"Solan is well known on his planet, widely feared and respected. He gets what he needs through threats, violence, and influence."

Now that Jocasta was through imparting information, she was prepared to answer Qui-Gon's question.

"It is not unusual for murders to go uninvestigated on Frego. But it is unusual for a favored member of the Cobral family to be killed, particularly without vengeance."

Though Qui-Gon's expression did not change, he felt a fresh wave of grief wash through him. He longed more than ever for Tahl — for her cynicism, her quick mind, and her habit of dispensing information in a way that naturally led Qui-Gon's thoughts in the proper direction.

Qui-Gon reminded himself that theirs was a relationship that had taken years to develop. And that the connection he had with Tahl was one he would never have with the Temple archivist. Or anyone else, probably.

"Lena married into the Cobral family three years ago," Jocasta went on. "There was a rumor that Rutin no longer wanted to be involved in his family's dealings. Although he could not easily divorce himself from the crime business, Senator Crote has told us that Rutin was prepared to testify before the Senate against his family. He wanted to put an end to the crime ring altogether. Not long after Rutin agreed to testify, he was killed." Jocasta took a breath, but did not allow more than a second to pass before going on.

"Last night we received a secret communication from Lena. Senator Crote did as well. She has decided to take up her husband's cause and testify against the Cobral herself." Jocasta pushed several documents on a datapad across the table toward the Jedi. "Everything you need is here."

Qui-Gon stood and took the datapad. "Thank you," he said curtly. "We may be contacting you if we need further assistance."

"Of course," Jocasta nodded. "May the Force be with you."

Qui-Gon nodded blankly in return. How could he trust that the Force would be with him? Where had it been when he'd needed it the most? He and Tahl had pledged their love for each other. But nothing — not that love, not the Jedi, not the Force — had been able to save her.

It did not take long for Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan to gather supplies for the short journey. Soon they were stepping onto the freighter that would take them to Frego.

Distracted and exhausted, Qui-Gon was anxious to retire to his quarters as soon as they were on board. He was about to say as much to Obi- Wan when his Padawan spoke.

"Master, I know that these last few months have been hard on you."

Obi-Wan reached out a hand toward Qui-Gon's shoulder but let it drop, barely brushing his Master's brown sleeve. "And I… well, I can't help remembering what you told me when Bant was missing in the Temple. You said that the darkest time is the time when it is most important that you follow the Jedi Code. If you let your emotions fl — "

"Thank you, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon cut him off. "You have learned well what I've taught you. One day you will make a fine Jedi Master." He turned and made his way quickly toward his quarters. He could sense the boy behind him, standing, bewildered.

Qui-Gon knew his apprentice was only trying to make him feel better.

But he could not bear to listen to the wisdom that was now failing him. He simply wanted to be alone.

Chapter 2

Obi-Wan stood silently, watching the planet Frego grow larger on the freighter's view-screen. Qui-Gon had not emerged from his quarters during the journey. Obi-Wan was not sure if he should disturb him, even now that they were drawing close to their destination. He desperately wanted to give Qui-Gon the same comfort his Master had given him so many times. But the more he tried, the further Qui-Gon retreated. The gulf between them seemed to be growing wider, and Obi-Wan was at a loss. How could he span the distance alone?

"That must be Frego."

Qui-Gon's voice surprised Obi-Wan and filled him with relief. He would not have to disturb his Master's solitude after all.

"And that glowing spot must be the capitol city of Rian," Qui-Gon continued.

Obi-Wan could tell that Qui-Gon was still sad and distracted. It was almost like standing beside a ghost. But at least he was speaking. He was making an effort.

As they exited the craft, Obi-Wan felt on edge. It was up to him to focus on this mission. He could not depend on his Master in his emotionally wounded state.

Obi-Wan did not think the Cobral family had been alerted to their arrival, but a planet ruled by criminals was always a dangerous place. He half expected to see dark dealings and black market bargains right in the freighter hangar, but there was only one person present as the Jedi disembarked — and she looked at them without interest. Obi-Wan relaxed a little, until the freighter captain slid down the ramp toward him.

"I'll be taking off as soon as possible, if that's okay," he said nervously. "I don't want to spend any more time here than is absolutely necessary, with the Cobral airways tax and all."

Obi-Wan nodded. Though he did not know exactly what the pilot was referring to, he could tell it was not pleasant, and most likely not legal.

He thanked the captain for their safe passage and watched him slip back inside his craft.

As soon as the ship's door shut, the lone woman in the hangar approached the Jedi.

"I trust you had a pleasant journey from…" she paused.

"Coruscant," Obi-Wan finished for her. "Are you Lena?"

"No," the woman said, lowering her hood to reveal closely cut hair and a youthful face. "I am Mica, but I will take you to Lena now." Mica glanced around the hangar once more.

She's nervous, Obi-Wan thought. He drew a deep breath and concentrated on the Force. But he did not sense danger, only Mica's fear.

"Follow behind me, but not too close. If I am approached I will pretend not to know you." Mica's eyes were large and dark and she turned them on Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan in turn, waiting for each to nod in agreement.

"We will do as you ask," Obi-Wan assured her.

Raising her hood, Mica started out of the hangar at a brisk pace.

Obi-Wan enjoyed being introduced to a new planet on foot. Qui-Gon had taught him that the slower pace was best for observation, and there was much to observe in Rian. None of it was what Obi-Wan had expected.

The streets were clean; the footpaths were filled with Fregans carrying colorful bundles and walking unhurriedly together. Just a short distance from the municipal hangar, stalls lined the paths. Food vendors sold heaps of fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, and grains, shouting out prices and greeting regulars. Farther into the open market more vendors sold household goods and even crafts. Everywhere people seemed happy and relaxed.