Vader stands at the entrance to a repulsorpod, shrouded in shadow. There are a couple senators and aids sitting in the pod before him, clearly uncomfortable with his presence, but he could care less. He chose this pod for its view of the senate chamber, not for the system it represents - whichever system that is. His arms crossed, he watches intently as the diplomats argue and debate, although his attention is held by two senators in particular. Across the room sit Padme and Bail Organa side by side in her pod, a detail of Vader's loyal men by her side for security. He frowns as Organa leans in and whispers something to her.
Padme had introduced a petition to the floor requesting emergency relief funds for Naboo and the other worlds in her sector that have been severely affected by rebel activity. Although the rebels are blamed for the state of her homeworld - Padme had essentially argued it's really the Empire that is to blame. Trade routes, blockades, and even the occasional bombardments of perceived rebel insurgents have been wreaking havoc on the Chommell sector.
Senator Kestos Minor currently addresses the chamber on behalf of the Kwymar Sector in the outer rim. They listen to him lament he is unable to support the petition - even going so far as to suggest it would be a waste of money.
Vader watches with interest as Organa gives Padme a knowing look, the way people do when they're about to suggest something they're not going to like. Before Organa is even able to open his mouth, Padme shakes her head, seemingly refusing to entertain the suggestion before he even says it.
The two senators sit side by side in relative silence, watching one after another senator say much the same. Each senator weighs in on the situation, and the story is much the same - they are troubled by the events happening on Naboo and its nearby worlds, but they are not willing to impart the funds that would be necessary to provide any sort of relief thinking the effort would be too draining and provides no solution. It is to the benefit of the Empire, but it wholly confirms why Vader hates the Senate. The senators arguing against granting relief to Naboo aren't worried about the crisis on Naboo - just the credits. They pretend to care about each other, but in the end they only care for their own greed.
A Muun representative of the Banking Clan takes his repulsorpod out into the chamber and addresses them all as Padme watches attentively. "The Senator from Naboo asks for financial aid to relieve the burden of rebel activity in their sector. I believe we all suffer from buddening rebel activity in all our sectors, but it would seem their sector is experiencing a greater insurrection. Perhaps what the Chommell sector needs is not aid, but rather more Imperial support. I motion for a full occupation of Naboo and the other worlds in the Chommell sector that are experiencing a rebel presence. Clearly, a blockade is not enough."
Interesting… Clearly, the Banking Clan has something up their sleeves for this is the sort of situation where they would benefit the most, drowning borrowers in an excessively high interest rate - or they're acting at the behest of his Master, the Banking Clan's overseer.
Organa must recognize that Padme must confront the motion set by the Muun for he retreats from her pod. As soon as Organa leaves, Padme gracefully maneuvers her pod out into the open and addresses the chamber. "I contest this motion. An Imperial presence on Naboo will only do further harm. I ask the Senate to give me a week to reevaluate Naboo's options. I move to adjourn the Senate on this issue until I return."
Unacceptable. What a thinly veiled deception... She will try to leave alone, he knows her well enough. Vader's arms fall to his side and he takes a menacing step forwards, but there is nothing he can do. The delegation in the pod before him startle at his sudden movement, clearly uncomfortable.
Unfortunately Palpatine is not here, but the Grand Vizier is present in his stead - a look of disapproval clear on his face that mirror's Vader's under his mask. Will he tell her she can not leave Coruscant? He must! Padme holds the Grand Vizier's gaze, soliciting him to out himself and the Emperor to the Senate and to outright reveal their corruption. Of course, it's no secret everyone thinks the Emperor and his regime are corrupt - if by corruption they mean the Emperor holds true and final power - but the Empire likes to accomplish their deeds under the guise of a benevolent and heroic regime. It helps to keep the masses obedient when they think they have a say. "I see no reason to not adjourn for a week," the Grand Vizier gives in, cornered by their own duplicity into allowing the request. "But you will continue to be under the protection of Lord Vader who will act as your escort."
Hmm… Not exactly how he planned to spend the week, he had many other concerns to attend to - but if Padme had to go, he is glad it was clear he would have to join her.
Apparently, Padme has other plans, for she shakes her head. "I am afraid I cannot accept those terms. Lord Vader as an escort could easily be construed as an occupation by the Empire. That motion has, as of yet, been unratified. I will bring my own security detail - that will be protection enough."
What? No. The Grand Vizier can not allow this. He must be allowed to escort her.
Padme glares at the Grand Vizier, daring him to confront her publicly with the Senate as her witness. Reluctantly, and to Vader's great disapproval, the Grand Vizier relents, "very well. The Senate will adjourn and revisit this issue in a week." With that, he hammers his gavel and the session ends.
Vader resists the urge to light his saber and decapitate the senators sitting before him in a fit of rage. Instead, he pivots and stomps away, his cape billowing behind him. This feels less like a reaction to the situation by Padme, than a carefully orchestrated maneuvering to evade his oversight.
Firm swift steps lead him to Padme's wing. He brushes past the receptionist who attempts to help him, but he ignores her. Inside Padme's office, he waits with his arms on his hips as he slowly looks around. Distaste washes over him as his eyes land on a gungan statue.
"Vader…"
His head swivels towards Padme who has just entered the room.
"I forbid you to go to Naboo."
Her eyes narrow on him. "You can't. I have the permission of the Grand Vizier, who speaks for the Emperor."
"And I speak for you. You will stay here, that - is final," he dictates harshly.
Padme lowers her eyes as she fiddles with the fabric of her dress. "Vader, I can't do that. My people need me and I can help them. I owe it to them, it's my responsibility." She takes a few hesitant steps towards him and settles a soothing hand on his forearm, looking up at him as she does so. "If it's rebels… I need to investigate for myself."
"So you can join them, again?"
She shakes her head. "No! So I can stop them."
"Let the Empire handle it."
A frown falls on her face. "That's exactly what I am trying to avoid. The Empire is killing my people."
"The Empire is saving your people, only a firm hand will rid Naboo of rebels."
"Diplomacy will save my people. Let me try, I know I can save them."
Vader lets his head fall to the side, looking away from Padme as he thinks it over. "Fine. But I am sending my men with you."
"No stormtroopers, Vader. This is a diplomatic mission. Naboo has their own guard, you can trust them."
"It is you I don't trust." Vader pulls his arm away from her, pointing his finger at her. Her face falls, and a fleeting wave of guilt washes over him."You will be escorted by my men. That is final," he decrees before leaving.
"No stormtroopers!" She cries out at his retreating form.
"I do not need stormtroopers to discover your treachories, but you will be protected." His voice is cold and calculating.
Her aids throw curious glances at him as he storms out of the wing. He signals to his men to follow and the others to leave them a wide berth. Let her play her games.
Padme falls into her chair, leaning back into it and closing her eyes. "Damn it," she sighs. Of course Vader just has to make this more difficult for her. If Vader's stormtroopers are escorting her, whoever is causing this hardship on Naboo will never trust her diplomacy - but she must try regardless.
Standing up, she walks over to the viewport and looks out on Coruscant. In the distance, she can make out the old Jedi Temple and a shiver runs down her spine. Part of her wants to run back to the apartment and grab the datastick, being away from Coruscant gives her the perfect opportunity to try to slip the datastick she found to the rebels there. But, who would she give it to? Surely Vader is tracking the ship. It would not be paranoia to believe he is having its communications monitored, and probably even actively surveilling passengers' conversations throughout the entire ship. Nowhere is safe. Now it is too late to pass the datastick to Senator Organa, not that she could without risking the exposure and lives of the Organas… and Leia. Same with Sola and her parents. No - she could not put them in that position. Unlike operatives in the resistance, they had not signed up for this kind of risk, nor would she ask them to. Naboo is already facing repercussions of rebel activity. If she were to give the datastick to someone there… The empire would be justified in a full scale occupation if her actions were discovered. The risk is too large, she'll have to bide her time for a more reasonable solution. The datastick stays.
She snaps back from her introspection, to face the problem in front of her. Vader took his men with him. If she gets out of here fast, she can avoid whatever reinforcements Vader might want as her 'security' escort. Not to mention, she should better get a move on in case Palpatine hears of her imminent departure and decides the Grand Vizier's permission to leave Coruscant should be rescinded. Could he do that? Yes, she decides. And he would find a way to make it sound legitimate.
With a swish of her robes she leaves her office and joins the preparations to leave Coruscant. She orders one of her aids to retrieve as much non-perishable food as he can. Including at least a couple boxes of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats for her family.
"Meesa goin with yousa?"
Padme eyes Jar Jar in his burlap frock. The last thing she needs is Jar Jar messing up anything on Naboo. "No, Jar Jar, I need you to cover for me while I am gone. Make sure the Senate waits for my return." That should be a relatively easy task since the Senate will be on break for the week on all issues concerning Naboo.
"Yousa can countin on meesa, milady."
"Thank you, Jar Jar."
Padme notices her head of security enter, he approaches her with a bow. "My lady? We're waiting on fuel and Sabe to return with your luggage, but the ship is ready to board."
"And food."
"Excuse me, my lady?"
"I sent one of my aids to retrieve some food. I know we can't fit enough to make a difference, but it will mean something to some, at least." Padme looks at the chrono. It looks like she will still be able to get off Coruscant before Vader's stormtroopers can catch up to them. "Captain Typho - I'll follow you, we leave the moment we can."
"Yes, my lady."
Every step she takes, Padme has to control herself not to rush and maintain a dignified pace behind Captain Typho. At last they reach the Nubian starship, its chrome exterior shining proudly on the platform.
Once inside, Padme goes to the cockpit where Typho is making sure the ship is in order before takeoff. Padme sits down in the co-pilot's chair and makes some adjustments to the ship's dials. Typho looks at her, Padme can see the concern in his eyes. "I need to keep my mind busy, maybe flying will help."
"She's all yours, my lady."
Padme nods solemnly, unable to muster up a smile before returning her attention to the console.
It feels like hours, but only minutes have passed when Sabe finally enters the cockpit. "We're ready, my lady."
"The food?"
"That too," Sabe confirms.
A sigh of relief escapes her lips. Still no sign of Vader's stormtroopers and the ship has finished refueling. She takes the ship into the air and exits the system. When they're in hyperspace, Padme finally relaxes. At least now she doesn't have to worry about explaining stormtroopers as a part of her entourage when she arrives on Naboo.
"Let the Queen know we are on our way and then shut down the transceiver," she instructs Typho.
If he thinks her instructions are strange, he keeps it to himself. "Yes, my lady."
With nothing to do, Padme leaves the cockpit and is immediately confronted by Sabe.
"My lady, are we really going to Naboo?"
"What do you mean?"
Sabe looks at her like she thinks it should be obvious. "Vader's guards - they're gone. We can help you escape."
"There is no escape, Sabe. The ship is being tracked. Regardless, Naboo needs us and I will not leave the Queen to handle it on her own." Sabe purses her lips. "She's being set up, this is beyond her," she adds.
"Then let's deal with Naboo and get a message out, my Lady. Maybe I can contact someone that can help you, Vader won't have anyone there to stop me."
Padme grabs her by the shoulders. "Do not ever believe he is not watching. For every informant Vader places in plain sight, there are more in the shadows that you will never know are there. Not just on me, but you, Captain Typho, anyone that is connected to me or might be. Even on Naboo, I would exercise extreme caution."
"The Queen's subjects are loyal to her," Sabe argues.
Padme shakes her head at Sabe's naivety. "As loyal as the people of Naboo can be, the Empire excels at finding weak spots and even the most trusted can become his informant. Even when you are alone, consider the rooms bugged."
Sabe blanches, "Do you think he heard us… the other night when you told us about… ?" She looks around the ship and covers her mouth. "Are we … right now?"
Padme covers her face with her hands feeling overwhelmed by it all. Maybe she is being paranoid. "Better to assume the worst. But, no - I don't think… I don't know. Surely he would have confronted me about it."
They reflect on it silently, each lost in their own thoughts. Sabe offers her a comforting hand, and it helps to calm her nerves.
The next day they arrive on Naboo, Padme makes a smooth landing on the Palace's landing pad and they exit the starship where they are met by a royal delegation. Her comm buzzes, presumably just now connecting to Theed's communication tower and letting her know she got a message, which she ignores.
"Hello Senator," a royal handmaiden greets her. "If you're ready now, my Queen is eager to see you. She understands if you'd like to settle in first, in which case I can show you to your rooms." Padme looks past the royal handmaiden, where she sees two familiar faces. Padme's head tilts ever so slightly and her breath hitches. The royal handmaiden frowns. "The security detail you sent ahead for, Senator..."
How? "Eliza? Jet?" At least they aren't dressed as stormtroopers. In fact, the way they are dressed they could easily pass as part of her Nubian senator guard - minus any official insignias. One might just think they are low-key semi-undercover - which funny enough they are, except they are undercover for the Empire and not her… more specifically Vader. Remembering herself, and the complications of an Imperial escort, she tries to explain away her surprise at seeing them. "I didn't realize you were so much further ahead than us."
Eliza seems to know not to give herself away as a stormtrooper for she responds in kind. "Yeah, um… our ship wasn't too far away when we got our orders - from you..."
"I'm glad you could make it…" No she's not. It bothers her that no matter what she does, Vader always gets his way. Of course, part of her is happy to see her friends, but... are they still her friends? Because right now they feel like Vader's spies. And that's what makes her uneasy about it all, the happiness to see the two of them again is overshadowed by the reason they are here - by who ordered them here. Can she even trust them?
The handmaiden looks between the three of them none the wiser, any subtext completely going right over her and her companions' heads. "So should I take you to see Queen Apailana now?"
"Yes, please." Padme's answer is solemn and direct, she has no time to waste on settling in and freshening up - time is of the essence. Luckily, her travel outfit won't be out of place to visit with the Queen. She's wearing a thick blue tinted metal headband and loose curls cascade down her back from a bun/ponytail. The color of the headband matches the color of her simple and form fitting silk dress with an exposed back which is hidden behind an almost white-grey hooded velvet cloak. But, to be honest, she could go in bearing her entire midriff as the women of Naboo aren't shamed into covering their bodies. Rather, they are liberated to celebrate them without fear of being marginalized or sexualized.
The royal handmaiden guides the group to the throne room. On the way, Padme takes out her comm and checks the message she received just moments ago and sees that it's from Vader. Not bothering to open it, she deletes it before reading it.
When they arrive at the throne room, they bow for their young monarch. The Queen stands and addresses her. "Rise, Senator. It pleases me greatly to see you alive and here to help us. I'm afraid the monarchy does not have the power it once had, but I will try to do the best I can to assist."
"Yes, I heard of Moff Quarsh Panaka. You have more power than you think, and more knowledge than you know, my Queen. I was hoping you could share with me what has been happening. I am afraid…" Padme looks around, wondering if Moff Panaka has a spy. Just in case, Padme changes course. "My Queen, could I have a private audience?"
The Queen clears the room and it is just the two of them, now. Padme approaches the Queen so they can speak in more hushed tones. "I don't think I trust Moff Panaka. I need to know what is happening from you. Is this really the work of rebels?"
"It seems so… but we have our doubts. The Empire will destroy a village, or bomb a building claiming rebels - but whenever I send someone to investigate - we can find no evidence of rebel activity. The only one who has ever brought any evidence has been Moff Panaka. It is hard for me to trust him as well. And harder still for me to believe someone who served the monarchy so loyally could be killing his own people..."
"He might not believe he has another choice. This Empire has blurred the lines of right and wrong across the galaxy." Padme looks away from the Queen, rubbing her arm uncertainly. "I have less than a week to find evidence that would convince the Senate for aid. If… If I cannot find evidence that will convince the Senate - I'm afraid we will be on our own… or worse." Padme pauses, balancing the many ways their dilemma could unfold. "My worst fear is that we will find evidence - and we will not be able to bring it to the Senate." Padme reaches for the Queen's hand, "my Queen - if the Empire is behind this and I bring this to the Senate, even with proof, I am afraid the Emperor would find a way to destroy Naboo. He is a ruthless monster that would stop at nothing to maintain his power, even at the expense of his homeworld."
"I believe you are right - enough of the galaxy believes his lies… what chance would Naboo have? Pray, the Emperor is not behind this."
"Yet, to blame the rebels would be worse - for they are our only hope of a future free of him," Padme whispers. "We might need to prepare ourselves for the possibility that we will receive no aid from the Senate. In fact, currently they want a full occupation by the Empire."
"And lose all our autonomy?" The Queen shakes her head, not pleased with the Senate's intention.
"We might not have another choice. If the Empire is behind this, as I suspect, at least the bombings would stop, and the people will be fed."
"Naboo would rather fight and die, than give all remaining freedom to the Empire. You should know this."
"But they would live to fight another day, isn't that more important?" Any autonomy Naboo thought they had is long gone anyways, Padme thinks silently to herself.
Padme notices the young Queen become uneasy. "I think it might be time for Naboo to take a loan. If what you say is true, there might be no aid relief here, and the occupation by the Empire is not an option I am willing to consider." It's spoken under her breath, her attention focused on the mural of Naboo's landscape hanging large on the far wall.
"Who could we trust to borrow from? The InterGalactic Banking Clan is under Imperial jurisdiction." Padme's experience bleeds through, she's trying to be helpful, but the Queen does not like what she has to say.
"There are no other options, not reasonable ones," the Queen rationalizes.
"The Muuns are not known for being reasonable," Padme warns.
"I've seen you handle worse odds, Senator Amidala. You might find you can broker an agreement that benefits Naboo. If everything else fails, I trust you will explore this avenue."
"Yes, my Queen," Padme reluctantly yields to the Queen, skeptical the InterGalactic Banking Clan will be able to offer something herself or the Queen can agree to, despite the desperate need of Naboo. Worse, she's worried that very same desperation will provide them with no other option than to surrender to crippling terms. And if the Emperor finds out about their true motive for seeking a loan from the InterGalactic Banking Clan - as overseer of the banks, his influence could easily drown Naboo in debt, effectively rendering Naboo harmless. Destruction, death, and poverty would abound. "What we really need to do is find out what exactly is going on here. If it is not the rebels..." Padme reluctantly maintains eye contact with the Queen, feeling like a traitor to her rebel friends for even suggesting this. "Maybe what we need to do is prove that there was rebel activity on Naboo, and that we have dealt with it. Then the Senate might be more willing to send aid so Naboo can recuperate rather than suffer an Imperial occupation."
As much as she supports the rebellion against the empire and hates the idea of fabricating a darker side to them by blaming the destruction and current state of Naboo on the rebels, her people are in desperate need. Isn't the point of the rebellion to offer peace? And in a way… by using the rebels as a scapegoat, they would be accomplishing peace in Naboo and its sector... But even she knows this is wrong. She should not be sacrificing the reputation of the rebels when it is so important for the people of the galaxy to believe the rebels are fighting for them, not harming them. Rather, she would be endangering their cause in exchange for the lives of the people of Naboo. And it's exactly what she just told the Queen they must avoid. The rebellion is not supposed to endanger innocents, they are supposed to be freeing them. As it stands now - she would be telling the galaxy the rebels are causing death and destruction on a massive scale in her sector.
"I'm unaware of any rebel cells on Naboo," the Queen admits. "And if there aren't… what would we do? Sacrifice innocents and call them traitors? Execute them? Even if they were rebels - they have not done what the Empire says they have done. They would be innocent." The Queen turns fierce eyes on Padme. "I will not compromise Naboo's morals."
"Even to save the masses?"
"You are starting to sound like the Empire."
Padme feels like a bucket of ice water was thrown on her. Has she changed so much? What is wrong with her? "...You are right. Forgive me, your highness." Padme looks over at the Queen, shame filling her. "Moff Panaka... he said they are dealing with rebels on Naboo and the nearby planets. He has evidence, right? From the briefing he gave me - he always alluded to evidence, but never wrote it down."
"So he says," the Queen confirms. "What he shows us… we can never corroborate."
"So you've never seen what he says to be true?" The Queen shakes her head. "And we have absolutely no evidence, other than his?" The Queen nods and Padme frowns. "I don't believe Moff Panaka is misinformed… in fact, I think he knows the truth and-"
"He is doing the misinforming," the Queen finishes, deeply troubled.
They are both troubled. Why would Panaka do such a thing? He seemed to genuinely care for Naboo. What good would obfuscating the truth provide? They are on the same team, they both want what is best for Naboo and the Chommell sector. His loyalty to the Emperor couldn't possibly trump his love of Naboo?
"I must see him," she tells the Queen. She must confront Moff Panaka and discover the truth for herself, and for Naboo. It might be their only hope.
"Before you leave - a representative of the Banking Guild will be coming tomorrow and I would like you to start negotiations with them."
Padme's eyes widen, "but we don't even know what is going on… we might not need to."
"But, we might. And every day, more people die. We should explore this avenue in case Moff Panaka results in a dead end."
"Very well, your highness. I will see what I can do," Padme agrees to Queen Apailana's request.
The Queen calls in her handmaidens. "They will show you to your rooms."
"That is very generous, the others with me will appreciate the accommodations, but I must decline for myself. My family lives nearby and I would like to stay with them."
"Ah… yes. Of course you would. It's been a while since you've seen them." The Queen walks over to the window, even from here it is obvious Theed has seen hard times. Billows of black smoke wisps in the distance, the type of smoke that rises from destruction, not a warming hearth. "You might not like what you see, but if they live nearby - it should be safe. Just do not wander too far off. I will have my guards escort you for safe measure - Theed is not what it used to be."
Padme thanks her and bows her head in respect before leaving the throne room where she reconvenes with her handmaidens that had waited for her outside.
"We will stay here another day, the InterGalactic Banking Clan is coming tomorrow. I am going to stay the night with my parents," she tells her handmaidens.
"Would you like us to come along?" Sabe asks, concern obvious in her voice even though she tries and fails to keep it from her face.
"It's okay Sabe, the Queen is sending her royal escort with me. Also, I need you three to prepare for the Banking Clan's arrival."
"Yes, my lady." Sabe answers for them.
The Queen's handmaiden escorts her own handmaidens to their rooms and Padme walks with Captain Typho while the two undercover stormtroopers trail behind them.
Captain Typho leans in and whispers in her ear, gesturing at the two stormtroopers, "who are they?"
"They're Vader's," Padme replies under her breath.
Captain Typho's eyebrows rise, his eyepatch shifting with the movement and he throws a distrustful glance at the pair before focusing ahead, grunting his disapproval. "Well, at least he didn't send stormtroopers."
Oh, yes he did, she thinks to herself.
Outside the palace they're met by a squad of the Queen's royal guard, the leader of the squad walks up to her. "I'm Captain Bailex. We have a speeder on the way, it should be here any moment."
Padme shakes her head. "It's alright, I'd like to walk." When the guard looks at her with uncertainty, she adds, "it's not that far." As much as she'd like to be reunited with her family and see them faster, the walk would help ground her. She has a lot to think about and so many ways the next few days could go wrong.
He nods his head and instructs his men to take position. A couple run ahead to act as sentry while another two drop behind and flank them.
Padme looks over at Captain Typho, "could you grab the food from the ship that we brought for my parents?"
"Of course, my lady. I will meet you there."
Despite the somber surroundings, Padme breathes deeply. The crisp fresh air of Naboo still smells like home, the faint sound of waterfalls in the distance can be smelled in the air, but even here it is slightly marked by the fires in the distance. As she leaves the palace grounds, her nose wrinkles and she notices the trash and rubble that litter the cobblestone streets.
She fears for her homeworld, for her parents, for their future. She hugs her cloak closer to herself, the sun is dropping and a chill has swept over her. The shadows grow longer and each time they walk under an arch, the air drops a couple of degrees. They are close. The buildings become more familiar until she reaches her parents' townhouse. Her eyes travel along the old vine that hugs the side of their home, creeping into the arch that neighbors it. Her pace quickens, and her palms sweat as excitement wells within her. They're not expecting her, she should have told them she was coming, she realizes too late.
Padme walks up the steps, past the dying flowers in their pots that her mother has uncharacteristically neglected. Gently, she knocks on the slate blue door. When no one answers, she tries again, this time louder. She hears footsteps approach the door and the door opens a crack before bursting open.
"Padme?"
"Padme!" Her father exclaims, surprise and happiness washing over his face as he pulls her into a hug. "Come in, come in! Everyone come in." Her father motions towards her escorts.
Captain Bailex shakes his head, "we're here to guard, sir. Thank you for the kind offer."
"Except for us." Padme's eyes widen at Eliza's bold declaration. "We stay with her." Padme's eyes narrow as they brush past her and into the house. Part of her is hurt, she'd thought they'd formed a friendship on Vader's ship, but it is clear to her now they are loyal to Vader first.
Her father looks at her, catching the subtext of her distress even if she hasn't shared anything with him. "It's okay, they're with me," she tries to put him at ease, but she can see it does little to reassure him. He closes the door uneasily.
A feminine voice fills the room, "Ruwee, who is it?" Her mom steps into the foyer, "Padme…? Is that…? Padme! It is you!" Her mother rushes over to her and envelops her in a hug. "Oh Padme." Her mother holds her face in her hands to look at her better, tears filling her eyes before she holds her tightly in her arms again. "I'm so glad you're here," she sniffles. "It's so good to see you safe." When she thinks her mom is never going to let go, she finally does. "Are you hungry?"
"Starving."
"And your friends?" Her mother looks over at her 'friends' questioningly.
"They're my bodyguards, Eliza and Jet." Padme looks over at them and introduces her parents, "this is my mother, Jobal, and my father, Ruwee."
"They'll eat with us, too," her mother decides.
"I need to clear out your room," her father interjects.
"It's okay, I can do it," Padme volunteers.
"No, no, I've been storing all sorts of stuff in there. It won't take long, but I'll have to find what to do with it."
"Dad, it's okay. I'm only here for the night, I just need somewhere to sleep."
Her father shakes his head, before he starts to walk up the stairs. "I'll be back."
Her mother leads her into the kitchen, and Padme follows. "Sola went to get some fresh rations and should be back, soon. I have some broth simmering on the stove, we're just waiting on your sister. I'll throw whatever she brings into the broth, and we'll have a good meal - just don't expect anything fancy."
"I'm sure it will be fine. But, that reminds me - I sent Captain Typho to bring food we brought from Coruscant. He should be here soon, as well."
Her mom smiles at her, her eyes crinkling at the edges, "we're doing alright, Padme. Don't worry about us. There's others that need that food more than we do."
"Mom, please take it. I'd feel better knowing you're eating well. Especially the kids… they need it. Are they here?"
"Of course, it's not safe for them to leave. They're playing in the courtyard. Ruwee!" Her mother shouts. Her father pops his head in. "Bring the kids in, it's getting dark. Have them get ready for dinner," she smiles at him.
"Yes, dear." Just then the lights go out. "Another power outage," her father grumbles as he goes to collect the kids.
"Help me light the candles, Padme." Padme accepts a box of matches from her mother and they start lighting the candles around the house, some of which she has to replace as there's nothing left to light.
The front door opens and Sola enters with a canvas bag. "Mom, they didn't have much. But I did manage to pick up some fresh vegetables." Sola starts to take the vegetables out of the bag and onto the counter.
"Sola…"
"Yes, Mom?"
"Say hi to your sister."
Sola drops the vegetables that are in her hands and her head whips around, searching for her until she sees her. "I can't believe it!" Sola races over to her and embraces her. "Look at you! Oh Padme… Have you seen the kids?" Sola practically drags her upstairs where the kids are washing their hands in the sink. "Look who's here! It's Aunt Padme!"
They run over to her and practically tackle her to the ground, "Auntie! Auntie! We're so glad you came back to life!" The younger one, Pooja, practically shouts.
Padme looks over at her sister, "Sola, you didn't tell them?" She chides her older sister, hoping her sudden presence doesn't scar the children.
"No, we told them… they just saw your funeral, and don't really understand, is all."
"I do too! She only pretended to be dead," Sola's older daughter Ryoo contradicts her mother.
"You're so big, Ryoo. And you, Pooja, you're as big as your sister was when I visited last."
Pooja beams proudly, standing as tall as she can and Padme laughs.
The girls pull her to their room and show off their dolls, telling her about them and eventually getting lost in their imaginary world. Padme looks over at her sister, "I can't believe I missed so much. They're so beautiful Sola."
Sola looks at the girls, pride radiating from her. "They're my stars." They watch them play for a while, then Sola looks at Padme uneasily, "what about you… last time I heard…" Her sister makes a gesture imitating a large pregnant belly, "do you have a boy or a girl?"
Padme looks over her shoulders where Eliza and Jet are well within earshot. "I, uh." Padme coughs to clear her throat and shakes her head. "I had… a boy. He - he didn't make it," Padme repeats the lie she told Vader, and guilt fills her. She wishes she could confide in her sister - but she would never allow her family to take that risk, even if Jet and Eliza weren't there.
Sola reaches for Padme's hand, squeezing it gently. Why does it hurt so much?
"Dinner!" Their mother shouts from below.
The girls jump up and squeal, practically tumbling down the stairs in their excitement and Padme laughs.
They all shuffle into the dining room, their mother waving them over. "Come sit, you too," she gestures at Eliza and Jet who have thus far been silent shadows. They look over at Padme and she nods her head and they sit down at the table, albeit awkwardly.
They go around serving themselves, the soup more broth than anything else, even with the vegetables Sola was able to bring home, but it's good. It feels good to sit down with her family and share a meal. The girls finish their dinner in record time and ask to be excused, claiming they want to play some more before they have to go to bed. As they leave, Padme's mother goes to the kitchen and comes back with a bottle of wine and glasses.
Sola looks at Padme from across the table, "last time you were here, you had a bodyguard with you as well. This time you have two."
"And more outside, it's just a precaution" Padme adds, trying to normalize the situation. "The Queen sent them with me."
"So it's just because of Naboo?" Her sister prods.
Padme frowns, "what are you trying to say, Sola?"
"Nothing, it's just... I heard you were staying with that black masked-"
"Sola." Her father reproves his daughter.
"What? No one else is saying anything about it." Sola casts her attention on Padme, again. "Why'd you go into hiding anyways?"
"Sola!" This time it's both her mother and father that reprove her.
Padme shifts uncomfortably in her chair, her food forgotten. "It's okay. After… after the Jedi purge, my connections - they required me to go into hiding. The Empire found me, and they wanted to keep me close."
"It could have been worse," her mom observes.
Padme nods, not really wanting to talk about it. Of course, Sola, being the older sister she is, doesn't know when to quit. "Why wasn't it… worse?"
"I guess they think I know something."
Sola shakes her head, "this doesn't make any sense."
Padme agrees with her, "no… it doesn't. I don't know what to tell you. But I'm just glad I'm not rotting in a cell or worse…" Her mother chokes a bit on the soup she's sipping and Padme checks on her. Jobal has never been happy with the risks Padme has taken, after her term as queen ended, her mother had been relieved only to find out she would serve as senator. If it were up to her mother, she would be out of politics completely - a long time ago.
"Instead, you're a Senator," Sola looks at her suspiciously, "did you… join them?"
Now that's too far, "what?! No!" Padme points her spoon at Sola, emphasizing her next words with it. "You know me better than that."
Sola looks sheepish, "I'm sorry, I know you've been through a lot. I guess - I'm just worried you're being used. The Empire..."
"I know. And I feel the same way, but there's nothing I can do about it."
Sola perks up, almost pouncing on her, "so you do think they're using you?"
Padme risks a glance at her 'bodyguards' who she notes are watching the exchange with interest. "I'm tired, I think I'll retire for the night," Padme announces as she gets up from the table. Her parents glare at Sola, but no one tries to stop Padme. Before she leaves she helps pick up the empty dishes from the table.
Jobal stands up and helps Padme. "I'm afraid we only have one spare room," she informs Eliza and Jet. "But I'll set up a cot so you won't have to share a bed."
"A cot would be great, thank you," Eliza graciously accepts. "But I'll stay with Padme in her room."
"Oh," Jobal lets out, glancing at Padme questioningly as Padme frowns at Eliza. "Is that okay, Padme?"
"I'm afraid I must insist," Eliza doubles down.
"It's okay," Padme quickly interjects, unwilling to let this escalate. The less her parents know, the better. Sola, of course, is watching the exchange suspiciously. Padme walks off, unwilling to engage with her sister again and her father goes to get Eliza's cot.
It's not long before the house is quiet and Eliza and Padme are settled in her room, the lights off, and bundled in blankets. The power is still out and the house is cold. Padme rolls over onto her side towards Eliza's cot.
"Are you spying on me?"
"I'm here to protect you."
"And spy on me."
Eliza lets out a frustrated sigh, "maybe. He told me to never leave you alone and to report back."
She doesn't need to be told who 'he' is. Padme shifts onto her back again. "Would you really betray me to him?"
The covers rustle around Eliza and Padme can make out her outline in the darkness, she's propped up on one arm, facing her. "Padme - well, I guess it's my lady now, or Senator I suppose… Your husb- Nope. Can't call him that. That's too weird... Lord Vader, is a legend."
"He's a monster."
"Then you've never seen him in action."
Padme looks away from her. "More than you know."
"You fought with him? I know you can shoot, but you don't look like much of a fighter - and well… I've never heard of anyone hanging around Lord Vader. He's always been... a solo guy."
"Before the Empire, when I was a Senator and he fought for democracy, not tyranny."
"He was a Jedi, wasn't he? It makes sense. He fights like one, you know? At least - how I imagine they did from the stories. He respects us… well, at least the ones under his command. He's always the first into battle, providing what protection he can to his troops. Once, I heard he even shielded them from a detonator's blast."
Padme sits up and faces Eliza. "Eliza, you must never let him know you know this. Everyone who knows - they're dead. I shouldn't have said anything."
"Relax. I'm not stupid. The man clearly has trauma, but… You know… he cares."
Padme rolls her eyes and lays down again. For a while, they're silent. "Eliza… did he make you part of the First Legion?"
"No… but maybe I actually have a chance now, thanks to you. If I could just prove to him I'm good enough… It's been my dream."
Well, Eliza has all but said she would do anything for Vader and obviously can't be trusted. "Innocent blood will be on your hands," Padme whispers into the dark.
Eliza hears her and disagrees, "not innocent. The Empire brings peace and order. That's what I help bring."
Padme gives up, there's no point in trying to convert a fanatic, she's learned. She rolls over and bundles up into her comforter. "Good night," she whispers to her once upon a time friend, however brief it was.
"Good night, my lady."
As she falls into a fitful sleep, Padme wonders what happened to Captain Typho.
Is he okay?