in the speeder." Lyri nodded enthusiastically.
"May I take a rain check on that, Obi? I have to scrub in on a couple of procedures tonight because the usual night surgical nurse is off with a terrible headache. I would love to go some other time." Obi-Wan noticed she looked tired and rather melancholy and wrapped her in a hug. "Of course, Bant. I am sure we will go again soon." When he stepped back, Lyri moved forward and took Bant's hand, looking into her eyes for a long moment. Bant just smiled a little and said, "Go on, sweetie, have a good time." She squeezed Lyri's hand and, with a last look at Obi-Wan, headed for her office. Lyri and Obi-Wan looked at each other for a moment, concern evident on both their faces. "I will try help her more, Obi-Wan," said Lyri with a soft sigh.
"I believe...just the fact you are here is helping her to some degree, sweetheart," he said, leaning over and kissing the top of her head as he pulled her to him. Though he normally didn't show such affection, except with Bant on occasion, he found it hard not to do so with Lyri. Her warmth and affectionate nature made it a natural reaction when he was around her, though he tried to be discreet when called for. We had better go see about setting your comlink up for you before we go out to Dex's place, Lyri. I want to make sure you are able to reach me whenever you need to. "Okay," she said softly and took his hand. Though he let the sleeve of his robe fall over their hands so that it wasn't obvious to others, he didn't let go. In truth he found comfort in the feel of her small hand enclosed in his.
Once he had shown Lyri the comlink and set it up for her, including a secure frequency between her and himself, he asked who else she would like him to program in for her to make it easier for her to contact them. She decided she would like Anakin and Bant which didn't surprise him. He also set the tracker and keyed his own unit to follow it so he would know where she was if she got lost or wandered into an unsafe area. He had her test it to make sure she could use it properly. She went down the hall and around the corner from the apartment and commed him. She was so excited when he answered he had to smile.
"It is you!" she said delightedly. "Who were you expecting, sweetheart?" he chuckled. "Oh!" she giggled. In a moment she came bouncing in the door excitedly. Her obvious joy over a piece of technology he took for granted caused just one more little tug on his heart.
"Alright then," he said after a few moments, "Shall we wash up and be off to Dex's Diner?"
"Oh, yes Obi!" she cried happily, and hurried to the refresher. When she had scrubbed her face, she hurried into her room to find something to wear. Laying her only other two items of clothing that came close to fitting on the bed, she sighed and picked up the faded green shift that she remembered her mother sometimes wearing when they had been in a city and gone out. It would have to do. She wasn't going to let anything spoil their evening. She was so excited to meet another of Obi-Wan's friends; and to think, he owned a diner! How fun! As she looked in the mirror and brushed her hair, she thought it would have been nice to have a pretty clip. She hoped Obi-Wan wouldn't be embarrassed by her lack of language skills. But her usual sunny disposition soon took over and she promptly came out to the common room and sat on the large, comfortable old couch to wait for Obi-Wan. "This old blue couch is almost as faded as my dress," she mused. "Maybe Anakin's friend can help me find a prettier dress for next time we go somewhere. Something that would make me look pretty for Obi-Wan," she thought shyly.
When Obi-Wan swept back into the room she looked up at him and her breath caught in her throat; he looked so dashing in his fresh tunic and polished boots. "He should have someone beautiful and elegant to go with him," she thought and blushed as she looked down at herself. Obi-Wan caught the look on her face and walked over to crouch down beside her. What is it, little one?"
"You...you look so h-handsome, Obi. I just wish…." her sentence trailed off and she looked down at her lap. He tucked a finger under her chin and tilted her head so he could look into her eyes. "I wish I look better," she said so softly he had to lean in to hear it. He searched her eyes and touched her feelings and found no trace of guile. She wasn't playing some feminine game fishing for compliments. She truly didn't know how breathtaking she was, even in the plainest clothes.
"Don't ever think or say that, sweetheart," he said, grazing her cheek with his thumb. "You are not only lovely on the outside; you are filled with a beautiful bright glow on the inside. I am not the only one who sees it. That you are so unaware of it only makes you lovelier to me. But I never want you to doubt yourself. Promise me that." He held her eyes until the hint of a smile appeared on her face and she nodded slightly. "Very good. Now let us go have a happy evening, hmmm milady? I would very much like to see that dazzling smile again." As her features lit up, he couldn't help but find an answering grin. "There you are," he murmured.
As he helped her into the oversized hand-me-down coat, he thought she really did need some clothes that fit, poor little thing. He had a few credits put aside for him by Bail after a mission he had lent assistance on. At the time he hadn't wanted to accept them, but Bail, being his usual generous self, had just winked at him and said, "You never know when you'll need something for a rainy day." He wondered if a couple of items of clothing for Lyri would qualify as a "rainy day". He would ask Bail about it. He wanted to talk to him about a few things regarding Lyri anyway. He supposed he could get Lyri outfitted in something through the Temple, but he thought it would make her feel good to have something pretty. If it was possible he would solicit Padme's help in that area. Bringing himself back to the present, he buttoned Lyri up against any possible chill. He noticed Lyri watching him with a little smile. "You get lost inside head sometime like Daddy." "And you are very observant, young one," he chuckled. "I shall have to remember that. Now then, let us go have a bit of fun."
Once they were on their way to the speeder, they were greeted by several other Jedi along the way who were delighted to see Obi-Wan and greet Lyri. A couple inquired about Tika, to which they replied that she was resting after her busy day.
Once outside, Obi-Wan breathed a sigh of relief. He looked forward to concentrating on Lyri and enjoying her reactions to her new experiences. Her motion sickness seemed to have largely abated, so she enjoyed all the sights whizzing by them in wide-eyed delight. "Oh, Obi-Wan, is all colors like rainbow!" she smiled as the multicolored neon lights became apparent all around them. Carefully dropping them into the lanes headed for Coco Town, Obi-Wan grinned as Lyri turned this way and that trying to see everything around them. "Here we go my dear," he said, pulling into a small reserved lot Dex kept for his favorite customers and landing lightly.
Taking her by the hand, he led her to the entrance as he told her about his friend Dex. She had never met a Besalisk before. As they entered the diner and stood waiting in the foyer for a table, Dex spied them and came out to the front. "Obi-Waaan, old buddy! How ya doin'?" "Hello, Dex, you old scoundrel. I am doing quite well, as you can see." The two clasped each other in a firm hug.
"Heard you was lost in the Outer Rim."
"Yes, my transport was sabotaged and we were forced to make a crash landing in a wilderness area. Unfortunately, my crew perished."
"Sorry to hear that. Now, where are my manners? Who is this little gal?"
"This is Lyri Starrider, Dex, and she is a large part of the reason I made it back to Coruscant safely."
"Well now, she's a right pretty little thing isn't she? Honey, if you brought this oversized Bantha calf back safe, you're a friend of mine." Lyri blushed at the attention, but immediately stepped forward to give the big Besalisk a hug. "Aww...she's a sweet little gal, too. Here's my best booth near the window for you two."
As Obi-Wan and Lyri took their seats, Dex dropped a couple of menus on the table and told Obi-Wan he'd take a break and catch up later. As he was about to head into the kitchen, he turned around to glance at them before entering. Having made a living in large part from being able to read people well, he grinned and shook his head slightly. "The kid's fallin' hard and he don't even know how far gone he is," he chuckled.
After they'd eaten a couple of Bantha steaks and shared a creamy, fruity concoction Dex called Triple Trouble, he gave Lyri some tokens to try the holovid games she seemed so fascinated with and sent someone to help her get started. He then sat down to visit with Obi-Wan for awhile and get the story on his crash and his little gal. When the Jedi had finished his story, the large creature looked at Lyri with a soft sadness in his eyes, an expression very rarely seen on the rough-edged creature. "Brave and sweet; perfect combination for ya, if ya don't mind my sayin' so. Plus she's a real pretty little thing."
"Well, I don't know if..," started Obi-Wan, but Dex cut him off. "Oh yes, you do," his old friend chuckled. "Don't do somethin' stupid and lose her; she deserves better."
Just then, Lyri ran up, her eyes bright and a big smile lighting her face. "I win two times! Oh Dex, is best good time I have!" she grinned and threw her arms as far as they'd reach around him in a hug. He hugged her back with a surprising gentleness. "You can come by and see old Dex any time yer down this way, honey."
Checking his chrono, Obi-Wan said, "I wish we could stay longer Dex, but I have a meeting with Master Yoda this evening and I would like to make sure Lyri is settled in beforehand."
"Okay, Obi-Wan. You get that little gal tucked in nice and safe," he said with a wink. "And don't stay away so long next time." Collecting Lyri after she had hugged Dex one last time, he started the speeder and headed them home. Glancing over at Lyri, he grinned. Returning the look she said, "Thank you, Obi. I have so a happy time."
"Exactly what I had hoped, sweetheart." The next time he glanced over, she had fallen asleep. He smiled to himself, happy to have brought her a little joy. As she stumbled along beside him in the quiet hallways of the Temple, still half asleep, he finally scooped her up to carry her the rest of the way. She sighed softly, laying her head against his shoulder and closing her eyes, thinking the safest place in all the galaxy was there in his arms.
Carefully removing Lyri's coat & boots and putting them away, he looked down at her peaceful face. Smiling softly, he pulled the comforter over her and turned the desk light on low so she wouldn't awaken to a dark room. Comming Yoda as he quietly left the apartment, he headed to the little Master's apartment, relieved to be having a chance to finally talk with him.
"Ah, somewhat troubled you have been, hmmm, Obi-Wan?" The little master directed him to sit on one of the cushions in his meditation area and brought him a cup of tea. "Yes, Master, I have. It has been difficult having to succumb to so much subterfuge regarding my absence. But I have to believe we were warned to protect this moon for an important reason as yet unknown to us."
"Yes, believe this I do as well, Obi-Wan. Seen this moon I have in more than one vision and to keep it a secret warned. Lyri, by an old friend has been warned this secret to keep, as well, has she not?" The lights from the passing speeders outside flickered through the blinds and played across their faces.
Obi-Wan's eyebrows raised in surprise. "Yes, she has but...how did you know, Master?"
"Visited I have been as well, in a way that unable to reveal I am at present. Trust me you must in this young Obi-Wan. Much may depend on this, if correct Qui-Gon is. Revealed his communication with young Lyri to me he has." Obi-Wan assumed it had been in a vision.
Obi-Wan looked a little bemused and lost as he contemplated these things. He stared down into the teacup in his lap for a moment. "I...I also have something else I need to discuss with you, Master. I find that I have...erm...feelings. Oh dear."
Yoda chuckled at his poor friend's discomfiture. "Be troubled do not, Obi-Wan. Known this I have. Another thing we must discuss, hmmm?"
"I am concerned I may be having thoughts of disregarding an important tenet of the Code, Master Yoda. I have strong feelings for Lyri that I cannot seem to suppress. I am very fond of her."
"Heh hmm...with these feelings, Obi-Wan...concerned are you that you may disregard your duty as a Jedi and before this duty put her?"
"No, Master, of course not, and I believe she understands this. But attachment is forbidden in all forms, is it not?"
"Exceptions there have been to this rule, as you know, Obi-Wan. Also, some parts of this rule I have been studying for a time now and guided I am by the Force to see things from a different point of view. Too rigid we may be in some areas if by the Force someone is called on a different path. For some Jedi, guided by the Light and steadfast on their paths in the Force, these feelings a possibility are. Great balance you have achieved, Obi-Wan, and therefore handle such feelings I believe you can. Discreet you would remain and thus, no Jedi or padawans would you lead away from the path of a Jedi. Of balancing these feelings with your duty and commitment as a Jedi, quite capable you are at this point on your destined path."
This was not what Obi-Wan had expected at all. He looked a little dazed, causing Yoda to chuckle and pat him on the knee. "Things the Force chooses to bring into our lives at a given time of its own accord, Obi-Wan. Ponder the things that told you I have and meditate upon them you must to find peace and center yourself again. Away from your destiny you will not stray."
"Thank you, Master. You have been a great help. I will meditate upon these things tonight and seek guidance."
"Speak again we will, Obi-Wan. Young Lyri has been sent to us by the Force. Much to learn there is about her. Of someone long ago she reminds me. A gentle but steady light she has in these darkening times. By your feelings for her do not be troubled."
As Obi-Wan left for a favorite meditation spot in the Room of a Thousand Fountains, he felt a lifting of the weight that had been on his shoulders. He was certain his meditation would bring him to his peaceful center once again. Listening to the soothing music of water skipping over stones in the brook, he slowed his breathing and sank into the Force.
Finally back in the apartment, he went through to his room and hung his robe on a coat hook on the back of his door. Coming out and heading to the kitchen he started the kettle and set the tea Anakin had left him on the counter, and then paused to enjoy the quiet this time of night seemed to bring. As the kettle began to heat he went to check on Lyri. Crouching down beside the bed he gently pulled the hair out of her face, letting the silken strands slip through his fingers to spill over the pillow and watching as her brow furrowed the tiniest bit. He couldn't help the soft smile that played on his lips. As he stood and pulled the comforter up over her shoulders, he let himself feel the gentle glow that was her Force signature. As he heard the whistle of the tea kettle he leaned down to let the breath of a kiss touch her sleep softened brow and quietly left the room.
He was a little disappointed when she didn't find her way to his room that night. In light of his talk with Yoda and the peace and insight found in meditation, he was no longer shying away from his own feelings. Very early in the morning, when it was still fairly dark out, he opened his eyes to find her sitting on the floor leaning against the wall across from his bed. She had a little wrinkle on her brow as she watched him and he wondered what was bothering her. "What is it little one?" he asked quietly. She looked like she would bolt at a sudden move. "I want lie by you, but I…," she looked down and he could see her blushing, even in the pale light just starting to show through the window. He was puzzled for a moment before awareness hit him...the talk with Bant. Ah...her awareness had made her shy. His eyes starting to twinkle, he put a hand up to smooth his mustache and covered his mouth for a moment in an effort not to chuckle. Her sudden shyness just struck him as adorable. He had no doubts he could get her past it soon. For now he would just take things slowly. He did, however, want her to be unafraid to talk to him about anything. Therefore, he asked her, "What is it you are afraid of sweetheart?"
"I...I'm...you, but…," she stammered.
He patted the bed. "Come over here and talk to me, sweetheart." Her eyes went wide. He couldn't help a small chuckle. "I can assure you nothing will happen that you don't want, my dear." He flicked his eyes down at the bed and back to her and patted the blankets again, his eyes still twinkling. She scooted forward and got up, slowly approaching him. "You know you can talk to me about anything, don't you Lyri?" She studied him a moment and nodded. He waited several seconds and sent a gentle caress to her mind.
Lyri took a deep breath. "I a little bit scared, Obi. I want...I want be with you but...not yet, okay? I sorry." She looked down at her hands.
His expression turned serious. "Lyri look at me," he commanded. She looked up as her heart stuttered. Was he mad? "You do not ever have to be sorry to say no to a man when that is not what you want, myself included. Is that understood?" She cringed as his eyes bored into her. "Yes," she answered, barely above a whisper. His eyes softened and he caressed her cheek. "Good. Do not ever forget that." She shook her head.
Snaking an arm toward her he flipped her on her back and tickled her until she was laughing uncontrollably. "There, that's my girl," he grinned down at her. "Now then, off with you. I have a sparring match with Anakin this morning in about half an hour. Do you mind if we just have a quick breakfast here this morning?" She shook her head and bounced off the bed and out of the room. She came back about six minutes later and handed him a cup of tea. He smiled down at her, delighted. "Thank you, my dear. I will see what I can fix us for breakfast when I return." She just smiled.
When he returned to the apartment and opened the door, the aroma assailing him caused his mouth to immediately water in response. He could hear Lyri humming in the little kitchen. Poking his head in he said, "What have you been up to in my absence, young one?" She grinned at him. "Sit, Obi. Want tea or caf?" pulling the towel from around his neck he wiped his face and tossed the towel into a bin near the refresher. "Erm...caf this morning, I suppose. She brought him a cup, steam swirling from the surface to touch his nose. He breathed in appreciatively. Then, with a bright smile, she placed a plate in front of him. There was a scrumptious looking little tam-spice caf cake and... He looked at her in delighted surprise. "Oh stars! Poached benti-hen eggs! How did you know I like them poached?"
"I hear you tell Bant no one poach egg for you since old cook gone. I know how to poach; Daddy like them that way, too."
"Oh my sweet girl! What good thing have I done to deserve you?" She just beamed at him. As she nibbled her caf cake, she watched Obi-Wan tuck in and savor every mouthful. He looked at her and shook his head as he pushed his empty plate away. "Lyri, those are the most perfectly poached eggs I have ever eaten. I must think of something special to thank you."
She blushed a little and said, "Obi, you happy. That my thank you." He swallowed and reached out to caress her face. He couldn't find words for what he wanted to say.
As they bustled about and departed, her for the Infirmary and he for the war room, they were buoyed by happy thoughts and plans for their evening. But in times of war things can change without warning. That night he told her he had been called out on a mission to a world on the far side of the Mid Rim. He wasn't sure when he'd be back as it depended on the will of the beings there to negotiate. That night she curled against him and let him wipe her tears away. "Not worry Obi. I be okay," she whispered. "I know you will, sweetheart." He curled around her and they drifted to sleep. When she awakened in the morning he was gone.
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Negotiations broke down well into the second week and the situation on the planet deteriorated rapidly. General Kenobi was called upon quickly to change from Negotiator to warrior and to plan and carry out the campaign to keep another world from slipping away from the Republic. Four months had gone by with deadly losses on both sides before the Republic troops began to make any headway.
Dragging into his Officer's quarters, a medium-sized tent on the far side of the battlefield, Obi-Wan felt weary and heartsick at the loss of life. He hadn't been able to get a comm through to Lyri for well over a month. He had been amazed the last time at the progress in her speech. He couldn't believe how much he missed her. Thinking of her sweet face, he stretched out on his cot and sank quickly into a deep sleep.
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Obi-Wan breathed in the familiar mingling of pine and floral scents as he hiked into the clearing. Near the front door of the picturebook two-story wooden home one of the zakitas raised her head. "It's alright girl. Thank you for watching over them; I will see you in the morning." He unlatched the front door and went in. Walking quietly through the house, he reached out to feel the presences of the younglings sound asleep in their rooms. A little further away in the old transport, he felt the muted presence of his old friend, who also slept. All was as it should be, so he headed for the master bedroom. Coming into the room and quietly removing his belt, Obi-Wan smiled softly. She hadn't expected him down from the mountains until the morning. He stopped and watched the planet's light play over her features as the soft breeze through the open window ruffled her hair. She turned slightly in her sleep and he could see the honeyed skin of her thigh where it curved into her buttock, the bit of lace of the edge of her panties peeking from the bottom of her silky sleepshirt. As she shifted she sighed his name softly, causing his heart to swell. He was even with her in her dreams.
Smiling, he pulled off his boots and shed his travel-worn clothes. Force, it was good to be home. Carefully sliding her sleepshirt upward, he took just a moment to savor the details of her exquisite little body; the soft swell of her pale honey breasts, the rounded indentation into her navel, the dip of her abdomen as it tapered to the little swells of her labia hidden only slightly by the soft thatch of golden hair just peeking through the soft white lace of her panties. His to love and pleasure. Returning his attention to her breasts, he leaned down and placed a gentle kiss on first one nipple and then the other. She stirred just the tiniest bit and sighed again faintly. Smiling, he placed his hands gently to the outsides, pushing her breasts together so that he could easily move from one to the other dragging his tongue across the slightly darker skin of the areola of each and swirling around her nipples. As he began sucking on her right breast, teasing the nipple with his tongue, he began a slow caress down her abdomen. Just as he reached the lace band of her panties he heard the soft little kittling sound he adored and her eyes blinked open sleepily. "Hello there," he said softly, all his love pouring into the simple greeting that was so him.
"Oh Obi, you got home early...welcome back, my love," she said, reaching for him. The love that shone in her hazel eyes lit them from within and overwhelmed him. He stopped his hands in their travels for the moment and pulled her into his lap, holding her tight against him. "Oh sweetheart, I could not stand the thought of waiting for morning and more travel. I missed you too much to wait," he murmured enjoying the soft feel of her against his bare chest and pulling the silky fabric from between them. He tossed her sleepshirt to the floor. She giggled softly as the warm curl of his chest hair tickled her already sensitive breasts. He tilted her head with a finger under her chin and captured her in a ravenous kiss. Their tongues swirled into and around each other as though in dance as their breaths flowed out and mingled. He just held her, feeling the weight of her in his arms and the gentle rise and fall of her chest against his. The corners of his mouth turned up as he caught the light scent of lavinderium.
When she smiled a little impishly and reached for his already aroused cock, he caught her hand and shook his head. "No sweetheart; let me do the touching and tasting tonight. The thought of it has kept me going these past two weeks. A soft smile lit up her face and she shivered in anticipation. It was all the invitation he needed.
The removal of her lacy panties became a soft caress down the length of her shapely legs. Laying her back gently on the bed, he brushed her nipples lightly until they stood up to his touch, and then leaned in to suckle. The soft whimpers that accompanied the arching of her body toward him caused him to chuckle softly. As he trailed kisses slowly down her abdomen, he heard her whimper, "Please, Obi." "Almost there, sweetheart," he smiled. His own arousal spiked as she whimpered for his touch on her. He could smell the soft tang that was uniquely her and gently slipped his fingers between her folds. She gasped and bucked toward him as he found her sensitive nub. Taking time to pull her to the end of the bed, he hooked one knee and pulled it over his shoulder, pushing her other leg gently to the side to open her more fully to him. Softly kissing her exposed inner thigh and hearing her whimper more insistently, he gently exposed her and ran his tongue the length of her before he began lapping at her tender folds moving closer to her center. She began to buck uncontrollably as he swirled over and around her sensitive nub and pushed his tongue into her opening. "Oh please, Obi...please," she pleaded. He curled two fingers deep into her and listened to the changes in her breathing as he moved them at different angles. He could feel her pleasure through the Force when he opened himself to it as he did now before bringing her to orgasm. She was the only one he had ever been able to share this with so completely.
Curling his fingers unerringly into her sweet spot, he thrust them in and over the spot as he kissed and licked until she was writhing and mewling under his touch. "Obi, oooh..Obi," she managed raggedly. As he felt her begin to shudder and pulse around his fingers, he let himself feel her fully and came along with her, the warmth running down his leg as he felt the aftershocks pulse through him from the sharing of her orgasm.
Grabbing a piece of his clothing he wiped himself off. Staring into her dreamy, blissful face he smiled and gripped her under the arms to pull her higher onto the bed with him. That look, the fact he was able to give her that, was what he'd been dreaming about every night in his time away. Feeling the afterglow of their shared climax, he pulled her close. "Now, my love, it's your turn," she whispered dreamily. "Shhh. Just rest here with me awhile, sweetheart. We have all night."
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Drifting in that nebulous space between sleep and a waking state, Obi-Wan reached for Lyri to once again wrap himself in her warmth, but the place beside him was empty and cold. As the acrid smells of smoke and fire reached his nostrils and the booming of cannon fire sounded in the distance, he came to the waking realization it had only been a dream. He still hadn't had the chance to be with her fully. He suddenly felt a terrible sense of longing and a tear wet his long ginger lashes. Force how he missed her. The thought of her soft light was sometimes the only thing pushing the shadows away in this ceaseless fight. With a ragged sigh he pushed himself upright, ran a hand through his hair and headed to the mess tent in search of a cup of caf and a few minutes to breathe and put his thoughts in order before yet another day of endless combat.