Title: I Found You
Author: Keyla Kenobi - [email protected]
Rating: G
Archive: Sure, just e-mail me!
Disclaimer: The boys belong to George Lucas, I don't make money with this,
I just use them for the MUSH!
Warning: There is a loving and parental relationship between Obi and Qui,
there is no slash so if you don't like that, don't read any further.
Summary: I'm trying to make a serie with this fics, and this would be the
first one. Qui-Gon meets Obi-Wan for the first time and learns something
from the boy's past. Obi-Wan is 3.
Beta-Read by Aida (The best Beta-reader!!!! Thanx!!)
/ Are italics /
Spoilers: I don't think there are any, just that Xanatos is mentioned in
this one too.
Check out also my other fic if you want:
Grumpy Tummy, A very Important Prescene In My Life, A Rainy Day, Fear, and
Teaching and Learning. They are all connected except for Fear.
*** *** *** *** *** ***
I Found You
Qui-Gon Jinn stopped suddenly as he felt *something*. And that something was
coming from the direction of the Creche's playground. He stretched his senses
until he could hear a frightened little voice.
"M-mommy...mommy, he'p me...!"
The Master frowned and quickly headed toward the playground. There, on the
highest slider, a small, trembling boy was calling softly for his mother.
Qui-Gon quickly climbed the stairs and soon found the little initiate in
question. The little boy was huddling in a corner of the slider's landing,
his eyes tightly shut. Qui-Gon observed that the little initiate appeared to
be no more than three years old..
"Hello. little one," he spoke gently, trying not to startle the child.
The boy looked up, fright radiating from his ice-blue eyes. He examined the
stranger before him and, after a pause, whispered sorrowfully, "You no my
Mommy."
Qui-Gon chuckled. "No, I guess I'm not your Mommy," he smiled softly, "but,
perhaps I can help you. Can you get down?"
The boy shook his head as he stretched his short arms in the direction of the
Master. Qui-Gon approached and gently picked the child up. Immediately, the
little initiate clung tightly to the elder Jedi's neck; hiding his face
between the Master's neck and the soft, flowing hair. Making sure that the
little boy was firmly secured against him, Qui-Gon began the careful descent
down. As they descended, Qui-Gon softly asked, "What's your name?"
The boy took some time before answering. But, finally he replied in a
muffled voice, "Obi-Wam."
"Obi-Wam?" the Master repeated.
"No! Obi-WaM!" the child corrected him, stressing the last word.
"Ah," Qui-Gon finally understood, "Obi-Wan?"
The boy nodded silently.
"Glad to meet you, Obi-Wan. I'm Master Qui-Gon," the tall Jedi said as he
introduced himself.
But, there was no reaction or answer from the boy. /That's strange,/ Qui-Gon
thought, /He should be crying, or at least a little frightened, but he is
reacting so calmly./
The trip towards the Creche was silent; Qui-Gon was at a loss for words. He
was not accustomed to dealing with children simply because the majority of
them became scared after they saw his imposing form. And it didn't help
matters that he did not respond well in the presence of children.
But this little boy was different. Qui-Gon felt as if they had met somewhere
before, although he did not recall ever seeing the child.
Once they arrived at the Creche, they were met by Master Skyla Lo'Tren. The
slim young woman had eyes and hair as dark as a moonless night. Clearly, she
had been waiting worriedly for someone in her office. She was so distracted
that she took no notice of Qui-Gon approaching in her direction.
"Skyla?"
The young woman turned abruptly, a bit startled. But, when she saw the small
bundle in Qui-Gon's arms, her relief was evident.
"Obi-Wan! Thank the Force you're all right! I was so worried! Thank you
too, Qui-Gon. Where was he?" she asked as she attempted to take Obi-Wan from
the tall Master's arms.
But this, apparently, was not what Obi-Wan wanted. He held tightly to
Qui-Gon's neck, refusing to let go. He kept his face hidden in the Master's
soft hair, while not making a sound.
The tall Master mutely signaled to Skyla, shaking his head and indicating
that the boy would be remaining with him for the moment. The young Creche
Master nodded her understanding and released the little boy.
"He was playing in the playground and ended up stuck on one of the sliders,"
Qui-Gon answered, amusement lighting his features.
"Oh, Obi-Wan, always looking for adventure. And I bet he chose the tallest
slider!" Skyla added with a chuckle.
Jinn nodded, grinning, then gazed down at the silent little boy.
"I will notify everybody that he was found safely," said the young woman as
she turned to leave.
"So, you are an adventure seeker?" Qui-Gon asked his charge gently as he
entered Skyla's office. He walked towards one of the chairs by the desk and
sat down. "You know, when I was a little guy like you, I used to do the same
all the time. And I got into a lot of trouble as well."
Obi-Wan pulled back at last, seemingly interested in the Master's words. But
his little face was oddly stoic, not showing any emotion, except for his
eyes. Qui-Gon observed that the ice-blue eyes displayed only sadness, sorrow
and pain. Hard emotions that this child had somehow bottled up inside
himself. /But why?/ Qui-Gon wondered, /Why would such a small boy feels this
way?/ The Master felt a strange constricting sensation inside his chest as
he looked into those large, sorrowful eyes. He decided to make another
attempt in order to earn a smile from the boy sitting quietly on his lap. He
smiled mischievously at the boy and added, "Master Yoda used to chase me
with his walking stick all over the Temple! That shows you how much trouble
I got in to."
Nothing. The child's face was not moving. Very slowly, Obi-Wan nestled his
head on Qui-Gon's chest, made himself comfortable, and whispered, "You weah
little?"
The elder Jedi couldn't suppress his laughter. "Yes, Obi-Wan. Once, many
years ago, I was as little as you are now."
"Don' be'ieve you," he heard the small, protesting voice, "You too tall!"
Qui-Gon laughed again, "But I wasn't born this tall, little one." For some
reason, children, and a few grown ups, had the impression that he had been
born, fully grown, with his exceptional height.
Unexpectedly, Obi-Wan pulled back and stared up into the Master's intense
blue eyes. For a moment, Qui-Gon thought the little boy could see right
through him. But, after a few seconds, he was presented with the most pure
and brilliant smile he had ever seen.
"You good," the little initiate stated as he lowered himself again onto
Qui-Gon's chest.
Qui-Gon was speechless. "Thank you" was all that he could say. He was
completely stunned by the boy's reaction. He had noted that while the child
had been looking at him, he felt that Obi-Wan was not just looking at the
physical *him*, but it was as if the boy were seeing beyond him. Able to see
who the real Qui-Gon was, his true being.
At that precise moment, Master Skyla entered the office and stopped. She
couldn't believe her eyes. Was that a smile on Obi-Wan's lips?
She looked at Qui-Gon, confusion clearly written in her dark, soulful eyes.
Qui-Gon smiled, "We've been talking for quite awhile. He doesn't believe
that I could be as little as him when I was younger."
"You've been doing what?"
Qui-Gon's smile slowly began to fade, "We have been...talking?"
"Qui-Gon, that's impossible! Obi-Wan has been unable to speak since the day
he was brought here!"
Both Jedi's attention were drawn to the yawning little boy. The little
initiate had apparently failed to notice Master Skyla's arrival. "Can you
stay heah, Mashtah Wy...Wy...Wygee?" he slurred Qui-Gon's name as he
attempted to create a name less complicated for him.
Skyla's eyes were widely open, as was her mouth. She just couldn't believe it!
Qui-Gon chuckled at the nickname he had just been given. "Of course, little
one. Want me to stay until you fall asleep?"
Obi-Wan nodded, rubbing his face against Qui-Gon's clothes in a very sleepy
way. Being near this Master made Obi-Wan feel safe and warm, just like a long
time ago. With an added yawn, he drifted off, still holding firmly to the
Master's tunics.
"Qui-Gon, this is completely amazing!" exclaimed Skyla. "Obi-Wan has never
spoken with anyone. Not even with the other children!"
"Well," Qui-Gon replied, still a bit confused, "He's been talking with me
quite normally. I mean..."
Just then Mace Windu entered through the main doorway, obviously trying to
catch his breath.
"Did you find him?", he asked, still recovering from what appeared to be a
long run.
"Yes, Qui-Gon found him."
"Qui?", Mace asked as he stretched his neck in the direction of Qui-Gon.
"Keep it down you two! You're both going to wake him!", Qui-Gon whispered
fiercely as he pointed to the sleeping initiate.
Mace stepped closer and observed Obi-Wan contentedly curled and sleeping on
Qui-Gon's lap. He gave a sigh of relief, but soon his mischievous mind
started working.
"Aww, Qui, you look so adorable holding the little boy. It's a pity I didn't
bring my camera!", Mace whispered mockingly.
Qui-Gon shot him a 'say-another-word-and-I'll-kill-you' stare as he drew both
arms protectively around the sleeping child.
Mace was about to shoot back a cocky response, but felt Skyla tugging on his
arm. "Mace! Obi-Wan can speak!"
The Council Member's face was worthy a holo-pic. Qui-Gon himself had a hard
time preventing a fit of giggles from escaping from him.
"What?! You serious?!?"
The overjoyed Master neglected to control his voice's volume and ended waking
Obi-Wan. He threw his hands over his mouth as the other two Masters hush him,
but it was late.
A pair of intense ice-blue eyes fluttered open. Sleepily, they seemed to
search for something, or someone, until they found their target. Gently
tilting his head back, Obi-Wan looked up to make sure that Qui-Gon was still
with him.
"Sorry to have awakened you, Obi-Wan. It was just Master Mace
being...himself.", he glanced at Windu as he spoke.
Obi-Wan directed his eyes towards the Council member and, as soon as he
recognized Mace, he gifted him with his most bright, but sleepy, smile just
before snuggling back against Qui-Gon.
"Don' go, Wygee. Can you shtay all nite?" he murmured sleepily as he
clutched tighter at the elder Jedi's tunics.
Qui-Gon questioningly looked up at the two Masters. Skyla quickly nodded to
the unspoken question, while Mace appeared too much in a state of shock to
answer.
"Okay, Obi-Wan, I'll stay with you," Qui-Gon said soothingly as he smoothed
the boy's auburn hair. But Obi-Wan already fallen asleep before Qui-Gon could
answer.
"D-did you see that?" Mace stammered as he slowly came out from his
paralysis. "H-he smiled. At m-me!"
Qui-Gon didn't understand what was happening.
"Mace, its normal that kids smile at people," and turning to Skyla, added,
"And its normal that children are able to speak. I don't understand why you
two are acting in this manner." Qui-Gon finished as he shook his head in
disbelief and gazed at both Masters.
Mace smiled understandingly, then sat on the chair in across from Qui-Gon.
"You have no idea who this boy is, right?" he asked gently.
Qui-Gon considered his answer for a brief moment. He had indeed felt
something when he had approached the playground. A feeling as if he and the
child had met before. It almost felt like a...connection. Instead, he
answered, "No, I have no idea who he is."
Mace sensed what Qui-Gon was thinking, but decided against mentioning it.
"His name is Obi-Wan Kenobi. Remember the last mission that we handled
together?" the Council Member asked calmly, and when he saw that Qui-Gon was
unable to locate the incident, added, "The one before...Xanatos turned."
At the sound of Xanatos' name, Qui-Gon stiffened and took his eyes away from
Mace. Even though the memory was painful, he was able to recall the mission
that Mace was mentioning.
"Yes, I do," he cleared his throat before answering.
"And do you remember the girl you found?"
Qui-Gon frowned, then closed his eyes as he searched his mind until he found
the image of a young twenty-year-old girl. They had found the girl sprawled
on the floor, destruction and death surrounding her. She was certainly dead,
but he remembered that he had sensed something alive as he neared her
lifeless body. As he approached, he gently moved the girl's body on its side
and discovered an infant boy curled under his mother's limp arm. The tiny
baby could not have been older than one-year-old, and both his ragged
clothes, as well as his small hands and face, were stained with her blood.
The Master had gasped, shocked at the horrible sight. At first, he thought
the infant also dead, but when he leaned towards it, he could hear small
sniffling noises and he appeared to be whispering. Trying not to be noticed
by the child, he had knelt beside him and had stretched out with his senses
in order to hear what the baby was saying.
"Mommy,...wake up...wanna go 'ome...Mommy?"
The Master could hear that the small voice was hoarse and weak, apparently
from screaming, and he could also sense the exhaustion straining at the small
form.
As carefully as he could, he lifted the young woman's arm and picked the
thin, huddled form from the floor. It was so light in his arms. He winced as
he wondered just how many days the little boy had been without food or water.
He pushed the thought from his mind as he quickly cradled the small bundle
against his chest, and wrapped the now shivering body in his own large robe.
The little boy was too worn out and confused to put up a fight against
Qui-Gon. He allowed the tall stranger to pick him up as he felt warmth and
comfort surround him. He felt peace radiating from the Master's body,
warming his soul, as he felt something warm and soft warm his shivering body.
Surprisingly, he felt safe now, just like home.
"Daddy?" he asked faintly.
Qui-Gon heard the hoarse whisper, but there was no time to explain that he
wasn't "daddy". Instead, he just answered, "Yes, little one. Don't worry, you're going to
be okay now."
Qui-Gon's eyes sprang open and he stared at Mace. Sudden realization washed
over him as he gazed down at the sleeping bundle in his arms. Was it...?
"That baby that you found two years ago is sleeping on your lap, Qui," Mace
said finally. "After we arrived, you accompanied Xanatos on that last
mission. Once, we realized that the boy was Force-sensitive, the Council
agreed to train him. But, he hadn't been able to utter a word.....until now."
Qui-Gon was stunned. It was completely incredible! This was the same little
boy he had rescued? He had assumed that the child had been sent to a new
family after he had recovered from his ordeal, but it had never occurred to
him that Obi-Wan could be Force-sensitive.
Qui-Gon looked down at the boy and realized just how much he had grown. He
was certainly heavier, but he also looked so very healthy. That's why he
felt as if they had met him before! But there was still something that still
needed answering - why was he feeling so connected to Obi-Wan?
Skyla glanced up at the clock and noticed how late it was. "Look at the
time! Its awfully late, Qui-Gon. Could you take him to his bed? It is the
only one that is empty," she requested as she looked from one Master to
another.
"Of course," Qui-Gon said, as he stood, carefully not to wake his little new
friend. He then headed towards the Sleep Quarters as he looked over his
shoulder and whispered, "Bye, Mace. Skyla."
"Bye, Qui. See you tomorrow," with Qui-Gon already gone, Mace turned to
Skyla, "It's simply incredible! It's as if the little boy had been waiting
for Qui-Gon!"
"I would bet he had been."
*** *** *** *** *** ***
Qui-Gon had finally reached the Sleep Quarters. This section of the Creche
was dominated by a long hall filled with hundreds of little beds. All the
beds were occupied by children ranging in age from 2 years to 6 years old.
As he continued walking, he suddenly spotted the one empty be. Obviously,
this bed belonged to Obi-Wan. Quietly, he sat on the edge of the bed, slowly
placed the sleeping boy on it.
As soon as Obi-Wan felt himself separate from his feeling of safety and
warmth, he gasped and quickly opened his eyes. Qui-Gon was still there, but
he didn't look as if he were staying. Quickly, he climbed back onto the
Master's lap and embraced Qui-Gon's broad chest with his short arms.
"No go...shtay...!" he cried pleadingly.
Qui-Gon was obviously surprised by both their reactions. It was amazing how
the child could feel that he was about to leave! And now, he was holding on
to Qui-Gon for dear life. Qui-Gon's though of heading for his own bed
wavered a little at the child's words. But, he soon realized that he was not
going to be able to sleep on such a small bed.
"Obi-Wan I can't stay here, I have to sleep in my own bed," he said as he
tried to reason with the child.
"No...slip heah,...don' like dark...," Obi pleaded, almost sobbing. He
buried his face against Qui-Gon's chest.
Qui-Gon's iron determination melted at the simple and innocent plea from the
initiate. /I can deal with the most complicated and stubborn of diplomats,
but here I am being manipulated by a 3-year-old initiate...,/ he thought in
amusement.
"All right, Obi-Wan, I will stay here with you," he sighed in resignation.
"But just for tonight. Okay?"
The smile that suddenly illuminated the boy's face was priceless. Obi-Wan
quickly got under the blankets and made as much room for the large Master as
possible. Before lying on the *very* small bed, he looked around and saw
hundreds of sleeping children that, come morning, were going to be very
surprised to find a very tall and very sleepy Jedi Master in their sleeping
quarters. He winced at the idea, but shook the though aside as he carefully
settled alongside Obi-Wan. He pillowed the small head on his arm and drew
the little frame closer.
"Good night, little one."
Obi-Wan murmured a 'Nite, nite', then drifted off into a peaceful dream,
feeling safe for the first time since he last saw his Mom.
As he heard Obi-Wan's breathing become slow and deep, Qui-Gon examined his
situation. He was lying on the smallest of the Creche beds, surrounded by
hundreds of little monsters that in the morning were going to start
screaming, running, and jumping...but he didn't care. A year ago he would
have never done anything like this. But now, watching this particular child,
the same one he had saved two years ago from a certain death, who now lay so
peacefully dreaming...he just didn't care. If doing all this meant bringing a
little bit of happiness into Obi-Wan's life, then he would gladly do it.
Qui-Gon titled his head until he could see the soft features of the sleeping
boy. Being near Obi-Wan made the Master feel very calm and at ease. It had
been a long time since he last felt this way, since before Xanatos had turned
to the Dark Side. The wounds of that betrayal were still very fresh and they
were still very open. But, strangely, they didn't hurt as much in Obi-Wan's
calm presence. He could feel Obi-Wan's peaceful and innocent aura swirl
around him, and through him. Perhaps this boy was what he needed to heal, to
leave the past behind.
A yawn escaped him as his blue eyes slowly began to close. As sleep gently
began to claim him, he shifted slightly, trying to find a more comfortable
position on the small bed. He happily smiled as he dropped a kiss on the
soft, auburn hair of the small head lying contentedly next to him. His soft,
happy smile softened his lips as sleep finally claimed him.
The End.
Author: Keyla Kenobi - [email protected]
Rating: G
Archive: Sure, just e-mail me!
Disclaimer: The boys belong to George Lucas, I don't make money with this,
I just use them for the MUSH!
Warning: There is a loving and parental relationship between Obi and Qui,
there is no slash so if you don't like that, don't read any further.
Summary: I'm trying to make a serie with this fics, and this would be the
first one. Qui-Gon meets Obi-Wan for the first time and learns something
from the boy's past. Obi-Wan is 3.
Beta-Read by Aida (The best Beta-reader!!!! Thanx!!)
/ Are italics /
Spoilers: I don't think there are any, just that Xanatos is mentioned in
this one too.
Check out also my other fic if you want:
Grumpy Tummy, A very Important Prescene In My Life, A Rainy Day, Fear, and
Teaching and Learning. They are all connected except for Fear.
*** *** *** *** *** ***
I Found You
Qui-Gon Jinn stopped suddenly as he felt *something*. And that something was
coming from the direction of the Creche's playground. He stretched his senses
until he could hear a frightened little voice.
"M-mommy...mommy, he'p me...!"
The Master frowned and quickly headed toward the playground. There, on the
highest slider, a small, trembling boy was calling softly for his mother.
Qui-Gon quickly climbed the stairs and soon found the little initiate in
question. The little boy was huddling in a corner of the slider's landing,
his eyes tightly shut. Qui-Gon observed that the little initiate appeared to
be no more than three years old..
"Hello. little one," he spoke gently, trying not to startle the child.
The boy looked up, fright radiating from his ice-blue eyes. He examined the
stranger before him and, after a pause, whispered sorrowfully, "You no my
Mommy."
Qui-Gon chuckled. "No, I guess I'm not your Mommy," he smiled softly, "but,
perhaps I can help you. Can you get down?"
The boy shook his head as he stretched his short arms in the direction of the
Master. Qui-Gon approached and gently picked the child up. Immediately, the
little initiate clung tightly to the elder Jedi's neck; hiding his face
between the Master's neck and the soft, flowing hair. Making sure that the
little boy was firmly secured against him, Qui-Gon began the careful descent
down. As they descended, Qui-Gon softly asked, "What's your name?"
The boy took some time before answering. But, finally he replied in a
muffled voice, "Obi-Wam."
"Obi-Wam?" the Master repeated.
"No! Obi-WaM!" the child corrected him, stressing the last word.
"Ah," Qui-Gon finally understood, "Obi-Wan?"
The boy nodded silently.
"Glad to meet you, Obi-Wan. I'm Master Qui-Gon," the tall Jedi said as he
introduced himself.
But, there was no reaction or answer from the boy. /That's strange,/ Qui-Gon
thought, /He should be crying, or at least a little frightened, but he is
reacting so calmly./
The trip towards the Creche was silent; Qui-Gon was at a loss for words. He
was not accustomed to dealing with children simply because the majority of
them became scared after they saw his imposing form. And it didn't help
matters that he did not respond well in the presence of children.
But this little boy was different. Qui-Gon felt as if they had met somewhere
before, although he did not recall ever seeing the child.
Once they arrived at the Creche, they were met by Master Skyla Lo'Tren. The
slim young woman had eyes and hair as dark as a moonless night. Clearly, she
had been waiting worriedly for someone in her office. She was so distracted
that she took no notice of Qui-Gon approaching in her direction.
"Skyla?"
The young woman turned abruptly, a bit startled. But, when she saw the small
bundle in Qui-Gon's arms, her relief was evident.
"Obi-Wan! Thank the Force you're all right! I was so worried! Thank you
too, Qui-Gon. Where was he?" she asked as she attempted to take Obi-Wan from
the tall Master's arms.
But this, apparently, was not what Obi-Wan wanted. He held tightly to
Qui-Gon's neck, refusing to let go. He kept his face hidden in the Master's
soft hair, while not making a sound.
The tall Master mutely signaled to Skyla, shaking his head and indicating
that the boy would be remaining with him for the moment. The young Creche
Master nodded her understanding and released the little boy.
"He was playing in the playground and ended up stuck on one of the sliders,"
Qui-Gon answered, amusement lighting his features.
"Oh, Obi-Wan, always looking for adventure. And I bet he chose the tallest
slider!" Skyla added with a chuckle.
Jinn nodded, grinning, then gazed down at the silent little boy.
"I will notify everybody that he was found safely," said the young woman as
she turned to leave.
"So, you are an adventure seeker?" Qui-Gon asked his charge gently as he
entered Skyla's office. He walked towards one of the chairs by the desk and
sat down. "You know, when I was a little guy like you, I used to do the same
all the time. And I got into a lot of trouble as well."
Obi-Wan pulled back at last, seemingly interested in the Master's words. But
his little face was oddly stoic, not showing any emotion, except for his
eyes. Qui-Gon observed that the ice-blue eyes displayed only sadness, sorrow
and pain. Hard emotions that this child had somehow bottled up inside
himself. /But why?/ Qui-Gon wondered, /Why would such a small boy feels this
way?/ The Master felt a strange constricting sensation inside his chest as
he looked into those large, sorrowful eyes. He decided to make another
attempt in order to earn a smile from the boy sitting quietly on his lap. He
smiled mischievously at the boy and added, "Master Yoda used to chase me
with his walking stick all over the Temple! That shows you how much trouble
I got in to."
Nothing. The child's face was not moving. Very slowly, Obi-Wan nestled his
head on Qui-Gon's chest, made himself comfortable, and whispered, "You weah
little?"
The elder Jedi couldn't suppress his laughter. "Yes, Obi-Wan. Once, many
years ago, I was as little as you are now."
"Don' be'ieve you," he heard the small, protesting voice, "You too tall!"
Qui-Gon laughed again, "But I wasn't born this tall, little one." For some
reason, children, and a few grown ups, had the impression that he had been
born, fully grown, with his exceptional height.
Unexpectedly, Obi-Wan pulled back and stared up into the Master's intense
blue eyes. For a moment, Qui-Gon thought the little boy could see right
through him. But, after a few seconds, he was presented with the most pure
and brilliant smile he had ever seen.
"You good," the little initiate stated as he lowered himself again onto
Qui-Gon's chest.
Qui-Gon was speechless. "Thank you" was all that he could say. He was
completely stunned by the boy's reaction. He had noted that while the child
had been looking at him, he felt that Obi-Wan was not just looking at the
physical *him*, but it was as if the boy were seeing beyond him. Able to see
who the real Qui-Gon was, his true being.
At that precise moment, Master Skyla entered the office and stopped. She
couldn't believe her eyes. Was that a smile on Obi-Wan's lips?
She looked at Qui-Gon, confusion clearly written in her dark, soulful eyes.
Qui-Gon smiled, "We've been talking for quite awhile. He doesn't believe
that I could be as little as him when I was younger."
"You've been doing what?"
Qui-Gon's smile slowly began to fade, "We have been...talking?"
"Qui-Gon, that's impossible! Obi-Wan has been unable to speak since the day
he was brought here!"
Both Jedi's attention were drawn to the yawning little boy. The little
initiate had apparently failed to notice Master Skyla's arrival. "Can you
stay heah, Mashtah Wy...Wy...Wygee?" he slurred Qui-Gon's name as he
attempted to create a name less complicated for him.
Skyla's eyes were widely open, as was her mouth. She just couldn't believe it!
Qui-Gon chuckled at the nickname he had just been given. "Of course, little
one. Want me to stay until you fall asleep?"
Obi-Wan nodded, rubbing his face against Qui-Gon's clothes in a very sleepy
way. Being near this Master made Obi-Wan feel safe and warm, just like a long
time ago. With an added yawn, he drifted off, still holding firmly to the
Master's tunics.
"Qui-Gon, this is completely amazing!" exclaimed Skyla. "Obi-Wan has never
spoken with anyone. Not even with the other children!"
"Well," Qui-Gon replied, still a bit confused, "He's been talking with me
quite normally. I mean..."
Just then Mace Windu entered through the main doorway, obviously trying to
catch his breath.
"Did you find him?", he asked, still recovering from what appeared to be a
long run.
"Yes, Qui-Gon found him."
"Qui?", Mace asked as he stretched his neck in the direction of Qui-Gon.
"Keep it down you two! You're both going to wake him!", Qui-Gon whispered
fiercely as he pointed to the sleeping initiate.
Mace stepped closer and observed Obi-Wan contentedly curled and sleeping on
Qui-Gon's lap. He gave a sigh of relief, but soon his mischievous mind
started working.
"Aww, Qui, you look so adorable holding the little boy. It's a pity I didn't
bring my camera!", Mace whispered mockingly.
Qui-Gon shot him a 'say-another-word-and-I'll-kill-you' stare as he drew both
arms protectively around the sleeping child.
Mace was about to shoot back a cocky response, but felt Skyla tugging on his
arm. "Mace! Obi-Wan can speak!"
The Council Member's face was worthy a holo-pic. Qui-Gon himself had a hard
time preventing a fit of giggles from escaping from him.
"What?! You serious?!?"
The overjoyed Master neglected to control his voice's volume and ended waking
Obi-Wan. He threw his hands over his mouth as the other two Masters hush him,
but it was late.
A pair of intense ice-blue eyes fluttered open. Sleepily, they seemed to
search for something, or someone, until they found their target. Gently
tilting his head back, Obi-Wan looked up to make sure that Qui-Gon was still
with him.
"Sorry to have awakened you, Obi-Wan. It was just Master Mace
being...himself.", he glanced at Windu as he spoke.
Obi-Wan directed his eyes towards the Council member and, as soon as he
recognized Mace, he gifted him with his most bright, but sleepy, smile just
before snuggling back against Qui-Gon.
"Don' go, Wygee. Can you shtay all nite?" he murmured sleepily as he
clutched tighter at the elder Jedi's tunics.
Qui-Gon questioningly looked up at the two Masters. Skyla quickly nodded to
the unspoken question, while Mace appeared too much in a state of shock to
answer.
"Okay, Obi-Wan, I'll stay with you," Qui-Gon said soothingly as he smoothed
the boy's auburn hair. But Obi-Wan already fallen asleep before Qui-Gon could
answer.
"D-did you see that?" Mace stammered as he slowly came out from his
paralysis. "H-he smiled. At m-me!"
Qui-Gon didn't understand what was happening.
"Mace, its normal that kids smile at people," and turning to Skyla, added,
"And its normal that children are able to speak. I don't understand why you
two are acting in this manner." Qui-Gon finished as he shook his head in
disbelief and gazed at both Masters.
Mace smiled understandingly, then sat on the chair in across from Qui-Gon.
"You have no idea who this boy is, right?" he asked gently.
Qui-Gon considered his answer for a brief moment. He had indeed felt
something when he had approached the playground. A feeling as if he and the
child had met before. It almost felt like a...connection. Instead, he
answered, "No, I have no idea who he is."
Mace sensed what Qui-Gon was thinking, but decided against mentioning it.
"His name is Obi-Wan Kenobi. Remember the last mission that we handled
together?" the Council Member asked calmly, and when he saw that Qui-Gon was
unable to locate the incident, added, "The one before...Xanatos turned."
At the sound of Xanatos' name, Qui-Gon stiffened and took his eyes away from
Mace. Even though the memory was painful, he was able to recall the mission
that Mace was mentioning.
"Yes, I do," he cleared his throat before answering.
"And do you remember the girl you found?"
Qui-Gon frowned, then closed his eyes as he searched his mind until he found
the image of a young twenty-year-old girl. They had found the girl sprawled
on the floor, destruction and death surrounding her. She was certainly dead,
but he remembered that he had sensed something alive as he neared her
lifeless body. As he approached, he gently moved the girl's body on its side
and discovered an infant boy curled under his mother's limp arm. The tiny
baby could not have been older than one-year-old, and both his ragged
clothes, as well as his small hands and face, were stained with her blood.
The Master had gasped, shocked at the horrible sight. At first, he thought
the infant also dead, but when he leaned towards it, he could hear small
sniffling noises and he appeared to be whispering. Trying not to be noticed
by the child, he had knelt beside him and had stretched out with his senses
in order to hear what the baby was saying.
"Mommy,...wake up...wanna go 'ome...Mommy?"
The Master could hear that the small voice was hoarse and weak, apparently
from screaming, and he could also sense the exhaustion straining at the small
form.
As carefully as he could, he lifted the young woman's arm and picked the
thin, huddled form from the floor. It was so light in his arms. He winced as
he wondered just how many days the little boy had been without food or water.
He pushed the thought from his mind as he quickly cradled the small bundle
against his chest, and wrapped the now shivering body in his own large robe.
The little boy was too worn out and confused to put up a fight against
Qui-Gon. He allowed the tall stranger to pick him up as he felt warmth and
comfort surround him. He felt peace radiating from the Master's body,
warming his soul, as he felt something warm and soft warm his shivering body.
Surprisingly, he felt safe now, just like home.
"Daddy?" he asked faintly.
Qui-Gon heard the hoarse whisper, but there was no time to explain that he
wasn't "daddy". Instead, he just answered, "Yes, little one. Don't worry, you're going to
be okay now."
Qui-Gon's eyes sprang open and he stared at Mace. Sudden realization washed
over him as he gazed down at the sleeping bundle in his arms. Was it...?
"That baby that you found two years ago is sleeping on your lap, Qui," Mace
said finally. "After we arrived, you accompanied Xanatos on that last
mission. Once, we realized that the boy was Force-sensitive, the Council
agreed to train him. But, he hadn't been able to utter a word.....until now."
Qui-Gon was stunned. It was completely incredible! This was the same little
boy he had rescued? He had assumed that the child had been sent to a new
family after he had recovered from his ordeal, but it had never occurred to
him that Obi-Wan could be Force-sensitive.
Qui-Gon looked down at the boy and realized just how much he had grown. He
was certainly heavier, but he also looked so very healthy. That's why he
felt as if they had met him before! But there was still something that still
needed answering - why was he feeling so connected to Obi-Wan?
Skyla glanced up at the clock and noticed how late it was. "Look at the
time! Its awfully late, Qui-Gon. Could you take him to his bed? It is the
only one that is empty," she requested as she looked from one Master to
another.
"Of course," Qui-Gon said, as he stood, carefully not to wake his little new
friend. He then headed towards the Sleep Quarters as he looked over his
shoulder and whispered, "Bye, Mace. Skyla."
"Bye, Qui. See you tomorrow," with Qui-Gon already gone, Mace turned to
Skyla, "It's simply incredible! It's as if the little boy had been waiting
for Qui-Gon!"
"I would bet he had been."
*** *** *** *** *** ***
Qui-Gon had finally reached the Sleep Quarters. This section of the Creche
was dominated by a long hall filled with hundreds of little beds. All the
beds were occupied by children ranging in age from 2 years to 6 years old.
As he continued walking, he suddenly spotted the one empty be. Obviously,
this bed belonged to Obi-Wan. Quietly, he sat on the edge of the bed, slowly
placed the sleeping boy on it.
As soon as Obi-Wan felt himself separate from his feeling of safety and
warmth, he gasped and quickly opened his eyes. Qui-Gon was still there, but
he didn't look as if he were staying. Quickly, he climbed back onto the
Master's lap and embraced Qui-Gon's broad chest with his short arms.
"No go...shtay...!" he cried pleadingly.
Qui-Gon was obviously surprised by both their reactions. It was amazing how
the child could feel that he was about to leave! And now, he was holding on
to Qui-Gon for dear life. Qui-Gon's though of heading for his own bed
wavered a little at the child's words. But, he soon realized that he was not
going to be able to sleep on such a small bed.
"Obi-Wan I can't stay here, I have to sleep in my own bed," he said as he
tried to reason with the child.
"No...slip heah,...don' like dark...," Obi pleaded, almost sobbing. He
buried his face against Qui-Gon's chest.
Qui-Gon's iron determination melted at the simple and innocent plea from the
initiate. /I can deal with the most complicated and stubborn of diplomats,
but here I am being manipulated by a 3-year-old initiate...,/ he thought in
amusement.
"All right, Obi-Wan, I will stay here with you," he sighed in resignation.
"But just for tonight. Okay?"
The smile that suddenly illuminated the boy's face was priceless. Obi-Wan
quickly got under the blankets and made as much room for the large Master as
possible. Before lying on the *very* small bed, he looked around and saw
hundreds of sleeping children that, come morning, were going to be very
surprised to find a very tall and very sleepy Jedi Master in their sleeping
quarters. He winced at the idea, but shook the though aside as he carefully
settled alongside Obi-Wan. He pillowed the small head on his arm and drew
the little frame closer.
"Good night, little one."
Obi-Wan murmured a 'Nite, nite', then drifted off into a peaceful dream,
feeling safe for the first time since he last saw his Mom.
As he heard Obi-Wan's breathing become slow and deep, Qui-Gon examined his
situation. He was lying on the smallest of the Creche beds, surrounded by
hundreds of little monsters that in the morning were going to start
screaming, running, and jumping...but he didn't care. A year ago he would
have never done anything like this. But now, watching this particular child,
the same one he had saved two years ago from a certain death, who now lay so
peacefully dreaming...he just didn't care. If doing all this meant bringing a
little bit of happiness into Obi-Wan's life, then he would gladly do it.
Qui-Gon titled his head until he could see the soft features of the sleeping
boy. Being near Obi-Wan made the Master feel very calm and at ease. It had
been a long time since he last felt this way, since before Xanatos had turned
to the Dark Side. The wounds of that betrayal were still very fresh and they
were still very open. But, strangely, they didn't hurt as much in Obi-Wan's
calm presence. He could feel Obi-Wan's peaceful and innocent aura swirl
around him, and through him. Perhaps this boy was what he needed to heal, to
leave the past behind.
A yawn escaped him as his blue eyes slowly began to close. As sleep gently
began to claim him, he shifted slightly, trying to find a more comfortable
position on the small bed. He happily smiled as he dropped a kiss on the
soft, auburn hair of the small head lying contentedly next to him. His soft,
happy smile softened his lips as sleep finally claimed him.
The End.