A/N: Meetings and Plans. Obi-Wan and Lyri both have plans they want to put into action, he for the Jedi and she, for the refugees. Lyri has some plans of her own - for Obi-Wan.
Disclaimer: All characters, arcs, and locations with the exception of my originals belong to George Lucas and Disney. Just flitting through the galaxy for awhile.
Feral Moon: Coruscant
Chapter 7
As the morning wore on, the Council's discussion continued to vacillate between the pros and cons of Obi-Wan's proposed plan. "It just isn't the way things are done; have always been done," said an elder Master who had temporarily taken the late Master Piell's place. Several of the masters were attending in hologram form from distant worlds as was the way now with even the High Council spread thinly. "We cannot just throw away the rules and traditions that have sustained us for generations."
"Agreed," said Obi-Wan patiently. "You cannot disagree, however, that we are spread extremely thin and our numbers have decreased very noticeably. We are pushing senior padawans into knighthood at a much earlier age than we would have before the losses of this terrible conflict. None of us ever thought to see the Republic so savagely divided by civil war and it is taking a terrible toll on the Order. I am only proposing that we take steps to preserve the Order until things normalize again."
The dissenting masters continued to grumble amongst themselves. Obi-Wan sighed; glad he had taken an extra day to prepare, and released the beginnings of frustration. "Masters, perhaps I should ask you this. Would you be willing to take time to talk to some of the wounded Jedi who have come back from battle having lost the other half of their mentor-apprentice relationships? It would give you better insight into the situation we are facing in increasing numbers. I have talked to a few of these young padawans who feel a bit lost as they are still in need of guidance and not quite ready to be on their own yet. If there are masters with a similar loss who are willing to take these young ones on, I think it is our obligation to help them find their way to each other."
"Once these senior padawans have been brought to readiness for knighthood, their second masters will be ready to take on younger padawans again. That is where the second half of this plan comes into play. We don't have the luxury of time for new master-padawan teams to spend on early training here in the Temple to prepare for off-planet missions. We are stretched much too thinly. I have spoken with several retired masters who are willing to take on this early training here in the Temple. They feel it is an active way for them to help preserve the Order. These younger padawans would then be ready to go into the field in their continued training when paired with a master."
"Please, Masters; know that I do not make these recommendations lightly. I am only looking for a way to keep from losing a number of promising young padawans who are concerned they won't be given a chance. Can we really afford to let them slip from our grasp? These are extraordinary times and I feel the Jedi Order may need to take extraordinary measures in order to survive. I only ask that you would give these measures your thought and consideration before making a final decision."
Obi-Wan listened as a few more members of the Council raised their concerns while others made arguments in agreement with his recommendations. Master Yoda and Master Windu found great merit in the plan as did Masters Ki-Adi-Mundi, Plo Koon, and Kit Fisto. There was still some marked division in the remaining Council, however, so Master Yoda finally rapped his gimer stick on the floor and called the meeting back to order. "Hold off on this decision for today we will. Do as Master Kenobi has suggested and visit with some of the wounded you will. Easier this may make your final decision. In order time to give to you, a decision we will call for in two days at the next full meeting."
As the meeting adjourned and the masters left the chamber for their various tasks, Yoda gazed at Obi-Wan who was turned slightly looking out upon the skyline of endless peaks and spires. The mid-morning light coming through the high windows seemed to cling to the younger man like a soft golden aura. It gave the little green master pause as some of Qui-Gon's observations regarding his last padawan and his connection with the Light drifted into his mind.
"Your thoughts young Obi-Wan?" the ancient Jedi asked softly as he approached. Obi-Wan sighed. "I hope I made a convincing enough argument, Master," he said. "I feel this is of great importance."
"A better argument you could not have made, Obi-Wan. Slower to embrace change some minds are. A little time they need and perhaps the wounded to visit as suggested. Faith you must have." He gently tapped the side of Obi-Wan's boot for emphasis on his last words.
"Yes, Master; I will remember that." His eyes warmed as he gazed down at the ancient master. Stooping to squeeze the little shoulder, he smiled. "Thank you, Master," he murmured. He started to turn to leave and suddenly paused, stroking his beard slowly. "Further thoughts you have Obi-Wan?" Lowering himself into a crouch in deference to the wizened little master, he said, "Yes Master. Another issue has been brought to the attention of Lyri and myself regarding the refugees that are pouring into the lower mid-levels of Coruscant. May we perhaps meet with you later to discuss this? It has to do with their access to medical care." Yoda blinked his large eyes. "Hear your concerns I will. Of great importance I sense this is to you and young Lyri. Yes; to my apartment come later this evening, Obi-Wan."
"I am grateful for your time, Master." Rising, Obi-Wan bowed once more and left the chamber, his earth-toned cloak fluttering behind him. He would comm Lyri about the meeting on his way to the war room.
"Do you think the mind healers can help, Bant? They have helped me a lot," said Lyri as she gazed into young Padawan Rollin's dim room. "I have to believe they can, if he's open to it," said Bant. "Would you mind if I take some extra time with him at the end of my shift, Bant? Tika and I feel very strongly about trying to help him." Lyri gazed in at the sleeping Padawan once more. They had been forced to sedate him yet again.
"You know...I feel Obi-Wan has a deep concern for Padawan Rollin, too. It's odd...Tika, Obi-Wan, and I are all drawn to him for some reason. Does that make sense, Bant?"
"The Force speaks to each of us with its own reasoning. Sometimes we just have to follow its urging and trust where it takes us, sweetie. I certainly would welcome any help with this young man. I feel I'm spread too thin to give each patient the extra time they need any more. I remember this young man from when he was an Initiate. Always a little on the sensitive side."
"Thank you Bant. We will do our best to help him."
"I know you will, Lyri." She studied the young girl for a moment. "I believe you truly have the heart and hands of a healer, sweetie." Lyri blushed slightly at the praise. She certainly hoped so, for it looked like her desire to help the refugees might be about to become a real project for her.
Tika, who had gone into the room to lay her head on the bed next to the young padawan for a few moments, padded out and joined Lyri to make their way to the younglings' wards. This was the place that renewed their spirits each day and they smiled at each other in anticipation. As they entered the first ward they were immediately awash with joy when the younglings surrounded them.
As Obi-Wan entered the war room, he dearly hoped to hear that Anakin had made contact. The longer he was out of contact, the more chance there was that something had gone amiss. The Council meeting had gone a little longer than expected this morning even though he'd known his idea would meet with some resistance.
As soon as he set foot in the room he was assailed by lead strategists from two separate battlefronts wanting his input. He sighed softly and put his own concerns aside for the moment to concentrate on the needs of his two subordinates. He looked across the room at Padawan Daen who looked like he wanted to say something, but, seeing Obi-Wan's situation just nodded at him and went back to his own task. Obi-Wan couldn't help feeling the young man looked concerned and a little cold spot formed in the pit of his stomach.
Putting his concerns aside for the moment he put his mind to helping refine a strategy for one Mid Rim world and helping the young strategist for one of the lesser battles in the Outer Rim to look at the situation from a different viewpoint, thus enabling the young Rodian to revamp his strategy for a more beneficial outcome on both sides. The younger being looked at him in awe. Always the teacher, Obi-Wan squeezed the young creature's shoulder and said, "Just remember there is always more than one way of looking at things but, when you make your decision, be decisive in following through."
"Thank you, Master Kenobi...General...sir. You've been most helpful." Obi-Wan smiled slightly and dipped his head in a slight bow. "You are very welcome," he said and headed for Padawan Daen's station.
As the young man saw him approaching he stood up and clasped his hands inside the sleeves of his robe to calm himself. "I sense you wish to speak with me, young Aayman." The young man cleared his throat and looked down a moment. "Not to worry Padawan; I have never been prone to blasting the messenger," he said reassuringly. The young man looked up and, seeing the half smile on the older man's face, was immediately more at ease.
"Yes, General. I wanted to bring you up to date on the Katasi-9 mission, but…"
"But you still have not heard from Commander Skywalker."
"Well, yes and no, General." Obi-Wan waited patiently while the younger man seemed to try to collect his thoughts. "You see, we had contact with Commander Skywalker at the beginning of his run toward the station. He reassured us that everything looked good for the run and that our troops still seemed to remain undetected. He was relatively certain the Sep fighter patrol patterns had remained the same and that there was a definite hole they could slip through to get to the relay station undetected. Everything seemed to be a go. They started their run at 0930 hours and were going to contact us like you directed as soon as they were safely inside. But one of the patrols had apparently been directed to change its pattern because when the Commander and his squadron were on their final approach to hook up with the station they came under fire. Commander Skywalker said as soon as they had dispatched the Sep fighters they were going to hook up and enter the station and he would make contact again as soon as they were safely inside. That was at 1020 hours. But General, if those fighters radioed in...well…"
Obi-Wan glanced at his chrono. Blast! It was already past 1120 hours. "You have not heard anything from the Commander or his squadron since?"
"No, General, but we caught a little of their chatter and it didn't seem to be going as easily as they'd thought. Maybe they had a slight change in plan." Obi-Wan looked at the blinking lights on the communication console and stroked his beard in thought. He was going to have to come up with a contingency plan in case they didn't hear anything further or got word that the situation had shifted dramatically. He too was concerned the fighters had been able to radio in before engaging.
"Looking back at the young man who was beginning to shift his weight from foot to foot a little nervously, he said, "You have done well Padawan Daen. Now if you could split your time between monitoring the comm for this mission and checking on holocartography for me, I would be most grateful. I shall be working on a plan to move forward with assistance if needed and I need you to let me know immediately of any changes."
"Yes, of course General. Whatever you need." Padawan Daen couldn't believe General Kenobi was placing so much trust in him. He would do his best to honor that. "Very good, Padawan...and thank you," said Obi-Wan, squeezing the young man's shoulder. The young would-be knight thought maybe he could understand a little why the General's subordinates all spoke so highly of the man. He treated them as though they each had importance to him. It was hard not to do your best for someone like that.
The rest of that shift passed with no word from Anakin and the squadron's signals kept flickering in and out on the holocartography map. Obi-Wan knew he would most likely be calling an emergency meeting of the Council in the morning to put his contingency plan into effect. Though he was still supposed to be on medical leave, he would insist on leading the troops himself. He felt his wound to be almost completely healed and he refused to send the men in without him. But he knew in his heart that the deepest reason of all was that this was Anakin. He loved the young man as one would a brother and would always try to be there in whatever way was possible to ensure his life. He couldn't imagine a life without his former padawan. Anakin may be the Chosen One, but he still needed his old master's help from time to time.
Checking one last time with Padawan Daen and encouraging the young man to get some rest, he put everything in its place at his workstation and left to pick up Lyri for last meal. He could discuss the upcoming meeting with her then. He dearly wanted this refugee project to work for her despite some misgivings regarding her safety. She was such a bright and determined little thing and he knew how strong she was, how able to handle difficult circumstances. Yet she had an innate gentleness and softness that remained despite everything she'd been through. She would be the perfect champion for the misplaced beings from this war.
When he inquired after her whereabouts upon entering the Infirmary, Dreela told him she was running a little late with the younglings. Not wanting to disrupt whatever she might be doing, he instructed Dreela just to let her know he was there when she had finished for the day. "I believe I will go check on young Rollin Tayert while I am here. He is still in the same room is he not?"
"Yes, Master Kenobi. I'm sorry to say he doesn't seem to be improving much."
"Thank you Dreela. I will take care with him." The young Twi'lek bowed and went back to her station. When Obi-Wan approached the injured padawan's room, he noted the lighting was still very dim. Hmmm. That was not encouraging. Opening the shade a bit to let in the light of early evening, he approached the young man's bed. The padawan's dark brown hair lay damply against his forehead and he stared listlessly at the ceiling, not seeming to take notice of Obi-Wan's presence. "You cannot shut light and life out forever young Rollin. At some point you must attempt to rejoin those who are reaching out to you."
"What would you know about it? You weren't there. You have no idea what it feels like to have that much of yourself ripped away and lost."
"I assure you I do, young one, though I was perhaps a couple of years older than you at the time." Suddenly registering the dulcet tone and the clipped accent of the man whose lectures on the art of negotiation he had attended, Rollin regretted his petulant words. Most padawans knew something of Master Obi-Wan Kenobi's history.
Finally turning to look into the man's eyes, he held his gaze for a few seconds then looked down. "I...I am truly sorry Master Kenobi. I know you of all people can...can understand. I just…."
"You needn't explain young Rollin; but I would ask that you be open enough to let my colleagues and myself try to help you through this. I can help you cope with the severing of your training bond if you will let me and I have a particularly dear friend who lost everything at a very young age who can help in many other ways. Do not close yourself away in a prison of your own making young one."
When the young padawan looked up again his eyes were glistening but Obi-Wan also detected the barest light of hope. He reached out to squeeze the young man's arm just as Lyri came to the entryway. She and Tika stood quietly and watched until Obi-Wan beckoned them into the room to formally introduce them to Padawan Rollin Tayert.
"This is the dear friend I was telling you about. Padawan Rollin Tayert, meet Lyri Starrider; and this is her close friend Tika. Lyri smiled, reaching out to squeeze his hand. "It's nice to meet you Padawan Tayert." The young man tried to change position and winced causing Tika to whine softly and lay her large head on the bed near him. A distinct feeling of concern bloomed in his mind and his eyes suddenly grew wide. "The canine is Force sensitive?" He asked incredulously. Obi-Wan and Lyri nodded. "Where?..." he said, looking first at Lyri, then Tika and finally Obi-Wan.
"We found each other in the wilds of Baltimn when my transport crashed," explained Obi-Wan. Lyri nodded. "If not for them I may never have made it back to Coruscant." The young man looked like he wanted to ask another question but, when Lyri saw him wince again and felt his discomfort, she told him there would be plenty of time for questions and that he needed to rest. When Lyri had made him comfortable again, they said their goodbyes and headed out of the room.
"That's the first time I've really seen him engage with anyone since he's been here," said Bant as she stood just outside the room in the hallway. "You two...three," she said thoughtfully as she glanced at Tika," give me hope for that young man's recovery." Lyri nodded as a smile lit her face.
"Well, I have a few more patients to attend to this evening so I had better be on my way. You two enjoy last-meal." Smiling warmly at them, she dipped her head in a slight bow and left.
Lyri and Obi-Wan first headed to the apartment to drop off Tika and feed her. Freshening up a little and quickly rebraiding her hair, Lyri smiled, "Do I look respectable enough for this important meeting, Obi?" She seemed a bit nervous. Taking her hand and leaning down to kiss her forehead, he said, "Not to worry, sweetheart. We can discuss what approach we want to take over last-meal and I can tell you some of what Yoda will probably be concerned with so you can have your answers ready." His eyes warmed. "You look perfectly lovely sweetheart." His compliments always brought a blush to her cheeks.
When they'd chosen their food and settled in at a corner table out of the main bustle and clatter of the busy cafeteria, Lyri asked Obi-Wan a few questions as to what he thought Yoda's biggest concerns would be regarding this type of undertaking. She was a bit concerned about how the Council would react as a whole as she had sensed Obi-Wan's frustration with them at times.
"Lyri, I have every confidence that you can plan and carry this project out. All we really need to do is convince Yoda of its merits. He can be very persuasive with the Council and you already know you have my backing. I know what that quick mind, big heart, and determination of yours can do. Have confidence in your abilities sweetheart. You will be fine."
When Obi-Wan looked up from sipping his tea, she had a strange look on her face and her eyes were shimmering. "Lyri, sweetheart...are you alright?" She looked so small and vulnerable in that moment it called to his protective instincts. He watched her swallow a couple of times as she tried to compose herself again.
"Y-Yes, Obi. It's just...I hadn't realized how much faith you really had in me to be able to put something like this together. It means so much to know you really believe in me."
He looked into her eyes searchingly. Dear Force! She really hadn't known. Could he have been that preoccupied? Then another realization came to him. He had fallen back into an old training pattern he'd had to use with Anakin to curb the young man's arrogance. He hadn't even realized it until now. The combination of those two things and perhaps the small part of him that still saw her as a complete innocent and was always concerned for her safety had caused her to be somewhat insecure regarding his assessment of her abilities. This would never do.
"Lyri, my dear, I am so sorry. I have believed in you and been amazed at your abilities ever since I realized what it must have taken to survive in the wilderness from such a young age. Ever since I saw a little bit of a girl take down a ravenous feline with two arrows before I had even ignited my lightsaber. You have adapted your talents and abilities to a completely foreign environment far better than most of the beings I know would have. Please, sweetheart, do not ever doubt my belief in your abilities. I find myself repeatedly astonished at what you are able to achieve." She looked into his intense blue eyes and could see the sincerity of his words. The knowledge that the man she loved believed in her so deeply buoyed her heart and her spirits like nothing else. The smile that lit her face melted Obi-Wan's heart.
"Let's go, Obi. We don't want to keep Master Yoda waiting."
"I daresay not," he chuckled.
Arriving at the little Master's apartment right on time, they were ushered into his meditation chamber and offered some freshly brewed tea that was calming and seemed to surround them with warmth. After getting them settled, Yoda sat cross-legged on his cushion and turned his penetrating gaze on Lyri. He blinked his large eyes. "Tells me, Master Kenobi does, that informed you have been of a growing need amongst the refugee population pouring into Coruscant." He waited expectantly.
Well, that was right to the point. Lyri smiled inside. "Yes, Master Yoda; the numbers have increased greatly and are growing every week. The scramble to accommodate them is falling behind and they are being crammed into tighter quarters as a result. As I'm sure you know, that results in its own set of problems, especially the spread of illness and disease. Master Eerin seems to think I have some strengths in the healing arts and Obi-Wan's friend Dexter says there is a growing need. Illness is increasing daily, especially among the younglings and the elderly. I was thinking I could help."
"No healers are there to attend to them, young Lyri? Clinics there have been on those levels of Coruscant for some time now."
"No Master Yoda. The Republic has taken every last healer they can find on any of those levels for the war effort. The only remaining healers are on the upper levels catering to the wealthy and influential. I know this because I looked into it on my own after Dex told us."
"Wise you are to do your own research, young one." Looking at Obi-Wan, Yoda sighed and rubbed his chin. "Troubling this is Obi-Wan. Aware I should have been of these things in my meditation. Affects the very stability of the Republic this type of problem does. A basic need healing is among all beings. Understand why the Chancellor has allowed this to happen I do not."
"Yes, and the Jedi used to have time to look into such inconsistencies in the needs of the Republic's citizens. Things seem to be more and more out of balance. It makes me uneasy as well."
Lyri cleared her throat. She needed to get this meeting back to its original intent. "That is why it is even more important I try to do something to help," she said pointedly. They both turned their full attention on her and she swallowed a little nervously. A tiny smile appeared on Obi-Wan's face and he nodded at her encouragingly.
"I would like to put a plan together to be able to offer these refugees some medical care, Master Yoda, since they can no longer rely on the Republic to do so. I believe since I am under the protection of the Jedi and live at the Temple I can't be arbitrarily taken away and sent to the battlefields like their other healers were. Am I right in this assessment?"
"Right you are, young Lyri. A ward of Master Obi-Wan's you are and under the protection of the Jedi. Cannot commission you for anything separate, the Chancellor or the Senate. Huh-hmmm, a somewhat delicate matter this is, however. Personnel and finances we do not have for such an undertaking. Political ramifications there also may be. Unclear many things are with the Chancellor and the Senate at present. For these reasons difficult it may be to convince the Council. Since under our protection you are, by their ruling you must abide." Seeing the crestfallen look on her face, he climbed down from his cushion and went over to her.
"Master Yoda?" she said softly. Patting her hand, he looked up at her.
"A plan...yes, a solid plan I need from you, young one. Something to address these concerns in Council; their arguments to counter and their concerns to allay. Backing of some sort, perhaps. Do this for me are you able to young one?" She nodded and he was glad to see the spark return to her eyes. "Bring this preliminary plan to me when completed you will and present it I will to Council." As Yoda ambled back to his cushion, Lyri and Obi-Wan grinned at each other.
"Now, about your safety, young one…" the little master went on. Once that topic had been addressed the meeting wound down and, thanking Yoda for his time, Lyri and Obi-Wan traversed the quiet halls toward the lifts.
As they walked back to the apartment, Lyri was bubbling over with excitement about her refugee project. Oh she knew it would take a lot of planning and hard work, but she also knew she could make it happen. Obi-Wan and Yoda had voiced some concerns over her safety to which she looked them in the eyes and said, "All the more need for my Bo staff training to commence, and you know I'm not going to put myself in danger needlessly." Obi-Wan's eyebrows had shot up and he'd looked like he wanted to say something but thought better of it. He was familiar with that determined look in her eyes. "Very well, Lyri, I shall schedule a room for us for tomorrow evening." When she caught a glimpse of Yoda out of the corner of her eye she noticed his eyes were twinkling and he had the tiniest little smile on his ancient face. "Besides, Obi-Wan, you know Dex will be somewhere nearby." He'd looked at her for a long moment and conceded. But since they'd started walking she had tried to bounce a couple of ideas off him and, though he'd answered her, he'd seemed distracted.
She looked at him speculatively. Making a decision, she brushed his mind ever so slightly. With her attuned empathic sense she immediately picked up on both frustration and concern. There was also a mild tumult of emotions warring with each other. She already knew he was frustrated with the slowness of the Council to embrace any kind of change no matter how vital it might be for he had told her something of how the meeting had gone. If she had to guess, the growing concern she could feel most likely had to do with Anakin's lack of communication for she had a nagging concern as well. She marveled at how calm Obi-Wan appeared on the outside. She also realized that she never would have been able to get past his shields if he didn't trust her deeply, for he guarded his private thoughts with great care. The realization that he put that much trust in her swelled her heart and she felt the prickle of tears at the backs of her eyes.
Obi-Wan suddenly realized that Lyri had gone very quiet as she walked beside him. She had been running ideas by him earlier in her excitement over the prospect of helping the refugees, but he had been partially distracted by his own thoughts. Had he failed to answer her and perhaps dampened her enthusiasm or led her to believe that Yoda might not be completely convinced of the idea's merits? Oh dear.
"Sweetheart are you alright? I thought the meeting with Yoda went very well. I know the plan you create will be very thorough. I am sure with his backing and the fact that you wouldn't be using Temple resources we should have little problem convincing the Council." He stopped and took her hand. Looking up at him, she could only smile a little and nod. The concern for her that shadowed his intense blue eyes when she knew how many other concerns weighed him down, warmed her heart and made her long to smooth the worry from his brow. He himself needed care and he didn't think to seek it. It was then a little idea started to warm her mind. Tugging on his hand she said, "Let's go home, Obi."
When they had gone inside and secured the entryway, Obi-Wan pulled her to him and held her tightly for several long moments Held securely against his chest; she could hear the steady beat of his heart and feel the rhythm of his breathing. It comforted her in a way nothing ever had. But she knew he needed her comfort tonight. She needed to take him away from all the concerns crowding in on him. She needed to lighten his heart and ease the tension she could feel in his muscles. Leaning back, she smiled up at him impishly. Looking down at her, he raised his eyebrows and a little smile curved his lips. "What is skipping across that bright mind of yours this evening?" he said in a somewhat bemused tone.
"Well...I was wondering if you could help me with something, Obi."
"Of course sweet girl; you have only to ask."
"Okay. You see, Bant and I were thinking of trying this new type of massage out on certain of the patients. It is supposed to be highly beneficial and bring about deep relaxation which will, in turn, enhance other therapies. But, well...I sort of need a test subject to practice on." She looked up at him coyly. His eyes began to take on that merry twinkle she was hoping for.
"Ah, and you were hoping perhaps I might be that test subject," he chuckled. She nodded hopefully. "Very well, my dear. I certainly would not want to stand in the way of hastening patient recovery. What do you need me to do?"
"You would need to be lying down; of course...we can just use your bed. Also, you would need to remove your boots, belt, tunics and trousers."
"Alright. I shall go get ready to assume the role of patient," he chuckled and headed to the bedroom.
"I'll go get my things and be there in a few minutes," she called after him, hurrying to the spare room. A little thrill of excitement ran through her and tingles warmed her body as she thought about what she wanted the massage to lead into. Though she had initiated kissing at times, she had never tried initiating anything further as she was a little unsure how to proceed. But she wanted to give him pleasure and let him get lost in it; give to him the way he gave to her. She wanted to explore his body to find the special little spots that made him come undone. She wanted to see him lost in bliss the way she became lost through his knowing sensual touch. Her excitement building, she looked through her drawers for just the right thing for tonight. Picking out a pretty satin teddi the deep blue of the little star flowers on her moon, she smiled. It was somewhat revealing, but had little bits of ecru lace at strategic spots to add just a hint of mystery. She knew how he loved the color blue. Smiling, she quickly got out of all her clothing and stepped into the little teddi, pulling the satin straps up over her shoulders. It showed off her petite little figure perfectly. Dabbing on a little lavenderium oil and freeing her hair to give it a quick brush, she picked up a little bottle of warming oil and a special soft textured glove for parts of the massage and padded off toward the bedroom.
Lying on his side in only a pair of knit boxers, Obi-Wan propped himself up on one elbow, his head resting against his hand, and watched the entryway while his thoughts lit on one concern and then another. But, when he saw Lyri come through the entryway in her little satin teddi, his thoughts scattered like the little birds that rode the wind on Ansion. He had dimmed the lighting to be more relaxed, but it was still enough to shimmer over the deep blue satin and softly brighten the gold highlights in her hair as it fell in loose curls around her. As he let his eyes travel from her shapely legs over the softly rounded curves of her hips and the lovely roundness of her breasts, he lingered for a moment on the fullness of her lips and then was caught in the depths of her wide hazel eyes. It almost took his breath away.
"Is my patient ready for his massage?" she said with a suddenly impish grin. Her eyes traveled involuntarily to the clingy knit boxer shorts which didn't do a lot to hide his attributes. When he didn't answer right away she bit her lower lip and looked a little uncertain. Clearing his throat, he said, "Oh quite. I have heard it is very therapeutic." His voice was becoming a bit husky. Suddenly gracing her with one of those rakish grins, he said, "I hope that is not what you are wearing to treat patients in the Infirmary, my dear. Although it might be a way to ensure they stay long enough to suit Bant's purposes." She couldn't help but giggle. "No, Obi. This attire is only for my most private patients."
"Hmmm...there had better be only one of those if they don't want to deal with me, my dear girl," he said, cocking an eyebrow at her. Leaning her head to one side as though in thought, she finally sighed. "Oh, very well; I'll tell the others to go home!" Obi-Wan couldn't help but laugh at the pout that had formed on her pretty little face. She finally dissolved into laughter as well.
"Alright, General, turn over on your stomach now and we'll begin," she said in a more serious tone. Grinning at the command in her sweet voice, he nevertheless complied. Straddling his back and resting on her knees, Lyri uncapped the little bottle of oil and poured a little into one palm. Recapping the bottle, she laid it aside, rubbed her palms together and began kneading his tight shoulder muscles. Though her touch was gentle, he was surprised at the strength in those delicate little hands. He thought for perhaps the hundredth time how she never ceased to catch him off guard and amaze him yet again. As she continued to knead, the oil added a mild warmth that seeped pleasantly into his taut muscles and he groaned softly a few times as they began to loosen. She noticed as she worked that a particular little spot where his neck began its curve into his shoulder, just above his collarbone, seemed more sensitive and the sound of his groan changed as a tiny shiver ran the length of his body. Her lips curved into a smile. She would have to remember that particular spot.
As she continued to massage, she scooted down to rest very lightly on his buttocks. Letting her eyes rove appreciatively over the muscles of his back and broad shoulders, now with a soft sheen from the warming oil, she felt a tiny flutter awaken in her abdomen and sighed softly. "Is everything alright, sweetheart? If you are growing tired…" She grinned. "Oh no...just admiring the view, Obi." She heard a muffled chuckle.
Working the muscles of his back and along his sides, she memorized each scar she came across and wondered what had brought it to him. She found it curious to realize that, far from marring him, they only added to his rugged beauty. They were a part of the story of his life lived as a Jedi. She traced her fingers over the remnants of the last one he had received, almost healed now, and thought of the gentle heart she knew beat within this man who, by all accounts, was a devastating warrior. She was overcome for just a moment and a couple of tears splashed onto his back before she could wipe them away. He became very still. She felt a gentle brush of her mind and heard a soft, "It's alright sweetheart. I'm alright." Pulling herself together she gave her head a small shake whispering, "I know, Obi." She thought it all the more reason to bring him any pleasure she could.
Resuming her deep kneading of his muscles the warm tingles came back to her full force and, as she scooted down to his well-muscled thighs and looked at the knit boxers, the impish grin returned. "Hmmm, this won't quite do. Mmm...if you don't mind, I am going to have to remove these to do this properly." She thought she heard something that sounded like a very soft growl. "Do what you must, my dear." She could swear she heard a grin. Lifting herself off him for a moment, she carefully slid the boxers over his buttocks and down his legs, tossing them toward the easy chair. As she began massaging his buttocks and drew closer to his thighs, she heard his breathing start to change a little and his groans take on a slightly needy edge. Biting her lower lip, she reached down between his muscular thighs and stroked his testes gently, then a little more firmly until she heard him groan and say, "Mmm...Stars, Lyri, if you don't stop that I shall have to turn over and rip that pretty blue teddi right off of you!"
"Oh no," she giggled, "I am the therapist here; you are the patient. You need to cooperate with your treatment." She added a little firmness to her voice, as she massaged his thighs and calves. "Now be good and do as I say."
"Okay, General, turn over; time to do the front." She stood at the side of the bed and waited. As he finally maneuvered into a comfortable position on his back, she glanced momentarily at his groin and noticed he had become partially aroused. She bit her lip with a little grin. That would suit her purposes just fine. A little shiver of anticipation ran through her. When she turned her gaze back to his face he was watching her with slight amusement. "Perhaps you had better remove that lovely little teddi," he said, his eyes beginning to darken to that midnight blue that accompanied his desire. "Especially if you plan on continuing with that warming oil." He watched as she swallowed and her lips parted slightly. At a loss for words for a moment, she nodded slowly and began gradually inching the blue satin down her body. She felt a little thrill as she saw his eyes begin to smolder and realized she had the power to fan the flame.
Regaining her composure, she stepped out of her teddi which had pooled at her feet, tilted her head and put her hands on her hips. "I know that look, General. But you are my patient and you need to let me perform the therapy I was commissioned for." He had no idea how badly she wanted to kiss him right then, but she didn't want to chance losing the upper hand and she wanted this time to be just for him. When he raised his eyebrows, she said, "I mean it, General!" She put as much command as she could into her voice. Obi-Wan grinned at her. Oh, he was enjoying this. "Not to worry, my dear. I shall...comply...as best I can."
Climbing carefully onto the bed and straddling Obi-Wan at the waist with her weight resting on her knees once again., she poured another tiny amount of oil into her palm and leaned forward to massage his chest and shoulders. As she worked her now quite uncovered breasts moved with her in a way that seemed to mesmerize Obi-Wan for a few long moments. When he finally tore his eyes away to look up at her face, her once again impish grin and the light dancing in her eyes drew an appreciative smile from him. Clearing his throat, he said, "Have you any idea how hard it is for me not to take you in my arms right now and ravish you?" The low, husky tone of his voice betrayed the depth of his desire. She smiled softly at him and nodded slowly before the little imp returned. "I do thank you in advance for complying with your therapy until completion, General." He made a silent vow to himself that he would have her gasping helplessly later. No sooner had that thought entered his head when she scooted forward and flicked her tongue out at the sensitive little spot above his collarbone that sent a delicious shiver through his body. She kissed and nipped until he groaned helplessly. "Oh, stars, Lyri how did you….?" He seemed unable to finish his thought and let out a shuddering sigh as she moved down and flicked her tongue over his nipples. The sensations running through his body began to take focus on one particular area and Lyri seemed delighted, the little minx. Her soft lips explored the front lot him thoroughly sending little rushes of heat through him and pulling him deeper and deeper.
Scooting down to carefully straddle his well-muscled thighs she looked up at him and the impish grin grew a little wicked for such a sweet and innocent face. She brushed over his manhood which was almost completely at attention and elicited another groan and half growl from him. He watched her through half closed eyes. Oh stars! It suddenly dawned on him what she probably had in mind to massage next. He hadn't long to wait to find out if he was right in his assumption. As her hand closed over his shaft and started tentatively stroking with just a hint of warmth from the oil, he bucked into it and gasped. As she smiled and picked up her pace a little, she noticed he had grasped the coverlet beneath him in his clenched fists. "Does that feel good, Obi? I need you to tell me if I'm getting this right," she asked, a slight hesitation in her voice. She brought her hand up and stroked her thumb over that spot just beneath the head of his shaft and he quivered uncontrollably.
As she rubbed lightly over the moisture at his tip and her soft little hand resumed stroking the length of his shaft with an added twist to the stroke he could feel himself beginning to drown in such a heightened level of pleasure he was barely able to hang on to his control. "Oooh...mmm...stars...unnngh...and plan...planets...yesss," he groaned. Oh Force, that little twist of her wrist! She smiled and kept up her assault, backing off a couple of times just to tease him the way he always teased her. He threw his head back into the pillow and gritted his teeth. "Force, Lyri...please," he hissed. He could feel the warmth of her other hand gently kneading his testes now, adding another level of sensation. She made certain to brush over that spot below the head of his shaft on each upswing now and he became completely lost in some endless haze of pleasure and the sweet scent of her lavenderium. He moaned deeply and finally started bucking uncontrollably, so close to the edge he had no choice but to let go and tumble over, calling her name. His release washed over him in endless waves until he laid there blissful and spent.
When she felt the pulsing finally start to subside, she slowly removed her hand from the base of his softening shaft. Climbing carefully over him she grabbed the boxers she had flung away and gingerly cleaned him up. Using the other side to clean herself up, she went to the door and tossed them into the laundry bin. As she quietly approached the bed again, she stood and watched the peaceful expression and gentle upturn of his lips. His long lashes brushed his cheeks like the russet feathers of a bird at evening rest. Her heart swelled so it almost hurt with the thought she could bring this amount of happiness and peace to him. Almost as though he'd heard her reflections he murmured, "Only one thing would make it better sweet girl." She wondered what it was she might have missed in pleasuring him. As though he'd read her thoughts he reached for her and pulled her onto the bed to hold tightly against him. Turning to gently kiss her temple he murmured, "No sweetheart, your...therapy... was perfect. I only meant that I needed you here in my arms." She smiled and snuggled against him, glad for the warmth that always seemed a part of him. Sighing in contentment, he traced lazy circles over her buttock and thigh. Just as she was about to surrender to sleep he whispered, "I do plan on returning the favor, sweetheart. It is a long while till morning and I would very much like to keep my thoughts with you tonight."