Obi-Wan jumped off his swoop gratefully. His legs felt stiff. The air was cold, and he moved quickly to warm his muscles.

They climbed the hill silently. Their footing had to be assured, for if they slipped, they could cause a small rock slide that would alert Balog of their presence.

They neared the top of the hill and Qui-Gon dropped to his hands and knees. Obi-Wan did the same. He slithered up to the top and peered over.

All he saw was an empty plain. There was no sign of Balog, even in the distance. He must have left long ago.

Qui-Gon dropped his head into his hands. He did not speak for a moment. Obi-Wan was disappointed, but he could see that his Master was distraught.

Obi-Wan was tired and hungry and cold. There was nothing he would like better right now than to set up the condenser unit for warmth, eat some rations, and settle on the ground for a good sleep of at least a few hours.

Instead, he put his hand on Qui-Gon's shoulder. He spoke softly.

"Let's keep going."

"Yes," Qui-Gon said, his expression fierce. "Let's move on."

Chapter 5

Before the morning had passed, the probe droid returned with new coordinates. Balog was traveling quickly, with barely any stops. Obi-Wan could see Qui-Gon's frustration harden into cold resolve. He would not rest until they caught up with Balog. He would drive his body to the limit.

The temperature rose, and the combined power of the blazing suns bore down on Obi-Wan. He took a swallow of water from his rations. He felt light-headed from the heat and lack of sleep.

"Do you think Balog doesn't stop because he knows we're behind him?"

he asked Qui-Gon.

"Or he has a destination in mind and knows he will be safe there,"