A/N : This is my very first foray into Star Wars universe. And it is my first story written directly in English, which is not my native tongue. So, all advice and corrections are welcome.

Chapter 1

Homecoming

The night was chilly and quiet as master Qui-Gon Jinn paid his transport and stepped lightly onto the Temple grounds. He always went lightly – no small feat for a man of his size. He trod the garden path as silent as a ghost. He wished sometimes – the idea came almost as an afterthought - that his touch with… people… could be as smooth and light as his step.

The wind caught in his robes and whipped his hair. The Jedi smiled. He had been away for a long time. He had been alone. He had sought the solitude, but no more. His parting with Obi-Wan – there had been no parting. Qui-Gon had left, seeking vengeance. Tahl had died. In his arms.

Qui-Gon's steps slowed for a time. The master shook himself. No more vengeance, and no more isolation. His Padawan was here. Had been at the Temple, he too, alone, for over a year.

Qui-Gon had been a little surprised that Obi-Wan had not followed him back at the New Apsolon. It was not like Obi-Wan. That obstinate child - willful, headstrong, but kind and giving and bright. His little star, where life danced, shined, and bubbled with warmth and laughter. And yet Obi-Wan had let him go without a fight. Sometime later, much later, in fact, when the red shadow of death and wrath had lifted, Qui-Gon had been able to think straight again. He had learned that his apprentice had returned to the Temple with Mace Windu and Bant. Just like that.

How very strange, thought Qui-Gon again. So unlike him.

Strange or not, the Jedi master neared his quarters with a smile. He opened the door and stood unblinking.

So very strange.

The rooms were dark, quiet and empty with a cold emptiness. Qui-Gon switched the lights on. Everything was clean and ready for his return. Everything was as it has always been. Yet not. There was no trace of Obi-Wan's belongings. No data pads, no boots or shirts, no meditation mat. Nothing. As if Qui-Gon had dreamed himself an apprentice for the last four years. The Master stood for a while longer, his hands limp at his sides. He turned to go, but paused. It was the middle of the night. The answers will have to wait until morning.

Qui-Gon sat in his favorite chair, stretched his legs before him and leaned his head back.

Strange. It's becoming a mantra of mine, he mused wryly, eyes closed. But, yes, strange, strange, how home felt not as home at all.

Qui-Gon had looked forward to this moment with fondness and joy. The return, the reunion… He fell asleep seated, a little bit cold, with a furrow of unease upon his forehead.

Did you enjoy it? Did I bore you to tears? Please, tell me! Reviews are not only welcome. They will be treasured.