A/N: A dawning awareness. Obi-Wan and Lyri continue to deepen their relationship with one another while Obi-Wan comes to a stark realization of the disheartening changes that have taken place in the Temple. The war is taking a deep toll on the Jedi leaving some adrift and in need of hope. As is always his way, he searches for ways to restore that hope. *******Revised Chapter********
This chapter has run a bit longer in an effort to show some of the increasing problems now facing the decimated Jedi Order as civil war rages on in the galaxy and the question of sabotage again raises its ugly head.
A/N #2: I added a couple of things to this second posting to explain a few remaining doubts that Obi-Wan was having about his attachment to Lyri and how it briefly affected their intimacy.
Disclaimer: All Star Wars characters, arcs and locations belong to George Lucas and Disney with the exception of my originals. Just flying through the galaxy for awhile.
Feral Moon: Coruscant
Chapter 6
Landing smoothly in the area of the landing deck for smaller planetside speeders, Obi-Wan helped Lyri and Tika out and retrieved the duffle from the storage compartment. As he checked the speeder in and ushered them inside, he glanced at his chrono. "Hmmm, it seems terribly quiet for 2100 hours."
As they continued their trek toward the lifts Lyri grew very quiet. Reality slammed back into her like a runaway transport. She stopped and took his hand. Stopping to look down at her he noted the sudden sadness in her large eyes. She knew she couldn't embrace him in the hallway as her heart wanted so she just squeezed his hand. "You have had to be gone a lot, Obi-Wan, so this is strange to you. Those of us here day in and day out have watched more and more Jedi called out to battle trying to secure numerous worlds for the Republic. The sad part is that fewer return every month. Masters come back without their young padawans and...padawans come back wounded and lost without their masters. I sense that Master Yoda's heart is heavy with sadness. I sometimes see him walking the halls in the evening and join him for a little while. We don't talk much during those times, but he has told me he appreciates my company. He told me it keeps the emptiness he feels around him a little at bay. I have told him he can call me to walk with him any time he feels the need."
He looked into her eyes for a long moment, then down at the well-trod carpet of the hallway. Sighing deeply, he looked back up at her. "You are right, Lyri, though I sensed the Temple was much emptier, I hadn't realized how bad things had gotten. She saw the glisten of unshed tears in his eyes, but he quickly blinked them back and returned to his calm demeanor. He was so used to being the strength and calm that others relied on. She knew he always tried to release his feelings, but the horrors of war and the losses to the Jedi were mounting with no relief and she knew they were taking a toll on him. "I am so glad you have been here to offer support to Master Yoda. He carries the fate of so many on his shoulders; I do find myself concerned for him at times of late." Lyri looked up at him sadly and nodded. "And I find myself concerned for you as well, my love," she thought as she watched him square his shoulders and lift his head. "By the Force," he said with determination, "we must try to hasten the end of this war. So much depends on it. If you do not mind...I would like to try to speak with Yoda once you are settled in, my dear." She nodded and they continued to the lift that would take them to their floor. Tika walked quietly beside them, taking everything in.
Entering the apartment and turning on the lights, Obi-Wan dropped the duffle next to his bedroom door deciding to tend to it later. Glancing at his chrono, he pulled out his comlink and contacted Yoda. Lyri sat down on the old blue couch and listened to him. He, as always, sounded very businesslike as he conversed with Yoda, but there was a slight edge of melancholy which perhaps no one else would have noticed but her. "I will head there now," she heard him say. Pausing for a moment, he turned and looked at her. "Of course, Master Yoda," he said and closed the channel. "Master Yoda wishes me to tell you he is glad to have you home safe and sound, Lyri." He smiled softly. "He truly did sound relieved."
"Well, then. I had better be on my way as I told him I would be there within a few minutes. If you are tired you needn't wait up for me, Lyri."She stood up as he headed to the door. His hand hovered over the control panel for a few seconds when he suddenly turned around and strode back to her. "Sweetheart?" he said softly but never finished his sentence, crushing her against him instead for the space of several heartbeats. Then, leaning down to kiss her softly, he turned and headed out the door.
"He hurts," sent Tika, her amber eyes warm, but a little sad as she gazed at Lyri. "Yes, Tika. I think the hurt runs deeper than he will ever willingly let anyone know. He is like the calm, safe place that everyone tries to reach in the middle of a storm. He comforts and reassures others without ever seeking that for himself." Tika looked at the closed entry, then back at Lyri. "He is a strong pack leader...but he is also our family. We must look after him." Lyri stroked the soft chocolate fur and drew her arms around the large canine in a fierce hug. "Yes, we must," she said softly.
Making sure Tika had plenty of water and giving her the large bone Dex had given them; Lyri made a cup of tea for herself and set things out to make a cup for Obi-Wan when he returned. She took her tea into the common room and set it on the little table beside the couch. As it cooled a little, she washed her face and slipped into a silky long dark green sleep shirt with little narrow braided straps. It picked up the tiny flecks of green in her lovely hazel eyes. Settling back on the large blue couch and pulling her legs up to sit cross-legged, she took a sip of her tea and laid her hands loosely in her lap, using one of the meditation techniques she'd learned to find a deeper sense of calm and peacefulness.
After Yoda had caught Obi-Wan up on everything the Council had dealt with in his absence, Obi-Wan told the little master about the encounter with Tirak and the discovery that the Trandoshan who had tried to sell Lyri into slavery and knew about the moon was alive and could very well represent a threat to both the moon and her. "Troubling this is Obi-Wan. Knowledge of this moon's location and existence as a habitable environment, safe must be kept. Meditate on a solution to this problem I will. For now, concentrate on aiding young Skywalker in his mission to secure the Katasi-9 relay you must. Young Lyri safe here with us will be." Nodding, Obi-Wan said, "Yes, Master; those were my thoughts as well. I will be here for the Council meeting in the morning and then report to the war room to aid Anakin in his mission. I would assume he will have reached his destination by then."
As they bid each other goodnight, Obi-Wan headed to the Room of a Thousand Fountains to meditate on his favorite bench. He passed only a couple of other Jedi, mirroring their respectful bows in passing. He was relieved to find himself alone when he approached the little bench with the archway of flowering vines. The little flowers had a very delicate scent that perfumed the air in the vicinity of the archway. He breathed in deeply, closing his eyes as he sat down and attuning himself to the music of the small waterfall and little brook that bubbled nearby. It was true, what Lyri had told him about the quiet that seemed to permeate the Temple at this hour. He remembered in his youth walking through the halls at this hour as he and his friends returned from a lecture or presentation. He supposed they hadn't as much time and had to curtail a lot of the activities he had thrived on as a young thought made him sad for the young ones growing up in the Temple during these difficult times with the war raging.
Closing his eyes and running through a few breathing exercises, Obi-Wan gradually settled into a deep meditative state. As he was reaching for his deepest center, not all the way there yet, he was surprised to feel a gentle brush at the edge of his mind. Reaching out gently, he was astonished to feel Lyri's soft light hovering there. Intrigued, he reached out with his own mind to touch her, but she startled like one of the little glimmer flies that lived on some of the warmer planets near the Outer Rim and flitted away. Smiling to himself, he continued into a deeper place and reached the warm, bright spot at his center. There he rested for quite some time releasing his feelings of sadness, loss, and any lingering fears into the Force until he felt them flow away from him and was in a state of complete peace.
Gradually rising from the depths of his meditative state, feeling a deep calm restored to him, he rose from the bench and followed the little winding flagstone path back out to the common area that led to the exit. Passing a young padawan who seemed mildly distressed, even in his meditative state, Obi-Wan stopped for a moment to quietly send a tendril of soothing energy to the young man. Seeing the furrowed brow slowly relax, he was satisfied and continued on his way. Thinking about what Lyri had told him regarding a number of the masters and padawans coming back from the battlefield, he wondered if the young man was distressed due to losing his master and thus being anchorless at present within the order. Pondering what Lyri had confided in him, he made the decision to go visit some of the wounded the next day after finishing his shift in the war room.
Letting himself into his apartment, he quietly locked the door and smiled softly at the picture before him. Lyri, curled up on the couch fast asleep, her silky warm caramel hair somewhat tousled and falling in loose waves about her shoulders and along the cushions, had her hand curled in the big ruff of fur at the zakita's neck. As Obi-Wan approached the couch the canine's amber eyes popped open and she raised her head to watch him. Winking at the large canine, he put his index finger to his lips to keep her quiet. Walking to the couch, he crouched down and lifted a few wayward locks of hair from Lyri's face, just filling himself with the sight of her for a few moments.
Noticing the half-finished cup of tea on the end table, he stood and picked it up heading to the kitchen in search of a cup of tea for himself. He found everything laid out for him, including his favorite tea. Glancing over his shoulder at Lyri's peaceful form, he was filled with a soul-deep sense of peace and contentment. A sense that being with her and Tika was being home. It was something more than what he had felt with Qui-Gon, though that had been some sense of home. He'd loved the man as if he were his father. He'd also had somewhat of a home with Anakin. This feeling went deeper, however, and filled him in a way nothing else ever had. It seemed a missing piece had fallen into place somehow. Setting the kettle on to boil, he leaned against the frame of the kitchen entryway and just gazed at his sleeping little waif, his heart swelling to try to contain his feelings.
Tika looked up at him and cocked her head, making him smile. "Yes, I love you both," he said softly. She thumped her tail against the carpet and gave him one of her canine grins. He shook his head as his eyes began to twinkle. "I wouldn't dare forget you, clever girl." he chuckled softly.
Preparing his tea, he took his cup into the common room and sat in the comfortable old easy chair that had belonged to his former master. He sometimes talked to Qui-Gon softly there when he was troubled over his seeming inability to impart some bit of wisdom to Anakin. But he also shared the young man's remarkable achievements with his old master. He spoke of other things from time to time as well. He supposed it was illogical and perhaps silly, but he always felt close to Qui-Gon there and some part of him hoped, even knowing Qui-Gon had been reclaimed by the Force, that somehow his words might reach him. At this moment he just looked across the room at the forms of Lyri and Tika so quiet in slumber and said, "Master? I wonder if you know the love I feel for this woman. I never thought to have this in my life. Sometimes the feeling is overpowering, yet I have still been able to find a balance and adhere to my obligations as a Jedi. Out of love, she makes it easy for me. Is this what you felt for Tahl? I wish I could have spoken to you about her without the prejudices of my youth regarding love. Forgive me, Master."
Qui-Gon smiled softly, unseen by his former padawan. "You were forgiven long ago, Obi-Wan." He longed to reach out and touch the younger man but he knew the time wasn't right yet.
Finishing his tea, Obi-Wan sat quietly for several moments before rising to return his cup to the kitchen. He wanted nothing more than to take Lyri in his arms and to feel the deep connection of making love with her. But he suddenly had an uneasy feeling with the realization he was crossing a line inside the Temple that he had never breached. This was the place discretion was most needed and there was always the chance, however small, that this most intimate connection could be discovered. His commitment to the Order and his position on the Council meant he must be beyond reproach. Too much depended on it. It also could mean Lyri's expulsion from the Temple. He certainly couldn't expect Yoda to cover for them. Sighing, he looked across at the entryway. It was as though the old stolid Obi-Wan had entered and was there to judge him and to remind him of the worst consequence of all. "What would be the effect on Anakin were he to find out? You know his strong feelings for Senator Amidala. You tell him not to form attachments, yet you are attached. If he were to discover this, could it not contribute to his downfall?" Logically he knew the chance of discovery was very remote, but the thought sat stubbornly at the edge of his mind.
Taking a calming breath, he attributed the thoughts to this being their first time in a place that had always held rigid boundaries for him and tried to brush them aside. Quickly rinsing the two cups and setting them in the small drainer to dry, he returned to the common room and lifted Lyri into his arms. "Goodnight, Tika," he whispered and carried Lyri into his bedroom.
About a third of the way to the bedroom, as he turned off the lights, he turned to look down at Lyri and watched her open her eyes sleepily. "Hello there," he said softly. "You're home Obi," she murmured giving him a sleepy smile and reaching up to lay her hand on his cheek. "Yes, I believe I am," he whispered and lowered his head to capture her in a soft lingering kiss.
Lowering her gently to his bed, he put the lights on a very dim setting. Approaching the bed again, he ran his eyes over her slowly. The creamy honey tone of her skin against the deep green of her silky sleep shirt almost made his mouth water. Looking into her large, sleepy hazel eyes, he knew exactly how he wanted her. She reached out to him and he took her hand gently, pressing his lips to it. "I'll only be a moment sweetheart," he said in a voice growing husky with desire. Then she gave him one of those sweet, tentative little smiles that never failed to melt his heart.
Pulling off his boots and socks, he set them beside the chair. Lyri heard the soft rustle as he removed his tunics and smiled as he shimmied out of his trousers and underwear. She felt a warm tug at her center as she slowly raised her eyes from his strong calves and thighs up to his warm smile and the midnight glint of his eyes. She loved the way they darkened as his desire grew. Let's take off this beautiful gown; it is so lovely on you, I don't want to take a chance on ruining it." So saying, he gently slid it from beneath her and slipped it over her head. When she shivered and her nipples stood up in the cool air, he looked into her eyes for a moment then lowered his head to suckle, the wet warmth an intoxicating contrast to the cool air around her. It only took moments to have her arching into him and whimpering in helpless desire. When he lifted his head several minutes later, she felt the sudden loss of warmth and shivered. Lifting her slightly, he turned back the bed and lowered her again, pulling the sheet and blankets up to her chin. "Obi, I thought we…" she started, the need evident in her voice. "Shhh, my impatient little flower, not to worry...trust me," he said and crawled over to slip into the covers behind her.
Reaching down to skim her panties off, he tossed them onto the floor near the chair. Sliding in behind her, he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her into him, pressing her against the length of his body. As he held her in an intimate spooning position with one arm, he began caressing her and nuzzling her neck. Running his hand in light circular patterns over her breasts, he felt her nipples rise to his touch and smiled as she arched into his hand.
Trailing his hand in a long sensuous caress down her abdomen and into the crease of her thigh, he pulled her round little bottom against him, enjoying the pliant warmth against his groin. "I love the way you fit so perfectly here," he whispered. She sighed softly in response and he began running a finger lightly along her crease until he heard her whimper. Finding her little nub, he began massaging in slow circles until she was wriggling against him and whimpering uncontrollably. The heat and movement against his manhood caused him to become more fully aroused.
Feeling his shaft hardening against her, Lyri tried to reach down to bring it to her entry, but he caught her and pinned her arms beneath the arm he had wrapped around her. She let a small whine escape and he kissed her neck and whispered just behind her ear, the warmth of his breath touching her with his words. "Relax, sweetheart; let it last awhile." Slowly moving his hand back to her thigh, he caressed her until she calmed a little and then returned to a light touch at her center.
As she finally began to wriggle more frantically again and he heard the frantic edge to her mewling, he slid a finger in and knew she was more than ready for him. Sliding it back out and over her nub once more, he shifted slightly behind her.
"How does he bring me to such deep wanting," she thought in a haze of pleasure tinged by deeper need. As he shifted, she felt him begin to push into her from behind. The angle and position were new to her; the sensations slightly different. When she started to push back too quickly he grasped her hips and guided her at a slower pace until she had taken all of him. Pulling her bottom tight against him again, he heard her whimper.
"Oh, I need to move; I need to get to the edge," she thought desperately. "I can't last! I know he wants to move slowly, but I can't. What is wrong with me? I feel so unsettled. Oh please get me over the edge." She started squirming and tried to rock against him. When he attempted to still her again, she let out a frustrated breath. "I can't Obi, I need you. I'm sorry; I don't know why...I can't do what you want," she started to sob.
Obi-Wan knew she had been through a lot she probably hadn't been able to come to terms with yet. Perhaps she was even picking up on his own uneasiness. Sensing how agitated she was, he stroked her hair reassuringly. "Shhhh, sweetheart, it is alright. Let me help you," he murmured. He kissed and nuzzled her neck, soothing her while at the same time he moved his hand down and massaged her just above his shaft. The sensation of his touch there while she was filled with him soon had her bucking as she burst through and shattered in release. The clenching and rippling around Obi-Wan brought a soft groan from him. When he felt the ripples of her orgasm decrease considerably, he began moving slowly, letting the slick warmth arouse him further. She was relaxed now and could finally enjoy the slow loving he wanted to share with her. "Thank you, Obi," she whispered hesitantly. "Any time, my sweet girl," he answered softly.
The slow glide over her heightened nerve endings drew her deeper and deeper into euphoric pleasure. She was lost in the heady masculine scent that was slightly spicy and just his and could feel the warmth of his touch all over her. She felt his hand slide up to fondle her breasts, sending jolts of heat to her center and began mewling like a hungry kittling. It seemed she had been in this state of growing, tingling pleasure for hours. A soft answering growl vibrated through Obi-Wan's chest as he tangled a leg with hers and increased his pace the tiniest bit. His soft groans heightened her arousal even further and she was very close, grinding her bottom into his groin helplessly. Tightening his arm to hold her firmly against his chest, he nuzzled her and whispered his love to her. "Obi," she sighed breathlessly and started a long pulsing fall into oblivion. As he felt the undulating waves surround him, he groaned deeply and tumbled after her.
As their breathing began to slowly even out and they drifted back to the present, Obi-Wan nuzzled her just behind the ear and murmured, "Alright now sweetheart?" She stirred a little and he felt her heart rate increase just the tiniest bit. "Yes, Obi, that...that was amazing. I...I'm sorry I was so difficult at the beginning." When he didn't say anything right away, her stomach clenched. Sensing her sudden apprehension, Obi-Wan cuddled her close. "You've no need to be sorry, sweet girl. I am only sorry I didn't realize how distressed you were sooner. Please know when there is something you need, that you don't have to be afraid to tell me. I know you are trying to come to terms with all that has happened to you in the past few days. I too have some things to work through, which I shall try to explain to you tomorrow, if that is alright. Sometimes emotions can translate into a physical need." When she turned her head to look up at him, a single tear slipped down her cheek. "Oh, sweetheart; shhh, everything is alright," he said and traced the tear with his finger, whispering, "You have my heart, Lyri. I love you." His eyes held so much gentleness and warmth in their blue-green depths, she knew he was being truthful with her. Finally feeling relaxed and at peace, she snuggled into him and they slept.
After sharing first-meal the next morning, Obi-Wan and Lyri headed in opposite directions; he to the High Council chamber and she to collect Tika before heading to the Halls of Healing. He had mentioned to her that he would like to visit with some of the wounded later and she told him she would inform Bant.
The Council meeting proved to be quite lively that morning. After discussing the Chancellor's latest request that Jedi teams and troopers be sent to two more systems in the Mid Rim that were threatening secession, they received a communication from Commander Skywalker that he had reached the outer edge of the planetary system near Katasi-9 and was beginning reconnaissance. As soon as Obi-Wan had negotiated a compromise between members of the Council who couldn't agree on how to approach yet another request from the Chancellor, the meeting adjourned. Just before Obi-Wan left for the war room, Yoda approached him. "Always good it is to have you here, Master Kenobi. Run much smoother the meetings do with your ability to negotiate between stubborn masters with opposing viewpoints."
"Master Yoda, I am certain there are others who could do just as well, but I am happy to be of service."
Yoda glanced out the window. Looking back at Obi-Wan, his large eyes softened. "Young Lyri; how is she? Recovering well from her attack is she? Good, things are between you?"
Obi-Wan blushed slightly and chuckled. "Yes, Master, things are good between us and she seems to have no lasting physical effects from the attack. Which reminds me; she would like me to train her in the use of the Bo staff. She is adept at the use of ancient weaponry and feels this would give her a fighting chance if she should find herself in a dangerous situation again. I have given this some thought and find I have to agree with her." Yoda's eyes began to twinkle. "Sweet and gentle young Lyri is, but when called forth, a bright spark beneath the surface burns. A demonstration I have seen of her prowess with the ancient bow. Plays into her speed and accuracy the Force does, but her mastery and skill from her need to survive have come. Unfortunate as a child she was not found. An exceptional Jedi she would have made."
"I agree with this assessment, Master. I too wish we had found her as a child. But, perhaps she wouldn't be the person she is today. She should never have had to go through what she did, but she has developed some unique abilities because of it. She will be happy to know she has your blessing to learn the Bo Staff. Thank you Master Yoda."
Yoda grinned. "An easing of your mind I sense this will have as well, young Obi-Wan." A little smile formed on the younger master's face and he nodded his agreement. Having nothing further to discuss at the moment as he still needed to think through a request for Lyri to be able to lend medical assistance to the poor refugees arriving in the lower mid-levels, he bowed in farewell and left for the war room.
As Lyri and Tika arrived at the Infirmary, Dreela hurried out from behind the reception desk and put her hand out to squeeze Lyri's arm. "Oh, Lyri, thank the Force you're okay! We heard someone attacked you at the top of the lower levels! You are okay aren't you?" Lyri stepped forward and hugged the young Twi'lek, whom she had become friends with over the past several months. "Yes, I'm alright now, thanks to Master Kenobi and his friend Dex." Reaching out to ruffle the big canine's fur, Dreela smiled and said, "Oh, and wonderful, brave Tika, too, I heard." Tika just grinned and wagged her tail.
"Yes, Tika held Tir...my attacker until Master Kenobi could get there to deal with him." Lyri was rather guarded about how much she told other beings about the particulars of her past. They all had a basic knowledge of the loss of her parents and her life as a feral youngling, but only those closest to her, with the exception of the Jedi mind healer, knew the ugly details of what had befallen her in her young life.
"Bant will be so glad to see you looking so well. She probably wouldn't tell you, but she has been terribly worried about you. The younglings keep asking where you are, too."
"Well, Dreela, I must say I am happy to be back. How are those two young padawans that had lost their masters? The two who came in the day of my mishap?"
"Bant can fill you in on the particulars, but from what I can tell the Togruta seems to be faring better than the Human. Their wounds are slowly coming along, but the human seems very withdrawn and lost. I know togrutas have much more fiery dispositions and maybe that helps. You should have met the one who used to be apprenticed to Commander Skywalker. Anyway, the human wakes up screaming for his master in the middle of the night. They both are suffering from the violent break of their training bonds, too. It's as though it rips out a piece of your mind."
"How is Bant doing?"
"Bant Eerin is doing just fine, thank you," the Mon Calamari healer said behind them, causing both girls to jump. "I believe you have work to do Dreela." The young Twi'lek bowed in deference and scurried back to her computer terminal. "You know it isn't right to be discussing patients in such an open area, girls," she scolded as both of them hung their heads a little. "It was my fault," said Lyri immediately. "I was just anxious to know how they were doing."
"Why don't we go to my office and I'll fill you in on what has been going on in your absence."
"Of course, Bant. I am sorry for my lack of discretion." "I need to remember to be discreet about a number of things," she thought as she followed Bant.
As soon as they got into the office and shut the door, Bant put the charts she was carrying down and hugged Lyri tight. Then, holding her out at arm's length, she said, "Let me look at you sweetie. Are you really alright? How in star's name did you end up down near the lower levels?" Tika looked at Lyri and blinked her warm amber eyes. "Perhaps a partial truth would be best," she sent. "Agreed," Lyri sent back.
When Lyri had explained about going on a dinner date with the seemingly charming young senator who turned out to be a complete cad and left her stranded, Bant was appalled and wanted to know how Obi-Wan could have allowed her to leave with him before running a decent background check. She told Bant that she thought he had run some kind of check and also that she had lost her comlink when the senator had hurriedly whisked her away. She explained that she had been trying to find help to contact Obi-Wan when she was attacked by the Zabrak who had killed her parents and that Obi-Wan, Dex and Tika had rescued her and Obi-Wan had arrested the Zabrak who was now in prison. She also told Bant that Obi-Wan had taken care of her and watched over her for the last couple of days to make sure she was recovered. She didn't want Bant to be too angry with her old childhood friend; though she had a feeling a certain amount of scolding was inevitable.
"Oh, Bant; the reason I was asking about the wounded padawans who lost their masters during battle was that Obi-Wan wants to come by and visit with them for awhile after he finishes in the war room. He is turning something over in his mind; I can tell. I am not sure what thoughts he is entertaining just yet, though I have my suspicions. But he wanted me to make sure you thought they'd be well enough for a visit. I know from experience he can be very calming."
"Yes he can, Lyri, more so than anyone I know," she said as her eyes softened with affection. "Hmmm...He'll probably want to know a little about how they came to be here. I am assuming he is particularly interested in those who have lost a padawan to master bond."
"Yes, Bant; how did you know?"
"When Obi-Wan's own master lost his life, they had a particularly strong training bond; perhaps the strongest I've seen. There was a little rockiness in their relationship near the end, but they seemed to get past that. They cared deeply for each other. When Qui-Gon was killed their bond was suddenly severed, leaving him with not only the loss of his master, but the effects of the bond being literally torn from his mind. It left a gaping wound that wasn't visible on the outside except for severe headaches for a period of time. I am sure the emotional effects were probably far worse. Not only that, he didn't even have the chance to grieve properly because he had a child padawan from a difficult background to care for and begin training. I don't know if any of the rest of us could have handled the situation with such grace. If anyone can relate to these wounded padawans...and masters...it is Obi-Wan."
"Thank you so much for telling me this, Bant. I never realized the extent of his loss. It's no wonder he has been so understanding and patient with me."
"That, and he cares a great deal for you, sweetie. You couldn't ask for a better friend to have in your corner." Lyri blushed slightly and looked down lest her eyes betray her feelings. Every time she learned something new about him, her respect and love for Obi-Wan grew deeper. She knew he had some faults, of course, but those were far outweighed by the light and good in him.
While Obi-Wan waited in the war room for Anakin to finish his reconnaissance and report in, he checked in on some of the active campaigns and lent his expertise in whatever capacity he could. When he saw how thinly the Jedi and their resources were spread, he sighed and shook his head. "Some of the campaigns are going quite well, but for each one we succeed with, it seems another one or two rise up and take their place." Everyone present murmured their agreement. One of the senior war room staff said, "It seems things have gotten worse ever since that General Grievous surfaced."
Obi-Wan stroked his beard, thoughtfully. "I have the feeling either he or Dooku are behind this small amassing of troops near Katasi-9. They certainly have to know how crucial this relay is to us. If it is disabled, we will lose a good part of our communication with half the Outer Rim forces." Everyone nodded their solemn agreement.
About an hour later, Padawan Daen turned from the banks of blinking lights at the war room communications console and said, "General Kenobi, sir? Commander Skywalker has just made contact and wishes to speak with you."
"Very good; thank you Padawan Daen." The young man got up and offered his seat to Obi-Wan. Adjusting a couple of the controls when he sat down to cut down on static, he finally said, "General Kenobi to Commander Skywalker, do you copy?"
"Yes, Ma…..er, General. It's good to have your input. As you know, we are in the area of Durkteel and its neighbors close to the Durkteel Loop. There is a cluster of small planets not too terribly far away. It appears the Seps are sneaking in a few at a time trying to remain undetected. Whatever populations are located there are very low tech and not concerned with them. There are a lot more of them than we had initially thought, General. Our relay has remained hidden a long time amongst all the space stations in the area, but you can bet the Seps have eyes on it now."
Obi-Wan tapped a finger on the console desk for a moment and reached up to slide his fingers the length of his ginger beard. "Hmmm. This is not the situation I was hoping for. They no doubt have fighters patrolling the area fairly steadily with a larger contingent like this."
"Yeah, we've been able to evade them so far. We've pretty much picked up on their pattern. They're not being all that careful, so I'm betting they don't know we're here."
"Do not take anything for granted, Anakin." It slipped out in that scolding, schoolmaster voice before he could catch himself. Looking up sheepishly at the war room staff, he sighed. "I apologize for that, Commander," he said, slipping back into proper protocol. "What did you have in mind?"
"I've been giving this some thought and I think I can slip in with a handful of troopers and check the status of weapons on the station. We can try to at least give the personnel manning the station some basic defensive training for a last ditch effort if we can't draw the Seps away somehow. My concern at this point is that there are still Sep ships slipping in. The odds don't look promising, but I still think I've got to try."
"Alright, agreed. But be sure to contact me once you're inside the station. Where have you hidden our own troop transport? Are they out of harm's way for now?"
"Yeah, pretty sure. There's a small planetoid on the opposite side of the station, plenty big enough to hide the troop transport. There hasn't been any indication they know we're here. You can probably pinpoint us more or less on the holocartography map if you take a look. I'll send you all the coordinates. It'll give you a better idea what we're dealing with."
"Very good; I shall do so now. I shall be awaiting your call from the station." He looked down for a moment, then at the console. "May the Force be with you, my friend."
"Padawan Daen, I know you are quite good at pinpointing such things as wayward ships that go missing. I wonder if you could help me sort out Commander Skywalker's location near Katasi- 9?" The young man blushed and mumbled, "Of course, General."
As Lyri and Tika finally reached the point in their daily routine where they headed to the younglings' wards, they could hear the giggling and occasional wails of myriad little voices. Tika looked up at Lyri and they grinned at each other. The time spent with these little ones always nourished their flagging spirits and set a difficult day aright.
As they appeared at the door of the first ward, all eyes turned their way and a wave of pure joy washed over them. As they moved to the middle of the room and sat on the floor near each other, the little bodies of the young ones pressed against them, each one wanting to pat them or stroke them in reassurance that they had actually returned.
"Oh, Lyri, it is so good to see you back safely amongst the younglings. I heard there was some mishap and you were stranded at the top of the lower levels," said Taela. As with most beings she had met, the Twi'lek was drawn to the young woman and couldn't help but give her a hug.
"Thank you so much, Taela. I am glad to be back safely as well." Lyri took the Twi'lek nurse's hand. "Not everyone on this planet is as kind and good as you and Bant."
"Nurse said you were on a 'venture," said one small humanoid with pale lavender skin and a shock of silvery hair. "Did you see any pirates?" Reaching out and ruffling the silvery locks, Lyri had to laugh. "Well, I'm sure there must have been some pirates in that club full of ruffians!" she grinned. "I'm just glad Master Kenobi was able to find me when he did."
"Yeah, they might've tooken you to their ship an' made you into a pirate, too!" the youngling proclaimed. There was a gasp from all the other young ones nearby. Then a little female blue-skinned Twi'lek stood with her pudgy little hands on her hips and said, "No pirate could ever win 'gainst Master Kenobi!" As all the other little females nodded their agreement, Lyri had to stifle a giggle. "Master Kenobi would just stick 'im wif his lightsaber!"
They all turned, startled, as a deep chuckle sounded from the entryway. "I daresay I would try to arrest the villainous scum first. Lightsabers are a last resort, young one." As a little pout formed on the youngling's face and she stared down at the floor, Obi-Wan stepped into the room. Crouching down beside the little Twi'lek, he said, "Of course, in some instances, tickling has been known to be a deterrent." He then caught her and tickled her until she couldn't stop giggling. "You do see how effective it can be." He looked up and winked at Taela.
Holding the little female close for a moment, he soothed her to a state of calm again, lest whatever condition she had be affected. As he held her, he addressed Lyri. "Did you have time to speak with Bant regarding the wounded padawans, yet?"
"Oh, yes, Obi-Wan. She said to ask for her when you came in so she could discuss them with you. I'm sure Dreela knows where she is."
"Thank you, Lyri. I shall try to catch up with you at the end of your shift and accompany you to last-meal. I am hoping we can talk Bant into joining us."
"That would be wonderful. Bant takes a lot of her meals in her office and she really needs to get away from the Infirmary for awhile." Taela chimed in her agreement with that assessment.
"Very good. I shall see you later," he said, leaning down to ruffle Tika's fur. The big canine gave him one of her silly grins, leaving the younglings in a fit of giggles.
As Bant entered her office, Obi-Wan stood to embrace her. Bant leaned into him and clung for a moment as though he were a life-float in a turbulent sea. "Bant, my dear friend, you are exhausted beyond belief," he said tightening his hold on her. He realized immediately that she had lost weight as well. As she stepped back, he looked her up and down in an assessing manner. As he looked into her eyes, his own eyes softened. "Bant, you must take care of yourself. We cannot afford to lose you."
"I am doing the best I can, Obi. We are so terribly short-handed." He reached out and caressed her cheek and her eyes grew wet with unshed tears. "I am hoping I can offer a little bit of help," he said quietly. "May I ask about some of the cases in which padawans have lost their masters? I would also like to visit some of the Knights who have lost apprentices. I have an idea, but I need to make an assessment of the situation and the state of mind of these individuals before I can be sure it would work. I don't want to get anyone's hopes up until I assess things."
"Of course, Obi. I wouldn't do this under normal circumstances, but I am putting you down as being involved in the care of these patients so that you may review their records. You have the highest sense of integrity of anyone I know and I trust you completely with this information in your efforts to help. I separated copies of the files for the patients you want to look at into a separate folder in the system. The file is classified and has your name on it. You can set your passwords and put your own notes into the file. Everything will, of course, be encrypted to protect everyone involved."
"Thank you very much, Bant. I am sorry to have created more work for you."
"Oh, Obi...if you can help them it will be well worth it. You can go ahead and use the data terminal here in my office for privacy. I need to return to my patients."
"By all means, Bant. Thank you."
An hour later, Obi-Wan rapped on the entryway to one of the intermediate areas where those recovering from surgery and stabilized to some degree resided. A young Togruta female was lying on her back in one of the two beds, staring up at the ceiling. Draping one arm over her eyes, she said, "I told you I'm not that hungry; just leave the tray on the table and go bother someone else."
"I would be happy to do that but I seem to have missed your tray somewhere along the way. You may as well give me a few moments of your time, since you won't be using it to dine at present."
"Listen, bantha-brain, if you think…" she said, suddenly turning toward him. The words died on the young Togruta's tongue. "Oh, kriff!" she muttered under her breath. She reminded Obi-Wan so of Ahsoka, he felt a little pang and had to swallow before he continued. "Master Kenobi!" she said, quickly regaining her composure. "I'm sorry, Master Kenobi. I know it's no excuse, but it's been a long day," she said, her eyes resting on the empty bed. Obi-Wan brushed her mind very gently. Ah...her roommate had been rushed into surgery with a complication and hadn't survived. "Understandable and forgiven, young one."
He went into the room and sat at the end of her bed. "I was wondering, if it is not too difficult, if you could tell me something about your master and your final mission together. Your name is Shakhia, is it not?" He waited quietly while she collected herself.
"Yes, Master Kenobi, I am Shakhia. My master was Tal'in Sae. We were on a mission leading troops to secure a small planet at the near edge of the Outer Rim. There was another team accompanying us; a human master and padawan. Master Kabe; you may have known him. " Obi-Wan nodded quietly. "I...I don't think his padawan is doing very well. His name is Rollin. The intelligence we were given for the mission was faulty. The Seps must have gotten there earlier than our intelligence indicated because there were a far greater number of battledroid battalions than we had anticipated. They were waiting to ambush us as we entered a particularly narrow pass on the way to the capital city." She stopped, looking down at her hands and taking a couple of deep breaths. Obi-Wan reached out and squeezed her shoulder reassuringly. When she looked up at him, her large blue eyes held a haunted expression. "Master Kenobi…"
"Take your time, young one."
"Master Sae and Master Kabe died protecting us. They shielded us. I think...I think the mission was sabotaged somehow. But who would do that?" Who, indeed? Obi-Wan thought about his own sabotaged mission.
"Master Kenobi, I feel like part of me is gone. There's a place in my mind that has gone dark." He watched her wipe angrily at a couple of tears.
"This I understand well, young one. Your training bond was severed violently. I experienced much the same when my master was killed. If it would help, I can share a few techniques I learned to help me through the worst of it."
"Thank you. What will I...I am not ready for the trials yet, Master."
"Not to worry young one; I am working on that. Just work to restore your health."
"Thank you, Master," she breathed gratefully. He stood and squeezed her shoulder again. "If you are having a particularly difficult time with your loss, please feel free to contact me, young one. Master Bant or Lyri will know where to find me." With that he gave a slight bow and left.
He stopped at the darkened room in which young Rollin slept fitfully. The aura of despair was so thick he instinctively strengthened his shields. Checking his chrono, he decided to wait until he had more time to try to speak with the young human. Shakhia had been right. Master Kabe's young padawan was not doing well at all. He stood in the entry for a few moments stroking his beard in thought. It had always been hard for him to see suffering without trying to ease it in some way. Before leaving he sent a wave of soothing energy to calm the young man, quieting his slumber.
Making his way to the main waiting area, he found Lyri and Tika waiting for him there. Lyri was curled up in one of the plush chairs with her head leaned against Tika's. Their eyes were closed and he knew they were communing in a way known only to them. He smiled softly, thankful he had made certain the two weren't separated when they left the moon. Not wanting to disturb them just yet, he went to Bant's office to thank her for her assistance and invite her to join them for last-meal.
As he approached the door and raised his hand to knock, Obi-Wan became acutely aware of his friend's deepening sadness. Finally rapping his knuckles lightly against the smooth surface, he waited while Bant collected herself and asked him to enter. Sitting across from her, he watched as she straightened up stacks of flimsiplast and datapads, not looking him in the eye. "Did you find the information you needed in the files, Obi?" she said, trying for a businesslike demeanor. He finally reached out and stilled her hands.
"Bant, I have known you for too long for you to hide from me. Please allow me to help in whatever way I can." When she looked up, the concern in the depths of his sea-blue eyes just about undid her. Her large eyes shimmered and she had to blink rapidly to hold back tears.
"Oh, Obi, no matter what I do it's not enough. I barely have time to try to heal them and make them somewhat whole again before they are replaced with two more. The new knights are getting younger; they should still be padawans but are pushed into knighthood for the war effort. When is it going to stop? There won't be anything left of us if this war keeps on raging. We were never meant to be soldiers."
Obi-Wan let out a slow breath. "I cannot disagree with you Bant. I never thought to see civil war in the Republic. Jedi were meant to be peacekeepers. At the risk of sounding treasonous, I don't believe the Jedi Council's decisions should be so enmeshed with those of the Chancellor. That being said, we have sworn allegiance to the Republic and cannot turn our backs on her. I have to believe we will end this war soon. It is ruining the lives of too many beings." Bant sighed deeply and put her head in her hands.
Standing and moving around behind Bant, Obi-Wan massaged her tired shoulders. "Don't give up hope just yet, my friend. We need you too much. However, you do need to take a little time away from the Infirmary now and again and you need to remember to rest. Tonight you are going to last-meal with Lyri and me. I will not take no for an answer, so don't even try." She looked up at him gratefully. There were times when she truly appreciated this take charge attitude he often adopted since he'd matured. This was because she knew it at its root was his need to care for those around him. "Alright, Obi. I guess I do need to see a little of the world outside these Infirmary walls."
"Good decision, Bant. I really did not want to have to throw you over my shoulder to get you away from here," he chuckled and leaned over to kiss the top of her head. She looked up at him a little surprised. He had always been fairly reserved about showing affection. It wasn't encouraged in the Order. "Seeing her puzzled expression, he smiled. "You may blame Lyri for that and you are one of my dearest friends. I have no better excuse and, speaking of that young lady, she is waiting for us in the large waiting room up front. Shall we?"
When they arrived at the front waiting area they came upon Lyri trying to reason with an eight or nine year old youngling who was shaking his head and wiping angrily at tears. Tika appeared to be guarding the entryway. "He reminds me of someone," Bant said pointedly. "Oh dear," muttered Obi-Wan.
"Kalin, you know you need to give that leg time to heal," Lyri was saying. "Jedi are tough; I don't need to stay here any more," the boy answered petulantly.
"I believe Jedi are also obedient, are they not young padawan?" The child gasped and looked up into the stern countenance of a Jedi Master. "Y-Yes, Master Obi-Wan," came the small voice. "Very well, then; I shall accompany you back to your bed." The little boy looked defeated. "Yes, Master," he said in an even smaller voice.
As the little one limped along beside him for a few steps, Obi-Wan leaned down and picked him up. "Let's give that leg a rest young Kalin. It needs to heal properly if you are to be one of my sparring partners when you get older." The little boy's eyes widened, "Really Master?"
As Obi-Wan rounded the corner to the children's ward, they heard him say, "Of course."
Lyri and Bant smiled at each other. "He's always been good with the younglings," Bant said softly. Lyri nodded, her hazel eyes shining with emotion she couldn't hide.
Obi-Wan strode back around the corner smiling to himself. "Everything seems to be in order now. I think we can safely…" he was saying, when he glanced up. "What in stars' name are you two grinning about?" Lyri and Bant quickly tried to cover the giggles that bubbled up and glanced down. When he saw them glance sidelong at each other, he huffed, "I know how to make each of you pay, you know!" They both did their best to look contrite.
Glancing at his chrono, he ushered them out of the Infirmary. When they came to the hallway leading to the large cafeteria, Lyri split off to take Tika home, telling them she'd catch up with them. "Don't tell any good stories until I come back!" she called over her shoulder as she and Tika trotted off.
They walked on in silence for a moment when Bant suddenly touched his arm to stop him. "That girl loves you, you know." He looked into her eyes for a long moment. "I know," he finally said. "Not to worry, old friend."
Deftly changing the subject, he told her he'd like to run a couple of ideas by her before presenting them to the Council. As they selected the items they wanted for dinner, Obi-Wan said, "I have been thinking about the number of young padawans who have been set adrift with the loss of their masters. I know we have had to knight many of them earlier than we ordinarily would have, but there are some who are truly not at the point yet where they can, in good conscience, be put in that position.
As they went to seat themselves at an old corner table that had been a favorite meeting place in their youth, he went on to explain his ideas about utilizing the masters who had also lost their padawans. He also had thought of perhaps utilizing some of the retired staff for interim training for the early junior padawans who would normally be newly apprenticed by this time if not for the decrease in the number of available masters. If those who had lost an apprentice could be matched with some of the senior padawans who had come back from battle without a master, their training could be continued until they were made ready for the trials. He had a great concern for them being knighted before they were actually ready.
Lyri had joined them quietly as Obi-Wan was explaining his ideas to Bant. "With the interim training for junior padawans, they could come to their new masters with a higher level of skill and more readily able to go into the field earlier. I have been looking into our numbers since Lyri made me aware, and I think we have to reorganize somewhat in order to continue effectively. We cannot let our promising padawans slip away for lack of someone to further train them."
When he had finished speaking, he reached for his tea. The beverage had grown cool by this time, causing him to grimace slightly and set it back down. Bant and Lyri were staring at him somewhat wide-eyed. He smiled tentatively and colored slightly. "I hope I have not rendered you speechless. I was really hoping for your input before presenting this idea to the Council tomorrow."
Bant cleared her throat. "Obi, the workings of that stellar mind of yours can still leave me in utter amazement. It seems you have most things covered, but need help with the details. I do have a couple of ideas." As Bant started helping to refine Obi-Wan's plan, Lyri slipped quietly away to fetch him another tea. She too was in awe of Obi-Wan's mind. Sometimes the workings of his mind reminded her of her father and she wished the two could have met. She could imagine the conversations they would have had.
When she slipped back into her seat and set the heated beverage in front of him, he smiled at her in delight. "Thank you very much, Lyri." He reached under the table and gave her hand a squeeze. "We have been waiting to hear your thoughts on this idea as well, Lyri."
"You want my thoughts?"
"Of course. You are a gifted empath, my dear. Having worked with several of these padawans and masters who have lost the being closest to them, you can give us a unique insight into how we should proceed with this." She looked at Bant who nodded encouragingly.
As she explained her observations to them, Lyri's heart swelled with love and pride. It was the first time she actually realized how highly this gifted; wise man at her side regarded her opinion. Far from being just polite and indulgent, he was listening intently to her thoughts and her tentative suggestions.
As they wound down and prepared to leave, Obi-Wan chuckled. "To end our evening on a lighter note, let me tell you about the time Garen, Reeft and I tricked Bant into sampling a bit of Yoda's infamous stew." The story indeed lightened their mood and as they parted ways for the evening, Obi-Wan was pleased to see a smile on his old friend's face. As if reading his thoughts, Lyri murmured, "We need to get her out of the Infirmary more often." He smiled, nodding at her.
Before they had reached the lift, Obi-Wan suddenly said, "Why don't we have a look at the lights tonight?" Lyri looked up at him and nodded. She always enjoyed the lights, but they seemed to hold a little more magic when he was with her. She knew their little balcony was on this floor and guessed that was where he was headed.
As he opened the door for her, she walked through to the railing. Though the little balcony was somewhat sheltered it offered a breathtaking view of the city and sky. As she heard Obi-Wan scraping something along the floor behind her she said, "Oh, the lights are so clear tonight! Just look at the colors! They…" She never got the chance to finish her thought as Obi-Wan turned her and caught her in a soul-searing kiss that literally caused her toes to curl, the heat of it shooting straight to her center. When he finally let her come up for breath she felt dazed. "Obi?" She said breathlessly. "I'm sorry, sweetheart; I was unable to last another minute without holding you. The lights are beautiful," he murmured as he glanced out over her head. Returning his dark indigo gaze to her face, he sighed contentedly. "But it is you that restore my heart and soul." The simple, heartfelt admission brought her to the point of tears. Though she was unable to speak, he understood and gently followed a tear down her cheek with his finger.
"Come sit with me, sweetheart. I want to touch you and feel your pleasure." Warm tingles ran the length of her little body. As he led her to one of three old weathered chairs, she noticed he had used another to block access to the balcony. As he lowered himself into the chair, he pulled her leggings and panties down to mid-calf. The cool night air moving over her bare skin caused her to shiver. Pulling her across his lap, he chuckled softly. "Next time I shall have to make sure you are wearing a skirt." She started to open her mouth to say something but he leaned in and caught her in another kiss as he pulled his cloak around them. As his tongue swirled into her mouth, she felt the warmth of his hand sliding under her tunic. Pushing her bra up he fondled her breasts sliding his thumb over first one and then the other nipple until he heard her whimpering. When she began feeling rushes of warmth through her body, he moved his hand down to her thighs and caressed them ever closer to her crease, until he ran his fingers lightly over the downy golden curls that covered it. The sensation caused her to squirm in his lap. "Oooh," she breathed plaintively.
Chuckling softly, he pulled back from another kiss to watch the sensations play over her face as he slipped a finger in to massage her nub. She bucked once and then began squirming continuously as he drew out his assault. "Oh Obi, I need...I need," she panted helplessly, unable to complete a coherent sentence. "Shhh, I know, sweetheart," he murmured and slipped two fingers inside to unerringly thrust over her sweet spot.
Lyri felt lost in sweet agonizing sensation as she reached for the edge. She was surrounded with the warm spicy scent of him as she nestled inside his cloak. Just when she thought she couldn't stand anymore of the exquisite sensations assailing her, he brought her over the edge with one agonizingly slow thrust to shatter her in a slow fall.
Watching her beautiful face as her release washed over her, Obi-Wan's heart swelled. He loved the soft groans that accompanied the clenching around his fingers. He continued to watch her as her breathing gradually slowed and her eyes opened in soft dreaminess accompanied by the dispersing echoes of her climax. Gradually removing his fingers, he held her close until she settled back into the present.
"Thank you," he said softly. Lyri blinked up at him dreamily. "But Obi, I didn't give you anything." A little smile curved his lips. "You have given me more than you will ever truly know, sweetheart."
As he helped her pull up her leggings and adjust her bra, he brushed his lips against her ear and whispered, "Besides...I have further plans for you tonight as soon as we get home." He had made peace with his unease of the previous night and it no longer haunted him. She smiled at him almost bashfully and his heart melted. "I love you, Obi." she whispered.