Out of Reach

Artemis (jedilover99@hotmail.com)

Archive: M_A, others please ask

Pairing: Q/O, O/Other male

Rating: NC-17

Category: Hurt/Comfort, Angst

Summary: Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan don't meet until two years after Obi's knighting. Their meeting is charged with attraction and a desire in the Force for them to be together, but there are obstacles including a pre-existing bond, grief, and a master's treachery.

Notes: A thousand thanks to Rushlight. Your writing is an inspiration to me, and I am honored that you beta'd this story and gave me much appreciated feedback. =)

The seed for this tale was planted many months ago when I read Krychick's beautiful "A Light to Guide You." I was fascinated by the idea of Qui and Obi not meeting until after Obi's knighting, and then being immediately drawn together. You'll find that theme repeated here, but that's where the similarity ends.

The term pairbond is used to signify a temporary, mutually agreed upon bonding between two Jedi (usually newly knighted Jedi). The bonding supports a working, loving relationship. This is different from the less common lifebond in which the Jedi are permanently bonded/mated to one another even after death.

** ** denotes written messages

[ ] denotes personal thoughts

// // denotes sent or read thoughts

Disclaimer: They belong to George. Ho-hum.

Feedback: Oh, definitely. On or off-list

The Council meeting had gone much longer than expected and Qui-Gon Jinn was becoming agitated. He'd only been on the Council a few months, but had already formed the opinion that it was mired in bureaucracy and too much discussion. The endless stream of visitors that day made it no more pleasant until...

"Knight Kenobi," Yoda said, announcing the young Jedi.

The twenty-six year old Jedi had achieved knighthood two years previously and was already making a name for himself as one of the most promising in the Order. He walked into the Council chambers with what Qui-Gon identified immediately as a swagger.

[Arrogance?] He wondered. If that were true, then why would Yoda speak so highly of him?

"Yes, masters," the knight said, and bowed. Sandy blond hair fell to his shoulders, obscuring his face slightly.

There was a light about him. A Force light, that only another Force-sensitive could see, and yet Qui-Gon believed he was the only one to notice the brilliance emitting from this young man.

"Come here to be praised young Kenobi. Your mission's success an achievement for all," Yoda said.

"Thank you, master," he bowed again slightly, this time just to Yoda.

Yoda noticed Qui-Gon's intense gaze on the young knight and sensed his curiosity. "Knight Kenobi spent many years away from the Temple. His master Yuta Mulan." This directed to Qui-Gon.

"New to the Council is Master Qui-Gon Jinn," Yoda said, now to the knight.

Kenobi bowed to the Council member. "Master Jinn," he said, and when he raised his head his eyes met Qui-Gon's, lingering for slightly longer than appropriate.

Yoda cleared his throat. "May the Force be with you."

The knight bowed and left.

When the door closed behind him and the young knight was no longer in view, Qui-Gon found himself breathing again. He didn't know at what point he had stopped breathing, but it must have been not long after the young man had entered the room.

The Council adjourned, and Qui-Gon and Yoda were the last to leave the chamber.

"Time there will be to see Kenobi later," the old master said.

Qui-Gon stood motionless at his master's words. "He seems a capable knight."

"Hmph," Yoda voiced. "Guard your feelings you should, Qui-Gon."

Qui-Gon bowed to the venerated Jedi master and then left the chambers. Surely Yoda was merely cautioning him that his shielding may have slipped a little. It would be unfortunate if the knight was aware of his immediate attraction to him.

His next opportunity to see the young man came a few hours later at a reception for several newly knighted Jedi. At least fifty Jedi were in attendance, including the Council members, and to Qui-Gon's relief, Knight Kenobi. He wasted little time in approaching the young man.

The younger Jedi bowed. "Good evening, Master Jinn," he said.

Qui-Gon cautiously feasted on the young man's lean body. Trying not to let his eyes rake too noticeably over him. He was pleased the young Jedi had not worn his brown robe this evening, giving him a chance to verify what he already suspected... he was indeed beautiful in every way.

"The Council was very pleased by your ability to negotiate the inter-species treaty. It was no small accomplishment," Qui-Gon said, feeling it easiest to start the conversation with business.

"I am honored by their praise, and yet confused by it," the knight admitted.

"Confused, how so?"

"That treaty was begun by Master Perlal. I only oversaw its conclusion when he became ill and had to return to Coruscant."

"You believe the credit should go to Master Perlal?"

"Yes."

"Then you have underestimated your role. Surely you can see that his unfortunate illness nearly shattered the peace talks. Your quick study of the situation and diplomatic skills allowed you to step almost flawlessly into the talks." Qui-Gon was near beaming with the accomplishment of this young man. He had read up on the treaty negotiations after the Council meeting.

The knight's gaze shifted downward uneasily.

"You are too modest, Knight Kenobi," Qui-Gon said, and took the liberty of putting his hand on the young man's shoulder.

The younger Jedi looked into his eyes and locked on him. "Please, call me Obi-Wan," he said and smiled, the blue-green depths of his eyes drawing the older Jedi into his very soul.

Qui-Gon smiled in return. "Thank you, Obi-Wan." He would have liked to tell the young man to call him by his first name, but he knew that was against protocol. At least in formal situations such as this.

"May I get you something to drink, Master Jinn?"

"Yes, brandy would be nice. Thank you."

Obi-Wan nodded and left his side to retrieve their drinks. As soon as the young man had left his presence, Qui-Gon was miserable. He hadn't felt this way about anyone since he was a young man first exploring his own sexuality. This knight definitely had a profound affect on his senses and he wanted more than anything to get to know him better. So far, that seemed mutually acceptable.

Several minutes later Obi-Wan returned. He handed a glass of brandy to the Jedi master... their fingers touching briefly in the exchange. If Qui-Gon didn't know better, he'd say this young man was flirting with him.

"I'd enjoy a walk in the gardens. Would you care to join me, Obi-Wan?"

"Yes, thank you."

The two left the reception and walked down the corridor to one of the upper levels in the Temple's extensive gardens. Obi-Wan was already finished with his drink, but Qui-Gon nursed his in order to have a prop to conceal his nervousness. They were alone now, far removed from the celebration. Though there were other Jedi in distant parts of the garden, none were close enough for conversation.

"You've been away from Coruscant a long time," Qui-Gon began.

"Master Mulan liked to keep busy. I suppose I've continued in that tradition."

Qui-Gon nodded. "I met your master many years ago. I seem to recall he was a very patient man."

Obi-Wan bowed his head slightly. "His death was very difficult for me."

"Of course. But I understand he was able to celebrate your knighting. That is fortunate."

The young man grinned. "I was his fifth apprentice. By the time he took me as his Padawan he was already seventy-five standard years."

"An amazing accomplishment. I am sure he is very proud of you," Qui-Gon said, referring to the man in the present tense in the Jedi belief that there is no death, only the Force, and that Master Mulan was now one with the Force.

"What about you?" Obi-Wan asked, trying to lighten the mood. "Where have you been hiding all these years?"

The question seemed to imply that Qui-Gon had been hiding from Obi-Wan. He wanted to assure the young man that had he'd known he existed he would've cut a path with his bare hands through thickets of Rodarian bristle brush.

"I've been training my own Padawans. Three all together."

"Three, huh?"

Qui-Gon cringed. He was sure the young man was trying to calculate his age. "Fifty-five standard years, if you must know," he said, almost defiantly.

Obi-Wan laughed. "All you Jedi masters are the same... nothing gets past you."

The older Jedi raised his eyebrow at that. "Maybe you should take an apprentice. Have a turn at being the master."

"No, no. Not just yet. I'm not ready for that... maybe in a year or two."

Qui-Gon nodded, understanding the hesitation in taking an apprentice. "It is a tremendous responsibility, but one you will cherish."

Neither had noticed that their walk had led them deeper into the gardens. They had reached the butterfly garden, and when they stopped to take in its beauty the lovely velvety blue and purple winged creatures began landing on them. They lighted on anything that didn't move, or barely moved, and were unafraid of the Jedi visitors.

The two Jedi took great pleasure in watching the colorful insects light on each other. Each had at least a dozen on his arms and head, and in Obi-Wan's case, the tip of his nose. His eyes were crossed trying to see the tiny invader.

"Now what do I do?" he asked in a whisper... since loud voices were prohibited in this part of the garden.

"Be still, Obi-Wan, and delight in the fact that it finds your nose a suitable landing pad."

With that Obi-Wan burst into laughter and all the butterflies were in flight once again.

"I'm sorry," he chuckled. "But that was quite funny."

Qui-Gon watched with great satisfaction as the young man tried to regain his composure. He had the suspicion that he hadn't had a good laugh in months, and this break was very much needed.

Obi-Wan was patting Qui-Gon's arm with his hand while he continued to be tickled by the joke. He was shaking his head in bewilderment. "I can't believe a Council member could actually have a sense of humor."

"Well, I haven't been on the Council that long. Maybe in a few more months..."

And Obi-Wan started laughing again. Force, if the sound of his laughter wasn't the most beautiful thing Qui-Gon had ever heard.

Too soon the young man had gotten himself under control, only to find he was in Qui-Gon's arms. In the fun and confusion of the butterflies they had stepped closer and now had their arms around each other. Qui-Gon didn't move, and when Obi-Wan realized what had happened he straightened his posture, but didn't pull away. He just gazed into Qui-Gon's eyes. Blue-green looking into deeper blue. The feel of their arms around each other seemed right, and the next thing they knew they were leaning into each other, lips brushing lightly, and then going deeper into a searing kiss. Their mouths fell open naturally and tongues began to tease, exploring the warmth within. They pressed together and time stood still... briefly.

Obi-Wan was the first to withdraw. He looked into Qui-Gon's eyes guiltily. "I'm sorry," and pulled completely out of the older man's touch.

"You should never be sorry for a kiss like that," Qui-Gon mused.

"I... I really should go," Obi-Wan said, and turned to leave.

Qui-Gon watched in a dazed confusion laced with the remaining tingling sensation of pressed lips. A barely audible "wait," escaped his throat, but the young man did not hear him, or simply would not obey. He was frozen. Maybe he had forced himself on the knight. After all, his position on the Council was very intimidating to other Jedi. Maybe Obi-Wan thought he had to kiss him. Oh, Sith, he hoped that wasn't the case. He finally managed to move and pursued Obi-Wan to clear up the matter. He didn't want this coming between them. If nothing else, he wanted to be friends with this vibrant young man.

Obi-Wan was moving faster than he anticipated and had reached the reception hall quite a bit before Qui-Gon. As the Jedi master approached the hall he saw Obi-Wan standing with a group of other knights. He started to close on them, but stopped cold when he noticed another young knight approaching with determined steps. The knight was young, about the same build and age as Obi-Wan, but with long auburn hair smoothed back into a braid. He watched in quiet pain as this good looking knight grabbed Obi-Wan from behind and swung him around to give him a very public and wet kiss.

"Force, I've missed you," the young man said.

Obi-Wan smiled broadly. "Aleki!" And he returned the embrace and offered an equally passionate kiss.

Qui-Gon was startled out of his voyeurism by a hand on his shoulder. "Mace," he said, turning to his Council mate.

"Young love is hypnotic," Mace said, knowingly.

"Yes," Qui-Gon responded automatically.

"They are a bonded pair, and I think a good match."

"Bonded?"

"Yes, pairbonded, since just after Kenobi's ascension to knighthood. I believe they had been lovers as Padawans."

Qui-Gon felt his chest constricting. Nearly half of all knighted Jedi pairbonded to form a working and loving relationship. The support system was encouraged by the Council who well understood the difficulties and loneliness of being a Jedi knight. When resources permitted, the pairs were allowed to go on missions together.

"I'm suddenly feeling very tired," Qui-Gon said to Mace and then retired to his quarters.

He left the reception hall without looking back... not seeing that Obi-Wan was watching him and regretting the hurt he had caused. He would have to explain his actions to the master Jedi later. But for now, Aleki Runalt was back in his arms.

The two young Jedi made love through the night. They hadn't seen each other in over three months their longest separation since their bonding almost two years ago. But as Obi-Wan thrust in and out of his lover he couldn't stop thinking about the look on Qui-Gon's face when he had left the hall.

"Sith, you're horny tonight," Aleki moaned, not noticing the slight change in Obi-Wan's rhythm.

"I've... been... saving it... all... for you," he grunted with each thrust.

"You mean you didn't even jerk off while I was gone? Geez, Obi, that's sweet," he moaned again as the thrusts quickened.

Now Obi-Wan had a hand on Aleki's hardened cock and began pumping in time with his own thrusts. It required more concentration... perhaps more than he could manage tonight. That image. That face again. Now the pumping and thrusting were off.

"Hello..." Aleki called out from under him. "Hello up there? I'm not going to come like this."

Obi-Wan let go of Aleki's member and pulled out quickly.

"Bantha piss. What do you think you're doing?" Aleki's voice was raised now. He flopped face down on the bed turning his head to stare at Obi-Wan who was standing to the side of the bed with his hands on his hips. His cock still achingly aroused.

"What's with you tonight? It started off great... two orgasms no problem... but you're usually good for three or four," Aleki noted.

Obi-Wan took a deep breath. He needed to focus. Why the Sith couldn't he get Qui-Gon's face out of his mind?

"I'm sorry. I guess I have something on my mind."

"Oh, that's just great," Aleki got off the bed and was grabbing his robe. "That's the curse of death for any relationship. You're not attracted to me anymore."

Obi-Wan's eyes grew wide. "How can you say that? Look at me!" he said, pointing to his still very erect penis.

"Then what could possibly be plaguing your mind at a time like this?"

"A Council member," Obi-Wan said finally.

"Huh?" Aleki asked.

Obi-Wan didn't have any intention of telling his bondmate about kissing the Jedi master, but he needed to broach the subject at least a little.

"I was speaking to Master Qui-Gon Jinn tonight before you arrived at the reception. He's only recently been appointed to the Council."

Aleki was now sitting on the edge of the bed.

"I think he may have misunderstood something I ... said."

"Oh, that's all? Well, I wouldn't worry about it too much. You'll probably never see him again. The Council members tend to keep to themselves." Aleki was now stroking Obi-Wan's cock with his hand. "Come on, lover. I'm sure whatever you said has been forgotten by now." He slid off the bed to his knees, and quickly wrapped his hot, wet mouth around Obi-Wan's thick cock taking him fully and letting his lover thrust gently into it.

"I don't deserve you, Aleki," he moaned, holding the other man's head as it moved over him. And then a hiss escaped him as he felt his lover removing that fabulous mouth.

"I can forgive a lot for the best kisser in the Republic," Aleki said hopping onto the bed again, throwing his robe open, and spreading his legs. "Now fuck me, or I'll really get mad."

The next morning they decided to have breakfast in the company of other Jedi. After a long night and morning of lovemaking, it probably would've been better to stay confined to their quarters since their revived bond was glowing for all the Force sensitives to see but it'd been so long since Aleki had been in the company of other Jedi that it just felt right to join them for their morning meal.

Qui-Gon cringed when he saw them come into the dining hall. Aleki looked well-fucked, and Obi-Wan seemed no worse for the workout the other man had given him.

Mace noticed how Qui-Gon tensed when the two knights appeared. "Is there something you'd like to tell me, Qui-Gon?" Mace asked. They had been close friends for many years.

"Nothing that a little meditation won't resolve," Qui-Gon said flatly.

"Really? Then I'd think your mood would have improved since last night... Or maybe you meant to say a little 'more' meditation will help."

Qui-Gon gave his friend a sideways glance. "I'm just a foolish old man, Mace. Nothing more and nothing less."

"Which one has you so enthralled? Kenobi or Runalt?"

Qui-Gon shook his head. "I'm not talking about this."

"Maybe not now, but you will," Mace grinned knowingly.

Obi-Wan had noticed Master Jinn almost as soon as they'd entered the hall. He was dining with Master Windu and discussing something intently no doubt Council business. He had meant to look away, but he couldn't take his eyes from him. And then it was too late... their eyes met across the room. Obi-Wan gave a slight gasp when he saw the pain that lay behind Master Jinn's blue eyes, and then forced himself to turn away.

"Who's that with Master Windu?" Aleki asked as they took a seat with several other knights.

"That's the new Council member, Master Jinn."

"Oh, that's who you were talking about last night. You know, I think I've heard about him. He's some sort of legend. One of the best negotiators the Jedi have ever had... and known for his brilliance in battle," Aleki said.

Another knight joined the conversation. "He was injured about a year ago... nearly died."

Obi-Wan sat motionless absorbing every word.

"Yes, I'd heard that too. Took him nearly six months to recover and then the Council asked him to join them."

"He is unable to fight now?" Obi-Wan asked.

"I don't know," Knight T'mar shrugged. "I think the Council decided they didn't want to risk losing one of their best, after he'd come so close to dying."

Obi-Wan found his eyes wandering to the masters' table again. Qui-Gon had his back to him, but he stared at that back and began to learn the details of the man's body and long, silvery brown hair. He wasn't sure why, but it bothered him deeply that Master Jinn had almost died. Except for the skill of the Jedi Healers, they would never have met.

An elbow in his ribs brought him back to the conversation. "Obi, I was just saying that I didn't realize that's who you were talking about last night. I think you'd better apologize," Aleki said.

"What did you do, Obi-Wan?" Knight T'mar asked.

"Nothing. Just a slight misunderstanding," Obi-Wan said, trying his best to act casual about an incident he knew very well could put him on the "outs" with the Council. "I'll draft an apology after breakfast," he said to Aleki, and the auburn haired man grinned back at him.

Qui-Gon did not return to his quarters until late that afternoon. He threw his robe on a chair and dropped onto the couch. He was tired and not the good kind of tired he'd felt when he was on missions and flying across the galaxy to prevent civil wars from erupting. This was a sitting-all-day-getting-nowhere kind of tired and he disliked it intensely.

His communications panel was beeping softly. He leaned over and pressed the retrieve key and saw that he had five messages... and one was from Knight Kenobi. He took a deep breath and moved over to the panel.

**Master Jinn, I feel I must apologize again for last night.**

He stopped there. Turning his eyes away from the monitor. Why was this so damn hard? Why was he in such turmoil over a man he had known less than 24 hours? He swallowed his pride and returned to the letter. He needed to know what the knight had to say to him.

**I am not sure what came over me to act that way. I had no right, and as I'm sure you've discovered by now, I am pairbonded to Knight Aleki Runalt. I hope the events of last evening will not keep us from getting to know each other further. I enjoyed our conversation and your sense of humor. It has been a long time since I laughed like that.**

Qui-Gon smiled. He had thought as much.

**I am scheduled to be on Coruscant for the next several weeks. I hope we will have the opportunity to speak again. Knight Kenobi.**

Qui-Gon leaned back in his chair and considered the young man's words. So, he had been caught up in the moment as well. He had heard of people being immediately drawn to one another, but he had never experienced it for himself. It was a shame that he really wouldn't be able to experience it now either. Obi-Wan was pairbonded and had made it very clear that last night was a mistake. Qui-Gon would need to meditate on his tumultuous feelings before he could face the young man again. If he couldn't have him for a lover then he would have to settle for a friend.

Out of courtesy and friendship he sent a brief reply. **Apology accepted. Master Jinn.**

Five days passed before their paths crossed again. Qui-Gon thought he had his feelings under control until he saw Obi-Wan in the training hall. The young knight was dueling with another knight thankfully not Aleki Runalt. Qui-Gon stayed to the back of the arena so as not to disturb their exercise, or the other young trainees who were working out in the hall. The presence of a Council member always put the younger Jedi on edge and he had no wish to distract them, only observe.

Obi-Wan's technique was quite good, and his movements fluid, almost hypnotic in their rhythm. Qui-Gon was reminded of himself as a knight, but this young man had more of a taste for battle than he. He could feel the Force flowing around the knight and see the gleam in his eyes as he swung at his opponent. Yes, he was made to do battle.

Knight T'mar finally conceded. "You bested me again, Obi-Wan. I think you enjoy fighting a little too much for your own good," he smiled sincerely at his friend.

"It's the Force. It's with me in battle," Obi-Wan said, and then noticed Qui-Gon approaching. He turned and bowed. "Master Jinn, I did not see you..."

"Sometimes that is best. Knights tend to get uneasy when Council members are about," he grinned.

Obi-Wan was relieved to see in the master's eyes that he truly had been forgiven.

"I was about to practice one of my katas, but we may speak if you'd like," Obi-Wan offered.

Knight T'mar was looking very puzzled and unsteady with the evident familiarity of the two.

"I would enjoy that, but I am scheduled to meet with the head master of the creche now," Qui-Gon said.

"Then join us tonight," Obi-Wan said, his eyes glowing.

T'mar's mouth dropped open in obvious shock at his friend's unauthorized invitation. They were all going out for a drink, and it would certainly ruin their evening if a stuffy old master joined them.

The knight's discomfort did not go unnoticed by the master Jedi. "Thank you, but I think you overestimate the comfort level of your friends."

Obi-Wan looked at T'mar and grinned wearily. "Of course. It's not the custom for masters and knights to socialize," he bowed to Qui-Gon and returned to his training.

"T'mar told me you actually invited Master Jinn to join us for drinks tonight. What were you thinking?" Aleki asked as he helped clear the kitchen table. "He accepted your apology. It's not like you have to kiss and make up."

Obi-Wan's eyes widened. "Why did you say that?"

"It's just an expression. I didn't know you were so concerned about what the Council thinks of you. Let it go already."

"I don't suppose you would understand if I told that I actually enjoyed speaking with Master Jinn. He's got a great sense of humor."

With that Aleki stopped putting the dishes in the sink and turned to look at Obi-Wan. He leaned back on the counter. "If we weren't pairbonded I'd say you have a thing for this Master Jinn."

"That's ridiculous and you know it."

"Is it? Being bonded hasn't stopped anyone from drooling over you."

"Or you!" Obi-Wan added quickly.

Aleki grinned. "Sounding silly now, aren't I?"

Obi-Wan set aside his dishes and wrapped his arms around Aleki's waist. They were nearly the same height and their eyes met dead-on. Aleki needed reassurance, and Obi-Wan had missed his lover, so he began wooing the other young man. "I love how your sage tunic enhances the green in your eyes... and I love the way you roll your r's when you speak Juraldi..." He was kissing his lover on the neck now. "And those fantastic biceps of yours," he was pulling at Aleki's tunic with his teeth now. "And Force how you scream when I come inside you!"

Aleki lost control and pushed Obi-Wan back onto the table, his lips hard and passionate on the other man's. With a little help from the Force, he turned Obi-Wan around and slipped his hands under his tunic to untie his pants. He slid the beige leggings down to expose that wonderfully firm ass, and then unleashed his own already hard cock. He nestled his shaft in the crevass of Obi-Wan's ass, and then reached for the cooking oil.

"We've got some catching up to do," Aleki growled, and slicked his fingers before pushing two inside his bondmate.

Obi-Wan moaned at the intimate contact, "what was last night?"

"A down payment."

Within seconds he was withdrawing his fingers and plunging his cock into Obi-Wan's backside. Obi-Wan groaned loudly, delighted in the sensation of Aleki inside him. They had been lovers for seven years, though not regularly until their bonding, and all too rarely Aleki was the aggressor, the penetrator. More than not, he wanted to be the one being penetrated. It occurred to Obi-Wan that this lovemaking was a taking. That Aleki was claiming him against a perceived rival... Qui-Gon Jinn.

Obi-Wan began to need more from his lover and leaned back into the thrusts, taking his own cock in hand to relieve its needs. Aleki had a firm grip on Obi-Wan's hips and was thrusting with fierce desire. They would come very quickly at this rate, but the need was so great, that neither could abate it if he tried. They rocked and thrusted and came together in minutes.

The group of five friends took an airbus into a respectable club district and then made their way on foot to The Assassin Droid, a sheik, if not edgy club for the uppercrust of Coruscant. It was one of the few clubs on the planet that a Jedi could walk into and not expect to be attacked. Even on their home planet they were considered a threat. Since the atmosphere was hospitable to their kind they wore their uniforms with dignity and took a corner table in the candlelit establishment.

It was the candles that brought Aleki back here time and again. He loved the natural light. The way the soft orange glow flickered and made everyone's features that much softer and more relaxed. Even his serious Obi-Wan looked contented.

He put his arm around his lover's waist and enjoyed the closeness they shared. The last year had been a trial for them both. The months that followed their bonding had been a breeze. The Council had made an effort to give them "simple" missions together to allow them time to solidify the bond. But unfortunately that couldn't last since skilled knights were a rare commodity and it was seen as a luxury to send two knights on any mission leave that for the Masters' and their Padawans. The current year had found them on continuous missions, with separations lasting one to three months. It was driving Aleki insane. He was so desperately in love with his Obi-Wan.

Their friends were in good spirits this night. T'mar was alone, as usual, but Kreelon had brought his new love Sulta, which made everyone happy. Kreelon, a Calamarian had fretted for years that he would never find a compatible mate, and then one day, when he had stopped looking, he met Knight Sulta a Calamarian female. Within days it was obvious they were made for each other, and now they were beginning to talk about bonding. Even T'mar could put aside his loneliness to share in the joy of his friends.

They weren't at the club more than an hour when several more Jedi arrived.

"Masters," Kreelon said softly, and the knights tried to conceal themselves by pulling further into the corner.

It was to no avail. Jedi could not easily hide from other Jedi. They had sensed each other's presence immediately and Obi-Wan had picked up on Qui-Gon's Force signature before he had walked in the door.

Masters Windu, Trilar, and Jinn greeted the knights only briefly. Long enough for everyone to see each other. Obi-Wan fought hard to suppress an excited grin when he saw Qui-Gon. They nodded to each other, and then all the knights introduced themselves. It was difficult for Qui-Gon to see Obi-Wan with his bondmate who apparently was very possessive by the way he had his arm wrapped tightly around his waist. The masters retreated to another room where they could speak privately and give the knights the space they deserved.

Aleki had sensed the change in Obi-Wan when Master Jinn had approached the table, but he let his uneasiness pass. "Let's dance," Aleki proposed, and with a kiss to Obi-Wan's cheek pulled him to the dance floor.

Obi-Wan was a bit self-conscious about dancing. None of his friends understood why since he was by far the most graceful and the most rhythmic. That shone clearly in his dueling and in his katas. So, Aleki did most of the dancing. Gyrating around Obi-Wan like a night beast in heat.

The music pulsed around them, and the candlelight that they so enjoyed was now just a memory as the strobe lights and rotating blue and green lights whirled. Aleki was not subtle about his feelings for Obi-Wan and the dance floor seemed to allow him more freedom in expressing them. As their bodies pumped and bobbed to the music, Aleki straddled one of Obi-Wan's thighs and began humping it shamelessly; his growing erection rubbing against the other man's thigh and stomach.

"You'd think Aleki would learn," Kreelon said. "He does this every time, and Obi-Wan has yet to snap under the pressure."

T'mar laughed. "Maybe not snap, but look at how hard he has to concentrate to keep his control. I think that's what Aleki loves to see."

After several dances like that, Aleki's arousal was painfully obvious. "Come on, Obi... take me," he nodded to the back of the bar and nearly had to shout in his lover's ear to be heard over the music.

Obi-Wan shook his head. "Not here. We can't risk being seen."

For a moment, Obi-Wan swore he saw Aleki's green eyes go flame red. "Always a Jedi first and a man second, huh, Obi?"

The chestnut haired knight turned tail, and Obi-Wan knew he was heading for the men's room to beat-off in private. He shook his head. Aleki had brought this frustration on himself, and Obi-Wan would not risk the honor of the Jedi Order for a quick fuck in the alley.

He decided to get Aleki another drink before he returned to the table and his friends. Walking up to the bar, he recognized the already familiar form of Qui-Gon Jinn.

"Master Jinn," Obi-Wan greeted, his heart pounding in his chest.

"Knight Kenobi. I see you like to dance."

Obi-Wan blushed. Even if Qui-Gon had only glimpsed the scene on the dance floor there was no way he could've missed what was happening out there.

"Aleki is the dancer. I am only... the prop," he grinned, still embarrassed.

Qui-Gon nodded in forced amusement. It had been very difficult for him to watch. And yet he had watched. Unable to look away from the beauty that was Obi-Wan Kenobi.

By now they had their drinks, and without an invitation, Obi-Wan followed Qui-Gon to a side room with couches and tables. A more sophisticated space for quieter, more intimate conversation and card games. Masters Windu and Trilar were no where to be seen.

[ ? ] Obi-Wan thought.

"They're here somewhere," Qui-Gon responded, seeming to hear Obi-Wan's question. "I'm sure they've found a quiet corner."

Obi-Wan nodded in silent understanding. [They're a couple.]

Qui-Gon sat on the arm of one of the couches while Obi-Wan remained standing in front of him.

"You are very generous, Master Jinn," Obi-Wan began.

"In what way?"

"Under the circumstances I would have expected some admonishment for my behavior."

"That's behind us, Obi-Wan. I thought we were in agreement on that."

The knight grinned. He just wanted to be sure.

"And how was your meeting at the creche today?" Obi-Wan asked, not sure what else to talk about.

"Fine, if you think getting a list of demands for improvements shoved in your face a proper greeting for a member of the Council," Qui-Gon's tone was calm, but hinted at the displeasure he was still obviously feeling over the incident.

"I'm sure he didn't..."

"He knew what he was doing. I'm new on the Council and he'd run out of options with the other members."

"And how are you finding your new position?" Obi-Wan asked.

"Under the circumstances... adequate."

"Circumstances?"

"You're too young to be concerned with such things."

"I'm twenty-six," Obi-Wan said almost defiantly.

"Half my age," Qui-Gon smiled. "A lot will change for you in the next several decades, my friend."

[Friend.] Obi-Wan liked the sound of that and let the word repeat in his mind several times.

"I wonder why we never met before?" Obi-Wan said, feeling close to Qui-Gon again.

"The Force did not wish it."

"And it wishes it now?" the young man asked. "Why now?" he repeated.

"It is best not to question the Force..." Qui-Gon began, but his next words were swallowed by Obi-Wan's mouth on his in a very hot kiss. The master Jedi nearly lost his balance, but the younger man grabbed his thighs to keep him firmly in place. The kiss grew deeper as Obi-Wan pushed the older man's lips apart with his tongue to explore further, but Qui-Gon pulled away.

"I don't appreciate being made a fool, Knight Kenobi," the master Jedi's tone firm. Even though Qui-Gon desired the young man, after the events of the previous night and the knowledge of the other man's bond, it wasn't right.

Obi-Wan took a step back. He was just as confused. He had been immediately drawn to the master Jedi from the moment he laid eyes on him in the Council chambers. And ever since, he'd been fighting the urge to be with him... to touch him. An urge that was almost inescapable. He had no explanation except that he felt compelled by the Force.

"I..." Before Obi-Wan could blurt out any form of apology or explanation, Aleki appeared at his side.

"There you are... I see you have my drink," the young man said, picking up the fizzing specialty drink. "Am I interrupting something?"

"We... we were just discussing the improvements needed in the creche," Obi-Wan spoke quickly.

"The creche?" Aleki asked. "Sounds very enlightening," his eyebrow raised. "I'm going to rejoin our friends... are you coming Obi-Wan?" he asked and bowed slightly to the master Jedi.

Obi-Wan lowered his eyes and gave a rehearsed bow to the older Jedi also, before heading back to the other room with his bondmate.

Back in their shared quarters, Aleki hit the bed with a thud. After rejoining their friends, he had proceeded to drink until he was nearly blind with the effects of the alcohol. Obi-Wan had never seen his love so eager to get drunk before. But he allowed it. The young man needed it for some reason. And since he wasn't making a fool of himself, there was really no harm in it.

Somehow Aleki managed to wake up before Obi-Wan the next morning. He showered and dressed and left their quarters to meditate alone in the gardens. Obi-Wan found a note on the data pad at the foot of the bed. **Couldn't sleep anymore. Sorry I got so drunk last night. See you for dinner. Yours, Aleki.**

Nothing unusual about the message, but Obi-Wan felt uneasy. What if Aleki had seen him kissing Qui-Gon? How would he explain himself when he didn't even understand the nature of the attraction? He shrugged off the feeling and went into the common area where the communications panel was beeping with a message.

"It's from Master Jinn," he said aloud, as if that would make it more real. He quickly pulled the message up on the monitor.

** Meet me at the Council chambers at 11th hour. We need to talk.**

Obi-Wan swallowed. 'We need to talk' was never a good thing.

He arrived at the Council chambers a few minutes early and hesitated going in. The guard looked at him curiously, but Obi-Wan wasn't quite ready. He could sense Qui-Gon's presence on the other side of the wall and feared this might be the last time they spoke. And meeting here, at the heart of all things Jedi, told Obi-Wan that this was serious indeed.

The guard grew impatient with Obi-Wan's pacing, and finally the young Jedi signaled to let him in. Obi-Wan stepped through the manual double doors into the awesome round space of the Council. The room never failed to impress him and send his nerve endings prickling. But today, the chambers were quiet and empty save for one very recognizable figure at the far window---Qui-Gon Jinn. The Jedi master was looking onto the busy air traffic of Galactic City, his hands clasped behind his back, the yellow brightness of the new day silhouetting him. He was the most beautiful thing Obi-Wan had ever seen.

Qui-Gon turned to meet his eyes. "Is it 11th hour already?"

Obi-Wan was surprised by the question. Had he been meditating and lost track of time? Or was he, too, not looking forward to this conversation?

"You wanted to speak with me?" the young knight asked, folding his hands into the sleeves of his robe to conceal his nervousness. He stepped to the center of the room; a place he was familiar with from having reported to the Council from this position before.

"Yes. I'm sure you know why," Qui-Gon said, moving toward him from behind the Council chairs.

Obi-Wan didn't like the sound of Qui-Gon's voice. It had a heaviness that was uncharacteristic of what he knew of the master. "I don't know what to say to you, Master Jinn. I truly felt driven by the Force to..."

Qui-Gon held up his hand. "I don't want to hear it. You've already apologized once, a second time for the same offense would only be a mockery."

Offense? He thought the kisses an offense? Obi-Wan flushed. "But I'm not sorry for kissing you."

"Then your apology was not sincere?"

"I apologized because I did not want to lose your friendship. But I still can't explain my actions... I'm not trying to hurt you or Aleki." There were tears forming at the corners of his eyes. He gritted his teeth against revealing his turmoil. "I am finding it very hard to resist you."

He dropped to his knees at the center of the chamber. Humbling himself before the man he now realized he desperately needed. He raised his eyes, pleading with the master Jedi who stood just a few meters away... out of reach.

"Are you accusing me of trying to seduce you, Knight?"

"No, Master. Of course not," Obi-Wan shook his head. The tears were falling down his cheeks. He was in pain. Torn between two lives the one he had with Aleki and the one he needed with Qui-Gon.

Qui-Gon came closer. The emotional release that the young man was experiencing was oddly erotic. He instinctively put his hands on Obi-Wan's head to comfort him. A wave of pleasure rippled up through his fingers, palms, wrists, and arms, simply from the touch. The shoulder length golden hair was soft, and Obi-Wan's sobs irresistible.

"It will be all right, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon said softly in consolation.

With those words, Obi-Wan wrapped his arms around the older Jedi's legs, and pulled him close. His face nuzzled into the man's stomach. His tears staining the master's tunic. Qui-Gon moaned at the sensation of Obi-Wan's warm breath near his groin. Even through his tunic and pants he could feel the desperate gasps of the young man, and began to ache for him. But someone had to be reasonable here. Obviously this attraction was powerful, but it was also wrong.

"This is not helping the situation," Qui-Gon said finally, and gently pulled Obi-Wan's arms from his legs. "I think it would be best if we didn't see each other again."

"No!" Obi-Wan shouted as if his life had just been threatened.

The sudden outburst sent Qui-Gon's heart pounding in his chest. "It is for the best, Obi-Wan. You must see that," the master Jedi continued.

The knight was shaking his head continuously now. "No. Not acceptable. I must see you. I must be with you." As far as Obi-Wan was concerned he had no choice in the matter. He had to be with Qui-Gon.

He was pushing forward now, still on his knees, forcing Qui-Gon back, back until he stumbled into one of the Council chairs and was forcibly seated. With determination in his eyes he crawled between Qui-Gon's legs, his hands outstretched and reaching for the master's face.

"I can see it. The Force. It's here. It surrounds us," Obi-Wan was saying as he cupped the Jedi's face with his hands.

Qui-Gon's verbal protestations had stopped. Could the Force really be drawing them together? But for what purpose? He looked into those pained and beautiful blue-green eyes and was captured. The young man was kneeling before him in worship. Qui-Gon could not resist, and with silent consent, he allowed Obi-Wan to draw himself up, up to his face. Any thoughts of refusal were swept away when that wonderful, wild mouth pressed a hard kiss to his lips.

When they pulled back for breath, Obi-Wan voiced his renewed determination. "I want you, Qui-Gon. I will have you." And his hands were on the older man, moving under his robe, searching desperately for skin, but finding only layers of tunics.

The sound of the young knight using his given name made Qui-Gon burn with desire. He nodded his acceptance, and didn't hinder the young man's attempts at loosening his leggings and releasing what was now a very wanting cock. Without preamble Obi-Wan's mouth swallowed his length, sending a dizzying wave of emotion over the master.

"Yes," Qui-Gon moaned, and let his head fall back and his eyes close in ecstasy as that mouth devoured him. All thoughts of the rightness or wrongness of this relationship, and this encounter happening here in the Council chambers, vanished.

Obi-Wan moaned hungrily as he sucked and licked and pulled at Qui-Gon's hardened member. It was the most delicious, hedonistic moment of his life, and he wanted it to continue indefinitely, but his new lover would not last much longer. Qui-Gon was digging his fingers into Obi-Wan's shoulders urgently, signaling his imminent climax. Then, with a low cry of abandon, he came, spurting forcefully into the young knight's mouth, wanting desperately to fill him fully with his seed. To claim his mouth, claim every part of him.

Time had slipped by. And when Qui-Gon regained full consciousness he found Obi-Wan still kneeling before him with his head lying sleepily in his lap. He shook the young man gently. Obi-Wan opened his eyes and smiled. He sat back on his heels and licked his lips, reminding Qui-Gon of the intimacy they had just shared, and that a part of him now flowed inside the young man's body. Qui-Gon shivered at the intense sexual nature of their relationship.

"Oh, Obi-Wan..." he began, wanting to somehow organize his thoughts and clarify what was happening to them. But he sensed someone approaching the chambers, and stood, quickly refastening his leggings and smoothing his tunics. Without a word, Obi-Wan understood, and removed himself to the center of the chambers where he pulled his robe around him and slid his arms inside his sleeves to stand in attentive Jedi posture.

Mace Windu entered the room. "Master Jinn? Knight Kenobi? I did not realize the chambers were in use," Mace said, his eyes darting between the two men. "The Council is meeting shortly, but I can wait outside until..."

"We are finished," Qui-Gon said in his standard calm voice. "Knight Kenobi," he looked at Obi-Wan, "I would like to continue this discussion later."

"Yes, Master," Obi-Wan said and bowed deeply, concealing the thrill he felt at those words. He bowed to Mace and then left the room.

Mace carefully watched the knight turn and leave. "What was that about?" he asked.

"Since when is it against the Code for two Jedi to have a conversation?"

"Since one of those Jedi is bonded and the other is on the Council and has the hots for him," Mace said, matter-of-factly, the scent of sex still wafting in the air.

"You're out of line, Mace."

"Am I? We've been friends a long time, Qui-Gon. You're in love with him."

Qui-Gon stared his friend down, and was thankful he would not have the opportunity to reply, because the other Council members were now coming into the Chamber.

Nearly three hours later, the Council adjourned and Qui-Gon returned to his quarters. He barely had time to remove his robe when the door annunciator chimed. He knew who was on the other side; he could feel his presence as if it was his own.

"Obi-Wan. You followed me," he said calmly and stepped aside to let the hooded knight enter.

"I couldn't wait to see you again," Obi-Wan said pulling the down the hood to reveal his handsome features.

"Purposefully concealing yourself from and following another Jedi is an offense to the Order."

"But I did not conceal myself from you," the younger man pointed out.

That was true. Qui-Gon had felt his presence from the moment he had left the Council chambers, but had chosen not to acknowledge it.

"What do you want then?" the master asked, trying to keep an emotional distance.

"I want you, Master Jinn. I want to make love to you," Obi-Wan reached out his hand, the Force leading him in this.

"Is this just about sex, Knight Kenobi?" Qui-Gon asked as he gently repelled the advance.

Obi-Wan took note of the use of his honorific by the man who seemed so eager to call him by his given name. "No. This isn't just sex, Master," he said, still trying to understand the nature of the attraction himself.

"Then why is it every time we are alone there is a physical encounter between us?"

"I am drawn to you. The Force is telling me to join with you."

"Is it also telling you to betray your bondmate?"

The young man's eyes looked down. "I do not want to hurt him, but I don't feel I have a choice in this."

"There is always a choice, Knight."

Now Obi-Wan was growing impatient. In the three hours he had waited for Qui-Gon to be released from that blasted Council meeting, Obi-Wan had imagined all the things he wanted to do to him. All the places he longed to kiss him, all the positions he longed to take him in... And now he was being reminded of his bondmate. He ached inside both for his want of Qui-Gon and his guilt of betraying Aleki.

"If you want me to leave, I will go," Obi-Wan said, and then silently, // Please, don't tell me to leave.//

// I will never ask you to leave, Obi-Wan.//

The knight's eyes widened. "You heard my thoughts? How is that possible?"

"I would guess that we have begun to form a bond," Qui-Gon said.

"But how? I am already bonded with..."

"Perhaps we need to consider this attraction more carefully. Beyond the physical." Qui-Gon could see this suggestion was not acceptable to the young man his pheromones reeking off of him. "I would like you to stay awhile, Obi-Wan, but only to talk. I would like to learn more about you before we explore the physical nature of our relationship any further."

Obi-Wan sighed. It was just like a Jedi master to want to examine things completely before proceeding. And even though Obi-Wan was hornier than he'd been in a long time... even than while Aleki was gone... he was happy to just talk with Qui-Gon. Just being in the man's presence brought him great joy and peace. More than he had ever known possible.

The chrono marked the 18th hour and Obi-Wan was late for dinner. Aleki was sitting in a plush chair with his arms folded on his chest. He did not look happy.

"Am I that late?" Obi-Wan asked as he threw his robe on the couch.

"Where were you?" Aleki asked in a flat, simmering tone.

Obi-Wan hesitated. "I was speaking with Master Jinn. We discussed my mission to Tatooine last year..." Which was actually true.

"Oh, just save it, Obi-Wan. You don't expect me to believe that a member of the Council would actually want to talk to you for over four hours about some ridiculous little mission."

Obi-Wan's face was constricted with questions and fear.

"I know exactly where you've been all day. I had two Initiates follow you."

"Follow me!"

"Yes, you twit. You were so busy basking in the rays of Qui-Gon Jinn that you didn't even notice. Some Jedi you are!"

"Why were you having me followed?"

"Because I needed to expose you for what you are."

"And what is that?"

"A hateful, two-timing slug!" Aleki's arms were fiercely tight around his chest now, and tears were falling down his cheeks though he was fighting to hold them back. "I saw you last night. I saw you kiss him, Obi. How could you?"

Obi-Wan reeled from the discovery and moved closer to Aleki. He wanted desperately to hold his lover and tell him everything would be all right. But he had no more than taken two steps, when the younger man waved his hand and a candlestick went sailing straight for Obi-Wan's head. The knight ducked, and then realized more projectiles were coming his way... pillows, dishes, the beaded vase they had purchased in an Alderaanian market to celebrate their bonding.

"Aleki, stop! Release your anger to the Force."

Direction from Obi-Wan was the last thing he wanted now. But he did stop hurling objects at his lover long enough to reveal more of his hurt. "You were to forsake all others! And then I see you initiating that kiss! I can hardly blame that old rancor for wanting it. Who wouldn't want it from you? I don't think there's a Jedi in the Temple who hasn't imagined fucking Obi-Wan Kenobi!"

"You don't know what you're saying..."

"YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO TELL ME ANYTHING!" Aleki screamed. Then as if the sound of his own anger had terrified him, he quieted. "Why him, Obi? Why that old relic?"

"If I told you, you wouldn't believe me," Obi-Wan said almost in a whisper.

Aleki shook his head. "Get out. I don't want you here."

"But this is my home."

"You should've thought of that before you started fucking Jinn."

Obi-Wan opened his mouth to protest, but Aleki would not have heard a word. He picked up his robe and walked out into the main corridor. The sound of the door sliding closed behind him sent a chill through his body. He wanted to turn back and scream some sense into Aleki, but he knew he had a lot of his own thinking to do before he could expect his bondmate to listen.

Qui-Gon Jinn and Mace Windu were enjoying a leisurely walk in the gardens after dinner when they spotted Obi-Wan in the distance. He was meditating in Qui-Gon's favorite place the canopied alcove by the pond.

Mace looked to Qui-Gon. "You know you're not fooling me. There's something between you two."

"If there is, I wish you'd tell me what it is."

"What do you mean?"

"There is definitely an attraction, but I can not determine how or why. And it certainly can't continue since he's already bonded."

"Good thinking, Qui-Gon. Coming between a bonded pair could get you kicked off the Council."

"And that would be a bad thing?" Qui-Gon grinned mischievously.

Mace grinned back, and then bowed a goodnight before retreating to allow Qui-Gon to speak with the young knight. He sent a wave of comfort to his friend hoping he would resolve this attraction soon.

Qui-Gon approached Obi-Wan with the stealth only a Jedi master could produce under these circumstances. The young man had removed his robe and was sitting in lotus position on the mossy ground; his hands resting lightly on his legs, palms upward. Qui-Gon was entranced by the pleasant expression on the young man's face. His eyes were closed and there was a slight smile on his lips. He seemed very content in this meditation.

Suddenly, Obi-Wan opened his eyes and looked up at his observer.

"Master Jinn," he bowed slightly.

"What made you choose this place to meditate, Knight?"

"I felt your presence here. It comforted me. And in my meditation I imagined what my life would've been like had you taken me as your apprentice."

Qui-Gon rested his hands on his hips and tried to pretend that the idea had not crossed his mind as well. "Master Mulan was a good teacher to you, Obi-Wan."

"My Master was a fine negotiator and a kind man, and where his skills lacked he paired me with masters who could tutor me as in saber techniques."

"Your saber skills are admirable. Perhaps, if time permits, we could spar. I'm sure the experience would benefit me."

"Me? Teach you, Master?"

"Is it so hard to believe that a master could learn from a knight? Or even from an apprentice?"

Obi-Wan considered this. It did seem hard to believe. But if Qui-Gon thought it was true, then he would agree. "I would be honored to spar with you," he bowed slightly.

Obi-Wan brought himself out of his meditative posture and moved to sit on a large rock next to the pond. Qui-Gon joined him, but not too close.

"You were not in the dining hall for the evening meal," Qui-Gon said, gently.

Obi-Wan lowered his eyes. "Was... Aleki there?"

"Yes. That is what made your absence so profound."

"He does not wish to see me anymore," he began, and then looked into the blue depths of Qui-Gon's eyes. "He thinks we are..."

// Lovers.//

Obi-Wan closed his eyes, and allowed the mental speak to penetrate his mind. // More.// He sent the word back along their growing bond.

"More, Obi-Wan?"

// I want you in my mind,// Obi-Wan sent.

// Here?//

// Yes,// He sighed mentally, and then exhaled a moan. // Your voice inside me, completes me.//

// Your voice inside me is like a caress, a gentle touch,// Qui-Gon sent, becoming caught up in their attraction again.

By now, their eyes were locked on each other. Each absorbing the beauty of the other.

// Now that I have you in my mind, I want you in my body,// Obi-Wan said, offering himself. // I want to know all of you at once.//

// You want me to make love to you?// Qui-Gon asked, almost disbelieving what the young man was offering.

// Yes!//

Qui-Gon stood and held out his hand. "I don't care the consequences. I'm taking you back to my quarters."

Obi-Wan put his hand in the larger man's and stood. "More talking?"

Qui-Gon grinned. "Now who has the sense of humor?"

Back in the Jedi Master's quarters they stood face to face in the common area. All it would take would be a simple word or a look, and they would be in each other's arms. Knowing this, they hesitated, both painfully aware that once they did there would be no turning back and more than their lives would be effected.

Finally, Obi-Wan spoke. "I feel as if my life has been building to this moment... and yet I feel as if we were meant to be together all along."

"You mean, you should've been my apprentice?"

"Yes, Master Jinn. I know we never met, but it should've been."

"But then would we have ended up as lovers?"

Obi-Wan grinned deviously. "Oh, yes. You would've been my first... and last."

That was the trigger they needed. Their mouths were on each other in a fierce, hungry kiss. It was the oddest and most sensual feeling. Being drawn together almost forcibly and feeling complete somehow in each other's arms.

As their mouths explored each other's lips, face, and neck, their hands worked quickly to remove all the layers of Jedi clothing. Each piece falling to the floor. Soon they were half naked and the new sensation of bare skin sent fire through fingertips and lips. Qui-Gon pulled back to look at his young lover. He breathed deeply in the view of the passionate eyes that were raking over his body as well.

// More,// Obi-Wan sent.

Qui-Gon took Obi-Wan by the hand and led him into his bedroom. At the foot of the bed they stood and embraced and began to kiss again. Qui-Gon gently pushed Obi-Wan onto the bed so that he was sitting at its edge. He knelt before him and removed his boots and socks. He let his hands caress and massage the young man's feet, and Obi-Wan moaned with the pleasure. The erotic sound drove Qui-Gon to begin removing the rest of his own clothes. In the meantime, Obi-Wan had finished undressing and was laying sprawled on the bed.

"Force, you are beautiful," Qui-Gon said, as he got onto the bed and crawled his way up his lover's naked body.

Their lips met again, more gently this time. Lightly teasing, biting at each other. Now that they were fully alone and fully exposed to each other, their actions turned to the intense prospect of lovemaking.

"Are you sure, Obi-Wan?"

"Yes. I must have you."

Qui-Gon had stayed carefully separated from the young man, his body looming over him. Only their lips touching. And then, their erections met, bumping promisingly against each other, and Obi-Wan groaned with pleasure.

"Now. I need you now," Obi-Wan was saying, and wrapped his legs around Qui-Gon's.

"If we do this I will want you forever," Qui-Gon breathed into Obi-Wan's ear.

// Yes, yours forever,// Obi-Wan sent into his mind.

The older man shuddered with the feel of this young man in his mind and under his body. He let nearly his full weight drop onto him and kissed him again. The knight's lips were like a sweet life giving drink, and he a parched and weary traveler.

// Where have you been all my life, Obi-Wan?//

// Here, Qui-Gon. Here waiting.//

He moved his hands along the young man's body. Learning its softness, its musculature, its beauty. He was trembling slightly in awe of their imminent joining, and thanking the Force for bringing them together. For there was no other explanation for this attraction. He had never been so out of control and so in love with anyone in his fifty-five years. It was a little frightening, but excitingly so.

Obi-Wan allowed the weight of the larger man to encompass him. He had been with Aleki for so long that he had forgotten the tantalizing pleasure of new love. But it was more than that. Even when he and Aleki's bond had been new he had never felt this complete, this safe, this one with the Force. And the sensation of this large man on top of him was incredible. He liked feeling pinned, and a little overpowered by the other man's passion and size.

Now Qui-Gon had his large, callused hand on Obi-Wan's erection and was stroking it. Obi-Wan squirmed slightly under him and moaned greedily for more. This man could've pinched him purple and he would've thought it erotic, but to have him touching him so intimately was almost more than his senses could take.

"Please... inside me," Obi-Wan moaned aloud. Again, a new desire for him. With Aleki, he was almost always the penetrator. That seemed odd to him now, but in the past he had never questioned it.

The rhythm of Qui-Gon's hand slowed as he reached into a bedside drawer with the other for scented oil. Then his motion stopped completely to pour the oil onto his hands and rub them to warm the lubricant. He leaned back on his heels and paused to absorb the beauty of the young man who lay before him. Obi-Wan's eyes were half-closed in desire, and his skin glowed silvery from the Coruscant night and the sweet sheen of their lovemaking. He licked and chewed on his bottom lip in anticipation of Qui-Gon's next touch.

The older Jedi knew this joining would not be ordinary. In fact, he knew it would change his life. Over the years, he had been fortunate to experience love in its many incarnations. But never had he felt it command him in such a profound and soul-touching way. In this moment he realized that Obi-Wan was the other half of his soul, that part of him that had been missing all of his life. And this was something of a homecoming for them both.

Qui-Gon's hesitation at first delighted Obi-Wan, who writhed on the bed and spread his legs further, bucking his hips up, in invitation to his new lover. But as Qui-Gon's gaze grew deeper and lingered, he became concerned that the man was having second thoughts. That maybe the master Jedi had reconsidered this union.

Obi-Wan drew himself up on his elbows. Worry evident on his face. "What is it?"

Qui-Gon allowed a small grin to light his face. "You are so beautiful."

He could see tears forming in the older man's eyes and began to panic. He wanted this joining more than anything. Believed in its rightness. Longed to be with Qui-Gon forever. But if the master Jedi had second thoughts, it would crush him. Tear his soul clean out of his body.

"Please, love. You have my heart and mind, now take my body."

With that encouragement, Qui-Gon swallowed and leaned into Obi-Wan for a gentle kiss. "Beautiful," he whispered, and then his hands returned to Obi-Wan's body.

The young man lay back on the bed and arched into the long caress of hands covered in oil, smoothing over him. Those large, exploring hands finally settled on the knight's inner thighs, massaging them tenderly.

"It's been a long time," Qui-Gon admitted with a smile. It had been nearly three years since his last lover, and that relationship had been only a brief affair while on a mission.

For Obi-Wan it had not been very long at all. He had made love to Aleki less than 24 hours earlier. He tried to push down his growing guilt. Did he really know what he was doing here? Making love to a man he had just met. But it felt so good, so right. And he had never acted so impulsively before. He quickly reminded himself that this was not some childish lust.

// This is real. This is love,// he sent to Qui-Gon.

The older man's hands paused and his eyes connected with his lover's. // Yes, it is love,// and then, feeling a need to reassure the young man further he spoke aloud, "I love you, Obi-Wan."

Obi-Wan closed his eyes, and a tear fell down his cheek. He swallowed the wave of love and warmth that Qui-Gon was sending him. When he opened his eyes again he was shivering slightly under his lover's intense gaze. Obi-Wan smiled, serenely happy. "And I love you, Qui-Gon. Please remember that... no matter what happens."

Qui-Gon's brow tightened. That sounded a bit ominous, but they were on the verge of having the most incredible sex of their lives, and the Force was demanding their union. At this point, it would have taken two much stronger-willed Jedi to resist the urge to join their bodies and minds together.

Qui-Gon held himself up on his hands, keeping his full weight off the smaller man, making his lover reach off the bed for their lips to meet again and again. Their mouths sometimes barely touching as their hips thrust, rubbing their aching erections together. Finally, Qui-Gon leaned to one side and slid his hand down the younger man's chest, over his flat stomach, and to his inner thigh until it reached its mark. His finger rubbed gently at the opening and his young lover moaned. They looked into each other's eyes as his finger slid inside. Obi-Wan arched with the pleasure. The finger moved in and out, sending spasms of rapture through him, and soon it was joined by a second, and a third in preparation.

"Please..." he panted, rocking on the fingers. "I need your cock inside me, now..."

The fingers withdrew almost immediately. More oil. This time poured generously on Qui-Gon's erection. Obi-Wan looked hungrily at the hardened shaft, wavering between wanting to suck on it like a Corellian candy stick, and needing it thrusting inside him. The latter won out, but first he grabbed Qui-Gon's hand and pulled one of the fingers that had been inside him into his mouth. Sucking on it and wrapping his tongue around it. Qui-Gon shuddered at the display and then positioned himself between Obi-Wan's legs and pressed his sex to his lover's readied opening.

"Forever, Obi-Wan."

"Yes, forever."

And then with a gentle push forward, the crown of Qui-Gon's cock was inside. They both gasped at the new sensation, and then with slow, tiny thrusts in and out, the thick shaft drove infinitesimally deeper into the tight heat. Obi-Wan threw his head back on the pillow and let his legs fall open wider to allow further penetration for his lover's very large shaft. He couldn't remember ever taking anyone so large inside him before.

He squirmed forward under Qui-Gon, until his hands could firmly grasp the older man's buttocks. His fingers massaged and cupped the ass as his lover continued the journey to complete their joining. His breathing was heavy, and sweat began to bead off his stomach as his need to take Qui-Gon completely overwhelmed him.

"Yes," Obi-Wan moaned, and without warning, he gripped Qui-Gon's firm bottom and thrust it towards him, forcing his lover's cock completely inside him.

They each screamed out their pleasure, and Obi-Wan a little pain. But the satisfaction of being so completely filled by this man made the pain inconsequential.

There could be no hesitation in their lovemaking now. Their bodies were completely joined, and with a small delay to allow Obi-Wan to adjust to the size of the cock inside him, they began to move. At first gentle, exploratory thrusts, but soon faster, harder, deeper thrusts to satiate their desires. As Qui-Gon pounded into Obi-Wan, their bodies became sweat-slicked, increasing the speed and intensity of their lovemaking. Qui-Gon drove into the younger Jedi relentlessly, moving harder and faster as the young man's pleasure became more vocal.

"Yes, more... love you... inside me," Obi-Wan groaned out. His hands were moving over Qui-Gon's back, and finally, again, settled on the other man's ass, helping him to drive harder and deeper inside him.

Obi-Wan could feel his orgasm building rapidly, and wanted desperately for he and Qui-Gon to come together. "Yes... fuck me... come with me... NOW!" And then a possessive, raw scream came from the young man's throat as he wrapped his legs tightly around Qui-Gon, and his orgasm erupted a milli-second before his lover's.

Any Jedi in the adjoining quarters had their evening interrupted, when Qui-Gon joined his lover's pleasured scream. The animalistic sound reverberated through the room and beyond. They ground deeper, harder, and more slowly several times until they were both spent. Qui-Gon let his body fall onto Obi-Wan's. They lay entwined and joined until both their erections subsided and Qui-Gon withdrew easily from the other man.

Falling asleep in another's arms had never been more satisfying, and they drank of the pleasure for several hours before waking to Obi-Wan's growling stomach.

"I forgot I hadn't eaten," he said, a little embarrassed.

"Let me feed you," Qui-Gon smiled playfully.

He got up from the bed and, feeling his lover's eyes on him, turned to fully display himself. Obi-Wan breathed deeply at the sight of this magnificent man and the scent of their recent lovemaking.

"For a member of the Council you are in extraordinary shape."

"I've maintained my training as though I could be sent back into the field at any moment."

"It's paid off nicely," Obi-Wan grinned.

"Thank you. Now let me find you something to eat."

"Oh, you've got plenty for me to eat," the young knight grinned again, boldly raking his eyes over Qui-Gon's hardening penis.

Qui-Gon raised an eyebrow in playful protest, though his interest had been peaked. "Let's concentrate on food for a moment, shall we?" He found himself laughing silently at the young man's sexual hunger. He had never had a lover so much younger than himself, and he was looking forward to all it would offer.

In several minutes he returned with a platter of sliced fruit and cheeses. Obi-Wan was sitting up on the bed with his back leaning against the headboard and his body shamelessly exposed. Just the mere presence of Qui-Gon in the room sent a tendril of desire to his groin and he too began to harden.

Qui-Gon raised an eyebrow at his lover's eagerness and sat next to Obi-Wan with the platter conveniently between them. "I promise, after you eat this, you can have me for dessert," he found himself saying, a little to his own surprise.

The young knight's eyes lit up with desire. "Oh, I assure you, I'll finish both courses and then some."

Obi-Wan reached for some fruit, but Qui-Gon grabbed him by the wrist. "Please, allow me," he grinned.

He took the sweet fruit and raised it to the young man's lips. Obi-Wan let his tongue dart out to play with the fruit teasingly, and then let Qui-Gon drop it into his mouth. He chewed it with eyes closed, wanting to savor every sensation Qui-Gon brought to him.

"At this rate you won't be having dessert until tomorrow morning," Qui-Gon laughed.

Obi-Wan laughed as well. "Then you'll just have to help me."

The two proceeded to feed each other. When the last morsel was eaten Obi-Wan set the platter aside and leaned into Qui-Gon. "Nice appetizer, but now I want the main course." He kissed Qui-Gon playfully, longingly and then pushed him back onto the bed, laying on top of him.

"But I thought I was dessert," Qui-Gon joked back.

"Entree, dessert... you're everything," Obi-Wan growled, while moving his hands down the larger man's flank.

The heat was growing nicely between them again, and within minutes they were breathing heavily, grinding against each other's erections. Their desire was wonderfully endless. Each kiss, each touch, each caress deepening the bond they were forging.

Obi-Wan let his legs fall to either side of the man under him, and he sat up slightly, licking his way down to the engorged penis that was waiting for him. Qui-Gon shuddered as the knight's tongue licked away the liquid at the tip of his cock.

"Please... Obi-Wan, don't tease me."

The young man smiled and rubbed his cheek on the hardened shaft. "You want to fuck me again, don't you?"

"Any objection?"

"No. But I want to be on top this time," and with a long lick of the shaft, Obi-Wan sat himself on Qui-Gon's lap. The larger man's penis nestled happily underneath him.

Qui-Gon waited patiently. He would let Obi-Wan control this lovemaking. Not that he had totally controlled it the first time, but he had been on top and that did have its advantages.

Obi-Wan moved back a few inches, allowing their erections to stand and rub each other. He reached for the oil on the bed stand.

"You'll need to get more of this," he said looking with hungry eyes at the master Jedi.

"Oh, believe me, it's at the top of my shopping list."

And with an insatiable appetite, Obi-Wan poured the oil on his lover's cock, and stroked it firmly, coaxing Qui-Gon's erection to an even greater diameter.

"Force, you're a big man."

"Is that a complaint?"

"Oh, definitely not," he grinned, and ever so sensually moved forward and placed the waiting cock at his opening.

He bent over for one more kiss and then slowly, sat back, impaling himself on Qui-Gon's cock. "Yessss," he breathed out, and let his head fall back, the soft copper highlights of his hair caressing his shoulders.

Quickly he began to move up and down on the hardness, delighting in every sensation. The fullness of having Qui-Gon inside him, and the sexual hunger it gave him to withdraw almost completely. He never knew being penetrated could be so satisfying, and if it had been physically possible, he would have liked to stay joined in this way for days... weeks.

The intimacy they had created with their minds was now fulfilled by their bodies. And with each lovemaking, each moment together, each new and deeper thrust, they both could feel their bond growing brighter and stronger. And yet there was one impediment. As they moved in and on each other, their glistening, trembling bodies working together to create a mutually satisfying rhythm, Obi-Wan felt a tug in his mind. He shrugged it away like an annoying buzz in his ear and slid faster on Qui-Gon's cock. Concentrating on how much he loved this man and how it felt being so completely taken by him.

"So good," Qui-Gon moaned, thrusting his hips up harder, touching just the right spot inside his lover and sending a jolt of pleasure through him.

"Yes!" Obi-Wan cried out. "Qui-Gon, yes!" and he came, spurting his seed over their moving bodies.

Seeing and hearing his lover's orgasm, Qui-Gon came easily, thrusting up again and again, joining and heightening the pleasure. "Yes, Obi-Wan!"

Even as their orgasms began to fade, they still rocked and moved on each other, the sensation of their bodies joined creating the greatest physical pleasure either had ever experienced. And then, Obi-Wan felt that mental nudge again. Something or someone was pulling him out of this moment and away from Qui-Gon... toward... Aleki. There was a whispering sensation along that bond. A whisper that was growing more clear as the seconds passed, and the orgasm ended. The bond was sending strong feelings to him. Aleki was heartbroken.

Obi-Wan fell forward onto Qui-Gon, exhausted from their lovemaking, and shaking from the intrusion and pain of his other lover. He began to shiver with the feeling of Aleki's sobs along their bond.

Qui-Gon caressed Obi-Wan's back. "Are you all right?"

Obi-Wan did not respond in words, but Qui-Gon could feel his lover's tears splashing warmly on his shoulder. "You're crying. What's wrong?"

Obi-Wan wiped at the tears. "It's Aleki. He's crying."

Qui-Gon blinked. Of course, Obi-Wan was still strongly connected to Knight Runalt. Through their pairbond the young man had been unfortunately aware of their lovemaking.

"Do you want to go to him?" Qui-Gon asked hesitantly.

Obi-Wan wiped away more tears, and leaned up on his elbows to look at Qui-Gon. "No. He made it clear he doesn't want to see me."

"But he was angry when he said that."

Obi-Wan shook his head. "No. I won't leave you. Not now. Not ever."

Qui-Gon's heart was full with this reassurance, and yet he knew it would take more than Obi-Wan's own conviction to truly break the bond with Aleki. And if he truly desired to complete his bond with Qui-Gon, that is what he'd have to do.

Qui-Gon rolled Obi-Wan onto the bed and then into his arms. He caressed his lover's long sandy blond hair, and delighted at the warm highlights. He had so quickly fallen in love with this man. It was a bit unnerving, and yet so right. "If you were mine, I would always treasure you, Obi-Wan."

The younger man turned his head up to look into those fabulously blue eyes. "But I am yours. Somehow I've always been yours."

The master Jedi grinned warmly. "Now, surely you are exaggerating. We've only just met."

Obi-Wan pulled away and turned his body so that they were facing each other, sitting on the still warm bed. "I want to tell you something... about my search, my longing."

Qui-Gon nodded for Obi-Wan to continue.

"Since I was a very young Initiate, I dreamed a great knight would be my teacher."

"Of course, all children at the Temple have this dream."

Obi-Wan shook his head. "No... Master Mulan was not that knight. Please don't think me ungrateful. My master was a good man, but he was not my knight. When he asked me to be his apprentice I was twelve and already beginning to worry about being sent to the AgriCorps in another year. He seemed nice enough, so I agreed. We formed a strong training bond, but it was never more than that. He was a lonely man, and I think he worried that I would be lonely too. He knew I was incomplete."

"Incomplete?"

"Yes. A part of me was missing," Obi-Wan remembered how his master had become almost obsessed with the idea of helping him become complete, as if he felt personally responsible.

"Around my 19th year I became involved with Aleki." He stopped to check Qui-Gon's reaction. "We'd been friends since the creche, and as adolescents we were attracted to each other, and eventually became lovers." He stroked his hand over Qui-Gon's arm to soothe the sting of speaking of another in this way. "But it wasn't as you might think. We were young, physically attracted, and we had some fun together. That's all."

"When did it become more serious?"

"When Master Mulan discovered us in bed... I was 22. I'd managed to hide our relationship from him for three years. But once he knew, he became obsessed with the idea of Aleki and I bonding."

"Obsession is not a Jedi trait."

Obi-Wan exhaled. "It became one, at least for my master. But I argued against the bonding. I was still an apprentice and hadn't really considered bonding with anyone. In fact, after our affair had been discovered, Aleki and I stopped seeing each other."

He adjusted his legs on the bed and prepared for the end of the tale. "Two years later, when my master became seriously ill, we returned to the Temple to await his death, but also for me to take my trials. It was with great joy that Master Mulan witnessed my knighting, but his heart was heavy that I had yet to bond to anyone. He died thinking I would be alone and he was deeply saddened by this."

"I don't understand. Surely he didn't think you could ever be alone in the Order?"

"He was right in his feelings. I did feel very alone. The training bond was gone and I had no one else. And that's when Aleki came back into my life. He brought me out of my depression and comforted me. In my loneliness I bonded to him. He helped me out of that very dark time, and I accepted his offer to pairbond."

Bonding was a serious undertaking. All Jedi knew this. And yet, Qui-Gon could not help but think that Obi-Wan had made his decision to do so under the wrong circumstances.

"Unfortunately, when the bonding was completed, neither Aleki nor I were entirely happy."

"Not happy? This doesn't sound like any bonding I've heard of."

"Aleki had made it clear he was hoping for a lifebond. But once we bonded, and could not even speak telepathically, we both knew a lifebond would not be possible. But the pairbond did allow us to enjoy the support and love of the other, as it was meant to, and even feel each other's emotions in extreme situations."

"Like now," Qui-Gon said solemnly. This was a difficult conversation, but a necessary one.

"I know lifebonds are rare and can happen instantaneously, and I suppose that's what Aleki thought would happen. When it didn't he became depressed for a long time."

"And now things have become more complicated," Qui-Gon added.

"Wonderfully complicated, Qui-Gon. This won't be easy for Aleki, but I know in my heart and in the Force you and I were meant to be together. I sensed you before I even entered the Council chambers that day. There was a light pulling me toward you. When I walked in, my eyes immediately fell to the source of that light... you, Qui-Gon. You are my lifemate. You always have been."

"We should discuss this with the Healers in the morning," Qui-Gon said.

Obi-Wan nodded and let one tear fall down his cheek. "I don't want them to separate us."

"If this is what you truly want, Obi-Wan, as I do, then we will need the assistance of the Healers. I believe a lifebond is forming between us, but we will not be able to complete it until you have broken your pairbond with Aleki. Normally this is mutually acceptable between two knights who wish to go their separate ways, either to take an apprentice or just because the time is right to do so."

"Aleki will not agree to separating. I know how stubborn he can be... and just knowing that a lifebond is possible between you and me, but not with him, will eat him alive."

Qui-Gon sighed. "This is unfortunate, but I see no way around it. We are drawn by the Force to lifebond. It is something I have been seeking my entire life as well." He took Obi-Wan's hands in his. "When I saw you walk into the Council chambers, the ache that has surrounded my heart for so long was brushed away. I nearly sobbed at the vision of you."

Obi-Wan's eyes were pooling with tears.

"You were the most beautiful creature I had ever seen," Qui-Gon continued. "The Force light surrounding you soothed my eyes, my soul. It was as if you shone just for me."

"I was shining for you, Qui-Gon. The Force brought us together. And after a couple of false starts," referring to the two kisses, "we can finally form the bond that we have both been searching for."

"As much as I want that to be, you have Aleki to consider. We cannot be one until you resolve your bond to him."

Obi-Wan frowned. This was a very confusing and frightening time. He had finally found his lifemate, and yet he still had ties to another. A man he truly loved, but who did not complete him in the way he needed to be completed. As only Qui-Gon Jinn could.

The next morning as they lay sleeping and entwined in each other's warmth, they were awakened by the door chime. Whoever was on the other side was very insistent and pressed the chime a half dozen times until Qui-Gon reluctantly removed himself from Obi-Wan's embrace and rolled out of bed and into his Jedi robe.

The early morning visitor was Master Healer Liton.

"Good morning, Master Liton. You are more perceptive than I would've guessed," Qui-Gon mused, thinking how he and Obi-Wan had agreed to visit the Healers that day.

"I'm not sure what you're referring to, Master Jinn. I have come to retrieve you and Knight Kenobi," he said, a little shocked realizing Qui-Gon was completely naked under his robe.

"Yes, yes. We planned to visit you this morning, but after firstmeal, of course."

The master Healer tilted his head at the taller man. "Then you know that Knight Runalt has filed a complaint against you and is requesting that he and Knight Kenobi renew their pairbond."

Qui-Gon faltered slightly, but to the other master it appeared that he had just taken a step back. "No, we were not aware of this."

"This is very serious, Master Jinn. Please get dressed. I will wait to escort you to the Healers Dome."

Qui-Gon gestured for the other master to wait in his common room, and then retreated into the bedroom where Obi-Wan was already getting dressed.

"You heard?"

"No, but I could feel your reaction, and it wasn't good," Obi-Wan said as he fastened his belt.

"Aleki has filed a complaint, and he wishes to be reunited with you."

"Oh, Qui-Gon. I'm so sorry," Obi-Wan said and moved to take Qui-Gon in a deep embrace, his hands sliding under the Jedi's robe and around his bare skin. "This will all work out somehow. It has to. The Force..."

"Yes, I know. The Force," Qui-Gon said gently, but he was no longer confident in its wisdom.

At the Healers Dome, Qui-Gon Jinn was immediately separated from Obi-Wan Kenobi. It seemed it had already been decided that their joining was wrong. The master Jedi was tested and it was confirmed that he was beginning what would likely become a very strong lifebond with the knight, but all frowned on letting that bond form completely. He was sent back to his quarters and asked to remain there until further notice.

He stumbled about his quarters, looking for something to do. It could be hours before he received word of a final decision. And whose decision was it to make anyway? The Healers in their infinite wisdom? Aleki Runalt in his infinite pain? Obi-Wan Kenobi in his infinite beauty?

No. As far as he was concerned, the matter had already been decided before he ever met Obi-Wan Kenobi. The Force had made that very clear to both of them. So why couldn't anyone else see that? Because convention and rules stood in the way. Even the Jedi in all their compassion could not overcome tradition. So long as Knight Runalt wanted the bond with Knight Kenobi, there would be no separating them. The first bond pre-empted any new bond that was beginning to form. Though it could be forcibly removed, the Healers would never consent.

So he puttered. Straightened books on a shelf. Checked his mail. And then his undoing came when he walked into his bedroom searching for a datapad. He stopped cold in his tracks. The room smelled of Obi-Wan. Smelled of their lovemaking. The bed was disheveled and reeked of the young man's musk.

Qui-Gon broke down. He dropped to his knees and began to cry, his face in his hands. He mourned the incomplete lifebond, the passion he had shared with Ob i-Wan, and the empty days ahead. For as sure as he was a master Jedi, he knew the outcome of this scenario. Obi-Wan and Aleki would meet with the Healers and after much testing,counseling, and meditation all would agree that the two knights should remain together.

Obi-Wan was afraid. It was an awkward, childish feeling for a grown man who was safe in the Jedi Temple, but somehow he knew that for the first time in his life the Jedi were not here to help him. They wanted to change him. Rip out a part of him that was beautiful and had recently begun to grow. They wanted to sever the lifebond which was forming between him and Qui-Gon Jinn.

"It will be best to remove this ill-formed bond before it interferes further in your life," the healer spoke to him as he lay restrained on the examining table.

"You must be mad. The bond I have with Master Jinn is the most wonderful thing that's ever happened to me. I refuse to allow for it to be broken," Obi-Wan protested loudly, so much so that other healers came into the room to see what was happening and to calm him.

"Knight Runalt has rightfully filed a complaint. Your association with Master Jinn must be terminated," another healer was telling him.

"I can't believe you're saying this. Let me speak with Aleki."

"Knight Runalt has asked that your pairbond be renewed. That will require the ill-formed lifebond to be severed."

"Stop saying that it's ill-formed like it's a disease," Obi-Wan was struggling now against the restraints. "Don't I have any rights here?"

"Rights you have, of course," came the ever-recognizable syntax of Master Yoda.

Obi-Wan immediately relaxed, knowing that the old Jedi master's wisdom and sense of justice would surely save him.

"Why restrained is Knight Kenobi?" the small, green Master asked.

"He was combative and resisting our efforts to calm him," Master Liton answered as he returned to the room.

"How calm should I be when you're trying to rape my mind of any connection to the man I would be lifebonded to?"

"Lifebond you are forming with Qui-Gon, hmm?"

"Yes, Master."

"Sensed it I did when first you met."

"That's what I've been trying to tell them. The Force has guided us to be together."

"True this may be, but bonded you are to Knight Runalt," Yoda said, firmly.

"No, Master. I must be with Qui-Gon," Obi-Wan's eyes were swelling with tears again. "Please let me speak with Aleki. I'm sure he will understand."

"Speak with Knight Runalt you may, but understand he will not," Yoda gestured for the restraints to be removed, and Obi-Wan shot up into a sitting position.

"Thank you, Master," he bowed to Yoda. "Now where may I find Aleki?"

"He is in an adjacent room. You may speak to him, but supervised," Master Liton informed.

The young knight shook his head. This situation was growing more and more ridiculous.

He was shown into the room where Aleki waited quietly. It was the first they had seen each other since their fight the day before. Aleki looked very tired, and his eyes were swollen from hours of crying. His body was tight, and he turned his face away from Obi-Wan, the tears beginning to fall once again.

Obi-Wan reeled with the pain emitting from his bondmate. Instinctively he fell to his knees at Aleki's feet. He wanted nothing more than for this horrible situation to be over and Aleki's pain to be gone.

"I... I'm sorry I've caused you pain," Obi-Wan spoke softly. He didn't dare reach out to touch his bondmate. "This isn't something I planned. It was Force-driven."

Aleki's face turned sharply to him, and his eyes raked over the love bites visible on his bondmates throat. "Can't even take responsibility for your own actions can you, Obi?" Aleki snorted. "The Force is a guide, not an absolute."

"And I chose to listen to its guidance," Obi-Wan said.

"So, what's done is done? But you cannot complete what you've started with Jinn unless we sever our bond, and that is something I am not willing to do," Aleki's voice was clear, almost proud, and he jutted his chin out, defying Obi-Wan to overcome that obstacle.

"I'm asking you to let me complete that lifebond with Master Jinn. I know it's painful for you..."

"Do you? Do you have any idea?" Aleki was shaking his head and blinking back the tears. "You didn't seem too concerned about my pain last night when you were fucking him."

Aleki's fists were curled, his knuckles white. The healer stood close by, but did not interfere. Finally, with some effort, he calmed himself enough to speak again. "I worked too hard to catch you to let you get away from me now. We're a good match. You've said that many times, and the Council agrees."

"Yes, we were a good match," Obi-Wan purposefully placed their relationship in the past tense to encourage this separation. "We gave each other a lot of support and we loved each other. You know that I'll always love you, Aleki, don't you?"

The other knight shuddered. "Yes, I believe that you will. But I want you in my arms, in my life, not loving me from a distance like some museum object."

"I wish I still could. But I'd only be thinking of him. It wouldn't be fair to any of us," Obi-Wan said sadly.

"And it would be fair for me to give up what we've built together? Our life as pairbonded mates? What of that?"

"It's not unusual for pairbonds to separate. You know that."

"I see you've done your research," Aleki retorted sharply. "I don't care what you say or do, I won't sever our bond. Do what you must, Obi-Wan--you always do--but know that our bond is staying intact."

It was useless to continue this conversation. Aleki had made up his mind. He still loved Obi-Wan and wanted them to be together. But if it was truly love, wouldn't Aleki want his lover to be happy? A lifebond was a rare and treasured thing among the Jedi, with less than two percent ever experiencing it. Could he deny his love the fulfillment he had always wanted for himself?

The decision now fell to Obi-Wan. Be with Aleki exclusively and let his growing bond with Qui-Gon die a slow death of inattention. Or continue to see Qui-Gon and hurt Aleki through the emotional link their bond created.

It was an impossible decision. So he chose to deny himself completely. "I will put in a request for a mission immediately. I think it'll be best for everyone," he said, then rose from the floor and left the room.

Six months was a long time to be without Obi-Wan. For Aleki and for Qui-Gon. Neither had received any direct messages from the knight, but had heard through reports to the Council of his progress. One mission had led to two more, until finally it seemed he would never return to Coruscant.

By the second month of absence, Aleki accepted his own mission. He had remained on Coruscant in the hopes that Obi-Wan would return or try to contact him, but it had become increasingly hard to stay in their shared quarters and to occasionally bump into Master Jinn. A mission would provide the same empty solace that Obi-Wan had sought, and perhaps in time they could reunite properly.

Obi-Wan's absence was especially hard on Qui-Gon, who was bound by duty to remain at the Temple. There were reminders of his young lover everywhere. In the training hall he could still see Obi-Wan's graceful form in a saber duel, in the garden Obi-Wan's Force signature still lingered, and in his bedroom... that was the most difficult place of all. He had taken to sleeping on his couch in the common room, to keep the ghosts of their lovemaking at bay.

Qui-Gon understood Obi-Wan's decision to leave. If they couldn't be together fully, then Obi-Wan would not hurt Aleki further by maintaining their pairbond and seeing Qui-Gon behind his bondmate's back. The knight's words came back to him continually. "I love you. Please remember that... no matter what happens."

If only that were true. It was so little to hang on to, and Qui-Gon was beginning to have doubts. The few times the knight had reported to the Council via hologram, he had looked detached and unfeeling. His eyes never wandered to scan the Council chambers for Qui-Gon, always looking straight ahead, directing his gaze and his words to no one in particular... but certainly not to Qui-Gon.

How could something born out of love and in the Force become so cold, and so wrong? It was a question that Qui-Gon had exhausted himself meditating on. But no answer had been forthcoming. And then finally word came that Knight Kenobi was returning to Coruscant. For whatever reason, he had not been assigned another mission after his current mission had been successfully completed. Qui-Gon suspected a certain ancient Jedi master had something to do with that, but he couldn't be entirely sure.

Obi-Wan's next briefing was in person. He, himself, in front of the Jedi Council. His stomach was in knots and the feelings he had so ruthlessly pushed aside were boiling inside of him. When he had left Coruscant six months earlier, he had done so without speaking to Qui-Gon. He wouldn't have had the strength to leave if he saw his love again, so he sent him a brief communique explaining his actions. It was cowardly and wrong to do this to Qui-Gon, but there was no other way.

The communique had read simply: **Qui-Gon, you deserve to be told this in person, but I could not bring myself to do that. I have accepted a mission that will take me away from Coruscant for several months. I love you. I will always love you. Obi-Wan.**

It had grieved Obi-Wan to send that message, but it had nearly destroyed Qui-Gon to receive it. He had raced to the landing platform to intercept Obi-Wan, but it had been too late. The knight had deftly programmed the message to be sent an hour after his transport left. And now, six months later, he was back, and standing before him, before the entire Council.

Obi-Wan looked thinner, and his eyes were circled in dark shadows of fatigue and inner turmoil. The last time he had been in this chamber, he was on his knees pleasuring the man who would be his lifemate.

Qui-Gon's heart bled for him, and he desperately wanted to take the young man into his arms, but it was not to be. The decision had been made by Obi-Wan to simply separate himself from both of his lovers. Under the circumstances, it was probably the most judicious decision. It made no one the victor, and even saved Qui-Gon from a severe reprimand by the Council for his actions.

"Knight Kenobi, welcome," Master Yoda greeted.

"Masters," Obi-Wan said and bowed deeply. He was tired, so tired, and would have gladly skipped this meeting to find his new quarters and sleep for the next three days.

"You have been away from Coruscant for two quarters. It is good to have you home," Master Kloon added.

Obi-Wan bowed to the master, and then began his report. He had been entangled in a vicious war of succession near the outer rim. It was a situation the Council was aware of and had sent a team of Jedi to support him in, but this was the first full report they had heard. It took nearly two hours for the knight to relay all the details of the conflict, which though resolved, he felt could erupt into war again.

He was even more exhausted by the time he had finished his report, and was glad to finally be excused. He hadn't gotten more than fifty meters from the Council chambers when he was confronted by Qui-Gon. This meeting had been expected, but dreaded, because he was too tired and disillusioned to deal with his broken lover.

"Master Jinn," Obi-Wan spoke politely, if not a little curtly.

Qui-Gon blinked at the knight's tone. Was this the same young man who had vowed to always love him? "Knight Kenobi. It's been a long time."

Obi-Wan gave a low chuckle. "I seem to remember you saying that to me one other time..." His tired mind flashed on Qui-Gon, magnificently naked and aroused, kneeling before him in their lovemaking. He sobbed aloud at the memory.

"Are you all right, Obi-Wan?"

"No, I'm not all right," he answered, with more edge than before.

"Perhaps you should speak with the Healers."

"Ha! That's what got me into this mess," he turned abruptly and began to walk away from Qui-Gon.

"Obi-Wan, please."

The young man stopped. Tears were stinging at the corners of his eyes, and he felt himself faltering. He loved this man with every cell of his body, but it had to stop. The pain had to stop. // Please, go away.//

Qui-Gon was surprised by the sent command. Their bond had been left dormant for six months, and yet they could still communicate this way. // Obi-Wan, I love you. That hasn't changed. It won't change.//

He turned a fierce gaze to Qui-Gon. His eyes were nearly red with animosity. "It doesn't matter. Don't you get it? We can't be together. My master was right. He knew I'd be alone, just like him."

"But there has to be a way. The Force would never bring two people together..."

"The Force is only a guide. We chose wrong, Qui-Gon. It was wrong. We were wrong. Look where it has led. Do you honestly think this is what the Force had in mind?"

He turned with a whirl of his robe and headed down the hallway to his new quarters.

Go on to the next part...