Hello! Welcome to the third installment of my Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan series! (the other two are on my profile- not really necessary to read them but it may explain some things and it's more to enjoy!) I hope you will enjoy reading this one as much as the previous two!

This follows on from Learning to Trust- still focusing on the strong father/son like bond exhibited by our (or my!) favourite Jedi! Expect plenty of angst and hurt/comfort as the two continue on their journey, overcoming insecurities and strengthening their relationship.

Disclaimer: I own nothing in the Star Wars universe!

Have fun!

In the Depths of my Mind

Chapter 1- Fear of Failure

(Jedi Temple- Coruscant)

Stretching, one arm covering a gaping yawn, thirteen year old Obi-Wan Kenobi, lay still for a couple of moments on his bed, waiting for the last vestiges of sleep to dispel and his surrounding bedroom to solidify. He only had a few classes today, advanced Piloting and Navigation being one of them he noted with a pleased expression. He was doing well in that class. Still- getting up this early from a nice comfy bed was sithly he inwardly groaned.

Sighing and forcing himself into a more awake state, the Padawan sat up, brushing a hand through his gingery-brown spikey hair and straightened his braid.

That was when something struck him as being… odd. Obi-Wan could not pinpoint the sensation at first and dug deeper into the Force in an attempt to identify it. There was something ... missing …

Frowning, Obi-Wan swung his legs over the side of his bed and got up, not bothering to change out of his bedclothes and left his room, using a gentle manipulation of the Force to open his door. "Master?" he called as he entered the main living room he and his Master, Qui-Gon Jinn shared. It was empty. Obi-Wan checked the kitchen, fresher and even subtly scanned his Master's bedroom, but all in vain- as there was no sign of the elder Jedi.

Glancing at his chrono, Obi-Wan noticed it was still early, just gone six in the morning. That was the time he usually rose, his Master too. Then where was Qui-Gon? Gently, he tested the training bond, the mental link he shared with his Master at the back of his mind. There was nothing serious being broadcast across it. The only feeling Obi-Wan could detect was that of contentment and wellbeing. Obviously there was nothing wrong and his Master had simply risen early and left.

Now not feeling unduly concerned, Obi-Wan headed to the fresher to get ready for the day ahead.

He left without leaving a note? Obi-Wan thought as he pulled on a fresh tunic and leggings, followed by his boots, mind still on the topic. However, he was loath to disturb whatever his Master was doing or plague him with infantile questions; and so the Padawan set about his morning tasks methodically and efficiently as he usually did, feeling the silence of the apartment keenly.

Finishing up his light chores, Obi-Wan headed back to the kitchen unit to grab something for breakfast. Chewing on a piece of his favourite fruit thoughtfully he wondered what his Master could have risen earlier than usual for.

Training…

Meditations…

Council Meeting…

For all three, Obi-Wan wondered why he had not been asked to attend. The first two he and Qui-Gon did everyday together. And the third- perhaps Qui-Gon was off on a mission without him? The thought struck Obi-Wan hard. It had been over a month and a half since their last mission together to Malrion, which had incidentally been their first mission as a Master- Padawan pair. After the turbulent mission, which had seen Obi-Wan take a severe injury to just above his knee, the pair had rested in the Temple ever since, allowing Obi-Wan to catch up with his studies and the two Jedi to train together.

I'm not holding him back am I…? Obi-Wan finished the fruit, the thought plaguing his mind. The injury to his leg had taken time to heal; he was only now getting full mobility back, the muscles having taken some considerable damage as well as mending the leg bone.

Having nothing else to do before class, Obi-Wan decided he might as well go and knock for his best friend Bant who was still living in the Temple. Quickly cleaning away any remnants of his breakfast, Obi-Wan picked up his bag from his room and headed for the front door.

So caught up in his own thoughts as he raised his hand to open the door, Obi-Wan didn't realise he had not opened it and very nearly walked into his Master, as Qui-Gon Jinn entered his shared quarters.

"Obi-Wan," the Master said, somewhat surprised at his Padawan's sudden appearance in the doorway. The boy also wore an astonished expression but recovered his senses enough to bow quickly and hurry stepped back to allow him access.

"Good morning Master," Obi-Wan replied with a smile as Qui-Gon bade him the same and walked past him, heading for the kitchen area. His face fell as he followed his Master. "I'm sorry- I've already eaten- if you would like me to-"

"I am capable of making my own breakfast Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon smiled at his attentive Padawan, raising an eyebrow as he rummaged through the cupboards.

"Yes Master," Obi-Wan agreed, lips twitching as he slid into one of the seats at the table, Qui-Gon joining him with his breakfast.

The two sat in comfortable silence as Qui-Gon ate and Obi-Wan looked over some of his notes for a class test he knew he had coming up later that day. He was not particularly worried about it; he thoroughly understood the material- and getting a good score would also reflect well on his Master.

At the back of his mind however, Obi-Wan was still burning to ask his Master where he had gone this morning. Though that would be rude, Obi-Wan decided. Qui-Gon had a right to privacy- and didn't have to tell him everything after all. If it was something important his Master would tell him. Obi-Wan was content in that thought.

"You remember we have a training session at 4 this afternoon in the main training hall?" Qui-Gon said, swallowing and breaking the silence.

Obi-Wan nodded.

"Good. I trust we won't have a repeat of last time?" though the words were said lightly, Obi-Wan picked up on the underlying concerned reminder in the older man's voice.

The last time Obi-Wan had been training, he had disregarded the healers' orders not to undertake strenuous physical activity and to allow his knee to recover properly. Obi-Wan had been in Lightsaber Class with his friends and had demonstrated a particular aerial move he had been waiting to practice, unable to do so without going against the healers and Qui-Gon's orders. But Obi-Wan was tired of being seen as weak. That had been his downfall.

*Flashback*

"Obi-Wan!" Bant's worried voice broke through the haze of pain as Obi-Wan struggled to keep back the greying vision that was encroaching on him.

"M'Fine," he muttered, trying to push himself upright on the mat.

Bant hurried over to where her friend was lying sprawled on the training mats. The execution of the move had been perfect, Obi-Wan in complete control. Then he had landed. Not able to hold him, as soon as his foot had touched the ground, his injured leg had collapsed beneath him, bringing him down in a twisted heap and world of pain.

Suffice to say – Qui-Gon had not been best pleased. At the time- Obi-Wan couldn't tell whether his Master had been more relieved or angry.

*Flashback*

Robes flapping, Qui-Gon hurried into the medical bay, having just received a message from his Padawan's Lightsaber Instructor that the boy had been taken to the healers after an accident during training. Moments before he had felt pain flood through the bond he shared with Obi-Wan before mental shields had gone flying up, blocking him from reaching his apprentice. Dropping what he had been doing at the time he left for the healers immediately.

Concern and anxiety roiling in his stomach, Qui-Gon made the trip in a matter of minutes, long legs striding through the Temple.

"Obi-Wan?" he called as he entered, looking around. The healer on duty rose to greet the agitated Master, leading him through into one of the medical rooms.

There was Obi-Wan lying on one of the beds, in an upright position, supported by the raised bed behind him and plenty of pillows. His injured leg was in a tight brace, a decidedly sheepish expression on his young face. Qui-Gon crossed the room to his Padawan's side.

"Obi-Wan what happened?" he asked concerned, looking at the injured leg and back to his Padawan's face.

"I had an accident Master," Obi-Wan said carefully, one hand bunching the sheets at his side as he fidgeted.

"I can see that," Qui-Gon said curbing his impatience as Obi-Wan was purposely elusive as to why he was in the Healers' Wing. There couldn't be something terribly wrong…had he missed something? Was the boy unwell?

The boy's expression changed to one of shame and regret. "I'm sorry Master…I- I wasn't careful in training Master. I over exerted myself despite your orders and the healers. I came down awkwardly on my bad knee. The healers… think I've damaged the muscles again."

For a moment Qui-Gon didn't say anything as he exhaled, releasing many emotions to the Force at the same time. There was the relief. It was not a life-threatening lightsaber injury. They could deal with this- the boy would be fine. Then there was frustration. Why hadn't Obi-Wan listened? The rule Qui-Gon had lain down was for Obi-Wan's safety and wellbeing after all. Lastly there was irritation- predominantly at himself. Why hadn't he made sure with Obi-Wan's instructor that the boy was not allowed to attempt vigorous manoeuvres?

Obi-Wan must have noticed those expressions on his face as he ducked his head quickly, unable to see the disapproving look in his Master's eyes.

"Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon began, taking in the boy's defeated body language. "I'm not…well I am angry-you did disobey my order- but more that you were not mindful of your own body. You know that your leg is still healing and it needs time. You needlessly endangered yourself Padawan, that's why I'm cross. You must understand your limits before you can overcome them."

Obi-Wan nodded, still fixated by the sheets beneath him.

Qui-Gon sighed. "But I am much relieved you are not badly hurt. You gave me a fright Obi-Wan- something I do not appreciate," he said, tugging lightly at the braid hanging down beside the boy's ear in an attempt to lighten the situation. "Please don't worry me like that in future. You'll give me grey hairs."

"I'm sorry Master," Obi-Wan said quietly, meekly meeting his Master's eyes as Qui-Gon raised his chin so they were looking directly at each other. He'd never caused Qui-Gon to be angry with him before. It didn't feel nice.

Qui-Gon nodded. "I'll go get the healer to discharge you- if you can still walk that is?"

"I can," Obi-Wan promised, already swivelling himself round on the bed, legs dangling over the side. Qui-Gon stepped back to allow him room, but subtly hovered close by, ready to support the boy if his leg buckled again. Carefully, Obi-Wan lowered his good leg first to get a firm stance. Gingerly, both Jedi watched as the injured leg was placed on the ground.

So good so far- Qui-Gon thought, carefully observing his Padawan's progress.

It was not to be. Obi-Wan took a few tottering infant-like steps before his eyes widened and Qui-Gon could feel the pain leaking through his shields. Just before the boy collapsed, Qui-Gon firmly caught him under the armpits, steadying the boy. He could feel embarrassment, shame, regret and pain rolling off the boy in waves.

"I think that's enough," Qui-Gon said quietly with a decisive tone. As much as he knew Obi-Wan needed the lesson, his heart could not take seeing the boy suffering any longer.

Obi-Wan hung his head mutely as Qui-Gon helped him gently back to the bed. He was appalled at himself. So much for his plan on surprising Qui-Gon with his efforts in training. The last few weeks he had felt restless watching other Padawans progress whilst he was limited to the most basic katas. He felt like he was weak…letting down his Master. Qui-Gon was the best in the Temple with a lightsaber. What would he do with a Padawan who couldn't even spar properly?

*End Flashback*

"-Wan? Obi-Wan?"

Obi-Wan jerked himself out his thoughts as he heard his Master calling his name. The elder Jedi's head was tilted slightly as he gazed at his Padawan, blue eyes searching Obi-Wan's face intently. "I'm sorry Master," Obi-Wan apologised quickly. "I was lost in my thoughts."

"I thought so," Qui-Gon commented casually. He had a feeling he knew exactly where in the past his Padawan's mind had been focused. The failed Lightsaber session two weeks ago. Yes, he had been angry, but had later decided that it was punishment enough that Obi-Wan had been set back in his physiotherapy, much to the chagrin of the boy and the healers. To distract the boy he had concentrated on more advanced Force techniques that required much less movement. Yes, Obi-Wan was progressing nicely.

"The here and now," he reminded Obi-Wan.

"Yes Master."

Qui-Gon checked his chrono. "You've got class now haven't you?" he asked.

Obi-Wan double checked the time, eyes widening. "Yes Master- please excuse me. I will see you in the training hall?"

"Yes Padawan," Qui-Gon stifled an amused chuckle as Obi-Wan leapt from his chair, grabbed his bag and ran from the apartment all in one breath, calling a goodbye to Qui-Gon as the door shut behind him.

That boy. Really.

(Later that same day- Jedi Temple)

Obi-Wan left his final class of the day, checking the time as he did so. He still had thirty minutes before he needed to be in the training hall with his Master. Deciding to put his bag back in his room, Obi-Wan headed in the opposite direction to the training rooms, heading up the stairs towards the apartment he shared with Qui-Gon.

When he reached the apartment he found Qui-Gon already there, reading. The Master rose as Obi-Wan entered.

"I'll be ready in a few minutes," Obi-Wan said as he hurried towards his room.

"We will not be training today," Qui-Gon announced.

Obi-Wan hesitated in the doorway to his room, looking back at his Master, confusion evident on his face. Had he done something wrong? Did Qui-Gon still think he was not ready for higher level katas? Obi-Wan was about to say something when Qui-Gon broke the silence, deducting his Padawan's train of thought.

"You've done nothing wrong- the Council have asked to see us Obi-Wan," he clarified, watching the curious mix of emotions flush across his Padawan's face before Obi-Wan schooled his features to outwardly show only serenity. Qui-Gon wondered whether to test their bond but nothing was being broadcast so he left it. "They have a mission for us Padawan," Qui-Gon smiled as Obi-Wan's whole body posture seemed to change, he stood straighter and the smile was back in place. "We're to see them as soon as your classes were over. If you are ready?"

Obi-Wan nodded, "Yes Master!" he said, dropping his bag on his bed.

"Good," Qui-Gon sounded pleased as they both left their quarters heading for the Jedi Council room.

Presently, they were shown into the Council Room, Obi-Wan walking stiffly beside his Master. Both Jedi bowed as they reached the centre of the room, Masters Yoda and Mace Windu sitting directly opposite them. At least three quarters of the circle was taken, a couple of Masters absent on various missions.

"Being sent to the Vendovian System you are," Master Yoda announced after greeting the pair. "Know of it do you?"

"Yes Master," Qui-Gon inclined his head. "A system between the Middle and Outer Rim- it is close to some of the main trading routes."

Obi-Wan had never heard of the system before and made note to pay particular attention. No doubt his Master would give him plenty to read up on during their trip- an especially long one if they were heading towards the Outer Rim. At least Malrion had been nearer to Coruscant.

"In the system there is a collection of several medium-class advanced planets- currently in a bitter dispute over these trading routes and resource sharing," Plo Koon began. "The situation has worsened; war is almost inevitable."

Qui-Gon nodded. He had heard of the situation.

"Now, a peace treaty, to be signed by delegates from each planet and moon has been drawn up and a Jedi team have been requested to look over and assist the signing. War still hangs in the balance Master Jinn," Mace warned.

"Understand you do the importance of this mission?" Yoda asked, his ears rising questioningly.

Obi-Wan refrained from looking away from the powerful gaze of the old, diminutive Jedi Master. He sometimes felt that Master Yoda could look right through him, into him and pick out his darkest fears. However, he also knew Master Yoda to be gentle – had even helped him become a Padawan.

"We do Master," Qui-Gon said calmly, a rock in the stream of the Force for Obi-Wan who was standing by his elbow- still towering above the young Padawan. He looked comfortable and in control as always as he and Obi-Wan faced the Council on the briefing of the next mission together.

"Then you shall depart tomorrow," Mace Windu said. "The planetary system is intensely fragile. The peace treaty must be signed."

"May the Force be with you," Yoda inclined his head slowly towards the Master and Padawan standing in the middle of the room. "Good this mission will be for you. Challenging I see it being. Strengthen you both it shall." He was looking again at Obi-Wan who struggled to keep a serene expression on his face as he wondered over the aged master's words.

"May the Force be with Masters," Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan intoned together, bowing deeply.

Qui-Gon turned, knowing Obi-Wan was beside him and they left together, robes gently swishing as they exited the Council room. Only when the doors were closed did Obi-Wan feel he could actually breathe again. The presence of so many Jedi Masters rather blew him away still.

"You did well," Qui-Gon said as they walked back slowly to their apartment, his mind just mulling over the briefing. It seemed like a very classic example of the missions he was usually sent on. It would be good for Obi-Wan to observe the final negotiations and learn about an important planetary system.

Obi-Wan smiled with relief. His eyes suddenly widened in horror as his stomach rumbled.

"I think it may be time for evening meal," the Master noted, smiling at Obi-Wan's stomach protests as the boy clutched his middle with a scolding expression sent towards his stomach. The mission briefing had taken longer than Qui-Gon had expected. There was definitely no time to do any sparring he thought regretfully. It would have done Obi-Wan the world of good.

"Yes Master," Obi-Wan agreed. "When do we leave for the Vendovian System?"

"Early tomorrow morning," Qui-Gon said. "We pack tonight and should sleep early. The shuttle we get will leave the Temple early. But for now, let us go and eat." Obi-Wan nodded enthusiastically and the two Jedi joined the other Padawans, Knights and Masters all heading towards the dining hall in search of food and conversation.

(Much later- Jedi Temple- Coruscant)

Qui-Gon awoke suddenly from his sleep, instantly alert as the Force tugged him insistently to consciousness. He reached for his lightsaber on the bedside table and with the Force swept the room. It appeared that he was in no immediate danger. He leant back against the headboard, senses still on high alert as he probed the Force. What had the Force wanted from him?

Glancing over, Qui-Gon saw the time was just after 3am and it was still dark outside. His and Obi-Wan's transport for the Vendovian System would be leaving in four hours. Starting, he felt a tug on the bond he shared with Obi-Wan.

Was there a problem?

/Obi-Wan?/

That was when Obi-Wan's scream shattered the still air.

Qui-Gon propelled himself out of his bedroom and ran for his Padawan's room as pain and terror suddenly flooded the bond that had been silent a moment ago. The Master couldn't remember when he'd last moved faster.

"Obi-Wan!"

As you can see I'm back to my nasty cliffhanger ways hehe. Apologies! This chapter is longer than I expected- and up much more quickly than I anticioated. I basically have this story mapped out already so I know where I want to take it! Exciting huh? :)

Hope you enjoyed- review? Thank you!

AldabaranFox