Summary: Qui-Gon has a hard time dealing with his apprentice's
disobedience.
Spoiler: Slightly for the JA books. Xanatos is
mentioned.
WARNING: !!! This story deals with the issue of corporal
punishment. So if you don't want or don't like to read about
this kind of stuff, don't go any further. !!!
Disclaimer: Lucasfilm and George own everything.
Author's note: This story is dedicated to my wonderful
beta-reader, Kat, who did the most amazing job. Her patience
was infinite and her support gave me the courage I needed to
finish this story. Thank you so much, Kat! All remaining
mistakes are mine.
Qui-Gon Jinn keyed in the access-code for the door to his rooms
and entered with elastic steps. The meeting with the First
Senator of Nevilla had gone surprisingly well and so he was
back in the Temple a good few hours earlier than he had
expected. He had been prepared to spend the night in tedious
negotiations, not thinking he would return home before dawn.
With the additional information he could now finally complete
the dreaded report that the Council was anticipating eagerly.
Or so he thought before taking in the sight of his quarters.
Three young apprentices - his own among them - were sitting in
front of his desk, their eyes fixed on the large viewscreen
embedded in the wall. They were surrounded by empty plates, the
remains of snacks and several beverages, and a large variety of
candy, partly on the table, partly on or in the carpet. Qui-Gon
had a second to wonder if the ice-cream would leave permanent
marks on it before the ear-deafening noise of the game the
three boys were playing demanded his immediate attention.
"Obi-Wan!" he called out. No reaction. Qui-Gon raised his voice
some more. "Obi-Wan, shut that off!" The three boys still
didn't acknowledge his presence. With decisive steps he walked
over to the screen and punched the power button. Then he turned
and faced the three flabbergasted apprentices.
"Master!" Obi-Wan's voice nearly was a scream. The Padawan
jumped up, face reddened from the heat of their game. Or was it
the shock of his Master's appearance?
Before his student could say anything else, Qui-Gon gave the
two other boys his most terrifying stare. "Get out. Both of
you. Your Masters will hear about this in the morning." They
both murmured a humble "Yes, Master Jinn" and hurried out the
door to leave Qui-Gon alone with his impertinent apprentice.
Obi-Wan had taken a few steps back and was now standing with
his head bowed and his hands behind his back, chewing on his
lower lip.
Qui-Gon sighed deeply. This was not at all what he had expected
from his Padawan. The short flare of anger he had felt at the
sight and sound of his quarters had subsided completely now,
thanks the Force. He moved over to the small kitchenette,
cautiously avoiding stepping on the plates on the floor, and
started heating some water for tea. His preparations finished,
he returned to the living area and now trusted his voice to
sound as neutral as ever when he addressed his apprentice, who
hadn't moved from his spot.
"Padawan?"
The boy turned towards him and curtly looked up to meet his
Master's gaze. But at Qui-Gon's frown he instantly hung his
head again. "Yes, Master."
"What time is it?"
"Err... About twelve thirty, I guess." His voice was a mere
whisper. He knew where this was heading.
"And at what time were you supposed to be in bed?"
"At ten, Master," the apprentice answered, almost inaudibly. He
watched his feet intently, not daring to look up again.
"Ah," was all his Master replied to the confession. "And how
long have you and your friends been playing this game?"
"Since the early afternoon, Master," Obi-Wan said and added
more firmly: "After my last class had ended."
Qui-Gon nodded to himself and thought for a while. "Bring me
the game, Padawan," he finally ordered.
Obi-Wan winced, sharply. "It's just a silly little game,
Master, it won't..."
"Padawan!" That did it. The young Jedi hastily removed the game
from Qui-Gon's computer, handed it over to the Jedi Master, and
stepped back again, all the time not once looking up at him.
Qui-Gon silently read the labels of the game and his frown
deepened. He suppressed another sigh. "Obi-Wan, how old are
you?"
The young man in question had to swallow hard before he
answered. "Fourteen, Master."
"And why, in your opinion, is this game restricted to players
eighteen years and above?"
Obi-Wan heaved a deep breath and raised his head slowly. "Due
to the adult content of this entertainment-medium the use for
minors is strictly..."
Qui-Gon couldn't believe his ears. Was the boy mocking him?
"Stop that, Padawan. As I recall I asked for your opinion. I
never ordered you to recite the warning label!" With an effort
he held onto his self-imposed calm. Obi-Wan had closed his eyes
and bowed his head again. The older Jedi shook his head
slightly. What had gotten into his apprentice? Only this
morning he had thought himself to be a lucky Master, with
regard to Obi-Wan's outstanding records in the last months.
Qui-Gon reached along their bond to get a better idea of his
apprentice's feelings at the moment, but Obi-Wan had shielded
as tightly as he could. The Jedi Master could only sense traces
of guilt and a little defiance in him before Obi-Wan noticed
Qui-Gon's spying and closed his shields even more. He had
become quite capable in this in the last six months. The
defiance in Obi-Wan bothered the older Jedi. What in all
heavens' names had gotten into him? On the other hand, under
further consideration, hadn't Obi-Wan been a little too well
behaved lately? He placed the game-disc on the low living-room
table and redirected his attention towards his disobedient
apprentice.
"However, Padawan, I'm glad for you that your "Advanced
cultures in the outer Gerftur-sector"-exam you were supposed to
study for this afternoon has been canceled." The boy flinched
again and Qui-Gon knew he had hit the mark. "It has been
canceled, hasn't it?" He got no answer from his apprentice and
so he added in a warning tone: "Padawan..." And now Obi-Wan
couldn't take it any longer. He exploded.
"Damn it, Master! You know perfectly well that it hasn't been.
So stop torturing me and just send me away or punish me or
whatever you're going to do to me now..." Obi-Wan's voice
trailed off. The keen and furious eyes which had met Qui-Gon's
gaze at the beginning of his outburst were now filled with
tears and he quickly brought his head down again to hide them
from his Master. Despite Obi-Wan's tight shielding Qui-Gon
could clearly sense the anger now that emerged from his
apprentice. Anger towards himself, not towards Qui-Gon. The
youth was trembling now and the Jedi Master decided that it was
enough for one night.
"Go to bed, Padawan. We'll talk about this after your classes
tomorrow." His voice was gentle and calm, not a trace of anger
detectable in it. And there really was none in Qui-Gon. All he
felt now was disappointment, not anger. Obi-Wan raised his head
once more and gave his Master a disbelieving and questioning
look, but obediently turned and went into his room after
Qui-Gon's confirming nod. The older Jedi let out the heavy sigh
he had been holding back for some time now and poured himself a
cup of tea. A quick investigation told him that the three boys
had actually managed to eliminate almost everything edible and
Qui-Gon wondered for a moment what Obi-Wan's explanation for
the empty shelves would have been.
When he returned to the living area he didn't need the Force to
tell that Obi-Wan was crying. He could clearly hear it. Opposed
to the quarters themselves, the walls and doors inside weren't
soundproof. His stomach cramped at the sound but he willed it
to relax again. Qui-Gon placed his cup on the table next to the
thrice cursed game, sat down on the sofa, rested his elbows on
his knees, and buried his face in his hands. What was he
supposed to do now? Obi-Wan had pulled stunts before but never
like this. He had never abused Qui-Gon's trust in him. Instead
of studying for his exam he had intentionally violated the
instructions his Master had given him and had used the
opportunity of Qui-Gon's absence to not only indulge in
personal interests but also to break the regulations of the
Coruscant-censorship. Sending him away, as his Padawan had
suggested, was naturally no option. If the Masters abandoned
their apprentices for escapades like this, the Temple would be
running out of Padawans very soon. They were just kids after
all.
Qui-Gon looked up and could only shake his head at the
condition of their chambers. One thing was for sure: Obi-Wan
would be busy quite for some time tomorrow clearing all this
away and rubbing the stains out of the carpet. The Jedi
Master's chest tightened painfully when he thought about the
punishment his apprentice theoretically deserved for this. No,
there was no use in musing about this now. Tomorrow was
certainly early enough. Better call it a night and get some
distance. Qui-Gon emptied his cup and brought it back into the
kitchen before going to the bathroom for a quick shower.
He headed for his room when he was finished and passed his
Padawan's door on his way. Sith, Obi-Wan was still crying. He
definitely couldn't leave him like this. His conscience alone
forbade it. Besides, Obi-Wan needed his sleep in order to pass
his exam tomorrow morning. He knocked quietly on the door and
entered the room. His apprentice had curled himself up into a
ball, lying on the bed, sobbing. He tried to wipe some of the
tears away when he saw his Master but wasn't very successful.
He raised himself into a sitting position, not daring to look
directly at Qui-Gon.
The older Jedi closed the distance between them with two steps
and sat down next to Obi-Wan on the bed. The Master raised his
hand to gently stroke Obi-Wan's cheek and was shocked to see
that his apprentice flinched away from his hand. His Padawan
obviously feared to be beaten. "Hush, Obi-Wan, I'm not going to
hurt you. Have I ever raised my hand against you?" He continued
when his apprentice shook his head. "Then why should I start
with it now? Come here, Padawan." He closed his arms around
Obi-Wan and hugged him tightly. Fresh tears were running down
Obi-Wan's already swollen face. "Padawan, you know I will never
strike you with my hands. I don't need a Padawan who flinches
every time I raise one of them to scratch my beard." He didn't
know what else to say, he just wanted to say something.
"Please don't send me away, Master," Obi-Wan pleaded when he
was able to speak again. "Something like this will never happen
again, I promise. Please, Master, I... I..."
Qui-Gon chuckled softly. "I won't do that, Obi-Wan, don't
worry. Now calm down, you need to get some rest."
But Obi-Wan was much too relieved and too excited to follow his
Master's advice. "I'm sorry, Master," he repeated over and over
again, in different variations.
"I know, Padawan," Qui-Gon interrupted him finally. "And you
will be even more sorry when I'm finished with you, believe
me." Qui-Gon took some of the gravity out of his words by
gently rocking his apprentice back and forth but Obi-Wan
flinched nevertheless. Although he knew that accepting
punishment was a necessary part of his training, he was
naturally still afraid of it.
"I know what you must think now, Master, but this is really the
first time this has ever happened. And it will be the last time
also, I swear," Obi-Wan whispered after a while.
While he listened to his apprentice's outpouring Qui-Gon tried
to think of a method to calm him down. There was no way of
leaving now. He couldn't remember having been in such a state
himself but then again memory tends to distort events.
Meanwhile Obi-Wan went on and on, his voice nearly tipping over
now and then.
"Master, I never intended to let this happen. I already had
started studying for that..." His Padawan interrupted himself
before he could use a rather unpleasant description for the
dreaded examination. After the last test he had felt miserable
about the whole class, fearing that another result like the
last time would ruin his records. Qui-Gon had needed
considerable time and patience to convince Obi-Wan that he was
capable of succeeding - if he put enough effort into it, making
today's incident all the more surprising.
Qui-Gon concentrated again on his Padawan's explanations and
apologies. "... just wanted to test the game, to see if it was
working. But then... I didn't even realize how late it had
become. After all Calron and Nas'Kie were still there and so I
gathered it couldn't be that late..."
The older Jedi knew this monologue would lead to nothing.
Obi-Wan needed his sleep and he had to do something about it.
With a harsh voice he interrupted the more or less coherent
flow of words. "No, Obi-Wan, I think you relied on the fact
that I would be gone till the morning and so you thought that
the three of you could involve yourselves with that game
without being discovered. This can't be altered now. But you
have an exam to face and that's all that matters now. So now
you need to relax and free your mind of today's events."
If Qui-Gon had believed his words would help Obi-Wan to begin a
calming technique he was mistaken. The mention of the test
changed the subject, but didn't halt the constant talking of
his agitated apprentice. "Master, I cannot possibly face this
test. I need a good result and I won't even pass it. Maybe I
will be sick tomorrow..."
That was the last straw. "Enough of that, Padawan! Haven't you
already done enough for one day?" Obi-Wan obviously thought for
a moment about answering his Master's rhetorical question
before he cast his eyes down, finally silenced. But his
breathing and the heaving of his shoulders told Qui-Gon that
the youth was still in no state to calm down. He placed his
right hand under Obi-Wan's chin and lifted his head. Misery was
plainly written on Obi-Wan's face and the expressive eyes were
in turmoil. The Jedi Master ordered in a firm voice, "Look at
me, Padawan." When Obi-Wan complied, Qui-Gon continued. "You
will take that test whatever the outcome. Running away from an
exam won't help you either. It won't kill you if you fail."
Obi-Wan stared at him, and although there were still tears
brimming in his eyes, the crying had stopped. His face had lost
some of its red color and he was breathing more calmly now.
Qui-Gon nodded slowly. "Now will you relax and sleep for the
little time that's left?"
"Yes, Master, I will tr..." A small smile escaped his
apprentice. "I will, Master."
Despite himself the older Jedi marveled at Obi-Wan's spirit.
With an effort he kept his face neutral. "You may sleep in my
room tonight, Padawan. This way I'll be able to support your
calming down." The relieved expression on Obi-Wan's face told
him how uncertain his apprentice still was. No wonder, after
all the emotional uproar Obi-Wan had undergone. The fact that
his apprentice was responsible for most of it didn't help a
bit. Without waiting for a vocal reply to his offer the Jedi
Master stood, effortlessly gathered the exhausted body of his
Padawan up in his arms, and made his way to his own room.
He sat Obi-Wan down in his sleeping-chamber where his
apprentice asked to use the bathroom and Qui-Gon dismissed him
with a wave of his hand. He fetched a second pillow from his
wardrobe; they probably wouldn't need a second blanket. Qui-Gon
thought about his decision to let his Padawan sleep in his bed
tonight. With it he was actually rewarding him for his actions
instead of reprimanding and disciplining him. On the other
hand, Obi-Wan was running high on adrenaline, over-energetic
(and a little hyperactive, the rational voice of Healer Asdo'r
reminded him), and still rather excited, so he probably
wouldn't sleep at all tonight if left on his own. No, he had
made the right choice. Obi-Wan's test was scheduled for six in
the morning and he ordered the computer to wake them at five
fifteen. Qui-Gon desperately shook his head once more when he
realized it was already almost half past one. He considered for
a moment giving Obi-Wan something to make him sleep but he
rejected this thought quickly. It was already too late at
night, Obi-Wan would be very drowsy in the morning if he used
any kind of medication now.
Already dressed for the night, he lay down in his bed and a
short time later his apprentice joined him, also changed into
his night-clothes and freshly washed. As usual he snuggled
close to his Master and welcomed the protective arm Qui-Gon put
around him after dimming the lights. One could think his
apprentice had just had one of his nightmares, and his Master
was letting him sleep in his bed to delay further counseling
and discussions until the morning, if it hadn't been for the
boy's pounding heart and the unsteady rhythm of his breathing.
Qui-Gon was right, Obi-Wan hadn't calmed down entirely yet.
"Master?"
The older Jedi restrained yet another exasperated sigh. "Yes,
Padawan?"
"Are you still very mad at me, Master?"
"Didn't we agree to talk about this in the morning, Obi-Wan?"
"Well, technically, Master, it is morning."
Qui-Gon was glad his apprentice couldn't see his smile. "Brat."
"I just want to make sure you know that I'm terribly sorry
about what happened tonight."
"I do know that, Padawan. But you have to face the consequences
all the same."
A small sigh. "I know, Master. This is bad, isn't it?"
"Yes, Padawan, and now sleep or I'll make you sleep," Qui-Gon
threatened idly.
He felt his apprentice tense next to him. "No suppository,
please, Master."
"Then sleep now, Padawan."
"Yes, Master."
And so he did. With a little help from Qui-Gon who carefully
sent sleep suggestions along their bond before he fell asleep
himself.
Qui-Gon awoke when his apprentice suddenly jumped up from his
position beside him and practically fled out of the room. The
older Jedi stumbled to his feet, followed his apprentice and
was about to ask what was wrong when the sounds coming from the
bathroom told him everything and more he wanted to know. He
added 'vomiting in the middle of the night' to the list of
things he didn't enjoy about having an apprentice. Qui-Gon
rubbed some sleep out of his eyes and slowly entered the
bathroom, switching on the lights his Padawan had left off in
his haste to reach the toilet in time.
The sight of his totally exhausted Padawan, bent over the
toilet, cramping as he threw up, almost hurt the Jedi Master
physically. He knelt down next to him and tenderly stroked the
short red-blond hair. The soothing litany he intoned probably
wouldn't help his apprentice's stomach but it certainly
couldn't hurt either.
Obi-Wan almost couldn't breathe and Qui-Gon feared he would
pass out from suffocation when finally the young man trusted
his stomach enough to lift his head. He panted hoarsely and his
face was as green as a human face could get. "Do the words
'having an upset stomach' mean anything to you, Padawan?"
Qui-Gon asked kindly. Obi-Wan just had the time to throw his
Master an accusing look before his stomach continued its
rebellion. The next time he raised his head sweat was running
down his face and he looked ready to faint. Qui-Gon decided
that this was enough. "I'm going to call Healer Asdo'r,
Padawan," the older Jedi stated and moved to get up when
Obi-Wan grabbed the sleeve of his sleeping-tunic.
"No, Master! That won't be necessary."
Qui-Gon frowned deeply. "Have you any idea how you look,
Obi-Wan?"
"I can only guess, Master, but really, the last thing I'm
missing this night is a trip to the Healers." Obi-Wan looked so
pitiful now that Qui-Gon followed his wishes for the moment. He
nodded his agreement and watched compassionately as Obi-Wan
vomited again. Qui-Gon wondered for a moment what had caused
this: the quantity and variety of food Obi-Wan had consumed or
the following excitement. Or both. He sympathetically slapped
the youth's shoulder and left for the kitchen to brew some
light tea for his apprentice. He would probably need it after
this.
Some ten minutes later Obi-Wan joined him at the small kitchen
table and looked doubtfully at the steaming cup his Master
placed before him. "Will it stay down?" he asked warily.
Qui-Gon shrugged his shoulders and smiled slightly. "There's
only one way to find out, isn't there?" the Jedi Master
replied, noticing that the color of Obi-Wan's face had turned
from green to 'pale as a corpse'. Obi-Wan hesitated for another
second but then carefully sipped at the hot drink his Master
had made for him. Although there were large, dark rings under
his Padawan's eyes Qui-Gon didn't think either of them was
going to find more sleep this night. It was way past three in
the morning now.
When the tea had stayed down for more than fifteen minutes
Qui-Gon instructed Obi-Wan to take a shower. His Padawan looked
a little confused but did as he was told. "And bring your notes
and books for the advanced cultures exam with you when you
return," he called after him when Obi-Wan was about to leave
the room.
"But, Master, I don't..." the young Jedi started but Qui-Gon
interrupted him.
"Do as I tell you, Obi-Wan!" he ordered. It came out harsher
than he had intended but it had the desired effect. Obi-Wan
followed his orders without another comment.
It was nearly four when they started studying for Obi-Wan's
test and almost five thirty when Qui-Gon knew that it wouldn't
be as bad as his apprentice foresaw. Obi-Wan was an intelligent
young man and so he was able to answer a lot of questions by
logically establishing connections between two events or
bringing things into context. It would have to do.
When Obi-Wan returned to his room to dress, Qui-Gon prepared a
breakfast which he knew his student would refuse. The Jedi
Master only made him swallow his proteins before Obi-Wan wished
his Master a good day. He was almost out the door when Qui-Gon
called him back once more. Obi-Wan was nervous and could hardly
stand still. The older Jedi lifted Obi-Wan's chin once more to
meet his eyes. "You can come home after you've finished this
exam," he informed his Padawan. "I will excuse you for all your
following classes, all right?"
This offer made Obi-Wan's sad eyes sparkle with gratitude and
relief. "Yes, Master. Thank you." Qui-Gon let go of his
apprentice and waved him out of the room before he contacted
Obi-Wan's instructors and made good on his promise.
The Jedi Master walked through the Temple corridors with a
decisiveness he didn't feel in his heart. It had been a relief
to leave their quarters, but now he only dreaded to think of
the task that lay ahead of him. After an unenthusiastic and
thus scarce breakfast he had looked around the rooms, and of
course the remains of last night had reminded him of his
Padawan's escapade and even more of his duty to reprimand him
for it. Only a few moments had sufficed for his temper to snap.
He had grabbed the game and nearly fled from the quarters. Once
outside he had taken a few deep breaths until he had calmed
down enough to think straight again. He had checked the game
and found a receipt inside it, telling him that Nas'Kie had
paid for it. That made him want to see that boy's Master first.
Qui-Gon didn't know Ralhenn Dilma very well. Nor Harfon
Apkorell, Calron's Master, for that matter. He would just
inform them about the events of the day before and be done with
the other boys. The only one he was concerned about was
Obi-Wan. And dealing with him would be hard enough. The short
walk to Dilma's quarters didn't help him a bit to sort out his
thoughts in this matter. Never before had he been forced to
take physical punishment into consideration. None of Obi-Wan's
rare former misdeeds had required this line of thought from
Qui-Gon. He had hoped this decision would never be placed
before him. Qui-Gon paused in front of the door of Dilma's
quarters, freeing his mind of his apprentice as best as he
could before hitting the chime.
A moment later a voice called out from inside. "Please enter.
The door is open." Qui-Gon found his fellow Master standing in
the middle of the room. The Foridean smiled at him, but the
smile didn't reach the dark eyes that stood out in stark
contrast to the light complexion of Dilma's face. Qui-Gon
didn't need the Force to notice the tension that filled the
room.
"Master Jinn. Greetings." Dilma bowed slightly and Qui-Gon
answered in kind. "I've been expecting you." The other man's
voice was gentle but Qui-Gon wasn't fooled by it. Dilma was
about ten years younger than himself, of a very slight build
and had the face of an angel, but he was renowned for his stern
nature if the Temple rumors could be trusted.
"Master Dilma. You already know." It was a statement, not a
question.
"I do, Master Jinn. Nas'Kie told me last night. No way he would
dare to hide the reasons for the violation of his curfew."
Qui-Gon wondered for a second if there was a hidden reference
to his relationship with Obi-Wan but Dilma didn't give him
enough time to pursue that thought. "Is that the game in
question?" Qui-Gon looked at the disc in his hands and then
nodded, suppressing the ironic remark he had in his mind. No
need to linger in Dilma's presence any longer than necessary.
What went on between him and his apprentice wasn't Qui-Gon's
concern. He handed the game over to the other man. Dilma went
on, "Is there any permanent damage in your quarters?"
"Nothing that couldn't be put right with a couple of hours of
work." Qui-Gon made sure that neither his voice nor his face
gave anything away. "Good day, Master Dilma." With that he
turned and left the quarters. Dilma didn't try to hold him
back. Outside, Qui-Gon felt as if a weight had been lifted from
his shoulders. The atmosphere in Dilma's rooms had been nearly
unbearable. It spoke of harshness and fear. A dangerous place
to live and teach. Or to live and learn.
Qui-Gon had to make a short stop on a public computer terminal
to find out where Master Apkorell lived. At the other end of
the Temple, of course, how could he have doubted? He made his
way there in under twenty minutes and was determined to keep
this second visit as short as possible too, as he reached for
the door-chime. The sight that greeted him when the door slid
open completely differed from the one in Master Dilma's
quarters. Master Apkorell and his apprentice were just about to
rise from the meditation mat in their living area as Qui-Gon
entered.
Although Master Apkorell was very old - up to two hundred
years, Qui-Gon believed - he had never come to know him more
closely. Like Qui-Gon himself, Harfon Apkorell was often away
from the Temple on long-term assignments or missions. Before
the human Master had a chance to greet the highly respected
Geldorian properly, said Master welcomed him with open arms and
a bright smile. "Master Jinn! What a pleasure to see you again!
Though I whish it was under more pleasant circumstances. But
whatever. Come in, have a seat. Have you eaten yet? The coffee
is still warm and my Padawan is a wizard in the art of baking."
Qui-Gon hadn't expected such a warm welcome and was so
surprised that he didn't even consider refusing the friendly
invitation. So he just bowed and greeted the other Master and
Calron. He seated himself in an armchair Master Apkorell had
pointed to, and waited for the old Master to return from the
kitchen when - to his renewed surprise - Calron humbly
approached him, his head respectfully bowed and his hands
tucked inside his sleeves. "Master Jinn?" the boy intoned.
"Yes, Calron?"
"Master Jinn, I'd like to apologize for my actions yesterday."
"Your apology is accepted, Calron," Qui-Gon replied and he
meant it.
"And I'd like to volunteer to help Obi-Wan clean up the mess we
left behind, Master Jinn," the youth continued without once
lifting his head.
Qui-Gon hesitated for a moment. He certainly hadn't foreseen
this. The boy seemed to be totally sincere and not doing this
on his Master's urging. He cleared his throat before he
replied. "That is a very generous offer, Calron, and I
appreciate it. Even so, I think Obi-Wan has to face this task
alone but I will tell him that you offered your help."
"Could you also tell him that I'm truly sorry?" the apprentice
asked and Qui-Gon assured him that he most certainly would
before he heard a small noise from the kitchen door. He turned
his head and saw Master Apkorell standing there with a tray in
his hands. The mild expression on the older Jedi's face told
him that he had listened to the better part of the
conversation.
Apkorell stepped forward and deposited the tray on the table
before Qui-Gon. He tenderly ruffled his apprentice's hair. "I
believe you have a class now, Padawan?" The youth yes,
mastered, bowed deeply towards Qui-Gon and was out the door.
Qui-Gon could easily feel the loving relationship between them.
"So, Master Jinn, that was quite the prank our three boys
performed yesterday, wasn't it?" the ancient Master said,
smiling and sitting down across from Qui-Gon.
"That's one way to put it, yes." Qui-Gon answered, equally
amused. "May I ask what you'll do in this matter?" The human
Master wasn't entirely sure this was a wise thing to ask but
now it was too late for second thoughts.
"Well, Calron took advantage of my off-planet assignment
yesterday night by exceeding his curfew by a couple of hours
and participated in playing a game not suited for his age. When
I returned in the early morning hours he confessed everything,
close to tears, I might add. He said you looked ready to kill
all three of them." The amusement didn't leave Master
Apkorell's voice and eyes while he spoke.
Qui-Gon smiled a little bitterly and took a sip of the indeed
excellent coffee. "I was rather shocked, I must admit."
Apkorell nodded sympathetically. "I see. I grounded Calron for
the next two weeks and will give him extra chores of the kind
he hates most, that's all. But I understand that Nas'Kie and
Obi-Wan are in more trouble, correct?" Three intelligent,
probing eyes fixed on Qui-Gon.
"Well, I just came back from Master Dilma's quarters and the
tone there wasn't exactly positive to put it mildly. But I have
no idea how he punished his apprentice for playing such a
game."
"And using his Jedi-powers to get it in the first place. That
is a quite serious offence," the Geldorian added. "I wouldn't
want to be in Nas'Kie's place right now."
Qui-Gon nodded thoughtfully and chewed on one of the delicious
pastries Apkorell had placed in front of him. The older Master
watched him intently, but not unkindly, and Qui-Gon wondered
what he was thinking right now. He was about to say something
but Apkorell forestalled him.
"Am I correct in assuming that you haven't decided on an
appropriate reprimand for Obi-Wan yet?"
Qui-Gon pondered for a moment if he really was that easy to
read or if Apkorell was just using the experience he had gained
in his long life. Probably the latter, Qui-Gon hoped. He slowly
nodded his head. "You are. He has never done anything
comparable before. He directly disobeyed me by ignoring my
command to study for his exam this morning." Apkorell nodded
understandingly and Qui-Gon continued. "I'm very disappointed
by his actions," he conceded.
"You want my advice? From one Master to another?"
Qui-Gon nodded and wondered to himself if this had been his
intention in starting this particular conversation to begin
with.
"Well," Master Apkorell began carefully, "I certainly can't
make this decision for you but in my experience - Calron is my
sixth apprentice now, after all - you have to let your Padawan
know how much he hurt you by his actions. If I'm not mistaken
you are very close to each other and he won't hate you for a
harsh correction."
Qui-Gon sighed inwardly. He had come to the same conclusion
himself. But this didn't make it any easier. He decided to
trust Apkorell even one step further. "Do you use physical
punishment on Calron, if you don't mind me asking?"
"As rarely as possible but if I decide to, he takes it without
a word of protest or complaint. Do you?"
Qui-Gon's comm-link cheeped and for once Qui-Gon was glad for
the interruption for it saved him from answering this
unpleasant question. "Jinn?" he said after fishing the device
out of one of his pockets.
"Windu here. Master Jinn, could you come up to the Council
chamber immediately?"
"Of course, Master Windu. My apprentice is having an important
exam right now. Is it strictly necessary to bring him?"
"No, you can inform him later. Windu out."
Qui-Gon pocketed his comm-link again. "I'm sorry, Master
Apkorell, but I fear I have to leave at once," he said,
standing up.
"No problem. Duty called you. Good bye, Master Jinn, maybe we
can talk another time," the Geldorian replied with a knowing
smile.
Qui-Gon smiled in return. "Qui-Gon, please. Good bye." And with
that he was out the door and on his way to the Council chamber.
Not even ten minutes later he arrived in the atrium, where the
Jedi were supposed to wait until they were summoned before the
Council, only to find Master Mon-Ahan and her apprentice there.
That was rather strange. He raised a questioning eyebrow
towards his friend, and Emjay just shrugged her shoulders and
lifted her hands palms up in an 'I haven't the slightest
idea'-gesture when a droid informed them they could enter the
chamber itself now.
Qui-Gon took in the familiar sight. The selected Council
members, sitting in a circle, perfect apart from the missing
chair that allowed the visitors to enter the center of the
gathering; the high windows, enabling a view outside onto the
city. No, the world of Coruscant - there was no way to differ
between the two. A spectacular view, breath-taking and
awe-inspiring even for the Jedi who had seen so many planets.
The bright center of the universe indeed. What better place for
the Council chamber, the center of the Jedi world. A focus of
the Force, despite the teachings about the Force being
omnipresent. Qui-Gon felt its power like the touch of a hand.
It was a guiding and comforting hand, at least to him.
Their steps in total synch, the two Jedi Masters stepped into
the circle and took their positions in the middle of it, Ruben
standing respectfully behind them. They faced the head of the
Council, Yoda, and bowed their heads in greeting. The old Jedi
Master gave them a nod. "Master Mon-Ahan, Master Jinn. News has
reached us, good news indeed. The Aurians, contact they made.
Negotiations finally will begin." Yoda's face nearly split with
a wide grin and Qui-Gon heard Emjay's sharp intake of breath.
The Jedi Master threw Mace Windu a questioning look. Windu's
dark face revealed nothing but Qui-Gon knew how pleased he had
to be.
Qui-Gon remembered their argument three days ago. Himself,
Windu and Emjay had discussed the Aurian issue at length,
divided in their opinions about what action to take. That was,
Qui-Gon had been divided from the other two Jedi. He had
challenged the Council's decision to just sit and simply wait
for the Aurians to make the first move. People were dying out
there. The Aurians inhabited three planets in the Outer Rim,
and civil war had broken out between the three factions. It was
a highly unstable situation, with alternating alliances between
the three planets. Following Mace Windu's advice the Council
had postponed the matter until a plea for mediation would be
issued eventually. Emjay obviously hadn't liked to take sides
against her friend but she'd agreed with Windu. Qui-Gon had to
admit Windu's arguments had been untouchable. But that fact
hadn't hindered Qui-Gon from doing exactly that.
"You know perfectly well, Master Jinn, that it is not Jedi
policy to interfere without being asked. Besides, our position
will be much stronger if the Aurians actually contact us for
help in negotiations." Mace Windu's voice was composed, but
Qui-Gon felt the suppressed irritation behind it. Windu had
ever hated to be challenged, especially by him.
Although Qui-Gon knew Windu was right, he wasn't prepared to
give up so easily. "But the situation is too volatile. Other
planetary systems might be affected. Why wait for the fire to
break out if you can prevent it?" He paced the room, struggling
to keep his temper in check.
"The future, uncertain it is." Qui-Gon whirled around to face
Emjay. He glared at his friend. Of course he was certain her
remark had only been intended to release the tension.
Nevertheless it angered him that she didn't share his opinion.
"Qui-Gon, you must see reason. Windu is right."
"Has the fact that Auria II is a slave world anything to do
with your views in this matter, Master Jinn?" That did it.
Qui-Gon felt his grip on his emotions slip and he turned to
face the Council member.
"Not more than Chancellor Valorum's reminder that the Aurian
planets are a major source for the mining of a certain
important spice!"
That had ended the discussion. Qui-Gon had regretted his words
as soon as they'd been out. He had apologized the day after and
no longer opposed the Council's decision. And now it turned out
that Windu's strategy had proven valid.
"This mission requires the attention of two experienced
Knights. The current alliance opposes Auria II against Auria I
and III. But the plea for mediation is shared by all three
planets. The Council agreed to my suggestion to send you,
Master Mon-Ahan and you Master Jinn." Qui-Gon stared at Windu
and after a few seconds he bowed his head. "You will leave in
two days. All necessary information you'll find here." He
handed the Jedi Masters two datapads. "Before you go, we will
have a final meeting. Tomorrow afternoon. I will meet you and
your apprentices at the fourth hour. Second conference lounge
in the third pylon."
Qui-Gon and Emjay bowed in unison again and left the chamber,
Ruben silently walking behind them. Outside Qui-Gon took a deep
breath.
"After all the time you've known him he still manages to
surprise you, doesn't he?"
Qui-Gon faced the smiling woman beside him. "I never doubted
his abilities as a politician and diplomat, Emjay."
"No, never." Her tone was clearly sarcastic now. She gave him
an intense stare and Qui-Gon thought that she could probably
tell he hadn't gotten much sleep last night. She definitely
knew him too well. "Why don't we discuss this further? I have a
few hours until my next meeting," Emjay suggested innocently
but Qui-Gon knew her true intention: Curiosity. He was sure
that denying her request and avoiding her would only increase
her inquisitiveness so he gave in to her petition.
"All right, Emjay, let's go to your quarters," he said,
entering the waiting car of the elevator.
"My quarters?" Emjay pressed while she punched in her
level-code. "What's wrong with yours?"
"They are a little... messy," he answered truthfully, knowing
that she would promptly see through any attempt to evade her
question. And there was absolutely no way he would start lying
to his friends now.
"So," she intoned mockingly "was it someone I know?"
"Obi-Wan, of course." The restless night had obviously taken
its toll on him, for he only got the meaning of her words after
he had answered her. Only years of strict Jedi-training
prevented him from slapping his hand to his forehead. How could
he have said something like that? That was grist to her mill.
He knew what she would say before she so much as opened her
mouth to speak.
"Really Qui-Gon. Don't you think he's a little too young for
this kind of activity? One should think Master Yoda would have
taught you better," she dished out, her face wearing a perfect
expression of serenity at that moment. Ruben - who had been
silent the entire time - now tried with only little success to
cover his laughter with coughing and only the opening
lift-doors saved him from a very displeased look from the tall
Jedi Master.
Qui-Gon himself couldn't even smile at the remark; the matter
was way too serious for that. And as the friend Emjay was, she
realized Qui-Gon wasn't in the mood for jokes of that kind and
changed her attitude accordingly. Somewhat. She was Emjay
Mon-Ahan, after all.
It seemed even Ruben had picked up his tune. As soon as they
reached Emjay's and his quarters he fetched a bag from his room
and excused himself for some extra training. Emjay smiled at
her apprentice thankfully and Qui-Gon noticed the fine usage of
the Force as Master and Padawan communicated along their bond.
The situation quickly turned into a set-up and when the doors
slid shut behind the departing young man, the trap closed.
Emjay threw Qui-Gon a triumphant look, obviously pleased to
have him at her mercy. He decided to do his best to come out of
this unscathed. Not for the first time he wondered about his
friend's ability to manipulate him. The thought that she was
even capable of outmaneuvering Yoda from time to time wasn't a
reconciling one. At least not now, as he had to face another
inquisition.
"Now, are we going to do some shadow-boxing or will you tell me
what happened straight away?" Under the scrutinizing gaze of
his fellow Master Qui-Gon wriggled like the literal mouse in
the trap before he decided to save them both a lot of time and
began a detailed report of last night's events. He was well
aware of the changing expressions on Emjay's features. It
turned from mild amusement to an open grin as he described his
Padawan's escapade and his own reaction to it.
"How rude of you to return to your quarters without a warning
note, Qui-Gon. Did no one ever tell you never to surprise your
apprentice - unless you'd like to be surprised yourself?"
Qui-Gon only raised an eyebrow, unable to make a retort to the
remark.
Emjay stifled a giggle, "Now come on! You are a lucky man,
after all. It took the boy more than a year to pull such an
outrageous stunt. Compared to Ruben... Well, I think my
apprentice holds the record there. You might remember. Two
hours after the Athinai my place was brimming with his friends.
It was the best After-Padawaning-party I ever witnessed. It
cost me some reputation with some of the Council members but
still..."
Qui-Gon interrupted her musings. "Obi-Wan is not Ruben, Emjay.
And I am not you."
"Why, ain't I glad of that?" his friend quipped.
"Really, Emjay, sometimes I am not sure if you're not taking
some weird kind of pride in Ruben's exploits." He stared at her
and she blinked at him in mock embarrassment.
"If pride were allowed for Jedi you would probably be right,
Qui-Gon." She gave up her pretense and crossed her arms. "Now
tell me, how did you punish him? That one qualifies for a
thorough thrashing, doesn't it?"
The Jedi shook his head, slowly. Emjay certainly had a very...
carefree way of approaching this particular subject.
"You haven't punished him yet?"
"There wasn't the opportunity. After the other boys had left he
was in no state for a proper punishment. I have to make sure
that Obi-Wan understands..."
"Qui-Gon, don't give me that crap. The boy did it big time last
night and he knows it. He understands. You may as well tell the
real story. It is you, Qui-Gon. You and your weird attitude to
corporal punishment."
"Weird attitude? So you call it weird when I don't like to
cause my apprentice pain?" Qui-Gon willed himself to be calm.
He definitely wasn't in the mood to argue with his best friend
right now.
Emjay groaned in frustration and slipped down from the table
where she had been sitting on in order to look down at Qui-Gon
for a change. She gave both of them some time to gather their
thoughts by moving into the kitchen, preparing something to
drink. She raised her voice somewhat so Qui-Gon could still
hear her.
"You know, Qui-Gon, it's not so different from what you do with
him in the exercises," she stated.
Qui-Gon frowned at that. "What do you mean?"
The female Master returned from the kitchen with two large
glasses of juice. "Here," she said, giving him one of the
glasses. "Ruben pressed it freshly this morning. He puts
something into it that actually increases its delicious flavor
but I have no idea what it is." Qui-Gon savored the feeling of
the cool liquid running down his throat. Ruben had made a
virtue of necessity and became a very talented cook in order
not to starve under Emjay's wing. She could burn water. If
Obi-Wan got even half as good as Ruben in this art, Qui-Gon
would consider himself a lucky Master.
"I meant," Emjay continued after taking a sip herself, "that
every time he doesn't parry one of your attacks with the
lightsaber fast enough, he earns a touch of your saber, my
friend. And in case you've forgotten how that feels, I can
refresh your memory: It hurts!"
Qui-Gon pondered that for a moment but then shook his head.
"No, Emjay, that's different. It's a matter of cause and
effect. Like if I don't watch my step, I fall and probably
scratch a knee or something."
"So? Then why do you not set the remote's laser-output so low
that it won't hurt him when he fails to block?"
The Jedi Master thought longer about this question and found
that he wasn't able to answer it properly. "I don't even know
if it's possible to set it that low," he finally conceded,
lamely.
"It's not, Qui-Gon," his friend informed him. "And you wanna
know why? Because nobody would actually set it
that low, because it would not serve its purpose if it didn't
hurt. Oh, and, by the way, I can quite clearly remember a time
a few years ago, when you had Ruben working on that remote and
actually adjusted the power so high there were tears in his
eyes every time he got hit. He was so sore I had to let him
rest the next day."
Qui-Gon brought his mind back to this particular incident.
"Emjay, he was absolutely paying no attention to my
instructions. His mind was elsewhere. He..." He wanted to
continue but the small woman interrupted him yet again.
"Force! Qui-Gon, I'm not questioning your motives! The point is
he learned his lesson that way! Since that day, he is always
with me when I try to teach him something. Well, at least, in
the gym..." she narrowed it down with a smile on her face.
Qui-Gon didn't reply to that, just sat there, deep in thought
until Emjay decided the silence had been long enough. "Qui-Gon,
you and I have always been honest with each other, haven't we?"
Qui-Gon looked up at her and nodded, a little puzzled as to the
change of subject. "Okay then, tell me, in your honest opinion.
Do you think Ruben and I have problems with each other or that
our bond isn't strong enough or anything?" she demanded.
Qui-Gon sighed. This question had been due since the beginning
of their discussion. "No, Emjay, you and Ruben are perfectly
matched. You know how I think in this matter, although I know
how... frequently you use this sort of discipline. But still:
Ruben is not Obi-Wan."
Emjay threw her arms in the air and mimed tearing her hair out.
"Yes, and Yoda is not Mace Windu and Mace Windu is not a blue
mouse. Why do you always have to be so stubborn, Qui-Gon Jinn?"
There was desperation in her voice now but Qui-Gon knew that
she was a long way from being defeated. She was just getting
started. "Don't you see that you are tormenting the boy by
letting him flounder like this?"
That got Qui-Gon's attention. "Letting him flounder? I don't
understand."
Emjay stopped pacing and sat down again. "First of all, this
punishment hangs over his head and he doesn't even know what to
expect. And this is the worst thing you can do to him. Ask
Ruben if you don't believe me. Second of all and probably more
important, we have a mission-briefing tomorrow afternoon! And
all the two of you can think about is this damn incident. For
Force's sake, Qui-Gon, get it over with!" She paused for a
moment, before adding more calmly: "I know, there really wasn't
the time to do it so far but you shouldn't delay it further.
Don't make me quote Yoda and his wise phrases about the future,
the past and the present."
The last remark forced a smile from Qui-Gon. Like it or not,
Emjay was definitely right in this point. He glanced at the
chronometer and winced slightly. "Force, I need to get back!"
he said, rising. "Obi-Wan will be home from his exam by now."
Emjay walked him unnecessarily to the door and he turned to her
before leaving. "Thank you, Emjay, for everything."
She looked up at him, almost sadly. "Do it, Qui-Gon. From what
I know of him, he expects it. And when you do, don't do it
half-heartedly. That would only hurt him more in the long run,
okay?"
Qui-Gon lingered a moment longer to think some more. Finally,
he just shook his head once more slowly. "I'm still not sure
what to do, Emjay, sorry." He left when she nodded. She had
certainly helped him to the best of her knowledge.
As he had expected, his apprentice was already back in their
quarters. As the door opened to his touch, Qui-Gon found
Obi-Wan on his knees in the living area, picking up the litter
and putting it in a plastic bag. The Padawan lifted his head
and sat back on his heels, looking at his Master expectantly.
His face was strained with tiredness and his eyes a little
bleary. The exam must have drained his apprentice's last
reserves.
"Obi-Wan! How did the test go?" Qui-Gon walked towards the
couch and sat down on it. Obi-Wan put the bag down and placed
his hands on his knees.
"It was hard, at first. I nearly panicked when I read the
questions. My mind seemed to have been robbed of everything
we'd gone through last night. I spent half an hour staring at
the screen." Obi-Wan closed his eyes shortly. "Then I forced
myself to relax. It didn't help much, but when I re-read the
tasks I found something that I remembered, vaguely. Maybe that
was the start I needed."
"So?" Qui-Gon had felt the relief in his Padawan just after
he'd entered the room. He knew Obi-Wan was satisfied with what
he had achieved.
"I managed to answer all the questions. Barely in time, and I
only typed in notes at the end, but I answered everything."
Qui-Gon was content that Obi-Wan's mind was free of pride or
triumph. He was just glad he'd put the exam behind him.
"Very well, Obi-Wan. It will be interesting to see the
results."
"Master Nefr promised to have them out in two days, maybe even
tomorrow night." Obi-Wan picked up the bag again and resumed
his former activity. Then he stopped again. "Master?"
"Yes, Padawan?"
"Thank you for your help. I never would have managed without
you. And I promise..."
"Don't, Obi-Wan. You gave me your apologies and your promises
last night, over and over again. Though we are not through this
yet. I've seen Calron's and Nas'Kie's Masters. Both have been
punished for their actions." He studied his apprentice intently
and could easily sense his student's nervousness. Obi-Wan
opened his mouth but shut it again, keeping his silence. Emjay
had been right. He was waiting for Qui-Gon's decision in this.
But still he wasn't sure which path he should follow. Instead
he bought himself some time and continued. "Calron was home and
he wants you to know he is truly sorry. He even offered to
assist you in cleaning up the mess. I declined the offer."
"Thank you, Master, for letting me know. It does... help."
Obi-Wan's voice was very low and nearly became a whisper when
he went on, "Have you seen Nas'Kie?"
Qui-Gon shook his head. "No, Padawan, he wasn't in his
quarters. But I know for sure he won't forget last night
either."
"I know that too, Master. He told us about his Master more than
once." Qui-Gon was unsure how to interpret this and reached out
with the Force to explore his apprentice's emotions. Was it
fear of punishment or - as Emjay had suggested - insecurity
about what to expect? More and more of what he saw and felt
supported his friend's opinion. However, Qui-Gon refused to
follow her advice so easily. He had to be sure. So much
depended on this. The Jedi Master feared risking the personal
bond that existed between him and his apprentice. Although it
seemed to be the perfect moment for announcing the penance,
Qui-Gon broke out of this tight spot by changing the subject.
"Obi-Wan, Calron and Nas'Kie are of no concern us any longer.
There are other matters that need our attention." Clearly he
felt Obi-Wan's confusion and he cursed inwardly. Qui-Gon didn't
like what he was doing to his Padawan, but he was unable to
handle this in any other way.
"Master Mon-Ahan, Ruben and I were summoned by the Council this
morning. In two days we leave for a mission to the Outer Rim."
Qui-Gon watched as a bright sparkle made its way to Obi-Wan's
big, tired eyes. News of a new mission was always good news for
his restless Padawan. Then something strange happened. He
sensed how joyful anticipation and curiosity changed into pure
sadness and remorse in only one second. It took the Jedi Master
a few moments before he realized what had caused this drastic
change in Obi-Wan's emotions. His apprentice suspected he would
be left home for this mission as a part of his punishment.
"How interesting, Master," Obi-Wan eventually answered in a
hoarse voice and Qui-Gon perceived how close his apprentice was
to tears again. That had most certainly not been his intention;
normally the prospect of a new mission cheered him up. Obi-Wan
kept his mental shields on a normal level at the moment and so
Qui-Gon could feel just how much leaving him behind would hurt
his apprentice. Odd, how that seemed to be the worst punishment
for Obi-Wan and he, Qui-Gon, hadn't even once thought about it.
Maybe Emjay was right and the discomfort of a beating wasn't
nearly as painful for his Padawan as he thought. Maybe he had
been more occupied by the pain that he himself would experience
than the pain Obi-Wan would. Qui-Gon felt like groaning in
frustration but restrained himself. Jedi didn't show signs of
frustration, no matter what the situation.
The long silence seemed to have convinced Obi-Wan that his
suspicions about being left behind were correct; he had turned
away again and was now scrubbing the light blue carpet.
Qui-Gon's heart ached at the sight, Obi-Wan was the embodiment
of misery and he decided he couldn't leave him one second
longer in this false presumption. "Obi-Wan, join me on the
couch for a minute," he bade his apprentice. Reluctantly,
Obi-Wan did as he was told, expecting only to get the
affirmation for what he thought was his punishment. When seated
on the couch beside him, Qui-Gon gently laid an arm around the
young man's shoulders. "Master Windu awaits the four of us in
the second conference lounge at four tomorrow, Padawan."
Obi-Wan needed a few seconds to process this information and
the wave of hope that swept along their bond was all the
ratification Qui-Gon needed to know that he was doing the right
thing. "So... You mean... I may come?" the youth asked
cautiously. "You're not going to leave me here?"
Qui-Gon barely stayed serious at the hope Obi-Wan was
broadcasting. But nothing of his struggles showed on his face
or in his voice when he answered his Padawan's question. "No,
Padawan, I'm definitely not. Nothing you did warrants such a
harsh and cruel disciplining. We might very well be away for
several months."
Obi-Wan managed a "Thank you, Master," before the very relieved
young Jedi swung his arms around his Master and hugged him
thankfully. Obi-Wan calmed down quickly and eagerly carried on
his carpet-cleaning task. Qui-Gon was glad that he hadn't
asked. He still wasn't entirely sure what to do. He left
Obi-Wan alone with his chore and settled down at the kitchen
table to study the mission-details Mace Windu had given him. He
was quite familiar with the situation on Aurian so it didn't
take him long to learn about the facts.
During his studying he felt Obi-Wan's shy gaze on him more than
once but the youth didn't dare to ask. After some time Obi-Wan
was finished with the room, had cleared away the utensils he
had needed and obviously had no idea what to do next since all
his classes had been canceled. The Jedi Master's conscience
didn't allow him to torment his apprentice any further. They
might as well get it over with and concentrate on the mission
ahead. Just as Emjay had suggested, he realized with a sigh. He
hoped imploringly that she and Master Apkorell were right in
their evaluation of his and Obi-Wan's bond.
When Obi-Wan had sat down at the table as well and was now
sipping carefully from a glass of milk, mindful of his
stomach's condition. Qui-Gon inhaled deeply, laid his datapad
aside, and took one last long look at his apprentice to make
sure he had come to the right conclusion. Obi-Wan had noticed
the change in his Master and watched Qui-Gon intently, knowing
what was going to come now. And so it did. Qui-Gon decided to
follow the tradition as Master Yoda had done with him.
"What will you be punished for, Obi-Wan?" the Jedi Master
demanded, cutting straight to the point.
A slight wince, no more. Obi-Wan didn't cast his eyes down.
"For disobeying you, for taking advantage of your being away,
for playing a game I was not allowed to play, and for mouthing
off at you," the young Jedi stated firmly, his voice not once
shaking. He obviously had thought about that a lot and Qui-Gon
was suddenly glad to leave this behind them.
"These are severe misdemeanors, Obi-Wan, I hope you know that.
I'm especially disappointed by your open disobedience towards
me," Qui-Gon said sternly.
"I know, Master; I am sorry. I will accept any punishment you
see fit and I am more than grateful that you won't leave me
behind for the upcoming mission."
The Jedi Master took another deep breath before he continued
with the formal rendition. "This was by far the gravest misdeed
on your part since you have been my Padawan and I want you to
know that the decision about an appropriate penance wasn't an
easy one. However, after thorough consideration of the matter I
came to the result that - to my great displeasure - corporal
punishment can't be circumvented this time. You're going to
receive a caning, my Padawan." Saying this had been very hard
and Qui-Gon was glad that nothing had reflected in his voice.
Obi-Wan flinched ever so slightly, then nodded. "Yes, Master, I
didn't expect anything else."
Nor did Emjay. Or Apkorell. Qui-Gon had feared this moment for
years. Not only since he had taken Obi-Wan as his apprentice,
but since the time he'd lost Xanatos. And after all his
struggling with this painful issue his apprentice just sat
there and all he said was, "I didn't expect anything else."
Moreover, the feelings that Qui-Gon received from his Padawan
revealed that Obi-Wan was much calmer now.
His apprentice's reaction to Qui-Gon's 'major revelation'
should have destroyed the Jedi Master's worries and scruples
but he refused to let go of an attitude he had nurtured over so
long a time so easily. There was still the punishment itself to
be considered. Telling Obi-Wan was one thing. Doing it was
another. Neither he nor his apprentice had any experiences
there. Of course Qui-Gon had undergone corporal punishment as
Yoda's Padawan, but he couldn't go by his own memories. It had
been too long ago, and Yoda had used the cane on him very
rarely. Very rarely indeed. And he had been years older than
Obi-Wan was now.
He studied his Padawan who had fallen silent again. Obi-Wan was
so young, looked so vulnerable. However, when their eyes met
this impression vanished abruptly. Obi-Wan was sure about the
rightfulness of his correction. Qui-Gon remembered how
accurately his apprentice had listed his violations. Of course,
there was a small part in him that shrank away from the thought
of the penalty that lay ahead of him. But that seemed only to
stem from the fact that it would be his first encounter with a
cane.
The Jedi Master drew strength from what he saw and felt in
Obi-Wan. If his Padawan could face it, so could he. He had to.
And the silence between them had already lingered too long.
"Padawan, you need some rest before I can execute your
punishment." Qui-Gon watched his apprentice closely, determined
to monitor every reaction to his words. "We will eat now and
then you'll get some sleep. You are way too exhausted for a
caning." Getting out the last sentence without hesitation
hadn't been easy for the Jedi Master, but he was well aware of
the necessity of it. No more doubts. Not anymore.
"Yes, Master." Obi-Wan looked around the kitchen and turned to
face his Master again. He bowed his head. "I fear we have to do
some shopping before..."
"Don't worry about that, Obi-Wan, I will restore our supplies
after we've eaten. For the time being, I will order our lunch
from the cantina. I don't want to run around the Temple with
you in tow in your weak condition." While speaking, Qui-Gon had
risen from his chair and walked over to the comm-link. Out of
the corner of his eye he saw the grimace on Obi-Wan's face as
he mentioned the cantina. "The cantina-food won't cost you your
life. Consider it part of your punishment." Had there still
been any doubt about Obi-Wan's improved mood it would have been
eradicated by the small grin that showed on his apprentice's
face.
"I understand, Master. Thank you for sharing my punishment."
Those words held more truth than Obi-Wan could know and Qui-Gon
was glad that he could busy himself with the order, thus saving
him from answering. Somehow this wasn't at all as he'd
expected. Instead of being forced to deal with a devastated and
terrified apprentice, his Padawan was nearly in high spirits
while he fought demons from his past and doubted his abilities
as a teacher. He should review his attitude in this. A little
voice inside his head, sounding strikingly like Emjay's,
informed him that he was probably right about that.
He activated the comm-link and after the connection to the
cantina was established, Qui-Gon listened to the computer voice
that guided him through the ordering procedure and then stated
his species and preferences in the diet. "Expect the delivery
in ten minutes." Qui-Gon disengaged the link and turned to his
apprentice who had just finished his milk and brought the empty
glass to the sink. Apparently Obi-Wan's stomach was willing to
resume its duty.
"Padawan, please lay the table. Lunch will be here in a couple
of minutes." With that he left the room and returned with a
datapad. He took in the empty shelves in the kitchen. He was
tempted to key in "everything" but that wouldn't do for a
shopping list. With a sigh he started listing the supplies they
would need to buy. Since they were leaving the Temple for
several weeks they wouldn't need that much.
The delivery droid arrived and Obi-Wan placed several boxes
onto the table and the two Jedi sat down for their meal. The
food wasn't nearly as bad as Qui-Gon had feared and his
apprentice showed his normal behavior when something to eat
came in visible range. Bite after bite disappeared into his
mouth, only interrupted by several yawns, and it wasn't long
before not a morsel was left on the plates. The Jedi Master
refrained from making any remark and the meal ended in an
agreeable silence.
"Obi-Wan, you may go to sleep now. I'll do the washing up,"
Qui-Gon said as Obi-Wan yawned for the fifth time within two
minutes.
"Yes, Master. Thank you." Obi-Wan wiped his hands on the
serviette and placed it on his plate. He stood, bowed to his
Master and disappeared from the kitchen.
As soon as Qui-Gon heard the door to Obi-Wan's room close he
took the datapad from his pocket. He stared at it intently;
there was one item he hadn't keyed in. There was no need. No
way he could forget it. He was in need of a cane. He returned
the pad to his pocket and cleared the table. It took him only a
few minutes to clean the dishes.
In his own room he put on his cloak, made sure he had his
credit card with him and prepared to leave the quarters. At the
door he stopped and then he walked with decisive steps to
Obi-Wan's door. He entered, silently, and found his apprentice
curled up in his bed, tightly wrapped up in the blanket. The
Jedi Master knelt down beside the bed and reached out with the
Force. He found his Padawan at ease; the restlessness that had
marked throughout him the whole morning had completely
vanished. His breaths came regularly, his mouth was slightly
opened. Just as Qui-Gon rose to leave saliva trickled from
Obi-Wan's mouth and the Jedi Master wiped it away with his bare
hand tenderly. Obi-Wan swallowed and closed his mouth,
strengthening his hold on the blanket even more. Qui-Gon
smiled; he could leave now without having to worry.
Not even an hour later Qui-Gon returned to his quarters, a
small droid hovering besides him, carrying all the supplies he
had bought. On his shopping tour he had had some time to think
about the matter and he now was sure that he really had fussed
about it too much. A few months ago he had read an internal
Temple statistic stating that in ninety-five percent of the
Master-Padawan relationships, corporal punishment was more or
less frequently used. And as long as the physical punishment
didn't turn into abuse - which actually had happened once only
some eighty years ago - the risk that the apprentice couldn't
handle it and would turn to the dark side was infinitesimal. So
if the others could do it, so could he. He had to concentrate
on Obi-Wan now, not on his own unsubstantiated concerns.
He sent the droid on its way, quickly put away their new
supplies and was out the door again. A quick gathering of the
Force told him his Padawan was still sound asleep. The lucky
one. Without a long calming meditation Qui-Gon was sure he
wouldn't be able to sleep now. Meditation. That was it. He
would meditate on the matter as soon as he returned from the
storage facilities. He had to do something about his own
growing fatigue, anyway.
Once he arrived at the Jedi-supply section of the Temple he
first gathered three new, bigger tunics for Obi-Wan. The boy
outgrew his clothes at an amazing speed at the moment and if
they really were away for a few months he definitely would need
the new tunics. He picked one for himself, too. Just in case.
He willed back the lump in his stomach when he approached one
of the droids for help. This whole situation was becoming more
ridiculous every second. He really was projecting too much into
the matter.
"Can I be of service, Master Jinn?" the helpful droid asked the
perfect display of Jedi serenity before him.
Qui-Gon quickly cleared his throat. "Yes, I need an instrument
to execute physical punishment on my apprentice." That went
well. Qui-Gon was sure only half an hour ago he would have said
something along the lines of: 'I need an apprentice to
physically punish my instrument.'
"Please specify your request," the droid replied.
"A cane would do nicely," he answered the question easily,
having expected it. The droid hovered to another section of the
huge room, making Qui-Gon follow him.
"How old and of what species is your apprentice, Master Jinn?"
"Human and he's fourteen." Great, Qui-Gon thought, so
this thing knows who I am but not who my apprentice is? Who is
programming these droids, anyway?
The droid presented about a dozen different canes and rods
before him, pointing one out. "For this age we usually
recommend this one. It is thin and strong enough to open skin
when used twice or more on the same spot, but won't scar the
flesh or leave any other kind of permanent mark." Qui-Gon felt
a short wave of disgust run through him in regard of the large
variety of these particular instruments of training. He
wondered cynically for a second if his search for a 'how to
most effectively beat my apprentice'-course would be crowned
with success before he willed this counterproductive thought
aside. This is not an evil thing, he reminded himself,
just a necessary one and it is part of my duty as Obi-Wan's
Master to do this if he needs it. "Sir?" The metallic voice
of the droid pulled him out of his cogitation.
He cleared his dry throat again. "Yes, this one will do, I
think." He took the cane out of the droid's offering hands and
silently thanked the inventor of the long Jedi cloaks which
allowed him to let the instrument disappear inside it.
Qui-Gon made a last stop on his way home. Master Mon-Ahan's
quarters again. He wanted to let her know before she would come
and ask. Which she would. He heard the door-chime inside and
Emjay's somewhat muffled "Come." The doors opened and Qui-Gon
almost took a step back at the incredible smell that welcomed
him. Obviously Ruben had indulged in his hobby again. It really
wasn't that hard to tell, even apart from the delicious aroma.
The living room table was covered with plates and dishes,
filled with culinary specials Ruben had prepared in the
kitchen. He and his Master were somehow sprawled across the
sofa together, munching on something, and memorizing the basic
information about their upcoming mission. It was a perfect
display of peace between Master and apprentice.
"Qui-Gon. Come in, have a seat. I have to admit I was expecting
you," Emjay greeted him, swallowing the mouthful of whatever
she had been eating.
The Jedi Master stepped further into the room to let the doors
close behind him. He let out a heavy breath. "Well, Emjay, I
just wanted to let you know that I will do it." Qui-Gon refused
to say anything more specific as long as Ruben was within
hearing distance. But he needn't have to worried. Both Emjay
and Ruben were getting up from their comfortable positions.
Emjay slowly walked over to Qui-Gon until she was standing
before him and lifted her head to meet his eyes. Meanwhile,
Ruben had put on his cloak and passed them on his way to the
door.
"I'm going down to the shops. We're running out of coffee. Can
I bring you something, Master Jinn?" Ruben had turned and
looked at him politely.
Qui-Gon gave him a thankful smile. "No, but thank you very
much, Ruben."
Ruben nodded and was almost out the door when his Master's call
made him stop and look back expectantly. Emjay had turned a
little, raised her right hand, and was making a 'come here'
gesture with her index finger. Without hesitation Ruben walked
obediently back to her and came to stand directly in front of
his Master, looking just a little confused. Qui-Gon couldn't
help but smile as he watched how Emjay wrapped her apprentice's
Padawan-braid tightly around her left hand and pulled Ruben
down a few centimeters. She caressed his left cheek with her
right hand and gently kissed his forehead. "Thank you," she
whispered, barely audible to Qui-Gon. "You're an angel." She
let go of his braid and Ruben lingered a second longer in the
caress before he straightened himself and went to get the
coffee. Although Qui-Gon wasn't at all sure that they were in
actual need of coffee. He probably had just made it up in order
to give the Masters some privacy.
"You know, Emjay, he really is an angel," Qui-Gon said with a
smile when the doors had closed yet again, kindly shaking his
head. "An angel," he continued, "who - according to his record
- is almost ineducable, a problem child, with a major problem
with authority. And yet you have him eating out of the palm of
your hand."
Emjay smiled cryptically. "Thank you. This is my little secret,
dear."
"Don't be too modest. Without you it would've been the
AgriCorps for him."
"No, the mining facilities on Rewt II, but don't tell him," she
said ruefully. "However, you haven't come here to discuss my
Padawan, Qui-Gon. You're here for my advice since you haven't
the slightest idea how to use that cane you're hiding under
your cloak."
Qui-Gon's mind was stuck for a few seconds on the image of
Ruben serving in a mining facility. Force, what a thought! He
only slowly returned his mind to the present, not even
bothering to wonder how she'd found out about the cane. She was
a Jedi Master, after all. He nodded sadly, his intentions
revealed quite accurately.
Emjay took a deep breath and ushered him towards the couch.
"It's quite simple as long as you keep a few things in mind,
Qui-Gon," she began. "The back of his thighs, his ass, and his
upper back. Never, repeat, never his lower back!
And be more than careful not to hit his spinal column, okay?"
Qui-Gon nodded confirmation and the female Master went on. "And
with all this you have to take into account that he might
flinch away. Fiercely! Make it clear to him that he has to stay
perfectly still and in place. And, no," she started to explain
when she saw his skeptic look, "this is not about control, this
is about safety. You might really hurt him if he moves away at
the wrong moment. This once almost happened to me. Ruben heard
the hiss of the cane and unconsciously jumped aside. I almost
amputated his right ear. Thank you very much. So be very aware
where you're aiming, my friend," she finished.
Qui-Gon was lost in his thoughts for a minute, then nodded
absent-mindedly. He seemed to do that a lot lately. But it had
been a good decision to come here. He got up from the couch.
"Thank you, Emjay."
"You will perform the Vannay afterwards, won't you?"
"Of course."
Now it was Emjay's turn to nod thoughtfully and he left without
another word. He met Ruben at the door - coffee in his hands -
and remembered where this promising young man would have wound
up if it hadn't been for Emjay. Out of a sudden urge he gently
squeezed Ruben's shoulder before he went on.
Qui-Gon was deep in his planned meditation when he more sensed
than heard Obi-Wan coming out of his room and joining him
wordlessly on the mat. He felt the familiar and welcome touch
of his apprentice's mental fingers at his shields and willingly
lowered them, letting his apprentice participate in the special
technique he had chosen for this particular occasion. He half
expected to be struck by a mental turmoil but was very
pleasantly surprised to find Obi-Wan quite calm and collected.
The amount of fear in his Padawan he had felt earlier had grown
a little, though, but that didn't come as a surprise. Qui-Gon
remembered his own feelings when Yoda had first chosen to cane
him and could only respect Obi-Wan for his self-assurance.
With a slight mental nudge he brought himself and his Padawan
back on track and together they shared the elevating experience
of freeing their minds. It was like running in total accordance
along an unknown, but all the same familiar path. No turn, no
twist took them by surprise as they headed without conscious
acknowledgment. The focus of their beings. It took an eternity
to get there, but time wasn't the issue. They enjoyed every
mental step towards it and when they finally reached their
chosen destiny it seemed they had been there all their lives.
And now even this thought vanished and they displayed the total
embodiment of peace. Not moving, not thinking, not feeling,
being together, but still alone, alone, but not lonely. The
road they'd taken had brought them to an end, an end that was a
beginning.
During his meditation he had realized exactly what the
difference between setting the remote to a painful level and a
caning was: In a caning his own hand - extended by the cane -
would cause his Padawan discomfort. And, of course, the jolt of
a missed remote-shot wasn't anywhere near as painful as the
cane would be.
Qui-Gon took a deep breath when the first conscious thought
brought him back to his surroundings. A quick check with the
Force made sure that his apprentice followed him out of the
trance state. He opened his eyes, blinked a little, and with a
start realized that it was late afternoon already. He slowly
rose to his feet, carefully avoiding any abrupt movements. His
mind mirrored his physical stretching, body and soul in total
harmony. Qui-Gon faced Obi-Wan and at the same time he faced
what he was going to do now.
A flicker of doubt lit up in his mind, like a dying flame he
could see from the corner of his eye. It was extinguished
before he could get hold of the thought and he knew that he was
prepared now. "Obi-Wan?"
"Yes, Master?" He didn't need to hear his apprentice's steady
voice, nor the unguarded look in his eyes to affirm Obi-Wan's
readiness; he had already confirmed this certainty along their
bond. Here and now was the right place and time.
He stretched out his right arm, offering his Padawan a helping
hand. It was a symbolic gesture, of course, but Obi-Wan took
the hand and pulled himself up, at the same time sending out
feelings of thankfulness and trust.
"We will begin your punishment now," Qui-Gon stated when
Obi-Wan stood erect and relaxed in front of him. His mind was
still trained on the mental output of his apprentice, and the
surge of insecurity and fear running through Obi-Wan hit him
full force. Any other reaction to his words would have
surprised and worried him. Only a fool would show no fear at
the prospect of pain. Obi-Wan was no fool.
For a split second Qui-Gon was tempted to hide himself behind
walls of sarcasm, as he had done when he had fetched the cane.
But he was a practical man and he hadn't spent several hours in
meditation just to run back to where he had come from.
"Padawan, I will be with you. Always remember who is causing
you this pain." Those words came out of nowhere, without
Qui-Gon looking for them. Before the meditation he had tortured
his brain over what to say and do, but now everything lay
before him. In total light, no shadows cast.
"Master, I do not fear you or my rightful penalty." Qui-Gon
almost smiled at the brave lie when he realized that Obi-Wan
was quoting a line of the punishment ritual.
It became obvious to the Jedi Master that his student wanted to
do this by the guide lines the ancient Jedi code prescribed.
Qui-Gon wasn't planning on depriving his apprentice of this
source of strength when it would support him in undergoing what
would follow. Knowing he was doing the right thing for Obi-Wan,
he straightened himself and transubstantiated to the distant,
serene Jedi Master his Padawan needed him to be for the task
that lay ahead of them. "Very well, Obi-Wan, you already
enumerated your violations so you know what you are being
beaten for."
"Yes, Master." In spite of Obi-Wan's calm voice, Qui-Gon read
the underlying angst in his apprentice.
"Then remove your clothing, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon ordered.
Obi-Wan let out a shuddered breath, avoiding his Master's gaze,
and followed Qui-Gon's wish. The Jedi Master made sure his
mental shields weren't too tight in order to be constantly
aware of Obi-Wan's emotions. The most dominant one at the
moment, of course, was fear. Fear of the pain his Master was
going to inflict.
Qui-Gon noticed the distinct feeling of pride growing inside
him as he observed how bravely his Padawan faced his forfeit.
If it weren't for their bond, Qui-Gon would have had a hard
time detecting any signs of anxiety in his apprentice at all.
An outsider would miss the indications completely, Qui-Gon was
sure. He debated momentarily letting Obi-Wan know how proud he
was of him right now, but discarded the thought quickly. He
shouldn't disturb Obi-Wan in his concentration now.
Finally the last item of clothing was removed, and suddenly
Qui-Gon realized that he hadn't the slightest idea which
position Obi-Wan should take the beating in. Yoda had always
made him kneel; but the extreme difference in their heights had
been the main reason for his former Master's preference.
However, there was no time to consider every possible position.
No need to let Obi-Wan wait and increase his discomfort any
further. The Jedi Master quickly glanced around the room and
decided that his desk would have to do. It was kind of fitting
in an ironic way, too, for this had been the primary place of
Obi-Wan's insubordination.
Doing this successfully would require his full attention and
all of him - his heart, body, and soul - had to be present.
Live in the moment, feel the Force, he scolded himself. Qui-Gon
walked over to the wardrobe where he had neatly hung his cloak
after his return from Master Mon-Ahan's quarters. The
instrument was still fastened in its folds. Before he had
started the meditation his need to ignore the cane had been too
strong to overcome. No way he could have placed it somewhere
openly. He unfolded his cloak, removed the cane, then walked to
his Padawan.
Qui-Gon saw how his Padawan's gaze lingered timidly upon the
cane in his hands, but continued without letting it disturb
him. "Before I begin, Obi-Wan, you should know that you are not
to scream. I don't want to hear pleas nor begging but will
tolerate sounds of distress. Any violation of these directions
will only worsen your situation and prolong your punishment."
"Yes, Master." Obi-Wan's voice was strained but still firm.
"Do not, under any circumstances, move away from my descending
cane. Nor fight the pain you will experience. I want you to
fully acknowledge it."
"Yes, Master."
Qui-Gon held the instrument in his right hand. He ran the
fingers of his left hand along the surface. It felt cool and
smooth under his touch, wouldn't leave a splinter. A thought
flashed through his mind. How many? No, he wasn't able to
answer this question yet. He would know when his apprentice had
paid an appropriate price for his violations. Qui-Gon prepared
himself, undergoing a final flow of realizations. It was his
duty - whether he liked it or not - to discipline his
apprentice for his misdeeds, regardless of the fact that this
particular task would hurt his Padawan immensely.
"Bend over my desk, Padawan. Support yourself on your arms and
spread your legs a little. You'll need to stand as steady as
possible," Qui-Gon said, remembering that this was a first for
Obi-Wan also. Qui-Gon again acknowledged the anxiety in Obi-Wan
but refused to let it influence his determination. It would be
over in a few minutes and they would finally be able to move on
from this. He watched as his Padawan slowly but not reluctantly
took up the position in accordance with his Master's command.
Qui-Gon moved to stand behind his Padawan, turning a little to
the right. He raised his right arm, just above his head. Then
he brought the cane down, hard, in a precise and elegant
movement, accompanied by the usual hiss a cane produces. Almost
simultaneously with the impact of the instrument on Obi-Wan's
back Qui-Gon heard his Padawan's yelp of pain and surprise. The
young body winced sharply but remained in place. An angry red
mark almost instantly appeared on the younger Jedi's skin, just
below the right shoulder-blade. Qui-Gon raised his arm again,
in harmony with Obi-Wan's sharp, apprehensive intake of breath.
The Jedi Master made sure that he directed the second stroke a
little below the first one. Obi-Wan whimpered and Qui-Gon saw
his apprentice's entire body tense like a predator preparing
for a kill. Or a scared horse ready to run. Suddenly the Jedi
Master recalled Emjay's warning words. In consequence Qui-Gon
readjusted his aim towards Obi-Wan's other shoulder area and
directed the next two blows there with equal force; doing this
half-heartedly, Qui-Gon knew, wouldn't do. He acknowledged
Obi-Wan's hold on control with pride but - considering the
identical response to the beating on both sides of his back -
Qui-Gon didn't dare risk an accidental, evasive jump of
Obi-Wan's and therefore his new target was his Padawan's
buttocks. The Jedi Master had intended to avoid this particular
region of Obi-Wan's anatomy, but four strokes certainly
wouldn't suffice in disciplining a Jedi in training properly.
Although he could hear his apprentice's weeping he knew Obi-Wan
well enough to know that he could take a few more strokes
without crossing his threshold of endurance.
With the knowledge that he couldn't cause any substantial
damage on Obi-Wan's bottom, he increased his blows slightly in
both frequency and intensity in order to shorten his
apprentice's suffering. The shock of the sudden explosion of
fire on his backside made Obi-Wan throw his head back and he
caught himself at the last second from crying out loud. Qui-Gon
delivered more blows in a steady rhythm until there were four
nasty welts proving the accuracy of his precision. Each stroke
was as hard on Qui-Gon as the first; repetition did not make
this any easier. Nevertheless his hidden fear that Obi-Wan
wouldn't be able to deal with the fact that his Master had hurt
him in such a manner, and would reject him, had vanished.
Finally finished with his ungrateful task, Qui-Gon laid the
cane down on the couch-table, giving his apprentice some time
to catch his breath and regain some control of himself. He
first approached his Padawan when the tensed muscles in the
young man began to relax slowly. Careful not to touch the
freshly abused skin he turned Obi-Wan to get a quick glimpse at
the tear-reddened face before pulling the trembling and
sweating body into his arms. "All over, Padawan," he soothed
his student who was still panting. He let him be; Obi-Wan
needed the time to calm down and to process Qui-Gon's words
that it was over.
The crying had ceased when Obi-Wan eventually spoke. "Am I
bleeding, Master?" he asked, more composed now.
"No, Padawan, there are just some welts on your back and
bottom, no open cuts." Obi-Wan nodded and the Jedi Master
waited a few seconds before he suggested: "Shall we get you
into a more comfortable position?" He felt Obi-Wan's nod on his
shoulder and carefully lifted the young Jedi up to carry him
over to the couch where he laid him down on his stomach.
Qui-Gon met his student's eyes and there was only gratitude and
relief in them. No defiance or anger as he had feared. He
gently stroked Obi-Wan's head. "I'm going to get you something
to drink, Padawan," he said and his apprentice actually managed
a small smile.
The short time alone allowed Obi-Wan to quit crying completely,
Qui-Gon saw as he returned from the kitchen. "How are you
feeling, Obi-Wan?" Qui-Gon asked when he handed the youth the
glass of cold water which he gratefully accepted. He had pushed
up on his elbows and so was able to drink without spilling
anything.
"All right, I guess. But it hurt more than I had expected," he
admitted shyly.
"Then I hope I don't have to repeat this anytime soon,
Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon said gently, not wanting to scare his
apprentice.
"Certainly not, Master." And there was that happy smile again;
this time also reaching Obi-Wan's eyes. He really was all
right, Qui-Gon fancied.
"Let me know when you feel ready to start the meditation."
"Meditation?" Obi-Wan echoed, confused, wincing as he shifted
in his position.
"Yes, Padawan. I'm going to lead you through a technique
especially designed for these occasions. It's called the Vannay
and will take care of any mental wounds the punishment may have
left."
"Yes, Master," the Padawan replied in a tone Qui-Gon had
learned to interpret as: I don't have the slightest idea what
you are talking about, Master, but don't dare to ask because
the explanation will leave me even more clueless than I am now.
Obi-Wan took a few more sips of his water and then - though he
wasn't too happy about it - seemed to want to get it over with.
"We can start now, Master, if you like."
Qui-Gon nodded. "Can you kneel?"
Obi-Wan groaned at the prospect but nodded, slowly and
carefully raising himself up to kneel on the floor. He grimaced
when he carefully rested his bottom on his heels. The Jedi
Master nodded approvingly and knelt down next to Obi-Wan as his
apprentice liked it best. They lowered their shields to
meditative stance in unison, Qui-Gon letting his apprentice
know that all was truly forgiven now, and Obi-Wan, in response,
affirming that there really wasn't the slightest negative
feeling in him towards his Master as a result of the caning.
Qui-Gon gently led his apprentice to mentally re-experience the
punishment and was thereby able to discover which parts of it
had affected his Padawan the most.
The first turning-point Obi-Wan focused on was the moment he
had taken up the position for accepting the penance. It had
taken Obi-Wan a great deal of trust to lose the visual contact
with his Master and simultaneously acknowledge that he had
reached the point of no return. Qui-Gon channeled soothing
Force-energy towards this sore spot in his apprentice's memory,
letting him know how pleased he was at the display of Obi-Wan's
courage and acceptance.
The second point was, of course, the first blow. Along their
bond Qui-Gon could feel now that it really had been more
painful and shocking than Obi-Wan had expected. The Jedi Master
dug out the image and feelings of the first hit he had received
from Master Yoda and sent it affectionately to Obi-Wan, sharing
this particular personal memory with him and assuring him that
the first stroke is the hardest for everybody.
Qui-Gon was very satisfied with the Vannay thus far; Obi-Wan
was nowhere near the mental commotion the Jedi Master had
feared to encounter. He was collected and didn't hesitate to
move to the last element occupying his mind.
The long break following the eighth blow had left Obi-Wan
insecure, he had counted on at least another two strokes. He
had only understood that his penalty was over when Qui-Gon had
turned him around and told him so. Instantly, his uncertainty
had been replaced with relief. The Jedi Master let his Padawan
linger in this feeling before bringing them both out of the
trance.
"Again you did well, my young Apprentice," he stated. "You
tolerated the whole procedure with a Jedi's dignity and
serenity."
Despite his discomfort, Obi-Wan managed a weak smile at the
praise. "Thank you, Master."
"Go, take a shower. And then I'd like you to retire. This was a
straining experience."
Obi-Wan rose carefully, mindful of his abused flesh, but didn't
complain audibly. He disappeared into the bathroom and Qui-Gon
smiled knowingly at the sound of the softly running water, in
striking contrast to the powerful jet his apprentice usually
preferred. The tall Master knew from first-hand experience how
the water felt on the fresh marks.
Qui-Gon fetched the cane from the table and went into his
sleeping chamber, stowing it away. Odd, how his feelings
towards the instrument had altered in the last few hours from
disgust, to reluctant tolerance, to acceptance. Now he believed
he saw its true nature. Just another tool, utilized in
training, like a blindfold or the remote.
The Jedi Master poured himself a glass of juice and made
preparations to start working on the report he had intended to
write yesterday night, when his still dripping apprentice,
dressed in his sleeping-tunic, appeared in the living-area.
"Master?"
Qui-Gon thought for a moment about informing his Padawan for
the thousandth time how to use a towel properly but refrained
from it and instead only threw the puddle he was creating a
displeased look. "Yes, Obi-Wan?"
"Could I have something to eat before I go to bed?" he asked
cautiously.
Qui-Gon was kept from answering by the door-chime and after his
"come in", a heavily laden Emjay Mon-Ahan entered the room. "Hi
Qui, hi Obi, I brought you two some of our left-overs. Ruben
really overdid it this time. The food practically besieges our
quarters. We could start a charity-buffet with all this stuff."
She dropped the bags on the couch-table and stretched her back.
The tall Jedi Master merely raised an eyebrow at the hated
nickname. "Left-overs? The entire Council could feed on that
for a week, at least. But nevertheless, I believe Obi-Wan just
announced his appetite, so your timing is excellent as usual."
Emjay snorted. "Ruben's creations are far too valuable to waste
them on the Council. Besides, they have Mace to cook for them."
"Well, Emjay, they're certainly not wasted here," Qui-Gon
stated, noticing that Obi-Wan, obviously delighted at the
prospect of a meal a la Ruben, was already laying the table for
three. Although the Jedi Master wasn't happy about the further
delay, he deactivated his computer and sauntered over to the
couch, taking the half-full glass of juice with him.
Obi-Wan grabbed a large pillow from the couch and arranged it
on the floor before the table in order to make his sitting down
a little less unpleasant. When Qui-Gon comprehended what his
Padawan had in mind with the pillow, he stopped him. "I'm
sorry, Obi-Wan, but I won't allow you to use this cushion to
ease your discomfort. I told you before that part of the
punishment is accepting its consequences." Embarrassed that
Master Mon-Ahan had witnessed this rebuke, Obi-Wan put the
pillow back without a comment and knelt down on the floor ever
so carefully, his eyes cast down.
Seemingly oblivious to the short interlude between Master and
apprentice, Emjay joined them at the table, dubiously staring
at the displayed food. "It was very considerate of you,
Obi-Wan, to set for me too, but I really don't think I can eat
one more bite." She poured herself a glass of the juice the
young Jedi had fetched from the kitchen. "A drink will
suffice." The other two Jedi helped themselves and began
eating.
"Ruben and I did some background checking on the Aurian
system." She reached inside her tunic and produced a datapad.
"You can review it later. It's nothing spectacular. Not for the
Outer Rim, that is. But I thought I'd spare you the research."
Between two bites the tall Jedi managed a "Thank you," knowing
that both the food and the information were just a decoy to
cover up her true motives. The way she observed his apprentice,
kneeling upright on the floor while eating, spoke volumes.
Partly her inquisitiveness but mostly her concern for Obi-Wan
as well as Qui-Gon had led her here, and Qui-Gon knew his
friend well enough to know that she wouldn't leave until he
told her how it had gone. He himself had involved her in the
matter, so she deserved to learn about the outcome.
With a sigh of contentment and slight regret the tall Jedi
Master leaned against the back of the couch. "Emjay, send your
Padawan my everlasting gratitude. This was delicious, as usual.
If he ever wants to get rid of you, tell him he knows where to
find us. Wouldn't you agree, Padawan?"
Obi-Wan only nodded hastily, not bothering to look up, keen not
to interrupt his devouring. Both Masters chuckled. "No wonder
all Masters burdened with these little monsters stay slim. They
eat us out of house and home," Emjay complained. This time
Obi-Wan honored them with a slight grin.
"That's right. And furthermore we are expected to train and
teach them in our starved condition," Qui-Gon added.
His apprentice threw him a reproachful glare and said
pointedly, "I am full." His Master had an idea that Obi-Wan
wasn't only referring to his placated stomach.
"Leave the dishes, Padawan. You really should go to bed now,"
he smiled.
Good-mannered as he was, Obi-Wan acknowledged the presence of
another Master and bowed to them before leaving, receiving a
small wave from Emjay. "Good night, Master Mon-Ahan," Obi-Wan
said before focusing his attention on Qui-Gon. "Uh... Master?
Can I... uh... could you...?" the apprentice stammered shyly.
Qui-Gon, who had known the young man's request right away, took
pity on his student and supplied, "Tuck you in? Of course." He
rose and followed the adolescent.
Qui-Gon gathered the blanket and carefully covered Obi-Wan with
it after the youth had lain himself face down on the bed.
Wincing slightly, the apprentice said mockingly, "You know,
Master, for someone in your 'starved condition' there is still
a lot of force behind your blows. And I'm not talking capital F
here."
Although the Jedi Master could sense the relieved amusement in
his student he reassuringly began to stroke Obi-Wan's still
damp hair. "And for someone who had just felt that kind of
force you have quite the tongue in your head. And I am not
talking capital F, either." The smile following his words
displayed some ruefulness despite his teasing tone.
"It still stings, Master." And now all the humor had left
Obi-Wan's voice.
"That's the purpose of corporal punishment, Padawan. The pain
is supposed to inculcate the lesson into you." Qui-Gon bent
over and placed a soft kiss on the youth's temple. "Sleep now,
Obi-Wan."
The Jedi Master had almost reached the door when a thought
flashed through his mind. "Why are you in pain, Padawan?"
Obi-Wan shifted a little to look at his Master and pondered
over the question. "Because of my misdemeanor, Master."
"Excellent answer, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon said, leaving the room.
The Jedi Master re-entered the living area just in time to
catch Emjay red-handed fishing the last pieces of the Takerian
moisture cake out of a bowl. "So?"
The tall Jedi resumed his position beside his friend and
grabbed a handful of small round cookies. "So what?" he
retorted and began munching on the pastries.
"What do you mean, 'so what'? How did he take it?" Emjay asked
with growing impatience.
Qui-Gon smiled innocently. "If I recall correctly you said
something like 'I can't eat one more bite'?"
"Qui-Gon!" she all but yelled. "Your
changing-the-subject-strategy hasn't worked on me since when we
were fifteen and you persuaded me into broadcasting Yoda's
bathtub singing. That was most definitely the worst Padawan Day
in my entire apprenticeship."
"But it was also the most memorable for the whole Temple,"
Qui-Gon retorted, delighted that he had succeeded in
distracting her all the same.
"My knees start hurting just thinking about it; scrubbing the
entire seventeenth level on our hands and knees hadn't exactly
been on my agenda." She grimaced at the memory.
Qui-Gon looked at his friend absent-mindedly, his thoughts way
back in the past. "How come we never had sex?" He bit back a
grin at the shocked expression showing on her face for the
shortest time.
"Sex? With you? Yuck! Come on, Qui-Gon, that's gross!" Only the
people nearest to her would have recognized the disgust in her
face and voice as faked. Qui-Gon was one of them but he played
along, hanging his head in mock wounded pride. Both Masters
used the following silence to reminisce about their shared
past, until finally Emjay spoke up. "I guess we were just too
close for that."
Qui-Gon resurrected his old habit of changing subjects. "His
behavior was exemplary. Really, Emjay, it was a beating out of
the textbook. You were right, I have to admit. I gather he was
less nervous than me." He looked down at his hands in his lap,
avoiding Emjay's gaze, feeling a little uncomfortable.
"He's Jedi. He needs to understand his life is special. Every
action he takes will reflect back on the entire order. Force! I
sound like Mace!" Emjay threw her restless hands in the air and
waved them in agitation.
"You're right. You do sound like Mace. But that doesn't make it
any less true. And I believe he does understand. This is
probably one of the first things the apprentices learn. That
they differ from every other child, no matter what the species.
And the second thing they learn is that this is not always to
their advantage." Without a further comment Emjay stood up,
gently squeezed her friend's shoulder and left him alone with
his musings.
The Jedi Master had no intention of wasting his time thinking
about something unchangeable and instead busied himself with
preparing for their upcoming mission.
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