A/N: Thanks to Relyan, MutantJediBauer and Red Bess Rackham for my reviews! Thanks guys! Sorry this chapter took so long, it's not even very interesting but there we go! Enjoy!

Chapter Three - Decisions.

Ariana made her way down to the Temple doing her best not to sulk. She was right in thinking it was very unfair that Master Qui-Gon never included her in anything important like Yoda's council when Obi-Wan was always included without debate.

Ariana entered the Temple and felt instantly relaxed by the serenity of the room. She found herself a quiet spot and sat down, crossing her legs.

Ariana settled her mind, clearing it of everything until she was at complete peace with her body and mind.

She then began meditating on Aurelia, going far back to when Ariana was first assigned to Master Aurelia who had only been a recently graduated Jedi Knight herself.

Ariana recalled her thoughts on her new Master, her gracefulness and beauty when she walked and spoke and her unmatched talent at duelling.

Of course, Ariana had been very naïve and thought Aurelia was the ultimate Jedi, the very best and only matched by Master Yoda.

Aurelia took great care and attention to Ariana, singling her out especially and showering her with utmost praise. Ariana simply idolised her Master from the moment they met and couldn't hold her any higher in her eyes.

Qui-Gon discouraged Ariana from thinking on Aurelia's death too much but her meditation always obviously ended on it. She had been full of if only's as a child but now she realised Aurelia had passed and that was the end. She missed her terribly still however.

- - -

"My Padawan gave word that Yoda summoned me," Qui-Gon explained when he and Obi-Wan reached the chamber where Yoda held his council.

The tall Jedi, Mace Windu, stepped aside and allowed the two men to enter.

Obi-Wan still felt incredibly belittled whenever he was present in this chamber. It was beautifully decorated and the atmosphere was so serene and peaceful.

"Welcome Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan," came the raspy greeting of Master Yoda. The Jedi bent on one knee to show their respect before standing straight once again.

"Wonder why I summoned you, do you?" Yoda asked in his usual slightly bemused voice he always used. "Grave trouble is strife."

Qui-Gon registered the words and immediately wanted to know everything.

"Where?" Qui-Gon asked simply, pushing his simmering questions back down.

"Planet Naboo. The young Queen Arliss, captured by rebels she has," Yoda said slowly and clearly to the Jedi.

Qui-Gon felt Obi-Wan stiffen next to him. He was a compassionate soul and had a habit of mimicking the feelings of endangered people even when he did not know them.

"That's terrible," Qui-Gon replied simply. "What is being done to help her? What state is the planet in?"

"Very little," Yoda sighed. "Given up hope, her people have. The Force tells me she is still alive however."

Qui-Gon was quiet. Her people had given up on her? It was their duty to stay true to their Queen until her body was burnt in death.

"You want us to go?" Obi-Wan asked boldly. He felt strongly about this case and knew he had to go and at least try and find her. After-all Queen Arliss was only fourteen years old and would need all the help she could get if her people had given up on her.

"Yes Obi-Wan," Yoda replied softly. "Strong feelings, you have. Good."

Qui-Gon nodded his head. He would accept. How could he not in circumstances like these?

"Take both Padawan's, you must Master Qui-Gon," Yoda added, a small sparkle in his large eyes.

Obi-Wan looked up at the old Master. Take Ariana with them? She was not ready for such a quest of these measures, she was barely ready to step from the Temple.

"Of course Master Yoda," Qui-Gon obeyed, part of him understanding why Ariana was necessary but he too, was dubious.

"Deserves more credit young Ariana does. No longer a little girl," Yoda finished simply.

Qui-Gon looked bemused, Obi-Wan not so sure.

They bowed to the council and left again.

"Master, may I present my doubts?" Obi-Wan asked instantly as they began striding down toward the Temple.

"No, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon replied softly. "You should have no doubts at Yoda's decision. He believes Ariana is ready."

"Do you?" Obi-Wan pressed, looking at his Master.

Qui-Gon did not reply.