The snow crunched beneath my boots as I dismounted from the Tauntaun. The hut of the "Snow Witch", as she was known to the local population, was half-covered by the recent blizzard. Whisps of smoke poured from an invisible chimney in the roof.
I was tired after our trip and I did not look forward to dealing with a sweaty, unwashed old woman and her senile ramblings. But it was not my choice to make. Anakin's obvious impatience with the situation did give me some small satisfaction, though.
I knocked once on the door and, hearing an answer, pushed my way into the hovel. She was sitting with her back to the fire, dressed in loose fur pelts. It was true her hair was unwashed, but apart from that the Snow Witch departed pleasantly from my expectations.
I felt Anakin's gaze search her dress for the many holes that revealed a youthful golden skin. Her body looked warm, except for her eyes, which were a very cold winter grey.
"What do you want, Jedi?" she asked. I was not surprised that she had guessed our identity. She had strength in the Force but her skills were undirected, untutored. And she must have known that the Temple would have sent someone here, sooner or later.
"It is our understanding that not long ago, another man and his apprentice came to you seeking information..."
"Many come to me seeking...information." she interrupted, playing with her long dark hair. I felt a tendril of Force energy extend from her and begin caressing my own aura.
"Information," I continued, "about an abandoned fortress on a primitive planet."
The boy must leave. I was impressed. I had not expected telepathy. I smiled at her and she would not meet my gaze.
"Anakin, see that the Tauntauns are fed," I ordered.
"But Master!" he complained. I waved my hand at him and, without taking my eyes off the Witch, I felt for his exit. He was soundless, and had it not been for a rush of frigid air, I might not have known he had left.
"Perhaps now, we can discuss the fortress."
"After," she whispered.
I began removing my gloves.
A Jedi must give of himself wholly.