The things a friend can change

The queen

Ignoring everything, I dashed towards them, getting them out as soon as possible. I would've liked to give them both a hug but I didn't have too big of an urge to do so.

Just a minute ago I had thought that having Barriss here would only give me even more pressure, but getting the slightest fear of her being gone was even more devastating. I'm just thankful that they were both doing all right.

After we had made our way back to the base, I immediately found a private spot where I pulled Barriss along with me.

"Anakin what..."

I cut her off by pulling her into a hug, showing my soft spot after a whole year of being strictly professional. Barriss was resilient at first, but she returned the hug after about a minute, giving me the comfort I haven't received in over a year.

She ran her hand through my hair just as I took the time to stroke the back of her neck.

"You've changed a lot Barriss."

"So have you Anakin." She smiled, "You're so much taller now."

"Now don't worry Barriss, from what I've heard Mirilan puberty goes on for quite a long time, possibly until the late 20's. For some it would even take until they're 30 to be fully developed. "

"Still showing off huh Anakin?" She giggled.

"Ahhh, that's the Barriss I remember." I remarked.

"Barriss, where are you?" Luminara asked.

"We'll – have to catch up another time Anakin."

"Can't wait for it."

"Come on, let's go before they suspect anything."

She was the first to hop out of the spot, turning her Master's attention elsewhere so that she wouldn't find anything suspicious about us.

"Hey Master, where have you been?"

"Nowhere snips, just—just here?"

"Uh huh, no wonder I couldn't find you."

"All right Ahsoka, it's time for you to go. Take some rest, sleep and get back when you're fully prepared." I instructed.

"Sure Master, I'll see you in a bit." She winked, walking away with Barriss. I gave them both a wave before getting ready for the next mission.

(3 hours later)

"How did you know they wouldn't just attack us?"

"Because I make observations while you think with your lightsaber."

"Well that quick thinking of mine is usually needed when your observations get us into trouble."

"Anakin the queen took Luminara hostage. She wanted a Jedi and now she has two more. I want to know what she's after

"Well when this doesn't go as planned which it won't, I'll be ready."

"That is so reassuring."

"I thought I told you not to follow me Master Kenobi."

"Yes, well I took a lesson from Anakin and decided not to follow orders."

"Hey."

This disgusting queen was creeping me out now. Just looking at her makes me incredibly irritated, not to mention that Obi Wan just had to negotiate with the monster.

Come on Obi Wan! Let's just finish this and get out of here.

"Isn't it always?"

Getting the message we pulled out our lightsabers while the troopers shed some light into the dark cave. Quickly freeing Master Unduli we cuffed and captured Poggle as we made our way out of this hellhole.