A/N: Thanks to MutantJediBauer for my review! It is so incredibly difficult to keep Obi-Wan in character as I'm not actually too sure on his personality! I did however, buy a Jedi Apprentice book to get some backround on training etc. Enjoy!

Chapter Two - Understanding.

Much to Ariana's disgruntlement, Obi-Wan had explained to their Master about the Padawan's conversation and Ariana was now seated in front of Qui-Gon Jinn in his personal living quarters within the academy.

"He was supposed to forget it," Ariana said quietly, looking into her lap and at her fingers that were fiddling with the hem of her shirt nervously.

"I was surprised you did not come to me," Qui-Gon said mildly. "But dare I say, you look up to Obi-Wan almost as much as you do me."

His words rang true, the two years between herself and Obi-Wan had great effect on Ariana for Obi-Wan was much more mature and experienced, making him stand a little below Master Qui-Gon in Ariana's eyes.

"Can you explain to me about human emotions Master? Like you did Obi-Wan?" Ariana asked hopefully. Perhaps if Qui-Gon explained this jealousy thing then maybe Ariana could see clearer on the matter.

"I could never explain the complexity of human emotions my young Padawan. As Jedi, we are spared the trials and tribulations of anger and jealousy, lust and love that torment other living species so," Qui-Gon explained. Ariana leant forward, drinking in everything her Master said.

"Why can't we love?" The words tumbled from Ariana's mouth before she could stop them.

"Love can be a very powerful tool. I've seen love destroy some of the best rulers of the greatest planets and cloud the minds of devious dictators. In truth Ariana, Jedi's can't afford to love. Our job and place is far too important without distractions to distance us from the Force," Qui-Gon continued gently.

Ariana stared at her Master, absorbing the words and allowing her mind to make sense of them.

"But back to your jealousy. Why do you feel this way about Obi-Wan?" Qui-Gon pressed on, changing the subject. Ariana had so many more questions about love but reluctantly answered.

"Because he's so much better than me."

"Why do you think that is?"

"Because he works harder, he is ultimately better in every aspect."

"I believe, my Padawan that you have answered your own question," Qui-Gon said with a small smile. "Obi-Wan is better because he works hard, he wants to be better. You still have very much to learn Ariana."

"But that feeling, should I be having that?" Ariana questioned, fearful of the answer.

"It is only natural that your mind and body will become curious about the human inside of you. As long as it doesn't begin to start affecting judgements and decisions, it is perfectly normal," Qui-Gon said mildly. "But promise me something."

"Anything," Ariana replied at once.

"If you feel anything, anything else at all, you are to come straight to me," Qui-Gon said, his piercing blue eyes pressing into Ariana's own brown eyes.

"I promise Master."

"Very well. Tell me, when was the last time you meditated?" Qui-Gon questioned.

"Um," Ariana stalled as her Master's intense gaze slowly folded into a smile.

"Onto the Temple then. Take some time to meditate on Aurelia. Good evening Ariana," Qui-Gon said finally, and Ariana knew it was time to leave her Master's presence. No more questions tonight.

"Good evening Master," Ariana said with a nod as she got up to leave. The door slid open and Ariana was presented with a stormy faced Obi-Wan Kenobi.

"Obi-Wan!" Ariana cried in surprise at seeing her friend. Behind her, Qui-Gon had stood up sensing Obi-Wan had something important to say.

"Master Yoda has requested your presence," Obi-Wan said simply, ignoring Ariana. "It's important Master."

Ariana was almost fit to bursting with questions but she remained quiet. What was going on?

"Come Obi-Wan. Ariana, onto the Temple," Qui-Gon said, sweeping past the girl.

"But -," Ariana began but the look from Obi-Wan silenced her instantly. She watched as her Master and her friend stalked off down the corridor, making their way toward Master Yoda's chamber.