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Author	Topic: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's) Updated 5/18
azizah Registered: Sep '06	Date Posted: 7/13/07 12:51pm Subject: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's) Updated 5/18 - Date Edited: 5/18 8:59pm (20 edits total) Edited By: azizah
	Title: One Path Author: azizah Timeframe: JA Genre: drama Characters: Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, OC’s Summary: Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan come to terms with their relationship after Melida/Daan. Notes: This was my first piece of fanfiction, started a few years ago and never finished. I am determined to go back and finish it and have just drafted the last few missing chapters. I am posting it to motivate me. Fanfiction was a new experience for me when I started this and in re-reading there are parts that make me cringe but parts I still enjoy, so hopefully you will too. I apologize for the title but I was new and did not realize how many Path’s there were, and you can’t really rename your children (or can you?) . And my deepest thanks to Shanobi, who beta’d this story. She is talented and gracious and I know will stick with me to the end even though she has run off to write in other fandoms. Chapter 1 The Coruscant sky was dull gray, softened slightly by rays of light filtering through the clouds from the dying sunset. Lying on his back on the rooftop Obi-Wan Kenobi could just see the last of bit of orange that lit the horizon. He closed his eyes briefly and let out a deep breath, trying unsuccessfully to let go of his frustration. The day was finally over. Laughter filled the air, loud deep laughter. Obi-Wan opened his eyes and sat up quickly. He grasped the mammoth seven fingered hand extended toward him. “Well done, Obi-Wan. Excellent. Excellent,” boomed the voice of Jedi Knight Calvara Putan. He laughed again as he pulled Obi-Wan to his feet, a deep rolling laugh that shook his entire frame. And that was saying something. Putan was an enormous being. He resembled a human, closer to two humans if you considered his girth. He had a round face and deep brown eyes which held a constant gleam of amusement. Beside him his slight padawan, Tilla Tan chuckled softly. Tilla was a Tanranite, a small being with light orange skin and a gentle face. Obi-Wan did not feel as if his performance had been excellent. He rubbed his shoulder where he had fallen and shook his head slightly to loosen his stiff neck. He had spent the afternoon practicing the “To Contemplate the Sky” kata under the instruction of Master Putan on a little used rooftop deck of the Jedi Temple. As a break from the strenuous lesson, Calvara suggested they try their hand at Bocho, an ancient battle art from his home planet. Bocho consisted primarily of swinging a large stick at your opponent while dodging returning blows or blocking them with your own Bocho stick. It had started well enough. Obi-Wan had done well with the unfamiliar kata. He had worked hard and had received high praise from Calvara. Just when he had decided that he had mastered the exercise, he felt rather than saw a presence in the doorway to the rooftop. It was Obi-Wan’s former master, Qui-Gon Jinn. Qui-Gon did not announce his arrival, but settled himself against the wall in the shadow of the door to observe. Calvara and Tilla seemed oblivious to his presence so Obi-Wan did not acknowledge Qui-Gon and tried to continue with the work out. But he had lost his focus. Moves he had mastered minutes before now proved elusive. But Calvara was not a demanding master, preferring to encourage rather than correct so he seemed not to notice Obi-Wan’s distraction and continued to praise his performance. At the conclusion of the lesson Calvara had brought out the Bocho. After watching Calvara and Tilla handle the Bocho sticks for several turns Obi-Wan had taken a turn against Calvara. The large jedi was deceptively quick but Obi-Wan was just as quick and was able to use his skill at leaps and turns to evade Calvara’s wide swings with the Bocho. But Calvara Putin was a Jedi knight and he quickly adjusted to Obi-Wan’s strategy, caught him in a turn and swept his feet out from under him. Calvara’s booming laugher filled the open air as he landed Obi-Wan on his back in three successive attempts. Calvara was pulling Obi-Wan to his feet for the third time when Qui-Gon approached. The Jedi master, Qui-Gon Jinn, was tall for a human. He was slightly taller even than Calvara, although not so impressive in girth. Qui-Gon wore the traditional brown robes of a Jedi and his long hair was pulled back in a pony tail. His face was serious and somewhat stern, but his eyes though penetrating held a gentle light. “Ah, Master Jinn, welcome! A marvelous performance don’t you agree? We are very blessed with such talent in our young ones.” Calvara did not wait for Qui Gon to respond but continued on, “We were just about to go inside to sample my mavaberry tart. You will join us of course? My padawan, Tilla here, prefers the open sky as is the custom of the Tan, but even he will bear a roof over his head for one of my tarts.” He pounded Tilla on the back, who was apparently used to the gesture as he braced himself and looked up fondly at his enormous master. Qui-Gon bowed his head slightly to Calvara, “Thank you, but another time. Obi-Wan and I will stay a while longer yet.” Obi-Wan swallowed his disappointment, the entire Temple had talked of Calvara’s culinary skills, but he carefully kept his face expressionless. Tilla started to protest, but his master laid a hand on his shoulder. “Come padawan, I am sure that Master Qui-Gon wishes to see for himself the excellent progress Obi-Wan has made.” He knows well enough the progress I’ve made, Obi-Wan thought wryly, as he has been watching for well over an hour. Obi-Wan bowed his thanks and the Jedi master and his padawan left the rooftop. He could hear Calvara’s laughter floating up the stairwell and vaguely wondered what it would be like to have a master who laughed all of the time. He turned to face Qui-Gon, mentally preparing himself for what he knew was coming. Qui-Gon returned his gaze for a moment then turned to study the fast darkening sky without saying a word. Obi-Wan waited him out. He had a thousand questions, he wanted some sort of explanation, but he had also vowed that he would be patient and would trust and follow the Force. At last Qui-Gon turned, “Shall we begin?” It was not really a question. Obi-Wan bit back his frustration, “Yes, Master.” They started the kata over. They would be here for many hours, late into the night as they had been most nights since they had returned from their mission on Telos, over a month ago. Obi-Wan carefully positioned his feet and balanced squatting on his heals, preparing for the first move of the kata. He straightened his back, tilted his face upward, and with a deep exhaling breath tried to center himself in the moment. Feel don’t think. Forget the past, let go of the future and live in the moment, a familiar exercise for every young Jedi student. But tonight it was not working, tonight the past kept creeping in. He risked a sideways glance at Qui-Gon. Qui-Gon caught the look and held up his index finger drawing Obi-Wan’s attention forward and with a touch corrected the position of Obi-Wan’s shoulders. The Jedi master’s eyes were gentle, but his expression was grave. Obi-Wan swallowed and tried once again to breathe away his anxiety. I am a Jedi, I can do this. He repeated the words several times in his head, but in his heart the doubt remained. He had once been filled with such certainty, but all of that was gone now. He had thought he knew what it was to be a Jedi and that he would never stray from the true path. But he had strayed, he had gone hopelessly off course, and here he was, no longer a padawan. Still a Jedi, maybe, if he didn’t screw up again. As far as the council was concerned he was still on probation, he had yet to prove himself worthy of being a Jedi. Obi-Wan had thought that after Telos things would be alright. On Telos, Qui-Gon had forgiven him, had agreed to take him back. But something had changed in that terrible place, in those moments by the acid pit, where they had watched Xanatos die. Although Qui-Gon had told Obi-Wan otherwise, Xanantos’ death hung like a shadow about him. The death of Qui-Gon’s former apprentice had somehow changed everything. Oh, Qui-Gon was once again his teacher, but not as he had been before. They worked hard. There were long days of study and endless hours of training, when it seemed to Obi-Wan that nothing he did would ever satisfy the man. Try as he might, Obi-Wan could sense nothing beyond the look of grim determination that had become his former master’s constant expression. Each night as Obi-Wan would throw himself onto his sleep, couch emotionally drained and physically exhausted, he would remind himself that this was what he had wanted. To be Qui-Gon’s padawan again. It was not the physical demand of the endless practice sessions that wore at him, he was not afraid of hard work. It was the uncertainty. He did not know the purpose or drive behind Qui-Gon’s incessant training. Qui-Gon had never been an easy master, but it had never been like this. Qui-Gon had accepted Obi-Wan again, he had told him so and Obi-Wan believed him. He and Qui-Gon had come to an understanding despite the Council’s hesitation. But Obi-Wan sensed an uneasiness in Qui-Gon that he did not understand and though he would not admit it even to himself, deep inside it filled him with dread. So Obi-Wan persevered, he followed without question as a padawan should. He did as he was asked without complaint. When he thought he had reached his limit he reached deep inside himself and found a reserve of energy and drive that he never knew he possessed. The work was not always without reward. Qui-Gon was a good teacher. He was patient and seemingly tireless. Sometimes late at night when Obi-Wan could barely keep his eyes open he wondered if the Jedi master would ever tire. But there were also moments of quiet satisfaction. His own joy when he knew he had finally perfected a movement after hours of trying. His satisfaction when he kept his focus despite his exhaustion and earned Qui-Gon’s silent approval. Moments with Qui-Gon’s hand on his shoulder when they connected with a common sense of purpose and understanding and the doubt in Obi-Wan’s heart disappeared. Yet in the morning when he woke with sore muscles and an aching head the nagging doubt returned.
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Ganki Registered: Jan '02	Date Posted: 7/13/07 4:30pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	First!? Interesting, very interesting. Poor Obi-Wan trying so hard to please his master however one cannot go on at the pace forever. I hope nothing bad happens to Obi, but I have feeling I may be wrong in my hopes LOL! Very good at writing the relationship between the two through Obis POV, I can sense the underlining feelings and I think a bit of insecurity shown in only his want to please his master. GAH hugs her Obi Don’t worry I lu~v you just the way you are I cannot wait for more and I hope more comes soon. Oh and if you have a PM list can you add me to it pwease, thankie! -----signature----- “The act of putting pen to paper encourages pause for thought, this in turn makes us think more deeply about life, which helps us regain our equilibrium.” ~Norbet Platt
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dianethx Registered: Mar '02	Date Posted: 7/13/07 5:48pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	One path is a perfectly acceptable title, especially since it seems to speak of Obi-Wan's path forward. I really liked your OCs. I could picture them very clearly. What a contrast between the laughing Master and Qui-Gon. I liked, too, the way you showed Obi-Wan's uncertainty and his doubts. Great job. Please put me on your PM list if you have one. -----signature----- Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 9/22/08 Fragments of Illusion- http://boards.theforce.net/bts/b10475/28456473 updated 11/20/08 jedidas3's Master At last - Hope for our country
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ClaudiaR Registered: Jun '07	Date Posted: 7/13/07 8:28pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	If even part of this chapter was truly from your first fanfiction effort then I feel woefully inadequate! I love this, and the premise as well, I have always wondered how they became an even better team afterwards... I love it! and I want to see more so please as soon as you post the next part PM me -----signature----- LURK&STALK It takes a specialist to do it right " Getting to stalk around importantly was quickly becoming the best part of pretending to be a Sith. " Obi-Wan in Deptions by Amrita_Glittersong
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Valairy_Scot Title: PT Rewrite Winner Registered: Sep '05	Date Posted: 7/13/07 9:21pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	Excellent, and I love your OC's. I like Obi-Wan's uncertainty, and Qui's gentleness rather than disapproval, but it's interesting how he keeps his thoughts to himself. Please add me to the PM list, too. -----signature----- http://boards.theforce.net/fan_fiction_resource/b10304/25405090/p3/?52 Prolific Author thread: list & links there. Muse fueled by coffee. Often AWOL despite frequent sipping. Writes on inspiration, not a schedule. Proud master of several padawans
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SakuraTsukikage Registered: Oct '05	Date Posted: 7/13/07 10:22pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	Wow, great job. This feels very accurate to me, very in-character. I can totally see this happening. Also, I really like your writing style. It seems to flow very well, understated but lyrical. Very good job indeed! -----signature----- Never tell me the odds. Rebellion Rising-- http://boards.theforce.net/Message.aspx?topic=26988897&brd=10476 Proud Master to bi0nic and LadyLunas
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Gkilkenny Registered: Mar '04	Date Posted: 7/13/07 10:34pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	Very interesting beginning. I love the start, Obi-Wan's uncertainity shows through. Please add me to you PM list. -----signature----- Padawan to p_stotts Peace over anger - honour over hate - Strength over fear. Links to Stories in my Bio. Obi-Wan forever.
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Luminara_Kenobi Registered: Sep '06	Date Posted: 7/14/07 2:36pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	Oh, my poor Obi...that doubting complex'll get you every time . Since this is mostly already written, does that mean there will be regular updates? Like maybe daily?! Please put me on the pm list. -----signature----- Oafie & Lulu Long Live the original JA series-- why did it go out of print?! Long Live Freedom of Speech!!! Constantly thinking of new and innovative ways to shave Obi-Wan I miss you, too.
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azizah Registered: Sep '06	Date Posted: 7/14/07 4:24pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	Ganki – I would never let anything bad happen to Obi-Wan, at least not for too long. I will be happy to send you a PM with updates. Dainethx – Thanks for reading. This one is full of uncertainty and doubt. I love these two, but never enough to make it easy on them. ClaudiaR – Thanks for reading Valairy_Scot – Thank you and a PM is on its way. SakuraTsukikage- Thank you, I really appreciate the comments. Gkilkenny – Thanks, more uncertainty to come. Luminara_Kenobi – Daily updates. Uh, ok. Well just this once. I can’t have this catching up with me. I have about 24 chapters done and a few more in draft, so hopefully that will buy me some time. Thanks for reading.
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azizah Registered: Sep '06	Date Posted: 7/14/07 4:36pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	Chapter 2 This was one of those mornings. Obi-Wan had returned to his quarters in the early morning hours and had thrown himself down on his sleep couch fully clothed. He had meant to rest for just a few minutes before he undressed. It really seemed he had only just shut his eyes when he was awoken by the sound the door chime. He blinked for a moment, disoriented. The chime sounded again. He quickly pushed himself up and hurried to the door, ignoring the stiff ache of his muscles. He knew before he opened the door that it was Qui-Gon. “Good Morning, Obi-Wan. I trust you slept well.” Qui-Gon’s gaze traveled over the young Jedi’s disheveled appearance as he stood in the doorway of his quarters. Obi-Wan’s eyes did not meet his, “Yes, Master.” Well, not exactly a lie, mused Qui-Gon. He had come to propose morning meditation, but paused to reconsider. “You had better change and get something to eat. Then perhaps you will be better prepared for our meditation session.” Obi-Wan quickly looked up, distress registering on his young face. “I am ready now, Master. I can eat later.” Qui-Gon considered him for a moment and suppressed a sigh. He knew Obi-Wan was eager to please and anxious to prove his commitment and Qui-Gon was grateful for that. They had been through some difficult times and were still trying to rebuild the trust that had been broken when they had parted ways on Melida/Daan. Melida/Daan. The ever fluid emotions and memories of all that had happened between them on that sad planet were hard to lose and lingered close, quick to surface if he allowed them. Obi-Wan’s face as he stood before Qui-Gon, light saber drawn in defiance, was vivid in Qui-Gon’s memory, etched there by feelings of anger and betrayal that had long since faded. The sick empty feeling in his gut as Obi-Wan relinquished the weapon and the helpless anger as he watched the boy throw everything away were not emotions that would easily pass without a leaving a mark. But the anger had passed. True forgiveness and understanding had not come easy, but they had come, fostered by a deep affection for the boy that had never really left. And when he could finally look without anger at the images in his mind Qui-Gon saw something that pulled at his heart. He saw all that he had missed before. He no longer saw the hard face of defiance and betrayal, in its place he saw only Obi-Wan’s brave determination, his willingness to fight to build a better future for his friends, and the selfless passion for good that had driven the young Jedi to his desperate act. Obi-Wan had been foolish and impulsive, but he had followed his heart, and in that Qui-Gon could not find fault. What had happened to that boy, the one who was willing to throw away all he had known to try for peace against impossible odds? Qui-Gon did not want to return to the past, that was not the way of the Jedi. He and Obi-Wan had come so far, but Obi-Wan had changed. But then Qui-Gon had changed as well. No, there was no going back Qui-Gon thought with a sudden pang. The death of his former padawan, Xanatos had seen to that. In recent days it seemed to color all of his actions. Memories of Xanatos as a promising, eager young boy haunted Qui-Gon as they had not done in years. He raged against the loss. Xanatos had been a bright spot in Qui-Gon’s life, before he had turned. Before I hunted him down and killed him, Qui-Gon thought bitterly. Xanatos’ betrayal had cost him; it had taken him to the edge of his endurance. He had survived, he had buried the pain and the guilt and continued down the path that had always been his life. He had even thought it was behind him when the bond with his new padawan, Obi-Wan, had tentatively started to grow. But the old feelings would not let go. They had resurfaced on Melida/Daan and had almost caused a permanent rift between himself and Obi-Wan. It was his fear that drove him. He could not face such a loss again. So Qui-Gon steeled himself against the future and drove Obi-Wan to the point of exhaustion. He knew it made no sense, control was just an illusion. And he could feel Obi-Wan’s growing confusion and self doubt brought on by his actions. We will come to terms with this, Qui-Gon thought battling to control his emotions. In the meantime he could use some advice. He finally spoke. “We will meditate another time. There is something I need to do, alone.” A moment filled with disproportionate alarm, before the boy fought it back and managed to choke out, “Yes, Master” yet again. Qui-Gon put his hand on Obi-Wan’s shoulder, trying to still the boy’s sudden panic. “Go and get something to eat, Obi-Wan,” he said gently, but firmly. “I will find you when I need you.” He felt the slight drop in Obi-Wan’s shoulders as the boy worked to relax. A calming breath in and out and then another and suddenly Obi-Wan was grinning up at him, “You mean real food! I was starting to get worried a few days ago when I found myself looking forward to another ration bar.” It was like a moment of sunshine in the middle of a rainstorm after all of the tension between them. A quick bow and Obi-Wan was suddenly off, hurrying toward the turbolift that would take him to the cafeteria. Probably afraid the Jedi Master might suddenly change his mind. Food was always a good motivator for Obi-Wan. Well some things haven’t changed, thought a bemused Qui-Gon as he watched Obi-Wan out of sight and then turned and walked in the opposite direction. Qui-Gon was still thinking of Obi-Wan when he found himself in the open doorway of Tahl’s apartment. Tahl was not alone. Bant, a young Calamarian Jedi student was seated at the table, her head close to Tahl’s as she pored over text documents on an open data pad. Tahl looked up immediately, although Qui-Gon had made no sound. As always Qui-Gon was struck by how beautiful she was. In the soft Temple light her golden skin glowed and her sightless green eyes still held a light that was at once an invitation and a warning. She was the kindest, warmest being Qui-Gon knew and yet her sharp tongue backed by a keen intellect and insight did not always distinguish between friend and foe. She smiled, “Qui-Gon! Come in and sit down, Bant and I have made some fascinating discoveries. She gestured to a seat beside her and Bant moved quickly to clear it of flimsies and a data viewer. “Obi-Wan is not with you, “Tahl observed. Although she was blind she was remarkably perceptive. “He must be with the healers recovering from exhaustion.” The gleam in her eyes brightened, and Qui-Gon sat down warily. He turned to Bant, but the young Calamarian regarded him coolly with her usually gentle silver eyes. She returned his warm greeting with a slight bow. Bant closed her data pad and stood, shoulders back. She drew herself to her full height, which was not significant as she was small even for a Calamarian. “If you will excuse me, Master Tahl,” she said. “I have some studying to do for an afternoon class. If you please, I will return to continue our work before the evening meal. Good day, Master Jinn.” She looked as if she was going to add something, but lowered her eyes and hurried from the room. Qui-Gon looked after her in bewilderment. “Ah, the great idol has fallen,” Tahl said with obvious amusement. She sat for a moment, her head tilted to one side as if considering something then she stood suddenly as if coming to a decision. “Bant is an excellent pupil. There is strength and wisdom behind her gentleness. I come to value her more each day,” she said as much to herself as to Qui-Gon. “Shall I make us some tea? And then we can talk.” Tahl gathered the tea things, moving quickly and assuredly despite her blindness. She started to make the tea, stopping when she sensed Qui-Gon’s bewilderment. She laid her hand on top of Qui-Gon’s which was resting on the table. “Bant has a real regard for you, but her loyalty is to Obi-Wan first. They have been friends for a long time,” Tahl said gently. Qui-Gon frowned, “That is as it should be, Obi-Wan is blessed with such a friend.” Tahl laughed softly, “You still do not understand do you, my good friend? Bant’s anger at you stems from her worry about Obi-Wan.” ”Obi-Wan?” Qui-Gon replied. “Why should she be worried about Obi-Wan?” Tahl shook her head and turned her sightless green eyes on Qui-Gon’s face, seeming to study him before she continued, “You are an amazing man, Qui-Gon Jinn. You are a master Jedi, more attuned to the living force around you than any I know and yet you seem not to be aware of what is being said here at the Temple about your treatment of your young apprentice.” Qui-Gon’s face was expressionless, only one who knew him as Tahl did would realize his deep displeasure. She continued undaunted. “They say you are testing Obi-Wan. If he passes or even survives your tests, you will take him back as your padawan.” Qui-Gon’s face remained impassive. He was silent for several moments. “I have never known you to listen to gossip, my friend,” he finally said, his voice deadly calm. “Oh, for stars sakes, Qui-Gon!” Tahl’s voice was sharp. “You know I am not foolish enough to believe what they are saying. I don’t know the reason for your recent behavior, but I know how you feel about testing a padawan’s loyalty. Obi-Wan could be the perfect Jedi padawan and you would not take him back if your heart did not tell you so. “ Her voice softened. “I know you old friend. I know you have a reason for what you are doing. But when you are young, it is hard not to be swayed by what those around you are saying.” “Like Bant?” he asked. Tahl shook her head. “Like Obi-Wan.” Qui-Gon drank his tea in silence trying to sort out what Tahl had just told him. Tahl sat with him without speaking. They knew each other well enough to be comfortable with the silence. As usual Tahl had struck at the heart of the matter and it appeared he had been remiss. Well, that was why you came here wasn’t it, for her insight, Qui-Gon chided himself. If Obi-Wan had been listening to the temple gossip he would have reason to doubt, it would explain his recent behavior. Qui-Gon had to work hard to suppress his irritation. He examined his anger and had to wonder at the source. He was disappointed by his fellow Jedi, what right had they to question how he trained his padawan. But Obi-Wan was not his padawan, at least not in the eyes of the Jedi. And Obi-Wan had doubted his word! Qui-Gon had agreed to take him back, to train him. Qui-Gon had used to be able to read his padawan’s feelings like a book, but now there was that tight hidden secret place in Obi-Wan that he could not penetrate. Maybe he afraid of what it would reveal. And he was angry with himself. It was his own actions and his inability to explain the fear that drove him that was the source of the problem. Qui-Gon took Tahl’s hand in his own and studied it. Her hand was small and finely shaped, dwarfed by his large rough hand. But he knew that there was great strength in these hands. He studied his friend’s face. She was strong, much stronger than he was. He knew he had only to ask and she would share her strength and wisdom. But he was used to battling alone and sharing his burden with others did not come easy. Tahl waited in quiet expectation. “He is headstrong and will take risks. I cannot always be there to protect him,” Qui-Gon started. “He has little regard for his own safety when others are in danger.” “Are we talking about Obi-Wan or about you?” Tahl queried wryly. Qui-Gon ignored her and continued. “It is my responsibility to protect him and yet I lead him into danger. He almost died on Telos, and I could do nothing to stop it,” Qui-Gon finished desperately. “So you have learned there is more than one way to lose a padawan,” Tahl said quietly. To lose a padawan again, surely the universe would not be so cruel! He had lost Xanatos twice. Once to darkness and now to death. Xanatos was dead. The thought of his death brought a wave of fresh pain. In the years following Xanatos’ betrayal Qui-Gon had thought he was inured to the pain. Was the knowledge of his death any worse than the pain of knowing what the bright young boy had become? Xanatos’ death brought new agony because although he would admit it to no one, Qui-Gon had secretly nurtured a slender thread of hope. Hope that the boy he had loved was not lost forever. Tahl continued talking, giving him a chance to regain control. “Yes, it is possible you could lose Obi-Wan, I won’t deny it. Danger is a big part of life as a Jedi and that is something you cannot change, Qui-Gon. We face danger everyday so that we may serve. If you try to protect Obi-Wan from that then he will never truly know what it is to be a Jedi.” “I know these things,” Qui-Gon said. “To become a Jedi is all that Obi-Wan wants and I will not deny him that. I have pledged myself to help him on this path. Obi-Wan is meant to be a Jedi.” Tahl could feel the determination in his voice even though he had spoken quietly. “Obi-Wan is strong with the Force, it will protect him when the time comes,” she said firmly. “But he does not always listen to the Force,” Qui-Gon said irritably. He is too distracted by the events around him, he has yet to learn to let go and trust his feelings. He is young and has much to learn. “ Tahl’s expression lightened as if a new understanding had dawned on her. “And so you will teach him in days what takes others years to learn. Now I know that a least part of what they are saying is true. Have you really not let him sleep in over a week?” she said, a teasing tone in her voice. “I will prepare Obi-Wan as I see fit, “ Qui-Gon said not taking up her tone. “And that is no one’s business but my own.” “But it is, Qui-Gon,” Tahl said, serious again. “What if you are doing more harm than good. Obi-Wan’s trust in you is essential to your ability to protect him. Have you thought of what your demands may be doing to that trust?” Tahl sighed, “It would be different if he were officially your padawan. Do you have any idea when his probation will end?” “I have left that up to the Council, it makes little difference to me when they decide,” Qui-Gon said with a slightly defiant note in his voice. “But don’t you see, old friend, it makes all the difference to Obi-Wan,” Tahl finished gently. &
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Valairy_Scot Title: PT Rewrite Winner Registered: Sep '05	Date Posted: 7/14/07 5:03pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	Melida/Daan. The ever fluid emotions and memories of all that had happened between them on that sad planet were hard to lose and lingered close, quick to surface if he allowed them. Obi-Wan’s face as he stood before Qui-Gon, light saber drawn in defiance, was vivid in Qui-Gon’s memory, etched there by feelings of anger and betrayal that had long since faded. The sick empty feeling in his gut as Obi-Wan relinquished the weapon and the helpless anger as he watched the boy throw everything away were not emotions that would easily pass without a leaving a mark. But the anger had passed. True forgiveness and understanding had not come easy, but they had come, fostered by a deep affection for the boy that had never really left. And when he could finally look without anger at the images in his mind Qui-Gon saw something that pulled at his heart. He saw all that he had missed before. He no longer saw the hard face of defiance and betrayal, in its place he saw only Obi-Wan’s brave determination, his willingness to fight to build a better future for his friends, and the selfless passion for good that had driven the young Jedi to his desperate act. Obi-Wan had been foolish and impulsive, but he had followed his heart, and in that Qui-Gon could not find fault. What had happened to that boy, the one who was willing to throw away all he had known to try for peace against impossible odds? Qui-Gon did not want to return to the past, that was not the way of the Jedi. He and Obi-Wan had come so far, but Obi-Wan had changed. But then Qui-Gon had changed as well. No, there was no going back Qui-Gon thought with a sudden pang. The death of his former padawan, Xanatos had seen to that. In recent days it seemed to color all of his actions. Memories of Xanatos as a promising, eager young boy haunted Qui-Gon as they had not done in years. He raged against the loss. Xanatos had been a bright spot in Qui-Gon’s life, before he had turned. Before I hunted him down and killed him, Qui-Gon thought bitterly. Xanatos’ betrayal had cost him; it had taken him to the edge of his endurance. He had survived, he had buried the pain and the guilt and continued down the path that had always been his life. He had even thought it was behind him when the bond with his new padawan, Obi-Wan, had tentatively started to grow. But the old feelings would not let go. They had resurfaced on Melida/Daan and had almost caused a permanent rift between himself and Obi-Wan. It was his fear that drove him. He could not face such a loss again. So Qui-Gon steeled himself against the future and drove Obi-Wan to the point of exhaustion. He knew it made no sense, control was just an illusion. And he could feel Obi-Wan’s growing confusion and self doubt brought on by his actions. Ah, it all makes sense, now...you can truly understand Qui's motivations - and it's clear he truly recognizes what drove Obi to his actions on Melida/Daan. Tahl, as always, is wonderful. “But it is, Qui-Gon,” Tahl said, serious again. “What if you are doing more harm than good. Obi-Wan’s trust in you is essential to your ability to protect him. Have you thought of what your demands may be doing to that trust?” Tahl sighed, “It would be different if he were officially your padawan. Do you have any idea when his probation will end?” “I have left that up to the Council, it makes little difference to me when they decide,” Qui-Gon said with a slightly defiant note in his voice. “But don’t you see, old friend, it makes all the difference to Obi-Wan,” Tahl finished gently. That is getting to the root of the problem in a nutshell (mixed metaphor,!). -----signature----- http://boards.theforce.net/fan_fiction_resource/b10304/25405090/p3/?52 Prolific Author thread: list & links there. Muse fueled by coffee. Often AWOL despite frequent sipping. Writes on inspiration, not a schedule. Proud master of several padawans
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dianethx Registered: Mar '02	Date Posted: 7/14/07 5:20pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	At least Tahl is being a good friend. Qui needs one, especially to tell him when he's wrong. Poor Obi-Wan, probably confused and exhausted and wondering if he'd ever have Qui's regard again. “I will prepare Obi-Wan as I see fit, “ Qui-Gon said not taking up her tone. “And that is no one’s business but my own.” “But it is, Qui-Gon,” Tahl said, serious again. “What if you are doing more harm than good. Obi-Wan’s trust in you is essential to your ability to protect him. Have you thought of what your demands may be doing to that trust?” Tahl sighed, “It would be different if he were officially your padawan. Do you have any idea when his probation will end?” “I have left that up to the Council, it makes little difference to me when they decide,” Qui-Gon said with a slightly defiant note in his voice. “But don’t you see, old friend, it makes all the difference to Obi-Wan,” Tahl finished gently. Great job. -----signature----- Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 9/22/08 Fragments of Illusion- http://boards.theforce.net/bts/b10475/28456473 updated 11/20/08 jedidas3's Master At last - Hope for our country
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ClaudiaR Registered: Jun '07	Date Posted: 7/14/07 9:06pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	Thanks for the PM! I have to say Qui is right and not right, and a sensitive insensitive person... he can see much... but is a blind man when it comes to some of his unofficial padawan1s needs... thankfully Tahl can make him see... she is a wonderful person and I am certain very treasured bu her friends... to think that this ordeal miht have dirven them closer before her death is very bittersweet.... -----signature----- LURK&STALK It takes a specialist to do it right " Getting to stalk around importantly was quickly becoming the best part of pretending to be a Sith. " Obi-Wan in Deptions by Amrita_Glittersong
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Gkilkenny Registered: Mar '04	Date Posted: 7/15/07 4:23am Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	Lovely update. Qui-Gon is setting Obi-Wan up for a fall if he doesn't ease up on him. Words from his peers can hurt, and his confidence is at an all time low. Qui-Gon should stop seeing Xanatos and see Obi-Wan. I hope he listens to Tahl. -----signature----- Padawan to p_stotts Peace over anger - honour over hate - Strength over fear. Links to Stories in my Bio. Obi-Wan forever.
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Ganki Registered: Jan '02	Date Posted: 7/16/07 11:06am Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	bangs Qui-Gon over the head with a stick Obi-Wan is NOT Xani glare Stupid Qui-Gon! I hope he listens to Tahl, for the sake of Obi-Wan and himself. If not he will probably destroy their relationship¡Kor what is left of it. I just Qui-Gon sets things right before Obi really does end up at the healer. However you know our Obi, he just LOVES ending up in the healers >.< I did like the ending line it brings the true problem to light. Beautiful update, I am looking forward to more Jinn/Kenobi interactions. Cannot wait for more~! Uppidy up up ƒº -----signature----- “The act of putting pen to paper encourages pause for thought, this in turn makes us think more deeply about life, which helps us regain our equilibrium.” ~Norbet Platt
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azizah Registered: Sep '06	Date Posted: 8/11/07 4:28pm Subject: RE: One Path (Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Oc's)
	Valairy_Scot – Thanks for reading. Yes, Tahl is always a good one for smacking Qui-Gon in the head. dianethx – Poor Obi-Wan indeed, but of course it is only going to get worse, well better for awhile, then worse. ClaudiaR- Yes, for being so insightful, the man has some terrible blind spots. Thanks for reading. Gkilkenny – I hope he listens to Tahl too. But that would make for an awfully short story. Ganki – Easy on the stick there, girl, you might do some permanent damage. More interaction to come. Don’t ask me to explain how my life became too busy to update a story that has already been written, but it did. Sorry for the delay. This next little part was supposed to be on the end of the last post and I left it off by mistake. Thank you all for reading.
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