"Of course." Obi-Wan nodded.

At the top of several flights of durasteel stairs, the yawning spaces and hulking machinery gave way to a more hospitable living space. Standing with her back to the entrance among several mismatched but comfortable- looking couches was the woman Obi-Wan had seen on Jocasta Nu's holoscreen.

Lena Cobral.

Mica cleared her throat to announce their arrival. Lena turned.

"You've made it," she said, bringing her hands together and offering both of them to Qui-Gon and then Obi-Wan, and finally embracing Mica. "I'm so pleased. Was your journey very difficult?"

"It passed quickly," Qui-Gon told her before introducing himself and Obi-Wan.

Obi-Wan was glad that Qui-Gon had emerged again from silence, for he was not entirely sure he would have been able to manage the conversation so easily.

Lena Cobral had been attractive on the holoscreen, but in person she was stunning. Her long dark hair spilled over her shoulders, framing her face and dark eyes like Mica's. She was only a few years older than Obi- Wan, which surprised him. Like the Fregans in the street, her demeanor was relaxed. She greeted the Jedi as if they were old friends or honored guests at a party, not political escorts.

"Please sit," Lena said, guiding the Jedi to the chairs. "You need refreshment. Perhaps some Kopi tea?"

Before the Jedi could protest Lena was pouring a warm dark liquid into cups. It looked slightly orange and tasted delicious.

"My cousin Mica brings me everything now that I am in hiding." Lena smiled at the silent Mica. "She brought me this tea yesterday. And today she has brought you to me as well." Lena turned her infectious smile on the Jedi; Obi-Wan found that it was nearly impossible not to smile back.