Title: A Vision of Truth

Author: Ruyn- [email protected]

Time Frame: Obi-Wan is 14

Spoilers: None that I can think of…unless you haven't read any of the JA books then yes there are some ^_^.

Rating: PG- there is some violence but nothing major.

Summary: Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon are sent to a strange planet. They return hurt and tired but their mission was a success…or was it? Can a dream really for tell the future? Does more trouble await them? And if so from where?

Disclaimer: Do I look like a George to you? Well at least I don't have the beard or the male factor hehehe. Anyway, I don't own Obi-Wan or Qui-Gon or that cute little Yoda, but all the other characters are happily mine….or at least I hope they are *scratches head* Read and Enjoy and PLEASE review!!!

A Vision of Truth

Qui-Gon Jinn tapped his thumbs quietly upon the terrace railing. He let his gaze travel across the cities horizon. The sun was setting and Coruscant always looked beautiful at this time of day. He could remember standing in the same spot as a young boy, marveling at the beauty of a sun set. A small transport pod buzzed by, and Qui-Gon watched it pass. A soft breeze blew, bringing the scent of burning fuel and thruster emissions. To anyone else these smells might seem offending but to Qui-Gon they were familiar and comforting. Taking one last glance at the vast city before him, Qui-Gin walked inside.

He walked over to a chair and sat down. Closing his eyes, he called upon the force to sooth his nerves. Yoda had recently sent him and his Padawan Obi-Wan Kenobi on a rather tiring mission. The Planet had been Corath, the mission to bring order to a place in chaos. The planet had been in a constant state of war fare ever since it's king Basilisk had died unexpectedly seven years ago. All though Chamarlen, Corath's Ambassador, had stepped in as the planets temporary ruler, there was only so much the Algot leader had been able to accomplish. Meetings had been called, discussions had been held , treaties had been signed. Qui-Gon had done everything within his power as a Jedi to bring peace to the people of Corath but still high tension filled the air. And not only that his Padawan had been hurt in the process.

Qui-Gon sighed in frustration. Obi-Wan was with the healers of the Temple at the moment. The medical supplies on Corath, if any could be found at all, were extremely inadequate for what was happening to the tiny planet. Qui-Gon had no doubt that Yoda would send them back to monitor the planets progress and he wasn't looking forward to the event. His mind drifted to a particular moment; a meeting that should have ended peacefully, but instead ended in pain. A frown creased his forehead.

" Master?" Qui- Gon looked down at his Padawan. There were dark smudges under his eyes from not enough sleep.

"Yes Obi-Wan?"

" Do you think this will really work?"

Qui-Gon knew Obi-Wan was referring to the meeting that was about to take place.. He wanted to say yes, that he was confident everything would work out, but he wasn't. The hatred on this planet was strong and long lived. No one would except the death of their beloved King and every one blamed each other for his untimely demise. Qui-Gon knew if he couldn't get the people of Corath to sign a peace treaty they were doomed. Yoda had made it very clear that if things didn't clear up in three weeks that Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were to return to Coruscant. Today would mark the end of the three weeks. A transport was going to pick them up later in the evening but Qui- Gon had been determined to make one final attempt.

Qui-Gon looked squarely at Obi-Wan. "I'm not sure Obi-Wan. Yoda said it could be done, we can only hope it can in three weeks."

" Yes master." Obi-Wan didn't like the situation Qui-Gon and himself had been put in. He understood that Yoda had good reason for sending them there but still. He couldn't help but have the feeling that…

"Ah Jedi. So it was you who set up this little get together."

Obi-Wan's thoughts were interrupted. He turned around and saw a tall green form ,dressed in regal robes of red, standing in the door way of the conference hall. The people of Corath had green scaly skin to help them with the planets hot moist climate. The whole planet was one giant swamp and Obi-Wan thought the people resembled lizards. The only place that wasn't run over with swamp water was the planets only city. Chorai wasn't very grand but it was huge. The buildings were all of a simple design, most not exceeding two floors. In fact the Empyreal Ambassador's Hall was the largest building in the city; it had over six floors.

Qui-Gon went to greet the tall Algot, the name the people of Corath had given themselves. " Ambassador. Yes it was me who arranged this meeting. I still have hopes of bringing peace to your people."

" Peace? Ha!" The lizard like creature walked into the room, his long tail trailing behind. "The Algots haven't lived in peace in over six years. You think you will be able to join us together in harmony by having a meeting? I laugh at you Jedi. Corath's rains will stop falling before peace claims its people!"

" We shall see." Qui-Gon kept his tone as neutral as possible but couldn't help thinking that the Algot was right. Suddenly, more green forms came into the room. Well, no more time for doubts. Qui-Gon waited for everyone to take their seats. Motioning for Obi-Wan to stand beside him, he began his speech.

" People of Corath, the fighting must stop…"

"Qui-Gon?"

Qui-Gon was startled out his thoughts. He opened his eyes and saw the familiar form of a woman in white robes. Gandje La'Nor had been a healer at the Jedi Temple for years. Her blond hair was tied back in a braided bun accenting the curves of her face. Qui-Gon looked into her eyes. They were a warm shade of amber and usually filled with love and caring. But now, Qui-Gon noticed something else in the warm depths…concern? It couldn't possibly be for him, then it had to be for…

"Obi-Wan?" Qui-Gon tried to hold down his growing anxiety.

" Resting. You may see him now if you like."

Qui-Gon got up and walked over to the petite woman. There was something she wasn't telling him, he could sense it. " What's wrong?"

Gandje swallowed hard before answering. "His wound was rather severe. We've managed to stop the flow of blood and kneed the flesh back together. But…but because the wound remained unhealed for a long period of time a fever has set in."

Qui-Gon's heart sank at the news. He had known the wound was serious on Corath but with the lack of medical supplies there had only been so much Qui-Gon had been able to do for the boy. " How long will it take for the fever to break?"

" It's hard to say. We should know for sure come morning."

Qui-Gon nodded and put a reassuring hand on the woman's shoulder. "Thank you."

He walked out of the room and down the hallway. He continued down until he came to a door near the end. Before going in Qui-Gon closed his eyes and reached out to his Padawan with the force. A few moments passed before he felt it. A small ripple. It was his Padawan's life force, weak but there. Qui-Gon took a deep breath and opened the door. He walked quietly into the room and shut the door behind him. It was white with a large window looking out over Coruscant. The room was sparse save for a bed and a chair next to it. Qui-Gon walked slowly over to the bed and gazed down at his young apprentice. One would have thought he was resting peacefully if it wasn't for the sheen of sweat covering the boy's face. Qui-Gon placed a hand on Obi-Wan's forehead. Hot. Very hot.

Suddenly Obi-Wan began to move about restlessly. "Rest my Padawan." The boys head turned toward Qui-Gon. Instantly he calmed down and was once again resting peacefully. Qui-Gon smiled. Even with a fever Obi-Wan was obedient. Noticing the chair by the bed, Qui-Gon pulled it closer and sat down. He would remain with Obi-Wan until the fever broke. Yoda would most likely inquirer after the boys condition but Qui-Gon would let Gandje deliver the information. His Padawan needed him right now besides he didn't want to leave until he was sure Obi-Wan would be alright.

Qui-Gon looked up from his constant vigil as the door to Obi-Wan's room opened. Gandje walked into the room with a bundle of blankets in her arms. " I thought you might have need of these," she said with a smile.

Qui-Gon sat forward and realized how stiff his back was. He stood up and stretched, trying to work out the kinks in his muscles. " Yes thank you."

Gandje placed the blankets on the floor and walked over to Obi-Wan. She placed a hand on his forehead. "How is he? Any change?"

Qui-Gon's face grew solemn, "No. The fever still rages on."

Gandje frowned. She had hoped the boy would get better as the night wore on. If the fever didn't break soon Obi-Wan was in real danger of not making it. Of course she wasn't about to tell Qui-Gon that. If he wasn't already aware of the seriousness of the boys condition, he probably had enough on his mind. Gandje looked at the Jedi Master. He was aging that was clear but Gandje could tell he still held the same spirit he had had when he was a young Jedi Knight. She looked closer at his face. What concern lay within his cool blue eyes. Did he care so much for the young Jedi? Gandje hoped so. She had seen what Xanatos's betrayal had done to the Jedi Master. She had hated seeing Qui-Gon in pain. He had always been so nice to everyone. Gandje took another look at the sleeping boy. Get well Obi-Wan. Get well soon. Your Master needs you more than you know.

" Notify me if there is any change."

" I will."

" Would you like me to bring you something to eat? You must be starving."

"No thank you."

"Very well. I'll check on him in the morning. Goodnight Qui-Gon."

"Goodnight."

Qui-Gon watched as Gandje left the room. After the door closed he picked up the blankets and made a small bed on the floor. Once everything was in place, Qui-Gon took his place back in the chair. He gazed at Obi-Wan's sleeping form. They had been together for two years now. Their relationship was still a little bumpy at times but Qui-Gon had come to care very much for the boy. Though Obi-Wan had the bad habit of getting into awkward situations and was always keeping Qui-Gon on his toes, the boy had a determination the Jedi Master had not seen in many students. Obi-Wan still had much to learn, but Qui-Gon was sure he would make a fine Jedi Knight one day.

The hours crawled by; Qui-Gon could hear the students turning in for the night. He could imagine the lights of the Temple slowly turning off, one by one. Qui-Gon covered his mouth as a yawn caught him by surprise. Perhaps it was time he turned in as well. He shrugged off his Jedi robe and laid it carefully over the chair. Turning back the covers of his makeshift bed, he started to lie down but then stopped. Standing back up he turned to Obi-Wan. Placing a hand over one of Obi-Wan's, he whispered quietly, "Goodnight Obi-Wan."

Once again the boys head turned towards him. Qui-Gon smiled warmly. He reluctantly let his hand drop to his side and went to bed.

Qui-Gon sat up abruptly. Something had woken him up. He threw back the covers and stood up. Sun light poured in through the window and the Temple was alive with noise from its many occupants. Qui-Gon concentrated. Something had disturbed his sleep and had been strong enough wake him up. Something was wrong, he could sense it. Suddenly he caught movement out of the corner of his eye. He gazed down at Obi-Wan. His head was moving about restlessly. He looked closely at the boy's face, searching for any sign that the fever was breaking, for any signs of change. There was something… a bright red flush was in Obi-Wan's cheeks that hadn't been there before.

" So the fever has gotten worse." Qui-Gon released a far from steady breath. Right at that moment, as though in response to what Qui-Gon had just said, Obi-Wan released a weak moan of pain. Qui-Gon closed his eyes. That one sound was more painful than any physical wound. A feeling of helplessness had begun to take shape the night before and was growing stronger with each passing moment.

" How is he?"

Qui-Gon whirled around to find Gandje standing in the room. He hadn't even heard her come in, a bad mistake for a Jedi Master. " His fever has gotten worse."

Gandje frowned. Worse? She had hoped the fever would have gone down by the morning. She walked over to the bed and placed a cool hand on the boys forehead. She also noticed a slight red flush to Obi-Wan's cheeks that hadn't been there the night before. Force! she thought, the fever has gotten worse. I need to do something and fast. But what? Gandje racked her brain for a possible remedy that would bring the fever down and quickly. Then it hit her. It's a long shot but it's better than nothing.

" I need to get some medical supplies but I will return shortly." Gandje turned to face the Jedi standing beside her. There was such distress in the man's eyes. She offered a smile of reassurance. " I'll get that fever down Qui-Gon, don't worry. I'll be right back." I hope this works, she thought and rushed out of the room.

Not fifteen minutes later, Gandje walked back into the room carrying a need and a bottle of clear liquid. Qui-Gon watched quietly as she prepared the needle and injected the serum into Obi-Wan's arm. " That should help to bring the fever down." Gandje placed the needle and bottle into a pocket within her robes. Qui-Gon expected her to leave, thinking she had other duties. When she didn't move, he gazed at her curiously.

Gandje hesitated. She knew Qui-Gon would not want to leave Obi-Wan's side but while she had been getting the serum a messenger had told her the Jedi Council was requesting Qui-Gon's presence. He could not refuse an audience with the council, it would be disrespectful.

" Qui-Gon…the Jedi Council has requested an audience with you."

Qui-Gon stiffened, " Why?"

" I wasn't told why, only that they must speak with you."

Qui-Gon glanced out the window. He didn't want to leave Obi-Wan. What if something happened while he was gone? Still he could not refuse an audience with the council, no matter what condition his Padawan was in. He looked down at Obi-Wan's restless form. Please, was the only word he could think of.

" Very well. I'll return as soon as I can."

" Don't worry about Obi-Wan Qui-Gon, I'll watch over him."

" I know." Qui-Gon walked out of the room and away from Obi-Wan with a heavy heart, but still possessing all the grace a Jedi Master could muster.

Gandje just smiled.

* * *

Qui-Gon stood before the doors of the Jedi Council room. He needed to calm his nerves before entering. The members of the Jedi Council were extremely observant and could see through even the strongest of creatures. Qui-Gon did not want to be reprimanded for being distracted by the condition of his Padawan. Taking a deep breath he entered the chamber.

Expecting to see the twelve faces that made up the council, Qui-Gon was surprised to see only the small loan figure of Yoda. His sleepy eyes gazed up at Qui-Gon expectantly.

" Glad to see you I am."

" And I you Master." Qui-Gon walked forward and bowed before the Jedi Master.

" Peace has claimed Corath?"

" Yes, but tension is still strong."

" Ah yes. Expect this the council did. Send you back soon we must."

Qui-Gon stiffened slightly. Return soon? Without Obi-Wan?

Yoda's ears lifted slightly as he studied the Jedi before him. " How is Obi-Wan?"

Qui-Gon closed his eyes for a second. He should have known he wouldn't be able to hide his distress from someone as tuned into the force as Yoda. " The fever has gotten worse but Gandje La'Nor has given him a serum that should bring it down."

" Happy to hear this I am. Strong is the force in him … He will survive."

" Of course Master."

Yoda's eyes narrowed slightly. " Anxious to return to him you are Qui-Gon Jinn. Sense that you care for Obi-Was I do. Pleased am I." The old Master walked over to a window, his cane tapping lightly on the floor. He gazed at the city for a moment then turned back to Qui-Gon. "Decided the council has. When young Obi-Wan is well enough, return to Corath you shall."

"Yes master."

" Be careful Qui-Gon Jinn. Clouded in darkness is Corath's future. Bringing light is the only path to true peace."

Qui-Gon nodded. He wasn't pleased with the idea of returning to the tiny planet so soon. The mission was going to be difficult and no doubt quite unpleasant. He looked at Yoda waiting for him to say more. The small Jedi Master stared right back. Then his sleepy eyes closed for a moment and Qui- Gon heard a soft sigh. When the eyes reopened they looked at Qui-Gon calmly.

" Go to Obi-Wan. Call you again the council will."

" Yes Master. Thank you."

" May the force be with you Qui-Gon Jinn."

" And also with you Master.'

Qui-Gon walked out of the room as calmly as his concern for Obi-Wan would allow. He was anxious to return to his Padawan's side and see if the serum was having any affect. As he walked down the silent hallway he passed a door leading out into a large indoor garden. Stopping to glance at the many plants inside, the sweet fragrance of flowers in bloom floated up to his nose. The garden seemed to call to him and he couldn't help but wonder inside. He walked up and down the gardens many isles, admiring the alien plants and flowers. Some Qui-Gon recognized immediately, others were foreign to him. One particular plant caught his attention. He walked over and smelled the plants sweet yet peculiar odor. Leaning down, Qui-Gon read the small brass plaque in front of the plant.

The Canary Fire Blossom

Native to Corath this small vine like plant blooms

for three months during the spring season. The fire

red blossoms bloom for one day giving off an unusual,

sweet hypnotic scent.

Now Qui-Gon knew why the plant had caught his attention. He remembered seeing it on many of the trees in Chorai. Qui-Gon gazed at the dark red flowers covering the small vine. He sighed sadly. The blossoms served only to remind him of Corath's dark past and of the mission ahead. His heart heavy, Qui-Gon made his way toward the garden's door.

" There you are." Gandje stood in the hallway, her amber eyes gleaming brightly. " They told me you had left over an hour ago."

"An hour ago? I guess I lost track of time."

Gandje smiled, " The gardens can do that to you. When you didn't return I thought you must have been detained and came looking for you."

" Is everything alright?" Qui-Gon asked, his thoughts drifting back to Obi- Wan.

" Yes. In fact Obi-Wan has just woken up. The serum worked, the fever has come down."

Qui-Gon frowned slightly, " But hasn't gone away."

" No, but I'm confident it will by later this evening."

Qui-Gon's heart soured at the news. Obi-Wan would be alright.

" He was asking for you. He is still very weak and he can't talk much but…'

" Thank you."

" My pleasure."

Gandje watched as the tall Jedi Master walked down the hallway. A smile broke out across her face. " Thank you Obi-Wan. Thank you for living."

Sith his head hurt! As did every other muscle in his body. Obi-Wan opened his eyes and looked about the room. He was alone now and took the opportunity to take in his surroundings. He knew he was on Coruscant, he remembered arriving at the Temple. What he didn't know was how long he had been there. Continuing his lazy glance of the room, Obi-Wan noticed a pile of blankets siting on a chair next to his bed. Thinking they were for him, he didn't pay them much attention.

Oh, he was so thirsty. The woman, who had called herself Gandje, had left before Obi-Wan could ask her for a glass of water. He had merely inquired where Qui-Gon was and the woman had rushed off to find him. What he wouldn't give for a nice cool glass of water. Obi-Wan would have gotten up to get it himself, except every time he lifted his head the room would begin to spin. He had managed to find out that he had just gotten over the worst of a rather severe fever. But it hadn't disappeared completely so he was to remain where he was. As if I could move!!

Obi-Wan moaned and closed his eyes. The annoying pounding in his head was sending a scorching heat all through his body. It was like being in a gigantic oven and slowly being cooked. How I hate fevers! He tried to call upon the force to help with the pain, as he had been taught to do, but he couldn't quite grasp it.

" You're too weak, my young apprentice."

Obi-Wan opened his eyes at the familiar voice. " Master?" He winced as his voice cracked inside his dry throat.

" Don't speak, save your strength." Qui-Gon walked over to the bed and placed a hand on Obi-Wan's forehead. The movement was beginning to feel like second nature to the Jedi Master. "Much cooler. The fever is almost gone." He watched as Obi-Wan swallowed convulsively, each time making the boy wince. " Would you like something to drink?"

Obi-Wan nodded. He watched eagerly as Qui-Gon called down for a pitcher of water and a glass to pour it in. Almost immediately there was soft knock at the door. A droid stood waiting, pitcher in hand. Mumbling a swift 'Thank you' Qui-Gon dismissed the woman and closed the door. He poured the water into the glass and carried it over to the bed. Holding up Obi-Wan's head ,he brought the cup up to his lips.

Obi-Wan gulped the sweet liquid. It felt so good on his dry throat. He nodded when he'd had enough and Qui-Gon lowered his head to the pillow. At least his throat felt better, now if he could only do something about this fever.

" I've spoken with Master Yoda."

Obi-Wan gazed at Qui-Gon curiously, his attention caught. Why would Qui- Gon need to speak to Master Yoda? " About what Master?"

Qui-Gon looked at Obi-Wan and frowned, then glanced away. A thought entered Obi-Wan's mind. Have I displeased him in some way? Maybe I did something wrong and he is angry with me? Or…Obi-Wan felt his heart skip a beat…Or maybe he is going to dismiss me. After two years of being Master and Padawan, Obi-Wan hoped not. He liked Qui-Gon, both as a Master and a trusted friend. Though his behavior may not have been the best on Corath, and he had acted impulsively and maybe even a little rash, he hoped that wasn't reason enough for Qui-Gon to dismiss him. The Jedi looked back at him and Obi-Wan quickly scanned his face for any signs of anger or irritation. But he saw nothing; like always Qui-Gon's face was impossible to read.

Qui-Gon took a deep breath before speaking. He knew Obi-Wan wouldn't like the news any better than he did. "He wished to hear of our progress on Corath. He was pleased to hear that the Algots have agreed to peace but has decided, along with the rest of the council, to send us back as soon as you are strong enough."

Though Obi-Wan tried, he found it hard to hide his relief. He wasn't pleased with the idea of going back to the war stricken planet but at least Qui-Gon wasn't upset with him.

Qui-Gon gave Obi-Wan a confused glance. " You seem pleased to be returning to Corath."

" No Master. I am merely pleased to find out that I have not upset you in some way."

" Upset me?" Now Qui-Gon was really confused. Had Obi-Wan thought he had spoken to Yoda about him? Qui-Gon studied his Padawan. He looked into Obi- Wan's cool green eyes and was amazed at what he saw. Fear? Of what? Then it dawned on him. Could Obi-wan have thought he had spoken to Yoda about dismissing him. Qui-Gon couldn't believe it. He had been displeased with Obi-Wan's actions on Corath, even a little upset. After all, the boy had acted impulsively and such actions had caused problems in the past but that was no reason to have him dismissed. No great harm was done and the mission had been a success. " No Obi-Wan you haven't upset me. And you must never think that you could upset me enough for me to dismiss you as my Padawan. Forgiveness and understanding are a way of life. We must except them or anger will consume us. Nothing can be done than can't be forgiven."

Except betrayal, Obi-Wan thought sadly. There were many things about his Master Obi-Wan had yet to understand. Qui-Gon was a man of few words and Obi-Wan was often left on his own to figure out what he was thinking. His Master had a dark past, one in which he had been bitterly betrayed. Obi- Wan knew Qui-Gon still felt the pain of that betrayal, he could some times see in his eyes when he looked at him. Obi-Wan also knew that he would do everything he could to keep Qui-Gon from feeling that pain again.

A bunch of emotions had played across Obi-Wan's face. Qui-Gon wondered what the boy was thinking. He was about to ask when Obi-Wan suddenly yawned loudly. Qui-Gon smiled and chuckled softly. " I think it is time you went back to sleep my Padawan. You will need your full strength for the journey ahead."

" Yes, Master." Obi-Wan closed his eyes and was asleep almost instantly.

Four Days Later:

" Obi-Wan, I would like you to meet Anal Ki. She will be helping you regain your strength."

Obi-Wan looked at the girl standing next to Qui-Gon. She appeared to be the same height as him and around the same age. At first glance, Obi-Wan had thought her human. She had the same complexion as a human, maybe a little pale but nothing out of the ordinary. Her hair, which was an alarming shade of red, was tied back in a tight braid and hung over her left shoulder. The tunic and pants she was wearing were simple enough. Beige in color they looked to be worn more for comfort than style. A dark cloak surrounded her shoulders and it swayed as she walked towards him. It wasn't until Anal stood right in front of him that Obi-Wan noticed the peculiar shade of her eyes. They were violet with a slight fleck of gold in the middle. Another aspect of her face startled Obi-Wan. There was a blue jeweled moon resting between her eyebrows. He smiled a hello, temporally unable to speak.

" Well I think I will let the two of you get aquatinted." Qui-Gon left the room and an awkward silence followed.

Obi-Wan wasn't sure what to say. He suddenly wished Qui-Gon hadn't left . Well, I guess a hello is a good start. " Ah…hello. So you are going to be helping me regain my strength."

Anal looked at him and smiled, " Yes, your Master told me you have just recovered from a real bad fever."

" Yeah. It wasn't much fun I can tell you that. So…What do we do first?"

" Well, nothing to stressful…how about we start with a massage then try standing up. Sound good?"

"Sure." Obi-Wan threw back the covers. He rolled his pants up to the knee and watched quietly as Anal began massaging his right calf. Her hands felt smooth and soft. When she reached for the other leg, light reflected of something at her waist. Obi-Wan looked down and was surprised to see what looked liked a lightsaber dangling from her belt.

" You're a Jedi aren't you?"

" Yes. I have been a Padawan for three years."

" Really? I've been one for two. Who is your Master?"

" Her name is Kauli Brinate. I'm her second Padawan but that really doesn't make much difference. We're pretty close, we discovered through our time together that we have a lot in common. She says she has high hopes for me, I only hope I continue to live up her high expectations."

Obi-Wan smiled. She sounds a lot like me talking about Qui-Gon. He watched her rub her hands up and down his leg,. She certainly was a good masseuse. Then he noticed something. The cloak she was wearing didn't resemble a Jedi robe in the least. " Where is your Jedi robe?"

Anal winced and a strained smile came to her face. " That's an interesting story."

" Tell me, I have plenty of time on my hands."

Anal smiled and rolled her eyes, " I bet you do. Anyway I'm not wearing my robe because I lost it."

" You lost it?!" A Jedi robe was sacred to a Jedi, almost as important as his lightsaber. Obi-Wan couldn't imagine loosing his.

" Yeah. My Master and I were just on a very interesting mission. We were discussing waste disposal with a people called the Crepitts," Anal scrunched up her nose and shook her head, " Believe me the planet stunk. Anyway we were in their conference room and is was stifling hot. The planet had a very hot climate and there was no way I was going to be able to keep my robe on without passing out from heat exhaustion. Kauli said I could leave my robe on a chair by the door, that it would be safe. After all who would want a cloak with a climate like that. Well, as it turned out someone did. When the conference was over and I went to retrieve my robe, it was gone. We looked every where but couldn't find it. Kauli is going to request another one for me but I know I'm going to receive a reprimanding from the Council for my carelessness. But I guess that's the way it goes. We can only learn from our mistakes not change them."

Now it was Obi-Wan's turn to wince. "You sound just like Qui-Gon."

Anal looked up from her task intrigued. " Speaking of your Master, what is he like? I have heard many stories."

" He's…unusual." Obi-Wan sighed. Unusual didn't even begin to describe Qui- Gon.

Anal looked at Obi-Wan confused. " You don't sound to happy about that."

" It's not that I don't like him , I respect him greatly. He has a lot of knowledge to share with me and I am more than willing to receive it…"

"But-?"

"We've been together for two years and haven't achieved the ultimate bond between a Master and a Padawan." Obi-Wan looked down at the bed covers. This was the first time he had put his fears to words and told some one. He couldn't explain why he was telling Anal all this, but for some reason he trusted her.

Anal looked at Obi-Wan sympathetically. Although he hadn't said it, she could see that he cared very much for his Master and wanted more than anything to connect with him. He seemed so eager to please Qui-Gon and to have him approve of him, she couldn't imagine that Qui-Gon didn't see this or was as cold as Obi-Wan was implying. She remembered the conversation she had had with the Jedi Master about Obi-Wan's condition and what needed to be done. There had been respect in the older man's voice but that was to be expected. What Anal wanted to know was did Qui-Gon care for Obi-Wan the way the boy obviously cared for him? I'll have to watch him when they are together, she thought. Wanting to reassure Obi-Wan, she placed a hand on his shoulder. " Don't worry Obi-Wan. I'm sure the two of you will connect , it just takes time. Well, I'm done with your massage, how about standing up?"

Obi-Wan shrugged his shoulders, "Sure, why not." He swung his legs over the side of the bed and with Anal's help, hopped onto the floor. He would have fallen if she hadn't been there but Obi-Wan tried not to let that get him down. He needed to get his strength back as soon as possible.

" Good, you're standing. Do you think you could try taking a step?"

" It's worth a shot." Leaning on Anal's arm and one of his own spread out for balance, Obi-Wan took a small step.

" That's great! How about another one?"

With Anal's help Obi-Wan managed to walk half way across the room before having to stop for a rest. His muscles felt stiff and weak, though Anal's massage had done wonders. "Where did you learn to be such a great masseuse?"

" Kauli has shown me a lot of different types of healing techniques. Her people are known for their healing abilities and she's teaching me a few tricks of the trade so to speak."

"What about your people Anal? You're not human."

Anal laughed. It was a sweet sound, like a song from long ago. " No, I'm not human. My people are called the Rahar. See the moon in between my eyebrows? It means I'm a dream seeker."

" A dream seeker?" Obi-Wan grunted as Anal helped him turn around.

" Yes. Within the Rahar there are a few of us who are born with a special ability. We can have vivid dreams and the blue crescent moon is our symbol of birth."

"You mean you're a visionary?"

" No not exactly. The dreams we have are so real that they seem real. Sometimes, if you ask a dream seeker a question before they go to bed, they will receive the answer in a dream. The ancient ones believe that the gods speak through us but I think it's a gift, nothing more. The dreams aren't visions just very realistic dreams. Although…"

" 'Although' what?", Obi-Wan asked anxious to hear the rest.

" Well…Kauli says my ability is different."

" How so?"

" She says that since I am force sensitive the dreams I have are more like visions. Of course I didn't think this was true at first, but when I think about all the dreams that I have had in the past that have actually come true, I have to believe her."

" What dream have you had actually come true?"

" Well… I guess the one that means the most to me is the one when I dreamed I would be selected to be a Padawan. All I knew was that the master would be a female and would not be human. I had heard her voice in the dream but not remembering what she looked liked it was hard to put together a definite face. Of course…" Anal paused as she helped Obi-Wan back onto the bed, " Of course I didn't pay much attention to it, I thought it was just my hopeful imagination. Any way the next day Master Yoda said I was to fight for a Jedi Master that would be arriving later that day in search of a Padawan. I was honored to say the least but didn't give a second thought to the dream. It wasn't until I saw Kauli standing in the arena that I put two and two together. She was female and no where near human. Well as you might have guessed I fought for her and was asked to be her Padawan soon after. I have a lot more confidence in my dreams now but I'm learning that what I dream doesn't always happen. It's rather nerve racking come to think of it."

" I would imagine." Obi-Wan was finding all this quite hard to believe. He had had dreams before but nothing like what Anal was describing. It was said that certain Jedi possessed the power to have truthful dreams but even those dreamers had few that actually came true. Most of the time they were just warnings. I wonder… " Ah!" Obi-Wan reached down and grabbed his legs. Pain shot through them. It felt like his legs were being pierced with a thousand needles.

" What? What's wrong!?" Anal was startled by Obi-Wan's sudden scream. The boy was obviously in pain but she didn't know what was wrong. " Obi- Wan! What's wrong?"

Obi-Wan rubbed at his legs furiously, " It feels like a thousand needles are being driven into my legs!"

Anal sank into the chair by the bed. His legs were just waking up. She closed her eyes and tried to slow down her fast beating heart. " Don't scare me like that! I thought something was really wrong."

"Sorry." Obi-Wan sat back up, the pain was beginning to go away. " The pain caught me off guard. I've never had pins and needles like that before."

" You've been lying down without moving for a long time, your legs weren't used to walking and you blood rushed down to your feet."

Obi Wan lay back on the bed and covered his face with his hands. I hate being weak! Suddenly he heard a strange sound and looked at Anal. She was laughing!

" What's so funny?"

Anal shook her head unable to speak for the moment. Obi-Wan raised an eyebrow. What was she laughing at? He sat up and crossed his arms, he didn't like secrets, especially when they might concern him. Anal opened her eyes. Seeing Obi-Wan's discomfort she tried to calm down. She took a deep breath and explained what had caused her outburst. " You looked so funny."

Obi-Wan looked at her confused. " With your hands on your face you looked like scrunched up fish from where I'm sitting." Once again Anal burst into laughter.

Obi-Wan tried to picture what he had looked like. It wasn't long before he to was laughing. The two of them were laughing so hard neither one heard Qui-Gon come onto the room.

Qui-Gon observed the two padawans quietly. He didn't know what they were laughing at but it was nice to see Anal and Obi-Wan getting along so well. Qui-Gon hated to interrupt the merriment but Obi-Wan needed his rest. He cleared his throat loudly. Immediately the laughter stopped and both students looked at Qui-Gon. " I'm glad to see you two getting along so well." Qui-Gon walked into the room and offered Obi-Wan a warm smile, " How are you feeling Obi-Wan?"

" Well Master. I managed to walk half way across the room." Obi-Wan grinned, he was pleased with his progress and this was only his first day. Qui-Gon had to be pleased.

" Very good my Padawan but don't over exert yourself. Your strength will come back in time and time requires patience."

Obi-Wan's smile wavered slightly. That wasn't the comment he'd been looking for. "Yes Master."

Anal was frowning. Why had Qui-Gon reprimanded Obi-Wan? He's doing great considering the fact he hasn't moved in four days. Anal wasn't sure what to think. She refused to believe Qui-Gon was a cold as Obi-Wan had described. There has to be more to this than what she was seeing. But what?

" Anal?" She looked up, Qui-Gon had spoken to her.

" Yes?"

" Thank you for helping with Obi-Wan today. What time can we expect you tomorrow?

" I'll have to speak with my Master, but I would guess sometime before lunch."

" Very well. We shall see you then."

" Okay. Bye Obi-Wan I'll see you tomorrow."

" Bye Anal and thanks!" Obi-Wan waved to her as she walked out of the room. A yawn caught him by surprise and he covered it with one of his hands. He looked up at Qui-Gon and found him studying him.

"Tired my Padawan?"

" Yes Master a little."

Qui-Gon sat down in the chair Anal had been sitting a few moments before. He tucked his robes around him and folded his hands in his lap. "Well then, you should get some rest. Sleep is the best healer."

"Yes Master." Obi-Wan lied down and pulled the covers around him. he tried to fall asleep on his back but just couldn't do it. He turned on his side hoping to get into a more comfortable position. With his back to the window, he faced Qui-Gon. He looked into the cool blue depth if his Master's eyes. Nothing. Always nothing. Obi-Wan sighed with frustration, even when there was nothing to hide Qui-Gon locked him out.

"Go to sleep Obi-Wan."

" Yes Master." He closed his eyes and was asleep within moments, never seeing the smile that came to Qui-Gon's face.

The lights of the combat room gleamed as the two fighters came together. Their lightsabers clashed, separated, then clashed again. Both of them tried to obtain the advantage over the other, but to no avail. The boy jumped into the air as his attacker tried to make a sweep at his feet. He flipped over his opponent and landed some distance away. Taking advantage of the momentary pause in combat, he wiped the sweat off his forehead with his sleeve. However, that was all he was given time to do, for his opponent was on him again, striking for his head and then his mid-section. But the boy deflected the strokes easily as many years of training clicked in. All the while, the two fighters were oblivious to the pair of eyes watching them with keen interest.

Qui-Gon watched closely as Anal and Obi-Wan practiced their basic training. Obi-Wan's strength had returned faster than anyone had predicted and the boy had begun to grow restless. He had been working with Anal for over a week now and Qui-Gon had noticed a definite connection between the two. His gaze momentarily shifted to the girl . Her blue lightsaber clashed with Obi-Wan's, at times it was impossible to see where one ended and the other began. She was an excellent duelist, her Master was teaching her well. However there was something in the girl's eyes that bothered Qui- Gon. It was as though every time she looked at him she was studying him; searching for something that wasn't easy to see. As though reading his thoughts, Anal looked up. Qui-Gon felt a chill run up his spine. What is she looking for?

Qui-Gon let his gaze shift back to Obi-Wan. He was tiring, Qui-Gon could see it. His moves were becoming sluggish. " Ouch!" Anal nicked Obi-Wan in the leg as he tried to dodge a stroke aimed at his feet. Though the lightsabers were on low power for safety precautions, it still hurt when you got hit. Qui-Gon shook his head. Obi-Wan needed to learn patience when he was fighting, he was to anxious. " Be patient Obi-Wan. Let the force flow through you. Let it guide you."

Qui-Gon watched as Obi-Wan reached out to the force and gathered it all around him. Anal made another swipe at his feet but he jumped out of the way and brought his light saber down onto her shoulder. Anal had to swing up abruptly to block the blow and in doing so lost her balance. Obi-Wan swung his lightsaber down just above her heart in what would have been a killing blow. " Alright that's enough for today." Obi-Wan powered down his lightsaber and made a bow towards Qui-Gon. Qui-Gon in answer nodded slightly and made his way down to the floor.

Obi-Wan reached out a hand and helped Anal to her feet. She powered down her own lightsaber and placed it safely on her belt. " Nice job Obi-Wan you really had me today."

" You weren't so bad yourself," To emphasize his point Obi-Wan rubbed his leg where she had hit him.

Anal just laughed, " I didn't hit you that hard."

" Hard enough." Obi-Wan heard foot steps behind him and turned to look. Qui-Gon was on his way. Obi-Wan straightened out his shirt. Though he had just been in battle and had reason to look messy, he still hated looking improper in front of his Master.

Qui-Gon approached the students. He had been impressed today by both their show of skills. Obi-Wan could have been a little more graceful, but Qui- Gon knew that would come with practice and time. " You both did extremely well. Anal please send my gratitude to your Master for allowing you to work with Obi-Wan this past week."

" I will. I was more than happy to help. I only wish I could have done more."

" Both Obi-Wan and I are extremely grateful for what you did do. The two of us will be leaving on a mission in four days, that couldn't have happened without your help."

Anal blushed. She wasn't used to all this praise. She really hadn't done that much, she was just helping out a fellow Jedi in need. " Thank you Master Qui-Gon."

Qui-Gon nodded and looked at Obi-Wan who was still panting from the battle. " You did well Obi-Wan, I was impressed."

Obi-Wan's face lit up at Qui-Gon's praise. Anal tried to hide her smile but it was difficult. " Thank you Master."

" Go take a shower Obi-Wan and we'll have supper when your through."

" Yes Master. Is it alright if Anal joins us?"

Qui-Gon looked at the girl in question. Anal appeared surprised by the invitation but happily so. " I don't see why not. That is if it is alright with your Master Anal."

" I'm sure it will be, but I will need to check with her."

" Very well. We will meet you in the dinning quarters in about an hour."

" Okay."

Obi-Wan's smile broadened. Then upon noticing Qui-Gon's expression, quickly bowed and ran off to the showers.

Qui-Gon watch his Padawan run off. There were times when Obi-Wan seemed a lot younger than fifteen. Qui-Gon turned around and found Anal looking at him. No, studying him…Why? The girl seemed to do that when ever she was in his presence, especially if Obi-Wan happened to be nearby. " Is there something I can do for you Anal?"

Anal tilted her head to the side, as though some real thought was needed for Qui-Gon's question. " I'm not sure if you can help me. Unless…you would be willing to answer a very personal question."

Qui-Gon gave Anal a puzzled look, " Personal? How do you mean?"

The girl looked down at the floor for a moment, her forehead scrunched in thought. Well…," Anal looked back up and met Qui-Gon's gaze head on, " Do you care for Obi-Wan?"

Qui-Gon's eyes widened. He was amazed, no more like shocked, at such a bold question coming from someone so young. Anal couldn't be more than sixteen. Students rarely, if ever, asked such vigorous questions of their Masters. They were taught to respect their Masters and not question their motives. This did not mean they were not allowed to speak their opinion, just not at the disrespect of the Masters. Qui-Gon wasn't sure what to say. No one, except Master Yoda, had dared to ask him such a personal question. Qui-Gon didn't think he needed to explain his emotional state to a sixteen year old girl. But he didn't think she would leave the situation alone with an unsatisfactory answer, though it was his right to give such a response.

Choosing his words carefully, Qui-Gon answered Anala's question, " Obi-Wan is my Padawan…I care enough."

Anal smiled but her eyes continued their unnerving gaze, " That's good." She began to walk past Qui-Gon and he thought she was done with her little interrogation but he thought to soon. " Are you sure 'enough' is enough?"

Qui-Gon refused to answer; the girl was going to far. He met her gaze, making sure his irritation was evident in his eyes. But Anal wasn't even phased, indeed she had the nerve to smile even more. If the circumstances had been different, Qui-Gon might have praised her for her bravery, but as it was, he was merely annoyed.

" Tell me, does Obi-Wan know? No I guess not. You might want to show that you care on occasion. You'd be surprised at what it might accomplish."

Qui-Gon watched, half shocked half annoyed, as Anal bowed and walked out of the room. He should speak to her Master about her boldness but at the moment he was to distracted by what she had said last. Does Obi-Wan know? Why would Anal ask such a question? Had Obi-Wan spoken to her about something? Qui-Gon froze. Did Obi-Wan think he didn't care? Qui-Gon shook his head at the absurd thought. Of course he didn't.

Qui-Gon walked to the showers to wait for Obi-Wan. He had wanted to spend some quiet time with the boy before they left, but now Qui-Gon doubted that it would happen. His mind was troubled by what Anal had said and it would take awhile to sort things out.

" Well, so much for relaxation." Qui-Gon sighed, he doubted he would sleep well that night.

* * *

Fifteen minutes. Qui-Gon stood in front of Obi-Wan's sleeping quarters. The ship that would take them to Corath left in fifteen minutes. He knocked softly on the door. Obi-Wan had eaten breakfast with him but had left shortly after to pack what he would need for the journey ahead. The two of them had spent little quality time together in the two short weeks they had been at the Temple and Qui-Gon was sorry for it. The mission was going to be difficult and most likely would not allow any restful time for either of them.

Not hearing any answer Qui-Gon knocked louder. " Come in."

Qui-Gon opened the door and found Obi-Wan looking through his bag. " You did not answer the first time I knocked Obi-Wan , is everything alright?"

" Yes Master, I'm sorry. I was making sure I hadn't forgotten anything and didn't hear you knock."

" Are you ready? The ship leaves in a few moments."

" Yes Master." Obi-Wan lifted his bag and swung it over his shoulder. It wasn't heavy, for Jedi rarely carried much with them on their journeys, but with Corath's moist climate and dense forests some unusual equipment was needed.

" Lets go then." Qui-Gon was carrying a bag similar to Obi-Wan's and he pulled it more securely onto his shoulder.

The two Jedi walked through the Temples silent hallways, heading for the door. They were about to go through when they heard someone shouting at them from down the corridor.

" Obi-Wan wait! Wait!" Obi-Wan looked over his shoulder and saw Anal running after him. He smiled and put his bag on the ground. He had wanted to say good-bye but there hadn't been enough time for him to look for her. She stopped in front of him, panting after her long run.

" Oh, I'm so glad I caught you before you left. I have something for you."

" For me?"

" Yes." Anal reached into a pocket of her trousers and pulled out a long multicolored braid. She placed in one of Obi-Wan's hands and curled his fingers around it. " It means eternal friendship," she explained, some what out of breath.

Obi-Wan uncurled his fingers and looked at the braid. It felt soft in his hand. There were so many colors. Obi-Wan wondered how she had managed to find so many different colored ribbons. The red ribbon caught his eye for a second. He looked at it more closely. If he didn't know any better he would have sworn that the red ribbon looked exactly like… " Is the red ribbon what I think it is?"

" That depends on what you're thinking it is," Anal said with a smile, "If you're thinking it's a piece of my hair than you're absolutely right."

Obi-Wan gave Anal a puzzled look. He couldn't help but look at her hair and then back at the colored braid. Anal must have found this funny, for she began to laugh. " You see Obi-Wan, the Rahar take great pride in their hair because of its bright red color. To give someone a strand of your hair, who is not a Rahar, is considered a great honor. And to weave it into a colored braid, like I did for you, is a symbol of great eternal friendship."

Obi-Wan gazed at the braid in amazement. He didn't know what to say. He was glad Anal thought of him as a close friend, for he had grown to think of her in the same way, but never had he expected anything as wonderful as the gift she had just given him. " Thank you Anal, I'm honored."

" You're welcome Obi-Wan. I hope that we see each other again some day."

" Me too."

" Well I have to go Kauli is waiting for me. Good luck on your mission. May the force be with you both."

" And may the force be with you as well Anal."

Anal smiled warmly. She said good-bye one last time and then walked down the hallway and out of sight. Obi-Wan knew he would miss her, but he was sure they would see each other again.

" Come Obi-Wan, the ship won't wait forever."" Yes Master." Obi-Wan placed the braid in a pocket inside his tunic where it would be safe. Picking his bag up off the floor, he followed Qui-Gon out of the Temple and towards a new mission.



To be continued….