She already felt the hunger and the deep need for another dose of spice, but she would tolerate it for now. She could be strong. Anja had always been strong.
But she didn’t know how long she could last.
The simmering jungle sounds grew louder as she listened to them. The verdant jungle moon and Luke Skywalker’s Jedi academy seemed far, far away from anything else she had ever known.
“She’s not coming,” Jacen said, joining the other young Jedi Knights at the base of the Great Temple.
Jaina must have heard the note of dejection in his voice, because she put a comforting hand on his arm and said, “Anja probably wouldn’t enjoy exploring with us right now, anyway. She could probably use the time alone.”
“She seems kind of edgy since we got back,” Zekk agreed. “I’m sure it’s nothing personal.”
Lowie rumbled a suggestion.
“Indeed!” Em Teedee exclaimed. “I daresay we shall have an excellent time together if we make the attempt.”
“Ah. Aha.” Tenel Ka cleared her throat, then paused as if considering a very important topic. Her cool grey eyes met Jacen’s brandy-brown gaze. “Did you ever hear the story about the Jawa who mistook a rancor for a ronto?”
Jacen grinned and took her hand in his. “Yeah, I think so. But it’s a good one. Why don’t you tell it to us?”
Together, the friends walked toward the jungle.