Jedi Hearts

Chapter One: From Emotion Comes Peace

Staring at the closed doors of the Council Chamber Ember tried to release the fear she felt to the Force. Master Windu told her to wait outside while they talked to her Master. Ember was upset that her Master had been embarrassed by this particular prank. When I see Bren at the club tonight, I’m telling him that we’re done. No more pleading. No more I’m sorry…I have to say no this time and walk away. Revenge isn’t worth hurting my Master anymore.

The doors opened and Ember was escorted in to stand a half a step behind her Master. She looked at the twelve solemn faces, tucked her hands into her cloak sleeves, and waited for the lectures to begin.

“Padawan D’on,” Master Yoda began. “Punishment for you, we have decided,” The tiny green being stated as he leaned forward on his walking stick.

Ember looked at the floor for a moment to hide the embarrassing flush that covered her face and then back to the twelve Masters assembled in front of her. You knew that they would not let this one go. Levitating the food off an Ambassador’s fork was just not going to be overlooked.

“You and your Master are being sent on a mission to the outer rim to investigate several children. If they are Force sensitive, bring them back. As an example for you, another Jedi and his Padawan will escort you on this mission.” The dark skinned Master leaned foreword, hands clasped together in a steeple and pinned Ember with a disapproving look. “I hope you use this mission to learn from the example set by Master Kenobi and his Padawan. We are tired of determining punishments for you. We hope that you will use this time to meditate on the proper behavior for a Jedi.”

Oh great we’re stuck with Padawan Perfect and Master Tight Ass and they’re not here because we need them…no…it’s not like Master and I can’t take care of a couple babies. Ember’s cheeks warmed in embarrassment as she waited for her Master to accept the mission.

The Council room doors opened to admit Master Kenobi and Padawan Jinn as Ember’s Master addressed the Council members. “Yes Masters, we accept the mission.” Thirty-two year-old Master Melody Kazala could feel the anxiety radiating from her Padawan and fought the urge to send the girl comfort through the bond. I wouldn’t be standing here again if I didn’t coddle her so much.

Ember watched the Master/Padawan pair out of the corner of her eye as they strode to the center of the room to stand on the left side of her Master. Ki-Adi-Mundi resumed the explanations, “You will travel by Jedi transport to the planet Zatar.” He leaned back in his chair saying, “May the Force be with you,” dismissing the four Jedi.

{Master do we really have to take them with us.} The eighteen-year-old Padawan whined at her Master as she scowled at the back of the other Jedi pair. {The offence wasn’t that bad, Master. You know this is cruel and unusual punishment.}

The petite Master turned to her taller apprentice and pinned her with a glare before speaking through the bond with mild aggravation. {Yes Padawan the punishment is quite fitting. The Council is right, you could learn a lot from them and I’m not interested in hearing any more complaints.} Melody lifted her lavender eyes, watching Obi-Wan and his apprentice as they bowed to the Council members and turned toward her. Of all the people in the temple to send on a mission with us, they would have to choose Obi-Wan. How am I going to make it through this mission working so closely with him? He’s gorgeous; he has amazing eyes, and he was always so kind to me that he made me feel like I would melt.

Ember watched her Master blush as her eyes met Obi-Wan’s, and she smirked. So, Lyu is still interested in Master Tight Ass. She laced her next mental comment with humor. {Master, you wouldn’t be saying that because you have a major interest in Master Kenobi, now would you?} She looked down at the floor to hide her smile as the object of her Master’s fascination strolled toward them.

{Padawan, my feelings toward Master Kenobi are irrelevant. We are going on a mission with them because the Council believes that they will help provide a good example for you to follow, and I think that they may be right.} Melody said through the bond.

“Master,” the girl said, recapturing the woman’s attention. “Do I have time to tell someone good-bye when I stop at our quarters to get the bags?”

Melody tried to hide the blush that stained her pale cheeks at the younger girl’s words. Obi-Wan and she were friends during the years they had grown up but with the duties of the Jedi they had drifted apart until recently. Now whenever they were in the Temple at the same time, Obi-Wan would single her out and they would enjoy a meal or an occasional holo show. Rumors had spread, causing concern from certain Members of the Council. Ember is too perceptive… she has figured out that I feel more for Obi-Wan than I should. Melody was pulled out of her introspection by her Padawan speaking instead of communicating through the bond. “Hmm, Oh. No Padawan you do not.” Then adding through the bond, {need I remind you, this is a punishment? Food is eaten, not levitated off the forks of dignitaries.}

The young girl sighed and her slim shoulders drooped. {No Master I do not need to be reminded. May I at least pilot the ship out of the hanger?} Ember saw the look on Melody’s face and knew she had gone too far. {Never mind Master…I know punishment means not doing what I enjoy.} Great, how many times are they going to punish me for the same offence? I’m stuck for the next two weeks with the most boring, self-righteous Jedi in the entire Jedi Order and his oversexed perfect Padawan. Most likely, I will have to care for the children as well. I can’t tell Li why I won’t be at the party and I can’t talk to Bren tonight. This is undeserved torture.
***** * *****
Qui-Gon followed his Master down the hall to the Temple hanger, watching the two older Jedi as they discussed the mission and the best way to handle it. {Master, I can’t believe that they sent us on a mission with your girlfriend.} The teenage Padawan complained to his master. What do I mean? I have wanted an assignment with Ember for the last two years. Maybe she’ll notice me, although for now, she seems content to ignore us.

{Padawan} The ginger haired Master admonished his charge. {Master Kazala is a Jedi first. Therefore, I don’t want to hear any more complaints unless you want extra Kata practice.} I didn’t lie to Qui-Gon; she’s a Jedi first but maybe ….one day. Melody is a beautiful woman and the thought of being more is something I’m definitely looking forward to exploring. As the three Jedi approached the transport, the female Padawan stomped into the hanger. Obi-Wan winked at Melody and nodded at the girl, “I don’t think she wanted this mission.”

Melody smiled. That’s my Obi-Wan; he has the ability to make significant understatements. “No, I don’t think she does but as a Jedi, she must learn to do things she does not enjoy.” Her dark skirt swished as she boarded the transport and began making a survey of supplies in the galley. I don’t want to get to the planet and find that we have nothing to care for the infants with.

Obi-Wan watched Padawan D’on enter the transport and wondered what catastrophes were in store for them this mission. He reached out, touched the Force, and felt apprehension. He turned to his own Padawan saying, “Let’s go Qui-Gon.”

Three long strides put Obi-Wan and his taller apprentice aboard the older transport. He turned and looked back into the empty hanger, unable to shake the feeling that this mission was going to hold some interesting challenges for all of them. He hit the button to retract the ramp and seal the door.

“Qui-Gon why don’t you take our travel bags to the sleep room and introduce yourself to Melody’s Padawan. The two of you will work together to care for the children during this mission.” Melody came out of the galley with an expression of disgust on her face. Great, there is already a problem and we haven’t even left the Temple. I wonder if this is a sign of how this mission will proceed. She’s very lovely when she is frustrated. Her eyes turn the most beautiful shade of purple. “Melody, would you join me in the flight cabin and while I get the transport off the ground, you can tell me what’s wrong.” {Oh Padawan, I’ve heard rumors about Padawan D’on … and I want to remind you to make an effort to get along.}

Qui-Gon smiled archly as he watched his Master and the burgundy haired Master Kazala walk toward the flight cabin. {Yes Master} I think my Master likes Master Kazala more than he will admit. He looked at the door through which the Masters had disappeared; turned, and strode down the hall toward the sleep rooms, a plan forming in his mind. It will give me a chance to talk to Ember and do something for my Master at the same time.

***** * *****

Ember dropped her Master’s bag on the floor at the foot of the sleepcouch nearest the door. She placed her bag in the small closet compartment. Knowing that she was not behaving like a Jedi, the girl kneeled on the floor and began meditating when she was interrupted by the sound of footsteps in the corridor. They are too heavy to belong to Lyu. She looked up, saw the perfect padawan leaning against the doorframe, and fought to keep a groan from escaping her lips.

“Hello,” Qui-Gon smiled. “Master Obi-Wan told me to introduce myself.” Gods she's beautiful
Qui-Gon thought as he entered the room and said, “I am Qui-Gon Jinn.” I wonder if her hair is naturally white.

“Ember D’on,” she coolly answered. Does he always do what his Master tells him to do? I guess who ever gave him the name Padawan Perfect had him nailed. She dropped her head letting a curtain of platinum hair cover her face and tried to resume her mediation. Doesn’t he take a hint?

“So, Ember did you notice the way our Masters seem to get along so well?” Qui-Gon asked as he walked further into the room. “I think that I even saw them flirting?”

Ember glanced at the intruder and groaned, “No, actually, I was trying to meditate.”

Qui-Gon sat down on the bed next to where Ember was kneeling on the floor and said, “I think they like each other more than either will admit. I also believe they would make a good couple.” I think we would make a good couple too, Qui-Gon thought. “I know that Master Obi-Wan would probably go for a relationship with your Master. Do you think she is interested in him as well?”

Ember sighed, her exasperation evident. She gave up on the attempt to meditate and glared at Qui-Gon. I don’t care how good-looking he is, this is annoying, and I was trying to be good. “Padawan Jinn, I don’t know what my Master likes in men.” Not that I want Master Tight Ass and my Master together … I know that she does like Master Kenobi, but that’s beside the point…I was trying to meditate. “Now if you will excuse me, I need to work on my forms.” She rose in one fluid motion as the ship entered hyperspace; she stumbled, and fell against Qui-Gon.

Large hands caught her small waist as Qui-Gon steadied Ember. Releasing her rapidly, he grinned as she almost lost her balance again. “Yes please do. I’m sure you could use the practice.” He snickered, and standing up, he crossed the floor to enter his own room across the hall. Maybe I was wrong about us becoming a couple. She has done nothing but ignore me. Anakin and I can talk to her friends at the Temple and she ignores me, I go on a mission with her and she ignores me. Now she’s taking her frustrations out on me, too. I should have waited to speak with her about our Masters until she was done meditating, but I thought that she might like a distraction. Anakin hates to meditate and appreciates the interruptions.

Turquoise eyes flashed, as Ember made strangled noises of frustration and shouted across the room. “You arrogant son of a Kowakian monkey-lizard. The shuttle shifted and I lost my balance.” How am I going to survive a mission with him? Ember viciously yanked her hair back into a haphazard braid and secured it none to gently with a tie. Stomping past Qui-Gon’s sleep room, Ember entered the cargo bay and began releasing her frustrations to the Force, pushing her body through the complicated forms of the 20th level Kata.

In his quarters, Qui-Gon tossed the bags on the sleepcouch closest to the door and sat down. The rumors about Ember D’on are true. She is a spoiled princess.

***** * *****

Obi-Wan sank into the pilot’s seat and watched Melody gently seat herself in the co-pilot’s chair. I wonder how she feels about the four of us taking this mission together. Ember’s latest foray into the realm of mischief has made this time with Mel possible. I’ll have to thank her one day. “I guess we can skip that lunch we planned. We’ll have plenty of time to catch up during the trip.”

“Yes, I guess we can.” Melody commented adjusting her chair to a more comfortable position. I wonder why he doesn’t post-pone lunch until we get back. Does he just want to discuss our latest mission and catch up with one another?

“So what have you been up to?” Obi-Wan asked, his fingers flying over the controls as he input the coordinates for the planet Zatar.

Melody chewed the inside of her cheek in thought before answering hisstiostion. “We came back from a mission on Kuat last week. Things went very smoothly but then Ember decided to impress her friend.” Melody offered Obi-Wan a lopsided smile. “We were at a banquet to welcome a new Ambassador for the planet Orusel. Ember levitated food off the forks of the diplomats causing an hour of chaos. I had to argue with Ki-Adi-Mundi, who thought she should be placed on probation. It’s one crisis after another with Ember.” Melody took a deep breath and waited for her friend to tell her that Ember needed probation. When he didn’t she smiled in relief. “I haven’t seen you at the Temple recently. Is the Council keeping you and your padawan busy?”

Obi-Wan’s bearded features relaxed into a grin. “Qui-Gon has brought home several creatures from the planet Treills to keep my life interesting. As he always does. He glanced down at the panel and said, “We’ll land on the planet Zatar in a week.”

“Good that should give my Padawan time to consider her irreverent behavior.” She said smiling ironically. A whole week? How can I bear being confined in this small ship with Obi-Wan so near me for a whole week?

A deep chuckle rumbled through his chest as Obi-Wan skeptically agreed. “Yes, I assume that she will spend her time in meditation. Although with her reputation, I wonder if it will help.” His eyes gravitated to her face before she caught him looking at her. He quickly looked out the small view port seemingly engrossed in watching the stars. “I admit I’m glad they selected you for this mission. Even if Qui-Gon disagrees.

“I am too.” Melody admitted. I wonder if he is glad because we have an opportunity to catch up now instead of after the mission is completed. Melody leaned to one side in the chair and rested her head on her fist.

“You are?” the ginger haired Master asked in surprise.

“Yes,” Melody replied. She checked the course trajectories to avoid eye contact with Obi-Wan. I can’t let him know that I’ve fallen in love with him. He may want to remain just friends. “We haven’t talked since our last lunch. It’s hard to keep up with friends when we’re constantly coming and going on missions.”

“Oh,” he replied dejectedly, “I guess it is.” I hoped that she might have wanted to spend time with me. I guess I was wrong. “You’ve told me about Ember and your missions, so what about you? Are you seeing anyone?” Please say no. I don’t want to hear you gushing about someone else.

“There are no major changes in my life since we last saw each other. No, I’m not seeing anyone just now. Are you?” Melody fidgeted in her seat as she thought; I wonder why he wants to know if I’m seeing anyone. Does he want to know if I’m available, or is he just making idle conversation? She could feel her stomach twisting in knots as she considered that he was possibly seeing someone. I remember when he was dating Siri Tachi for nearly two years. I had to avoid seeing the two of them together, and then eveime ime I had lunch with Siri, I had to listen to her go on and on about how great he was.

Blue-green eyes twinkled, as a brilliant smile lit up Obi-Wan’s face. Thank the Force. “So is it Ember that’s keeping you too busy to think about a life beyond the Jedi order? In answer to your question, no, I am not involved with anyone either.”

Melody gazed at Obi-Wan candidly and thought, he has such a beautiful smile, and his eyes twinkle like the passing stars. “Ember does keep me busy, but not so much that I couldn’t have a social life.” Melody smiled softly at him and continued, “I would love a personal life but so far the right person hasn’t asked me.>Is >Is he ever going to realize that he is the right person for me?

Agreeing, he nodded his head. “I know what you mean. Qui-Gon is more independent now and doesn’t need me as much. I would like to have a personal life, too, but the right opportunity hasn’t presented itself.” He turned his chair toward Melody and watched her work. One of these days it will work out between us and when the right opportunity happens…if I’m patient long enough.

***** * *****

Ember walked back and forth to cool down after an hour of practicing her forms. She felt guilty for being angry at Qui-Gon. I should probably go apologize for my harsh words. He has no control over the way the Council uses him as the standard for the perfect Jedi. This mission was assigned to both of us and I shouldn’t take out my frustrations on him, after all, he is good-looking. Ember walked down the hall, stopped at his door, and cleared her throat, waiting for him to invite her in.

Qui-Gon lay on the sleep couch next to the door thrashing back and forth, moaning.

Ember watched Qui-Gon’s contortions and realized he was asleep. She walked into the room and called out to him. When that didn’t work, Ember sat down on the couch next to him and gently shook him saying, “Qui-Gon … Qui-Gon. Wake up. You’re having a bad dream.”

“Master no!” Qui-Gon yelled, bolting upright. He breathed deeply and looked around the room trying to orient himself. He noticed Padawan D’on sitting beside him with a concerned look on her beautiful face and he remembered they were on a Jedi transport. I must have been dreaming.

Ember stood and quickly tried to step away from the couch before Qui-Gon noticed she was there. In her haste to leave, her feet became tangled in the strap of his travel bag. She spun around, wildly swinging her arms to keep from falling. She failed miserably and landed full force on top of the still dazed padawan Jinn. Why is it that I can’t stay on my feet around him? He is going to think I’m literally throwing myself at him. Although, maybe that isn’t such a bad idea.

“What are you doing here?” Qui-Gon demanded, startled to find Ember, now sitting in his lap. Talk about fantasies coming true. I have to get her off me, before my body reacts to the way she’s pressed against me.

Ember grinned and thought, lying on top of you, brainless. She lowered her head as if she was going to kiss him and grinned impishly. “Relax braid; I ; I wasn’t going to ravish you.” Well not today anyway. “You were having a nightmare and I was trying to wake you.”

Her breath was warm against his face and Qui-Gon tried desperately to control his own breathing and stop his heart from racing. I’m laying here with the most beautiful girl in the Temple and she looks like she’s going to kiss me. All I have to do …wait, what did she call me? He recalled her words and took a deep breath to calm himself. “Good,” he snapped pushing her off his lap and she landed roughly on the floor.

“You insufferable … arrogant ….oaf.” Ember sputtered, rubbing her sore bottom. “You were having a nightmare and I was just trying to help. Next time I’ll let you suffer you ignorant Bantha poodoo.”

“I’m sorry sweetheart but when you try to wake someone from a nightmare, you don’t sit on their lap inches from their face like some kind of slut.” Qui-Gon informed her hotly. Sith I just called her a slut, and shoved her to the floor. I wanted to get her off me, not hurt her.

“Slut … who me? I am not the one rumored to have had sex with every female padawan in the Temple … and trying to work his way through the knights.” Ember got to her feet and glared down at him. “I guess you’re speaking with the voice of experience, braid boy.” Ember spun on her heel and stomped out of the room.

“You conceited Jedi reject,” I was a fool to think I liked her. Qui-Gon thought as he yelled after a fleeing Ember. His guilt for what he had said and done momentarily forgotten.

Ember shook her head in aggravation and thought. Just who does he think he is? She stormed down the hall and straight into the flight cabin. Wanting to talk to her Master about Qui-Gon’s mistreatment, she saw her Master and Master Kenobi talking and flirting. “Master Kenobi you’re not fooling anyone. You and my Master are dancing around each other. So please, just kiss her and let’s get on with the mission. Perhaps your Padawan will quit acting like the space Hutt he is, and cease asking for my help to get you two together.”

Ember turned and bolted from the flight cabin leaving Melody and Obi-Wan starring after her in utter disbelief.

***** * *****

Obi-Wan felt himself growing warm, but searched Melody’s face for a reaction. How would she feel and what would she do if I did kiss her? I’ll never know if I don’t try. There is no try. Either do or do not. I just hope this doesn’t ruin our friendship. Obi-Wan unhurriedly rose from the pilot’s chair, wiped his sweaty palms on his trousers, and reaching down, he cupped her chin in his right hand. Tilting her head back, his tongue nervously darted out to wet his lips as he gently caressed her mouth with a feathery kiss. He pulled away murmuring softly, “I have a Padawan I need to speak to.” His soft leather boots made no sound as Obi-Wan left the flight deck, walked down the hall, and entered his sleep room, to find his Padawan making the bed. “Qui-Gon, I thought I told you to make an effort to get along with Melody’s apprentice.”

Qui-Gon turned to see Obi-Wan standing in the doorway, sighed and flopped down on the sleep couch. “I tried to be nice. I introduced myself like you told me, but she is impossible to get along with.”

Obi-Wan scrubbed his face with an open palm and replied, “Padawan… first, no one is impossible to get along with. It may be very difficult …but not impossible. Obi-Wan kept his tone even and continued speaking. “Second, maybe her attitude has something to do with the fact you tried to use her to get Melody and I together. Would you care to explain why you did that?”

“So she’s a tattle tale also.” Qui-Gon muttered. He ran his fingers through his short spiky cocoa colored hair and said, “I was just trying to help you. It’s obvious that you like Master Melody and I suspect that she feels the same way about you. I thought I could find out from Padawan D’on if her Master feels the same way.”

“Qui-Gon, I’m old enough to figure out my own love life, imp.” Obi-Wan smiled. “Thank you for wanting to help me, but that was not the way to handle it. Especially with someone as blunt as Padawan D’on. Obi-Wan chuckled and wondered how long he would have waited to take the initiative if Ember had not burst into the cabin. “Padawan you should not make assumptions. She just told me to kiss her Master and get done with it, so you would stop bothering her.”

Qui-Gon’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Did you, kiss her I mean.” Qui-Gon questioned. Does Ember dislike me that much that she would say something like that to our Masters?

Obi-Wan restrained his laughter, “Padawan that is none of your business. We are discussing your ability to get along with thher her half of our team. I think, for the remainder of our trip, you and Padawan D’on can work on saber drills and forms together. In addition, you will apologize for putting her in a position between her Master and me.”

“Master, you have no idea about what you’re asking. She may be beautiful but she has a lightsaber for a tongue.” He said grinding his teeth in frustration.

“Qui-Gon I have worked with Ember at the shelter, and I have to tell you that she was very good to work with. The children loved her and the attendants praised her highly. It seems only you find it difficult to get along with her. Whatever happened, put it behind you, and begin again. You never know it might be her guarding your back one-day.” Obi-Wan admonished his apprentice, trying to hide his mirth from the miserable boy.

“Yes Master.” Qui-Gon replied looking down at the floor. If one day it’s up to her to guard my back, I will never become a knight.

“Good, I think you can handle this as soon as I leave. The words, ‘I’m sorry’ don’t become easier with time. I’m going to see what I can find to fix for last meal,” Obi-Wan remarked as he walked out the door.

“Now?” Qui-Gon groaned putting his head into his hands.

{Yes Padawan.} Obi-Wan sent through the bond smiling, as he pulled several pots out of the storage area and began the preparation for the last meal.

***** * *****

Melody stared after the departing Obi-Wan with a wide-eyed smile and thought he kissed me. He actually figured it out and kissed me. Still smiling, she made sure the autopilot was on and left the cabin to go find her Padawan.

Ember, upset from the events of the day paced the floor of her sleep quarters. This did little to calm her ragged nerves and she knelt on the floor assuming a meditative pose.

“Padawan,” Melody began as she entered the quarters she would share with Ember for the duration of the mission. “I hope you’re meditating on how wrong you were to speak to Master Obi-Wan in such a manner.”

Ember, dejectedly looked up at the petite woman replied, “Yes Master.”

“Good, I expect you to meditate for the next hour and then I want you to apologize to Master Obi-Wan for your rude behavior. I would also suggest that you put forth a real effort to get along with Padawan Jinn.” Melody told her apprentice. “Now that I’ve let you know that your behavior was wrong, I wanted to say thank you.” Melody beamed.

“I see that Master Kenobi took my advice, Lyu.” An hour …what is this pound on Ember Day? Ember groaned, “Yes Master… but there is no possible way to get along with that… that…. Oh, never mind. Master it’s just not possible. Besides, you throw salt on slugs not become friends with them. I tried to help him and he… its just impossible.”

“Ember,” Melody sighed, “I’ve learned that nothing is impossible if you’re willing to work hard enough for it. Please, for me, try again, Avazon.”

Ember hung her head in a silent plea to who ever was listening not to have to do this. She knows I won’t refuse when she asks me to do it for her. “I will try my best. If he calls me a Jedi reject again, I’m not responsible for my actions. “Master tonight after my shower and meditations, May I place a call to the Temple?”

“Yes, you may. Thank you for agreeing to try.” Melody said. I wonder if they can make it through the mission without killing one another.

“Thank you, Master. May I take my shower first and then meditate? I spent an hour on the 20th level kata and I’m all sweaty.” Ember stated grimacing.

“Very well Ember. Shower and then meditation. I’m going to start last meal. I will let you know when it’s finished.” Melody turned and walked out into the hall. She hit the release button to close the door, leaving Ember alone in their quarters.

***** * *****

Melody stood at the galley door watching Obi-Wan start the preparations for last meal. How do I let him know how much the kiss means to me? And how do I get him to do it again? “What can I do to help you make the meal?”

“Thank you,” Obi-Wan answered, delighted that she would offer to help him. “Would you like to mix the powdered nutritional mix, or cut the fruit?”

“I’ll cut the fruit and you can mix the ‘mush’, I mean, nutritional mix,” Melody said picking up a knife that Obi-Wan had lain out on the small counter top.

“Mush.” Obi-Wan smothered a nervous laugh, “I thought only Padawans called it that.” Obi-Wan winked at her. I wonder if she is going to pretend it didn’t happen.

“That is definitely mush,” Melody smiled, as she pointed towards the package in Obi-Wan’s hands. “Although if you mention it to my Padawan I’ll deny calling it that. As a Padawan I learned that there are different kinds of mush and some are actually quite nice,” she informed him, “but this is certainly not one of them,” Melody took the package out of Obi-Wan’s hands. Staring up into his sparkling blue eyes, she leaned forward, pulled his head down, and kissed him.

Instinctively Obi-Wan’s arms wrapped around her waist. Looking into her eyes in wonder, Is this for real? Could she feel the same way I do? He gently lowered his head to hers and tentatively touched his lips to her soft pink mouth. The gentle kisses gave way as his tongue slipped between her lips to explore her sweetness. Deepening the kiss, Obi-Wan probed the recesses of her mouth and groaned at the waves of pleasure he experienced.

Melody wrapped her arms tightly around Obi-Wan’s neck, and slid her fingers through his hair. She pulled him close molding her body to his. I wonder what kind of soap that he uses, he smells so good. Her senses reeled as his kisses grew more intoxicating.

Obi-Wan pulled away first, “If I am dreaming please don’t wake me.” He uttered softly as his lips began to trace a path from across the side of her face down the side of her neck.

“You’re definitely are not dreaming,” Melody whispered, tilting her head back allowing him better access to her neck. I can’t believe this is happening. I’m going to have to do something special to thank Ember. Ember! Melody suddenly pushed Obi-Wan away from her saying, “We can’t do this.”

“Why not?” He pulled back in confusion. Wrapping her long hair around his hand, he gently pulled her back into his arms. He planted wet kisses along the base of her throat and his large hand rested in the small of her back holding her tightly against him.

“Mmmm,” Melody drew a ragged breath, almost forgetting the reason herself. Coming slowly to her senses she said, “Remember our Padawans?”

“Our Padawan’s,” he laughed huskily, “are almost adults.” Obi-Wan extended his arms holding her away from him and looking into her eyes, “If I remember correctly, our Padawans are the ones trying to get us together.”

“But what kind of example are we setting if one of them should walk in here right now?” Melody asked him. “Besides we need to finish preparing the last meal.”

Obi Wan groaned. Intellectually, he knew she was right and they had plenty of time to explore this facet of their new relationship. “Ok, but we will talk about this later,” he told her pulling her back into his embrace and kissing her forehead before turning back to the meal.

Melody beamed happily, looking forward to their promised conversation later.

***** * *****

Ember grinned knowingly at her Master and wondered whether Master Kenobi would help Lyu prepare last meal. She gathered some clean clothes and headed to the fresher to take a shower. Stripping off her soiled tunics, she turned on the water and stepped into the steaming spray. Finally a moment of peace.

Qui-Gon left his sleep quarters wondering what had happened to the beautiful girl of his fantasies. He knocked on the door to Ember’s quarters, anxious to get his apology completed before Master Obi-Wan assigned more Kata practice. He could sense that Ember was in the room, but she did not answer the door. If Master Obi-Wan believes we can work together, he is very much mistaken, he has no idea how a girl like Ember can complicate life. I will not explain to Master Obi-Wan that I didn’t apologize because she was too stubborn to answer her door. Qui-Gon palmed the door open, and marched into the room.

Ember applied the soap liberally and began washing her hair. When she was satisfied, it was clean; she stepped back under the casng wng water to rinse herself. Everyone tells a Jedi, to meditate, to purge his or her emotions. However, no one explains what to do about the constant interruptions. I’ll have to hurry or I’ll need to meditate after last meal.

“Ember, I wanted to…. Oh gods,” Qui-Gon gasped, seeing Ember as she stood naked in the shower. The water glistened on her tan skin, making her white hair stand out more brilliantly than usual. She is so beautiful, Qui-Gon thought as he quickly turned around to leave the room.

Ember, sensing that she was no longer alone, turned toward the door and saw Qui-Gon starring at her with his mouth hanging open. Hurriedly turning off the water, Ember stepped out and wrapped a towel around her body. She cautiously peeked out into the room, saw no one, and sighed in relief. He did that on purpose. How am I supposed to get along with him? He is deliberately taunting me. She hurried through her dressing, trying to release her frustration to the Force. Pulling a comb though her long wet hair, she began to braid it in a single braid down the middle of her back. Ember sank to her knees to mediate, wondering why Qui-Gon had come into her room.

Qui-Gon paced back and forth in his quarters trying desperately to understand why he walked into her room without being invited. Master is going to kill me. I wonder what was all over her back, around her waist and down her leg. He will lecture me all night about barging in on people uninvited. She has the loveliest legs I’ve ever seen. What has she done to my sense of balance? Gods, Ember will never forgive me now.

Finally, alone Ember tried to meditate on what her Master had told her. But in her mind, she kept seeing the look on Qui-Gon’s face when he walked into the room unannounced. Why did he look at me like that, I know modesty is a luxury to Jedi so why did he leave so quickly? Am I that repulsive?

Qui-Gon continued to pace back and fourth in his quarters. This is not good at all. I’ll have to apologize for seeing her in the shower too. Taking a deep calming breath, Qui-Gon slowly stepped out of his quarters and walked across the hall to the door of Ember’s quarters. With another calming breath, he hesitantly knocked on the door.

“Come in,” Ember said neutrally. I promised Lyu, I would try to get along. Although, I wonder if she would demand it, if she knew his motives.

“Um, Padawan D’on,” Qui-Gon said, glancing down at the floor, realizing that seeing at her now would only intensify images that he witnessed a few minutes ago. “I’m sorry, I- I thought you were meditating, I should not have just walked in.”

He’s stuttering. I wonder if he thinks I’m going to tell Master Kenobi and he will get in trouble again. What is wrong with me? He can’t even look at me. She was beginning to blush. Slightly grateful that he wasn’t looking at her she answered, “It’s ok, braid…I mean Qui-Gon. Mistakes are easily made.”

“Th-Thank you,” Qui-Gon stammered and walked out of toom.oom.

Ember shook her head, surprised at how easy it was to talk to him. She suddenly remembered he hadn’t told her why he interrupted her shower. Curiosity overrode common sense as she pushed the required mediation aside. She rose to her feet, threw her braid back over her right shoulder, and walked to his quarters. Stepping over the bag, she sat down on the bed next to him and cleared her throat. “I forgot to ask what you needed.”

Qui-Gon looked at her amazed that after his intrusion, she was again in his quarters sitting on his bed. He looked into her beautiful turquoise eyes, and glanced away, the image of her in the shower still fresh in his mind. “I just wanted to apologize for my behavior earlier. I had no right to disrespect you. But after the dream that, that Master….” He trailed off. Shut up Qui-Gon, she doesn’t care about your dream, even if you think it’s a potential vision of the future.

Ember smiled slightly and put her hand on his arm. “I know having terrible dreams about your Master can unsettle you, causing you to act in ways that you normally wouldn’t.” She closed her eyes to touch the Force. If he is honestly sorry then so am I, but not if he is apologizing to placate his Master. “I’m also guilty of disrespecting you. I … was being disciplined before you and your Master entered the Council Chambers so I wasn’t on my best behavior either and I’m sorry. My Master suggested we start again.” She stood up in front of him and put out her hand, “Hello I’m Ember D’on. My friends call me Emy.”

Qui-Gon looked up at her and beamed, “I am Qui-Gon Jinn,” he said taking her small hand in his large one. “We can’t fight all the time. We’d need another mission for making up.”

If the rumors are true and he is as good as they say I could go for another mission. “Well Qui-Gon Jinn you can go tell our Masters that we made up and I’ll go serve my meditation punishment. I have an hour for telling your Master to kiss mine.” Ember carefully stepped over the bag, turned, and grinned, “It’s a good thing we started over. After all, if you are right about your Master liking mine, then we’re going to be working together a lot.”

Qui-Gon eyed her retreating form speculatively. I wonder how she looks from this side without her clothes. Pleased with himselfi-Goi-Gon stood up and left the room to find his master. He walked down the corridor and entered the galley “Master Obi-Wan, oh gods…” Qui-Gon backed out of the galley, turned around and hurried back down the corridor toward his quarters. Entering Ember’s sleep chamber instead said, “Ember you don’t have to worry, our plan worked. I just walked in on them kissing. I’m going back to my quarters and I’m never coming out, because every time I do, I walk in on something.” He walked back out of the room and into his quarters.

***** * *****

Obi-Wan moved around the kitchen, making an effort to brush against her ‘accidentally.’ Once the ‘mush’ was mixed together, Obi-Wan took a small amount on his finger and offered it to Melody, watching her eyes sparkle with mirth.

Melody reached out and pulled his hand to her mouth, and ate the mush off his finger. She smiled provocatively and appeared to turn her attention back to the fruit. When Obi-Wan decides he wants something he goes after it full force …how can I get him to slow down so I can savor the moment. “I can’t believe that with all of the technological advancements that they can’t come up with food for space travel that doesn’t taste like Bantha fodder.”

“That’s because the people who came up with the food supplements aren’t the ones eating them.” Obi-Wan bent down and kissed her, drawing her bottom lip into his mouth, and sucked gently.“Obi“Obi-Wan,” Melody giggled pushing him away again. “Can’t you control yourself?”

Obi-Wan leered at her, “What’s fun about self control? If you wanted control you shouldn’t have kissed me back.”

“Fine then I won’t kiss you anymore. I’m going to go and get our padawans for last meal; do you think you can handle setting the table without me?” Melody winked at him as she started out of the room.

“Do you really think that you can keep from kissing me? I have a feeling that we’ll test that theory sometime during this trip and the sooner, the better. {Qui-Gon, thank you for leaving when you did. I’m sorry Padawan. Join us for the last meal.}

{That’s ok Master. I’m on my way.} Qui-Gon told Obi-Wan.

Ember looked up as her Master entered their shared quarters. Her Master had assigned an hour of mediation but every time she was centered, someone interrupted her. Sighing in defeat, Ember gave up trying to meditate until bedtime. She smiled at the expression her Master wore and thanks to Qui-Gon; she knew that the adults had been making out in the galley. Poor braid boy, today is just not his day.

“Ember, it’s time for last meal.” Melody said

Ember bowed her head to hide the triumphant grin. “Yes Master,” Ember rose and followed Melody down the hall to the galley. Sitting down at the table, she exchanged knowing smiles with Qui-Gon. “Master Kenobi, I’m sorry I was rude to you earlier. I have no excuse for my behavior, I knew better.”

Obi-Wan was tempted to wave off her apology. It had turned out well, so he wasn’t concerned. But knowing the Padawan needed some discipline he pursed his lips and said, “I am sure that you’ll control your actions next time and your apology is accepted.

“Master Kazala, I want to inform you both, that while you two were um… preparing dinner, Ember and I made out… I mean up, we made up,” I wish we had made out. Qui-Gon immediately corrected himself; he could already feel the blush crawling up his neck.

Ember jerked her head up and glared at Qui-Gon. Interesting comment braid boy, if I thought you meant it, I would scream about your peeping tom act while I was in the shower. Ember could feel the heat on her checks and wanted to divert the attention from herself. “So did you and Master Kenobi do anything interesting?”

“We…um… just made dinner,” Melody told her, hoping that her blush was not obvious.

Obi-Wan cleared his throat, looked at his Padawan, and debated what he should say. “We fixed dinner and caught up on old times.”

{Uhhuh Master. Didn’t you tell me that a Jedi never lies?} Ember said into the bond overlaying the comment with humor. She continued eating with the promise of making the call to the temple in the forefront of her mind. Finishing her last bite she smiled, “Master, excuse me please.”

“Yes, you may Padawan,” Melody answered, knowing thar apr apprentice was in a hurry to call her friend back at the temple.

{Old times Master, so how many times have you made out with Master Melody in the galley.} Qui-Gon commented through the bond.

Ember picked up her plate, walked to the sink, and rinsed it. She turned to see Obi-Wan watching her Master with a goofy grin on his face and then to Qui-Gon who was staring at his food. “Master Kenobi, Padawan Jinn, thank you for your company at last meal. I’m going to make my call to the Temple now Master.”

{About as often as you walk into the shower while Ember is bathing, Padawan.} Obi-Wan retorted letting him know about the up coming discussion scheduled for later.

Qui-Gon had just taken a bite of food when he received his Master’s comment through their shared bond. He began to cough, sending a piece of muja fruit sailing straight across the table at Master Melody who unfortunately sat directly in its path.

“Padawan are you Ok?” Obi-Wan asked, thumping the strangling boy on back. He looked apologetically at Melody and shrugged.

Still coughing, and trying to catch his breath, Qui-Gon managed to say, “Yes, I’m fine. I just choked… um… I’m very sorry Master Kazala. Master may…may I please be excused?”

Obi-Wan felt sorry for his Padawan and nodded, “Yes, go on Padawan. He appears highly excitable today “Perhaps some meditation is in order.”

“Thank you Master,” Qui-Gon got up and quickly rushed out of the galley. He hurried down the hall and stopped when he heard Ember talking.

***** * *****

Ember went to the communication terminal; input the connection code to the temple, and her best friend’s quarters. As she waited for the link to be established, she scanned the area to find if her companions were close enough to listen in on her conversation. Lyu, Master Kenobi, and Qui-Gon were still eating.

“Padawan Li Asa Diur. How can I help you?” The voice on the link said.

“Li, it’s me, Ember.”

“Emy?”

“Yes, Li it’s me. I’m sorry about tonight. The Council punished me and sent us on a mission to the planet Zatar with Master Kenobi and his Padawan. What did Bren think of the food levitation?”

“Um Emy, don’t get mad. He said you were just a child and you played a childish prank. He’s escorting Bella to the Senate ball.”

“He what! He told me to do it. You’re certain that he’s taking Bella to the ball?” Someone should warn her he shouldn’t be trusted. Ember asked, blinking away her tears.

“I am sorry Emy. They accepted a mission together this afternoon and he’s taking her to the tournament next week,” her friend answered.

“I can’t go to the tournament. I’m on probation.” Ember replied softly.

“No Emy! You have to go to the tournament. As the junior Padawan champion for the last four years, you have to participate. This is your first time as a senior Padawan.”

“I know.” Ember said quietly.

Qui-Gon quickly rushed into his quarters so that he would not have to add eavesdropping to his list of mistakes for today. I hope she’ll be ok. Maybe I could ask her to go to the ball with me and she will say yes.

Ember scrubbed her eyes to get rid of the tears that welled up in her lovely eyes. All the events of the day weighed heavily on her shoulders. She turned, caught Qui-Gon leaving the doorway, and knew he had overheard her conversation. She stood up, walked out of her room, and stood in the door waiting for Qui-Gon to invite her in.

***** * *****

Obi Wan sat at the table and grinned at Melody, “Alone at last.”

“So what was that about?” Melody asked, as she cleared the dishes from the table.

“That was just something between Qui-Gon and I concerning his training.” Obi-Wan replied evasively. We’re having enough problems with them getting along. I don’t need Melody upset about the shower.

“Oh, that was an interesting training method,” Melody commented.

“Well we do what we can when it comes to training. Now let’s talk about something more enjoyable.” Obi-Wan said grinning.

“Yes, let’s talk about dishes. Do you want to wash or dry?” Melody replied mischievously.

Obi-Wan groaned, stood up, and walked over to stand behind her. She knows exactly what I mean, but now she is playing hard to get. He moved her hair out of the way and kissed her neck. “That’s why we have Padawan learners. They get to do all the chores we’re to busy to do.” Obi-Wan enlightened her.

“You sent your Padawan to meditate,” Melody reminded him, pulling away.

He pulled her back against his chest and nuzzled her neck again. “Then let Qui-Gon do it when he gets done. We need to talk about why it took us so long to get to know each other better.”

"Really? Then why do I have the feeling that talking is the furthest thing from your mind?" Melody purred tilting her head back as a whisper of his bearded lips brushed against the throbbing vein in her neck.

A deep chuckle rumbled in his chest. Within moments, he nimbly undid the leather belt that held the skirt on her narrow waist. He slid his hands up her ribs under the silky cloth of her shirt and slipped the garment off over her head, using it to pull her closer. He nipped at her bare shoulder. Obi-Wan turned Melody to face him as he nuzzled her neck and hair. His thumbs teased her breasts though the thin material of her bra. Pressing a gentle kiss in the valley between the plump mounds, Obi-Wan raised his head and looked into her eyes. “My Master always said I got high marks in persuasion. Seeing that it wasn’t hard to convince you that talking is overrated, I guess he was right.

"Obi-Wan, don't you think we should go somewhere else? Someplace with a door maybe?" Melody said closing her eyes as his soft lips brushed gently against her bare skin, sending chills down her spine.

His lips curved into a smile against her shoulder. “I thinu’reu’re right.” He reached out, gathered the Force around him, looked for his Padawan’s signature, and found it along with Ember’s in the sleeping quarters that he was sharing with Qui-Gon. He kissed each hand before he placed them around his neck and picked her up under the arms. Melody instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist as he picked her up to carry her down the hall, his lips never leaving hers.

***** * *****

Oh great we just made peace and now she’s going to come over here and yell at me about invading her privacy. Talk about impressing the girl of your dreams …if I keep going this way I’m going to impress her into running away from me. Qui-Gon took a deep breath and turned to the door where he saw Ember standing. “Hi,” he smiled hesitantly.

“You heard?” Ember said flatly.

“I didn’t mean to listen in on your conversation. I heard you talking and at first I wasn’t sure if you were speaking to me or not,” Qui-Gon sighed, wondering how he kept getting into these situations.

“May I come in? I would like some company, someone that I could talk to right now, and my Master is busy with yours.” Ember said tentatively.

“Of course,” Qui-Gon told her, “Are you alright?”

Ember could feel tears gathering in the corners of her eyes and shook her head no. She walked over and sat on the end of the bed next to Qui-Gon. “I was the Jr. Champion for the last four years. As part of my punishment Master Ki-Adi-Mundi said, “I’m not permitted to compete this year.”

"I'm sorry. I heard about the food levitation, and I thought it was very funny, if that helps any," Qui-Gon tried to console her.

Ember reclined on her elbow watching Qui-Gon, and smiled wanly, “Thanks.” Why is he so nice now? I understand what starting over means, but it’s as if he’s a completely different person. She rolled over on her back and looked at the ceiling, wondering what he was thinking.”

Here she is, lying on my bed again, and I still can’t do anything about it. Qui-Gon thought, looking down at her. "Um, personally, I don't like Bren very much. I think he’s delusional for wasting his opportunity to go to the ball with you."

How did we get on the topic of Bren … I was upset about losing the chance to compete in the tournament. “Thank you Qui-Gon. I don’t know why that makes me feel better but it does. Who are you going to the ball with...?” Ember put her hand over her mouth. “Oh I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to get personal.”

“Actually, I wasn't planning on going," Qui-Gon ran a hand through the short padawan hairstyle suddenly feeling nervous. "I don't mind if you ask me personal questions, after what happened earlier, you have every right."

Is he still upset over walking in on me in the shower? You’d think he’d never seen a female without her clothes. I wonder if his hair is as soft as it looks. “You weren’t?” Ember said surprised. She studied the other Padawan a moa moment and realized that his eyes were captivating. Even his broken nose doesn’t detract from his looks. Ember, you’re losing it girl. …What are you thinking? “There isn’t a Padawan or Knight in the Temple that isn’t dying for a chance to go out with the legendary Qui-Gon Jinn. You can have your pick of anyone at the Temple.”

Not anyone; not the one I want. She didn’t even know I existed, until now. Qui-Gon thought shifting uncomfortably.

Hearing a noise and feeling the increased shielding from hasteaster, Ember sat up and leaned over Qui-Gon, to catch a glimpse of her undressed Master being carried into her sleep chambers. Using one arm to steady herself, she softly touched Qui-Gon’s leg to get his attention and pointed to the now sealed door. “I guess you and I will share a room tonight Qui-Gon.”

"W-what?" Qui-Gon asked. Wait a minute, now I know she didn’t just say that. She’s sitting on my bed, with her hand on my leg, and I thought she said that we would share a room. Does that also mean we share the bed? Qui-Gon thought.

“You don’t snore do you? I’m going to have enough trouble sleeping in my clothes.” Ember turned to look at Qui-Gon, her elbow buckled, and she caught herself before she landed on him again. That’s it; I need to figure out what he does to my balance. “Ok Qui-Gon, spill it, what did you do to me?”

"To you?" Qui-Gon asked indignantly. "You came into my room, sat on my bed, put your hand on my leg, intimating that we’ll share more than a room, and then! … You have the audacity to ask what I'm doing to you."

“Oh,” Ember jumped to her feet. “I’m so sorry that I disturbed you. I only meant that since I met you something has happened to my balance.” As for sharing your room, I thought you wouldn’t mind letting me use your Master’s bed, but obviously the fact that I don’t have any where to sleep doesn’t bother you.” She turned around and ran out of the room toward the flight cabin, scrubbing the tears out of her eyes.

I did it again… Why do we always take what each other says the wrong way? "Gods," Qui-Gon muttered, and started to follow her. When he reached the flight cabin he said, "Ember, I'm sorry. You weren't bothering me, I just wasn't aware that we’d have to share a room. The way you were leaning over me with your hand on my leg, when you told me we were sleeping together, I thought you... um… meant something else.

Understanding dawned on Ember’s tear stained face, “You thought I was…. asking to have sex with you. If that was my goal, then I can promise you Qui-Gon Jinn, you wouldn’t get much sleep. I would keep you too busy. I enjoy physical intimacy much too much to limit myself to once a night.”

"Gods you’re unbelievable. I thought I heard you wrong. That’s why I needed to clarify what you said," Qui-Gon told her. His frustration got the better of him; he turned, and walked out of the room, heading for the cargo hold.

Ember sat in the pilot’s chair trying to get comfortable for the long night ahead. Great Ember, you just drove off a possible friend. You just couldn’t shut your mouth. You’ll never be a Jedi …they think before speaking. She put her feet up in the co-pilot’s seat and crossed her arms over her chest, trying to keep out the cold, having neither a blanket nor a cloak. She wiped the steady steam of fresh tears off her face and cried herself to sleep.

TBC