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THE SUN had fully set, leaving the sky painted with deep purples and blues as the group made their way back to the Republic cruiser. Aruna lagged behind, her mind still racing with thoughts about the day's mission and her complicated dynamic with Anakin.
Once they boarded the ship, she felt a wave of exhaustion wash over her, but she knew she couldn't rest just yet. She needed to clear her head.
As the others dispersed to report their findings and check in with the Jedi Council, Aruna found a quiet corner in the ship's lounge. She leaned against the wall, breathing deeply, when she heard the familiar voice of Obi-Wan Kenobi approach.
"Lost in thought again, Aruna?" he asked, a hint of amusement in his tone.
"Just... processing everything," she admitted, rubbing the back of her neck. "The mission went well, but I feel like there's so much to sort through."
Obi-Wan nodded knowingly, his expression shifting to one of concern. "You mean Anakin."
Aruna looked up, forcing herself to keep her expression neutral. "I suppose. It's just... we're so different. He's impulsive and reckless, while I try to think things through. I can't help but feel like our styles clash, especially in the heat of battle."
Obi-Wan crossed his arms, leaning against the wall beside her. "That's true, but those differences can also complement each other. Anakin thrives in chaos, while you bring a sense of strategy to the table. It's what makes you both a formidable team."
Aruna bit her lip, considering his words. "I get that, but sometimes it feels like he doesn't take things seriously. I want to be a good Jedi, but he seems to thrive on bending the rules."
"Ah, the infamous Anakin Skywalker," Obi-Wan said with a slight smile. "It's important to remember that he's still learning. He can be impetuous, but he also cares deeply. You might just need to find common ground. Your strengths can balance his weaknesses."
"I guess," Aruna replied, shrugging slightly. "But it's hard to see that when I'm in the middle of a mission with him. I just don't want to hold him back or get in his way."
Obi-Wan regarded her thoughtfully, his brow furrowing. "It's a delicate situation, but I can assure you that he values your presence. Your friendship is something he cherishes, even if he doesn't always show it."
"I hope so," she murmured, her heart heavy with unspoken feelings. The last thing she wanted was for Obi-Wan to see the depth of her feelings for Anakin. The Jedi Code warned against attachment, and she wouldn't betray that principle.
"Patience is key, Aruna," Obi-Wan continued. "Relationships—friendships or otherwise—take time to develop. You're both young and still figuring things out. Just give him time to process his own emotions."
"Right. Patience," she echoed, nodding slowly. "It's just hard when I feel like he's always one step ahead of me. I don't want to feel like I'm always following in his shadow."
