Obi-Wan was on the observation deck of the Justice, one of the cruisers that were transferring the Rebel Alliance from the no longer safe outpost of Yavin 4 to a new secret base on Hoth.

He was standing by the large window, arms folded, watching the flashing-by stars, in deep conversation with Qui-Gon.

Luke has so much power Qui-Gon, but he is so innocent. He is like Anakin when you first found him.

The Lars did a good job with him. They have kept him sheltered, protected and uncorrupted. However, Luke is also very naïve. You must teach him to be more careful about the persons he decides to trust. Vader felt his presence during the battle, and he is already trying to discover who he was. It won't be long before he hears Luke's name.

Obi-Wan nodded, his brown furrowed. I know.

What about Leia? She isn't as naïve as her brother.

Obi-Wan smiled. She is everything but naïve. As far as I know she had been involved in the Rebellion since she was little more than a child. I suppose Bail wanted to make sure she learned quickly to always keep her guard up.

That's highly probable.

She is a very gifted and capable leader, and an idealist. Padmé would be proud of her.

Am I right if I say I hear more than admiration for a politician in your voice, Obi-Wan? Qui-Gon's inquired, amusement colouring his tone.

Master! Obi-Wan exclaimed, shocked—but it lasted only a moment. You are right. I cannot help but feel fascinated by her. She is so young and yet so mature. There is a fire in her, like-

Siri's? You always had a soft spot for strong-willed women.

Yes, I did. But I thought to have left these things behind. At my age-

You talk as if you were as old as Yoda, Obi-Wan, but you are only fifty-seven, which is nothing for the people coming from your home planet, and still young looking. It's natural you feel attracted to such a beautiful young woman.

Perhaps, but I would gladly do without it. I already have enough problems meditating and keeping my shields up with all these people around. I don't need this added complication of having to control and release my feelings for her.

Who says you have to control and release them? Qui-Gon asked calmly.

"What?!" Obi-Wan exclaimed aloud and his voice echoed in the empty room.

There is nothing wrong in your feelings, Obi-Wan, and I think you deserve some happiness after everything you had to endure.

But…but the Code…

Obi-Wan, you, Yoda and Luke are the only Jedi still alive and we agreed long ago that if Luke is able to reach Anakin, it will be because of their father-son tie. Given this premise, do you think the rules against emotional attachment should stay on?

Yes! Obi-Wan said with emphasis. Look at where attachment led Anakin! He ran his hand through his hair, frustrated.

Then look at where your attachment to Luke and myself led you! Qui-Gon retorted.

Obi-Wan was about to answer when he sensed a familiar Force signature come closer.

As Qui-Gon's essence disappeared from the room, the door opened to admit Leia.

She was again wearing the white dress she had donned during the celebration on Yavin 4 and she looked simply stunning.

Obi-Wan looked at her without speaking until she asked, "May I come in?"

"Of course."

He watched as she moved more into the room, until she came to stop near the window by his side, close enough he could smell her delicate perfume.

Silence reigned on the room for a while, then Leia said without looking at him, "Obi-Wan?"

"Yes?"

"I have come to apologize for my behaviour in the Massassi Outpost greenhouse. I had no right to judge you as I did. I am sorry."

"There is no need for you to feel sorry, Leia, but I will accept your apology if it makes you feel better."

Leia nodded and turned to face him. "You must have reputed me very childish," she added in self-deprecation.

Obi-Wan shook his head. "No. I just thought you were – and are – passionate, devoted to the Rebellion and still shocked by your father's death. You may have acted impulsively, but certainly not childishly."

"You think me passionate?" Leia asked, staring straight at his eyes, and Obi-Wan understood she was referring to another kind of passion.

"I-" Obi-Wan was saved from having to give her an answer when the door slid open.

"There you are, Ben. I wanted to ask you something about the third kata…Oh, hello Leia!"

"Hello, Luke. I will leave you two alone now…"

Obi-Wan turned all of his attention on his Padawan as Leia moved to the exit, but he knew he would keep on thinking about her question for a long time.