A Beacon in the Darkness

Chapter 7 - The Rising Threat

As tensions in the galaxy escalated, the Jedi Council summoned us for a critical mission. We were to travel to Naboo with Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi. The Trade Federation's blockade of the planet had sparked unrest, and we were tasked with assisting Queen Amidala in liberating her people. The weight of the assignment bore down on us, but it was also an opportunity to prove our skills and deepen our bond.

In the dimly lit halls of the Jedi Temple, I prepared for the journey. My thoughts were interrupted by the familiar presence of Master Yoda, who approached me with his characteristic calm.

"Luna," he said, his voice a gentle rumble. "Important mission, this is. Strong, you must be."

I nodded, feeling a mix of pride and apprehension. "Yes, Master Yoda. I understand the gravity of the situation."

He regarded me with wise, knowing eyes. "Sense a growing connection between you and Obi-Wan, I do. Cautious, you must be. Balance, a Jedi's path requires."

"Master," I began hesitantly, "is it wrong to feel a bond with a fellow Jedi? To draw strength from each other?"

"Wrong, it is not," Yoda replied thoughtfully. "But careful, you must be. Attachments lead to the dark side, they can. Trust in the Force, you must."

His words resonated deeply, a reminder of the fine line we walked as Jedi. I bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Master Yoda. I will heed your wisdom."

Yoda nodded, his expression softening. "Believe in you, I do. May the Force be with you, Luna."

---

The journey to Naboo began with a gathering in the Council chamber, where we were briefed on the mission. The holographic image of Naboo flickered in the center of the room, surrounded by the solemn faces of the Jedi Council.

"Padawan Luna Harper, Obi-Wan Kenobi," Mace Windu's voice was authoritative yet reassuring. "You will accompany Qui-Gon Jinn to negotiate the end of the blockade. Queen Amidala's safety is paramount."

"Understood, Master Windu," Obi-Wan and I replied in unison, a sense of shared purpose binding us.

Our ship glided through hyperspace, the stars stretching into lines of light. I sat beside Obi-Wan, our shoulders nearly touching. The tension in the air was palpable, but his calm demeanor was a source of comfort.