Chapter 11

"…I stand before you because my world's democratic government has been overthrown by the military forces established by my predecessor," Queen Jammilia pleaded. "That force has ruthlessly crushed the civilian population which attempted to resist this action. Communications from loyalist supporters on Naboo have given reports of martial law and the suspension of civil liberties. Our recent peaceful cooperation with the Gungans who inhabit the world have been destroyed by Padme Amidala's warmonging. I beg the Senate to take action to prevent Naboo from falling into tyranny."

As the young woman ceased her speech the Chancellor, a Siniteen named Bec Lawise, rose and said, "The Senate thanks the Queen of Naboo for her words. Are there any who would be recognized."

Immediately half a dozen Senators asked, and after a moment Lawise said, "The Chair recognizes Senator Bail Organa of Alderaan."

"Senators," Bail said, his pod flying up into the grand chamber. "I am acquainted with Senator Amidala of Naboo, and have been in communication with her since the institution of her government six days ago. Naboo is a democracy only through custom, and actions of its prior leaders, one which was never intended to be permanent. The Naboo Constituion allow for the reintroduction of a hereditary monarchy. She has forwarded to me documentation showing the legal adoption of this clause, with herself named as the installed monarch."

"That's a lie," Jammilia shouted. "Anything she changed was…"

"The Chair has not recognized the delegate from Naboo," Lawise said firmly. "Please continue Senator Organa."

"I have submitted these documents to the Chancellor's office for review," Bail Organa said. "They should be arriving." Mas Amedda checked, then confirmed that they had arrived. "Furthermore," Organa continued, "by this body' own lack of action in the matter of Mandalore just five years ago the removal of a government by the population is considered a legal transfer of power."

"That was different," the Techno-Union Senator answered, a sentiment rapidly repeated by the Senator from Mandalore.

"The chair has not recognized the delegates the Techno Union nor Mandalore," The Chancellor answered. "Senator Organa, do you have anything to add?"

Bail Organa decline to continue and returned to his pod's berth. The debate continued, but as it went on it became clear the Senate had no appetite for an intervention against Naboo. The Chancellor's suggestions of economic sanctions intended to restore democratic government, or at least allow a more transparent constitutional amendment were shot down by Kuat senator Danu, who argued Naboo was a key purchaser of products produced by the Drive Yards, an argument which also won over the Techno Union.

As she sat in the Naboo suite of 500 Republica afterward she asked, "Is there anything more we could do?"

Senator Veron said sadly, "Unfortunately there is little left. The Senate has decline to pursue the matter, and I very much doubt any argument will persuade them." He frowned, "I am not surprised, the Senate has been weak of late, more than even when our world was threatened by the Trade Federation. Still, I had hoped Senator Organa would take our side."

"Organa," Jammilia asked, "Why would you think that? He seems to have been our greatest opponent."

"Quite so," Veron confirmed, "But he has never struck me as an unreasonable man before today, nor one who would stand in our way. His opposition implies to me that…there is something going on deeper than we know about. And he was backed without objection by both Garm Bel Iblis and Mon Mothma, who have always been friendly."

"What do you suppose could be behind it?" Jammilia asked.

Veron shrugged, "I unfortunately have no idea. However, as it has only been a few months since my appointment its possible there is some agreement from before my time between Amidala and certain Senators neither you nor I was informed of." He paced for a time before saying, "As I see it we have one final slim possibility."

"What is it?" Jammilia asked, desperate for any lifeline which would save her planet from the military.

"We appeal directly to the Jedi," Veron suggested.

"The Jedi?" Jammilia asked. "Would they help without permission from the Senate?"

"The Jedi have grown more independent of late," Veron answered. "They still are under the command of the Senate, but the Council has begun issuing orders and missions without consulting either the Senate or the Chancellor's office, while relying on the deadlock which currently holds firm within the Chamber, as well as their own reputation, to avoid reprimand. They have effectively tied the hands of the Death Watch on Mandalore, brokered an agreement to cease the building cold war between the Trade Federation and the Techno-Union before it had time to really start, and have pushed for more action taken to police the Outer Rim."

"They have?" Jammilia asked, a bit skeptical. The Jedi had a reputation for only being diplomats within the Republic.

"Their independent actions are not widely publicized," Veron noted. "Most of the Senators think its primarily Master Dooku's doing." He thought for a moment, then added, "Some are whispering that elements Jedi are pushing the Senate to repeal the Ruusan Reformation."

"Repeal…" Jammilia breathed. It was unthinkable. The Ruusan Reforms had stood for a thousand years, since the last great war had ended. It was the foundation of the modern Republic. If the Jedi were talking of repealing it, even a significant element of the Jedi, then they must expect something was coming, something big. "Would they agree to help us?"

"Its worth trying," Veron answered.

"I am very disappointed in you Veruna," Luke said, settling down into the chair opposite the traitor. "We all are." The man refused to say anything in response. "Funneling blasters to the Gungans," Luke continued. "I wonder, what will we do with you. Tell me, how many did you get to their military before we caught you." The man remained silent, and Luke sighed. "I really don't have time for you to refuse to cooperate," he said. He raised one hand, and said, "You will tell me."

Veruna smiled and said, "Of course. I delivered eighty-one heavy blaster emplacements to Gungan agents on the outside of the base. Sixteen loyalists went with them to instruct in weapon use and set-up."

Luke scowled, then stood and exited the room. Panaka was waiting outside, and he had the same expression. "Eighty heavy blaster emplacements in prepared positions," Panaka noted. "We'll lose at least a few fighters if they have those set up."

Luke nodded, "We will. Has Padme reconsidered allowing bombardment?"

Panaka shook his head, "She won't allow it, she's made that abundantly clear. Can't say I blame her really. We're trying to defend the planet, not destroy large chunks of it. And we don't want the Gungans dead, we just to want make them give up."

"We'll need to be careful about flyovers at least," Luke noted. "Cease all flights over Gungan territory until we can try to pinpoint the weapon locations."

"And the prisoner?"

"Shoot him and dump the body in the swamp," Luke said dismissively. "Say the Gungans raided the base and killed him. When this is over the other deserters can be given the same treatment."

"Consider we must this proposal," Yoda said as the door to the Council Chambers closed. Outside all of them could feel the young queen of Naboo waiting for their decision. "Most disturbing Padme Amidala's actions are. Master Qui-Gon, familiar you are with the woman, what are your thoughts."

Qui-Gon Jinn gathered his thoughts, then said, "I would not have expected such a move from her. Queen Amidala exercised significant caution during my time with her, always going in disguise while not on Coruscant. She never acted as Queen even on her ship, going so far as to ensure her duplicate gave her orders as a handmaiden, to maintain the illusion. I would guess she was manipulated into it by interests within the Naboo military."

"Or outside it," Dooku noted. "We still have not located the remaining Sith Lord. Perhaps Vader seeks to finish the job that Sidious started on Naboo."

"That is a possibility which must be considered," Qui-Gon agreed. "I feel we should investigate."

"As do I," Dooku intoned, though no one present was surprised that the most militaristic master in the Order would do so.

"The overthrow of a democratic government within the Republic would be grounds for our intervention regardless of Sith influence," Mace Windu said. "With the possibility I feel we must investigate."

"Naboo has significant military forces," Shaak Ti, who had replaced Bilaba when she stepped down to focus on work inside the Temple, noted, "with many apparently loyal to Amidala."

"I do not believe a military option would be necessary," Qui-Gon clarified. "A small team of Jedi negotiators would suffice. If Amidala has been led astray by outside influences I believe convincing her to abandon this course will not be a monumental task. The conspirators likely needed her to gain the loyalty of the majority of the fleet and army. If she steps down they will follow."

"You know her Master Qui-Gon, "Windu noted. "You would likely be the best choice."

"And Anakin was friendly with her before he was accepted," Qui-Gon agreed. "The two of us will suffice."

"The matter of your Padawan's trial does still lie before us," Windu said.

"He has passed the tests we put before him," Qui-Gon said. "The final move to knighthood would only require an acceptance by the Council."

"Find no reason to deny him the Council can," Yoda answered. "Knighthood, bestowed on him will be. Agreed we are on the course of action for Naboo." The Council unanimously assented. Yoda gestured and the door of the Council Chamber swung open. "Jammilia of Naboo, return to us."

The young Queen entered, and they could feel her nervousness, tempered with hope. "Agree with you the Council does." Yoda told her. "Master Qui-Gon Jinn and Knight Anakin Skywalker will return to Naboo with you to negotiate for the removal of Padme Amidala and the restoration of the previous Constitution."

"Thank you," the woman said, relief palpable. "I can leave immediately…"

"Give us a few hours," Qui-Gon said kindly. "Anakin and I will have to prepare." The young woman thanked them again, and left when she was dismissed. As soon as she was out of the room Qui-Gon flicked his comm-link and said, "Anakin, could you report to the Council Chamber."

Soon the Padawan arrived, and bowed respectfully, "Anakin Skywalker, reporting as instructed."

"Considered your trials the Council has," Yoda informed him. "Passed them you have."

Anakin's face lit up, "Thank you," he said. "When should I report the Tranquility Spire?"

"Waved that requirement I do," Yoda said. "Urgent circumstances require your presence, and you will face this mission as a knight." With a flick the tiny master summoned his lightsaber and cut Anakin's braid. "By the right of the Council, and the Will of the Force, I dub thee, Jedi Knight of the Republic," Yoda said.

"Congratulations young Skywalker," Dooku noted. "You are the youngest knight in Order history."

"Thank you masters," Anakin said, taking his braid and bowing again, "I will not disappoint you."

"Those kriffing nerf herders," Padme screamed as she threw the datapad. Luke could not remember ever seeing her this angry.

"Who?" He asked, gingerly picking up the pad.

"The Republic," she snapped. "When the Trade Federation occupied us they do less than nothing. When the Techno Union overthrew Satine they did nothing. But we reassert ourselves and suddenly the Jedi are being dispatched to 'negotiate' Jammilia's reinstatement."

Luke finished scanning the datapad and said, "It says the Senate has refused to act, and did not dispatch Jedi."

"The Chancellor can dispatch Jedi without Senate approval," Padme said dismissively. "Valorum did it, and I'm sure Lawise has no problem doing so if it means leaving us defenseless." She stood up and positively radiated righteous fury. "Well I won't have it," she snarled. "I will not step down, I will not give up."

She looked out over the city, where some fires still burned. "Get that cleaned up," she said fiercely. "Lock the dissidents away."

"The prisons are full," Luke said, "It will take time to build additional areas." There hadn't been very many prisons on Naboo in the first place he didn't bother adding. Trying to house an extra few thousand dissidents was far more than the tiny correctional system could handle.

"The Trade Federation established camps when they took over," Amidala said. "Those areas can be rapidly reconverted into housing."

"Of course, my lady," Luke said, issuing a few orders through his own datapad.

"Get them over to our side if you can," Amidala ordered. "Otherwise hold them until they aren't a threat."

The two Delta-7 Starfighters jettisoned their hyperdrive rings and descended to the planet Theed, the Naboo cruiser coming behind them. As they entered the atmosphere a squadron of N-5 fighters rose to meet them, and the comm of Anakin's fighter crackled. "Jedi craft, be aware you are in restricted airspace," a voice he recognized as Olie from so long ago said. "Do not deviate from designated flight plan." Qui-Gon signaled understanding, and Anakin fell in line with the descending fighters. More fighters rose to meet the cruiser which followed.

The city of Theed rose rapidly, and the escorting ships passed over a large base to descend on the palace itself. They touched down minutes later, and the first thing Anakin noticed in the hangar were the soldiers. They wore primarily white armor with yellow and blue highlights. The helmets reminded him of historical Mandalorian armor, with a T-shaped visor over the eyes and nose. They also all carried long blaster rifles, of a variety Anakin wasn't immediately familiar with.

Before he could dwell on this however he felt a sudden sense of recognition from Qui-Gon, and wondered what his former master was thinking. He hopped out of the cockpit and looked around the hangar for an escort party. There wasn't one. As the cruiser settled down however the soliders formed up and moved to the bottom of the extending ramp. As soon as it touched down they charged up, and Anakin could barely react before he heard the stun blasts being fired.

Immediately his lightsaber flew into his hand, but Qui-Gon stopped him from igniting it. "We are here on a mission of peace," the master said. "We can work despite this."

Less than two minutes later the soldiers marched back down, leading a group of men in pilot uniforms, as well as Jammilia. All of them were wearing binders. Behind them came the Naboo troops, one of whom broke off and advanced toward the two Jedi. "The Queen will see you in the throne room," he said shortly.

"What of them?" "Qui-Gon asked.

"They will be imprisoned in the palace." The trooper answered, keeping his answer vague. "When this is over those who helped the rogue escape will be tried."

"And executed," Qui-Gon asked, keeping his voice carefully neutral.

"Not for me to say," the man answered. "However, Amidala has ordered you go to the throne room immediately, and has authorized your expulsion from the planet if this directive is ignored."

Qui-Gon nodded, and began moving forward, a small escort joining them. Anakin, a little stunned that the planet he'd heard so much about from Padme was so unfriendly now, followed. He didn't say anything however, instead falling in line with his master. A dozen different thoughts raced through his mind. He wondered if Padme was still employed at the palace, whether she remembered him, whether she had married or perhaps…but no, he rejected that thought. He was a Jedi knight. Much as he might have liked her in his youth there was no place for his feelings. But still if things were different…

The escort left them at a lift to the top of the palace, and as the two Jedi stood alone Qui-Gon noted, "You seem tense Anakin."

"Yes master," Anakin said automatically.

"I am no longer your master," Qui-Gon said gently. "It is time you called me Qui-Gon." He smiled and suddenly said, "You are thinking of the girl aren't you?"

"Yes mas…Qui-Gon," Anakin corrected. "I haven't seen her in years, and I wonder…"

"If she remembers you," his former master asked. "Don't be so surprised, you are not the first student I have had who was infatuated. I understand Obi-Wan returned to her after leaving the Order."

"And that was alright?" Anakin asked, this was the first he had heard about Obi-Wan Kenobi's past outside of vague mentions.

"Oh yes," Qui-Gon said. "I believe his lingering feelings were part of why he departed." He turned and smiled, "I want you to understand Anakin, what he felt, and what you might feel is not wrong. The Jedi Code is…inflexible in some ways, ways that perhaps it shouldn't be. I want you to remember that."

Anakin nodded, "Thank you master. I just wonder if I'll even see her."

The lift was slowing down as he felt his former master suddenly stiffen. "Are you not aware…?" Qui-Gon began, but the doors were already opening.

"Aware of what?" Anakin asked, stepping off the elevator.

As he did so someone announced, "Her Majesty, Queen Padme Amidala of Naboo."

Anakin stiffened as he looked at the throne and saw her sitting , the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen. She wasn't wearing the make-up or the formal robes, instead she was wearing what was clearly a military jumpsuit, and openly wore a blaster. And she was radiating fury unlike anything he'd ever felt. "Tell me," she said coldly. "How is it that the Senate cannot be bothered to send aid to help defend its member worlds, but when we assert ourselves the Jedi are dispatched."

Qui-Gon seemingly ignoring her outrage bowed and said, "Your Majesty. It has been a long time."

Padme didn't acknowledge his greeting, instead continuing, "Tell whoever sent you that I have no intention of giving up this planet."

"Your majesty, I am not here on the orders of anyone. Queen Jammilia made a personal request of the Jedi Council, and I am here as a negotiator to restore democratic rule," Qui-Gon said, using the Force to try to calm Amidala. Anakin said nothing, still stunned by the realization of just who he'd had a crush on in his youth.

Qui-Gon's effort was working, and as Padme's expression settled to something more neutral she said, "I will not negotiate. The people of Naboo must be protected. No one else can be trusted to do so."

"Consider what you are doing," Qui-Gon said gently. "The Republic has been ruled democratically for hundreds of generations, Naboo itself since it joined the Republic. Your seizure of power has undermined the basis of that history."

Padme frowned, "I do not recall the Jedi objecting when Mandalore's government was overthrown."

Qui-Gon started to answer, but the doors of the lift behind them opened. Anakin turned his head to see the last person he'd expected, Luke Skywalker coming through. He was wearing a black jumpsuit and cloak, and announced, "Jammilia is secure. Her co-conspirators have been confined separately."

"Thank you Luke," Padme answered.

Without another word Luke passed the two Jedi and settled into a position just to the right of Padme's throne. Qui-Gon took the opportunity to note, "The Jedi Order has taken steps to defend the people of Malastare from Death Watch actions. Our inspections have revealed no atrocities, despite the claims of their opponents, and ongoing investigation shows no aggressive action."

"The Death Watch," Luke countered, "are a sect bent on restarting the Mandalorian Wars. If they have made no aggressive action it is solely because they do not feel strong enough to begin." At his words the room looked at him in surprise and he shrugged, "I have connections with interested parties." Anakin assumed he meant Satine Kryze, it was widely known in the Jedi Order that a Skywalker had been involved in her rescue.

"You may be correct," Qui-Gon conceded. "However, the Order has uncovered no evidence of these accusations. The introduction of Mandal Hypernautics into the Techno Union has also…" He hadn't even finished when it became clear that had been the wrong course to take.

"Oh yes," Padme almost shouted, her anger returning in full. "Tell me about the corporate backed government, the same way the Trade Federation tried to take over mine. You may have forgotten Master Qui-Gon," she injected as much contempt as she could into that phrase, "but I have not. My people were killed when the same corporate scum tried to keep us in line." She breathed deeply, letting a measure of calm return before finishing, "There will be no negotiation. Return to whoever sent you and tell them, Naboo is my planet, and I intend to keep it safe no matter the cost."

Qui-Gon tried to argue, but there was no budging Padme this time. Finally he grudgingly agreed, but noted, "Think on what you are doing today your Majesty. Your actions jeopardize hundreds of years of peace and prosperity."

Padme coldly answered, "If I do so, it is only in answer to others who have done the same."

"What of Jammilia?" Qui-Gon asked finally.

Padme shrugged, "She will be tried of course. Her escape left several of my men dead, and she must answer for that crime."

"I would ask you to release her into Jedi custody," Qui-Gon said. "Allow her to retire off-planet. Save Naboo a split in its loyalties."

Padme considered, then finally said, "Very well." She raised one hand and said, "But if Jammilia ever sets foot on this planet again I will have her executed. And I will hold you, and the Order responsible for any actions she may take. Do you understand?"

Qui-Gon nodded, "Yes your majesty."

Padme waved her hand and said, "Luke, escort the Jedi master to the prisoner's chambers, and then down to the hangar. They are to take no detours."

"Of course your Majesty," Luke said, bowing slightly to her, then starting forward. He smiled a little to Anakin as he passed, before saying, "Master Qui-Gon." Qui-Gon nodded, but Anakin asked, "May I stay a moment?"

Luke shrugged, "If you wish. The queen would probably like to speak to you. Come to the hangar when you are done."

Qui-Gon followed him into the lift, and it whirred away. Anakin approached the Queen and said, "I guess I never worked it out."

Padme frowned, then her face lit up, "Ani, is that you? My you've grown."

Anakin's face turned red as he said awkwardly, "So have you. Uh…I mean, you've grown more beautiful." As soon as he had said it he turned ever redder as he realized just how stupid that must have sounded.

Padme however smiled wider. "Thank you," She said. He couldn't tell if she was making fun on him. "A full Jedi Knight, congratulations."

"The youngest in Order history," Anakin confirmed. "Master Qui-Gon recommended me for the trials two years ago, but I wasn't sure I was ready. But he's always pushing me forward, and I passed them just before we left. The Council even skipped the normal ceremony so I could be knight before…"

"Before you came here," Padme said somberly. She sighed, "I wish that had gone differently Ani, really I do, but…Naboo is in danger. The entire Republic is in danger, and no one is willing to do anything to stop it."

"The Jedi," he started.

"Aren't in a position to do anything," She said firmly. "Even if they were I don't know if they really want to." She suddenly said, "But enough about that, have you seen your mother?"

"Last year," Anakin confirmed. "After we left Watto had to sell her to keep his business afloat, and she was purchased by a man who fell in love with and freed her. She uh, was captured by Tusken Raiders two years ago, but we arrived as a search party was setting out to find her. Our presence saved the group, and we were able to negotiate for her release."

"Luke told me that Tusken Raiders don't generally negotiate," Padme noted.

"We may have had to open negotiations with our lightsabers," Anakin noted. "No one was hurt though. I think we left the impression of some kind of vengeful gods honestly. Master Qui-Gon convinced them to leave the settlers around Anchorhead alone." He smiled a little tightly, "Don't think that agreement will last very long, but maybe."

The pair talked a little longer, until finally Padme said, "I think its time to go Ani. I wish things had been different." He nodded and went to the lift.

Jammila sat alone on the Naboo starcruiser, crewed by men loyal to Amidala, as it warmed for takeoff. The Jedi had failed, and now Naboo was doomed to an end to its democracy. The Republic itself had failed. Bitterly she had to wonder if maybe Amidala had a point, perhaps would did have to stand alone in the galaxy. However, she rejected the idea. The Republic had stood for a thousand generations, and had maintained the peace for a thousand years. Her generation would not be the one which sent the great galactic power spiraling to ruin. Somehow she would have to take action to remove the rogue queen and her supporters, if only the oppurtunity would present itself.

With a heavy sigh she rose and crossed the room's entrance, where two men stood guard outside. They both wore that same armor Amidala had adopted, though they carried shorter carbines rather than the standard issue blaster rifles. One ordered, "back inside."

"I was just wondering..." Jammilia started.

"Back inside," the man ordered. "The Queen has said you are not to leave this room until we reach Corascant, and then you are to be released to the Jedi, and only the Jedi."

She took a step back, wondering how she might change his mind when the sound of blaster fire from deeper within the ship began. Both men snapped their weapons up, and one grabbed his commlink. "What is going on?" he demanded. There was nothing but static from the other side, and a moment later the blaster fire faded.

Then the commlink crackled, "Why have you not taken off?" Someone on the other end demanded. There was no answer, so the man apparently in charge of her guards said, "I don't know what's going on. There was shooting from inside the ship, but no one's answering comms."

The person on the other end swore. "More loyalists. They seem to be endless. I'll get reinforcements down..." it crackled off.

"Jammed," the trooper noted, but a moment later the ship seemed to rise and started out of the hangar.

Moments later another blaster could be heard, and this time the trooper with the commlink doubled over, collapsing to the ground at the impact. His partner fell a moment later. From down the corridor came another man in the white armor, but as he approached he asked, "Your majesty, are you all right?"

"What's going on?" Jammilia asked.

"We have a benefactor who's committed to Naboo remaining democratic," the man answered. "He got us through the security Amidala installed, and we've taken the ship. We still have some allies out in the world."

"Who?" Jammilia asked, "And where are we going?"

"The Gungans will still work with you," he answered. "And our benefactor is flying the ship. If you will come with me."

Jammilia nodded, following. The ship's cockpit was empty save for a single zabrak, who wore a modified version of the armor of the Naboo army. "My lady," He said with a deep voice.

"Who...who are you?" Jammilia asked.

"Officially, I am no one," he answered. "I'm not even here." He shifted, and she could see a lightsaber at his waist.

"A Jedi?" she asked, a bit excited.

He nodded, "Correct. Dispatched here some time ago. I arranged your escape previously. I had hoped to keep my involvement a secret, but unfortunately there is no more time for that. There is very little time left, and I'm afraid we will be intercepted on our way to the destination. You should be ready to evacuate the ship quickly, I do not believe the starfighter forces will allow our passage lightly."

As he said that there was a crackle of the comm as Qui-Gon Jinn's voice said, "Royal starcruiser, what is going on, you were ordered to follow us into orbit. What's the meaning of this course change?"

The zabrak leaned away from the comm system as one of the Naboo personnel flicked the comm, "Loyalist forces have taken the ship, and we will not allow the planet to fall without a fight. The Queen will remain here until she is properly restored."

"That is impossible," Qui-Gon protested. "I gave my word to Queen Amidala that if Jammilia was allowed passage and spared that the Jedi would prevent further contest of the throne."

"You had no right to agree to such terms," Jammilia snapped. "I am the elected queen, and I will not give up this world so easily. As rightful queen of Naboo I will fight for the people if that is necessary."

There was silence for a moment, then Qui-Gon said, "We will not assist you, and I will inform Amidala of your actions. Your ship will be destroyed."

"We will take the risk," the loyal soldier answered, then turned the comm off.

"The Jedi are breaking away," the zabrak noted. "They are transmitting a message back to the palace. Ready the weapon emplacements." He turned to the queen and said, "And you need to get to the escape pods. I'll join you momentarily. We've already selected a spot to land when we evacuate the ship."

"They've done what?" Amidala demanded as the Jedi's transmission came through.

"It seems loyalist elements infiltrated the queen's ship and seized control," Qui-Gon explained. "I do not know what their aim is."

"I knew this would happen," she said. "I meant what I said Jedi, I will hold you and your order responsible for this." She punched the controls on the throne, then said, "Scramble all fighters. Shoot down the royal cruiser."

There was a flurry of acknowledgements, and a few minutes later fighters began swarming out of the primary base. Luke's Actis was in the lead, and as Amidala watched the developing situation several of her fighters were shot down, but soon the cruiser was in flames. It crashed minutes later, just 100 miles outside of Theed.

She breathed a sigh of relief. It look like this might finally be over, she thought. That hope was dashed a minute later when Luke announced, "I think some of the escape pods got away. Find them."