With one quick comm call, Qui-Gon was able to secure a small training room not far from their quarters. Already dressed in workout clothes, they headed hand in hand towards the room. The hallways were sparsely occupied and they had almost made it to the door when a familiar form approached them.

"So you two are finally surfacing for air. Have you forgotten how to use the comm, Qui-Gon?" the sarcastic voice asked.

"Good to see you too, Elijah," Qui-Gon replied with a smile. "I've been rather busy."

Elijah could feel the traces of sexual energy surrounding the Force signatures of the two men and couldn't resist teasing his friend. "I'm sure your enticing bondmate had been keeping you pleasantly occupied." With a quick glance at Obi-Wan, he added. "I'm surprised you're even able to walk by this point, old man."

"I am too when I really think about it," Qui-Gon teased in return. "Though I did have plenty of time to build my stamina."

Obi-Wan watched silently as the banter between the two friends continued for a few more minutes. When it ended, he went to one knee and bowed deeply to his Master's friend. "I owe you an apology, Master Santee, and a debt of gratitude."

Elijah bowed his head in acknowledgement and motioned the younger man to his feet. "Yes, Mace told me that you approached your Master after overhearing my conversation with him." He locked his gaze with the padawan's and said seriously. "You are a very lucky young man, Obi-Wan. You have the heart of a very special man. Cherish Qui-Gon and don't ever give him cause to regret his decision."

Listening to the warning that was so similar to the one he had heard from Mace, Obi-Wan fought the urge to smile. Instead he returned the serious gaze and said. "My commitment to Qui-Gon is stronger than ever, Master Santee. I will do nothing that could cause him pain or threaten his status or my Knighthood."

Qui-Gon interrupted the serious conversation with a hand to Elijah's shoulder. "Have you found out how long will you be in Temple?"

"I could be here for a while," Elijah replied with a smile. Seeing his friend's confusion, he explained. "I have asked to be taken off the mission roster for a while. I'm considering taking another padawan."

"That's great but why didn't you say anything the other night?" Qui-Gon asked.

"I hadn't decided for sure at that point and you did have something, or should I say someone, else on your mind," Elijah said. "Though seeing you and Obi-Wan together helped me make my decision. After almost five years on the Rim, I'm tired of being alone. I have missed the interaction with other Jedi and more than that I find that I miss the challenge of teaching a young and inquiring padawan. If you're still here, maybe you can attend the exhibitions with me."

"We'll be on Coruscant for at least three tens, Elijah, and I would be happy to go with you," Qui-Gon replied. "Though Obi-Wan is much more familiar with the initiates and would probably be of greater assistance."

"The exhibitions don't start until the next ten so we can talk about it later," Elijah responded. "You look like you're dressed to workout so I'll be off. I'll contact you in a few days."

Qui-Gon waved as his friend walked away then palmed open the door to the training room. Moving to the center of the floor, he and Obi-Wan began the movements of the first kata, using the basic routine as a warm up. They moved easily through a series of katas ending with a highly advanced pair form. After a while, they switched from katas to hand to hand combat and by the time Qui-Gon had pinned his apprentice for the eighth time, they had been in the training room for almost three hours. Their arousal had increased with the closer contact and he could feel the hard cock pressing against his hip. Looking down at the younger man immobilized beneath him, he smiled. "I was going to suggest having late-meal in the dining hall but I no longer think that's a good idea. He shifted and rocked his groin into Obi-Wan's and heard the low moan escape from his padawan.

"Keep that up and we won't make it back to our quarters," Obi-Wan said huskily.

"I'm too old to make love on this hard wooden floor, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon responded.

"Against the wall would be fine with me," Obi-Wan returned with a smirk.

Qui-Gon fought a surge of arousal at the mental picture of Obi-Wan leaning against the wall as he thrust into him. But the small part of his mind that was still able to process thought knew that this wasn't the proper place for them to give into their passions. Rolling off the sweaty body, he struggled to his feet and pulled his apprentice to his. "Back to our quarters, my own."

Obi-Wan tightened his grip of the hand that had pulled him up and leaned in closer to his lover. "Well, there are numerous walls in our quarters if you want to indulge in that fantasy, my Master," he whispered fighting his own wave of lust.

Desire and lust shone openly in the two men's faces as they left the training room and headed back to their quarters. Replaying the fantasy image within the bond, they moved as quickly as their painfully aroused bodies would allow. Luck or the Force was with them, as they did not meet anyone along the way.

When the door slid closed behind them, Qui-Gon pressed his padawan against the nearest wall. He retained his senses long enough to engage the shield then began to devour the younger man's mouth. Hands pulled at clothing and they separated only long enough to pull sweaty training tunics over their heads. Lips meshed again as waistband ties were undone and leggings were pushed down until they bunched at their boot tops. They briefly considering just leaving their boots and leggings on but both realized that it would be too cumbersome. Moving as quickly as possible, they pulled apart to unbuckle and toe off boots and strip damp leggings from their bodies.

They eyed each other hungrily for a moment before diving back in to devour each other's mouths. With a flick of his hand, Obi-Wan gathered a small bottle of massage oil from the table by his Master's chair. Pulling back from that wonderful mouth, he pushed the older man back two steps. He pressed the bottle into Qui-Gon's hand then turned to face the wall, spreading his legs into a wide stance and resting his hands, palms down, against the wall.

Qui-Gon's cock hardened even more as he took in the erotic sight of his young bondmate. As inviting as the sensual body was, he needed to be certain that Obi-Wan was not doing this just to fulfill his fantasy. "Are you sure you want it like this, love?"

Obi-Wan allowed the full strength of his desire and need to flow into his Master and pulled a large hand to his steadily leaking penis. "Gods, yes, Qui-Gon, " he growled. "Take me, now."

Pouring oil on his fingers, Qui-Gon pressed them into his lover's body and coated the velvet flesh of his passage. When he withdrew them for more oil, Obi-Wan reached for his hand.

"Enough, already. Inside me, now," Obi-Wan panted.

After taking a few seconds to coat his throbbing penis, Qui-Gon guided the head to Obi-Wan's anus.

Not waiting for Qui-Gon to move, Obi-Wan pushed back and impaled himself on the large shaft. He rocked his hips forward until just the head was contained within him then pressed back again. He was moaning almost continuously by the time his Master's large hands grabbed his hips and increased the rhythm.

The knowledge that they were making love like this and the velvet heat that surrounded his cock was pushing Qui-Gon rapidly to the precipice. Releasing one hip, he reached for his lover's penis and stroked hard.

The touch of his Master's hand around him was more than he could stand. With a scream that may have been his bondmate's name, Obi-Wan's climax overtook him and streams of thick fluid pulsed onto his stomach and Qui-Gon's hand. Even as his body shuddered, he felt his lover's release flow into his body and tightened his muscles around the pulsing shaft. He supported his shaking body with his hands as he fought to remain standing through his partner's release. Only when he felt the large body lean against his back, did he allow himself to collapse to the floor and bring his bondmate with him.

As they rolled to the floor, his spent penis slipped from his lover's body and Qui-Gon pulled the younger man tightly against his chest. The tremors he felt in his lover's legs and arms were mirrors of his own and he ran his palms along the sleek form in an attempt to quell them. After a few minutes, he was finally able to speak. "Obi-Wan?" The soft-spoken word relayed all the older man's concern.

"That was incredible," Obi-Wan groaned. "Do you have any other fantasies you would like to bring to life?" The throaty laughter that escaped from his normally controlled Master warmed his heart.

"You have too much faith in my stamina, Padawan," Qui-Gon replied once his laughter was under control. "I'll be lucky if I can get up from the floor."

"You're nothing if not resilient, my Master," the younger man replied with a smirk. "I'll allow you a few hours of rest to rebuild your strength." Obi-Wan pulled out of the strong arms and maneuvered himself to his feet. Reaching a hand to Qui-Gon, he added. "Let's adjourn this to our bed so you can really rest."

Rising first to his knees then gingerly to his feet, Qui-Gon countered the tremors in his legs by steadying himself with an arm around Obi-Wan's waist. Not even bothering with the clothing strewn around the floor, they moved quickly into their bedroom and settled onto the bed. Grabbing the towel from earlier from the table, he wiped his hand then cleaned the semen from his lover's stomach. That completed, he nestled the younger man against him, kissed the spiky hair and allowed sleep to come to his exhausted body.

Obi-Wan smiled against the warm skin of his Master's chest and decided to indulge one of in his favorite fantasies. Shifting so that his ear rested against the center, he snuggled into the large body and drifted to sleep listening to sound of the steadily beating heart.

When Obi-Wan woke, the moons had risen over Coruscant and weak light was streaming in through the windows. His stomach growled to remind him of its neglect and the sound echoed in the quiet room. He attempted to quiet the grumbling so as not to wake his still dozing Master but his body had other ideas.

"Why don't you get up and get yourself some food, Padawan?" Qui-Gon said groggily.

When Obi-Wan glanced over to look at the man beside him, Qui-Gon's face was totally obscured by the heavy fall of chestnut hair. Pushing it back enough to expose a bearded cheek, he leaned forward and kissed it gently. "Would you like anything, Master, or would you rather just sleep?"

"Something light and some tea would be nice. Thank you, Padawan," Qui-Gon replied as he opened his eyes. He watched as Obi-Wan rose from the bed and left the room. He got up, pulled on a pair of leggings, and headed into his apprentice's room to grab a pair for him. When he returned, he slid open the transparisteel door to the balcony and leaned against the frame. He was lost in the sights and sounds of the evening's traffic when he heard Obi-Wan enter. "Would you like to have our meal out here?" he called as he held out the leggings in his hand.

"That would be nice," Obi-Wan replied. He slid the tray onto the table right outside the door and took the leggings from his Master. He put them on quickly and dropped into the heavy wooden chair across from Qui-Gon.

The two men ate their meal in comfortable silence, looking out into the Coruscant night and lost in their own thoughts. After refilling his tea mug, Qui-Gon leaned back in his seat and looked over at his apprentice. "Did you feel any discomfort while you were in the kitchen, Obi-Wan?"

"None at all, Master. I guess that means the bond is stabilizing further," Obi-Wan said with a touch of regret. Noting the raised eyebrow looking back at him, he explained. "I thought it would take a little longer. I suppose I was selfishly hoping for a couple more days of having you all to myself before we had to return to reality."

"We will return to reality slowly, Obi-Wan, and we'll have plenty of time alone. You can count on it," Qui-Gon reassured with a half smile. "Let's get these things cleaned up. I seem to be feeling a strong desire to cuddle with my bondmate."

Obi-Wan rose from his chair and quickly gathered everything onto the tray. "Never let it be said that I was not immediately available to fulfill my bondmate's every desire." He dropped a kiss to the crooked nose and smiled. "'Let me take care of this. I'll join you in bed in a minute."

The sight that greeted Obi-Wan when he returned to the room was endearing. Leggings abandoned, Qui-Gon was leaning against the headboard, attempting to untangle his heavy mane of hair with his fingers. Gathering the familiar wooden brush and a leather tie from the refresher, he pulled off his leggings and moved to kneel on the bed behind the older man. "Let me do that for you, Master," he said softly. When Qui-Gon began to protest, he silenced him with a finger to his lips. "It's no bother. You know I've always enjoyed doing things like this for you and now it takes on a whole new meaning -- pampering my lover."

"Thank you, love," Qui-Gon said softly as he shifted so that his back was against Obi-Wan's thighs. With the first stroke of the brush, he could feel his body relaxing. His hair was being carefully separated, each section brushed until each strand of hair was smooth. At one point, the brush was discarded and fingertips gently massaged his scalp. He was so relaxed by the time the brush returned and his hair was sectioned and braided that he was swaying slightly.

Tying the leather tie to the bottom of the thick brown plait, Obi-Wan chuckled. "You're almost asleep sitting up, Master. Why don't you lie down before you fall over." He placed the brush onto the table and joined Qui-Gon as he slid down onto the mattress. He covered his lover's mouth and began a leisurely exploration with lips and tongue. His motions were copied at first and they took turns basking in the taste and feel of each other's mouths. After a short time, the tongue against his became less active and the lips pressed to his were almost passive. He pulled back to take in eyes tightly closed and facial features relaxed in the beginnings of sleep. With a final light kiss to those soft lips, he gathered the large body into his arms and snuggled it against him. "Looks like you'll have to be happy with me cuddling you. Sleep well, my love." He basked in the feel of his bondmate in his arms until he fell asleep as well.

Confusion filled his mind as the light streaming into the room brought Qui-Gon to wakefulness and he forced his eyes opened. He remembered that Obi-Wan had brushed and braided his hair after they had dinner the previous evening. When he had finished, they had laid down on the bed, sharing slow and leisurely kisses. Obi-Wan's lips pressed against his and his tongue exploring his mouth was the last thing he remembered.

Still trying to puzzle through his memories, Qui-Gon allowed his eyes to roam over the lithe body lying beside him. Obi-Wan was sprawled across the bed on his stomach, with an arm tossed over his chest and one leg tangled between his. The sheet covered his free leg while the rest of his lover's body was totally exposed. His eyes traveled from the nape of his padawan's neck, down the curve of his spine and onto the darkened crease between those inviting cheeks. He could see the soft skin of the scrotum hanging between the spread legs and he longed to run his tongue over the path that his eyes had just taken. The sleepy but still vibrant presence of Obi-Wan pulsed in his mind and his shifted his attention inward to bask in it. When the younger man moaned and shifted slightly, he realized that he had transmitted his desires over the link. Pulling back his awareness, he sent a calming pulse to Obi-Wan and felt him drift back into a deeper sleep.

Qui-Gon rose carefully from the bed and headed into the refresher. His mind was full of thoughts, plans and questions as he entered the shower to prepare for his day. Their carefully ordered life had been thrown into chaos from the moment Obi-Wan had approached him in the club. Although he would be eternally grateful for his padawan's stubbornness and hoped that the Force would allow them many years to enjoy this new facet of their relationship, they also had responsibilities. He and Obi-Wan were Jedi above all else and their commitment to the Force and the Order must not be neglected in favor of their personal lives. During a few quiet moments since they had consummated the bond, he had briefly imagined a life where they could be totally focused on each other. But as tempting as that might be, they would not be the same people if they ignored their responsibilities.

Donning his full uniform for the first time in almost two days, Qui-Gon moved quietly into the common room and pulled out his meditation mat. Settling comfortably on his knees, he opened himself fully to the currents of the Living Force. Bringing his concerns to the forefront of his mind, he sank into a light trance, depending, as always, that the Force would show him the proper path for them to follow.

When Qui-Gon surfaced from his meditations two hours later, the sound of the shower running told him Obi-Wan was now awake as well. He stored his mat and walked to the kitchen, setting about to prepare the morning meal. He was cutting a cioca melon when he saw his apprentice poking his head out from his room. "You have time to dress, Padawan. The grains still need to cook a few more minutes."

"Yes, Master,'" Obi-Wan replied. Qui-Gon's attire told him more than words ever could that their lazy, non-structured time had come to an end. He walked reluctantly to his closet and gathered the required clothing. He was fully dressed in a matter of minutes and was attaching his saber to his belt as he entered the kitchen. He sat in his chair and added cream and sweetener to the steaming bowl that his Master placed before him. "I assume we are planning on leaving our quarters," he said with a smile. He added fruit to his bowl of grains and began eating.

"I see that all those years of detail observation training paid off," Qui-Gon replied impassively. He smiled as he continued. "We need to measure our separation factor and I would like to set up a meeting with Depa and Ni-Dor. I also think we should take at least one meal today in the dining hall." He dipped into his own bowl as he waited for his apprentice to reply.

"Together in no-man's land or separately with our peers?" Obi-Wan questioned.

"Separately, if we can handle it," Qui-Gon responded between bites. "The distance between the dining areas is only slightly more that our quarters and I would like to see if the presence of a large number of Force sensitives has any affect." He took Obi-Wan's hand and smiled wryly. "And I assume your friends are very impatient to learn the details of the past few days."

"Master, I would never..." Obi-Wan said in mock affront. "But we both know that won't stop them from asking. Plus the smile that's pasted on my face should tell them everything they need to know. And if vague answers and wistful looks make them a bit envious, that's okay too," he added with a mischievous grin.

"Gloating is not a very Jedi-like trait, Padawan," Qui-Gon admonished gently.

"That's true but I don't think indulging for one day will lead me to the Dark Side, Master," Obi-Wan replied with a smile. "I will do the extra meditations on the evils of pride and the need for humility, tomorrow. It will be worth it." He got up to place his empty dishes in the washing unit.

Qui-Gon swatted his padawan's retreating backside as he left the table. "If only those who think you're such a perfect padawan could see you now, brat. They have no idea what I put up with."

"There are advantages to having a Master who is considered a maverick and a renegade," Obi-Wan teased. "Makes my minor indiscretions almost invisible."

Qui-Gon rose from his place and stalked menacingly towards his apprentice. "Maybe I will need to add more than a few extra meditations to cure this new insolence, Padawan." His face only inches away from Obi-Wan's, he lost his bid to keep a stern expression when the younger man ran his tongue over his lips. He closed the distance and allowed them to indulge in a few lingering kisses before pulling back.

Obi-Wan placed a hand behind his Master's neck and pulled the man closer. "More of this will help to curb my insolence, I'm sure," he whispered against those soft lips before covering them with his own.

"As if I could get you to comply so easily or so pleasantly," Qui-Gon retorted as he broke the kiss. "Now clean up from breakfast and I'll attempt to contact Depa." He ignored Obi-Wan's disappointed sigh and headed to the comm unit.

By the time Obi-Wan finished, Qui-Gon was seated in his chair looking at a datapad. "So what's our plan, Master?" He asked as he sat cross-legged at the older man's feet.

"Depa was able to make time to meet with us at 1530," Qui-Gon began. "We will be meeting in her office and Ni-Dor hopes to be there as well. The biggest issue we face right now is figuring out whether we can separate for you to attend your classes tomorrow." He reached down and wrapped Obi-Wan's braid around his fingers. "We should probably start by measuring the distance between our quarters and your classrooms. Then we need check to see if we can handle that distance for the length of your classes."

"My astro-physics and cultural diplomacy classes are both in the level three classrooms which are not that far away but my Caamasi philosophy and ethics class is in the furthest corner of level one," Obi-Wan explained thoughtfully. "Missing that class may create a problem though. My debate team is scheduled for our second round tomorrow and my teammates will be at a distinct disadvantage if I'm not there."

"The library is near there so I could spend some time there while you're in class," Qui-Gon said. "Though I haven't witnessed an ethics debate in quite some time so maybe I could just observe from the back of the room. I'm sure Master A'Kla wouldn't mind."

"Master, you have more important things to do than waste time listening to a boring Senior Padawan debate, or sitting in the library," Obi-Wan said vehemently.

"It's hard enough to fit your classes in between missions so we will do whatever is necessary so that you can attend," Qui-Gon countered. "I'm sure your debate would be interesting or I could amuse myself rereading my old essays and poetry in the library archives," he added with a smile.

"Poetry, Master?" Obi-Wan returned in disbelief. "You have poetry that was good enough to be published and you never bother to share that fact. Even when I was on the verge of a mental breakdown during my two required poetry classes," he snorted.

"You would have found out if you had taken the third level poetry class, Padawan," Qui-Gon said with a smile. "Two of my poems are required reading in that class. Shall we head out?" he said, smoothly changing the subject as he rose from his chair and went to get his robe.

Obi-Wan jumped up and headed into his room to grab his pedometer and robe. Qui-Gon was standing in the open doorway when he returned. He moved to the older man's side and whispered, "What other interesting secrets have you hidden from me, my Master?"

"You'll just have to practice your investigative skills and find out, my Padawan," Qui-Gon replied with a smirk as they entered the hallway. "Now activate your pedometer and show me the shortest path to your classrooms."

The process of measuring the distance to the classrooms took much longer than they expected. It seemed that they met up with one of their friends at every turn. When they had finally finished and recorded the information, they headed into the gardens to check to see how far apart they could now be. Qui-Gon settled on a bench by the fountain in the garden's furthest corner and Obi-Wan jogged down the path leading back to the entrance. He stopped for a few minutes when he reached fifty meters but when he felt no pain he continued on. At seventy-five meters, he met up with one of his classmates so he used stopping for that short conversation to check again.

Obi-Wan had just started walking again when he heard a familiar voice call his name and turned back to see Reeft approaching. "Hi, Reeft. Where are you headed?"

"Just killing time," Reeft replied as he walked beside Obi-Wan. "Finished my zeno-biology exam early so I decided to talk a walk before my next class. You?"

"Long story," Obi-Wan said then changed the subject. "Is everyone meeting for mid meal at 1300 like usual?" When Reeft nodded, he continued. "I should be able to join you guys. Save me a seat, okay?"

"Only if you plan on filling us in on what's been going on with you and Master Jinn," Reeft laughed. "And I want all the sordid details."

"We'll see," Obi-Wan responded with a smile. "Now I've gotta go. See you in the dining hall." Without waiting for an answer, he started jogging again and was surprised to find he was already at one hundred meters. He stopped again at one hundred twenty-five, sitting on a stone bench for over ten minutes to see if the pain started. When it didn't, he started moving again. He felt a slight discomfort after seven minutes at one hundred fifty meters and managed to get to two hundred meters before the discomfort became enough that he sat down and called out mentally for Qui-Gon.

Qui-Gon strode towards where his padawan waited, long legs covering the distance quickly. He had kept a strong focus on the bond to monitor Obi-Wan's reactions and had felt each level of pain as they occurred. His own reactions were continuing to be much less severe. At the first echo of discomfort, he had wanted to rush to the younger man's side but he knew he had to trust Obi-Wan to stop and call to him when the pain got too strong. When he reached the bench, he sat and wrapped an arm around his apprentice's shoulder. "Are you all right, Padawan?"

"Much better now, Master," Obi-Wan replied softly. He sat with his eyes closed as he breathed deeply and released his pain to the Force. After a few minutes, he opened his eyes and looked intently at Qui-Gon. "Why am I affected by the pain at much shorter distances that you are?"

"I can't say for sure but more than likely it's either my more advanced ability to control my body or it's my stronger connection to the Living Force," Qui-Gon explained. "Or maybe it's a combination of both those things." He could see the sadness and frustration in Obi-Wan's face as prodded gently. "What is it, love?"

"I'm sorry that my failings are going to delay our ability to move forward with our lives, Master," Obi-Wan admitted, turning away from Qui-Gon's gaze.

Cupping his apprentice's chin in his palm, Qui-Gon turned Obi-Wan's face to meet his. "How does one acquire skills, Padawan?"

Obi-Wan could see exactly where this conversation was heading, as it was one they'd had numerous times during his apprenticeship. "I know what you're trying to say but this isn't the same thing."

"Oh, but it is," Qui-Gon said softly. Then changing his tone to his stern instructor voice, he added. "Just answer the question, Padawan."

"Practice, experience and the development of natural talents," Obi-Wan groused.

"And you have as many years of practice and experience as I, not to mention as strong a connection to the Living Force," Qui-Gon said firmly.

"No," the younger man grumbled.

Releasing the quivering chin, Qui-Gon ran his fingers down the length of Obi-Wan's braid. "That is the way of things and you need to accept this before we can move forward. Control of one's body is a skill that is founded in the flow of the Living Force within a Jedi. The skill can be honed but not beyond the limits of one's natural abilities. Much like your gift of Sight, love. I do not possess that talent and no matter how much I try will never be able to develop it to even the level you had as a teenager." He brought the thin plait to his lips and kissed the red bead woven into it. "We have been given different strengths by the Force. It will be in combining them that we will find the balance in our new path. Trust in the Force, Obi-Wan, in yourself and in me. Together, we will know what we must do."

Obi-Wan leaned his head against his Master's broad shoulder and sighed. "Sometimes, I wonder how you put up with me being so needy."

Qui-Gon chuckled. "Not needy, just impatient and I wasn't any better at your age. Maybe you should ask Master Yoda about our endless discussions over my inability to see the eddies of the future." When he saw Obi-Wan finally begin to smile, he added. "Though maybe you shouldn't. That would probably be the final straw that would topple me permanently from my Master's pedestal."

"As if that would ever happen," Obi-Wan retorted. His expression softened and he continued. "Thank you for having the patience to gently remind me when I'm being an idiot."

"Now let's head to the dining hall for mid-day meal," Qui-Gon said. "I find I'm getting hungry.

The two men rose from the bench and headed from the garden. Looking at his chrono, Obi-Wan saw that he had a little time before meeting his friends. "Would you mind if I stopped at central stores first?" When he saw Qui-Gon's confused looked, he explained. "We need to get a proper blanket for our bed. No offense, Master, but a goat's hair blanket isn't my idea of a comfortable covering for sleeping. It's coarse and scratchy and makes me itch."

"That blanket is warm and durable and I've had it for years," Qui-Gon replied indignantly.

"Warm and durable is fine for a camping, Master, but not for the comfort of one's bed," Obi-Wan said. "Let me pick up a proper blanket, soft and thick, one that will feel luxurious against your skin."

"I didn't realize that I had raised such a hedonist," Qui-Gon said dryly.

"With the life we lead, I see nothing wrong with indulging in a few tiny luxuries in our own quarters," Obi-Wan quipped. He stopped at the door of the supply area and looked at Qui-Gon. "The dining hall is only about sixty meters away. Go on ahead and I'll be there in a few minutes."

"Maybe I should go with you to protect my interests?" the older man replied. "It wouldn't do to have a frilly blanket on a Jedi Master's bed."

"Are you questioning my good taste?" Obi-Wan retorted. "Trust me, Master." He took a deep breath and plunged forward. "If you don't like the blanket I choose, I will agree to putting back the goat's hair one," he said with a shudder.

"I have your word?" Qui-Gon asked. When his apprentice nodded, he turned and continued alone to the dining hall.

Obi-Wan let out a sigh of relief when his Master acquiesced and left for the dining hall. He had been a little less than forthcoming with the man and he didn't want to have to explain that he had already chosen one. Opening the door, he walked to the counter and called out. "Ser Ryannar, are you here?" Although not Force sensitive, the elderly Elomin had been in charge of the Temple stores since Qui-Gon was an apprentice and was well known and trusted by everyone.

"Good day, young Obi-Wan," Ryannar greeted in his gravely voice as he came out from between the rows of ordered shelving. "I assume you have come for the blanket you asked me to acquire. Let me get it for you."

Obi-Wan thought back to that morning four days ago as he waited. He had come to see Ser Ryannar between his classes after the first night he had shared Qui-Gon's bed. He couldn't understand why his Master had kept the scratchy covering on his bed all these years. The blanket touching his skin had been so uncomfortable that he had immediately wanted to replace it, to give his Master one that was softer and more inviting. He had explained what he wanted and after a few minutes, Ser Ryannar had brought out a catalogue for him to look through. The elder Elomin not only stocked standard Jedi gear in the stores but also had contacts to obtain almost anything that any of the various species living at the Temple might want or need.

Obi-Wan had found what he wanted after only a few minutes. The oversized quilt, filled with the tiny feathers of Ithorian geese, was almost a work of art. The fabric of the top cover was made from the fibers of the Triani silk worm, woven in an intricate pattern of green and blue threads that twisted around and through each other seemingly at random. The background was a light tan and made the colors of the pattern appear much more vibrant. The fabric on the underside was a brushed cotton, solid blue, that Ser Ryannar said was as soft as a Talz cub's fur. The quilt would cost him almost a year's worth of stipends but it would be worth it. He would enjoy giving his no- frills Master something this luxurious. But more than that, the quilt would be a symbol of their bonding, something that belonged to both of them that would turn the large bed from Qui-Gon's bed to their bed.

The sound of a box being put down on the counter pulled Obi-Wan from his thoughts. The cover was removed and a section of the quilt top was visible. "What do you think, young Obi-Wan? Does it meet with your approval?" Ryannar asked.

Obi-Wan fingered the corner of the material as he answered. "This is absolutely perfect. Qui-Gon will love it." He reached in his belt and handed his allocation card to the Elomin. "Thank you for helping me find it." He looked up in surprise when the card was pushed back into his hand. "Ser Ryannar?"

"I hear congratulations are in order for you and Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan," Ryannar began. "Keep your credits. You will need them for your bonding ceremony. Consider this my bonding gift to you both."

Obi-wan looked up in shock. "We cannot accept this. It's too much."

"What need do I have of the credits that accumulate in my account? The Temple provides for all my needs and I have no family to send it to," Ryannar said softly. "You and Qui-Gon have always been special to me. You always took the time to visit with an old man and listen to his rantings. And how many times did one of you bring me a trinket from off-world to add to my collection?" He added with a motion towards the ornate shelf directly behind the counter. "Take this gift and with it my wish that the Force bless you with a long and joyous life together."

Obi-Wan blinked back tears as he crossed behind the counter to hug the elderly man. "Thank you, Ser Ryannar. We will treasure it always."

When he released the young man, Ryannar set about to close and wrap the large box. After wrapping it with string to make it easier to carry, he handed the box to Obi-Wan. "Tell your Master he owes me a visit. It's been too long since I've debated the merits of structure in poetry with the illustrious Qui-Gon Jinn."

"I must be the only person who didn't know about Qui-Gon's poetry," Obi-Wan grumbled. "I'll tell him," he added, as he headed through the door with his package. As he reached the hallway, he looked at his chrono and saw that he was just in time to meet his friends. With air in his step, he walked off in the direction of the dining hall.

Entering through the open archway, Obi-Wan was drawn immediately to the powerful presence of Qui-Gon sitting amid a group of Masters in their dining section. Seated at the table were a few of Qui-Gon friends, Masters Windu, Santee and Unduli and some acquaintances including his own ethics teacher, Master A'Kla. After sending a wave of love to Qui-Gon over the bond, he had started walking towards his friends when he heard the mental summons. Join us for a moment please, Padawan. With wave to his peers to let them know he'd be there in a moment, he walked into the Master dining area. He bowed politely to the seated group. "Good afternoon, Masters." Then he directed his full attention to Qui-Gon. "Did you have need of me, my Master?" he asked politely. He could feel the approval of the council members at his formal deportment and smiled inwardly. If those blowhards had thought that he would give them any ammunition for censure by acting too familiarly in public, they didn't know him very well. Blowhards, really Padawan he was chided mentally before his Master replied to his question.

"I was just speaking to Master A'Kla about the debate tomorrow and he said he would welcome my attendance," Qui-Gon said.

"I can always use another opinion when scoring these things," Master A'Kla stated. "And it would do the students good to have a larger audience. Maybe some of you would like to attend also," he said to the other Master's seated at the table.

Fighting hard to keep from sighing or rolling his eyes, Obi-Wan turned back to his teacher. "That is most gracious of you, Master A'Kla. I'm sure the rest of the class will be thrilled to have the additional scrutiny of Master Jinn." He bowed again and was walking away, when he heard another voice.

"What time is that class?" Mace asked. "I have an open morning tomorrow so maybe I too could attend."

Obi-Wan didn't wait to hear the answer. As he stifled a groan and headed from the table, he sent a mental message to his Master. I may as well enjoy today's noon meal with my friends. The ones in my ethics class won't be speaking to me once they find out that it's my fault they will have illustrious guests for tomorrow's debate. He felt his Master's chuckle before he heard the reply. Let them be surprised. A Jedi has to be able to adapt to changing situations. And I'm sure you can find other things besides classwork to discuss. Not even bothering to dignify Qui-Gon's teasing with an answer, he proceeded directly into the serving line.

After filling a tray with his meal selections, Obi-Wan balanced it and his package and joined his friends. He had barely sat down when the questions began.

"What did your Master want Obi? He doesn't usually bother you at meal time?" Bant asked.

Without giving Obi-Wan a chance to answer, Pa'Uul broke in. "Who cares about that, Bant? Spill it, Kenobi. You've been pretty much holed up with your Master since that night in the club. At first, we saw you in classes and in the training halls but you haven't even been in classes for the past two days. What is going on with you two? And don't spare the details, buddy. You owe us."

Thoughts of the past two days flowed into Obi-Wan's mind and he knew he was grinning from ear to ear. He struggled to contain himself as he sought to explain the changes in his life to his friends with a few details as possible. "As I told you guys outside the training room, my Master and I have formed a lifebond. After meeting with the Council and working with Masters Billaba and Eimath, we were allowed to consummate it. That's what we've been doing for the past couple of days. " He felt a blush rise to his cheeks as his friends stared at him open-mouthed.

"You mean you've been having sex for two days?" Reeft muttered in disbelief.

"Not all the time but a good portion of it," Obi-Wan replied with a smirk. He watched the group turn to stare into the Master's area and felt Qui-Gon's amusement with the situation over their bond. "Will you guys stop being so obvious? A six year old initiate would be able to feel you looking at them."

There weren't too many sexually active padawans who hadn't fantasized about bedding the infamous Master Jinn at one time or another so Obi-Wan had expected the next comment but the source surprised him.

"And did he live up to his billing, Obi-Wan?" the young blond haired woman asked softly.

Obi-Wan stared at the padawan across the table as if she had grown another head. Demure, shy, Ria Conuialary, who blushed six shades of red if someone told her she looked pretty, was asking him about Qui-Gon's sexual prowess. He felt his own blush deepen as he stuttered. "Ria...really...I can't believe you'd ask..."

"Answer the question, Kenobi?" Pa'Uul ordered.

Knowing that his friends wouldn't let it go, Obi-Wan gave in and answered truthfully. "He is absolutely amazing. I never knew sex could be so incredible. And as you all know, I've been far from celibate since I turned sixteen, " he added with a laugh.

"It's because you love each other, Obi," Bant said with conviction.

"I want details, Kenobi," Pa'Uul said again.

"I don't think so, Pa'Uul. We're too old for this locker room behavior," Obi-Wan chided. "Just suffice it to say that we are totally committed to each other.

"It isn't fair. First, you manage to get -- I'll never take another apprentice Jinn -- to select you out of the large number of initiates that pursued him. Then you get said man -- the most lusted after Master in the Temple-- to fall in love with you," Garen said in dismay. "How did you get to be so lucky?"

Obi-Wan put his arm around the shoulder of the friend seated beside him. "I truly don't know, Garen, but I thank the Force continuously for bringing Qui-Gon Jinn into my life."

"Well, there are going to be quite a few broken hearts in the Temple once the news gets out that both Jinn and Kenobi are off the market," Pa'Uul exclaimed. "Maybe that will open the field up for the rest of us even if it's just during the short term while their hearts are mending."

"You are a callous bastard, Pa'Uul," Obi-Wan laughed.

"That may be true but I'm a handsome callous bastard and now that my heaviest competition is out of the picture, I shouldn't lack for willing companions," Pa'Uul retorted.

"You are so full of yourself, Pa'Uul," Garen said with a smile.

"So what have you guys been up to for the past few days?" Obi-Wan asked the group.

With that, the conversation pulled away from the new bondmates and Obi-Wan caught up with Temple events. He found out what he had missed in classes, talked about who was involved in new relationships and Garen told them that he and his Master were due to leave for a mission in a couple of days. They had been visiting for almost an hour when Obi-Wan felt his Master's mental call. "I've got to go. I'll see you guys in class tomorrow," he said.

"Do you have time to spar later?" Reeft asked.

Reeft's Master had injured his back on their last mission and still wasn't up to that level of exercise. "We have a meeting with Master Billaba at 1530 but let me check to see if I can get away for a while after that. Grab one of these guys," he added as he motioned around the table, "and maybe my Master and I can spar against you."

Garen laughed as he looked around. "Maybe if all six of us took you on we might have an outside chance of beating you two. We watched you guys do the 'Avolition of the Rishii' a couple days ago, remember."

"But that was before they spent the past two days having non-stop sex," Pa'Uul replied. "Maybe we should take advantage of their exhausted state."

Obi-Wan had been having a mental conversation with his Master while his friends teased him and found that the older man was intrigued by the challenge. It might be fun, Padawan. 1630 in training salle three. Qui-Gon sent in reply. "Give it your best shot. Meet us in training salle three at 1630. We welcome all takers." With that he picked up the box he had settled on the floor earlier and walked to the doorway to join his Master.

The two men walked back to their quarters at a leisurely pace. They detoured past the training halls to reserve salle three but still got back with an hour to spare before their meeting. After hanging his robe, Qui-Gon settled into his chair and looked back at his apprentice. "Are you going to show me the blanket you purchased?"

Obi-Wan draped his robe over the back of the sofa and handed the box to his Master. "I did pick out the blanket, Master, but in the end I didn't purchase it." Noting Qui-Gon's confused look, he added. "Open it and then I'll explain exactly what happened."

It took only a couple of minutes for Qui-Gon to unwrap and open the box. He gasped when he took in the exquisite quilt it contained. "This is beautiful, Obi-Wan, but I'm pretty sure that this isn't standard issue from central stores." He touched the smooth fabric and studied the eye-catching design.

"No it isn't," Obi-Wan began. He proceeded to explain how he had gone to see Ser Ryannan and ordered the quilt and what had happened when he went to pick it up today. "Ser Ryannan would not accept payment for the quilt. He had heard about the lifebond and presented it to me as a bonding gift for us. I tried to refuse but he wouldn't be dissuaded. He was so sweet, Master. Talking about how special we both were to him and everything." His expression darkened at bit as he added. "He says that you owe him a visit to discuss poetry structure. Was I the only person in the entire Temple who didn't know you wrote poetry?"

"I'm sure there are plenty of people who are unaware of that fact, Padawan," Qui-Gon answered. "Ser Ryannar is a very special person. When I was writing both as an initiate and a padawan, I used to visit him and show him my work. As I got older, we got into some very intense discussions over the validity of the free-form style of poetry. I stopped writing after Xanatos and so I did not go to visit him as much. I have only recently begun to dabble in poetry again."

"Will you show me what you have written?" Obi-Wan asked.

"I will show you later but now I would like to see how this new quilt looks on our bed," Qui-Gon replied. He rose from his chair holding the box, took Obi-Wan's hand and headed for their room.

After taking a minute to pull of the old blanket, Obi-Wan pulled the quilt from the box and laid it reverently over the bed. He stepped back, placed an arm around Qui-Gon's waist and looked intently at his bondmate. "Do you like it?" he asked softly.

"Yes I do, but this is about more than replacing an uncomfortable blanket, isn't it?" Qui-Gon asked gently.

"Am I that transparent?" Obi-Wan responded shyly.

"Only to me. We are rather strongly attuned to each other," Qui-Gon stated. "Now tell me why this is so important to you."

"I wanted to do something that would make it our bed while symbolizing our bond," Obi-Wan explained. "It still felt like I was sharing your bed instead of sleeping with you in ours. Does that make any sense?"

"Yes it does and I should have realized that it would feel that way for you," Qui-Gon replied. "I'm glad that you did this and that you explained the full reason behind it. I'm sure there will be plenty of other things like this that we'll need to work through and we can't do that unless we are totally honest with each other."

"I'm sure we can do that," Obi-Wan said seriously. He kissed Qui-Gon gently and was smiling impishly when he pulled back. "How about we take off our boots and try out our gift?" He directed his Master to sit on the bed then knelt before him to remove the boots. After he finished, he quickly disposed of his own boots and pressed his lover back into the bed. "What do you think, my Master?"

Qui-Gon allowed himself to sink into the depth of the soft quilt and rubbed his hand over the fabric. "It is very luxurious, love. Thank you for picking it out for us."

"And think how much better it will feel when we're naked," Obi-Wan replied with a smirk. "So can I safely store the goat's hair blanket for camping, Master?"

"Yes, brat, now come lie down beside me and test it yourself," Qui-Gon retorted.

Obi-Wan moved to lie beside the older man and let himself bask in the softness of the quilt. After a few minutes, he shifted to lie atop Qui-Gon. "Though I never could complain about comfort lying like this either." He leaned in and covered that inviting mouth, starting slowly then pressing forward until he was licking and tasting that wet cavern.

They traded kisses that way for quite some time, Obi-Wan burying his hands in the long fall of hair and Qui-Gon running his hands over his padawan's back and ass. They tasted and teased each other, holding back their slowly building arousal as they enjoyed just cuddling with each other.

It wasn't until a quick glance at the chrono told him that they would need to hurry to make their meeting that Qui-Gon rolled his bondmate off his body. "We need to get moving if were are going to get to Depa's office on time." He rose from the bed, pulling Obi-Wan with him. They set their uniforms back to right and Qui-Gon took a moment to brush and resecure his hair. That done, they left their quarters and headed for their meeting.

Depa was sitting behind her desk when the Master and Apprentice pair entered. "Right on time, gentlemen. Ni-Dor will be here in a moment. Have a seat," she said as she motioned towards the small sofa. "I hear that you had mid-meal in the dining hall. I assume that means the bond has stabilized somewhat since the first night?"

"We spent some time testing our separation distance this morning and can be about one hundred twenty-five meters apart without any ill effects," Obi-Wan explained. "Hopefully the distance will continue to expand as quickly."

"It will continue to expand Obi-Wan but at its own pace," Depa replied. "You will need to be patient and monitor the situation carefully but I don't expect it to take too long."

The door slid open and Ni-Dor entered the room. "Good afternoon. How are your two doing?" he asked the men on the sofa. "Qui-Gon, were you able to walk here unassisted?" he laughed.

"We are doing very well and surprisingly this old body hasn't failed me as of yet,'" Qui-Gon retorted dryly. Turning back to Depa, he asked. "How do you want to proceed to check the status of the bond?"

"I would like to probe both of you and compare the status and strength of the bond to my earlier probe," Depa replied. She got up from her desk and moved to stand before Obi-Wan. "May I?" When the padawan nodded and lowered his shields, she closed her eyes and used her substantial mental talent to study the bond. Using Force tendrils, she looked for any signs of instability, for any tiny frays in the threads of the Force holding their minds and souls together. Her probe was very detailed and proceeded very slowly.

Obi-Wan closed his eyes and focused inward as Master Billaba probed the bond. He could sense her intense concentration and stayed completely still while she inspected the connections in his mind. Finally her intense probe was completed and he felt her withdraw from his mind.

Qui-Gon was watching Depa and Obi-Wan carefully and felt it the moment she pulled from his padawan's mind. "Well?"

"We will discuss my findings once I'm finished," Depa said seriously. "Ready?" Taking Qui-Gon's lowered shields as agreement, she slid into his mind and inspected the bond just as thoroughly as she had Obi-Wan's.

When Depa finished, she moved back behind her desk. "The connections between you are very strong and stable. I could find no weak areas or formation disparities. I can see that you took great care to stay in sync while your were consummating the bond "

"Knowing that your findings are in line with my last two mental examinations is a great relief," Qui-Gon said. He could feel shock coming from Obi-Wan at the admission that he had been routinely probing the bond. He looked intently at his bondmate and smiled. I examined the bond while you were sleeping. You are my padawan first and foremost, love. You can't have truly expected that I would not be continuously checking where your health and welfare are concerned, he sent.

Will you always be this overprotective, my Master? Obi-Wan sent in response. Probably came the laughing reply in his mind. He turned back to the Council member. "So where do we go from here? Is there anything else we need to pay special heed to?"

"Just proceed carefully and try not to put yourself into any untested situations," Depa replied. "Your shields have developed sufficiently to encompass the expanded bond so the portable shield should no longer be necessary. Return it to central stores at your convenience."

"We will spend the next few days testing our limits within the Temple," Qui-Gon said. "Only then will we move further."

"A sound plan, Qui-Gon," Ni-Dor replied. "Be cautious if you are undertaking any vigorous training apart. It will take a few more days before the bond is totally formed, although it will continue to deepen as time passes. Until then, the comfortable separation distance may shrink during times of heavy physical exertion and stress."

"I would also like you to schedule full evaluations with the healers in three days," Depa instructed. "They need to be able to monitor any physical changes that occur as the bond deepens. Base scans shouldn't be a problem as you both spend more than the average amount of time visiting Healer's Hall," she added with a smile.

I should have realized that the healers would become part of this at some point, his bondmate's voice grumbled in his mind. Qui-Gon chose to ignore him and questioned Depa. "What type of changes?"

Ni-Dor was the one that answered. "Like me, you are the older partner in the lifebond. The meshing of the lifeforce of a much younger person with yours could have some very positive effects. After a while, you may regain some of strength and mobility you have lost over the years."

"I'll grow younger," Qui-Gon said in disbelief.

"No, not really, Ni-Dor laughed, "you just won't feel quite so old."

See Master, I told you I would be good for you, Obi-Wan teased mentally.

After a moment, Qui-Gon's brain began to function again and he asked in concern. "Will the same type of changes occur in Obi-Wan?"

"No Qui-Gon, the younger partner is never affected that way," Depa reassured. "Any other questions?" When neither man spoke, she said. "I would like to meet again after you have seen the healers and at that time we can schedule another appearance before the Council. I'm sure they will wish to assign you both some additional duties while you are Temple bound."

"I'm sure they will," Qui-Gon replied dryly as he rose from the sofa. He walked to Depa and took her hand firmly in his. "Thank you again for mentoring us through the lifebond. I don't know what we would have done without both of you,'" he added as he looked over at Ni-Dor. He realized that Obi-Wan had moved beside him and was bowing deeply to the two Masters. "I'll contact you in a couple of days."

Qui-Gon turned back to his apprentice, "Come, Padawan. We have an appointment to keep in salle three." He could feel the two Masters staring at him questioningly but continued with Obi-Wan into the hallway.

They had been walking in silence for a short distance when Obi-Wan spoke. "Qui-Gon, I know that until my knighting you are responsible for my welfare but I do not think there should be any secrets between us in regard to the lifebond. I truly understand your need to check on me but I ask that you not do so without telling me. In return, I will do my best not to let it bother me when you are overprotective."

"I can only promise that I will try, my Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon replied sincerely. "I have been your Master for much longer than I have been your bondmate and old habits are hard to break."

"That will have to be enough then," Obi-Wan replied. After making sure there was no one else in the hallway, he kissed Qui-Gon gently. "Now, Master, we have a challenge to face." Laughing softly, the two men headed to training salle three.

The two men had hung their cloaks and were doing a slow warm up when the door to the training room opened. Obi-Wan watched as his six friends disposed of their cloaks and walked into the center of the room. He was surprised when about thirty padawans of various ages entered behind them before the door slid shut. Looking at Pa'Uul, he asked. "Reinforcements?"

"No, our cheering section!" Pa'Uul chuckled.

Seeing Obi-Wan's confusion, Bant explained. "It seems that someone overheard us talking as we left the dining hall and word of the challenge spread. There also seems to be a healthy betting pool going run by Lyrien," she added, pointing out the dark haired man leading the group.

"Odds?" Obi-Wan asked.

"We're favored three to one," Pa'Uul said smugly. "Guess they figure we can wear you out."

"I'll take that bet," Qui-Gon said as he glanced over at his chuckling apprentice. "Why don't you warm up," he instructed the padawans as he approached Lyrien.

Disbelief and a touch of fear were evident on the Senior Padawan's face as Qui-Gon Jinn approached him. "Master Jinn?"

"Will my marker be acceptable as a wager, Padawan Menior?" Qui-Gon asked.

"Yes," Lyrien croaked as he handed his datapad to the Master. He watched Qui-Gon type in his bet then handed it back to him. "Thank you, Master," he said as he bowed politely to the older man.

Qui-Gon nodded his acknowledgment then moved back to the center of the room. You enjoyed intimidating him way too much, my Master, his apprentice chided mentally. He deserved it for discounting us with such insulting odds. Though my winnings should be enough to take my bondmate out for an expensive dinner next ten, maybe at Chalarney's, he sent in return.

Obi-Wan turned back to his friends. "Tag-team rules?" he asked the group. For decades, initiates and padawans had held tag team matches in various venues. The system was quite simple - only two people would compete from each team at one time but they could switch off as often as they wanted. When a person motioned for a replacement, their opponent had to back off until the switch was made. If a killing blow was landed, that person was out of the fight. The team with the last man standing, so to speak, was the winner.

"Tag-team rules it is," Pa'Uul answered. "Garen and I will start."

Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan bowed formally to the group before taking their positions at the edge of the starting circle. The six padawans bowed in unison to their opponents before the non-participating ones walked to the edge of the floor. Pa'Uul and Garen took their positions and the match began.

Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan allowed their opponents to take the offensive, conserving energy as they moved in unison to deflect each slash of the blades. They seamlessly switched adversaries a couple of times before Garen signaled that he was ready to switch.

Bant quickly moved into the fray, thrusting and slashing at her oldest friend while her partner went against Master Jinn. She saw Pa'Uul motion to Reeft as she parried a hard thrust. She battled for a few more minutes before calling Ria to replace her and saw Reeft motion to Na'lat as she returned to the side.

And so the battle progressed, with Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon defending against all six of the friends in turn. An aerial flip over the lunging Ria gave Obi-Wan the first killing blow. Foot pressed to her chest and saber millimeters from her neck, Ria conceded with a smile. "Well fought, Obi-Wan. At least I lasted three rounds." When Obi-Wan stepped back, she called out. "Your turn, Reeft."

Before Reeft managed his first thrust, Obi-Wan saw his Master dispatch Garen soundly, disarming the younger man and sending him sprawling across the floor. Garen regained his feet and bowed in defeat then Na'lat stood to face the Master.

As so the match proceeded, with the pairs fighting evenly through two more switches. When the tide turned, it was in favor of the padawan group. In a solid offensive wave, Pa'Uul managed to back Obi-Wan into a wall and prepared to dispatch his friend.

Obi-Wan twisted away from the killing strike at the last possible moment and flipped over his opponent. That was careless, Padawan. I could swap positions with you if you are finding your opponent too challenging, his Master's mental voice scolded. I can handle Pa'Uul just fine, Master. I think you should concentrate on your own opponent, he sent back as he watched Reeft almost get his long reach past his Master.

After taking a moment to send his Padawan the mental equivalent of a snort, Qui-Gon turned his full attention back to Reeft. In a matter of less than six strikes and three parries, he held his blade pointed at the center of Reeft's chest.

Disengaging his saber, Reeft said. "I concede Master Jinn. Thank you for the opportunity to learn from you," he added with a bow as he stepped back.

"Your skills have improved tremendously since the last time we sparred, Reeft," Qui-Gon replied.

"I have Obi to thank for that, Master Jinn, and you for allowing him time to work with me," Reeft responded before giving over his place to Na'lat.

When Bant replaced Pa'Uul, Obi-Wan moved to a defensive posture to allow himself to rebuild his strength a bit. Once he felt a bit more rested, he changed tactics and had Bant struggling to block his thrusts. A Force push against his off-balance opponent sent Bant to the floor with her saber hilt skidding beside her. He leaned down and pulled his Calamarian friend to her feet. "Well fought, Bant."

With a wide smile, Bant answered. "I guess it was hoping for too much to think that today would be the day I would defeat you." Turning towards the person coming to replace her, she added. "Maybe Pa'Uul will have better luck."

Just as he blocked Pa'Uul's first thrust, Obi-Wan saw Na'lat begin flounder under Qui-Gon's assault. Looking intently at his opponent, Obi-Wan smiled dangerously. "Looks like it will come down to you, buddy. Hope you're ready." With that he launched into a flurry of thrusts and lunges, leaps and parries. Pa'Uul matched his movements, even going on the offensive a couple of times. He was peripherally aware that Na'lat had conceded to Qui-Gon and that his Master was standing off to the side, watching him closely. This small break in his focus almost allowed Pa'Uul inside his guard. My offer still stand, Obi-Wan, he heard in his mind. No thank you, he replied as he went on the offensive again.

The battle went on for quite a while as the two friends were very evenly matched. Obi-Wan used his aerobatics to the maximum, executing leaps and flips that had him moving all over the floor. Pa'Uul was able to keep up the pace for a while by anticipating some of his friend's signature moves but found he was tiring from chasing Obi-Wan all over the floor. He could feel that Obi-Wan was tiring as well and began to think it would end up being a matter of who tired completely first. Not that beating Obi-Wan would end the match. There was still the matter of facing Master Jinn if he did manage to succeed.

A few moments later, Pa'Uul found he shouldn't have worried about facing Master Jinn. With a quick series of movements, Obi-Wan had forced him to his knees and he looked up to see his friend's blue blade pointed at his chest. He extinguished his saber and held it out to Obi-Wan. "You do realize how much I hate this don't you? I really thought we could beat you this time."

"Hate leads to suffering," Obi-Wan replied in a passable imitation of Yoda. "It was a good fight. You almost had me a couple of times."

"Too bad almost only counts with concussion grenades," Pa'Uul laughed as he rose to his feet. He stepped away from Obi-Wan and bowed to Qui-Gon. "Thank you for the challenging match, Master Jinn. According to my Master, losing is the Force's way of helping me learn humility."

Qui-Gon fought to keep the smile from his face as he looked at Pa'Uul. It seemed that he wasn't the only one who saw the young man's tendency towards arrogance. "I would be more than happy to assist if your Master feels you need further lessons in humility, Padawan."

"I am feeling sufficiently humbled, Master Jinn, not to mention a whole lot poorer," Pa'Uul replied with a frown.

"You should have learned not to bet against me by now, Pa'Uul," Obi-Wan said with a smirk as he moved to his Master's side. He turned to the older man. "Shall we collect your winnings and allow my friends some privacy to lick their wounds?"

The three of them walked over to where everyone else sat and Qui-Gon approached Lyrien to collect his winnings. "You don't seem to be paying out much, Padawan Menior. Am I the only person that bet on us?"

"Just you and Master Santee," Lyrien replied as he dropped the credits into Qui-Gon's palm. "Everyone else thought that the sheer numbers would end up defeating you two." He looked down at the pile of credits before him. "Not that I am bemoaning the outcome for a minute."

"I can see that. Just remember, Padawan, that when you gamble, at some point you will lose," Qui-Gon said over his shoulder. Taking his apprentice by the elbow, he added. "Let's go, Obi-Wan. I could use a shower and some food."

Grabbing their cloaks, the two of them left the training room and headed back to their quarters. Within a few minutes, they reached it. Obi-Wan took their cloaks and hung them before dropping onto the sofa to remove his boots. He wiggled his freed toes happily then propped his feet onto the low table. "That was some workout. Those guys really made us work for our victory. At one point, I though Pa'Uul had me."

"So did I," Qui-Gon replied. "Did you notice anything else while we were fighting?"

"I was much more aware of where you were and what you were planning than I've ever been before," Obi-Wan answered. "A side benefit of the lifebond?"

"Probably. I would like to test that theory further by scheduling a sparing match again a more challenging pair," Qui-Gon explained. "I was considering trying to set up something with Knights Mindanyl and Nashira if they are currently in Temple."

Obi-Wan's eyes lit up at the thought. Mindanyl was the person who had taught him the aerial segments of Avolition of the Rishii and he and his bonded partner, Nashira, were the ones who defeated he and Qui-Gon in the pair's competition last year. "Great idea. Master." He pulled his feet from the table and stood as his nose wrinkled in distaste. "I really need to shower. Separately or together, Master," he added huskily.

"Separately, Padawan," Qui-Gon answered with a smile. "After showers and a quick meal, I would like the pleasure of long, slow lovemaking with my bondmate, in the comfort of our bed, under our luxurious quilt." He felt the desire and lust surging between them at his words and kissed the tip of Obi-Wan's nose. "Do those plans meet with your approval?"

"Yes, my Master," Obi-Wan groaned as he struggled to keep his body under control. Without another word, he left the common room for the refresher.

Qui-Gon had the meal half prepared when Obi-Wan returned to the kitchen. He was dressed in a pair of lounging pants and his braid hung loose. He moved to stand beside the older man. "I can finish this if you'd like to shower now, Master."

"Thank you, Padawan. That would be a kindness," Qui-Gon replied.

Obi-Wan set to finishing the food preparations as Qui-Gon left the room. He had the food on the table and the tea poured by the time the older man came back. "Sit, Master. Everything is ready."

They chatted about a number of menial things as they ate and made a few plans for the following day. When they had finished, they cleaned up quickly and headed for their bedroom with great anticipation. When they got to the bed, Obi-Wan reached for the ties to Qui-Gon's leggings. "May I?" When his lover nodded, he untied them, slid the loose pants down and prompted him to step out of them. Tossing them aside, he took two steps back and looked over the imposing, naked form of his bondmate. "Sometimes, I fear that this is all a dream and that I'll wake up and we once again will be just Master and Padawan."

Qui-Gon pulled his young lover into his arms and held him tightly against his chest. "It may have taken us a long time to get here but we are together now in all ways." He tipped Obi-Wan's face up and kissed him tenderly. "I love you with everything that I am." He undid the ties to his lover's pants and pushed them to the floor. "Now, let me show you how real this is."

Qui-Gon directed his young lover to the bed, carefully turned back the silk quilt and pushed him to lie back. He covered the inviting body with his own and began a slow path of kisses and caresses. His lips and tongue traced the whorl of his lover's ear then sucked the earlobe into his mouth. He moved on to his forehead, eyebrows and cheeks before finally covering the soft lips with his own.

Obi-Wan opened his mouth to Qui-Gon's questing tongue, relishing in the feel of it twining against his. When his Master's lips parted, he began his own exploration, tasting and probing the warm wetness of his lover's mouth. His tongue licked lazily at the full bottom lip before he nipped at it gently. When he released it, he captured the upper lip and gave it the same thorough treatment before pressing his tongue back into Qui-Gon's mouth.

They traded kisses for what seemed like hours, much like they had when fully dressed earlier in the day. They explored each other's mouths with a thoroughness that was both enticing and frustrating. A few times they released their holds on each other's lips to nip at the smooth columns of throat but their lips were inevitably drawn back together. Their arousal grew as the kisses continued. Soon they were rocking their hips so that their erections slid against one another with each motion. The pulses of need flowing over the bond spiraled and they could wait no longer to be fully joined.

Qui-Gon pulled back to kneel between the spread legs of his bondmate and accepted the small bottle of oil that Obi-Wan placed in his palm. He quickly but carefully prepared his young lover, hastily coated his throbbing erection and lifted his partner's legs to rest against his chest. He lifted Obi-Wan's hips and pressed the head of his penis against the coated opening. "Feel the reality, love," he said as he sheathed himself with a single thrust.

The sensations of that velvety steel filling his body and Qui-Gon's love flooding their bond took away Obi-Wan's capability for speech or even thought. The presence of his Master within his mind seemed to grow even stronger until he felt almost consumed by his Light. Unable to do anything more than feel, he sent his emotions back across the bond and floated in the erotic sensations flooding his body.

With his lover's emotions surging through him, Qui-Gon's heart swelled as he felt Obi-Wan surrender to the moment. Allowing himself to do the same, he concentrated on the silken heat surrounding him and the bright presence within his mind until pleasure became almost painful ecstasy. He held on for a few more thrusts until that ecstasy exploded like a million tiny surges of pleasure flowing though his entire body.

His orgasm rushed through him like a tidal wave and all Obi-Wan could do was hold on for the ride. Surges of pleasure flowed through him as his seed spurted from his penis without the slightest touch. After a few moments or was it an eternity, the shudders stopped and he was able to focus enough to open his eyes. The sight before him took his breath away. Lost in the power of his orgasm, Qui-Gon's head was thrown back, eyes closed, mouth open in a silent cry, loose brown hair flowing around his shoulders, looking every bit the warrior king of ancient myth.

As the tremors racked his body, Qui-Gon struggled to remain kneeling and not collapse in a melted heap on the body beneath him. When they finally abated, he withdrew from his lover's body and rolled to lie beside him. Grabbing his lounging pants from the floor, he used the fabric to quickly cleaned them then drew his lover into his arms. He dropped a kiss to the spiky hair and watched as Obi-Wan lifted his face towards his. A mischievous glint shone in his padawan's eyes in spite of the sated expression on his face. "Something you want to say, Obi-Wan?"

A matching smile blossomed on his face as Obi-Wan looked into those smiling blue eyes. "I just never thought your most oft repeated lesson would prove so true in this situation." When he saw the confusion, he placed a hand over his lover's heart and continued. "I never imagined that --'Your focus determines your reality' -- could apply so accurately to our private lives as well."

With a wave of his hand, Qui-Gon drew up the blue/green silk quilt and tucked it gently around their bodies. "Force willing, that maxim will prove true for us for many years to come."

The End. (for now)