Fall into Darkness

Archive: Master Apprentice. Anyone else just ask!

Category: Au, First Time, BDSM, Non-Q/O, Pre-Slash?,

Rating: NC-17

Pairing: O/M, O/M/S, O/Q

Warnings: Nonconsensual sex. Lot's of torture! Yeah Baby!

Spoilers: This takes place within and after TPM.

Summary: What if that scene in TPM had gone this way?? and beyond!

Feedback: I crave it! romana2@xtn.net

Disclaimer: We all know who they belong to. No profit is being made from this.



"Nooooooo!" Obi-Wan screamed from behind the force field, as the Sith's blade struck his Master a fatal blow. He watched helplessly as his Master slid boneless to the ground. The Sith poked at the Jedi Master with his foot, then satisfied turned to face the stricken apprentice.

The Sith smiled coldly at Obi-Wan. "Your Master is lost, little one," the black gloved hand brought up a small device. "As is your precious temple."

Obi-Wan watched with a dawning horror when the Sith smiled cruelly, and pressed the detonator. He staggered as his senses where overwhelmed with the crying out of thousands of voices that were suddenly silenced. Oh, sweet Force! This can't be happening. Not the temple! But when he stretched out with his feelings, he knew they were lost. Trembling with rage, he heard the locks click signaling the coming rotation of the force field. He brought his lightsaber up and ignited it. When the field opened, he advanced on the Sith. They battled furiously, lightsabers clashing, blue meeting red with a vengeance.

They circled each other, looking for an opening. Then Obi-Wan heard a low moan behind him.

//Master?//

Darth Maul used the distraction to rush at the Padawan, barreling into him, knocking them both to the floor. Obi-Wan pressed a knee to Maul's stomach and pushed, flinging the Sith off him. He twisted over, struggling to get to his feet, but the Sith was there pressing him back down to the floor. Strong hands gripped Obi-Wan's wrists keeping them trapped above his head. He flinched when he felt the hot breath on his neck, and that sure wasn't the Sith's lightsaber poking into the cleft of his buttocks.

"You... are... exquisite," Maul's tongue flickered out and traced the outer shell of his ear.

Liquid ice ran up Obi-Wan's spine at the words and the intimate touch. He tucked an arm and a leg, rolling and twisting out of the immovable grip. But it was not enough to completely dislodge the Sith's hold on him, as they rolled Obi-Wan brought his elbow down hard into the Sith's midsection. Free, Obi-Wan leapt to his feet, and ignited his saber. He frantically tried to calm himself, but he couldn't seem to find his center.

The Sith slashed at Obi-Wan's legs and the Padawan backflipped out of reach. The Sith was quicker. A turning back kick to his chest caused Obi-Wan to slam into a wall. His head connected with the hard surface, and he momentarily saw stars. In one smooth movement, the Sith deactivated his saber, and grabbed Obi-Wan pressing him into the wall. Maul gripped the wrist holding the lightsaber, and slammed it repeatedly into the wall. Obi-Wan felt his saber slide out of his nerveless fingers to the floor. Maul's hand went to Obi-Wan's throat as the bastard kicked his lightsaber well out of reach. Obi-Wan gasped when he felt Maul's mind clamp down on his, bringing with it a flood of darkness. It weakened and disoriented him, and he dangled helplessly from the hand that held him, feet just barely touching the floor. It was at this moment another soft groan came from Qui-Gon.

"You are dying, Jedi," the Sith barely glanced at the fallen man. Even as wounded as he was ,Qui-Gon struggled into a sitting position.

"Master!" Obi-Wan managed to get out of his aching throat.

"The question is what to do with your pretty little apprentice?" Maul continued.

"Release him," Qui-Gon rasped.

"Ohhh, No no no. When you die old man I will be holding the last Jedi in my hands. Do you really think I'm fool enough to just let him go?" Maul gave a quick jerk of his arm, causing Obi-Wan's eyes to roll back in his head at the sudden loss of oxygen.

"Get your hands off him!"

"You are in a position unsuitable to give orders Jedi scum!" Maul snarled and pulled Obi- Wan to him wrapping an arm around his waist. The Sith grabbed the Padawan's small ponytail, yanking his head back viciously. He dragged Obi-Wan to stand closer to the Jedi Master.

The Sith glared triumphantly. "How does it feel Jedi? How does it feel to know you've lost everything? The Jedi are no more, and your apprentice now belongs to me. "

Qui-Gon shuddered at the implication. The Sith saw it and nodded knowingly.

"Yessss," he hissed. "I just had the most delightful idea. The last Jedi, turned to the darkside. It's poetic don't you think? He's my apprentice now."

Obi-Wan moaned softly engulfed in the Sith's strangle hold.

"He will not turn," Qui-Gon denied softly, shaking his head.

Maul cocked his head to the side. "Won't he? You're senses are leaving you, Jedi. Can you not feel the conflict? The fear and the hate already building within him? The shock of losing your temple, losing you. Oh he will turn, but do not worry Jedi. I will take good care of 'my' apprentice," Maul's hand traveled teasingly over Obi-Wan's hip to his groin and squeezed possessively. The Padawan gasped and his head reeled, feeling the other within his mind again.

"No!" Qui-Gon was horrified.

" Lesson number one, my apprentice," Maul purred in Obi-Wan's ear. " Caring for others makes you weak and vulnerable."

The Sith began dragging Obi-Wan away towards a small corridor.

"Say goodbye to your precious Master, little one."

"Nooo!!! Master! No! Please, no!" Obi-Wan cried in panic as he felt the grip on his mind retreat a little. He struggled in earnest now.

Maul glanced back at the Jedi Master. "Farewell, Jedi. I hope your death is long and painful," he smiled and left taking the frantic Padawan with him.

"Qui-Gon!!!!!" Obi-Wan's shriek echoed in the small room, as he was dragged away from his beloved Master.

"Obi-Wan!" Qui-Gon slumped back against the wall unable to follow. Get up! Obi-Wan! his mind cried, but his injured body wouldn't comply. Moment's later darkness swallowed him.

Panaka and his guards found him that way sometime later.

"Is he dead?" one of the guards asked. Panaka just leaned over the still form and laid a hand on the limp shoulder. He started in surprise when the indigo eyes opened and the Jedi Master's hand closed over his in a fierce grip.

"Don't..let..me..die," he gasped and then succumbed to unconsciousness once more.

Panaka blinked. The Jedi wasn't asking out of fear. He was asking out of rage.

Part 2

Obi-Wan's foot connected with a slave droid's head, as he was half carried, half dragged into the Sith's transport.

"That was unwise," Maul hissed releasing his grip, and dumped the Padawan roughly to the floor. The Sith moved towards the cockpit shouting orders.

"Home. And take the long way around," he ordered the pilot. He turned back to his prisoner.

"Who are you?" Obi-Wan massaged his bruised throat, gazing in anger at the thing that in just a short time had destroyed his life. The Sith bowed and made a sweeping motion with one hand. "I am Darth Maul," he introduced sarcastically. "And you are mine, Obi-Wan Kenobi," he smiled suggestively and began stalking toward his prisoner.

Obi-Wan's eyes widened and he backed frantically away. Maul grabbed his wrists and pulled him to his feet, leading him down a corridor into a small room. The room was bare except for a tiny cot in the corner. Obi-Wan cried out in pain as he was shoved into another wall, the Sith's body covering his own. He put his hands to the Sith's chest trying to push him away, but it was useless, the Dark Lord was too strong. He felt the Sith's mouth cover his, and almost choked as the invading tongue thrust deeply inside him. Maul continued to ravish his mouth leaving no velvety crevice or corner unexplored while one of the Sith's hands slid down into his pants, and began to stroke him, moving in long sensuous circular motions.

"Lesson number two, my apprentice," Maul broke from his mouth to nuzzle at his neck. "I take what I want when I want it."

He twisted and tried to pull away when Maul's other hand roamed down his chest and into his tunics, ripping them open. Maul watched his captive's face as he caressed and tweaked a nipple. Obi-Wan closed his eyes, trying to deny what was happening to him. The temple destroyed, his Master left to die painfully alone, and now this creature was going to rape him. Obi-Wan opened his eyes, glaring at the Sith, and did the only thing he could do. He hauled back, and spit in the Sith's face. Maul stared at him for a second, stunned then laughed and brought the hand that was in Obi-Wan's pants to his face, wiping the spit from his cheek.

Obi-Wan could only watch in astonishment when Maul closed his mouth over the dripping finger, threw his head back, and with his eyes never leaving Obi-Wan's, moved the finger in and out of his mouth in exaggeration, sucking the slick digit thoroughly. He grinned wickedly, and grasped the Padawan around his waist pulling him close. Obi-Wan cried out in protest when the Sith bit into his neck, drawing blood

"W-W-Why are you doing this?" Obi-Wan stuttered.

Maul pulled back and regarded him silently for a moment. "You are my revenge," he whispered finally.

Obi-Wan gazed at him, uncomprehending.

"It's so much easier if you don't resist, little Jedi, " Maul ran a finger along the top of Obi- Wan's leggings, and started unlacing them. "You can always pretend I'm your beloved Master."

Obi-Wan found he couldn't breathe.

"Yes, little one. I've been inside here," he tapped the Padawan's forehead. "I know of your secret desires for your Master," the Sith stroked his face gently, almost lovingly.

"His naked body gleaming with sweat as he pounds into you. Your head thrown back in ecstacy, as he kneels between your smooth thighs, pleasuring you. The endless days of longing for him, and hiding it. The endless nights with him lying in the room next to you. Touching yourself, only to bring more longing to have that hard body pressed against yours. It's too bad your Jedi Council forbid such a relationship until you were a Knight."

Obi-Wan trembled with fury. He desperately tried to calm himself.

Maul paused closing his eyes, and inhaled deeply. "Yesssss , I can feel the hate flowing through you. Embrace it. It's all you have left now, my apprentice... goooood, You want to hurt me don't you? Go ahead, give in to your hate."

Obi-Wan eyed the Sith warily, undecided.

"You know, " Maul continued. "It's so tragic that your Master died before you told him of your desires. You can't fuck a corpse."

Obi-Wan gave a strangled cry of rage and lashed out, his fist connecting with the Sith's jaw. Maul paused and shrugged his shoulders rolling his neck with an audible crack. He grinned evilly, and slowly licked the blood from his split lip.

"Well done, but you're going to have to do better than that."

Obi-Wan drew in ragged gasps, appalled that he allowed this creature to taunt him into giving in to his darker emotions, and then invisible bonds were trapping his arms against the wall.

Maul leaned down and gave a hard yank on Obi-Wan's leggings, pulling them to the floor.

" Please, don't," Obi-Wan moaned brokenly as he was bared to the Sith's hungry gaze.

"Yes," Maul stroked the inside of Obi-Wan's thighs. "You belong to me now, Kenobi. Every luscious inch of you," he slid a finger into Obi-Wan's cleft and teased the tight opening, pushing inside, as his mouth closed over Obi-Wan's limp organ.

This isn't happening! Obi-Wan's screamed in his mind. This should be Qui-Gon, not this...this... thing touching him, however; he could not stop his body's response to the expert mouth and tongue that moved up and down his hardening shaft, as the gloved finger inside him moved in and out, stimulating his most sensitive gland. Then a second finger joined the first, and the Sith increased the pressure with his mouth as he thrust deeply. Obi-Wan bit his lip, trying to hold back his climax, but couldn't, he gasped and came, spilling into the Sith's eager mouth. Maul released his grip, and Obi-Wan slid shuddering to the floor, hiding his face with his hands in shame. He didn't resist when the Sith pulled off his remaining tunics, nor when he felt himself being pushed back to the floor. But when the Sith knelt between his legs spreading them with his own, pulling at his pants to free his erection, Obi-Wan began to struggle again. He frantically tried to call Qui-Gon through their bond, even though he knew the Sith would block it, even though he knew it was probably too late.

//Master! Qui-Gon! //

Maul scowled at him. "How careless of me. I meant to take care of that earlier."

"Wha...?" Maul grabbed his head with both hands before Obi-Wan could even think to move away. His eyes widened as he felt the Sith's mind invading his own, and he realized the intent.

"No!! You can't! No!"

But it was useless, the Sith's mind was probing, searching, and finally found the precious bond he had with Qui-Gon. Obi-Wan felt a searing pain as that bond was slowly wrenched from him.

"So," Maul muttered. "The Jedi still lives. No, matter. His Force signature is weak. He will die very soon."

With a harsh thrust of mind against mind, Obi-Wan felt the last tendrils of his Master/Apprentice bond severed. The pain was unbearable. He screamed over and over, then mercifully all went black.

Obi-Wan awoke to darkness. He sat up and reached out with his senses. He recoiled in horror when he realized he could no longer feel the Force. His hands flew to his neck instinctively searching for a force inhibiting collar. Finding none, he discovered he was still naked. Where was he? why couldn't he feel the Force? Where was the Sith Lord? Are we still on the ship? It was then he heard a soft rustling. Where was it coming from? Obi-Wan strained to see through the darkness. It was getting louder. He felt something brush by his bare foot, and drew in a sharp beath. He felt things crawling on him, crawling on his arms and legs, crawling on his face.

Suddenly, a dim light came on and Obi-Wan looked around him in horror. Corellian roaches. He shuddered and slapped at one crawling up his arm, squashing it. There were hundreds of them swarming into the small room, on the floor, the walls. They were coming up through a huge crack in the floor. The mass of small bodies was so immense they were quickly filling up the tiny room. Obi-Wan backed towards the farthest corner from the hole in the floor. He could hear the sickening sound of shells cracking as the insects were crushed under his weight, and his stomach lurched queasily. Then there were to many of them. They surged over him. Pressing his back against the wall, Obi-Wan brought a hand to his mouth and nose covering them protectively. His voice was a soundless scream in his mind.

Queen Amidala gazed silently at the still form before her, grasping the limp hand gently.

"Is Master Qui-Gon going to die?" Anakin asked timidly from behind her.

Amidala sighed heavily and shook her head. "I don't know Ani." Her medical team had done all they could for the Jedi. She just had to hope it was enough. It was now left to Qui-Gon.

"And Jedi Kenobi?"

Amidala turned to look at the young boy who had just so recently been uprooted from his home and mother.

"We haven't found him Ani. They're still searching." A soft moan made her turn back to the figure on the bed. Qui-Gon was tossing restlessly, calling out for his missing apprentice. He had done so ever since Panaka and the guards had brought him to the sick bay. So far her men had found no trace of the young Padawan. The soft woosh of the doors alerted them to new visitors.

"Panaka...Senator," the Queen acknowledged.

"Such a terrible tragedy your Highness."

"Yes, Senator it is. Has there been any word of survivors?" she asked. The Naboo's victory over the Viceroy had been short lived by the news of the destruction of the Jedi Temple.

Panaka stepped forward. "None have been found yet your Highness," he told her gravely.

"And Kenobi?"

"Nothing there either I'm afraid, your Highness."

"How is he?"

"He's still unconscious, Senator. "

"Your Highness, you are needed outside," Panaka said.

"Very well, come on Ani." They all turned to leave. Suddenly a loud cry came from Qui-Gon, as his back arched up off the bed; his body began to convulse and sweat broke out on the broad forehead.

"Droid!" the Queen called in desperation. The medical droid moved to the bed checking the screens that were monitoring the Jedi's life signs.

"What is it? What's wrong with him?" she asked.

"Possibly his body's reaction to fever that set in from his wound. We don't know enough about the Jedi to know for sure. I'm sorry, my Queen," the droid informed her. As suddenly as it started, it stopped and Qui-Gon's body returned to its limp state on the bed. What they didn't know was it was at this exact moment that Maul had ripped the bond between Master and Apprentice.

"The readings are all normal now," the droid noted.

"Your Highness, I'm sorry but this cannot wait," Panaka said gently.

Amidala reluctantly turned away from the Jedi, and came face to face with a sobbing Anakin.

"Oh, Ani. He'll be alright," she engulfed the youngster in a tight hug. "Come on, " she stopped at the door. "Senator, will you stay with him?"

"Of course, your Highness."

"Thank you," she took one last lingering look at the Jedi then left. Anakin and Panaka followed her.

The Senator moved closer to the Jedi Master who moaned slightly and turned over.

"Obi-Wan."

"That hurt didn't it Jedi? It's going to hurt a lot more very soon. I can promise you that," Senator Palpatine laughed so loud, he drew some startled looks from the medical droids bustling about in the next room.

Part 3

Time ceased to have meaning for Obi-Wan Kenobi. He pulled his knees to his chest, wrapping his arms around himself for warmth. How long he had been left in the small cell he didn't know. He briefly wondered if they were just going to leave him to die. It felt like he had been confined for weeks, when he knew it had really only been a day or two. He couldn't remember the last time he'd had anything to eat or drink. No one had even set foot in the room since he'd been there that he'd noticed.

He couldn't stop rubbing at his skin, feeling the creepy legs and antennae still on him. He'd endured the roaches crawling all over him, and held a hand over his mouth to keep the bugs from entering. But when they began to seek out every opening into his body, he'd become consumed with sheer terror. They'd tried to crawl into his nostrils, scurrying and pushing, crawling around his ears, seeking the opening there. He'd begun to scream and couldn't stop, passing out shortly after. When he awoke there had been no sign of the horrid things.

He leaned his head against the cool wall and groaned. His throat ached from screaming and his head and soul throbbed from the freshly severed bond between him and Qui-Gon. Rubbing his eyes wearily he wondered if Qui-Gon was still alive. He remembered the Sith saying something to that fact before he had succumbed to unconsciousness. His vision blurred as the thought touched him that Qui-Gon was probably one with the force by now. Obi-Wan didn't see how his Master could survive the fatal wound inflicted on him by the Sith.

He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. He couldn't imagine his life without his Master by his side, training him, guiding him, laughing with him, loving him. Although the latter was mostly Obi-Wan's feelings, he knew his Master loved him, but he didn't know if he loved him the way Obi-Wan had come to love Qui-Gon. As a man loves another man. 'I wish we could have talked more,' he thought sadly. In the last year or so, Qui-Gon had become increasingly harsh in attitude towards Obi-Wan. He seemed to only have negative comments on his Padawan's abilities, and Obi-Wan had felt the distance grow between them, even affecting their training bond. Although Qui-Gon had never been one to heap on the praise, he had until recently usually responded with warm encouragement.

When the criticisms began, Obi-Wan had worked harder to please his Master. Then Qui- Gon had practically thrown him away in front of the entire council, asking that Anakin become his new Padawan.

Still he loved Qui-Gon with all his heart and soul even though their relationship had been strained in the last moments. He had been forbidden by the code to reveal his feelings until he was a Knight, and in just a few short minutes the opportunity to tell his Master how he felt was gone forever.

He was startled out of his reverie when without warning, the door hissed open, and Darth Maul entered carrying a flask of water.

"Hello, little one."

Obi-Wan stared mutely at the floor.

Maul smiled and walked over to where he was huddled in the corner. "That's quite a set of lungs you have. Your screams could be heard all over this sector," he knelt down in front of his captive, reaching out and stroking the Padawan's face. Obi-Wan jerked away from the unwanted touch.

"Where are we?" his voice sounded gravelly and his throat was on fire.

"You're on board my Master's space station," Maul told him. "He's away on important business, but he will return very soon."

"Good for him," Obi-Wan replied sarcastically.

"You know, he did the same to me," Maul grabbed Obi-Wan's arm, examining the numerous scratches the insects had left on him. His tone was almost sympathetic.

"What?" Obi-Wan couldn't take his eyes of the horns that adorned the tattooed head. He wondered if the Sith had been born with them.

"My Master. He use to put Dinkos in my bed at night."

"He did? " Obi-Wan didn't want to feel sorry for this monster in front of him.

"Yes," Maul replied softly. "You know a Dinko secrets stinking venom when startled. I was locked in with them all night. My skin was inflamed and my eyes were swollen the next morning.

He ran a gloved hand down the inside of Obi-Wan's bare thigh.

Obi-Wan slapped the hand away. "Then you of all people should know how horrible it is," he snarled.

"Yes, but therein lies lesson number three. That which you suffer also makes you stronger."

"Suffering leads to the dark side," Obi-Wan spat back at him.

Maul laughed and sat down beside the young Jedi. He slowly dipped his finger into the flask, making ripples in the calm water.

"Yes, and you're suffering aren't you little Jedi?"

Obi-Wan tried not to eye the water. His aching throat making it all but impossible.

"Ask me," Maul prompted softly.

Obi-Wan looked up at him, licking his dry lips. He didn't want anything from the dark lord, but he didn't know if and when it would be offered again.

"Please," he finally whispered.

Without a word, Maul handed him the flask. Obi-Wan swallowed the cool liquid greedily. It tasted wonderful, and he could feel some of his strength returning. He dipped his own finger into the liquid and rubbed it into his dry cracked lips. The flask was yanked from his hand before he could finish the rest.

"Hey!"

"There's plenty more where this came from, " Maul set the flask behind him. "But there is something you must do for me first."

Obi-Wan sighed. What more would this Sith take from him?

"You must sever your last tie to your Master."

"What are you talking about?"

Maul brought a hand up and fingered his Padawan braid.

"Never!" Obi-Wan hissed defiantly. It was the last thing that marked him as Qui-Gon's. He would not part with it.

"You will not eat, drink, or bathe until that braid is cut, and you will cut it." Maul threatened softly.

"I won't do it," Obi-Wan repeated stubbornly.

Maul's fingers wrapped around his braid and jerked him roughly forward. The Sith's hot mouth pressed over the Jedi's, devouring him until the young man was lightheaded and gasping for air. Before Obi-Wan could recover, the Sith reached into his cloak, pulling out a syringe, and plunged it into the soft skin at the back of Obi-Wan's neck.

"You will change your mind, my apprentice," Maul stood up shoving the empty syringe back into his tunics. He picked up the flask of water and upended it, pouring the remaining contents over Obi-Wan's head. Obi-Wan gasped as the cold water coursed over his bare skin. He was so thirsty; he almost licked the water from his body.

"I will be back shortly. I suggest by then you decide to cooperate." Maul stalked from the room. The door hissed softly closed behind him.

"When Tatooine freezes over!" Obi-Wan shouted at the closed door, bringing his hand to the sore spot on his neck. His head was spinning, and he felt nauseated. He didn't even feel it when his head connected with the floor.

He was falling into a dark void. He seemed to fall forever, then the ground rushed up to meet him and he landed with a painful thud. He struggled to his feet, glancing around. A swirling mist surrounded him, and caressed him like the hands of a lover. A dim halo of light lit the shadows and gloom. Mist swirled past his face. It parted before him, and a tunnel stood in his path. He began making his way towards the tunnel when a familiar voice called to him.

"Obi-Wan"

Qui-Gon Jinn walked out of the haze.

"Master," he breathed in bewilderment. "But, I thought you were dead," he tentatively reached out and gasped when his hand passed cleanly through Qui-Gon's mid-section.

Qui-Gon Jinn became very real when a hand reached out and clamped down tight on Obi- Wan's wrist. He gazed questioningly into the indigo eyes. They were filled with pain, and something else, something he couldn't identify.

"Yes, Obi-Wan, I am dead." he said solemnly, then the eyes hardened and burned blood red. "And it's all your fault," he hissed.

Obi-Wan pulled back in shock. This couldn't be his Master speaking, but weren't these his exact thoughts as he'd seen Qui-Gon struck down by the Sith Lord? He tried to free his wrist, but the grip Qui-Gon had on him was immovable. .

"I never should have taken you as my Padawan. You always were too brash and impatient. I knew you would be my undoing."

"No, Master...you don't mean that," his voice was a barely choked whisper.

Suddenly Qui-gon doubled over clutching at his stomach, releasing his vicelike grip.

"It hurts, Obi-Wan. Why does it hurt so much?" the beautiful indigo eyes were back, pleading with him now. "I'm so cold, Obi-WanÉso cold."

Instinctively he reached out to his distraught Master. Qui-Gon pulled his arm back, and Obi- Wan had a brief second to register the now deformed hands, long claws visible at the end. Then they were arching down, slicing into the side of his face, slamming him to the ground. Qui-Gon stood over him as he held a hand to his smarting cheek, the blood flowing freely between his shaking fingers.

"Time for you to join me, Obi-Wan. Time for you to die." the claws pulled back again preparing to strike the killing blow. Obi-Wan began backing away while raising his arms in a futile attempt to deflect the blow.

"Master! Don't!"

He heard the claws slicing through the air, and the mist swirled past his face. He was back in his cell. His hand brushed along an unblemished cheek. No cuts. 'It wasn't real' he thought, sighing with relief. He had no idea what was going on, but he had some pretty nasty suspicions. He was certain Maul had used some form of mind-altering substance on him; nevertheless, shaken to the core he buried his head in his arms and sobbed.

In the medical bay on Naboo, the real Qui-Gon Jinn slowly awakened and opened his eyes. Anakin, who had been idly tossing a ball in the corner of the room, turned at the sharp intake of breath. He dropped the ball, and ran to the Jedi Master's side.

"Master Qui-Gon! You're awake." the boy's smile was brilliant.

Qui-Gon blinked rapidly bringing the boy's face into focus. He whispered a soft "Ani" his voice strained from disuse. Anakin grabbed the chair behind him, sitting down he broke into a steady stream of nervous chatter.

"We were so worried about you! I was so scared you were going to die, but you're awake now. You're going to be just fine. I know it!!" the boy continued oblivious to the Jedi Master's efforts to try to speak to him. "Did you know I blew up the droid control ship? You should have seen it! All the droids down here stopped working, and PadmeÉerrÉQueen Amidala was able to take back her city!" Anakin laid his hand on Qui-Gon's shoulder. "And don't you worry, Master Qui-Gon sir. We'll find Jedi Kenobi real soon. They're out searching for him now."

Qui-Gon moaned softly. The memory of what had befallen his apprentice coming back to him in a terrifying rush. He began to jerk and thrash on the small bed. Anakin stared openmouthed frightened by the scene unfolding in front of him.

"Nooooo!" Qui-Gon cried frantically. The monitors beside him began blinking and beeping wildly.

"Ani! What happened?" Amidala rushed into the room, along with several others.

The youngster shook his head, unable to speak.

"Obi-Wan!" Qui-Gon called again, a single tear slid down his face, then his body convulsed and went limp.

"Droid!" the Queen shouted desperately. She clutched young Skywalker to her.

The med droid stood up from his bent position over the Jedi Master.

"I'm sorry, your Highness. He's gone into shock. That combined with the weakness from his wound and fever, he may not survive."

The Queen stared at him mutely. Her face hardened and she laid a hand on Anakin's shoulder, knowing the boy didn't need to be seeing or hearing this.

"Alright, do what you can for him. Everyone out! " she ordered sweeping the boy into her arms and stalking from the room. All followed her but one. The med droid placed another blanket over the unconcious Jedi, gave him an injection, and left to check on patients in the next room. A figure clad in dark robes stepped out from the corner.

Senator Palpatine moved to the Jedi, placing both his hands on each side of Qui-Gon's head he whispered.

"No, Jedi. You can't die on me. Not just yet. I still have plans for you," he sent a flood of healing energy into the sick man. The monitors went to a normal rhythm, and Qui-Gon's features relaxed. His chest moved steadily up and down. Palpatine stood back and laughed softly, then slipped from the room.

Part 4

Peering through the warm gooey haze that surrounded him, Qui-Gon Jinn awoke to a world of bacta and pain. He tried to speak, but couldn't talk due to the respirator between his lips. He attempted to stretch and get more comfortable when he felt a searing pain in his side. He twisted around trying to get a better look at the cause, hissing in pain for his efforts and momentarily blinding himself when bubbles issued forth in a stream from his respirator. When his vision cleared, he could just make out the ugly red gash along his midriff. At the sight of the wound, his memory came flooding back. He closed his eyes against the onslaught. The mission to Naboo, the fight with the Sith, and the blow to his face that had momentarily stunned him. He remembered the terrible pain as the Sith's blade struck him down.

The vague memory of his Padawan being dragged away from him. Qui-Gon's eyes snapped open. Obi-Wan! His eyes widened as he instinctively reached along their training bond only to be met by silence. What had happened to their bond? He sucked in a deep breath, trying to clear his muddy thoughts.

Suddenly he had an overwhelming image of Obi-Wan in terrible pain, and needing his help. The Sith's menacing features flashed before his eyes, laughing at him, mocking him. Qui-Gon saw the black detonator appear in the gloved hand, felt the huge explosion of energy as thousands became one with Force, and remembered the destruction of the Temple. He surged upward in the bacta tank. His white-hot rage a soundless scream within his mind.

*

Obi-Wan Kenobi awoke from a restless slumber when the droids came to his cell, throwing clothing at his feet, with the exception of boots, and ordered him to dress. He quickly shrugged into the dark colored garments appreciative of the warmth they gave if not for the style. He'd briefly wondered if the Sith was having cold air continuously pumped into the small room on purpose as his hands and feet had both gone numb a long time ago. He rubbed them vigorously trying to restore circulation, watching as the droids left without another word. Taking a deep breath, he settled down to rest and wait for whatever the Sith had in store for him next. It would be so easy to sleep and forget. Forget the aches and pains in his body. Forget muscles cramped beyond reprieve. Forget his stomach which growled almost constantly now….Forget to breathe.

Obi-Wan knew that leaving him in this place and depriving him of food was part of the Sith's plan to break his spirit, but nothing the Sith did could compare to the agony of losing his Master. Qui-Gon was dead and nothing could match that pain. His entire life had changed in a instant. Everything and everyone he'd ever known and loved were dead, destroyed by the Sith Lord. He sighed wearily, drawing his legs up to his chest and cradled his head in the crook of his arm. Could any of the Jedi have escaped such a devastating explosion, was he truly the last Jedi now? He tried to push down the surge of despair that threatened to overwhelm him.

He could no longer fool himself; he'd felt their passing into the force after Maul had pressed the detonator. The people that had taken him as one of their own, making him a part of their family, were gone and there was no going back. Nobody knew where he was; no one would come to his aid. He had to face the fact that he was at the Sith's mercy. There would be no rescue. He had never felt so lost and alone. He was disturbed to find himself yearning for oblivion.

Obi-Wan rolled onto his side and curled up attempting to sleep, but gave up a short time later. Closing his eyes, just made his mind replay the Sith's blade slicing into Qui-Gon's body. He saw Qui-Gon collapse to the floor, a look of shock on his face, realizing he'd been struck. Sleeping brought the horrid visions, so vivid that he didn't want to remember them. He figured they were being caused by whatever drug Darth Maul was giving him. Obi- Wan had always thought dreams were a doorway into the subconscious, something to be revered. Now, he was finding he didn't ever want to dream again. All too soon, his stomach began to protest again in need. Groaning, he sat up and crossed his legs, sinking into a meditative position.

Closing his eyes, he tried to clear his mind, and settled into a light trance. It worked, until his stomach rumbled loudly. Opening his eyes, he cocked a brow and smiled sardonically. One thing was for sure, he was going to be a lot thinner. It was a long time before Darth Maul came for him again. Obi-Wan heard footsteps before the door opened and the Sith entered. Obi-Wan sat up, quickly pulling out of his thoughts, and looked up at his captor warily. Maul leaned against the wall, folding his arms across his chest.

This Sith was an enemy unlike any Obi-Wan had ever encountered. His appearance was as frightening as his power. He was strong not just in body, but also in mind, and he'd demonstrated that power by forcing his way into Obi- Wan's mind, ripping out the bond he 'd shared with Qui-Gon. Eyes from a nightmare stared at him intently. Obi-Wan couldn't help but note the Sith seemed to reek of confidence, almost as if he knew he'd already won. Which, Obi-Wan thought ruefully, he already had. The Jedi no longer stood in the way. What could he do to stop them? Sith and Padawan regarded each other silently. Finally, Obi-Wan could stand it no longer.

"What have you done to me? I can't feel the Force. What are you injecting me with? " The questions came out in a rush. He was tired of feeling out of control and wanted answers.

Unperturbed, Maul straightened and began walking towards him. "So many questions young Jedi. I haven't done anything to you that you haven't done to yourself."

"What? What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Obi-Wan glared up at the monster that towered above him like some dark god. The Sith Lord shrugged and did not answer. Another uncomfortable silence settled between them. The Sith's face revealed nothing and the tension in the little room was slowly becoming unbearable.

"Well, my Jedi?" came the sugary whisper.

"Well what? and the hell I'm yours!" Obi-Wan growled, wanting to wipe that smug grin off the Sith's face.

The yellow eyes darkened with anger and Maul's fists clenched tightly at his side. "I would be very careful if I were you," he said in an ominous voice.

Almost dismissively, Obi-Wan said, "Yes, no doubt you would." He wasn't sure what he hoped to gain by

taunting the Sith, but he was sick of Maul's games.

"I advise you not to anger me, my Apprentice."

With two large steps the Sith was in front of him, reaching down and grabbing a handful of tunic, jerking Obi-Wan to his feet. Before Obi-Wan could do anything, he felt Maul's hand in the center of his chest and found himself being shoved viciously. He caught himself just before he fell, and turned around glaring indignantly at his tormentor.

"Your Apprentice?" he sneered, his chin in the air in defiance. "If it's the last thing I do, I'm going to be the worst apprentice you've ever seen." His pride and training wouldn't allow for anything less, and he'd be damned if he'd cooperate with this monster in any way. " I'd rather die than be your Apprentice, Sith Lord." Then Maul was on him, wrapping a gloved hand in his Padawan braid, yanking his head back painfully.

The tattooed face was inches from his own, and Obi-Wan stared into eyes bright with barely concealed fury.

"You just might, little Padawan…you just might," he hissed softly.

The Sith's breath was hot and foul. Sickened, Obi-Wan turned his head away. "Come." Maul ordered gruffly, and Obi-Wan struggled against him as he was dragged out of the small cell. Obi-Wan steeled himself and pinned his fists to his sides, fighting to keep upright. His legs were numb and weak from the cold, while the pounding in his head made it hard for him to focus on much else. He remained silent as they went down corridor after corridor. The station was obviously still under construction. Workers went about their tasks only pausing briefly as the Sith Lord and his captive went past. They rounded a corner and Maul palmed the door lock bringing him into what appeared to be a training salle. Obi-Wan blinked letting his eyes adjust from days of darkness to the sudden flood of bright light. Maul led him to the mat on the floor and retrieved two long staffs from their holders nearby.

"Do you know how to use one of these?" the Sith inquired throwing one at him.

Obi-Wan gaped at him incredulously as he caught it, licking his lips that were badly cracked from lack of water. "You want to spar? Now?" What madness was this, he wondered. He had expected to be punished for his behavior earlier but like this? He turned the staff over in his hand calculating the weight. He held no illusions. He knew he was too weak to duel the Sith, much less do it and win.

"No time like the present, my Apprentice," Maul taunted him, and crouched into a ready position.

"I'm not your Apprentice," Obi-Wan snapped and mirrored Maul's stance. He should have known better.

Maul was playing more mind games. If the Sith wanted a fight, he'd give him one. They began to circle each other slowly.

"Tell me Jedi. Why do you tie yourself to a man who didn't want you in the first place? "

The comment caught Obi-Wan so completely off guard that Maul was able to take advantage of his immobility and Obi-Wan watched his feet fly above his head as the Sith swept him deftly to the floor.

Maul gazed down at him. "You wanted him to be your Master so badly, didn't you?" His tone was nearly placating.

Furious with himself for being taken down so easily, Obi-Wan deftly jumped back up to face his foe. The room spun from his efforts.

"What would you know about it?" He spat, holding a hand to his aching temple. He was disturbed to feel the rage inside him beginning to simmer.

"What would I know about it? You fool!" Maul hissed, clenching his fist. "How soon you forget? I have been inside every inch of your mind. I have seen your thoughts. I own your mind as I will soon own your body and your soul… Come and get me little Jedi," the gloved hand raised, beckoning.

"All you know is hate, and you'll never own me!" Obi-Wan cried, forgetting himself and taking the bait. He lunged forward, swinging viciously at Maul's head.

Maul evaded it easily, laughing at the weak effort. "Surely you can do better than that? Oh and I already own you, little one. You just don't know it yet. But we were talking about you now, weren't we?"

They circled again, each looking for an opening in the other's defense.

"You tried so hard to please him, didn't you? " Maul continued. "All those times you came home exhausted because you were doing something for him. But did he acknowledge all your hard work? Did he care about all the extra hours you put in?"

Obi-Wan could not stop the fresh rush of anger and disbelief that flowed through him. What kind of game was the Sith playing now? He'd gotten over that resentment towards Qui-Gon a long time ago…hadn't he?

"No," Obi-Wan whispered, not knowing why he answered. He gave an involuntary yelp when the Sith's staff slammed into his back, catching him unaware yet again, and dropped him roughly to his knees. Maul made no move to finish him.

"Oh, you thought he cared about you, but you saw it in his behavior. How he avoided you. Wouldn't have anything to do with you outside of your training. Would he?"

"No," the Padawan replied a little louder, getting cautiously to his feet. He wanted desperately to close his eyes and shut out the hateful voice, to be anywhere else but here. What little strength and resistance he had left was slowly draining out of him.

The Sith's eyes were bright with glee as he watched the pained expression on his captive's features. "What about the time you went against the code? Flirting with your Master, you did everything but throw yourself at him, and did he even notice?"

Oh, but Maul had found the perfect bit of information to use against him. Had no part of his mind been left untouched? It made him furious that Maul even had a hint of how he felt about Qui-Gon.

"No!" He shouted, desperately looking to find some foothold, something that would anchor him. The hate swelled within him, and he wanted nothing more than to let it overtake him.

"So you slept with someone else, hoping to make him jealous. You came home reeking of sex, and he didn't care, did he? He didn't care who you fucked!"

"Shut up!" Obi-Wan howled.

Enraged, he rushed the Sith just as Maul was turning to attack. Obi-Wan brought the staff over Maul's head and against his throat. He started to dig into the thing's throat when Maul suddenly stepped back and lurched forward, flipping Obi-Wan through the air and throwing him hard onto the mat. Obi-Wan was beginning to feel very familiar with the ceiling as he glanced at it for the second time, trying to catch his breath. Then Maul was straddling him, throwing the staff out of Obi-Wan's hands. The Sith's staff pressing into his throat, bringing a wave of dizziness with it.

"And you hate him for it." It was not a question. "Don't you?… Don't you?… Don't you?"

The taunting went on and on until Obi-Wan could stand it no longer.

"Yes!! I hate him for it!!" He shrieked, the words out of his mouth before he could stop them. His jaw dropped in shock, eyes widening in surprise. He didn't hate his Master! What had made him say such a thing? He knew his face mirrored the confusion and disbelief he felt.

"No, that's not true! I didn't mean that. I don't hate him…I..."

Maul ignored his struggle for control. "Don't be ashamed of your anger, it will cleanse you," he said dispassionately, sitting back on Obi-Wan's knees. "Cut the braid. Destroy the last tie to a man that didn't want you." He reached into his tunic and pulled out a small knife, holding it inches from Obi-Wan's face.

"Do it," Maul prompted. Obi-Wan stared at the shining blade. His own hand reached up to take the hilt, pulling it from Maul's grasp while his other hand grasped his Padawan braid. The last thing he had left of his Master. The braid which Qui-Gon had woven a piece of his own hair into so long ago, fusing Master and Apprentice as one. Maul threw his head back and laughed.

"I'm your Master now, little Jedi."

Obi-Wan blinked rapidly; the strange spell broken.

"I'll never join you!" he hissed through clenched teeth, bringing the knife up, and slicing through tunic into the Sith's forearm.

Maul gasped with surprise, bringing a hand up to stop the blood which was already flowing freely from the wound. Obi-Wan tried to take advantage of the Sith's distraction to throw Maul off him and get to his feet, but Maul was too quick. The Sith grabbed his wrist, and bent it painfully until the knife fell with a clatter to the floor from his numb fingers.

"You'll pay for that!" Maul growled as he whipped an arm around Obi- Wan's waist and pulled him close, slinging him like a sack of feed over the Sith's shoulder.

"Put me down!" Obi-Wan pummeled the Sith's back to no avail. He was too weak to free himself, and when Maul's hand snaked between his legs, squeezing hard enough to immobilize him and bring tears to his eyes, he ceased struggling. Maul carried the young Padawan back to the dimly lit cell, and deposited his squirming bundle in an ungraceful heap on the floor. Obi-Wan jumped back as quickly as he could when the Sith began to advance on him.

"I am your Master now. You will show me respect! " Maul yelled, fierce in his anger as he forced Obi-Wan's back against the wall. Trying to put as much space between himself and the Sith, Obi-Wan feinted to one side attempting to slip by, but Maul was fast blocking his escape. Obi-Wan knew there was nowhere to go. He flinched as the Sith's protruding horns moved inch by inch closer to his unprotected skull. I can't even run from him. He thought despairingly.

"Respect ! I'll never respect you. You're a Sith and a filthy murderer."

Suddenly, Maul's hand clamped down on the back of the Padawan's neck, pulling Obi-Wan forward, and the Sith's lips crushed over his own, lithe body pressing Obi-Wan into the wall. The Sith's tongue forced entry, tasting of smoke and fire, devouring him while the other hand slid from the wall down to his unprotected groin. Obi-Wan gave a muffled gasp of surprise at the unexpected and revolting touch. Before he could react, Maul broke the kiss and grabbed his arms, twirling him around like a top. A hand cruelly grasped his hair, yanking his head back so far that Obi-Wan wondered if his neck would break. He yelped as he felt the sharp sting of a needle in the tender flesh at the base of his neck. Not again!

"Don't!" Obi-Wan cried frantically, struggling to free himself which was impossible with the Sith crushing him with his body.

"Damn you!"

"I think you need time to reconsider your attitude." Maul said calmly and released him, throwing him to the floor.

"Don't suppose there's any chance of getting a meal while I contemplate that." Obi-Wan muttered obstinately, putting as much distance as he could between himself and the Sith as possible. He wrapped his arms protectively around himself. He didn't really care if he ever ate again or not, preferring to starve to death just to spite the Sith. But he didn't want Maul to know just how shaken he was. The last thing he wanted was to go back to sleep. He shook his head trying to clear it as waves of dizziness washed over him.

"You should have thought of that before." Maul said sourly, standing over him.

"I thought you wanted me alive. You won't be able to torment me if I starve to death!" Obi-Wan protested sarcastically.

He had to keep talking… anything to stay awake. The Sith's features were turning into one encompassing blur.

"Let's see how defiant you are after a couple more days without food. hmmm? Lesson number five, my Apprentice. You respect your Master."

He heard Maul say and listened as without another word the Sith stalked out, the door closing behind him with a soft whoosh. Obi-Wan screamed in frustration, slamming his fist into the wall. As the drug began dragging him into darkness, his last thought was that once again he'd allowed the Sith to goad him into anger

Part 5

"I can't believe they're gone." Qui-Gon said quietly, moving into a more comfortable position in his medical bed.

Captain Panaka, who had visited him daily since he awoke in the Bacta tank, handed him a mug of warm Cha which Qui-Gon immediately tried to refuse.

"I don't need it," he protested.

"Drink it Master Jinn. You need it more than you think you do." Panaka chided gently.

Qui-Gon stared at him for a moment then slowly nodded and took the offered drink, cupping it with his hands. He took a sip of the warm liquid then leaned back squeezing his eyes tightly shut as if it would keep out the truth, keep out the pain.

"So many innocent lives lost," he whispered, growing distant as he focused on another place, another time. "They had no

warning, no chance." He swallowed hard and started when he realized his grip on the warm drink had become almost painful.

"We will do anything we can for you Master Jinn. Naboo owes the Jedi a great debt." Panaka said.

Qui-Gon gave him a tight smile and set his drink down.

"Thank you Captain, but I am a man without a home, and a Jedi without a people. The only thing I care about right now is

finding my Apprentice."

Panaka took off his cap and wiped his brow in frustration. "We have exhausted every resource available looking for him. Of course, we will continue to do so, but the Sith Lord left no trail."

"No, he wouldn't have would he? He was well trained. I will find Obi- Wan." Qui-Gon said with a confidence he did not feel.

" I'll not lose another Padawan."

He was unconsciously clenching and unclenching his fist. He had lost Xanatos to the dark side, and he'd be damned if he let that happen to Obi- Wan as well. Even if he could locate the Sith, who had clearly threatened to attempt turning Obi-Wan to the darkside, he was growing more and more concerned about what he would find when he did. Under normal circumstances, Qui-Gon had no fear that his Padawan could overcome any obstacle put in his path, including temptation to the dark side. But this

was anything but normal circumstances. Obi-Wan was alone with an extremely powerful and cunning Sith Lord. He probably thought Qui-Gon was dead and with their training bond severed, which he knew had to be the Sith's doing, Qui-Gon had no

way to let Obi-Wan know he was alive except to find him. He'd been shocked to discover their bond had been broken. It was something that had always been there and now to suddenly not be; it was like a part of Qui-Gon had been lost along with it. He didn't need anyone to tell him that he had lost the most precious thing ever to come into his life. And I never told him. My Obi-Wan, where are you? Hold on, I'll find you. He pleaded fruitlessly along the broken bond, knowing Obi-Wan couldn't hear him. Panaka's voice lulled him out of his thoughts.

"You'll be of little help to your young friend if you don't get well first." He scolded, sliding into the chair next to the small bed.

"You should have died from that blow. It's a miracle you're alive and you're in no condition to go traipsing across the galaxy,

much less face that creature again." He hesitated before he spoke next. "You have considered the possibility…?"

Qui-Gon looked up sharply. "That Obi-Wan is dead?"

"W-w-well it is a possibility." Panaka stammered, taken aback by the fierce look that appeared in the Jedi Master's eyes.

For Qui-Gon that was anything but a possibility.

"No!" he refused to believe that, much less hear anyone else say it. "My Padawan is alive. I would know it if he were dead."

"But, you said your bond?" Panaka asked, confused.

Qui-Gon didn't give him the chance to finish. Throwing the covers back, he swung his legs over the side of the bed and

clambered unsteadily to his feet. Alarmed, Panaka reached out a hand to help steady the Jedi Master.

"And just where do you think you're going?"

Qui-Gon bit his lip allowing Panaka to support him, as pain radiated from his injured side. It was only one of a handful of times he'd been up since being hurt. He could barely tolerate the mothering look the Captain was giving him. Qui-Gon very rarely, if ever had been sick or injured, and he hated depending on anyone to take care of him. When the painful spasm had passed he straightened, and brushed the guard's arm away.

"Traipsing across the galaxy according to you." His tone was harsh. The Captain's face colored a deep red. Qui-Gon saw it and mentally kicked himself. He took a deep breath immediately releasing his anger and frustration into the force. No matter

what had happened to Obi-Wan, he couldn't allow his emotions to consume him, and cloud his judgement. Not when Obi-Wan needed him now more than ever. He needed to keep his wits about him if he was going to recover his missing apprentice. He'd just never liked feeling helpless and he'd never felt that way as much as he did right now. Damn this decrepit body! He cursed inwardly. If he hadn't fallen for the Sith's devious attack, Obi-Wan would at his side now, safe and sound.

"Master Jinn," Panaka's voice came softly from at his side, once again shaking him out of his thoughts. "You need to rest." The Captain insisted gently. "It's a miracle you're even alive."

Qui-Gon ran a hand through his thick mane in consternation.

"I can't lay here doing nothing any longer, Captain."

He grabbed his cloak from the chair beside his bed and slipped it on.

"I'm going to take a walk and try to clear my mind."

"I will have someone escort you." Panaka offered immediately.

Qui-Gon shook his head, padding softly to the door. "I'll be fine, this is something I need to do alone."

Panaka was not happy with that idea at all.

"Master Jinn!" he said loudly. "The Sith assassinated the Jedi. In case you have forgotten, you're one of them and that still makes you a target. You will need our protection."

Qui-Gon sighed, not wanting to be rude and go against their protocol, but the last thing he wanted was a bodyguard

looming over him right now, reminding him of how helpless he was.

"I'm going and I'm going alone." He said, face the picture of utter serenity until Panaka finally threw his arms in the air, giving up.

"This isn't a good idea," Panaka muttered to no one in particular.

"Tell them you couldn't stop me," Qui-Gon said from over his shoulder. Stubborn old man! The Captain thought furiously,

putting his hands on hips, glaring as the Jedi ambled out the door.

"You know how stubborn old men can be." Qui-Gon said, looking back at him a slight smile on his lips.

The door slid open and he quickly slipped through leaving an open-mouthed Panaka staring after him.

******************************************************** ****************

Qui-Gon shielded his eyes from the sudden brightness of the midday sun. He glanced around, adjusting to the glare. The Naboo bustled about him in an orderly fashion, still cleaning away the rubble after the battle against the Viceroy. Several were busy preparing booths at the market place in the square just a few meters from him. He sighed and decided to head towards the famous Theed gardens to avoid the crowds, politely turning down several offers of assistance along the way. He must look very bad indeed. Limping up to one of the garden's many pristine fountains, he perched himself on the warm outer rim of marble and dipped his hand in the clear cool water, tracing lazy circles with his finger. He tried not to look to long at the pale and haggard

face that stared back at him in the water's surface - a telltale sign of the ordeal he'd been through. A crisp breeze kissed his face and he closed his eyes, reveling in just being alive. The Naboo were busily going on with their lives. But how could he go on with his until he knew Obi-Wan was safe? He tried hard to push Panaka's words from his mind. Coruscant was destroyed and his Padawan had been spirited away from him into the clutches of a Sith Lord, but Obi-Wan couldn't be dead. Everything else had gone so badly that that option was unfathomable to him. He would not accept it. He had already lost too much and been

unable to prevent any of it. Some Jedi Master he was. He sighed sadly and shook his head. Imagining life without

Obi-Wan at his side was nearly impossible, so long he had been a part of it. His Padawan wasn't dead; it couldn't be any other way. Automatically, Qui-Gon reached along their once pulsating bond, flinching when again he met only a deep silence.

"I'll make this right Obi-Wan, I promise you that." He whispered to himself, closing his eyes tightly.

"It's not your fault, you know." A soft feminine voice said from behind him.

Startled, Qui-Gon's eyes flew open andhis gaze came to rest on a reflection of Padme looking back at him in the water. He whipped around as quickly as his injured side would allow.

"Your Highness?" he said questioningly, looking over her shoulderfor the usual entourage of guards and handmaidens,

surprised to see her completely alone.

She caught his glance. "I gave them some time off. I like being free to move among my people when I wish," she said with a

wave of her hand, referring to her disguise as a handmaiden. It was a good one and had fooled even him and Obi-Wan. She sat down gracefully beside him.

"You mean you dismissed them," he commented, knowing how headstrong the young queen could be. She was a formidable opponent, proving that with the battle against the Viceroy and gaining the trust of the Gungans. A brow quirked and

Padme gazed back at him with wide brown eyes.

" I ordered them to leave me." Qui-Gon laughed outright, the sound strange to his own ears, as he remembered his confrontation with the Captain, who also hadn't cared for his stubbornness to go without an escort. "Yes, " he said, "I had the same discussion with your Captain earlier."

"It seems were are both very much our own people Master Jinn." Her smile disappeared as she regarded him intently and repeated. "It's not your fault. You could not have prevented what happened."

Qui-Gon did not agree. He rubbed his chin between thumb and forefinger thoughtfully.

"I feel like there was something more I could have done, something to save them all, some insight that should have told me what was going to happen," he said softly, staring into the distance.

All of his friends, his life gone in the blink of an eye, and he hadn't seen it coming. He had no intention of letting the death of the Jedi go unanswered. The Sith would pay for what they had done. He would see to that personally. Padme's eyes were bright with compassion as she brushed a maple colored strand off one shoulder.

"There was nothing you could do. What's done is done. Do not blame yourself."

Pulling his cloak around him closer for warmth, Qui-Gon remembered something Master Yoda had said to him a long time ago when he had become discouraged after losing a sparring match. ~Learn to lose as well as win, a Jedi must~ The old teacher had said. But to lose…and at this cost? The price was just too big. The entire mission to Naboo had whispered of danger and deception. Obi-Wan had a bad feeling about it from the beginning, clearly voicing his distress while Qui-Gon had chosen to dismiss his Padawan's concerns as nothing more than a case of nerves. Obi-Wan had even wanted to go to the Council to

try and convince them to send another team in their place, but it was insisted that they take the assignment. How it had

ended thus, Qui-Gon would never know and he couldn't stop placing the blame on his own head. He sighed heavily and turned back to the Queen, unable to force words past the lump that he suddenly felt in his throat. Almost as if she'd read his thoughts, Padme said.

"If you had remained at the Temple, you too would be dead." She quieted as a group of workers passed by them then said. "My spies told me they believe it was an inside job."

Qui-Gon drew in a deep breath, causing a stab of pain in his side as he looked up at her sharply. "But, that would mean… " He trailed off. That would mean someone at the Temple had betrayed them. His mind raced with the possibilities, dozens of faces flashing before his eyes. He could not imagine anyone at the Temple capable of such an atrocity.

"But who? No. I just can't believe it. That's not possible."

"Still, your people would have been able to detect such a device, yes?" she asked.

"I should think so." Qui-Gon nodded. The full impact of the situation had not entirely hit him yet.

"I would think they had to have help to place such a device on Coruscant, Master Jinn, " Padme continued.

With a heavy heart he realized she was right and told her so.

"How do you think it was managed?" she wondered.

"I don't know," Qui-Gon mused, he stood stiffly and walked to the balcony overlooking the entrance to the gardens below. "I have to find Obi-Wan first." He couldn't think past anything else. She moved next to him, leaning beside him on the railing.

"You're in love with him aren't you?" Astonished by her perceptiveness, Qui-Gon could only stare at her, speechless.

He generally prided himself on being a very private person, keeping mostly to himself. He had not shared his feelings for his apprentice with anyone. It had taken him long enough to wrestle with his own desires without having someone else finding

out and causing more problems. He glanced at the plucky young queen and wondered what it was about her that seemed to compel him to share this with her. Maybe it was the fact that his entire life had been turned upside down in only a matter of minutes and she was here willing to listen. Slowly, he glanced up at her.

"Is it that obvious?"

He could feel the heat rising in his cheeks. She tilted her head, mouth curving upward at the corner.

" No I guessed, you just told me."

He snorted softly in amusement then exhaled deeply, forcing himself to relax. "It's forbidden really, to have a relationship

between Master and Padawan that is more than just that." He glanced at his hands, which were holding the railing in a vice-like grip. He slowly released them. " It can interfere with the training."

"Yes, Master Jinn, but would they have really stood in the way of true love? "

"It would have been frowned upon, but no they wouldn't have. "

"Do you think Obi-wan knew that they would have accepted it?" she asked.

He frowned, wondering where her questioning was going.

" No, he didn't. It wasn't exactly general knowledge -another way to discourage a Padawan from pursuing a relationship with his or her Master."

"Yet you are in love with him, why didn't you pursue it?" She said, pointedly. Qui-Gon thought for a moment then answered quietly, "Obi-Wan is my soul, my life, my breath. I feel lost without him. He means everything to me, but I pushed him away."

He could hear the guilt in his voice. So long he'd kept his true feelings hidden that he'd closed a little of himself off day by day. Pushing his Padawan away from him, so that Obi-Wan wouldn't discover his feelings. He'd wanted to tell Obi-Wan how he felt about him. To forget the past and allow someone into his heart again. But he couldn't allow what had happened before

to happen again. He'd finally decided to wait until after Obi-Wan was declared a Knight to tell him. Now, that time was lost. A lithe hand fell on his shoulder.

"Why?"

"Because of my first Padawan, Xanatos." His throat tightened painfully remembering his first apprentice. "I allowed myself to pursue a relationship with him before he was a Knight, regardless of what the council thought. It's a long story, but essentially he turned to the darkside and I was responsible for it." By the Gods, why was he telling her all this?

Padme 's eyes widened with understanding. "You thought that your relationship with Xanatos was the cause of his downfall? So, you didn't want history to repeat itself with Obi-Wan right?"

Qui-Gon faltered suddenly as the world spun before him. The queen quickly slid an arm under his and helped him to the steps where he could sit down. He thanked her and tried to catch his breath. "I couldn't risk making the same mistake and losing another Padawan. My heart couldn't have taken it either," he continued when the pain in his side had dissipated.

" I hid my feelings for Obi-Wan. In fact, I did everything I could to stay away from him. I doubled his workload and avoided being alone with him as much as I could. That was difficult considering we lived together and he was my student." Qui-Gon winced realizing he was using the past tense to describe his Padawan. "I cut myself off from him to protect him. Now

I've lost him and I never told him how I felt." He was chagrined to hear his voice crack on the last words.

"Master Jinn, I personally don't know a lot about the darkside but I don't think that loving someone would make them turn to it. You haven't lost him."

He glanced up at her quizzically. "What makes you so sure?"

She shrugged and smiled. "Oh, I don't know. Just a feeling I have." She leaned down and plucked a petal from one of the Rukh plants at her feet. Rubbing it in between her fingers thoughtfully, she said.

"You've had that feeling too, haven't you? You don't believe he's dead either."

"No!" Qui-Gon said immediately. "If anything, I 'm convinced he's alive even though our bond has been severed. No one can tell me different."

Padme slid down beside him and gave him a light slap on the knee. " Well then! You'll just have to tell him how you feel when

you find him won't you?"

It took Qui-Gon several moments to process that statement. He found himself again admiring her courage and boldness. Through everything, this young girl who was barely more than a child herself, had acted as a queen should -never losing sight of what was important.

"I don't know why I told you all that, " he muttered, evading her question, but she wouldn't be deterred.

"Maybe because you needed to. You will tell Obi-Wan when you find him. That's an order."

Qui-Gon's breath caught in his throat at the idea, but she was right. When he found Obi-Wan he had to tell him. "You don't give up do you?" he asked lightly.

She shook her head vigorously. "No."

"Yes, when I find Obi-Wan I will tell him," he sighed giving in.

A little girl in the garden below gave a sharp squeal as her playmate grabbed a handful of her hair, catching his attention. Parents quickly came to the little girl's aid and separated them.

"Where's Anakin?" Qui-Gon asked.

She plucked another petal. "He's playing with the other children. I thought it would be good for him to get out of that infirmary room."

The boy had stayed in the medical bay all this time? Padme confirmed his thoughts.

"He's been by your side the entire time," she added softly. "He's a remarkable young boy."

Qui-Gon nodded absently. He certainly was. And that was not including his midichlorian count which was off the charts. Young Anakin was another mistake Qui-Gon had made with Obi-Wan. First, he had become so enamored with the child that he

decided without so much as a thought to his Padawan that Obi-Wan was ready for his trials. He had made the decision for Obi-Wan. Second, he'd given Obi-Wan no warning whatsoever of what he was about to do, and had embarrassed him in front of the Council. Oh, outwardly Obi-Wan had covered his surprise and hurt, but Qui-Gon had been able to see it on his face, feel it in their bond. He had hurt his apprentice deeply, and there was nothing he could do to take it back. But he had been so

sure he was supposed to be the one to train the boy. Of course, Qui-Gon knew he was now free to train Anakin as he saw fit.

With no one to contest him.

"He destroyed the droid control ship."

That was news indeed. Qui-Gon blinked rapidly, amazed. The Jedi had long believed in the notion that a chosen one

would come and bring balance to the Force. Could Anakin Skywalker be that one? The fact that he had destroyed

the control ship just further supported Qui-Gon's belief that Anakin was meant to be a Jedi.

"I will see him as soon as I can," he murmured.

Padme gave him a searching look. "Naboo is conducting a memorial service for the Jedi tomorrow. We would like it very

much if you would be in attendance."

Qui-Gon immediately felt the aching emptiness inside him surge to the surface. With all the pain and grief of losing Obi-Wan, the loss of the temple was a pain had had not entirely let himself feel yet.

"I think that's a wonderful idea. I will be there." He promised solemnly.

"I only hope we can honor what they stood for," she said, standing up and dusting off her leggings. "I'm afraid I must get back. Please be careful, and if you get dizzy again go back to the med bay or call a droid immediately."

He couldn't help but feel touched by the genuine concern in her eyes.

"Thank you, your Highness," he said gruffly, standing himself. "For everything."

"You're quite welcome," she said, handing him the Rukh petals.

He took them without comment and watched as she headed back towards the palace. She hadn't gone a meter before she pivoted, turning back to him.

"Master Jinn, what would you have told him?" He blinked not quite sure at first what she meant and then he knew.

"I would have told him how empty my life was before he came."

She considered that for a moment then smiled, and disappeared into the throng of traders in the market place. Qui-Gon stifled a low moan as another stab of pain came from his tortured side and descended into the ethereal gardens of Theed.

He didn't notice the eyes that followed his every move nor did he sense the malevolence behind them

. ******************************************************** ****************

From the balcony above, Senator Palpatine watched him go, smiling to himself as he leaned against the wrought stone railing. Stupid Jedi, he thought, inhaling deeply as if he could catch the Jedi's scent over the vast distance that separated them. Your insignificant life belongs to me now. Do you know that it was I who allowed you to live? You would have died were it

not for me. I could have left you to perish. But I'll keep you alive…if only for a while. I have plans for you Jedi. He

glared hatefully as the Jedi's figure gradually faded into the maze of Theed below. The Naboo milled about beneath him. Palpatine's eyes narrowed as he glanced down at them. So they had triumphed -so what? It would not last. The victory

would be short lived, and the play-queen would abdicate her throne. He would see to that personally. She'd meddled in

his plans once too often, and the weak pathetic Viceroy wouldn't escape him either. Being surrounded by the Naboo security meant nothing, it could not save them. Palpatine abided no fool that surrendered at the first sign of trouble. Yes, those two would learn the price for crossing him very soon. He closed his eyes, throwing his head back, savoring the hatred that flowed through him. The Jedi, his long hated enemy, were dead. The Sith were victorious. He didn't bother to suppress the laugh that escaped from his lips. They Jedi were dead -by his own hand. The fools never even suspected the device was there! Why would they when it had been planted by one of their own?

It was the last time he'd visited the worthless planet for a diplomatic meeting and subsequent party afterwards. After the party dissipated, his apprentice, who had been stowed away in their ship, had stolen to his suite under the cover of night. There Palpatine had adorned Maul in the traditional Jedi robes, which had been borrowed from his bedmate, allowing Maul to walk among the Jedi along with a slight disguising of his force signature and features. His apprentice didn't have the control of manipulating his form down like his Master did, but Maul had been able to move about unnoticed and, plant the device,

returning to their ship all under the blanket of night. Palpatine had ordered the device left where it wouldn't be found immediately and merely waited for the right moment to detonate it. Of course, it made it much easier that he'd given Maul a security pass that he'd swiped from the young man he'd taken to his bed that night. His smile widened as he remembered that beautiful young man. The one who would be his. Obi-Wan Kenobi was his name, and Palpatine had first encountered the young Padawan when he attended the party that night. Standing alone in a corner of the room, the boy had at first not appeared to be anything special. But as the evening went on, Palpatine had continually found his gaze returning to the handsome boy. He'd become intrigued by the sad expression on the Padawan's face. What? He wondered, had upset him so?

Discreetly, he'd reached out into the unsuspecting mind, searching for the answer and had nearly laughed out loud. The child was in love with his Master! -and apparently that love was unrequited. Well this was certainly interesting. He'd always hated these kinds of parties and being around the self- righteous Jedi always left a sour taste in his mouth. But here was a chance to have a little fun, and the idea of seducing a Padawan under their stupid noses was too irresistible for the Senator. He'd glanced around the room, ignoring the drink that the serving boy had shoved into his hand, eyes scanning the crowded room for the object of the Padawan's unrequited desire. His eyes lit up as they came to rest on the tall figure congregating with the elder Jedi. Probing this one's mind would prove a bit more difficult, and as he reached cautiously towards the other man with his mind he shielded tightly, preventing the Jedi from discovering his intrusion. Master Qui-Gon Jinn this one was called. Yes, he'd heard of this one before. Oh, Oh my! This was too sweet! The Master desired his Padawan as well and was unable to bring himself to do anything

about it! Palpatine had grinned inwardly -except maybe suffer the occasional wet dream. He had decided the opportunity to meddle was too good to pass up. Looking down at the as yet untouched drink in his hand, he got another idea. He'd walked

up to the boy and tapped him on the shoulder. He instantly became the object of an intense azure gaze.

"Good evening, I'm S…."

"Senator Palpatine," the boy had acknowledged, bowing gracefully. "I know of you. It is an honor to meet you, sir."

Palpatine had given the boy his most charming smile, and returned the bow.

"And you dear boy, are the most enchanting young man I have ever seen."

He'd felt a delicious satisfaction as the child's cheeks turned a deep crimson and his beautiful cerulean eyes darted nervously about, presumably searching for the comforting figure of his Master.

"I would be most honored if you would dance with me."

The boy's eyes had taken on a guarded look, but he'd accepted. It was perfect Palpatine had thought. The boy couldn't…wouldn't have refused the offer even if he had come on a bit strong. To do so would have been an insult. Palpatine had extended his arm expectantly. Thoroughly enjoying it when the boy had swallowed hard, and stared at the offered arm as though it were an undomesticated Vornskr then hesitantly reached out and entwined his arm with the Senator's own.

"It would be my pleasure." The Padawan had said quietly, almost timidly.

"The pleasure is all mine …Padawan???"

Palpatine had asked, leading him out onto the floor. Realizing he had so flustered the boy, the child had forgotten to introduce himself.

"Obi-Wan Kenobi." The boy finished for him.

"Obi-Wan." Palpatine had repeated, whispering almost soothingly.

He had watched the flush of color return to the smooth young cheeks. But it was while he was dancing with the boy that

he saw it. There, just a flicker below the surface, so subtle the boy wasn't even aware of it. So subtle, Palpatine himself

had almost missed it. Anger and resentment, all for his beloved Master. The amount of that anger was staggering ;it nearly made him swoon so great was its intensity. Untapped, the child's power lay dormant, awaiting the right key to unlock it. As they'd danced, Palpatine had given the boy his drink, making sure the flask was kept full throughout the evening. It took just the

barest of force suggestion from Palpatine for Kenobi to throw caution to the wind and begin drinking to excess. He saw the brief flash of anger again when the Jedi Master laughed and rested an arm on the Jedi beside him. It would not take much to bring that anger boiling to the surface to stay. With a wicked glance in the Jedi Master's general direction he'd wrapped an arm tightly around the boy's waist and pressed Kenobi tightly to him. Daring to let that hand slide just above the curve of the youthful buttocks. Palpatine had grinned inwardly in triumph when the Jedi Master began repeatedly glancing in their direction with a grim look on his face. By the time the Kenobi's face was flushed from the dance and drink, the boy's Master had looked fit to be tied. Kenobi was all but tripping over his own feet, stumbling and spilling his drink everywhere. Palpatine decided it was time to act before the Jedi Master decided to put an end to their dalliance. During a slower beat, as their bodies swayed gently against one another, he'd whispered softly into the young man's ear.

"You desire your Master don't you child?"

Kenobi's head had jerked up, his eyes wide.

"What?"

Placing a finger over that luscious mouth, Palpatine had silenced him.

"It's ok. It's very obvious to anyone with half a mind that you're in love with him."

The boy 's eyes immediately darkened, and he'd hiccuped, looking down at his feet.

"Not to him it isn't," he'd mumbled.

Palpatine had pulled him closer, and nuzzled the soft skin at the base of the boy's neck.

"Spend the night with me and I can help you make him regret that," he had purred seductively into the warm neck."What do you say?"

"Spend the night with you?" Came the uncertain reply.

Even though the drink had loosened Kenobi's inhibitions and tongue, Palpatine felt the firm body tense under him at the

suggestion. The boy's head raised to slowly look towards his Master. Palpatine had nearly snarled out loud in frustration. He 'd grabbed the boy's chin, forcing Kenobi's gaze back to him, and looking him directly in the eye had said.

"You would love to spend the night with me wouldn't you Padawan Kenobi?"

The Padawan's eyes glazed over from the power the older man was exerting on his mind. Palpatine was almost delighted to find the boy was fighting him regardless of his near-drugged state, but he was no match for a Sith Lord.

"I would love to spend the night with you, Senator," The boy repeated perfectly.

He hadn't completely taken the boy's will away from him, after all what fun would that be? Palpatine had merely given him a

bit of a push in the right direction. He'd glanced around making sure no one had noticed the exchange between them. Taking the boy's hand in his own, Palpatine had lead them to the exit, aware the entire time of the stricken look that had overcome the Jedi Master's features, as he watched them depart. But the Jedi did not interfere, Kenobi was old enough to choose his own path

and therefore whom he could take to his bed. Besides to interfere would be an insult as it appeared to all that Kenobi had given consent. How wonderful the Jedi etiquette was. Palpatine had thought. So he'd bedded the Padawan, clouding the boy's judgement with the dark force, teasing him with it, bringing him almost excruciating pleasure as he'd claimed the lithe body

beneath him, and what a delicious body it was. His body was so responsive, nipples budding out to greet him as he'd nipped

and sucked them. The wantonness the boy displayed as he'd thrashed beneath him. But watching the boy, his head thrown back, and his Padawan braid flapping against reddened nipples as the boy rose up and down on his shaft, Palpatine had found himself completely lost. It was then that he knew he had too completely and utterly possess this young man. Palpatine knew then that

this was the one. The one he'd been waiting for. The boy practically purred from the dark power being poured into him, too drunk to truly grasp the feelings and sensations for what they truly were. He'd given him just a fraction of the dark power. A taste here and there, and the boy had reveled in it. Kenobi had cradled it to him as a mother nursing a newborn.

This was the one who would rule by his side. Till this day, he still bore marks where the boy had dug passionately into his back during their frantic coupling. He had decided he must posses Obi-Wan Kenobi at any cost. He had long ago realized his grave error in taking Maul as his apprentice. He would soon rectify that. He'd taken the pass and the boy's clothes, as he slept, body splayed blatantly on the silken sheets, and given them to his apprentice to disguise himself. Now, Palpatine gripped the railing beneath him as he stared balefully in the direction the Jedi Master had taken. The wind whipped furiously at his cape which billowed behind him. This Qui-Gon Jinn was a formidable enemy. His revenge was nearly complete. He could not allow anything to disrupt his plans. The Jedi would not give up looking for his apprentice, and Palpatine knew he would move the heavens

to find the boy. A little time was all that was needed. A little time to let events he had already set in motion follow their course, and then it would be too late for the Jedi Master and thoughts of rescue. He couldn't take the chance that the Jedi would find

Kenobi before it was time. What was needed was a distraction, something that would keep the Jedi otherwise occupied. Maul must have more time. He considered the matter for a time, the afternoon sun turning to evening around him. Even if all his efforts failed, even if he could not bring down the queen and the Naboo, harry them as an animal would its prey, still that would be sufficient if in the end Obi-Wan was his -if the boy's soul fell to him. The boy's hatred was immense, lying beneath the surface as yet untapped.

It called to him, sung in a voice of its own to be harnessed and freed, free from its confinement. Free to bring the young man completely and inexorably to him. And what he had planned would bring forth the boy's anger to the front in force. It would forever change him and thus make him Palpatine's servant forever. The Sith Lord shrugged, either way, it didn't matter how it happened, the end result would be the same. Either way the boy would be his. For he knew what the boy, and the others did not. That everything the boy saw before him, aside from the very real form of his apprentice, was illusion. But the final act in the well drawn out symphony would be very real and inescapable. Kenobi's destiny lied with him. The last of the Jedi would turn to the dark side.

"Obi-Wan. Obi-Wan. Obi-Wan."

Palpatine whispered his name soothingly to the darkening sky. It was a litany that filled his mind with visions of the future.

Visions of power that nothing could withstand. He glanced down into the market place and garden below him a moment longer, then turned and stalked out. He made his way to the tunnels beneath Theed, escape tunnels that only a select few in the royal palace knew about. Palpatine wasn't supposed to be one of them, but then again it was so easy to find out what you wanted to know from a weak minded guard. He descended into the subterranean chambers knowing exactly where he wanted to emerge into the gardens above him. The changes were subtle at first, but as he neared his destination, they became more prominent. He had been a Master of the dark force for a very long time. Manipulation of the force was his specialty. It would take great effort, but Palpatine knew if anyone could pull it off, he could. A mist enveloped him and the Senator began to change. Laughing maniacally, Senator Palpatine also know as Lord Sidious made his way towards the unsuspecting Jedi above.

******************************************************** ***

The burning in Qui-Gon's side told him he'd been walking much longer than he'd anticipated. Besides, it was beginning to get

dark and he'd better get back before Captain Panaka summoned the Calvary. The walk in the gardens had done much good.

He had been able to meditate and release his anger and fears into the force. He had come away with a clearer head although his body was certainly going to pay for the outing. He bit back a grimace and began heading for the main entrance to the gardens when he heard a shout behind him. Whirling so quickly he nearly toppled over. He cursed inwardly at his own stupidity and squinted against the setting suns, searching the landscape in front of him.

Was that?…

No it couldn't possibly be..

"By the Gods," he whispered.

The pain in his side was forgotten as he rushed forward to grab the figure stumbling towards him. Qui-Gon gasped as the other collapsed into his outstretched arms and he pulled the man with him to the ground when his knees buckled.

"Obi-Wan!"

Qui-Gon couldn't believe it.

Part 6

*Sometimes it's not reality, but what is perceived as reality that is the most terrifying*

Mist surrounded and parted before him. Obi-Wan Kenobi walked into a nightmare. The landscape was cluttered with debris. Small fires brightly lit the gloom. The ground was scorched, and the silence was oppressive. The thick scent of death hung in the air. Where am I? He wondered. He began moving through corridor after corridor of devastation, feeling his legs grow heavier with each step as it slowly began to dawn on him just exactly where he was. No, it can't be. It was barely recognizable now, but Obi-Wan felt his heart lurch painfully in his chest when he realized he was staring at what remained of the Jedi Temple. He glanced down curiously when his foot bumped something that didn't feel like the other debris and felt bile rise in the back of his throat. He was looking at what had once been a part of someone's arm.

He didn't bother looking for the rest of the corpse. Making his way through the charred ruins, he was mindful not to disturb anything else of what was now most certainly a tomb. The destruction was appalling. Coming to another corner, he came to the base of one of the two statues that had stood just outside the entrance. Lovingly he caressed the blackened stone, remembering when it had been one of the favorite gathering places of younger Padawans. That was when he heard the voices. Clutching the base of the statue, he slowly peered round it, blinking in surprise at the sight of two Masters standing over a young Padawan lying prostrate on the ground. One of them bent over taking the limp form into his arms, letting out a low moan of despair. Obi-Wan started to move forward intent on helping just as the man who had been watching the other two turned making his profile more visible.

"Master Windu!"

Obi-Wan gasped in recognition and relief. He was still alive! Giving up his hiding place, he raced towards them.

"Master. What hap..." he stopped short. The side of Windu's face Obi-Wan had seen must have been shielded from the explosion, while the other side of the Master's face was a different matter altogether. His skin was covered with horrible blisters -parts of the bubbled flesh had been torn away. A flap of skin hung precariously where Master Windu's right cheek had been. The other Master, who was holding the lifeless Padawan, appeared badly burned as well. Pieces of blackened bone pierced through what was once unmarred skin. Obi-Wan bit the inside of his lip to stop the swell of nausea that threatened to overwhelm him. He had seen blaster victims before and even some injuries from small bombs, but never had he seen anything like this.

Mace Windu's face colored with anger as he recognized the young Padawan.

"You! How dare you!"

"Master?"

What was going on? Obi-Wan wondered. His mouth opening in shock and surprise.

Menacingly, Windu advanced on him. "How dare you come back here! This is all your fault!"

"What's all my fault?" Having to ask, although Obi-Wan already knew what the answer would be.

"Everyone is dead...and it's all because of you." Mace hissed.

It was if he'd been slapped. This couldn't be real. Master Windu thought him responsible for the destruction of the Temple? His mind reeled with the impact of the accusation. He and Qui-Gon had not known the Temple was even in danger! The Sith had set off the detonator so quickly and unexpectedly, Obi-Wan could never have gotten to it in time.

"Master...please. You don't know what you're saying."

Mace continued to move towards him.

"I know exactly what I'm saying." he yelled. " I'm not the one who let a Sith Lord kill my Master and set off a detonator while you sat behind a force field and watched it all because you were too hasty and let the enemy catch you off balance and be thrown from battle!"

Suddenly, the limp form of the young Padawan bolted upright and a gnarled hand raised, pointing incriminatingly. Obi-Wan's eyes widened in surprise. The Padawan he had thought dead was Bruck!

"Oafy-Wan destroyed the Temple! Oafy-Wan destroyed the Temple!" Blood streaking down his face, Bruck chanted the dreaded childhood nickname the Padawan had given him before they had become friends.

If there was a hell, this was definitely it.

"Bruck, no," Obi-Wan choked on the words.

Bruck's eyes didn't focus on him, making the scene even more surreal. Did everyone believe him responsible for the destruction of Coruscant? Taking a shaky breath, he turned back towards Windu. He couldn't look at Bruck anymore- couldn't look at the drool that fell from his lips -couldn't look at the legs that were grotesquely bent back so far that Obi-Wan knew Bruck would never walk again.

"Master, you need a healer. Let me help you." Obi-Wan forced the words past the dryness in his throat.

"You want to help me?" Mace whispered, the terrible face mere inches from Obi-Wan's own.

"Certainly, help me, Padawan Kenobi."

The Master extended a hand in invitation, and Obi-Wan tentatively reached out to take it, gasping in horror when burned flesh peeled off onto his own fingers. Mace Windu's laughter was bone chilling.

"There's no help for us foolish Padawan," he growled. "We are dead thanks to you. There is no place for you here, even in death, there never was. Get out."

His back turned on the young apprentice.

Bruck stared sightlessly in front of him. "Oafy-Wan destroyed the Temple. Oafy-Wan destroyed the Temple."

It was too much. With a small cry, Obi-Wan pivoted on his heel and ran as fast as his legs would carry him. He ran not knowing where he was going and not caring - breath coming in ragged gasps- eyes blinded by the tears that would not come. He did not know how long he ran. When he thought he could run no longer, he glanced behind him to see if he had been followed. No one was there. He took huge gulps of air into his aching lungs, trying to ignore the acrid scent of death that surrounded him. His mind grappled with what had just taken place. This wasn't real. This was the drug Maul had injected him with, giving him these visions. It had to be, but Obi-Wan couldn't seem to keep his mind focused on that reality. He had always felt like he struggled to be a part of the Jedi, like he hadn't fit in. Hearing it spoken out loud that the others had always thought so as well was more than he could bear.

Looking around, he was surprised to discover his maddened sprint had nearly carried him past the suites that housed his and Qui-Gon's quarters. This part of the Temple hadn't taken quite such a beating as the rest. Most of it was still standing. He made his way to the familiar door, reaching out and trailing a finger along the outer edge. Singed and blackened, it collapsed as he put his hand out to move it, falling with a loud crash. He walked inside, immediately hampered in his progress by the ton of debris that littered the floor. Making a path through the mess to the center of the room, it started to sink in that this was all that was left of his life as an apprentice. A life he'd led since he was a child. What would he do now that the Jedi were no more? He'd never known anything else -never wanted to be anything else.

His eyes strayed to the door to Qui-Gon's room and he felt a fresh wave of loss cascade over him. He'd rarely if ever ventured into his Master's room. It had taken so much for Qui-Gon to finally accept Obi-Wan as his Padawan that Obi-Wan hadn't wanted to give Qui-Gon any reason whatsoever to regret that long awaited decision. So, he'd suffered through the terrors of childhood on his own. The nightmares and knee knocking thunderstorms. He remembered cowering under his blankets, clutching a pillow for comfort rather than disturb his Master for such a silly thing. Qui-Gon hadn't known how badly he had suffered from nightmares as a child. Obi-Wan had never told him. In fact, Obi-Wan couldn't remember a time that he'd openly gone to his Master for comfort about anything. Instead he had chosen to remain close-mouthed and stoic in the face of all that assaulted him, bearing it alone and without a word. Qui-Gon had thought Obi-Wan would never enter his rooms out of respect for his master. Now, Obi-Wan swallowed hard and entered that forbidden place. The room was barren now, scarred by fire. He was startled badly when he backed into Qui-Gon's old dresser, inadvertently causing it to tip over with a deafening crash.

"What do you think you're doing?"

Obi-Wan whirled around at the unexpected, but familiar voice.

"Master!" he exclaimed. His eyes immediately went to Qui-Gon's hands, remembering the long claws. They were normal.

"Master," he began hesitantly. "I miss you so much. I feel so lost without you." He glanced at the floor. "He...he's hurting me."

The heavy brow lifted in query. "Who's hurting you?"

"The Sith we fought. Darth Maul," he replied quietly.

"Good. You deserve it." With a flurry of his cloak, Qui-Gon spun on his heel and walked into the other room.

"How can you say that!" Obi-Wan yelled after him in disbelief. He was beginning to wonder how many more shocks his system could handle. With a heavy heart, he followed. Qui-Gon stood arms folded, staring out along what used to be their balcony. At one time it had overlooked a beautiful garden, and a bustling section of the city. The only thing it overlooked now was death.

"How can you say that? " Obi-Wan repeated, coming up behind the older man. "I'm your Padawan."

Qui-Gon shook his head.

"No, you're not. Not anymore and you never should have been. I was not ready to take another Padawan. You knew it. Everyone knew it. Yet, I was pressured into accepting you."

"I thought you wanted me to be your student. I thought you liked me," Obi-Wan said softly, stung beyond reprieve. He knew he sounded pathetic, but he couldn't help it. "As it was, you nearly let me go into the Agri-Corps instead!" There was no mistaking the hurt and bitterness that entered his voice.

" I took pity on you." Qui-Gon said after a long moment of silence, his hands disappearing inside his sleeves.

"I didn't realize I was a charity case!" Obi-Wan spat, coldly.

"You merely wanted to be my apprentice, Obi-Wan, because of my status in the order. You knew that being my Padawan would be something others would covet. You were jealous of all the other Padawans who had Masters. This is unacceptable for a Jedi."

Obi-Wan stared at him unable to respond. That was when he was a child! Of course he'd wanted to be Qui-Gon's, Padawan, and have everything that went with it, even the envy. Did Qui-Gon think him that petty that he still thought that way? How could he blame a child for wanting that?

Obi-Wan drew in a sharp breath. "I was not aware I was such a burden. I thought you saw something in me worth teaching." Oh yes, he had known. That had been his greatest fear, why he had worked so hard to become accepted.

"I never should have taken you as my Learner." Qui-Gon's eyes settled on his stricken apprentice. "It was a mistake -my mistake. It cost all these lives." His made a sweeping gesture with his arm.

"You're the one who didn't wait for me!" Obi-Wan shouted, unable to stand being blamed for everything any longer. "You're the one who ran ahead to face the Sith on your own!"

Qui-Gon was unruffled. "No, Obi-Wan. You didn't listen to what I taught you. We were facing a well-trained opponent. I told you 'do not center on your anxieties, keep your concentration on the here and now, where it belongs, but not at the expense of the moment'. You let your fear control you the entire time. Your concentration wasn't on that fight!"

Stunned and confused, Obi-Wan ran a hand through his spiky hair trying to regain his center.

"What do you mean I wasn't concentrating on the fight? That's all I was concentrating on!"

"You were thrown from battle because you let your emotions dominate you." Qui-Gon insisted.

"Qui-Gon," Obi-Wan began, suddenly feeling very sick to his stomach as he realized where this was going. He was silenced by a harsh look from the elder Jedi.

"Shut up, foolish one!" Qui-Gon snapped. "It's time you listened, for it was your love for me that got me killed!"

Obi-Wan's world fell out from under him. He had never told Qui-Gon how he felt about him, but he had always been dreadfully afraid of how obvious his feelings might be. No matter how he tried to hide them. "No...h-h-how did you ...?"

Qui-Gon sneered. "How did I what? Know that you were in love with me? " He laughed. "My pitiful, little Padawan. How hard was it to miss it when I was living with a love-sick idiot? I knew! I also knew that you were contemplating telling me during the mission! It clouded your judgement and your thoughts. You were furious that I left you behind on Tatooine. You were furious that I took Anakin with us! He got in the way of your little confession, didn't he? And when I said I was taking him as my Learner, you were so jealous, envy practically reeked off of you. Might I add that your confession was forbidden? You know very well what is and what is not allowed by the Code. It was your inability to control your emotions that caused you to fail in that fight and in turn cost me my life! Your love killed me!"

"No, no," Obi-Wan whispered backing away from his Master, shaking his head, denying what he knew to be true. "You went without me. You left me!"

Qui-Gon straightened, hands on hips.

"Keep telling yourself that, Padawan. Maybe someday you will truly believe it."

He took deep shuddering breaths, trying to control his emotions. Hearing such cruel words come out of the man whose words he had respected his entire life was nearly his undoing. He had never heard Qui-Gon speak like this and it was killing him that he had disappointed his Master. Wasn't that what he'd been forever trying to avoid? Instead he'd done the inconceivable. If he hadn't taken that one short glance in concern towards Qui-Gon as they fought the Sith. If his mind had not been focused on the daunting task of how to approach Qui-Gon about his feelings, then he would not have been knocked out of the fight by the Sith. Qui-Gon would still be alive and they would have been able to fight him together.

Obi-Wan's chest constricted as he tried to pull air into his aching lungs. His legs gave out on him and he sank to his knees grasping Qui-Gon's leggings in his hands. "All my fault -all of this. I killed you. Oh Gods, Master, I'm so sorry. I do love you. I love you so much." Qui-Gon laughed as he looked down at his trembling Padawan. "As if I could ever love a sniveling brat like you!" he snarled. "You're worthless, Obi-Wan -always were. You love me? You're a joke."

Something inside Obi-Wan snapped.

"I'm a joke? "

His head jerked up, face expressionless as he released his hold on Qui-Gon and slowly got to his feet.

"I'm too hasty and impatient? I'm worthless? "

Qui-Gon's eyes were wide at the unexpected outburst.

"You taught me that as a Jedi, one should accept what life offers you with calm - with peace and serenity. And just how am I supposed to be calm about the fact that you ignored me time and again when I cried out to be accepted as your Padawan!"

Obi-Wan found he was now the aggressor, advancing on Qui-Gon as the Jedi Master began cautiously backing away from him.

"Then when you accepted me you never seemed to have time for me outside of our training sessions! You never cared about the things I went out of my way to do for you. Hours and hours I spent doing things for you...only you! And you give me up the moment that slave boy comes along? Deciding for me that I was ready to take my trials? Well, you know what Qui-Gon? I hate being calm about everything and I hate the way you never had time for me! That you gave me up for a boy you barely knew. The way you never listened to me. I hate your 'there is no peace only serenity'."

Without warning, Obi-Wan brought up his lightsaber igniting it.

"And I hate you Qui-Gon Jinn!"

In one smooth motion, his saber swept in an arch, slicing cleanly through his Master's midsection. Qui-Gon's mouth opened in eternal surprise as he slid to the floor.

Obi-Wan stared down at the ruined form of his Master in horror.

"What have I done? Oh Gods what have I done?"

He sank down beside the lifeless body, cradling Qui-Gon in his arms. Qui-Gon's head lolled sickeningly -indigo eyes that would see nothing again.

"Master, No Master!" He rained the broad forehead with small kisses. Obi-Wan threw his head back.

"QUIII -GGGGOONNN!"

Obi-Wan's eyes flew open and he struggled to catch his breath. Panic washed over him, and his mind screamed with the knowledge of what had just occurred. Dream or no, he had just killed the one man who meant the world to him. Eyes wide and panting softly, he looked round him. He was back in the Sith's prison. The droids had returned while he had been unconscious. One stooped over him checking vital signs while the other dexterously scanned a datapad. They had been careless with their captive, thinking him not a threat. Beyond them the door to the cell lay wide open. Obi-Wan didn't bother with considering whether or not he should or where he would go. An unrelenting desire to get away from this dreadful place suddenly hit him like a blaster shot. He saw a chance at freedom and in his panicked state it seemed so crazy that it just might work. He glanced back up at the droids above him. They continued to work not noticing that the object of their attention had suddenly awoke.

One minute, the Padawan was lying pliable in the hands of the enemy. The next, he was up, ramming into the droids, knocking them from their feet and bolting through the open doorway. His legs, weak from disuse, screamed at him to stop, but his mind- his conscience- wouldn't allow it. He ran from himself, and the terrible thing he thought he had done. He passed a view port and was halfway down the curiously deserted corridor before he felt a stinging pain coming from his leg. Stopping, he quickly searched for the cause. The offender was in the form of a small syringe, imbedded along his upper thigh. One of the droids had been successful in thwarting his attempt to get away. So intent on making it out of the cell, he had not even felt it pierce the skin. Cursing his own stupidity, he bent over and quickly plucked it out, wincing as he did so and threw it to the ground. Another look over the shoulder showed that his lead was still intact. It didn't last. As he rounded the next corridor, cries of pursuit rose from behind him spurring him on in his efforts. His mind raced. They would expect to find him moving aimlessly about the station, drugged beyond capability, but maybe they wouldn't expect him to hide so soon. Then he might possibly be able to slip by them. Deciding that concealment was his best option, he turned a corner and palmed the lock on the nearest door, nearly falling inside when it opened so quickly. His eyes took in an enormous storage bay. The room was dark and stacked from floor to ceiling with large crates. Biting his lip against the pain in his leg, he limped forward to hastily duck behind a massive crate containing life support packs. He wiped at his eyes and attempted to control his breathing. Even so, it still took him some time to notice that his leg was almost numb where the syringe had been. In fact, the feeling seemed to be spreading in a deliberate pattern from his thigh to his pelvis. What in Sith hells had they injected him with this time? Groaning, he brought a hand to his forehead, which had grown damp with perspiration.

"Master, " he whispered brokenly, burying his head in his hands as Qui-Gon's face appeared before him. His mind again replayed the awful scene where the Sith cut Qui-Gon down, but this time before the blade hit its mark Maul's face was replaced with Obi-Wan's own. He saw a flash and the glow of his blue saber as it ran his Master through. Something warm and sticky was on his hands. Eyes flying open, he brought them in front of him only to gasp in horror at the sight of them soaked with blood -blood which he knew without a doubt belonged to Qui-Gon. Blood that was even now running in rivulets down each side of his face where his hands had been. Frantically, he wiped them on his leggings, seeking to clean them. All he succeeded in doing was turning them a brilliant pink. He shook his head to clear it and when he brought them up again they were spotless, so were his leggings, as if it had never happened. Which he now realized it had not. Sliding to the cold floor, and wrapping his arms around his legs, Obi-Wan slowly rocked back and forth

"Force, not real. Wasn't real. Nooooooo." Though whether he was talking about the previous vision or this one he did not know.

A little voice in the back of his mind said: It didn't have to be real did it? All that matters is that you killed him. In your mind, you killed your precious Master. You wanted him dead...

"Qui-Gon," he muttered miserably. "I would never have hurt you. Oh Gods, please. I loved you. This is the drug, just the drug."

Keep telling yourself that little Padawan.

The little voice inside him said again. With a sound that was more like a high pitched wail, Obi-Wan leaned over and pulled at his hair while he continued to rock back and forth in anguish. His braid slapping lightly against his chest with the movement. The past began to intermingle with the present and Obi-Wan heard the words Qui-Gon had uttered years ago when he was still trying to convince Obi-Wan he would never take on another Padawan:

"There is too much risk he will turn to the dark side." Qui-Gon had said many a time.

I'm going mad. I must be. Am I turning to the dark side?

"Force, what's real and what isn't? I don't think I know anymore," he murmured to himself.

As a child, Obi-Wan had constantly struggled to control his anger and fear. As an adult, that anger and fear had become the cause of his Master's downfall. He had been angry at Qui-Gon for pushing him away, for being so cold to him, and treating him like a child. He had then feared he would never be able to tell the elder Jedi how he felt about him, and racked his brain the entire trip from Tatooine to Naboo on how to tell his Master how he felt. He had been distracted by the fact that he still hadn't been able to bring it to the front before the fight with Darth Maul. He had been careless and let his emotions get in the way. His love had killed the one person he had loved more than life itself. With that revelation, came a small sob as Obi-Wan accepted that he truly was responsible for the death of Qui-Gon Jinn.

It was at that moment, he began to feel extremely weak and dizzy. The numbness had spread from his pelvis to his stomach.

Sith! He cursed inwardly, slumping back against the crate. No, not now!

No doubt this other drug would soon render him unconscious yet again, but he'd be damned if he was going down without a fight. His body had other ideas though as the room suddenly began to spin wildly about him. The spasm finally passed and he could think clearly again.

What did he think he was he doing? There was no way to escape the Sith. The only thing he was going to accomplish was invoking Maul's anger to no end and maybe a beating which the Sith had yet to do, but he had been unable to think past anything else except getting free. Taking a deep breath, he concentrated on trying to find his center. Being unable to call upon the Force was wearing him down, it was one of the worst things he had ever felt in his life. The Force had been a part of him for so long he was completely lost at the lack of its presence. He could not remember a time it had not been there. Yet, now here he was blind to the one thing that might have been able to help him out of this predicament. He finally gave up and looked around the room. It was nearly pitch dark, but he could tell the area was well stocked. Supplies were stacked from floor to ceiling. Shifting position, his arm bumped a small box beside him. He squinted in the darkness just making out the small insignia on the side. It was the Corellian Trade Guild's mark. That meant there had to be a docking bay nearby...and a docking bay meant escape. It was slim, but there was a chance he could make it to a ship. For the first time since he had been dragged out of the Generator room on Naboo, Obi-Wan Kenobi felt hope. He leaned against the cool crate, trying to prepare himself for the trial ahead, crying out when without warning a massive cramp hit him causing him to lurch over clutching his stomach. He was so hungry! Though they had been taught at the temple how to survive for long periods of time without food, he had rarely put the tactics learned to use.

Sith! with the way he was feeling right now, Obi-Wan wasn't entirely sure he could pilot a ship successfully. But one thing at a time, he would worry about that when he got to it. He had to get there first. He had just started to get gingerly to his feet when the door to the storage room opened and Darth Maul entered. Quickly, Obi-Wan ducked down, biting off a moan as his entire body protested the move. Had Maul seen him? The Padawan didn't think so. Biting his lower lip nervously, he wondered why the Sith was here. Had someone seen him come in? No, if they had they would not have waited this long to retrieve him. There hadn't been anyone in the corridor when he entered the storage room. So why out of all the rooms in this section had the Sith chosen this one? Or was he systematically checking each room? That was crazy, Obi-Wan thought Maul would have no reason to think he had ducked into a room this close to his small prison when Obi-Wan could just as easily be several levels above or below Maul by now. Obi-Wan you idiot! He silently berated himself suddenly comprehending that the absence of guards along the corridor likely meant they were stationed in other sectors and had probably reported he had not come that way yet. He would have kicked himself if he'd been able to do so.

"Obi-Wan."

The Padawan started violently at the sudden soft whisper of his name. The disembodied voice sounded like it had come from right behind him, but he knew the Sith could not be more than a few meters from the entrance.

"I know you're in here, Jedi." Maul insisted. "Come out, come out, wherever you are."

Obi-Wan pressed his back as flat against the crate as possible.

He could hear the Sith's footfalls as he moved further into the darkened room.

"Did you think to escape me, Jedi?"

The voice came from somewhere off to Obi-Wan's right.

"Or did you just want to play?"

Maul's laughter echoed all around him, taunting.

Swallowing hard, Obi-Wan attempted to calm his breathing, but nothing could stop the hammering of his heart.

"Fine, We'll play. You cannot use the Force. I won't use it to find you again, fair enough?" he cackled.

You're lying. Obi-Wan thought. You don't know I'm in here. You can't sense me either.

Even so, he nearly jumped out of his skin when something fell with a clatter to the floor.

"You shouldn't have run, Jedi. More's the worse for you. Though I'm surprised you had the strength to move at all. Must be that Jedi training kicking in...By the way, how are you feeling now?" Maul asked, voice dripping with mock concern.

Sweat began running down his back and his hair was plastered to his face. He didn't dare wipe at it for fear that any small noise would draw the Sith's attention. The numbness that had originated in his thigh was now taking over his entire lower torso, making it take all his effort just to keep standing, but he wasn't going to tell Maul that. Whatever drug this latest one he'd been given was, it worked agonizingly slow on its host. In fact, he was sweating so much, that a small puddle had formed at his feet.

"I can smell you, Jedi. Smell your fear."

Obi-Wan had awakened from one nightmare only to find himself transported into another. Would he ever be free of this creature? He wasn't going to last much longer -knew he had to get out of there. Struggling to place one foot in front of the other, he began moving, keeping the crates at his back, in the direction of the door. He would not give in -could not. It was either escape now or lose his sanity altogether - succumb to madness. He was stopped short and nearly toppled over on his weak leg when he heard another crash closer behind him. It took another loud crash for Obi-Wan to understand that the Sith was pulling out the crates one by one, searching the room methodically. That was the noise he had heard earlier, and that meant the Sith was getting entirely too close for comfort. Another meter or so and he would be parallel with the crate Obi-Wan had first slipped behind. Desperately, he looked around for something that could help him when he noticed a large cargo net in the next crate. Maybe he could use it on Maul, trapping him long enough to give Obi-Wan the few seconds he needed to reach the docking bay. Back protesting as he leaned over the top of the crate, he reached in and pulled it out.

"I'm going to fuck you, Jedi. You know that, don't you? And you're going to want it."

Obi-Wan was glad Maul had chosen that exact moment to knock aside another crate, yet again causing a loud crash that covered his very audible gasp at the Sith's words. His blood turned to ice at the idea and the subsequent image it placed in his head. Another bout of dizziness hit him, this time accompanied by nausea, making him almost give up and lay down in the floor right then and there. He was becoming more and more disoriented by the moment, and losing his control over his limbs. Obi-Wan knew he was going to have to make a move now or surrender to the drug. He refused to give in. Straightening to his full height, he cautiously glanced over the top of the crate. Maul was certainly getting closer, in fact; all he had to do was turn around and he would see Obi-Wan immediately. Obi-Wan nervously fingered the large net in his hands. How was he going to get it over the Sith's head before Maul could see him? Inspiration struck when he noticed that Maul was in an area where the crates were precariously stacked on top of one another. One good shove at the right angle would bring the entire section crashing down. Calculating quickly in his head, Obi-Wan's eyes lit upon the crate that would instigate the landslide. Licking his lips, he edged forward, simultaneously dropping the netting, he no longer needed, to the floor.

He waited until Maul moved into the dark corner, then with a strength he didn't know he possessed, crossed the distance between them in three huge steps, lunging with all his might and throwing himself into the crate nearest the Sith, propelling it into the others

The effect was immediate. The crates collapsed inwardly on each other just as Maul turned with a cry of dismay. Furious yellow eyes met gray-blue before Darth Maul was buried beneath a mountain of supplies.

Relief washed over Obi-Wan as his enemy disappeared from sight. Triumphantly, he gave one last glance over his shoulder then turned to flee from the room and was promptly tripped by something unseen, knocking the air out of his lungs as he landed hard on the floor. His foot had tangled in the dropped netting. Nearly screaming with frustration, he raced to free himself. That proved to be impossible. The entire right side of his body had now gone numb and he was only able to place one hand on the netting to pull at it. He stared in disbelief at his limp right hand. This could not be happening! Not now! He was so close. Panic set in, as he realized the rest of his body was subsequently beginning to feel the same way. Abandoning attempts to free himself he started crawling on hands and knees for the doorway. He didn't even think about how he would get the door open. His body felt so heavy and cold. The coldness spread across his shoulder blades into, down into his lower back into his left thigh, making the hair on his body stand on end. Then the cold began seeping into his neck, stiffening it until he could no longer turn it to either side. It went into his jaw as he gasped, sealing it shut. Next thing he knew, he felt it in both hands, balling them up like the flesh of a withered corpse. He flopped over onto his back and stared helplessly up at the ceiling, seeing only his chest move with the rise and fall of his breath. A noise came from the direction where Darth Maul had been buried. The Sith had finally freed himself.

"Well, well," Maul said, coming over to stand above the immobile Padawan, dusting himself off.

"That was unexpected. You have such a flair for the unusual, young Kenobi."

Obi-Wan could say nothing, watching silently as Maul crouched over him, pulling the cursed netting from his leg.

The Sith rolled his eyes. "You do know that was completely pointless don't you? Running from your cell, and trying to bury me alive? Fool."

He leaned forward to within inches of Obi-Wan's nose, a wide smile appeared on his face.

"Excruciating isn't it? Being able to see and hear everything around you, but unable to do anything about it? Unable to even move a muscle, outside of your eyes of course. "

If Obi-Wan had been able to, he would have spit in the Sith's face.

"Though it's interesting how long the drug took to finally subdue you." He frowned. "It usually affects a person much quicker."

Maul rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Still you are a Jedi."

A soft-gloved hand moved to stroke Obi-Wan's cheek.

"A Jedi...that's completely at my mercy."

The hand slid from his cheek down his chest to the tie at his leggings, sliding under them to cup the warm flesh beneath.

Obi-Wan's eyes widened and he glared daggers at the Sith. Maddened by Maul's repulsive touch and being unable to do a thing about it.

Maul only smiled at him in return, saying with a hitch to his voice, "Nice, but not yet. I think a punishment is in order for your little escapade this morning."

It was morning? Obi-Wan wondered how many days that made that he had been the Sith's captive. To him, it seemed like forever.

"Come little Jedi, " Maul said as he slid arms beneath the Padawan's knees and back, pulling him into his arms. "It's my turn for games now."

The Sith's teeth shone even in the half-light of the storage room.

TBC.....

in part 7