Chapter Fifteen
Obi-Wan

Anakin and I are accompanied by Mira and Padmé, both radiant in their beautiful dresses, perfectly suited for the evening's dinner. Mira's hair is elegantly braided and swept up into a high bun, enhancing her stunning features. I find myself stealing glances at her, captivated by her beauty, and it seems Anakin does the same. Padmé occasionally catches my eye, a knowing smile dancing on her lips, as if she understands the unspoken admiration that both Anakin and I feel for the queen. Her presence only adds to the enchanting atmosphere of the night.

"So, how is the training going so far?" Mira asks, her voice soft yet commanding, the playful glint in her blue eyes captivating Anakin, who is instantly put on the spot. A faint blush creeps across his cheeks, contrasting beautifully with the deep hue of his tunic.

"Just fine, my queen," he stammers, his gaze dropping to the floor, clearly flustered by her attention. In response, I can't help but nudge him playfully with my elbow, and he lets out a surprised yelp, shooting me a glare that's half annoyance and half amusement.

Mira, delighting in our banter, flashes a warm smile, exchanging a quick, knowing look with Padmé, who watches the scene unfold with an affectionate smile of her own. "Well, that is good to hear," Padmé chimes in, her voice lilting like music, the gentle grace in her words enhancing the already enchanting atmosphere of the evening. The light dances off the jewels in their dresses, adding a shimmering glow that reflects the warmth of the camaraderie around us.

Mira then leans forward, a playful curiosity lighting up her expression as she extends her fingers delicately toward me, as if drawing me into her confidence. "Are you doing well as a Jedi Knight too, Obi-Wan?" she asks, her voice a harmonious blend of concern and encouragement, each syllable laced with sincerity. The soft flicker of candlelight dances in her blue eyes, making them sparkle with an almost ethereal quality. Her interest is palpable, reminding me of the bond we share amid the challenges we face. The atmosphere around us feels charged with warmth and camaraderie, making it easy to respond to her gentle inquiry.

I nod slowly, a smile touching my lips as I reflect on the past. "Yeah, thanks to Qui-Gon, I can train Anakin the way he trained me," I reply, the warmth of gratitude enveloping my words. The mention of my old master brings a soft glow to my expression, a tender reminiscence of his wisdom and guidance. Qui-Gon's unwavering presence seems to linger in the air around us, a comforting reminder that even though he may not be physically here, his teachings continue to resonate deeply within me. I look around, scanning the bustling environment for any sign of him, filled with a sense of connection to my past while being grounded in the present.

Pdm then reaches out, gently clasping her hands in a gesture of camaraderie. "Well, I think we all could use some wine after that, don't you?" she proposes, her eyes sparkling with mischief and excitement. "Afterward, how about Mira and I take you on a moon stroll? The moonlight here is just perfect."

Her voice carries a sense of adventure, and I can almost picture it: the soft glow of the moon casting silvery rays over everything, illuminating the path ahead as we walk together. The idea ignites a warm feeling within me, a welcome respite from the weight of our responsibilities. The prospect of sharing laughter and quiet moments beneath the stars feels like a fleeting escape—an opportunity to connect not just with the Force, but with each other.

I nod to Padmé, who smiles warmly before standing up, leaving me alone with Anakin and Mira in the beautifully decorated hall. Anakin leans over, taking the Queen's hand in his own, causing her to give him a bemused look, eyebrows raised in surprise.

"You look even more radiant than usual, my Queen," Anakin says, his gaze lingering as he bites his lip. I roll my eyes, sensing his excitement in the Force. Oh brother, I think to myself, trying to suppress a sigh as I navigate the tension in the air.

 Mira chuckles softly, squeezing Anakin's hands playfully. "Why, thank you, little one," she says, looking up at him with a twinkle in her eye, her smile infectious and warm.

Anakin's face darkened slightly as he hissed, "I'm not that little anymore." I shot him an amused look, clearly aware of his desire to be seen as an adult in Mira's eyes. His posture shifted, a mix of defiance and vulnerability, as if he needed her to recognize the man he was becoming, rather than the boy he once was.

Mira shared a knowing glance with me, her blue eyes sparkling with understanding. She leaned back slightly, a playful smile on her lips. "I know," she said softly, before taking a delicate sip of her wine. Just then, Padmé rejoined us, her arms cradling a full jug, ready to replenish our glasses. The atmosphere shifted slightly, the light banter momentarily paused as we welcomed her back to our gathering.

Anakin huffed, the sound escaping his lips like a small storm brewing beneath the surface. He crossed his arms tightly over his chest, a gesture that seemed to echo both defiance and an unwillingness to budge from his position. His dark hair fell slightly into his eyes, casting a shadow over his expression, yet I could see the mixture of determination and frustration softening his features, as if he were wrestling with the very concept of growing up.

I had to concede, in this moment, that he could, on occasion, exhibit a decidedly childish demeanor. There was a slight pout forming on his lips, almost comical in the seriousness with which he wore it. His brows furrowed, and I could sense the inner turmoil that accompanied his attempt to be perceived as mature. Despite his impressive skills and the weight of responsibility that often rested on his young shoulders, there was an undeniable innocence that lingered, manifesting in the way he shifted his weight from one foot to the other, the restless energy bubbling beneath his exterior.

The dim light of the room highlighted the contours of his face, casting gentle shadows that emphasized the boyish charm still very much part of him, even in this moment of asserting his adulthood. I couldn't help but feel a pang of affection mixed with amusement. Anakin was navigating a complex world—the burdens of expectations, the yearning for growth, and the echo of his childhood still resonating within him. It made this fleeting struggle to be taken seriously all the more poignant.

Padmé looked between us, her brow raised in a mix of amusement and curiosity, the corners of her mouth lifting into a playful smile. "Did I miss something?" she asked, glancing at Queen Mira, who shook her head gently, her expression reassuring.

"No, sister, you didn't," Mira replied, her voice warm and melodic. Her eyes sparkled with mischief as if they held a private joke that Padmé had yet to uncover.

Anakin uncrossed his arms, a hint of a grin emerging as he straightened up, momentarily abandoning his feigned stubbornness. The tension that hung in the air lightened, transforming into an inviting atmosphere filled with camaraderie.

Padmé stepped closer, her gaze dancing from Anakin to me, and then back to Mira, clearly intrigued by whatever dynamic was unfolding. The flickering candlelight cast a soft glow on her features, accentuating the warmth in her expression as she took in the scene before her.

"Oh, come on, you're all acting so mysterious," she teased, leaning in slightly, as if she were trying to catch whispers of our unspoken exchanges. "I want in on whatever this is."

Mira chuckled softly, her laughter a soothing balm over the slight tension that had been brewing moments before. "Believe me, it's nothing scandalous. Just Anakin grappling with his inner child, as usual."

Anakin groaned good-naturedly, rolling his eyes but unable to suppress a smile, the atmosphere buzzing with the vibrant energy of friendship, warmth, and unspoken stories shared in the spaces between words.

The door creaked open, and a guard stepped in, his entrance commanding immediate attention. He was striking, with sun-kissed golden hair swept back neatly, and deep brown eyes that held a confidence and clarity that spoke volumes. There was something undeniably captivating about his presence, exuding a quiet strength that didn't go unnoticed.

Mira turned her gaze toward him, her curiosity piqued. The guard caught her eye and bowed slightly before addressing her, the formality of his tone contrasting with the casual warmth that had just permeated the room. "Your Highness, there's someone here to see you," he said firmly but respectfully.

Mira promptly dipped her head, her demeanor shifting as she realized she was needed elsewhere. There was a sparkle of intrigue in her eyes, igniting a blend of excitement and duty. She pushed herself away from the table gracefully as the guard stepped back slightly to allow her room, and in one fluid motion, she stood up, her dress flowing like a gentle wave of fabric around her.

"Excuse me, everyone," she said, glancing back at us with a slight smile that hinted at the mystery awaiting her. With a nod, she followed the guard out of the room, their footsteps echoing softly in the corridor beyond, leaving us in a momentary silence—curiosity swirling in the air.

Anakin leaned back in his chair, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. "I wonder who could possibly have caught the Queen's attention so swiftly," he mused, looking between Padmé and me, his eyes alight with mischief. "Do you think it's a secret admirer?"

Padmé rolled her eyes playfully. "We can only hope that it's someone worthy of her," she replied, her tone light but hinting at the serious side of finding a balance between duty and personal happiness. I could see the playfulness in her demeanor as well, though; she too was curious about the unfolding events.

As we sat in the lingering silence, a mix of anticipation and speculation filled the room, each of us pondering the implications of the Queen's new visitor.

Sooner or later, the door swung open again, and Queen Mira returned, this time accompanied by a striking figure clad in silver armor—a Mandalorian. Instinctively, I sat up straighter, and Anakin and Padmé followed suit, our senses heightened. The presence of this armored man shifted the atmosphere in the room, a subtle tension filled with intrigue and anticipation.

"Guys, this is Jango Fett," Mira announced, gesturing to him with a mix of formality and familiarity. The way she spoke his name carried an air of confidence that hinted at her trust in him. "He has been requesting to be my bodyguard."

We exchanged glances, each of us processing the sudden rise in stakes. Jango Fett stood tall and composed, his silver armor glinting under the soft light in the room, revealing an impressive figure who commanded respect. There was a sense of danger mixed with professionalism that emanated from him, a silent confidence that spoke of countless missions and experiences that went beyond just combat.

Mira tilted her head slightly, giving Jango an amused look. "As if I need one, but I accept and let him stay here in the palace," she continued, a playful sparkle in her eye. There was a lightheartedness to her tone, yet an obvious acknowledgment of the serious responsibility she bore as a leader.

Anakin furrowed his brow slightly, glancing between the Queen and the Mandalorian. "You think it's wise to have a bounty hunter as your bodyguard?" he asked, a hint of skepticism in his voice, though his curiosity was evident.

Jango shifted slightly, his visor reflecting the light as he looked directly at Anakin. "Not just any bounty hunter," he replied coolly, his voice steady and assured. "I'm a warrior, trained for protection as much as for combat. Your Highness deserves the best."

Mira nodded, her expression thoughtful. "I admire your confidence, Jango. And in this increasingly volatile atmosphere, having someone with your skills could prove invaluable."

Padmé leaned slightly forward, intrigue dancing in her eyes. "What do you think of Mandalorian custom, Jango? Does it align with your view of duty and service?"

The corner of Jango's mouth turned upward just slightly, an acknowledgment of the question's complexity. "Mandalorian custom is one of honor and loyalty," he replied. "I take my duties seriously, and protecting you, Your Highness, would be no different."

The vibrant conversation that ensued began to unravel the layers of who Jango Fett was—not just a hunter, but perhaps an ally in unforeseen ways. All the while, Mira stood confidently, surrounded by the camaraderie of her friends, knowing her choices would always steer her towards the path of justice and safety for her people.

As evening fell, the soft glow of candlelight flickered throughout the room, casting a warm ambiance that enveloped us. I gathered my robe, adjusting it with a deliberate motion, and turned to Queen Mira. "It was a great honor to see you again, Mira dear," I said, a heartfelt smile gracing my face.

Her eyes sparkled as she returned my smile, the warmth evident in her expression. "And it was great to see you too, Obi-Wan," she replied genuinely, her voice carrying the familiar melody of our friendship.

Mira then turned to Anakin, and the atmosphere shifted slightly with her playful approach. She gently grasped his cheeks, tilting his face to meet her gaze. "You too, love," she said, her tone teasing yet affectionate.

Anakin's initial surprise morphed into a sheepish grin, his cheeks reddening beneath her playful touch. "Uh... thanks, Your Highness," he stammered, trying to maintain some semblance of composure, but the lighthearted banter only deepened the bond between the three of us.

"Don't be too shy, Anakin. It's good to feel appreciated," I added, chuckling lightly at the scene unfolding before me.

Mira released his cheeks, her laughter mingling with ours, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie that felt both refreshing and grounding. "I appreciate you both for different reasons," she said, glancing between us. "Your support means the world to me, especially with everything that's happening."

Anakin's demeanor shifted, becoming more serious as he nodded in understanding. "We'll always be here for you, Mira," he vowed, determination shining in his deep blue eyes.

I stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Together, we will navigate whatever challenges lie ahead," I added, echoing Anakin's sentiment.

Mira glanced at us both, a mix of gratitude and resolve in her expression. "I know I can always count on you," she said softly, her voice carrying the weight of their shared responsibility.

As Anakin and I left, the cool evening air wrapped around us, carrying the distant sounds of diplomacy and life in the city. My mind wandered back to the conversation we had with Mira, her laughter still echoing in my ears, when Anakin glanced at me, an inquisitive look in his eyes.

"You like her," he said, an unmistakable smirk pulling at the corners of his mouth, hinting at his mischievous nature.

I turned to him, surprised by his bold assertion. "What?" I replied, trying to sound nonchalant while my heart quickened.

"Mira," he prompted again, clearly not letting this moment pass. "You like her."

I met his gaze, seeing the playful challenge within it. "Anakin, she's the Queen of Lothal. It's not as simple as liking someone," I replied, attempting to deflect the conversation. But deep down, I knew he had struck a chord. There was an undeniable admiration I held for her, a connection that was more than mere friendship.

Anakin's grin widened, clearly enjoying the moment. "C'mon, Obi-Wan. You can't hide it. The way you look at her... it's different," he insisted. "You've got that old Jedi calmness, but with Mira, you seem... well, almost human."

I chuckled lightly, feigning exasperation but feeling a warmth wash over me. "It's not about that, Anakin. We are Jedi, and there are rules about attachment for a reason."

"Rules that can sometimes feel a bit outdated," he countered, his tone earnest. "You two have a connection. It's okay to acknowledge that."

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Perhaps, but duty comes first. She has her responsibilities as a queen, and I have mine as a Jedi. It complicates things."

"Maybe, but that doesn't mean you can't feel something. Even Jedi are allowed to care for others."

As we walked, I pondered his words. Anakin, with his youthful enthusiasm and often reckless passion, saw the world through a lens filled with possibilities. I appreciated his perspective, even if I remained cautious about the paths we tread as guardians of peace.

"Just... keep that in mind, Obi-Wan," Anakin added, his tone shifting to one of sincerity. "You deserve to be happy too."

A smile crept onto my face at his concern for me. "Thank you, Anakin. I'll consider your advice. But for now, let us focus on our duties and leaving the temple behind."

"Right," he replied, a hint of mischief still in his voice. "But I'll be keeping an eye on you and Mira, just so you know."

"Of course you will," I said, shaking my head with amusement as we continued onward, our camaraderie strengthening with each step we took into the unfolding night.