Jedi Council Forums - Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Updated 9/3/8- Obi's decision/Xan's apprentice

Jedi Council Forums » Fan Fiction » The Saga »

Post Reply | Active Topic Notification | Previous Active Topic | Next Active Topic

Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 - ~~Previous~~ | Next | Reload

Author	Topic: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Updated 9/3/8- Obi's decision/Xan's apprentice
bek Registered: Jul '05	Date Posted: 5/20 7:22pm Subject: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Updated 9/3/8- Obi's decision/Xan's apprentice - Date Edited: 9/3 2:59pm (7 edits total) Edited By: bek
	Title: Strength to Begin Anew Author: bek Genre: AU - Post TPM (Qui-Gon lived) Characters: Obi-Wan (30), Anakin (15), Qui-Gon Summary: A strain in their relationship has caused Obi-Wan to accept a transfer to a satellite temple as well as receive training (only mentioned) otherwise not approved of by Qui-Gon. After a five year absence, Obi-Wan is forced back to Coruscant with no explanation as to why he's there. Yoda takes matters into his own hands. Disclaimer: The characters (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, Anakin, etc…) belong to Lucas or Watson. I make no profit from this. It's just a hobby. Author Note: I know this scenario has been done many times before, but this bunny bit and wouldn't leave me alone until it was written. This fic is a short story and does not go into detail about some things mentioned. The characters, Master Jedi Zarek Callen and Corwin Jai are my creations, though they're only mentioned. I hope you enjoy! Strength to Begin Anew The padawan tossed and turned on his cot, the blessed state of sleep just out of his reach. Tired of trying to make himself do something that was obviously not going to happen, he threw off the blankets that covered him and sat up on the edge of the bunk. Swiping a hand over his face and up into his hair, he stood and went to the fresher. The mirror revealed the lack of rest he’d endured during the last two missions. His master hadn’t faired any better; the negotiations were not only stressful but hard won. He was thankful the elder man had found sleep to be a welcoming friend in wait. Splashing some water on his face to wash away the fatigue he felt, he ran his wet hands through his hair and proceeded to straighten it: gently coaxing stray strands back into place. Once he gained some semblance of a somewhat well put together apprentice, he went back to his room and took a tunic from the closet, before reaching into the top drawer of his nightstand and grabbing his lightsaber. Once he had everything he needed, he headed out the door. His and his master’s preferred training salle wasn’t far from their quarters. When he entered the gymnasium, he stopped and moved over to the nearby viewing area to watch the lone figure that now occupied the half lit room. Apparently, he wasn’t the only one who was losing sleep this night. The kata currently in motion was executed with grace and precision, the result of long hours of training and practice. A slight shift in the force indicated to the apprentice that the Knight was well aware of his presence. When the kata was complete, the figure stood momentarily facing away from the padawan before turning to approach the bench where his belongings lay. Carefully shielding himself from the unexpected visitor, the elder man recovered his tunic and slid into it before turning to face his uninvited guest. Two sets of blue eyes met. The younger smiled, realizing whom he was facing. Rising from the seat he had claimed during the exhibition, he walked over to the Knight and offered a bow of respect before surprising the man by giving him a quick hug. Pulling back, the teen smiled. “I was beginning to think I’d never see you again! When did you get back?” The Knight released a deep breath. “Eight weeks ago. When did you arrive?” “Early last evening.” The youth’s smile was contagious, causing the elder Jedi to return one in kind. “It’s good to see you Obi-Wan!” “Likewise, Anakin. You’ve grown since I last saw you.” The young man smirked. “Five years will do that when you’re not looking.” “Touché.” Obi-Wan gestured toward the bench and the two took a seat. “What brings you down here?” Anakin’s jovial mood slipped away and he shrugged. “Couldn’t sleep.” The youth could not have picked anyone who would better understand his insomnia if he'd tried. "Me neither,” the Knight replied. He studied the changes in the youth. He was almost as tall as the Knight himself, his arms and legs seemingly too long for his body: the awkwardness of youth asserting itself in the midst of puberty. He remembered all to well those years of trying to find other ways to approach the more physical aspects of his training in relation to his growing body. Needless to say, he didn’t miss it. “How’s training?” The padawan shrugged. “It’s okay. I’m learning a lot. The physical training seems to come naturally, but the academics are a bit harder. Master has gotten some tutors to help, but I don’t know if that will be enough. The work just doesn’t make sense.” Before he could close his mouth, Obi-Wan offered, “I could help if you want. Believe it or not, I too had trouble with the academic part of training.” Anakin’s eyes narrowed in suspicion and confusion. “But everyone always talks about how well you did.” “I worked very hard in my training, Anakin. Probably harder than was expected…I had a lot to prove.” The last words were said in a near whisper, but the apprentice caught it nonetheless. “What did you have to prove? Everyone says you were the perfect padawan.” Obi-Wan grimaced at the title. “They still say that?” When the youth nodded, the Knight smiled and ruffled the boy’s hair. “Obviously not perfect enough.” Obi-Wan stood. “C’mon, let’s go see what kind of snacks we can raid from the refectory.” The reason for coming to the salle forgotten, Anakin grinned in agreement. As the two walked from the room, the force hummed its approval. X The refectory was low on midnight snacks, so the two opted to go to Obi-Wan’s quarters as the cabinets had been fully stocked several days before. “You’re not too far from our apartment.” Anakin noticed, looking around the corridor. Not commenting, Obi-Wan went into the kitchen and found something to satisfy their late night hunger. Placing the items on a tray, he fixed some drinks and carried them into the common room. Settling themselves on the sofa, the Knight turned on the holo tube before joining his guest in digging into the food. “So, where have you been these past years?” Anakin asked, dipping his cracker into some cheese sauce and maneuvering it unsuccessfully to his mouth. After stuffing it in, he frowned at the trail that dripped onto his leggings. Without thought, Obi-Wan used the force to call a towel to him. Handing it to the teen, he replied, “Here and there.” The youth wiped the sauce from his pants and looked up at the person he considered to be his friend. “I was beginning to think you were never coming back; five years is a long time.” Obi-Wan took the towel the padawan had handed back to him and placed it on the table beside the tray. He wasn’t sure how to answer. If it had been up to him, he wouldn’t have returned. He only did so by order of the Council. He eyed the young one from his peripheral. If truth be known, he didn’t blame Anakin or hold him responsible for what happened between himself and Qui-Gon. The boy was innocent of it all: he didn’t ask for the bet Qui-Gon made with Watto, and wasn’t even aware of it until the elder man had told him. And he didn't ask to become a subject of contention between his potential mentor and padawan brother. The reason for Obi-Wan's absence was that he and Qui-Gon had been at odds, and he wasn’t looking forward to the inevitable confrontation he knew would come. As soon as Anakin returned to his apartment, the Jedi Master would know that Obi-Wan had returned. “I was beginning to think that myself,” he answered quietly. Anakin knew some of what had happened, but he didn't know all of it. “He misses you; he’d probably never admit to it, but he does. There are times he just sits in the star map room and stares at nothing in particular. It’s those times when he’s thinking about you. He even had me hack into the Council’s files just to find out what were doing and if you were safe.” Obi-Wan’s eyes widened in disbelief. “I know he’s a bit of a rebel, but you’re kidding, right?” Anakin shook his head and replied before taking a sip of his drink. “Nope.” The young man wiped the sleeve of his tunic across his mouth to remove the residue of the liquid. “Are you going to talk to him?” The Knight looked at the apprentice for a moment before responding. “I need some time to get my thoughts in order. I would appreciate it if you kept my homecoming quiet for just a little while.” The teen nodded his consent before leaning back into the cushions and focusing on the movie playing on the holo tube. Following suit, Obi-Wan stared vacantly into the screen while his mind wandered in another direction. The two would awake the next morning not knowing when sleep had overcome them. X The chime rang repeatedly, rousing a disgruntled Knight from a restful slumber. Yawning while stretching his arms high above his head, Obi-Wan looked around a moment to reacquaint himself with where he was. When he saw Anakin sleeping peacefully at the other end of the sofa, he remembered. Turing his head from side to side in an attempt to loosen the muscles in his neck, Obi-Wan waved a hand at the door opening it. He quickly stood when he saw who was on the other side. His body tensed and his gaze hardened; his Jedi mask of calm, the one he had learned only too well at his former mentor’s side, slid into place. The two stared at one another for some time until Qui-Gon finally broke the silence. “I didn’t realize you had returned.” Obi-Wan made a gesture for the master to quiet his tone and then nodded but didn’t reply. Understanding, Qui-Gon lowered his voice. “I was looking for Anakin; I followed the training bond to these quarters.” The young knight turned to look at the padawan and then motioned for the Jedi to come in. Qui-Gon stepped around the Knight and saw his apprentice sleeping peacefully on the couch. He smiled despite himself. “He’s had trouble sleeping lately. I’m glad he finally found some rest.” “He’s welcome to stay until he wakes. If he hasn’t been sleeping, then he should get it while he can.” Qui-Gon nodded his consent. “Please have him contact me when he wakes.” The Jedi turned to exit the door and then stopped and turned back. “How’d you two meet up?” “The training salle, midnight.” “It’s good to know some things haven’t changed,” the master whispered, leaving before Obi-Wan could form a reply. When the door shut behind the elder man, the young Knight collapsed back onto his end of the sofa and released a deep breath. “Great, so much for wanting more time.” Standing, he went into the fresher to clean up. X Obi-Wan had just set breakfast on the table when Anakin awoke. The young man wasted no time in clamoring for the table, his stomach rumbling in agreement. The older man chuckled at the young one’s exuberance to eat. When the two had finished, Obi-Wan related Qui-Gon’s request. Anakin’s brow lifted in surprise. “You two conversed and the temple is still standing?” Obi-Wan smirked. “Don’t push it, young one.” A knock at the door had the padawan up and running before Obi-Wan could think of answering it. When he reached the door, Anakin opened it to find Garen standing on the other side. “Good morning, Knight Muln.” “Don’t you mean afternoon, Anakin? What are you doing here?” “I fell asleep on the couch and Knight Kenobi was kind enough to let me be.” Walking into the apartment, the elder noticed his friend was clearing the table. When he met Obi-Wan’s gaze, the other shook his head as if to say ‘not now’. “And you were on the couch because?” “Oh,” Anakin sat down to pull his boots on. “I couldn’t sleep.” He looked at the crono. “I’d best get going. Master’s probably waiting for me.” Grabbing his cloak from the hook by the door, the young man turned and gave Obi-Wan a bow of respect. “Thank you for your hospitality.” The door opened and he was gone. Garen followed his friend back into the kitchen and watched as the other put the dirty dishes into the cleaning unit. “What was that all about?” Obi-Wan positioned the plates into their proper slots before grabbing hold of the cups and placing them in the upper wire tray. “I don’t blame him, Garen, you know that.” “Yes, I do. But that doesn’t explain why he was here." "He walked into the training room I was using last night." The Knight shrugged. "We started talking and ended up back here to watch a movie." "You could have sent him back to Jinn’s quarters or left him to train in the salle.” Placing the utensils into the basket, he closed the door and turned it on. A cascade of water was heard as it sprayed over the soiled dishes. Turning toward his friend, Obi-Wan leaned back against the counter. “From what I understand, he still hasn’t made many friends in the five years he’s been here. What did it hurt to give him some of my time and companionship?” “Look, I don't have anything against the kid. But you’ve most likely made yourself a friend, Obi-Wan. That boy is going to be around here more than you would probably like. And with that, brings Jinn.” Obi-Wan placed the towel he had been holding onto the counter and walked into the living area. He sat down in a chair and propped his feet up, his head falling to rest against the cushioned back. Garen moved over to the couch and began folding the blankets that still lay upon its surface. “He came by this morning.” Garen paused in mid-fold and then resumed his task. “What happened?” “Nothing. He was looking for his apprentice.” Knowing the master had followed the training bond, Garen didn’t bother asking how he knew of Anakin’s whereabouts. “And?” “And nothing. He agreed to allow Anakin to rest and requested that I tell him to contact him.” Obi-Wan shifted his position a little. “He was actually quite civil.” “I’m sure.” Garen placed the folded blankets on the end of the sofa before sitting down. “You do know why Yoda had you return, don’t you?” When Obi-Wan indicated that he had no idea, Garen explained. “The council wants you two to work things out so they can start sending you on missions together. Whether you agree or not, they consider you and Jinn one of the best teams they had.” “There were others who were better than we were.” Garen shook his head. Obi-Wan was still as humble as ever. “Not with your success rate there wasn’t.” They were both quiet for some time until Knight Muln asked, “Do you think there’s a chance of at least working with him again? I’m not talking about friendship, but colleagues.” “He didn’t want me as his apprentice, Garen, do you really think he’d want me to work with him? I wasn’t good enough then, why now? Besides, my mission track isn’t that great. The last two were failures; I couldn’t even get them to sit down at the same table long enough to introduce myself.” “There are those who just don’t want to be helped. I’m sure it had nothing to do with you personally.” -----signature----- Update 10/2/08- Chap. 40- Life Beyond the Code (Obi-Wan/Anakin) - http://boards.theforce.net/The_Saga/b10476/20820324 Update 11/12/08- Chap. 27 - Not Myself - (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon/Oc's) - Before the Saga Update 9/3/08 - Part 6 - Strength to Begin Anew
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
ZaraValinor Registered: May '02	Date Posted: 5/20 7:50pm Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 1/3 - 5/20/08
	This is remarkable. Please put me on the PM list. -----signature----- Proud Master to Meredith_Kenobi & Lolly_Tolly "He full-on Obi-Wan'd me!" Dean Winchester - Supernatural
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
monkeykelci Registered: Apr '08	Date Posted: 5/20 11:21pm Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 1/3 - 5/20/08
	I really enjoyed this. Could you put me on the PM list please? -----signature----- Hockey players wear numbers because you can’t always identify the body with dental records. Padawan Learner to Oddball_62!! =]
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Gkilkenny Registered: Mar '04	Date Posted: 5/20 11:50pm Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 1/3 - 5/20/08
	Ah another interesting twist to the story of what happened after that scene in the temple. I would like to be included on your PM list please You know how much I adore Obi and Qui stories. -----signature----- Padawan to p_stotts Peace over anger - honour over hate - Strength over fear. Links to Stories in my Bio. Obi-Wan forever.
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
VaderLVR64 Title: Fan Fic Manager in Combat Boots Registered: Feb '04	Date Posted: 5/21 4:06am Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 1/3 - 5/20/08
	Amazing, but I'm not at all surprised! Please put me on the PM list for this one. I don't want to miss a single word! -----signature----- If you have to choose between tears and laughter, remember that laughter burns more calories. Army Mom! HOOAH! Adopt a soldier: http://soldiersangels.org/
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
EGKenobi Registered: Apr '05	Date Posted: 5/21 4:56am Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 1/3 - 5/20/08
	Good start, this is interesting. PM me when you update this. EG -----signature----- The Shifting Future: http://boards.theforce.net/Message.aspx?topic=24571153&brd=10476&start=25321338 Event Horizon: http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/24429782/p1/?4 Padawan to Courtney_Solo Jesus Freak
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
jedidas3 Registered: Apr '07	Date Posted: 5/21 7:22am Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 1/3 - 5/20/08
	You've done it again. You've got me hooked on another one of your stories. Please put me on the PM list for this and for anything else you right! -----signature----- The Past Revisited http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/28440949 Lessons Learned http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/28580784 Remembrance http://boards.theforce.net/before_the_saga/b10475/28009025 Padawan to dianethx
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Valairy_Scot Title: PT Rewrite Winner Registered: Sep '05	Date Posted: 5/21 12:26pm Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 1/3 - 5/20/08
	"He didn’t want me as his apprentice, Garen, do you really think he’d want me to work with him? I wasn’t good enough then, why now? The pain never leaves, but Obi-Wan is being very mature about it and Anakin - just the way I think he'd behave if Qui had taken Ani as his padawan. Now I'm curious if Obi-Wan was taken by another master, or when he was knighted, but even after 5 years he hasn't forgotten. Please add me to the PM list - I don't want to miss an update! -----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
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
dianethx Registered: Mar '02	Date Posted: 5/21 2:13pm Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 1/3 - 5/20/08
	“He didn’t want me as his apprentice, Garen, do you really think he’d want me to work with him? I wasn’t good enough then, why now? Besides, my mission track isn’t that great. The last two were failures; I couldn’t even get them to sit down at the same table long enough to introduce myself.” Yes, the scenerio has been done before but so what. I still want to read it. You'll have your own take on it and that's all that counts. Put me on your PM list please! -----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
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
charie Registered: Oct '07	Date Posted: 5/26 10:23am Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 1/3 - 5/20/08
	Wow! I really Love this! I think it will be very interesting. Please add me to your pm list too! I'm glad I found this one. I'm not very good at navigating this site. Please continue soon.
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
bek Registered: Jul '05	Date Posted: 5/26 2:33pm Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 1 of 3 - 5/20/08 - Date Edited: 5/26 4:18pm (3 edits total) Edited By: bek
	ZaraValinor This is remarkable. Thank you! Please put me on the PM list. I'd be happy to! monkeykelci I really enjoyed this. I'm glad you liked it! Could you put me on the PM list please? You've been added. Gkilkenny Ah another interesting twist to the story of what happened after that scene in the temple. I hope you continue to enjoy it! I would like to be included on your PM list please. I'd be happy to add you! You know how much I adore Obi and Qui stories. I do too! VaderLVR64 Amazing, but I'm not at all surprised! Please put me on the PM list for this one. I don't want to miss a single word! Thanks! And I'd be happy to add you to the list. EGKenobi Good start, this is interesting. Thank you! PM me when you update this. Of course! jedidas3 You've done it again. You've got me hooked on another one of your stories. I’m glad you like it! Please put me on the PM list for this and for anything else you right! I'd be happy to! Valairy_Scot The pain never leaves, but Obi-Wan is being very mature about it and Anakin - just the way I think he'd behave if Qui had taken Ani as his padawan. Now I'm curious if Obi-Wan was taken by another master, or when he was knighted, but even after 5 years he hasn't forgotten. Those questions will be answered by the end of part three. Please keep in mind that this is a short story consisting of three parts, so there may be some unanswered questions; there will be details that are not explored. Please add me to the PM list - I don't want to miss an update! You've been added! dianethx Yes, the scenario has been done before but so what, I still want to read it. You'll have your own take on it and that's all that counts. Thank you for the support! I admit, I was a little nervous about posting this with all the other wonderfully written scenarios out there surrounding this topic. But, I feel much better now! Put me on your PM list please! I'd be honored. charie Wow! I really Love this! I think it will be very interesting. Please add me to your pm list too! Thanks! You've been added to the list. Part 2 “Is this why you brought us back early? We still had another week at least to finalize the negotiations.” “Time to return it was.” “You didn’t tell me he was here.” “Ask you did not.” Qui-Gon released a frustrated breath. Yoda leaned forward on his gimer stick. “Why does this upset you?” “It doesn’t upset me, Master. It’s awkward.” “Know the boy you have for half his life. Awkward how?” Qui-Gon was seated on a cushion in the middle of Yoda’s living area, his arm resting on one raised knee. Thoughts tumbled around in his mind clamoring for attention, yet he did not know where to begin. “Troubled you are.” Before he could stop himself, Qui-Gon smarted back, “What else did you expect?!” Aggravated with his lack of respect, he smoothed a hand over his face before turning to look at the Council member. “I apologize, Master. It was just easier when we didn’t have to see each other.” “Easier for who?” Glaring at his elder, Qui-Gon replied, “The weeks before he left, we couldn’t even speak two kind words to one another: they always seemed to come out wrong, somehow.” “Although attachment is forbidden, like a son he was, yes?” Qui-Gon nodded once. “Hurt him too you did.” “I know.” “Work it out, you must.” “We haven’t spoken in five years.” “Spoke earlier this morning you did, and civil too.” “That doesn’t count.” “Count it does.” The end of the small master’s gimer stick struck the floor for emphasis. "Hmmph…too much pride have you to consider mending fences." Sorrow filled eyes met Yoda's. "When it comes to him, I have no pride left." A slight smile graced Yoda's features. "Speaking like a true parent you now are. Pride has no place when seeking reconciliation with those who mean the most." When Qui-Gon remained silent, Yoda added, "However, your stubbornness is another issue altogether. Get in the way, it may. Humble pie you must eat before speaking with young Kenobi further." Before the Jedi could make a retort, Yoda concluded, “See you both in chambers in one hour.” Knowing a dismissal when he heard one, Qui-Gon rose from his place on the floor. “Yes master.” X Obi-Wan arrived at the central tower lift perplexed. He had been summoned before the council and yet he had just seen three of the council members in the refectory. Shrugging the thought off, he mused that it must be a private audience with a select few. When the lift doors opened, the Knight made to step in but paused when he saw the other occupant. Qui-Gon stepped to the side, making space for his former padawan if he wished to take this lift instead of waiting for the next. The young man hesitated a few minutes longer in indecision before deciding to tough it out. He stepped into the elevator, and the door closed. Yoda stepped out from behind the pillar across the hall. Turning to the Temple maintenance personnel behind him, he asked, “Ready are you?” “Yes, Master Yoda.” “Remember, stick the lift should, but the air circulation and cooling system should remain in tact.” “No problem.” The repairman went to work at the control box when a thought struck him. Turning to look at Yoda, he said, "Do you really think this is wise? I recall hearing that Kenobi has a problem with tight spaces." "Take care of him, his former master will." Yoda replied with certainty. Figuring the councilor had thought of everything, the man went back to work. The two Jedi stood in silence, their postures rigid and stiff. The lift jerked once, then twice. The motor stopped and the elevator ceased to move. Obi-Wan closed his eyes. the force hates me, he thought. Little did he know that that same sentiment had just been echoed in another’s mind. Qui-Gon reached over and pushed the buttons on the panel to the side of the door. When nothing happened, he opened the hatch above it and found that the comm. unit installed for emergencies was out of order. Slamming the hatch shut, he reached out to the force in search of his padawan in hope that Anakin would alert someone that the lift had stalled. When he came up against the apprentice's shields, he muttered some rather impressive curses. “I don’t think that will make the elevator move any sooner.” The amusement in the statement was quite obvious. Without looking at the other occupant, Qui-Gon replied, “It might.” Looking up, Obi-Wan noticed the trap door in the ceiling. “Give me a lift and I’ll see how close we are to the next floor.” Qui-Gon cocked an eyebrow in question. The younger man rolled his eyes in exasperation. “Yes, I could force jump, but since we only need to scout the area there’s no sense in overdoing it.” Cupping his hands together, Qui-Gon bent slightly in order for Obi-Wan to get his foot into the hold. When he had it, the young Knight held onto his shoulders for balance as the Jedi Master lifted him up. Releasing the other’s shoulders, Obi-Wan slid the door aside and pulled himself up with his arms, lifting the upper half his body outside of the elevator. When he was through enough to get a good look, he found that they were well between floors. Even a good force jump wouldn’t be enough to help them clear the distance to the next level. Lowering himself back down, he hung from the hatch before dropping the rest of the way. “The next floor's too high up.” He informed the other Jedi. “Were you able to contact Anakin?” Qui-Gon sighed. “No, his shields are up, which usually means he’d doing something he shouldn’t and my comm. link seems to be missing.” “Can you reach anyone?” Obi-Wan shook his head. “No. My comm. link is on the kitchen counter in my quarters, and bonds of friendship don't exactly behave as a telecommunicator; as you know. Feelings, sense of wrongness, maybe. Besides, Garen and Bant are out in the city today, and Siri and Reeft were sent on a courier run across planet. How about Master Yoda?” Feeling properly chastised for an innocent inquiry that he had not thought through, Qui-Gon replied to Obi-Wan's question concerning his old mentor. “He must be in a Council Meeting.” “Great.” The younger man briefly threw up his hands in frustration and then turned away from his former master to face the wall farthest from them. Qui-Gon noticed how the younger man subtly pulled at his collar as if it were too hot. The air circulation and cooling system had oddly remained on; the atmosphere was actually quite comfortable. Curious, he thought but didn't pursue the idea. And then he remembered; Obi-Wan hated small spaces. With the help of Master Healer Jace Alejandro, he was able to tolerate them when there was no other alternative but not for extensive periods of time. And their current circumstance was bound to involve an extended wait. Removing his cloak, hoping Obi-Wan would follow suit, Qui-Gon folded it and placed it on the floor near the left corner of the lift. From his peripheral, he noticed the younger man had also discarded his cloak and was now folding it. Qui-Gon then proceeded to remove his belt in order to make himself more comfortable, remembering a time long ago when healer Jace had made mention that if Obi-Wan were ever in a tight space, that removal of constricting items and clothing would help him feel less closed in. When the young Knight removed his belt and obi, unconsciously following his former mentor’s silent direction, Qui-Gon moved over to the corner and sat down on his robe. He then removed his tabards and outer tunic followed by his boots. Once Obi-Wan had removed his outer tunic and boots, he paced the small area that was now his to claim. Qui-Gon sat in his corner watching the man he had raised and helped to mold into the Jedi he had become. No, I can’t take all the credit, he thought with bitterness. Shaking off the resentment that had suddenly swelled within, he continued his silent observation of his former padawan. Obi-Wan’s hair was slightly longer but still shorter than most Knights, who coming out of apprenticeship tended to grow their hair longer just because they could. He was surprised that Obi-Wan had opted to keep a medium length, especially after all the complaints he had heard about the padawan cut. The only thing Obi-Wan had never complained of was the braid. He had held it in reverence of the partnership they had shared. Qui-Gon briefly wondered what had happened to it after the young man’s Knighting. A spark of hurt and anger erupted in the Jedi Master, causing him to forcibly steer his thoughts away from that particular subject. Harsh breaths broke Qui-Gon’s revere. Looking over to his colleague, he found him doubled over trying to breathe; one hand was pressed against the lift wall to maintain balance. Qui-Gon could feel the younger man trying to reach the force to calm his erratic thoughts and even out his breathing, but it was just out of his grasp. Noticing that the young man hadn’t asked for his help, Qui-Gon decided to take it upon himself to help his former student bring himself back under control. Just as he was about to approach the young Knight, his mind couldn’t help but think of how many times he had had to do this in the past. The young Jedi felt a hand on his shoulder, but his mind couldn’t comprehend the gesture only that it felt familiar, safe. Another hand moved in circles about his back, soothing, rhythmic, bringing back the sensation of being cared for. He subconsciously leaned into the touch, his lungs burning for air that his body couldn’t quite bring in. He was hot, it was too hot; sweat trickled down the side of his face. He heard a deep voice calmly urging him to relax, to take it slow, to take one breath at a time. He tried, he really did try, but his respiratory system wouldn’t cooperate. He began to panic, his heart beating too fast and too hard within his chest. Turning, he reached out with trembling hands, grabbing fist fulls of the material he blindly found in front of him. Qui-Gon allowed the contact, remembering how the young man needed something tangible to feel grounded during these attacks. He wondered how Obi-Wan had handled these episodes since becoming a Knight. Shaking off the thought, he grasped the sides of the younger man’s face and lifted it so they met eye to eye. The sea colored gaze looking back at him was wild and unfocused, but held his nonetheless. “Breathe, Padawan.” When the other made a disgruntled noise, Qui-Gon tightened his grasp. “I know you don’t like being called that, especially by me, but until this passes you’ll have to put up with it. Now watch me and do what I do.” Qui-Gon breathed in deep, slow, even breaths. The younger man struggled to copy his example. “That’s it. Slow and even. Concentrate on my voice, Padawan. That’s it.” He loosened one of Obi-Wan’s hands from his tunic and placed it over his chest. “Do you feel it: deep, even, rhythmic breaths, slow and even." The hand beneath his rose and fell as the chest beneath it took long deep breaths. Little did the Jedi Master know, it was the recurring heartbeat beneath the smaller hand that helped to steady the younger man more than the steady rise and fall of the cavity surrounding it. The two stayed that way until the younger man calmed and his breathing returned to normal. Once his former padawan regained control, Qui-Gon asked, “Better?” When Obi-Wan nodded, his former mentor stepped back to give him room. Knowing that the younger man needed something to keep his mind off their current situation, Qui-Gon began reminiscing about past missions. Obi-Wan sat down on his cloak and pulled his knees to his chest, his eyes taking in their surroundings. Sitting down, Qui-Gon clapped his hands once to gain the other’s attention. An hour into their confinement, Qui-Gon purposely misconstrued an event in hopes of getting some kind of response from his former padawan. When he received no rebuttal, the Jedi Master took a deep breath and decided to confront the issue that seemed to suck the air from the room around them. “I remember arriving at the Council chambers the day of your Knighting Ceremony to find it empty. I waited for some time before deciding to seek you out. I was informed by the Council page that you had been sent on a mission that very morning. It was later that Mace told me you had already been Knighted.” His voice was calm and steady, but the hurt and anger over the situation could be heard in the underlying currents. Qui-Gon waited. After some time, he was about to give up when he heard the quiet cultured voice from across the lift. “I rescheduled the ceremony for the day before.” “No one informed me, or I would have been there.” Blue eyes met Qui-Gon’s. “I didn’t want you there.” “Why?” The hurt in the Master’s voice was evident. Obi-Wan was silent for so long that Qui-Gon thought he wouldn’t answer, so he continued. “I looked forward to that day as much as you did. I had a right to be there, Padawan.” “I’m not your Padawan! Why do you insist on calling me that?” “Because nothing else gets a response!” Obi-Wan shifted his position. “I wanted to hurt you! Is that what you want to hear? I wanted you to feel what you made me feel when you pushed me aside for Anakin.” “I didn’t discard you, Obi-Wan. You were ready for your trials. Anakin’s arrival was merely the conduit that forced me to face it, forced me to let you move on.” “And you think I wanted to find out like that? You humiliated me! You made me feel like I was back on that transport to Bandomeer; you made me feel as worthless as I felt when Tahl died and you turned away from me. I just wanted you to feel half of what I’ve been through.” Qui-Gon swallowed…his throat tight with understanding. “You succeeded.” X The following hours were filled with silence. Obi-Wan kept his eyes closed, imagining he were anywhere but in the tight space that seemed to be closing in around him. -----signature----- Update 10/2/08- Chap. 40- Life Beyond the Code (Obi-Wan/Anakin) - http://boards.theforce.net/The_Saga/b10476/20820324 Update 11/12/08- Chap. 27 - Not Myself - (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon/Oc's) - Before the Saga Update 9/3/08 - Part 6 - Strength to Begin Anew
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
monkeykelci Registered: Apr '08	Date Posted: 5/26 2:52pm Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 2 of 3 - 5/26/08
	Gah! I just want to reach out and hug poor Obi-Wan.. He and Qui need to settle this.. It's not going to get any better for either of them 'till they do. I loved it, Bek! Very nice update! -----signature----- Hockey players wear numbers because you can’t always identify the body with dental records. Padawan Learner to Oddball_62!! =]
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Valairy_Scot Title: PT Rewrite Winner Registered: Sep '05	Date Posted: 5/26 3:09pm Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 2 of 3 - 5/26/08
	This is so wonderful and so human and I love every word of it. “Remember, stick the lift should, but the air circulation and cooling system should remain in tact.” “No problem.” The repairman went to work at the control box when a thought struck him. Turning to look at Yoda, he said, "Do you really think this is wise? I recall hearing that Kenobi has a problem with tight spaces." "Take care of him, his former master will." Yoda replied with certainty. Figuring the councilor had thought of everything, the man went back to work. Devious that Yoda is - and I love it. He felt a hand on his shoulder, but his mind couldn’t comprehend the gesture only that it felt familiar, safe. Another hand moved in circles about his back, soothing, rhythmic, bringing back the sensation of being cared for. He subconsciously leaned into the touch, his lungs burning for air that his body couldn’t quite bring in. So there's hope after all. “Breathe, Padawan.” When the other made a disgruntled noise, Qui-Gon tightened his grasp. “I know you don’t like being called that, especially by me, but until this passes you’ll have to put up with it. Now watch me and do what I do.” ... “I’m not your Padawan! Why do you insist on calling me that?” “Because nothing else gets a response!” Yeah, and wonder why? It still means something to them both, it does, that's why. Obi-Wan shifted his position. “I wanted to hurt you! Is that what you want to hear? I wanted you to feel what you made me feel when you pushed me aside for Anakin.” “I didn’t discard you, Obi-Wan. You were ready for your trials. Anakin’s arrival was merely the conduit that forced me to face it, forced me to let you move on.” “And you think I wanted to find out like that? You humiliated me! You made me feel like I was back on that transport to Bandomeer; you made me feel as worthless as I felt when Tahl died and you turned away from me. I just wanted you to feel half of what I’ve been through.” It's about time Qui-Gon understands how his words affected Obi-Wan - really understands from Obi-Wan's perspective. I think this may become one of my favorite stories on the boards. Not one false emotion or word out of place, just two people who love each other and so can really hurt one another - and perhaps with the help of a devious Jedi master - heal each other. -----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
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
dianethx Registered: Mar '02	Date Posted: 5/26 4:25pm Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 2 of 3 - 5/26/08
	Poor Obi-Wan and poor Qui-Gon. I liked that Qui-Gon admitted that the scene in the Council chamber forced him to realize that Obi should be knighted. Sounds like he didn't want to let his 'son' go and it made things more awkward and painful. The ones you love are often those who can hurt you the most. I also liked that Obi-Wan admitted he wanted to hurt Qui-Gon. But it's time for both of them to let it go and hopefully regain a little of what they had together. Good 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
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
charie Registered: Oct '07	Date Posted: 5/26 11:32pm Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 2 of 3 - 5/26/08
	Perfect! I felt so much for them both. They really love each other like a father and son and are both hurt and angry with each other. It was funny also! Yoda is up to his tricks. I could see you make this a BIG series in this AU. Hint. Hint. All I can say is MORE MORE MORE! please! ( I'm glad there is no mention of a beard )
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History
Gkilkenny Registered: Mar '04	Date Posted: 5/27 3:57am Subject: RE: Strength to Begin Anew (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon) - Part 2 of 3 - 5/26/08
	Their confinement in the lift thanks to Yoda, may get them talking. Nevertheless, if Yoda doesn't rescue them soon. They might begin to fight. The tension is in the air. Beautifully written -----signature----- Padawan to p_stotts Peace over anger - honour over hate - Strength over fear. Links to Stories in my Bio. Obi-Wan forever.
	Post Reply \| Quote Reply \| Active Topic Notification \| Private Message \| Post History

Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 - ~~Previous~~ | Next | Reload

Jedi Council Forums » Fan Fiction » The Saga »