"We have another one, Captain."

"Another?"

"Yes, ma’am. The sixteenth."

"Wow!" Obi-Wan’s eyes lit up as he glanced around the opulent hotel suite. "I wasn’t expecting this, Master."

"The Eidani treat Jedi very well, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon sat down in one of the many divans in the suite’s living quarters. "About 200 years ago a massive meteor shower nearly leveled Gellan. A delegation of Jedi came to help in the search and recovery, Master Yoda among them. Thousands of people were saved by the Jedi. Master Yoda himself located several hundred. The Eidani rebuilt their capital - very extravagantly - to prove to themselves and others that they could survive. The Eidani know we would be satisfied with simple accommodations, but they consider themselves forever indebted to the Jedi."

"I wondered why there were so few old buildings, Master. Eidan was settled more than a millennium ago. Thank you for the explanation."

"You didn’t have much time to prepare for this mission, Obi-Wan. We were called so suddenly."

"When are we meeting with Captain Pavnacy?"

"In the morning. Our transport arrived very late, and they have worked very hard the past several months. They needed time to rejuvenate themselves."

"Master…"

"Yes, Obi-Wan."

"I noticed an arboretum across the street from the hotel. Would it be acceptable if I went there to meditate and study the mission files?"

"I think that would be a very good idea, Obi-Wan. We are going to need all our abilities in the coming days. This will not be an easy mission."

Obi-Wan bowed slightly to his master and left the room. He decided to take the stairs. 38 flights down was nothing to a Jedi. As he made his way to the arboretum, he noted the plants, architecture and the few people enjoying the cool night air. Gellan was in the midst of a hot, humid summer. Even this late at night the air was thick. He made his way to a clearing beside a small creek, sat down on the grass and pulled a datapad from this clothing. No lamp was needed; three of Eidan’s five moons shone brightly overhead.

Deep in his thoughts, Obi-Wan didn’t notice the young woman who walked up to him until she was only feet away. Silently chastising himself for not being aware, he rose to greet her.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to disturb you," she said. "I needed some peace and quiet. When I am at the breaking point I like to come to this clearing for fourth moon-rise."

"Then it is I who am intruding," he looked at her carefully now. Barely over five feet tall, she wore a simple sleeveless dress which fell to her ankles. Her long hair, which might be either light brown or dark blond, was pulled haphazardly off her neck.

"No, you’re not intruding. It’s a welcome surprise, Padawan."

"Do we really stand out that much?" Obi-Wan asked.

"It’s the braid," she laughed.

"The braid," Obi-Wan joined her light laughter. "Not many humans wear their hair like this," he tugged his braid slightly.

"Would you like to join me for moon-rise, Padawan? Kuten rises in about five minutes." Obi-Wan offered her his arm and led her to the garden bench. "Do Jedi not believe in sitting on benches, Padawan?"

"It’s not against the Code. I felt that I might gain more insight from the Force by sitting on the ground."

"My grandmother always says things like that."

"Grandmother?" Obi-Wan’s interest peeked.

"She is a Jedi. Lasna Manin."

"You are Master Lasna’s granddaughter? But you are not trained as a Jedi?"

"I’ve only got one-fourth of her blood in me. My midi-chlorian count isn’t high enough for me to be a Jedi. I was bitter many years about that. But I am Force sensitive, Padawan."

"That explains why you were able to sneak up on me."

"I didn’t want to disturb the anonymous Padawan. Especially knowing what he’s up against."

"My name is Obi-Wan Kenobi. And how do you know what I’m up against?"

"Because I’m Selia Noars, the lieutenant in charge of the investigation you and your companion have been sent to assist. But we should stop talking. The moon’s about to rise." Selia turned her ice-blue eyes skyward. Obi-Wan didn’t. He was too captivated by what the moon was shining upon.

The next morning, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were taken from the hotel to the Eidan Department of Investigation in the fanciest speeder Obi-Wan had ever seen. As the speeder halted in front of the EDI’s headquarters, Obi-Wan noticed that they were as impressive as most of the buildings he had seen during the drive. They stepped from the speeder and entered the building. After the security droid had checked and rechecked their identifications, the Jedi strode into the lobby. All eyes turned to the Jedi. Many respectfully nodded. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan nodded back. Obi-Wan realized it was more than common respect for the Jedi that made the Eidani so reverent. Each one seemed to look at the Jedi as personal saviors. Doubtless many of them had had ancestors saved years ago.

"Good morning," a young EDI agent met them. "Captain Pavnacy is waiting for you. This way." He led them to the turbolifts across the lobby. "I know I speak for all the EDI agents when I say that we are very relieved you came."

"We were called," Qui-Gon answered. "A Jedi never ignores a plea for help."

The glass doors closed behind them and the lift zoomed upwards. At the ninth floor it stopped. Obi-Wan’s eyes took in the beehive of activity in the war room. He noticed Selia leaning over the shoulder of one of the agents. She looked up and smiled at him. This morning she was in a crisp EDI uniform and her hair was pulled back into a braid which ran down her back. Obi-Wan could feel himself blushing. It didn’t help that Qui-Gon looked quizzically at his apprentice. Gathering his thoughts, Obi-Wan matched Qui-Gon’s pace as the agent led them to an office at the end of the hall.

"Captain Pavnacy. The Jedi have arrived."

"Thank you, Major. Could you ask Lieutenant Noars to join us."

"Yes, ma’am." He turned sharply and left the room.

Cpt. Pavnacy was a middle-aged woman. Her red hair was beginning to gray and her face beginning to wrinkle.

"Please, sit, sirs," she pointed to chairs in front of her desk. "We will have a lot to talk about. First, how much have you been informed of?"

"Just the basics, captain," Qui-Gon said. "The call the Council received was so urgent it precluded any time for research." Selia silently opened the door and slipped in, taking a chair just behind Obi-Wan. She sat, crossing her legs with one foot on tiptoe so it would reach the floor.

"Ah, all here. Now for introductions. You know I am Fiya Pavnacy, head of the homicide division. This is Lt. Selia Noars. She has been in charge of the investigation since the first body was discovered. She has spent almost every moment here since. Dedicated young officer."

Selia nodded toward Qui-Gon and muttered a "hello." She hated this praise from her S.O.

"Lt. Noars," the elder Jedi nodded. "I am Qui-Gon Jinn. And this is my apprentice, Obi-Wan Kenobi."

"We met last night, good morning Padawan, in the arboretum," she smiled at Obi-Wan once again.

"Good morning," Obi-Wan said as Qui-Gon once again looked at him quizzically. It was unlike Obi-Wan to conceal things from him. And for him to be able to... The boy was growing strong in the Force.

"Lt. Noars, you know more details about the case than I do. Be so kind as to fill them in."

"Yes, ma’am" Selia said. "As you know, Eidan has become the unwelcoming host of a serial killer. The first body was located several months ago. It appeared to be an isolated homicide. We had no reason to believe otherwise. Then, approximately two weeks later, a second body was found. The only reason we know that we have a serial killer on our hands is...the ‘calling card’ of our killer. So far, 16 bodies have been located - six males, nine females and one hermaphrodite. We can not find a common denominator among them. They all were from different walks of life, moved in different circles, were of different ages and even different species. We can find no connection between them. The bodies have shown up randomly. What we do know for sure is that each victim had been dead less than 12 hours."

"And the manner in which they were found, the ‘calling card’?" Qui-Gon asked, "From the report, I gather there was something unique."

"Unique?" Selia asked in a half-laugh. "Unique in the fact that all were missing their tongues."

"Have the tongues been located?" Obi-Wan asked.

"No," Pavnacy said. "We kept expecting them to eventually show up. He must be keeping them as trophies."

Qui-Gon leaned back in his seat and looked at Obi-Wan. This was going to be hard indeed, Qui-Gon thought. Even Jedi need clues to solve a mystery.

"And do you have a profile worked up?"

"Several," Selia said. "Each time a new body is found, we rework it. I was helping our crack profiler, Mirea Belreen, on the latest re-do when you came in."

"How long ago was the last body found?"

"Yesterday, Master Jedi," Selia said. "A group of surveyors located her in the woods, more than 1000 kilometers out of the city."

"The crime scene is still secure?" Qui-Gon asked. After a slight nod from Selia he continued, "I would like to read through the files. There may be a connection - there must be. Obi-Wan."

"Yes Master?"

"I would like you to go out to the crime scene and search for any clues."

"Yes Master."

"Lt. Noars, please take Jedi Kenobi to the scene," Captain Pavnacy ordered. "Good luck Jedi. Or should I say may the Force be with you?"

Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan and Selia stood and left the room. "Major, can you please give Master Qui-Gon access to our files." Selia more demanded than asked. "And alert the garage I’ll need a speeder." The major hurried off with Qui-Gon trailing him.

"Now, Padawan, are you ready for this?"

"I’ve seen carnage before, Lieutenant."

"Is there any time a Jedi confesses weakness?"

"Occasionally. Does your grandmother never confess weakness?"

"Once. When my mother died."

"Your grandmother is a powerful Jedi, Lieutenant. You should be proud to have a grandmother like her." They entered the turbolift and Selia commanded it to stop on the second floor.

"Oh, I am. It’s just I rarely see her. The life of a Jedi. After my mother died, my father sent me to live on Coruscant. I spent about one year living in the temple under my grandmother’s care - saw plenty of Padawan braids in my stay."

"You lived in the temple. When was that?"

"About eight years ago," she said, as the lift doors slid open. "This way. The garage is on the second floor - at the rear. Building was built on an incline. The back of the second floor opens out onto the thoroughfare."

"Eight years ago. I had been gone from the temple for approximately four years by then. How old were you? I’m sorry, rude question."

"No, I think you’re only one year older than me. I was 16. After a year, I joined the Coruscant Police Academy. Graduated a few years after. Came back home and within two years found myself a lieutenant in the EDI. Ah, here we are." She hit a key code and the doors slid open. The maintenance droids scurried about. Before long a speeder pulled up. "Hop in. I’ll drive."

The EDI speeder pulled up behind a few similarly marked speeders. Several officers milled about. Obi-Wan noticed a stasis field had been erected around the crime scene.

"We put it up as soon as we found the bodies. We wanted the Jedi to be able to see everything as we found it. We haven’t even removed the body." Obi-Wan was shocked that she was able to know what he had been thinking about. "But even with the stasis field, I’ll warn you, it’s not pretty." She walked over to one of the officers sitting at a control panel hooked to a speeder. Obi-Wan stood back, watching Selia’s every move.

She motioned him over. "They are going to lower the field just long enough for us to enter. Here," she handed him one of two small metallic devices she had pulled from the speeder. "This is a personal shielder. It will keep us from contaminating the scene. I suggest you remove the robe. They work better with less fabric involved."

Obi-Wan removed his brown cloak and laid it on the hood of the speeder. Sliding the chain over his neck, he noticed how Selia pulled her hair from under her chain. Why he would be amazed at that he didn’t know.

"Okay, Sergeant. Lower the field." With a slight hiss, the field deactivated. Selia and Obi-Wan stepped in. "Put it back up." With another hiss the field reactivated.

"The body is over here. Not as gruesome as some murder victims I’ve seen, but bad enough." She halted her brisk pace at the side of the victim.

Obi-Wan knelt down and carefully examined the body. Her head flopped back, chin hanging open revealing a tongue-less mouth, back flat to the ground, her legs and feet twisted to the left. But what stood out the most was the rounded patch of melted flesh where her chest once was. "Female, Firrerreon, roughly 40 years of age."

"That’s our guess." Selia squatted down beside him.

"May I?" Obi-Wan asked, motioning to her gaping mouth.

"Go ahead. You’ve been given free range."

Obi-Wan pulled the chin down more with his thumb, "The others? Their tongues were removed at about the same spot?"

"Base of the tongue. All of them."

"This appears to be a clean cut…"

"With a standard vibroblade. We gave up on tracing the make. There are literally millions of vibroblades in the galaxy."

Obi-Wan rolled the slain woman onto her side. The wound on her back had festered, "It appears that the murder placed the blaster directly in her back,"

"Preliminary ballistics show a C-14 personal blaster."

"How were the other’s killed?"

"Shot with different blaster makes, stabbed, or strangled. No common murder weapon." Selia stood up. "Blast it! I do not want to come out to another crime scene." She rubbed the bridge of her nose with her fingers. "I’ve come out to 16 crime scenes, read 16 autopsy reports, and notified 15 families - we have yet to I.D. this victim."

"Your frustration is easy to understand. It’s hard to feel helpless when such great injustices are being done."

"I’ve been in homicide for a year now. I’ve seen many murder scenes, attended many autopsies, and notified plenty of family members - Gellan has its fair share of criminals. But there is something about this one - or should I say these 16 - that just gets to me."

"Is this your first case on a serial killer?"

"Serial killers, yes. I worked on a serial rape case my first year at the EDI. Tracked him down in 5 weeks."

"But you had live victims to tell you their story. These victims can’t speak to us." He stood up and walked over to her, "May I?" he held out his hand. "A simple Jedi relaxation trick will alleviate quite a bit of that stress."

"I don’t know If I’d remember how to act without all this stress. But go ahead."

Obi-Wan reached out, "Be warned, you might get a bit wobbly. I’m not as good at this as Qui-Gon."

His hand rested on her shoulder and she could feel the tension ebb from her body. Letting go of a small sigh she let her head fall forward. "Thanks, Padawan. I haven’t felt this relaxed in months."

"You’re welcome," he let his hand remain on her shoulder a moment longer than necessary.

"Did you find anything, Obi-Wan?" Qui-Gon asked.

"I didn’t sense anything other than what Cpt. Pavnacy and Lt. Noars informed us of, Master," Obi-Wan sat down at table across from his master. "Lt. Noars ordered a stasis field put up at the scene."

"That was wise of her. She has much of her grandmother in her."

"Master, may I ask a question?"

"Yes, Obi-Wan."

"Why did you not tell me Master Lasna’s granddaughter was in charge of this investigation?"

"Was it necessary?" Qui-Gon waited for Obi-Wan to nod his head no. "There are times when knowing everything is knowing too much. You should learn that there are times when you only need to know the bare essentials."

"Yes, Master," Obi-Wan reached for the datapad Qui-Gon had slid across the table. "Are these the reports?" Qui-Gon nodded. Obi-Wan scanned down the screen.

"The map of where the bodies were found," Obi-Wan set the datapad down on the table and pointed at the blinking red dots, "seems to show a pattern. The first body was discovered in the middle of Gellan. The second at approximately 1½ kilometers out from the epicenter; third, 2.5; fourth, 4.2; fifth, 6.8. Each body has been found X divided by half p and added to X, X standing for how far the one just before was found. The next body will likely be found around here," Obi-Wan drew a circle with his finger, "at approximately 2540 kilometers from the epicenter. But knowing where the next body will be found doesn’t help very much in preventing the 17th murder."

"That is a very wise observation, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon stood up. "You have learned much these past 10 years. To admit when you are ignorant of something is perhaps the wisest action."

Weeks passed by. The EDI agents began to not walk on pins and needles around Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan. Obi-Wan especially enjoyed all the time he had to spend with Selia. He didn’t know how to feel about this. He was here on official business, and this did not seem like the time to be indulging himself in fantasies. On more than one occasion, Qui-Gon had sent Obi-Wan a message to "concentrate" if he had been spending too much time following the lieutenant’s movements.

The 17th body had not shown up, and the entire office began to relax, whispering among themselves, "The killer is frightened of the Jedi. He won’t kill again."

Then the humanoid, male, mid-20s, was found, as Obi-Wan had predicted, at 2,542.94 kilometers out.

"Reaper droids found him," the local constable nervously greeted the EDI party. "We are a farming village, not many people. Never had anything like this happen."

"When?" Captain Pavnacy asked.

"Just after sunrise. He’s over there." The constable pointed shakily to where the weaving grain abruptly turned to shorn stubs. "The droids stopped gleaning when they found him."

"Thank you, constable. We’ll take it from here," Qui-Gon walked over to the body, Obi-Wan close on his heels.

"This may be the break we need. We’ve never seen a body this fresh."

"What have you found?" Selia ran up to the Jedi. "Any clues?"

"He appears to have been stabbed," Obi-Wan turned to face her. She seemed to have a defeated air about her.

"Master Qui-Gon believes we may find a clue to help us," Obi-Wan tried to bolster her moral.

"Does anyone recognize the victim?" Qui-Gon asked.

"No," Selia said. "This is a small farming village. Only a few farmers, who own the land. Most of the work is done by droids," she pointed toward a line of silenced droids. "He must have been brought from another location."

"It seems our killer may be finding his prey in one area, instead of near where they were found. All the other victims had dealings near the areas where they were found. The further he moves out, the farther he will have to transport them," Qui-Gon turned to face Selia for the first time. "I would recommend you put all of Eidan on alert. If anyone misses a family member or a friend, contact EDI immediately. We should be cautious."

"Yes, sir," Selia said. "I’ll issue the notice immediately." She keyed a command into her wrist link.

"The further he moves out, the wider our circle will be. We must find him soon or else we will be stretched thin. The next victim will be more than 4,000 kilometers out." Qui-Gon began to walk back to the speeder. Obi-Wan easily matched his wide strides, but Selia trotted along, having difficulty keeping up with the Jedi’s strides. Obi-Wan slowed his pace and motioned for Selia to as well.

"He probably wishes to meditate on this."

"Meditate on what?" she asked. "He barely spent 10 minutes examining the body."

"I promise you, he observed more in those 10 minutes than I could in 10 days. Are you going to transport the body back to Gellan?"

"Yes, we’ll run the standard autopsy, I.D. him and identify his family. Sergeant!" she called after an officer, "make the usual arrangements. We’ll head back to Gellan as soon as the body’s on its way."

The rest of the morning, Qui-Gon sat alone in the speeder. Obi-Wan knew this was not the time to interrupt his master, and informed the EDI agents as well. There was not much for him to do. Selia seemed as bored as Obi-Wan. She paced back and forth in front of him. Occasionally asking questions like "How long is he going to be there?" and "Do you think he knows who our killer is?" to which Obi-Wan answered with a simple "I don’t know." Obi-Wan noticed how her hair was beginning to come loose from her braid. It clung to her damp face.

"Would it shock you if I said I really want to rip this guy's heart out, Padawan?" Her question startled him.

"No. In fact I’ve felt the same way before on this mission. I’ve spent much time in meditation. I didn’t expect it to get to me like this."

She laughed, "You just confessed a weakness." She glanced over at the elder Jedi again. "Has he ever?"

"Not to me, no. But a Padawan rarely will hear such a thing from a master."

"But you know he’s not perfect."

"Perfect he is not. I often don’t agree with him, but I keep my mouth closed. It’s not my place to -"

"Lt. Noars!" a flushed officer ran up. "The Cherden police just called. They just found what appears to be the 18th victim."

"So soon?" Selia asked. "We’ve never had two this close together before." Her legs seemed to give way. Obi-Wan steadied her. He turned to where his master was. Qui-Gon looked up, nodded and worked his way through the crowd which had grown larger as the day progressed.

"Cherden," Selia said. "That would put him - or her - at the four thousand out range."

"Her, lieutenant," the officer said. Obi-Wan let go of Selia and met Qui-Gon

"Another victim has been found, Obi-Wan?" Qui-Gon asked.

"Yes, in Cherden. A female."

"This is unanticipated."

"Could the murderer..."

"No, he’s not getting sloppy Obi-Wan. Cherden is nearly 7,000 kilometers away. This body is on the other side of Gellan. I think he is playing with us. He thinks he can beat us. Overconfidence. It could be his downfall."

"Are you going to Cherden, Master?"

"Yes. You accompany Lt. Noars back to Gellan with this victim."

The sun was setting just as Selia and Obi-Wan made it back to Gellan. After dropping the body off with the medical examiner, they headed to the EDI headquarters. Obi-Wan followed her to her office.

"Sit. Just let me file a preliminary report. It will be easy. Done this 16 times before." Obi-Wan noticed the sarcasm in her voice.

"You’ve had a rough day, Selia," using her given name for the first time.

She looked up from the computer screen, "I doubt I’d have made it through the day without having you around, Obi-Wan." She clearly enjoyed returning the use of his first name.

"At times I think you miss being around Jedi."

"I do. I wouldn’t have made it through my mother’s death without the wonderful Jedi at the temple."

Obi-Wan could sense she wanted to talk about her life, she just needed prompting. "Why did you go to the temple?"

"My father is a xenoarchaeologist. He didn’t feel it would be fair to me to drag me to backwater planets, and he couldn’t just leave me alone on Eidan. My grandmother took me in. She knew I wanted to go into criminal justice - the closest career I could get to being a Jedi - and Coruscant Academy would take me as a student at 17.

"The Jedi helped me mourn my loss. Helped me learn to accept the fact I would always carry the pain and learn to accept the fact that I would forget things about mom. The first time I tried to remember her laugh and couldn’t...get the pitch right..."

"The pain of losing her came again."

"I wish dad had come with me to the temple. I think he just wanted to leave. To forget everything. Haven’t seen him in two years. He’s searching for the homeworld of some long extinct civilization. Last I heard from him, he was out near the Rim." She smiled sadly.

After a moment's pause she said, "All done! Now, I’m starving. Join me for dinner? I know of the best restaurant in Gellan."

"I’d be honored. Would you like to change?"

"Yes. I can’t relax in this uniform. You are always one step ahead of me, Padawan. My speeder’s in the garage," she turned to walk out the door. "But I don’t guess you have a change of clothes?" She pulled on his robe. "Even if you did change, you’d still be a Padawan."

They walked to her speeder in silence. During the drive to her house, Selia pointed out various buildings. Turning on a side street, she pulled up in front of a modest home. "You aren’t going to sit here are you?" He got out of the speeder and began up the path.

"It would be better if I waited here," he said as he stopped.

"Okay," she sighed. "I’ll be just a minute." She walked into her home with a glance over her shoulder to the Jedi walking back to her speeder. After a quick jump in the refresher, she put on her favorite dress. She stepped out of the door and waved. She was wearing a pale blue halter-style dress which brought out her ice-blue eyes. Her hair was pulled up similar to the way Obi-Wan had first seen it, only this time, it appeared to have been done with more care and had a jeweled chain holding it up.

Obi-Wan helped her in. "Where are we going?"

"To your hotel."

"My hotel?" Obi-Wan asked. Was she trying to seduce him, he wondered. Or was this all in his head. Obi-Wan had never felt so trapped before.

"They have a wonderful restaurant. Eidan put you up in the nicest hotel in Gellan.

"I didn’t know that," he said desperately trying to think of a way to get the conversation on small talk. He was going insane. He wondered why in the galaxy had Qui-Gon put him in this situation? He was a Jedi, and had been able to get himself out of lots of sticky situations. But somehow this was different. Selia seemed to pick up on his mood - which didn’t help Obi-Wan - and began chatting about nothing. Obi-Wan felt his stomach flip when the speeder pulled up at the hotel.

Dinner went better than Obi-Wan had expected. The conversation never drifted to topics he felt uncomfortable with. He soon found himself laughing. Suddenly he was very glad Qui-Gon had sent him here with her. Obi-Wan noticed the way her blue eyes lit up when she laughed, the way she played with a loose tendril of hair, and the way she nervously bit her bottom lip. As the waiter droid cleared away the last dish, Obi-Wan wished this was a 23-course meal.

"Kuten is about to rise," she looked out onto the terrace. "Let’s watch," she pushed back her chair. This time Obi-Wan didn’t hesitate to follow her lead. He noticed how the cut dress back revealed her back. The terrace was empty this late at night - many being frightened of the EDI alert. Selia half skipped, half walked over to the railing. Obi-Wan stood just behind her and rested his chin on the top of her head.

"Do you know what gives Kuten its red color?" she asked.

"I haven’t had much time to learn about Eidan."

"Iron. The entire moon is a big iron block. Nexpa - that one," she pointed at the blue moon high in the sky, "is composed of almost entirely copper. When the two moons converge, the entire sky takes on a violet hue. It only happens once every 22 years. I was born during the last convergence. It happens again in two days."

"That explains why you love the moons," he leaned his head back to see the moon overhead.

Slowly Kuten began to rise. Selia leaned against Obi-Wan. His arms wrapped around her waist. Selia closed her eyes and let her head fall forward, allowing Obi-Wan the chance to kiss the nape of her neck. Sensing no hesitation from her, he twisted her around. She stood on her tiptoes and kissed him lightly on the lips before he had a chance to kiss her. With this invitation he kissed her back, more forcefully and passionately. He pulled her closer and lifted her off her feet. "Do..."

Once again she seemed to sense his thoughts. "Yes," she whispered. Obi-Wan turned. She held onto his outstretched hand as he led her to the turbolift. She was surprised that nobody seemed to notice them, although they passed several people in the hallways. He pushed her in the door gently.

"Jedi mind trick," he answered before she could ask. "Qui-Gon probably wouldn’t have approved."

"Well, it wouldn’t do to have the respected Jedi and the responsible EDI agent seen entering this room." She pulled away from him and wandered around the room. "I’d heard from grandmother how well Jedi are treated on Eidan, but even this seems..."

"A bit extravagant," Obi-Wan finished, closing the door behind him. She met Obi-Wan’s gaze. He broke the gaze and let his eyes wander to his bedchamber. Following his gaze, Selia walked to the room. The Jedi followed her.

"No," Selia laughed, "this is a bit extravagant." She shook her head incredulously as she looked at the ornate, gilded furniture.Taking a visual sweep of the room, she said, "Private balcony, nice." He walked over to her. Her eyes fell on the open chamber door. Obi-Wan raised a hand and the door closed swiftly. "I’ve tried to do that before. Move things with the Force. Never been able to. I thought I might be able to..."

"It takes lots of concentration. It’s harder to do than it appears." She walked over to him and tugged on his braid. Obi-Wan looked into her eyes, "I feel I should tell you..."

"That you’ve never done this before, Padawan. I guessed as much. How many times have you kissed a woman before?"

"Not many," he said sheepishly.

"You kissed me better than any man I’ve ever known," she said, leaning forward for another kiss. With a boost of confidence, Obi-Wan kissed her again.

Slowly he let his lips fall down her chin to her neck. He reached behind her neck and ran his fingers through her hair. He found the chain’s clasp; it clattered lightly on the marble floor and her long hair fell down around her face. Wind from the open balcony blew several stands of her hair in front of her face. Obi-Wan slid them back, tucking them behind her ears, then letting his hands slide down to cup her face in his strong hands. She began to pull on his robe. He quickly helped her and shrugged it off. Her hands then began to unfasten his belt.

"Here, let me," he said carefully unhooking his lightsaber from the belt. She began backing toward the side of the large bed. He placed his saber on the bedside table. With the belt gone, it didn’t take long for the tunic to join the robe on the floor. By now, they had reached the edge of the bed. Obi-Wan reached behind her neck and unhooked the high collar. The blue dress slowly slid off her frame, revealing a perfectly toned body. He lifted her up, placing her on the edge of the bed. Selia propped herself up with her elbows as he bent down to pull her slippers off, realizing only then that his boots were still on. He quickly unfastened them.

She sat up straight on the bed and reached for the waist of his trousers. Taking the hint, he removed them. Selia pulled him closer, looking into his bright blue eyes. She pushed herself up further onto the bed and laid back. The top of her head just reached the other side, with her ankles just on the bed. Obi-Wan climbed onto the bed and laid down beside her. She turned her head toward him, "What?" she asked.

"I was trying to decide where to start; lips, feet, or somewhere in between."

She sat up and leaned back against the ornately carved headboard. "We have all night. I’m sure you can get everything in. You are a Jedi," she smiled mischievously.

He took an outstretched foot, rubbing it gently with his strong hands. Suddenly he pulled on the foot, causing her to slide down flat on her back; she gasped at the speed. He leaned over top of her and kissed her gaping mouth. She reached up and held onto his muscled back. His hands slid down and wrapped around the small of her back. Before she could react, she found herself on top.

Her hair fell down around her face and brushed against his. Straddling his waist, she ran her fingers down the bridge of his nose and traced his kiss-swollen lips. Obi-Wan reached up and traced the base of her breast, causing a sigh to escape from her lips. His fingers gently circled until they reached her taut nipple. Selia flung her head back, in the process arching her back. Obi-Wan sat up, she slid off of him and rested on her knees, with his muscled legs wrapped around her. He lowered his head and kissed her other breast. Somehow he seemed to know exactly how she liked to be touched. Never before had Selia felt this pleased.

She ran her fingers through his close cropped hair. With his free hand, he took her right hand — fingers entwined. She lowered her left hand to his pulsing organ. With a light touch, she heard a low groan emerge from his lips and they released her breast. She fell forward on top of him. This time she led as they rolled over again. His lips moved from her nipple to the valley between her heaving breasts. His tongue slowly traced a line until it reached her navel — circling it. His hands rubbed her outer thighs, slowly moving upwards.

Obi-Wan slid one hand under her thigh, raising it slightly. With the other hand he fingered her soft curly hair. It was softer than he had thought. Selia parted her legs, giving him access. His fingers found their way to the moist skin hidden beneath. He slowly rubbed her pleasure zone. In response she tickled his ear with her fingernail. The sighs and groans from the lovers grew louder. Selia’s eyes flickered open as she realized his fingers had entered her. Gently he rubbed her on the inside. Her hand reached over her head and grabbed a lace pillow.

She began to beg, but he foresaw her desire and slid over top of her. Their blue eyes met. Suddenly he was in her, just barely. She closed her eyes and reached down to his firm butt. He pushed himself in all the way. At the same time, he could feel Selia relaxing and tensing. Soon they moved in perfect rhythm. Again Selia opened her eyes, and tears began to roll down her temples.

"Why are you crying? Am I hurting you, my love?" Obi-Wan asked, suddenly unsure.

"Everything is fine. I’m crying because I love you," she moaned.

Their movements intensified until Selia could feel herself peaking - the aura filled her body. Obi-Wan began to feel a pleasant sensation he had never before experienced. Together they cried out, reaching fulfillment. Moments later, he rolled from on top of her. She curled up beside him. He wrapped his strong arms around her. Together they enjoyed the deep sleep of lovers.

Obi-Wan opened his eyes, first taking in how the moonlight shone on Selia’s body, second, that they were still on top of the covers. He looked at how her knees bent, one leg tucked up higher than the other. He brushed her hair from her face. She lifted her head up.

"What time is it?" she asked groggily.

He looked out onto the balcony, "I think about an hour to sunrise. Only one moon is still up. Cold?"

"A little," she said. "You mean we never got under the covers?"

"It would appear not," he began tugging at the rumpled covers until they were under them.

"I know of a better way to keep warm. And the second time is always better than the first."

Obi-Wan needed no more encouragement.

Several hours later, Qui-Gon entered the hotel. It had been a long journey to Cherden, and that victim had yielded as little information as the others. As he got nearer to his and Obi-Wan’s suite, he could feel that something had taken place.

Quietly he entered the room and walked to Obi-Wan’s door. Silently opening it he noticed the sleeping couple. Sighing, he shut the door and walked over to the table.

Obi-Wan, he silently called, would you and Selia get in here, now!

Inside the room, Obi-Wan’s eyes opened. Gently, he lifted Selia off of his body, and climbed out of bed.

"What is it, Obi-Wan?" she asked.

"Qui-Gon is back," he nodded toward the door. "He wants to see us." He quickly pulled on his trousers. "Now."

Crawling out of bed, Selia was unsteady on her feet. She reached down and grabbed Obi-Wan’s cloak. With his tunic on, Obi-Wan opened the door, Selia pattered after him.

"Yes, Master?" Obi-Wan asked, almost afraid to have his questioned answered.

"Sit down," he motioned to the waiting chairs, "both of you."

Selia sat down, pulling Obi-Wan’s robe tight around her.

"Do you know what you’ve done?"

"It’s not against the Code..." Obi-Wan began.

"True, but you know the Jedi visit many planets which are very strict about sexual relations. It is not proper for a Jedi to go around sleeping with whomever he wants."

"But I plan to marry her," he started.

"Marry me?" Selia asked. "You are serious?"

Answer carefully, Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon warned.

Casting a look at his master, he nodded and took her hand. "I am serious."

Qui-Gon pushed a datapad to Selia, "I suggest you send a communiqué to your grandmother." She shook her hand out of the long sleeve and took the datapad. "If I remember correctly, you have a higher than normal midi-chlorian count?"

"Yes, sir. I’m Force-sensitive. Just not enough to be trained."

"Obi-Wan, the Council would most likely approve this marriage. She is the granddaughter of a Jedi Master and is Force sensitive. Genetically, you would have Force-strong children with a high midi-chlorian count. Selia, you realize you would have to give up your career here and live in the temple. Being married to a Jedi will place you in danger."

"I know. Grandfather lived there until he died. Mom until she married and moved back to our homeworld. And remember I lived in the temple when I was 16. I would be willing to move there. More than willing."

"Is that a yes?" Obi-Wan dared to ask.

Selia smiled, "Yes."

Qui-Gon let them have a moment before he cleared his throat. "The day is moving on. And we do have work to do. I suggest you both bathe and get ready."

Selia gritted her teeth, "I don’t have my uniform."

"No uniform? What then did you wear here?" Qui-Gon asked, exasperated.

"A very becoming blue dress, Master," Obi-Wan smiled.

Letting out a sigh, he looked at his beaming Padawan. Where does she live?

Obi-Wan sent a mental picture of her house.

Qui-Gon stood up, "I’ll be back soon with your clothes, Selia." He strode to the door. "And please, try to act professional today. We don’t need any complications." With that, the graying Jedi left the room.

"When did you decide to propose to me, Obi-Wan?" Selia asked as she made her way to the refresher in Obi-Wan’s quarters.

"Sometime between the terrace and the door. Caf?" he called from the living quarters.

"Please," she answered as she wandered to the balcony and looked down on the city. Skyscrapers were rare in Gellan, a few in the commercial zones. Many architects shied away from designing tall buildings - the visions of crushed lower levels and thousands of lost lives after The Storm were still vivid two centuries later. "I guess I’ll have to get used to living in a land of tall buildings," she called into the suite.

A minute later, Obi-Wan returned with two cups of warm caf. Handing Selia one, he leaned over the balcony, "Not nearly as far up as on Coruscant. Qui-Gon once took me to the lower levels, but they are even higher off the ground than this."

Placing her mug carefully on the banister, Selia stretched her arms wide. In doing so, the Jedi cloak opened slightly, revealing her bare skin. Obi-Wan nearly choked on his caf. Setting his own cup beside hers, he walked over to her. He slid his hands under the robe. "I never knew those robes were so becoming," he whispered.

"You don’t know how sexy they are, my Obi-Wan. The way it flutters after your steps, the way you seem to disappear in it at times."

Obi-Wan’s hands slid to the small of her back and drew her close. She wrapped his Padawan braid around her finger and pulled his face close. He kissed her lips, biting them softly. Selia’s hands reached for his trousers, loosing them.

"Qui-Gon will be back soon," Obi-Wan whispered hoarsely.

"I don’t live that close," she tugged on them until they fell to the floor. He stepped out of them and backed her up to the railing. Obi-Wan lifted her up on the banister. She shook her legs free from the robe and wrapped them around Obi-Wan.

He held on to her tight and forcefully entered her. Starting slowly, his rhythm quickly picked up pace. Selia grasped onto the banister and let out a small cry, "What if somebody sees us?"

"We are more than 30 stories up. I would be surprised if anyone could see us. Besides, I’ve taken care of that."

"Jedi Trick?" she asked between groans.

"One of many." Obi-Wan pushed harder into her, filling her completely. He could feel her legs tightening around him. Her head flung back, her hair dangling toward the ground. His robe slipped off one of her shoulders. He blew on the bare shoulder, causing a moan to escape from her. She lifted her head back up and looked into his face.

Selia’s heartbeat quickened. She began to cry louder. He could almost feel her pleasure - the combination was delirious. Stroking her from the inside, he could feel her orgasm coming - as was his own. The anticipation was unbearable. Suddenly she opened her mouth as if to scream, but nothing emerged. Her legs dropped from their hold. Panting, she carefully let go of the banister and wrapped her arms around Obi-Wan’s neck. He stepped back, taking her with him.

"I don’t think I can stand," she said.

"I’ll carry you, then," Obi-Wan scooped her off her feet. His robe dangled from under her and turned to find his way to the refresher.

"I think...I’m going...to have to...take some...exercise classes," she said, "to increase my...stamina."

"Aren’t newly engaged couples supposed to act like this?" he asked as he set her down on her feet, but didn’t let go of her - her legs still seemed unsteady.

"Three times...a bit much for one night for most human males," she said still regaining her breath. "Jedi do have more stamina. I can’t feel my feet," she laughed. "My nervous system must be overloaded." She looked at the refresher, "I don’t know if I can do this by myself."

"Then I’ll help," Obi-Wan pulled the robe off of her.

Mere minutes later, Qui-Gon returned. Hearing giggling coming from the direction of Obi-Wan’s refresher, he sighed and set Selia’s clothes beside his apprentice’s door. Taking a seat on a divan, he sighed again. He had seen ranthabs in heat with more self-control.

The trio entered the EDI office. Qui-Gon had strategically placed himself between Obi-Wan and Selia. Casting one last glance to each of them, he mouthed the word "control." She calmly gathered herself - she felt as if everyone in the office was looking at her. Nodding to the Jedi, she walked to her office.

For most of the morning she was busy with paperwork. Aides kept coming to her for questions. She was called to the captains’ office a few times. The few times she was in close quarters with Obi-Wan, they acted as they had before. They carefully avoided eye contact and referred to each other as Lieutenant Noars and Jedi Kenobi. By mid-day both were ready for some time alone.

Sensing this, Qui-Gon suggested they go to the coroner and pick up the reports. When Captain Pavnacy questioned why they couldn’t just get the files transferred, Qui-Gon replied, "We don’t know for sure if the lines are secure. I would rather not risk it." He turned to Obi-Wan and Selia, letting a small smile form.

"Yes, Master. We will be back shortly," Obi-Wan offered Selia his arm.

After they had left the room, Captain Pavnacy glanced at Qui-Gon, "There really is nothing wrong with the communications relay. And you know it. I should’ve seen it coming." She let out a chuckle.

Returning from the medical examiner’s office, Obi-Wan took hold of Selia’s hand. "No one will notice."

"Coruscant’s summers aren’t this bad. I won’t miss this heat," she said. "I sent grandmother the communiqué. She replied back. She’s coming tonight."

"Oh," Obi-Wan answered. "Did she say anything else?"

"No." They walked in silence a bit longer. "Oh, look, a frozen krame shop. Have you ever had frozen krame?"

"No, what is it?"

"It’s a frozen desert, frozen terz milk blended with a sweet of your choice. They are very popular during Gellan summers." She led him over to the shop and ordered two cups. She climbed up on the counter stool and let her feet dangle. "I will miss this," she said taking a bite.

Obi-Wan took one of the flimsy menu scattered across the countertop. Setting down his spoon, he pulled the coroner’s data pad out of his robe. Scanning down it furtively, he pulled out a comlink.

"What are you doing?"

"I feel something. Something not right," he told Selia as he activated the comlink.

"Master?"

"Yes, Obi-Wan."

"The autopsies on the previous victims. Would you please tell me what was found in their digestive tracts?"

Qui-Gon read off the list. "Did you find something?"

"Maybe. We’ll be there in a few minutes." He shut off the comlink.

"What is it?"

"I think I might have our common thread, Selia." Motioning to the waiter, Obi-Wan asked, "Can I have this menu?"

"That’s what they are there for."

Waving down the first cab, Selia showed her I.D. and before long they were walking in the EDI headquarters. Qui-Gon stood in the lobby, "I alerted Captain Pavnacy we had something. What is it?" he asked as the lift doors closed behind them.

"Our common thread, Master."

Captain Pavnacy met them at the lift, "This way. I’ve assembled our staff in the conference room."

Selia realized she was holding Obi-Wan’s hand. She let go and whispered, "I’ll catch up with you later," and rushed off to the room.

Obi-Wan followed his Master into the room. The entire homicide department sat around a large table, Selia near the head. Captain Pavnacy was filling her staff in on what she knew, " - our young Jedi, will fill us all in."

"This may lead to nothing, but if you will look at the autopsy reports, all the victims had terz milk in their digestive tracts. And all had some sort of sweet candy or fruit as well." He laid the flimsy menu on the table. "All the sweet candies and fruits are varieties of frozen krame."

"We missed it," Selia sighed. "Hundreds of persons working on this and we missed it." Selia tapped on her datapad. "There are 26 frozen krame vendors in Gellan. Most should keep security cameras. If we are lucky, our killer will show up in a few of them - along with the victims. Sergeant."

"Already on it, ma’am," he said, walking out the door.

New hope filled the conference room. Agents filed out of the room, talking hurriedly. After all but the Jedi and Captain Pavnacy had left the room, Selia jumped up and hugged Obi-Wan, "Thanks!"

"I see I was right," Captain Pavnacy said. "Communications indeed!"

"Here, lieutenant," the Mirea said, "At this one shop 13 of our victims have shown up just 24 hours before their deaths. And each time, she was present."

"She?" Selia asked. "Our serial killer is a woman?"

"That’s her. I can feel it." Obi-Wan looked over her shoulder.

Qui-Gon stood back, letting his apprentice take control. He enjoyed watching his apprentice work without his help. Soon he would be ready for the Trials. Qui-Gon would miss him, he had been a good apprentice.

"Run a check," Selia said, "see if we can find a name, address, or anything on her."

"Getting it now. Jal Hosser."

"Does she have a record?"

"No. Just general bio. She’s a math professor at Gellan University."

"That would explain the drop pattern," Selia said.

"Master, should we - "

"Yes," he cut off his apprentice. "Lieutenant, we will need some Eidani clothing."

Before long, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were dressed as native Eidani. Luckily the Eidani men commonly wore hats. Selia tucked the braid under the hat.

"Your braid won’t give you away this time, Obi-Wan," Selia kissed him on the mouth, "Good luck!"

She turned to the rest of her gaping agents. "What? Never seen a good luck kiss? Everyone got their blasters? Good. The Jedi will go to the shop. We will either be undercover nearby or in speeders. No one moves until the Jedi alert us. Let’s go."

Selia turned to Obi-Wan, "Now I’ll have two things to celebrate when grandmother arrives. I love you!"

Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon walked out of the EDI headquarters. Altering their appearance with the Force, they meandered through the city until reaching the shop. After ordering frozen krame, they sat down at a table. After nearly an hour, she showed. Ordering a krame herself, she sat down near the Jedi’s table. Now was the touchy time. Alert her of their presence, and they might never find her. Speaking quietly into his comlink, Qui-Gon informed EDI of the status.

We will move in after she has risen, Obi-Wan. Follow her for 10 meters. Then EDI will come out.

Yes, Master.

Hosser watched the patrons closely. Suddenly she quickly tapped her datapad, rose, and began to walk away.

The Jedi slowly got up and followed her. She abruptly turned the corner where Selia was stationed. Obi-Wan felt his heartbeat quicken.

"Master," he whispered, feeling a touch of fear.

"Patience Obi-Wan, Selia knows what she must do."

Calmly they turned the corner. Both Jedi were startled. Selia’s eyes were wide, struggling slightly against her captor but keeping her neck away from the vibroblade held at her throat. Obi-Wan’s hand went to his lightsaber, hidden under his clothes.

"Congratulations, Jedi. You found me. But you still think you can solve this without bloodshed, don’t you?" Hosser asked. She glanced at the young Jedi, "If you even take out your lightsabers I’ll kill her."

Qui-Gon looked into Hosser’s eyes, sensing her fear, hatred and anger. The women moved backwards to the side alley. Snarling like a rabid animal, Hosser sliced Selia’s throat. In the same instant she let her go and darted off into the alley. Selia crumpled to the ground. Anger, hatred and rage filled Obi-Wan. He pulled out his lightsaber and ignited it.

"Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon cautioned quietly, "You can not seek revenge in anger or hatred. A Jedi must follow justice. Give me your lightsaber." Reluctantly Obi-Wan turned his lightsaber over to his master and rushed forward to Selia.

"She won’t flee justice, Obi-Wan. I promise," Qui-Gon sped down the alley. Obi-Wan knelt down on the ground beside Selia. He could feel his hatred against Hosser growing. His entire body shook with rage.

"Master Qui-Gon is right, you know," Selia whispered as Obi-Wan applied pressure to her wound.

"You’ll be alright, Selia," a tear fell from his eyes. "The medic's on its way." Selia’s labored breathing began to slow. Obi-Wan used every Force healing trick he knew, but it was a battle he couldn’t win. He knew that. She knew that. Slowly she faded away. As EDI agents began to stream in, he numbly pointed in the direction Hosser and Qui-Gon had fled.

Sitting beside her lifeless body, Obi-Wan closed his eyes and meditated. He must get control. He opened his eyes as medics arrived. After unsuccessful attempt to resuscitate her, they lifted Selia’s body up and put her in the back of the speeder. Obi-Wan watched it drive off, then turned to follow his master’s steps.

Running fast, he felt the Light Side fill him. He found his Master engaged in a battle with Hosser. She had taken refuge behind several containers. Qui-Gon deftly blocked her blaster bolts. She glanced at the young Jedi and gloated,

"She’s dead. She’s dead. And you and your precious powers couldn’t save her."

"Master," Obi-Wan said, "She said you were right."

Sensing his Padawan had regained control, Qui-Gon pulled Obi-Wan’s lightsaber from his belt and tossed it to Obi-Wan. Together the Jedi advanced on Hosser's position.

Pulling a second smaller blaster from her clothing, she held it to her head. Before the Jedi could react, she pulled the trigger.

Qui-Gon led Obi-Wan back to the EDI office. He could feel the immense pain his apprentice was in. He had not said a word since the brief exchange in the alley. Qui-Gon let him have his silence. Once inside the homicide office, Obi-Wan walked directly into Selia’s office. Qui-Gon watched him go. The boy needed to mourn, needed to heal. The Jedi master knew he wouldn’t be able to help him mourn and heal. Obi-Wan would have to do that himself.

Throughout the day, the EDI agents scurried in and out of the office. After an extensive search of Hosser’s body and her quarters, they found their evidence. Rushing about, they studied the evidence and filed reports. The night was deep when Captain Pavnacy walked over to Qui-Gon, who had been sitting within sight of Selia’s office - and his apprentice, watching for any sign that he was cracking. Padawans were strong, taught to accept death as a part of the Force. But something like this - Qui-Gon stopped the thought in his head. He would not lose another Padawan.

"Thought you might like to see this," she handed a datapad to Qui-Gon, "our report. How’s he doing?"

"Surviving," Qui-Gon looked at his Padawan sitting in the now dark room.

"We just got a transmission from Master Lasna’s ship. It just landed. She’s been informed of the situation."

"Thank you, captain." Qui-Gon took the datapad and went to Obi-Wan. He did not stir in the chair. Qui-Gon sat down beside him.

"The evidence."

Obi-Wan never took his eyes off Selia’s chair.

"It appears our serial killer lost her lover in a plague. He was under the care of a Jedi healer, but he still died. There are repeated references to the krame shop. They used to meet there. She had already picked out her next two victims. She knew she would eventually be found out, and planned a suicide. As for the tongues, they were found at the spaceport in a container marked ‘Jedi Temple - Coruscant. It’s all there." Qui-Gon stood up, dropping the datapad into Obi-Wan’s lap. "It seems she was just as eager to hurt us. The murder victims were simply the tool she used to get to us."

Qui-Gon paused a moment. He knew Obi-Wan was listening, but was disturbed that he never acknowledged it. He had never acted this way before. He sensed Obi-Wan wanted to be left alone.

Standing, he said, "Master Lasna's transport has arrived. She will be here shortly," and left the dark room.

Minutes later Obi-Wan heard a light knock on the door, "Obi-Wan," the familiar woman’s voice called. "May I come in?" she asked as she turned the lights on.

He turned to face Master Lasna and nodded.

"Many lives have been saved because of the actions today, Obi-Wan," she began. "Selia would not have wanted to live on if others had died."

"I know. But it doesn’t make it easier."

"No, it doesn’t. The wound is deep, the pain is fresh."

"I don’t want to forget her. And I’m afraid I will."

"Understandable. But you must not give in to fear. Live on, become a great Jedi Knight. This might be a small setback. You’ve got a new hurdle to overcome. But you will become a great Jedi Knight."

Obi-Wan opened his mouth and closed it.

"No, I didn't come here to prevent the marriage. I always knew she should take a Jedi as her life mate." Obi-Wan buried his head in his hands and sobbed quietly. Master Lasna stood up.

"Master Qui-Gon has agreed to stay on until her funeral tomorrow night."

"Thank you," Obi-Wan said, looking up at the older version of his love. Slowly he picked up the datapad and began to read.

Master Lasna and Master Qui-Gon had let Obi-Wan spend most of the following day by himself. As evening approached, Qui-Gon located Obi-Wan in the arboretum. This time, he did acknowledge Qui-Gon. He had exchanged his bloodstained Eidani clothes for his Jedi tunic and trousers sometime during the day. Qui-Gon handed Obi-Wan’s cloak to him. As he put the cloak on he noticed her scent. He thought of how she wrapped herself in it and how it trailed along on the floor behind her. And how on the balcony she had said...

"Come, we must go," Qui-Gon gently commanded his apprentice.

The EDI agents, the victims’ families and the Jedi had gathered for Selia’s funeral. Obi-Wan could not bring himself to look at the burning pyre. He looked up at the violet-hued sky, Kuten and Nexpa in conjunction. She so wanted to see that. Tears welled up in him. Fighting to regain control Obi-Wan looked to his master for strength.

"Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon moved closer to him. Holding on to his shoulder, he said, "Let it go." Obi-Wan looked at the burning fire. Tears streamed out of his eyes. The healing had begun.

Anakin Skywalker followed his new master through the Jedi Temple. He had never been to this part of the temple. His wide eyes took everything in. "Where are we going?" he asked eagerly.

"To see a good friend of mine," Obi-Wan said. He walked down the corridor until he reached a room. Inside, Master Lasna sat on the floor, helping several young children with their exercises.

"Obi-Wan!" she said. "When I heard about Qui-Gon... How are you doing?"

"It has been several days. I still find it hard to realize he is gone. Master Lasna, I wanted you to meet my new Padawan, Anakin Skywalker."

Anakin held out his small hand. Master Lasna took his hand in her old weathered one. "Pleased to meet you, Master Lasna," Anakin said.

"It is a pleasure indeed," her kind face shone down on him. "Would you like to join my students in their exercises?"

"Can I, Master?" Anakin looked up at Obi-Wan.

"It would be a wise thing to do, Anakin. We have much to catch up on." He watched as Anakin sat down with the young children. Even though they were four or five years his junior, they knew more of the Force than he did. Eagerly they explained what they were doing. His face lit up. These children understood him better than any of his old friends had. Soon, he was one of them.

"You should be proud, Obi-Wan. To have such an apprentice. The Chosen One’s Master."

"I didn’t actually come here for you to give Anakin lessons. I came to tell you that your granddaughter saved me."

"Saved you?" Lasna asked.

"Yes. When I had let my anger and hatred overcome me in that chamber..." Obi-Wan's voice trailed off.

"You were fighting a Sith, Obi-Wan," Lasna gently touched his arm. "Any Jedi would have had a hard time controlling their anger, especially for a young Padawan who had just seen his master struck down. You did well. That is why the council granted you Jedi Knight status - without the Trials."

"They believe in me more than I do myself. Back on Eidan, Qui-Gon said, ‘You can not seek revenge in anger or hatred. A Jedi must follow justice.’ I don’t think I wanted justice - I wanted revenge. But I kept hearing Selia’s voice telling me ‘Qui-Gon is right, you know.’ I owe not only my life, but my soul, to her."

DISCLAIMER: This story is a work of fiction written in appreciation of Star Wars; to promote the franchise and to keep it alive. All characters and settings original to Star Wars are copyright to Lucasfilm, Ltd. The rest is copyright to the author.