The sun rose over the city of Theed as it did every morning. But, somehow, this morning was different; the light of dawn seemed brighter, the sounds outside clearer and the morning air, fresher. How long it would last was an entirely different matter. There was a storm lurking, just over the horizon, and when it would break only the Gods knew.

Both Obi-Wan and Padmé had been awake for some time. They remained silent, content to be wrapped in the arms of the other. The next words to be spoken would, undoubtedly bring pain. And neither wished to be the first to break the peace they had sought for so long.

Obi-Wan looked down at the lady in his arms. He loved her, truly he did. And, he could feel, she loved him too.

They dressed in silence, a feeling of solemnity permeating the room. The weather outside, in the world beyond, had changed dramatically. No longer bright and hopeful, the sky began to mirror the mood within. Clouds had gathered and, as Obi-Wan began to pack his belongings, rain, light and hushed, covered the city.

Padmé, her political stature and demeanor returned, sat stony-faced on the sofa in the living-area. Rustling sounds from the bedroom (drawers opening and closing, clothes being folded and packed) reached her ears. And with the sound came a pang of sadness that held her heart in an icy grip.

Dark brown outer robe wrapped tightly around him, and lightsaber fastened securely at his hip, Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi surveyed the room. The meager belongings (as was the way of the Order) were packed, the area was spotless, and all looked exactly as it had when he had arrived one week ago. Almost as if I had never been here at all, he thought glumly.

It pained him to leave this place, to leave her. And as he entered the sitting room, travel carrier in hand, the Jedi felt a painful pressure in his chest which made it difficult to breathe. She was seated on the sofa, her back to him, wearing the same gown she had the previous night.

Feet heavy and head lowered, Obi-Wan walked around the sofa and sat next to her. "Padmé," he began slowly, "There's something I need to tell you." Though he spoke with confidence, the fact that he still could not meet her eyes, revealed the turmoil within.

"We've been through a lot, you and I. Whatever it is, you can tell me," she replied with deep sincerity.

A mournful sigh escaped his mouth, "I thought a lot last night . . . as I held you, asleep in my arms. I went to sleep prepared to give it all up for you." If she had been standing, Padmé surely would have toppled over, so heavy was the weight of his statement.

"If we were truly meant to be together nothing, not the Senate, not the Jedi Order, would be able to keep us apart. The truth is, Padmé, there is another reason we can't be together. I don't know why yet, but the two of us are meant for something else . . . I can feel it. Despite the fact that I . . . love you." With great difficulty, the Knight finally looked into her eyes, deep sadness written on every line of his face. "And I do love you, Padmé. Very much."

Tears threatened to escape her eyes as she listened to his confession. Though she couldn't explain it either, Padmé knew he spoke the truth. With that, came another truth to be acknowledged and dealt with. It had been easy to deny her feelings as a crush for the past six years. But after last night? . . . Last night had changed everything.

A single tear slid down her cheek. "I love you too . . . And I know also that what you said, about our destiny, is the truth . . . I just wish we had more time."

Obi-Wan's hand moved up to brush away the renegade teardrop and his smile warmed her heart. "I, M'Lady, am nothing but grateful for the time that we did have . . . our meeting last week, after all these years, was not a coincidence. Through the Force, nothing happens by accident."

"I know . . . I feel it too."

"I want you to remember that, despite our past, you will always be dear to me. A dear friend . . . I'll always be there for you Padmé."

"You can be sure of the same from me, Obi-Wan . . . I hope you know that."

Padmé and Obi-Wan walked together through the gates of the palace to the transport platform where a lone Jedi Starfighter waited to take the Jedi back to Coruscant. There was no dramatic, tearful goodbye. The Knight and the Lady shared a deep embrace, which said more that words ever could. Their embrace, their connection, was beyond lovers, past even friendship. Theirs were connected souls. And, were they never to meet again, that fact would never change.

Before stepping onto the platform Padmé handed him a folded slip of paper and, with it, a single rose. It was pink, from the palace gardens, native to her planet. Lifting the flower up, Obi-Wan could smell her. Not just the rose, but the faintest hint of the waterfalls of Theed. Her unique scent, one he would never forget.

He then turned his attention to the paper. "What's this?"

"It's very important that you read that, okay? Wait until you break orbit."

Sparkling blue-green eyes met those of chocolate brown, brimming with tears. "I promise."

Obi-Wan was granted permission by Theed authorities to leave the planet. After waving to Senator Amidala, now joined on the platform by Sio Bibble and several other stuffy dignitaries, he ignited the engines and made his way skyward. Once securely attached to his hyperdrive ring, the Jedi put his astromech droid in charge of the piloting and, with trembling hands opened the note from Padmé . . .

Dearest Obi-Wan

There is something that I must tell you about the dream I had. Something I was afraid to disclose until now.

If what I experienced was, in fact, a vision of things to come I could not let you leave without you knowing this.

I had told you that there were two warriors fighting a great battle, with fire all around them.

But what I didn't tell you, and what I know pray you will take to heart and remember, is that one of the warriors was you.

I still don't know what it means, but I fear for you. Please, remember my words. Just in case.

I love you.

Padme