Tahl always enjoyed mixing into the crowds on coruscant. Although she was accustomed to being blind she sometimes allowed herself to feel remorse that she couldn't see the beauty of the galaxy any more.
The energy surrounding the art festival was electric; she could hear music playing off to the left. She tugged at Qui Gon's arms to direct him. Although she resented needing his arm to aid her, she did admit that it did come in handy when he needed to be pushed in a direction he didn't particularly want to go.
"Can you see him?" Tahl asked. Qui Gon made a non committal sound at the back of his throat, annoyed Tahl nudged him and repeated her question. Qui Gon took a deep breath and finally replied.
"No. But Obi Wan isn't the only one on display today; there are hundreds of talented artists here today"
"But if we're honest, Obi Wan is the person we came to see" Tahl said tartly.
"Hmm"
Tahl smiled.
She sensed the familiar presence of Obi Wan and headed towards it, dragging Qui Gon with her, her extraordinary strength enabled her to manhandle the Jedi master into following her.
"Obi Wan, hello"
Obi Wan's warm voice greeted her and then turned slightly less personal as he greeted Qui Gon.
"You are a fine artist, Obi Wan" Qui Gon commented. Obi Wan had only a few works on display but he could see just how talented Obi Wan was.
"Thank you" he shrugged amiably. "It passes the time"
"Yeah and it'll just so happen get you you're degree" the new voice belonged to a girl Obi Wan's age whose vivid gold coloured hair was lit by the artificial suns of Coruscant.
"I hope" Obi Wan corrected her gently.
"Oh please, you're the best artist in your class and we all know it" the girl scoffed. Qui Gon noted his blush and was pleased to see that Obi Wan retained his humility.
He looked Obi Wan over. The boy had grown slightly, more muscled and tall, his face was full and healthy and he had colour in his cheeks. He seemed to have grown into his skin and seemed at ease with himself and those around him. And with his decision.
In his most private heart, Qui Gon had hoped Obi Wan would have seen the error of his ways and come home, but seeing his here, happy and successful he knew he was being selfish. The boy deserved this life.
Qui Gon studied his artwork. The young girl beside Obi Wan was in the picture, he was glad that Obi Wan drew from his life experiences and not just copied another artists works.
"I'm very proud of your achievements Obi Wan, you will make a fine artist"
"Thank you"
Qui Gon bowed to both of them. "It was an honour to see your work today Obi Wan and I hope you will continue the standard"
"I will see you again soon" Tahl promised as Qui Gon took her arm once again.
When they were alone, Syl turned to Obi Wan.
"Well that wasn't too bad, huh?"
Obi Wan smiled at his friends optimism "No Syl, it wasn't so bad"