The roiling thunderclouds flowed like cascading smoke over the mountained landscape. Hurrying swiftly towards the now-retreating Jedi, the murk, with its random flashes of light and clamor of sharp sound, seemed almost alive. The storm was fast approaching.

                Within the speeder, the invisible tendrils of unsettled Force energy matched the storm without, seemed to flash and sputter around its occupants. But there was no corresponding shout of noise; instead, the vehicle was saturated with unsettled silences.

                Atel, her vigilant eyes narrowed in suspicion and deep worry, studied her Master and the rogue carefully.  When they left the farm, Qui-Gon Jinn had ignored the Padawan's sharp scrutiny. Instead, he twisted around to drink in the tableau of his grieving wife and child, gazing intently at the scene until his beloved family became lost in the distance and faded from sight. Then, he seemed to shrink inward suddenly, closing his eyes, settling back into his seat. She caught a fleeting glimpse of anguish before the visage turned to stone. But the set of his hunched shoulders and bowed head spoke volumes of his misery.

                She could almost see his grief in the muted tangles of the Force. And, in that moment, she felt sorry for him - not for his well-deserved arrest and eventual conviction but for the love he obviously bore his wife and child. It was very likely that he would never see them again or perhaps only after Ben had grown to manhood. It was such a waste. And it could have been avoided so easily if only he had followed the rules of law. She sighed, heavily. She hoped her Master would realize that as well. Rules were made to be followed, not twisted to suit the moment or one's own desires.

                Glancing towards the pilot's seat, trying to make sure that Master Obi-Wan was coping well with the tremendous stresses of this mission, she became concerned as she saw him gently brush Qui-Gon's sleeve for a moment. It appeared that he was almost too aware of the Bendu's misery. She watched as Jinn said nothing but nodded his head imperceptibly, seemingly grateful for his old Padawan's understanding.

                But Atel studied them with now-troubled eyes. Obi-Wan was showing compassion and something more - empathy and an unsettling solidarity with Jinn. She had hoped that the arrest would have corrected this problem with her Master. Realizing that he had to bring back the rogue Jedi to Coruscant should have cemented his resolve but it appeared that things were more unbalanced than ever. 

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                And things did not get better once they reached the transport. The speeder seemed to gather an exhaust trail of several individuals who followed them into the port and, once the engine had died, scattered about the area in a wide circle. Atel watched the crowd grow quickly. They did not appear hostile but anxious whispers morphed into fierce questions when it became clear that Jinn was a prisoner. A few had started to move towards the vehicle, intent on getting some answers, when Tov Antilles appeared.  

                Hurrying to catch the trio before they could escape, slightly out of breath, the Governor walked quickly toward the speeder.  Even from a distance, his whole demeanor was that of a very angry man;  his face was sharply marked with a deep frown. Antilles began to speak even before reaching Obi-Wan's side.

                "Jedi Kenobi, may I be of assistance?" His voice was cold and harried, his eyes moving quickly as he took in the sight of the Jinn's glowing manacles, the Knight's stoic facade and the Bendu lightpike that Atel clutched so fervently.

                Obi-Wan glanced at his Padawan, indicating that they should get moving, then stood abruptly. He turned to the impatient Antilles and bowed slightly. The day's events roughened his weary voice in a harsh rasp, "Governor, thank you for your concern. But we are on our way to Coruscant and the transport will be leaving momentarily. Please step aside."

                Brushing past the man, Obi-Wan assisted Qui-Gon out of the speeder. Gathering their small packs and the treasure-trove of evidence, Atel moved quickly to flank the rogue, acting as point, hoping to stem any potential trouble. Taking the Bendu's arm, Obi-Wan began to guide the little group up towards the ramp.

                But the Governor refused to be dismissed. Ignoring the Knight's reply, he moved quickly to stand at the foot of the entry. "You realize, Jedi Kenobi, that if you are here to arrest anyone, you must go through my office." He glanced at the Bendu. "And I'm sure that a Hero of Naboo would need legal council if that were the case." His frown deepened, staring at the blue-hazed shackles entrapping Jinn's wrists. "Do you need legal council, Qui-Gon?"

                Shaking his head slightly, it was clear that the Bendu was resigned, saddened by this. He had hoped to be on the transport, to get past this last hurtle, to finally accept the burden. He did not need to be reminded of the consequences of his choice. "Tov, no. I appreciate what you are trying to do but you must let me go."

                The Governor's voice grew soft, confidential. "Are you sure, my friend? This doesn't look right to me." His eyes flicked to the Jedi, then off towards the knots of people hovering nearby, before returning to Qui-Gon's solemn face.

                "Knight Kenobi is only doing what is required. I am certain, Tov. Be at peace with this."

                Antilles glanced again at the Jedi, staring hard at Obi-Wan for a moment, then nodded slowly towards his old friend. "Very well, Qui-Gon. I will do as you ask." He stepped back, turning towards the Knight, the scowl returning in full force. "Jedi Kenobi, Qui-Gon says that he accepts this and I will honor his request." He paused, gathering strength. "I have my...doubts. Arresting one of Naboo's citizens without a warrant is highly suspect, Jedi business or not. Be advised that I will be contacting your Order to seek further information in this matter."

                With that, the Governor stepped onto the duracrete landing pad, allowing the trio to pass unobstructed up the ramp. As the Bendu moved to the ship's portal, Tov called after him. "Good luck, Qui-Gon." The Bendu did not reply but stopped, his sorrow-filled eyes flicking to Antilles for a brief moment, and nodded before disappearing into the bowels of the transport. Obi-Wan bowed once more and quickly followed.

                Atel paused, looking about the now hectic launch pad. The crowd's distant murmurs had grown louder as several individuals began to argue with the Governor over his apparent inability to stop the arrest.  Ignoring the noise, she scanned the area one final time before following her Master inside. Unnoticed, in the deep shadows of the landing bay, a lone figure watched the proceedings with a sly smile. The informant, NoName, was quite pleased with his handiwork. Revenge was sweet indeed.

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                By the time the Padawan had reached the small quarters, Obi-Wan had already removed Jinn's binders. They were talking in soft whispers at the far end of the cabin but, as she entered the tiny space, the sounds abruptly ceased. She blinked at the unsettling sight. Her violet eyes flicked uneasily between the two, noticing again how closely they were standing together, almost like old friends or perhaps conspirators in a plot.

                Her anxiety began to spike upward as she considered the present scene and the events of the past few days. Staring at her Master, she could feel the silence between the men, the quelled conversation a tangible thing waiting for the right moment to resume - without her presence. She did not like this at all but, for the moment, there was nothing to be done. Jinn could not escape the transport in hyperspace and they had two days to come to terms with all that had happened, all that would happen once they reached Coruscant. It would be over soon enough.

                She tamped down the rough worry with a defeated sigh. She almost lost Master Obi-Wan on Naboo in that terrifying fight with Skywalker; he could have died back there. He could have... died. And it would have been her fault, her idiotic mistake. Thinking Anakin wasn't a serious threat - what a fool she was!

                Now, she could still lose him... to this Bendu. Well, it would not happen. She still had time to reconnect with her Master, time to reconcile their differences, and time to reestablish their Master/Padawan relationship. She would make time, make sure it was enough. This was too important for her to fail. She wanted her Master back.

                Nodding to Obi-Wan, she dropped the packs onto the nearest bed. It would be a tight fit with the three of them. Two narrow sleepers and an overhead bunk crowded the space; a 'fresher unit occupied one small corner. While there was a small transparasteel porthole and a beautifully-designed decor in blues and creme, the cabin seemed almost claustrophobic - no place for meditation and certainly no place for private conversation. Looking about, she found a small cubbyhole just perfect for the evidence pouch and shoved it inside, closing the door with an audible snap.

                "Master, I'm sorry that I could not get a larger cabin or two. This was all they had on such short notice."

                "It will be fine, Padawan. Besides, we have a window. Luxury indeed..."

                "Yes, Master." A brief smile touched her concerned face. She had always loved his dry wit and this meager attempt at humor was a good first start at reconciling the rift in their relationship. She just hoped that it would be enough.

                Looking more closely at him, she could see that he was still dusty from the fight, grass and burrs in his hair, and sporting several rents in his tunic and leggings. A few blossoms of blackened blood were clustered on his arms and legs and the ragged score on his cheek was clear evidence of how intense the battle with Anakin had been. No wonder the Governor had been so tenacious about Jinn. How it must have appeared to the bureaucrat - no calm cool Jedi demeanor but blood and dirt and intensity. Master Obi-Wan looked as if he had just fought the demon draigons of old legend.

                Digging down into her pack, she quickly pulled out several small bacta patches. Acknowledging the silent Bendu standing by the porthole, she moved past him to Master Obi-Wan's side. One small hand gently touched his torn skin with its trickle of dried blood and dark sweat as she shook her head, chiding him quietly. "Master, you need a healer again."

                "Never that, Padawan." But he seemed suddenly tired, all the adrenalin of the past hours leaching away.

                "Go clean up, Master. I'll keep... Master Jinn company."

                He frowned at her words, suspicious of her sudden eagerness to help. "Are you sure?" His grey eyes were somber with questions and hesitation.

                She tried to reassure him with a fleeting grin, hoping to stem the morass of failure and wary uncertainty. "Yes, Master. I promise I won't carry him off while you're gone. Besides, the ship is about to leave. Feel the vibrations?"

                Obi-Wan nodded unhappily, turning back toward Qui-Gon as if to comfort him. But the Bendu was at the porthole, staring out through the transparasteel, darkened eyes wide and unblinking. The Force seemed to thrum with his anguish.

                Through the window, a sudden flash of light crashed and lit Qui-Gon's face in a grim mask. The storm had finally arrived. The intense thunderclap that followed could not be heard through the thick durasteel shell but there was an instant of resonance before the sheets of rain painted the porthole in grey mist. The Bendu closed his eyes for a moment, then straightened, folding his arms tightly across his chest, his leonine face a stoic facade. Quickly raising his shields, he remained by the portal, gazing out into the sullen light of cloud and rain. But the calm pose fooled no one.

                The vibrations increased as the ship leapt its way out of Naboo's atmosphere and then settled down as the secondary dampers kicked in. Above the heavy clouds and the rain, the sun stabbed its brilliant light into the window for a brief instant before the transport turned toward Coruscant. A few moments of star-dusted night and the planet disappeared as they entered the streaked luminescence of hyperspace. There was no turning back now.

 Atel sighed with quiet relief. "Two days of rest and then home." Obi-Wan frowned at that, concern for what lay ahead clearly marked in his clouded eyes.

                The Padawan quickly realized her mistake. "Master, you really need to take better care of yourself." Thrusting the bacta patches into his hands, she gestured towards the 'fresher. "It will be all right."

                Obi-Wan gazed at her for a moment, his eyes flicking toward his old Master and back again to his Padawan, then nodded. "I won't be long."

                As the door closed behind Obi-Wan, Atel glanced again at the tall Bendu. Qui-Gon had said nothing since her arrival. Standing there, intently staring out into hyperspace, it seemed almost as if the random streaks and shimmer of hyperlight were infinitely precious to him - certainly more important than the grim reality of this tiny cell; perhaps the beauty of the moment gave him some fleeting comfort with the devastating loss of his family and his freedom.

                After the harsh events of this day, she could well understand his need for quiet contemplation. But, if she were to have any chance at regaining her Master's affection and regard, she had to try to understand this rogue and the hold he had on Obi-Wan. Atel knew that, with no privacy in the small space, this was probably the only chance she would have before returning to Coruscant and the Temple.

                "Master Jinn," she began. She watched as his back stiffened abruptly. He did not turn to meet her intense gaze, but she could feel that he was listening. "I wish to thank you for helping Master Obi-Wan with Anakin." She paused, trying to gain some sense of what he was thinking, his motivations in helping his Jedi captors. "You were right."

                At that, he twisted to stare into her questioning eyes but still he said nothing, cautiously waiting in resolute silence.

                "You were right to interfere." She hesitated, unsure if this was the right time, but she was determined to finish what she had begun. "Anakin is well-trained and his use of the Force today was astonishing. It could have been much worse without your intervention." When he nodded slightly, acknowledging her words, and turned back toward the portal, she pressed the point. "But I want to know why you did it."

                At that, realizing that she would continue to question him until she had the answers she needed, Qui-Gon gave a heavy sigh and moved to face the young apprentice. His low voice was calm, polite, remote. "Did what, Padawan Sl'etah? Interfere?"

                "Yes. You could have let Anakin continue the fight, maybe even kill my Master. But you did not. Instead you helped Master Obi-Wan. I want to know why."

                He gazed at the Padawan, seeming to measure her sincerity as if trying to determine if she were enemy or ally. Finally, his voice still remote, colorless, he replied. "Perhaps I knew that Obi-Wan would win anyway. Perhaps I knew it was a losing cause and could only make matters worse."

                Atel moved impatiently, "Master Jinn, I was there. Perhaps... you might try again. Why?"

                He looked past her, his face shuttered and serene. "Does it really matter? I am here and under arrest. Imprisonment is likely once we reach the Temple. Why seems to be irrelevant now."

                "Not to me."

                Qui-Gon sent a penetrating glance in her direction, noting her strained face; staring for a moment, he shrugged again. Perhaps truth might not implicate the others; he would have to be careful. "I knew that you were here to take me back to Coruscant. Anakin disagreed with my assessment of the situation and disobeyed me, attacking Obi-Wan without provocation. What could I do but stop him?"

                "You could have let Anakin continue and yet you tried again and again to prevent his attack." Her voice was insistent, probing.

                "I knew that I was going to be arrested and there was little I could do about it." His voice deepened in sadness. "I didn't want Anakin implicated. He is young and impudent but he will make a fine Bendu Champion someday. I did not want his future jeopardized for my life choices."

                "And yet you had Master Obi-Wan judge his actions." She frowned at this. "I don't understand why you didn't just let him get away. Once he was brought down, you helped us cuff him. You gave him over to the Jedi for judgment. Why?"

                "Attacking without provocation is unacceptable, indeed unconscionable, especially for one who should be walking in the Light." His eyes clouded in unhappy remembrance; the betrayed look on his apprentice's young face had been devastating. "There are always consequences to the choices we make. He needed to learn that lesson." He shifted towards the portal for a moment, drinking in the colors of infinity. "But, in one thing, you are wrong, Padawan Sl'etah." 

                Qui-Gon paused then turned back, watching the Padawan's troubled face, waiting to gain her full attention. "I did not give him over to the Jedi for judgment; I gave him to Obi-Wan." He waited for her to understand the difference. It did not take long but the hard lines of her mouth told a tale of bitter comprehension.

                Atel looked away, her brow a sharp furrow in frustration. She did not like the path this conversation was taking. "Yes, well... Master Obi-Wan has been very lenient of late." Her eyes sharpened as she gazed again at the rogue, then grew shadowed in thought. "The Council would not be so understanding."

                His mouth curled slightly, seemingly amused but the Force swirled muddily around him, steeped in sorrow. "Just so."

                The dichotomy of the man just frustrated her more. He seemed at peace with the arrest. Yet, was he saying that her Master was Qui-Gon Jinn's ally, that he was not going to follow the will of the Council in this matter? It made a frightening type of sense but she did not like it...at all. She snapped back.

                "Yes, Master Obi-Wan is a very compassionate Jedi. You were lucky that he was the one sent by the Council to investigate your crimes. Another Knight might not have been so sympathetic."

                "Yes, I'm sure that the Council was quite deliberate in their choice." His face was a calm mask but the fierce eyes glittered in profound resentment. The memory of Obi-Wan's unhappy confession was still clear and cutting.

                "What does that mean?" Her reply was sharp, unhappy.

                "Perhaps they were following the will of the Force in this matter." Qui-Gon turned away from the angered apprentice, looking out again into the ethereal beauty of hyperspace, hoping to find some semblance of peace in the ever-changing light. But Atel would not be denied.

                "Of course they were. Why else would they send us here?" Her amethyst eyes hardened, brittle with defensive indignation.

                "Why else indeed?" The rumbling sigh echoed in the tiny cabin.

                Atel huffed in frustration. She was no closer to understanding this former Jedi than before. She moved to face him, her back against the chill wall, the portal's flickering glow bathing her face in a shadowy half-light, her body taut as she gazed up at the tall Bendu. "What do you mean by that....Master Jinn?

                "Perhaps they were being kind in allowing my former apprentice to see his old Master once more." The ironic tone in his voice was space-cold, icy in his condemnation of the Jedi Council and their motivations.

                "I do not like what you are implying." Her mouth was a thin line of impassioned denial. "My Master is well-known for his unflagging devotion to duty as well as his compassion for others. We were the perfect team to investigate your 'life choices'. I believe that Master Obi-Wan has been more than tolerant of the whole situation."

                "Indeed he has. I only hope that Obi-Wan will not be punished for his compassion towards a former Jedi."

                "Of course not. He has done his duty and we are on our way to Coruscant. Why should he be punished?" Her offended tone belied the tempest of frightened uncertainty that his statement had raised. *Is he right? Master defied the Council for this rogue. Will my Master be condemned for his compassion?*

                Qui-Gon stared out into the infinite luminous night for a moment. Wearied, his arms folded in embattled stance, he gazed at her once more. "Perhaps you may be able to answer that better than I, Padawan Sl'etah."

                She studied his leonine features, trying to gage his sincerity, seeing nothing but calm and stoic acceptance. But, for a fleeting moment, as the Bendu looked down into her indignant face, she thought she saw his azure eyes darkening in intense pity. She pressed on, growling - the stresses building as he remained unfailingly polite but answering none of her concerns - almost if he were taunting her.

                "I'm sure your assessment of the situation is flawed, sir. But I will not debate you on this issue. I have agreed to help my Master with your defense once we reach the Temple."

                When he remained silent, seemingly lost in thought, Atel took a deep breath and tried to release her indignant frustration. This stoic Bendu with his quiet dignity only seemed to infuriate her more. But she needed to understand him and there are a number of questions that remain unanswered.

                "Master Jinn..." she began but he abruptly interrupted her.

                "Is that wise?" His voice was a low rumble but deep concern laced the edge of his question.

                "What do you mean?" Her eyes were shadowed in questions.

                "It might be more prudent to distance yourself from my interrogation. The Council might see your assistance in my defense as collaboration. That could be disastrous for Obi-Wan and for you as well, Padawan."

                Frustrated and skeptical, Atel pushed off from the cold wall, her clenched hands deeply hidden within the beige folds of her Jedi tunic. "Sir, I don't like your attitude or your implications. The Council is made up of the wisest beings in the Jedi Order. Surely, you are not insinuating that they have already decided on your fate without a proper trial."

                "Have you?"

                The apprentice was taken aback; this rogue saw far too much. Blinking furiously, she replied. "I...my opinion has no bearing on this. I promised to help my Master and I will do so, with or without your cooperation."

                The silence that followed was short. For the briefest of moments, the Bendu frowned at her fierce declaration before his visage smoothed into a stony facade, his hooded eyes turning towards the mysteries of hyperspace once more. His hushed question was steeped in long-buried sorrow.

                "Do you care about your Master?"

                Atel huffed in annoyance, glaring at him. "What do you mean? Of course I do." The defensive words rushed, spilled out as she bristled at the question; why would he ask such a thing? "He is my Master, my closest friend. Yes, I care about him...very much."

                "So do I, Padawan Sl'etah, and I have for many years." His voice lowered, growing hoarse with weariness. "If you truly want to help your Master, if you have any influence over him at all, convince him to distance himself from my case. I have no wish to see Obi-Wan condemned for my decisions."

                She stood there, stunned for a moment. This was not what she had expected. "Master Jinn, I... for once, we agree."

                "Agree on what, Padawan?" Obi-Wan leaned against the 'fresher door, his green eyes flicking first to Atel, resting for a moment on the too-silent Qui-Gon Jinn and then returned with a sharp, penetrating stare to his apprehensive apprentice.

                "Master Jinn and I were merely discussing his case before the Council." She moved quickly to his side, gently touching the small bacta patch on his cheek. An uncertain smile teased across her face as she looked at the clean undertunic, the bare feet, the drying hair. "Master, they have a water shower?"

                Their eyes locked, each recognizing that the change in subject was merely a diversionary tactic. Atel was quite relieved when Master Obi-Wan nodded slightly.

                "Luxury in truth, my Learner. A choice of sonics or water shower as well as a sonics cleaner. We will have fresh clothing for a change. Even Master Jinn will be able to clean up before arriving at the Temple."

                Obi-Wan handed her the remnants of his torn clothes, clean but still with the ragged tears from the intense battle with Anakin. "I believe we will have time to repair these as well. My cloak got the worst of it; I may need to get a new one from stores when we return. We shall see whether the Jedi Order can spare us a few supplies."

                "I have the repair kit. Shall I start on this or would you prefer to eat first? They have a dining hall aboard, a good one I hear, but we can also have it delivered if you want to maintain privacy."

                The Jedi Knight sighed in weary resignation. " Food and privacy. We have much to discuss."

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                Atel had been right about one thing; the menu was extensive and there was a delivery service. A welcomed excuse to ignore the thought of painful discussions that must undoubtedly follow, the trio poured over the selections. It was almost amusing to watch as Obi-Wan's eyes widened at the expansive dessert list. Atel knew his weakness for sweets although he rarely indulged. But when Jinn quietly teased the Knight about a sinful confection of muja fruit and choca creme, Obi-Wan could no longer resist.

                "I haven't had muja in some time. When that last blight swept through the Mid-Rim and the Trade Embargo hit, the price soared and I was unable to get more."

                "Surely an infrequent indulgence was allowed on your missions." Qui-Gon frowned slightly. They had often laughed about Obi-Wan's addiction to muja. Growing up, he had eaten it whenever he could. 

                "No, basic requirements only. Spending is tightly controlled and every credit must be reported." Obi-Wan shrugged, seemingly unconcerned. He motioned towards the pile of torn garments draping one bed.  "When we return to the Temple, I'm sure that I will be chastised for not taking better care of my clothes." He shook his head and grimaced wryly. "My cloak is ruined and likely they will give me another even more threadbare than the one I destroyed."

                "I'm sorry, Obi-Wan." The Bendu's response was heartfelt.

                "No matter. It is of little consequence." His mouth quirked in irony, glancing at Atel before returning his gaze to Qui-Gon. "Besides, it helps to improvise. My Padawan is adept at reweaving cloth and repairing tunics. She would make a fine tailor in another life. And I've become quite a mechanic." Nodding in a slight bow, his green eyes were gleaming with momentary mischief. "Hyperdrives my specialty. I've been able to save our hides several times using little more than spit and imagination."

                "But never farming." Qui-Gon's voice held the barest trace of amusement, his azure eyes gleaming with whimsy.

                "No, not that." Obi-Wan shuddered slightly. Turning to his perplexed apprentice, he explained. "Master Jinn is teasing, my Padawan. It is an old joke from my younger days at the Temple. Master Qui-Gon and I were well-balanced." He sent a fleeting smile to the former Jedi. "I would attempt to kill his plants with kindness and he would heal them with much forbearance. I didn't realize at the time that watering them every day was not a good idea."

                The tall Bendu watched his old Padawan tell the simple tale, remembering those days with bittersweet longing. "I must have learned a thing or two from you, Obi-Wan. That first year on Naboo, I killed more biologicals than I saved." He shook his head at the unsettling memory. "I had no idea what I was doing. If it hadn't been for Le'orath..." He sighed, heavily. "She saved me in more ways than one."

                Abruptly pensive, Qui-Gon's visage smoothed out, amusement leaching away until nothing remained but stoic and painful acceptance. He closed his anguished eyes for a brief moment, then glanced toward the porthole. Pulsing with the ever-changing light of hyperspace, it reminded him suddenly of infinite loss and foolish decisions. He needed to get away, to think and grieve without his every move scrutinized. He gestured towards the 'fresher. "If  you will excuse me, I will go clean up."

                When the Bendu has disappeared behind closed doors, Obi-Wan turned quickly to his apprentice, a small frown etching his face, his arms folded in quiet determination. His voice, too, was firm, brooking no evasion. "Now, Padawan, what were you and Master Jinn talking about when I interrupted you?"

                She looked quickly at the 'fresher door and then lowered her eyes, hiding them from his penetrating stare. "Nothing of consequence, Master."

                His frown deepened, his voice hard. "That statement is unacceptable, Atel. And I should not have to ask a second time."

                She looked up, hesitant, apologetic. "Sorry, Master. We...we were talking about Anakin and Master Jinn's motives for helping us."

                Obi-Wan was puzzled at her reluctance. Surely the discussion she had had with his old Master was straightforward, not this mist of almost-truth that seemed to linger in her words. "And did he clear them up for you?"

                "Yes, Master."

                When she said nothing else, he became more perplexed. Once alone, he had expected her to launch into a lengthy and heated debate of his actions down on Naboo, especially after their bitter discord of the last few days. This silence was unsettling. Still, he knew that he would have to face her questions at some point before reaching Coruscant. It was time to meet her unspoken concerns head on.

                "Is there anything else you would like to ask that I might be able to answer?" When the silence continued, he persisted, "About Anakin."

                At that, she gave a soft, dejected sigh, her small hand worrying the ragged hem of her beige tunic. One fraying thread came loose and she began to twine it between her fingers in nervous apprehension. "Master, I've already overstepped my bounds on this mission and I'm sorry. It has been hard on both of us, harder than most." Her lilac eyes flicked towards the 'fresher and then back to Obi-Wan. "I don't want to argue with you any more. I shouldn't be arguing at all. It is not my place."

                "But you do have questions," he insisted.

                "Yes...it's just...." She hesitated again, growing disquiet in her voice. "I don't understand why you let Anakin go."

                "You thought the punishment was inadequate." He could sense her sharp unease; she truly believed that he had made a grievous mistake.

                "Master... Anakin attacked you, a Republic representative. Ordinarily, that type of crime would have netted him three to five years in a penal colony. And yet you sentenced him to a mere six months among friends." For a moment, her mouth flattened with righteous indignation but she shook herself free of the emotion. A quarrel now would only drive her Master further away. She gentled her tone. "Yes, I feel that the sentence was inadequate. I believe that the Council would agree with me and the Standards of Behavior are very clear on this issue."

                Obi-Wan moved closer, nodding, acknowledging her concerns. "You are right. He did attack me. But you forget that motivation is always a key factor in sentencing."

                She frowned at that, looking down at the ragged strands still weaving through her anxious hands. But she wisely  said nothing as he continued. "Anakin wanted to protect his Master in the only way he thought he could. I understand this. In my time, I've ignored or defied a few rules to protect my own, especially my Master."

                He leaned forward a bit, a wry smile briefly flitting across his wearied face. "Even defied a few for my Padawan Learner, if you must know."

                Her worrying fingers stopped their threaded dance for a startled moment as she glanced upward into her Master's somber eyes.

                He straightened, nodding at her unasked question. "I understand Anakin's reaction very well. Had I been in his place, I would have done the same thing."

                Atel's eyes widened in abrupt shock. "Master, you can't be serious! We were doing our duty, following the laws of the Republic."

                Obi-Wan's voice was quiet but firm. "Not from Anakin's point of view. He only saw the hated Jedi arresting his beloved Master - taking him to a place where he would be tortured, perhaps killed." Shaking his head, he continued, "I would have done anything to rescue my Master from that fate. Breaking a rule or two to save him would have been a small price to pay."

                She shook her head, mouth tightening once more, her hands busy with fraying fiber and emotion. She did not like this at all. Was her Master saying that he would put his loyalty to the rogue above that of the law and the Jedi Order? She did not want to argue, did not want to drive Obi-Wan further away. But she could not let this go. Her protest was urgent, reminding him of his oath and responsibility. "But, Master, you did not try to help Jinn escape as Skywalker did. Instead you arrested him. You carried out your duty as a Knight should."

                Abruptly misting into greys and sorrow, his eyes bore into her own. He nodded in helpless acquiescence. But, for a brief moment, the Force seemed to swirl about him as if tormented by the grief-filled demons of remorse and misery. "So I did."

                She truly did not want to argue with him; there had been enough acrimony between them on this mission to last her a thousand despairing years. But, looking into Obi-Wan's pained face, Atel's expression turned fiercely protective. That young Bendu fool had almost destroyed the only person in the galaxy that mattered to her, her adored Master. *Anakin should be made to pay for the harm he has done.*

                Forcing the vengeful thought aside, she insisted, "And Skywalker should have let Master Jinn go as well. Instead, he attacked you...with deadly force." She leaned towards him, her body trying to explain what her words could not, that he meant too much to her to lose him now. Her voice was colored in tones of indignation. "Master Obi-Wan, he hurt you!"

                "Padawan..."

                Atel rushed past the fears that plagued her with savage strength. She needed to say this. "You cannot excuse his behavior. He hurt you and you let him get away with it. It was more than breaking a few rules. Skywalker needed to learn a lesson. What have you taught him but that he can get away with assault?"

                "Padawan, you worry too much." He sighed, heavily. "Besides, he is learning a lesson. Anakin seemed to wield his power effortlessly, as easily as breathing. The restrictions on Force usage will be much harder on him than you think." He hurried on, before she could draw the breath to interrupt. "But it is the six month isolation that will teach the lesson you so adamantly insist upon. He will be shunned, Padawan - isolated from everyone - his friends, his mother, little Ben. It will be a harsh existence, especially for one so young."

                Frowning, she seemed unimpressed but remained warily silent as he continued. "I agree that, in the first few weeks, he will not appreciate the sentence. He might even be thankful for the peace it brings. But the time and the loneliness will wear on him quickly."

                Leaning in slightly, Obi-Wan stared into her violet eyes. His words were strong, empathic. "I know that this is truly a stern task that I have set for him, Atel. And don't forget that he has already lost Master Qui-Gon, a loss that may prove to be the most damning. Anakin is now an apprentice without a Master and, in his own eyes, he believes himself a failure. I don't think failure sits well with that one." 

                She abruptly tossed aside the thread, the ragged fiber spiraling down. Straightening, she gazed at Obi-Wan, her voice distraught with the frightening memory of storms and lightsabers, of that terrifying fight. "Master, he almost killed you."

                He gently reminded her, "But I am still here."  His subtle jest should have quelled her dismay but instead she just shook her head, her purpled eyes backflashing in fierce denial.

                "Padawan, if you do not approve of my decision, who do you suggest should determine his fate?" He demanded,  searching her troubled face. "You?"

                "No, not me." She grimaced, frowning at the thought. "We could have turned him over to the Naboo Security Forces for incarceration or taken him with us under arrest to Coruscant."

                Obi-Wan stared at her with incredulity. "The Naboo Security Forces..." He paused for a moment. "Padawan, the NSF would not punish one of their greatest war heroes for defending a Naboo citizen against hostile intruders - certainly not sentence Anakin to prison or isolation at the Bendu Sanctuary. Even Governor Antilles questioned our right to arrest one of their own. More likely, they would send a formal protest to the Republic Senate and the Council, questioning our behavior and denouncing our precipitous attack on Master Jinn. And then take Anakin out for a celebration drink to thank him for driving off the Jedi."

                "Reward him? For attacking you?" She was stunned. "Do they hate the Jedi that much?"

                Sighing, he shook his head. "No, Padawan, not hate... but we are interlopers on this planet." Looking towards the 'fresher for a moment, he seemed to turn inward, thinking aloud. "We should have sent Jedi to help them in their time of need. But, with the turmoil in the Temple and the dismissals, no one was available.  In the end, they freed their world with Anakin's help, not ours. Is it any wonder that they would take his side in this?"

                Atel huffed, exasperation clear in her voice. "No, Master. But, if you are sure that the Security Forces would ignore the laws of the Republic, how can you be so certain that Master Windu won't do the same thing? After all, the Bendu has no reason to accept your judgment."

                He paused for a moment. "Master Windu may no longer be a member of the Jedi Order but he is an honorable man. He will see that the sentence is carried out. Even Skywalker's friends would not defy a Bendu Champion."  Obi-Wan shrugged, his mouth quirking in wry irony. "Mace might even agree with you, Atel. He was always rather strict."

                She folded her arms, her stance tight and frustrated; she was increasingly concerned that the apprentice could still escape her Master's sentence. "Are you sure that Skywalker will tell Master Windu the truth? He might weave some tale and make it believable."

                "Padawan, Mace Windu was well-known at the Temple for discovering deception. I'm sure it is no different now." His tone carried conviction. "Anakin is many things - blunt, abrasive, strong in the Force - but he will keep his promise. Of that, I am very sure."

                The Padawan's face was thoughtful and deeply concerned. She did not want to argue with her Master but the Standards of Behavior were explicit. For Skywalker's crime, there had been only two choices -  local prison or a return to Coruscant in Jedi custody.

                "And arresting him and taking him back with us?"

                Obi-Wan turned pensive, looking towards the luminescent porthole. "It was not possible. He needs to remain on Naboo."

                "Why?"  Startled, she sharpened the question more than she had intended.

                "I don't know..." His words were gently spoken, drifting with preoccupation. The image of Anakin deeply grounded in the muted currents of the Force came back to him with startling clarity.

                Atel looked at him, doubt clouding her face. "You... don't know?" Her voice grew distraught. "Master, I'm sure the Council will want more than that."

                Obi-Wan shrugged, his grey eyes darting towards his Learner, watching as she failed once again to understand his reasoning. "I felt that he must stay behind. The Force was guiding me in this, Padawan. There is no more."

                "The Council will not..." Atel was quickly interrupted.

                "The Jedi Council was not there." He stared at her, hard. "If you think that my judgment is flawed, then so be it. But it is done and cannot be undone. I will face the consequences soon enough."

                He began to turn away, weary of the argument, of her inability to accept his decision. But she caught his arm, dragging his attention back, her anxiety for him clear in the Force's tangled eddies. Her voice was hoarse with apprehension. "Master, that is what I fear most. You are already in trouble with the Council. The defiance you have shown will not go unnoticed."

                A frown twisting his face for a brief moment, Obi-Wan looked down, watching as her fingers grasped his well-worn tunic. Swiftly, she released him, her small hand dropping heavily to her side as she stepped back. He murmured quietly. "No, Atel, you are quite correct. My defiance, as you call it, will not go unnoticed." Sighing, he glanced toward the pulsating infinity of hyperspace. Standing there, silent and somber, he seemed as filled with quiet resignation as Qui-Gon Jinn had been earlier.

                As the silence stretched thin and painfully long, Atel became more and more concerned. Watching his solemn face, usually so full of life and understated humor, she could feel his uncertainty and ghosting grief. He seemed so alone.

                Doubts began to assail the Padawan once again, filling her mind with dread. Could it be that Obi-Wan would walk away from the Temple? Would he turn from his life's work onto another path without her? Her disquiet began to skyrocket. Somehow, she must get him back to himself, back to being the best Jedi Knight in the Order, back to his duty and his honor, back to being her Master. Maybe Jinn's suggestion was a good one after all.

                Atel's voice was hesitant. She knew that he would not agree to such an idea lightly. "Master, the Council might be willing to overlook your last report, if perhaps... if you distanced yourself from this case."

                Obi-Wan's response was instantaneous. He gave a sharp bark of fury, his grey eyes widened and stony with derision. "No!"

                He stepped toward her, voice hoarse with outrage. "Abandon my old Master? For them? What makes you think...." He stopped abruptly as his astute gaze darted toward the closed door of the 'fresher. His face shuttered and stiff, he hissed flatly. "Whose idea was that? Yours?"

                Atel lowered her troubled eyes for a moment, unable to meet his own. "I...."

                He stalked away from her, then twisted, staring at his distraught Padawan Learner. Just as abruptly, Obi-Wan relaxed his rigid stance, shaking his head in grim annoyance. "I should have known. Master Jinn can be a self-sacrificing fool at times."

                She shrugged helplessly. "It seemed a good idea. If you show impartiality, I'm sure that they would forgive your rebellious mission report. Then you might be able to better defend him..."

                Obi-Wan interrupted her once more, gazing at her with censure in his clouded face. "Have you learned nothing these past few days?" His mouth thinned as he shook his head. "They aren't going to forgive anything, Padawan. When we arrive at the Temple, it is very likely that I will be arrested. I may even be expelled from the Order for this."

                Atel's amethyst eyes grew wide with dismay, shaking her head in sharp denial. "No, they wouldn't."

                His swift reply was caustic. "Other Knights have been dismissed for far less."

                The Padawan's protest was quick, wild astonishment in her voice. "But Master, you have done your duty and arrested him... fought off his apprentice and brought Master Jinn to Coruscant. That must count for something. And Master Sle'fey wants you on his committee. He seemed genuinely eager to have you return."

                Obi-Wan grew thoughtful at that. "Yes, Master Sle'fey was anxious to have me at the Temple. I wonder why."

                She moved toward him, gentling her hand as she grasped his arm once more. She yearned to stem the bitterness in his dulled grey eyes. Struggling to find just the right words, the Padawan tried to remind him of just how important he was to her and to the Jedi Order. "It is clear that he feels you would be helpful in the investigation."

                The bitter irony in his words was difficult to ignore. "Oh, yes, I'm sure that is his sole motivation."

                "Master, it may well be. You have uncovered slave trading and an entire Temple of former Force-users. How can that help but impress the Council?"

                He spat back, "Have you considered that he might want me back so that he can monitor my movements, my very thoughts? To have me close so that when the Council decide to punish my actions, I would be within reach."

                Her hand tightened, fingers catching in the fraying cloth. Anxiety spilled across her troubled face. "Surely, you are mistaken. They couldn't possibly..." She broke off abruptly as Jinn opened the 'fresher door and stepped back into the cramped cabin.

                The Bendu seemed quiet, at peace. But his solemn expression made it clear that the short time he had spent away from the Jedi had only begun to work at easing his soul's hurt. He looked toward the now-silent pair, nodded briefly and sat down on the nearest bed. Leaning back against the creme wall, his unbound hair framing his somber face, he closed his eyes. Sinking into stillness, he tried to give the two some semblance of privacy. It didn't work. 

                Obi-Wan turned toward his former Master, a troubled frown scoring the Knight's face. His voice, too, was indignant, the exasperation evident in the tone and the words. "If you think that I will step back and let you suffer alone, you are very much mistaken."

                Qui-Gon's rumbled response was gently spoken. "Obi-Wan, it would be the most prudent course of action."

                The Knight quickly retorted, "I will not abandon you again." He shook off Atel's anxious hand, ignoring her fervent protests of "Listen to him, please". 

                At that, the Bendu sat up, twisting slightly to meet the stormy countenance of his former apprentice. A glimmer of deep concern shaded the stern reply. "You were ever stubborn, even as a child. I see now that the years have not quelled that trait."

                Obi-Wan shot back, derision and indignation clear but the slightest touch of irony crept into his voice. "My Master taught me well."

                Qui-Gon's eyes flashed sapphire, acknowledging the subtle jab. His whispered response was heartfelt, strong. "Your Master was a fool."

                "I did not think so...not then and not now." Glaring back at his old mentor, Obi-Wan abruptly folded his arms, his stance immovable, rock steady. "My Master taught me many things - loyalty, duty, trust..." He paused for a moment, his gaze falling toward Atel and then back again. "He also taught me when to stand fast."

                The Bendu just shook his head; he did not want to be the instrument of Obi-Wan's downfall. "Don't do this, Padawan. You need to protect yourself. Don't throw your life away on something that you cannot change."

                With that, Obi-Wan moved to the edge of the bed, then bending down, hands now firmly planted on his hips, he stared unblinking into the troubled eyes of his old Master. Kenobi's reply was direct, uncompromisingly firm. "Qui-Gon, I have been a Knight for ten years. I believe that I know how to make my own decisions."

                Qui-Gon stilled at that, the mask of stoic acceptance falling like a shroud over his stunned face. Leaning back, his eyes lowered to hide the pain of time forever lost, the Bendu looked abruptly old and care-worn. His murmur was thin, "So you have."

                "Master, don't do this." Obi-Wan sat down, next to the Bendu and, leaning in, gripped the older man's shoulder, shaking him gently. "I want to help you. Let me..."

                At that, the tired gaze of Qui-Gon lifted to that of his old apprentice. "I could never stop you before. It seems foolish to try now." A resigned sigh and Qui-Gon nodded in agreement. "Very well, my Learner, I accept."

                Obi-Wan's face lightened with grateful relief. "Good. I'll get the datapad and we will get started."

                He didn't notice the shuttered face and sharp frown of his Padawan, or the liquid reproach in her violet eyes. Another moment lost to her and Coruscant grew ever closer. There wasn't much time left.