Chapter Text
Obi-Wan knew before the Jedi Master even opened his mouth that his words would disappoint him.
- I'm not going to be able to take you as my Padawan, as you know, I already have one.
Obi-Wan glanced quickly at Padawan Antilles, a human about his age but probably younger and very shy under his hood, and who had done much to make Master Windu likeable to the Young by the total trust he had in the adult than the Master could have won alone. Here the children did not trust the adults with such serenity for their protection and disinterested affection. Even when young, children knew where the danger lay.
- "I know, Master Windu," the boy admitted, swallowing hard. "I fought in a civil war, I don't deserve to be a Jedi."
- "This is not a trial of your mistakes," the Jedi corrected firmly. "You've made mistakes and that's okay, you're a young Padawan, no sensible Jedi would expect you to be capable of adult reasoning by now. Let us be clear, Jedi have fought wars far bloodier than this one, and your willingness to help those who were weak and helpless is honorable. You still have a place among us, if the disappointment and betrayal is not too much for you.
Obi-Wan blinked slowly, unsure of what he was hearing before glancing over to Niel and Cerasi who were waiting further down the road - for protection and moral support, though they couldn't tell the Jedi that.
- But... I betrayed the Order, I betrayed my vows and my duty.
- You wanted to protect the innocent and the peace by ending an unjust and despicable war, you did not betray the Jedi.
- So... Master Qui-Gon will take me back as a Padawan?
Master Windu grunted and Padawan Antilles looked up at him and Obi-Wan got a brief glimpse of his counterpart's face up to his nose as he was still under his hood. He really did look younger than him now that he thought about it, about 8 years old... it was really young, but only an extraordinary Initiate would be taken in by someone as incredible as Master Windu.
- No. It was your Master's duty to protect you, he failed, so he will not take you as a Padawan again. He will not take any Padawan without an internal investigation, this kind of treatment is unacceptable, we are not supposed to abandon people in need for a fellow Jedi. I have someone in mind for you, and that person has already agreed to take you.
The redhead felt his eyes widen. Someone... someone wanted him? 'Him?'
- I'm not sure I'm worthy.
- "You are worthy," the Master and Padawan replied together before exchanging a smile.
- "It's about justice and logic," the Padawan pointed out wisely, with a small, hesitant, encouraging smile. "It is kindness and compassion, and every being is worthy of it. We are all children of the Force, we are one family."
- "And family takes care of its members," Master Windu concluded. "Come, let's go home."
Obi-Wan didn't know if it was him, the two Jedi, or the Force, but he took the outstretched hand, knowing he wouldn't regret it.
*
- Oh.
- Obi-Wan Kenobi, this is Master Plo Koon, you probably remember him.
Of course he did, he could never forget the Padawan of a High Councilor like Master Tyvokka, let alone when he was a friend of his Master!
- Yes, of course.
- Obi-Wan, sorry, I mean, Padawan Kenobi. I hope you are well.
- I'm fine, Master Koon, thank you.
- "He's not fine at all," sighed Master Windu. "A lot of physical trauma and I'm not even talking about the mental trauma, this will require a lot of care and attention on a daily basis."
Obi-Wan didn't understand why Master Windu was trying to sabotage his chances before he could even speak, but Master Koon nodded seriously before turning to him.
- I am aware of this, and I am prepared to assume the role of protector and caretaker for as long as it is necessary. Padawan Kenobi, I am sincere in my desire to train you. I assure you that my commitment to you, to us, will be total and that I will do my best not to fail you.
- "I don't want to disappoint you either," Obi-Wan admitted shyly, for this Master was truly impressive.
The young Kel Dor chuckled and knelt down, carefully holding out a hand towards him.
- Padawan Kenobi, will you do me the honor of becoming my Padawan?
Obi-Wan felt tears rolling down his cheeks, but none of his peers around him made any comment, and Padawan Antilles simply leaned closer to his Master, who placed a comforting hand on his shoulder to pull him closer. The kind of easy affection and support he had always craved.
- I accept, Master Koon.