Crystallize, by Torch (PG)

[penelope-z.livejournal.com]

Fandom: STAR WARS PT
Pairing: Qui-Gon/Obi-Wan UST
Author on LJ: flambeau
Author Website: the flambeau factory
Why this must be read:

"Crystallize" is a quiet interlude in the lives of Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan before TPM, set during a peaceful mission on the planet Remis, as they take turns guarding the hibernating people of the planet. Torch has created a fascinating world in stasis, frozen and serene, and so real you can almost see the blue-white snow blanketing the landscape and hear it crunch under their feet.

This cocoon world suits the introspective mood of the story, as Qui-Gon gradually becomes aware of the shift in his perceptions and feelings for his student, quietly and without fanfare, until the realisation is complete, just as the pieces of his dar puzzle finally fall into place.

As the entire story is told from Qui-Gon's limited point of view, Obi-Wan's own motivations and desires are hinted, but not entirely clear. As the reader I wondered if I could see more that Qui-Gon did or not, but far from being jarring, the effect creates a pleasant sense of unhurried ambiguity. Simple story, simple presentation, and yet underneath it layers upon layers of intelligence and feeling.

Crystallize