Part 2
"How are you tonight Jaina?"
Jaina had just settled into a chair with Ben, who still slumbered, when a shadow fell over her. She recognized the Force essence of the Jedi who stood before, and felt no fear, although she could not quite repress the slight shiver of alarm that slashed through her, as her brown eyes locked on the bold black and red features of the Dathomirian Zabrak she knew has Jedi Goshyn Maul.
Even though they had known each other for several years, having trained at the Jedi Academy on Yavin 4, and in recent months been on a couple of the same battle missions against the Yuuzhan Vong, this was the first time Goshyn had ever sought her out.
Or anyone out for that matter. Goshyn kept to himself mostly, more than aware that his lineage as a direct descendant of Darth Maul, one of the most notorious Siths in the entire galaxy, made most people very uneasy around him. Even his fellow Jedis were wary of him, despite the fact his actions so far, were as honorable as theirs was.
Being directly descended from Darth Vader, the most feared Sith of all time, Jaina understood what it felt like to be prejudged by others. Starting with her mother and uncle, the Skywalker-Solo family had done much to change the way others saw their lineage, but for some, nothing they did would ever be good enough.
Her Uncle Luke, along with her parents, had taught her and her brothers that it did not matter how others perceived them, but how they saw themselves. Only their actions and thoughts could dictate the kind of person they wished to be. She was thankful that she had wonderful role models in her parents, aunt and uncle; mentors in the other Jedi Masters, and close friends to rely on for advice and support.
Jaina wondered if Goshyn had anyone close to confide in. She opted then and there, to try and make more of an effort to befriend Goshyn.
"I am fine." She smiled at him. "Enjoying the brief respite from the fighting."
" I wish I shared your enjoyment." Goshyn seated himself in the chair next to hers." I do not agree with this frivolity, while the galaxy around us is in such chaos."
"You are entitled to your own opinion." Jaina said evenly. "However, I agree with Master Skywalker, when he stated that we must remember to take moments such as this. We are all battle weary and grieve for fallen loved ones and friends. Rejuvenating our bodies and spirits will enable us to return to battle with more focus and determination."
"Your words have weight to them." Goshyn stated solemnly. "I will meditate on them."
"As you like." Jaina glanced down as Ben began to squirm about in her arms, and make low mewling sounds. A clear sign that he was building up to a fit. She made a mental connection with him and found hunger was prevalent in his mind.
"If you'll excuse me. I need to take Ben to his mother." Jaina rose from her chair, Ben's cries becoming a little louder and more frequent.
"I will await your return." Goshyn said.
"Alright."