A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away...

There is unrest in the Galactic Senate. Several thousand solar systems have declared their intentions to leave the Republic. This separatist movement, under the leadership of the mysterious Count Dooku, has made it difficult for the limited number of Jedi Knights to maintain peace and order in the galaxy.

Senator Amidala, the former Queen of Naboo and current ambassador to the United Federation of Planets, is returning to the Galactic Senate with Ambassador Serak of Vulcan to vote on the critical issue of creating an ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC to assist the overwhelmed Jedi and to finalize Naboo's entry into the United Federation of Planets…

Xxx

Coruscant, the capital of the Galaxy, came into view, as a shining starship and two smaller guard ships approached. Behind the ship was a red pointed ship with a red ring around the hull. This was an old design used by the Vulcans but now it was more of a personal transport for important dignitaries.

Aboard the Senator's Ship, two guards approached her. "Senator, we're making our final approach into Coruscant."

"Very good, Lieutenant."

They made their way through a layer of fog, and then landed safely on a landing platform amongst the flying traffic and tall skyscrapers.

The pilots of the guard ships got out first, and one took his helmet off, watching the Senator gets off the larger spacecraft. "We made it. I guess I was wrong. There was no danger at all."

Just as the Senator got off her ship, it exploded. Debris fliew everywhere and the guards rushed forward. The other guard took off her helmet, and was revealed to be the real Senator. The other was a decoy for protection.

Sen. Padmé Amidala rushed to her decoy, gathering her in her arms. "Cordé!"

The woman slowly opened her eyes and gasped weakly. "My lady… So sorry… I've failed you Senator…"

"No…" Padme whimpered.

Cordé rolled onto her side, dead.

The other guard, Captain Typho approached. "My lady, we're still in danger here."

Padme stood up, staring at Corde's body. "I shouldn't have come back."

"This vote is very important. You do your duty; Cordé did hers, now come." Typho took a step but Padmé didn't follow. "Senator Amidala, Please."

A beam of light appeared near them and materialized into the form of Ambassador Sarek.

The Vulcan Ambassador looked at the destroyed ship and dead bodies, closing his eyes in mourning as he turned to Padme. "My condolences on your loss, Senator."

Padme only numbly nodded.

Xx

"…needs more security now!"

Padme had arrived at the Senate building in time to see Senators screaming at each other as she took her pod while Ambassador Sarek took a seat behind her. The current speaker was Senator Orn Free Taa of Ryloth, a fat blue skinned Twi-leck who happened to be one of the biggest supporters for the Military Creation Act.

"Must I remind the Senators that negotiations are still continuing with the Separatists?" Chancellor Palpatine said firmly. "Peace is our objective here not war."

As the senators shouted their response Padme took the initiative and maneuvered her platform out, moving past the others until it was near the center of the massive chamber. "My noble colleagues, I concur with the Supreme Chancellor! At all costs we do not want war!"

This was met with a series of cheers and applause from the many senators, even from Orn Free Taa and Senator Aak-Aak.

"It is great surprise and joy the chair recognizes the Senator from Naboo, Padme Amidala." Palpatine said happily.

The fact that so many were surprised to see her suggested they know about what happened with her ship on the landing platform. That was good as she could use it to her advantage right now.

"Less than an hour ago, an assassination was made against my life." She continued. "One of my bodyguards and six others were ruthlessly and senselessly murdered. I was the target but more important I believe this security measure before you was the target. I have led the opposition to build an army…but there is someone in this body who will stop at nothing to assure its passage."

This was met with some boos but Padme pressed on. "I warn you, if you create this army war will follow. I have experienced the misery of war firsthand; I do not wish to experience it again. Wake up, Senators! You must wake up! If we offer the Separatists violence, they can only show us violence in return!"

Her plea was met with a series of boos and groans from more Senators as Orn Free Taa spoke up. "My motion to defer to the vote must be dealt with first. That is the rule of law!"

As Padme glared at him, Palpatine decided to break up the argument. "Due to the lateness of the hour and the seriousness of this motion we will take up these matters tomorrow. Until then, the Senate stands adjourned."

Padme could not understand why the Chancellor would suddenly adjourn the meeting but a small message on her platform's computer indicated he wanted to meet her in his office. Perhaps she would have her answers there.

Xxx

Inside the Chancellor's building in his meeting room were six members of the Jedi Order and Chancellor Palpatine himself, having an important conversation. The six Jedi were Masters Yoda, Windu, Ki-Adi-Mundi, Luminara and her apprentice Barriss Offee.

"I don't know how much longer I can hold off the vote, my friends. More and more star systems are joining the separatists." Palpatine told them softly.

"If they do break away-" Windu began reluctantly.

"I will not let this republic that has stood for a thousand years be split in two. My negotiations will not fail." Palpatine interrupted confidently.

"If they do, you must realize that there aren't enough Jedi to protect the Republic. We're Keepers of the Peace, not soldiers." Mace Windu said, with Ki-Adi-Mundi nodding in agreement.

"Master Yoda." Palpatine said, catching the elderly Master's attention. "Do you think it will really come to war?"

Yoda closed his eyes in deep thought. "Worse than war, I fear."

"What?" Palpatine demanded.

"What do you sense, Master?" Mace Windu asked.

"The Dark Side clouds everything. Impossible to see, the future is." Yoda opened his eyes. "But do their duty, the Jedi will."

A Hologram Message popped up on the Chancellor's Desk, projecting a Rodian who spoke in Huttese. "The Loyalist Committee and the Ambassador from the Milky Way has arrived, your Honor."

"Good. Send them in." Palpatine said before hologram flickered out. "We will discuss this matter later."

The door opened, the Loyalists including Padmé and Sarek entered, while the Jedi exited.

"Senator Amidala… Your tragedy on the landing platform… terrible. Seeing you alive brings warm feelings to my heart." Yoda said with smile in direct response to the grief he sensed from her.

"Thank you, Master Yoda. Do you have any idea who's behind this attack?" Padme asked directly.

"Our intelligence points to disgruntled spice miners on the moons of Naboo." Windu answered.

"A bit extreme for disgruntled spice miners to try and assassinate a Senator." Sarek spoke up. "Would it not be more logical to assume that it would the work of someone who would be considered an enemy of Senator Amidala?"

"And who would you consider an enemy, ambassador?" Windu asked skeptically.

"Logically the Trade Federation, specifically its Viceroy would be the most likely suspect." Sarek answered, surprising the Jedi and the Senator. "I have been given to understand that they are currently in talks with joining the systems of this separatist movement. I have been informed by the Senator that the Trade Federation is still displeased that they were still forced to pay taxes and with their humiliation for their loss against the Enterprise and the Senator's bold freedom movement. The Senator has also told me that they have been in court for years. All of them she was present for."

"They are only looking for peace with the taxes on the trade routes." Windu said, sounding a little shocked by such a bold accusation. "They would not dare risk another scandal that would have their representative thrown out of the senate."

"I have to agree with Ambassador Sarek on that possibility but I think Count Dooku is behind it." Padme replied, surprising almost everyone. "I know that the Trade Federation and the commerce guilds have been stockpiling droids and weapons for a possible war."

"He's a political idealist, not a murderer." Ki-Adi-Mundi replied.

"You know, milady, Count Dooku was once a Jedi. He couldn't assassinate anyone: it's not in his character." Windu replied.

"In dark times, nothing is what it appears to be. But, for certain Senator, in grave danger you are." Yoda said.

Palpatine had taken the chance to get out of his chair and took a gaze out the window overlooking the city. "Master Jedi… may I suggest the senator be placed under the protection of your graces."

"Do you really think that's a wise decision under these stressful times?" Bail Organa asked.

"Chancellor," Padme spoke candidly. "If I may comment I do not believe-"

" …the situation is that serious." Palpatine finished for her. "No, but I do, Senator."

"Chancellor please, I do not need more guards!" Padme protested.

"I realize all too well that additional security may be disruptive for you. But, perhaps, someone you're familiar with. An old friend, like… Master Kenobi." Palpatine suggested with a smile and then looked inquiringly at Mace Windu.

"That's possible. He's just returned from a border dispute on Ansion." The Jedi Master answered.

"You must remember him, my lady." Palpatine continued. "He watched over you during the blockade conflict."

"Do it for me, milady, please. The thought of losing you… is unbearable."

Padme sighed but nodded.

"I'll have Obi-Wan report to you immediately, milady." Windu said gravely before he and Ki-Adi-Mundi rose to leave.

"Thank you, Master Windu."

Xxx

Padmé's temporary home was a tall, smooth building with an elevator that was running up the side, containing two people. Anakin straightened out his robes, looking nervous.

"You seem a little on edge." His Master, Obi-Wan Kenobi commented.

In the years since Naboo Obi-Wan had grown a beard to show his growth and maturity. Meanwhile Anakin had rather grown himself, actually growing taller than Obi-Wan.

"Not at all." Anakin replied, trying to sound confident.

"I haven't felt you this tense since… since we fell into that nest of gundarks."

Anakin scoffed. "You fell into that nightmare, Master, and I rescued you. Remember?"

"Oh… yes." Obi-Wan chuckled. "You're sweating. Relax. Take a deep breath."

"I haven't seen her in ten years, master."

The elevator stopped and they got off. They are approached by Jar-Jar Binks who had changed very little since they had last seen him aside from dressed in robes meant for diplomats rather than the scavenger outfit he wore before.

"Obi? Obi! Mesa so smilin' to seein' yousa." The Gungan said, giving Obi-Wan a deep hug.

"Good to see you again, Jar-Jar." Obi-Wan smiled in spite of himself.

"Senator Padmé! Mesa palos here. Lookie, lookie, Senator. Desa Jedi arriven."

Padmé walked over, and Obi-Wan bowed. "It's a great pleasure to see you again milady."

"It has been far too long Master Kenobi." She then looked to Anakin. "Ani? My goodness, you've grown."

"So have you. Grown more beautiful, I mean. Well, for- for a senator, I mean." Anakin stuttered a bit, feeling the disapproving glare Obi-Wan was giving him.

Padmé simple smiled. "Ani, you'll always be that little boy I knew on Tatooine. By the way, I have a message for your mother. Come by my quarters later and I'll show it."

Anakin seemed disappointed to hear the first part about him still being a little boy in her eyes but seemed elated about hearing a message from his mother as they all walked over to sit at two couches and a low table.

"Our presence here will be invisible, milady, I can assure you." Obi-Wan said, getting straight to the point.

A man in a Naboo captain's uniform spoke up. "I'm Captain Typho of Her Majesty's security service. Queen Jamilla has been informed of your assignment. I am grateful you're here, Master Kenobi. The situation is more dangerous than the Senator will admit to."

"I don't need more security, I need answers. I want to know who's trying to kill me." Padme said firmly.

"We're here to protect you, Senator, not to start an investigation." Obi-Wan said, frowning.

"We will find out who's trying to kill you, Padmé. I promise you." Anakin burst out.

Obi-Wan gave him another look. "We will not exceed our mandate, my young Padawan learner."

"I meant that in the interest of protecting her, Master, of course." Anakin quickly replied.

Obi-Wan shook his head. "We will not go through this exercise again, Anakin, and you will pay attention to my lead."

"Why?" Anakin persisted.

"What?"

"Why else do you think we were assigned to her if not to find the killer? Protection is a job for local security, not Jedi. It's overkill, Master; investigation is applies in our mandate." Anakin explained hastily.

"We will do exactly as the Council has instructed… and you will learn your place, young one." Obi-Wan said firmly.

"Perhaps with merely your presence, the mystery surrounding this threat will be revealed. Now, if you'll excuse me, I will retire." Padme said as all stand as she walked off.

"I know I'll feel better with you here. I'll have an officer stationed at every floor, and I'll be in the control center downstairs." Captain Typho said before leaving the room after the senator.

Jar Jar stopped and looked at Anakin. "Mesa bustin' with happiness seein' yousa again, Ani."

"She hardly even recognized me, Jar-Jar. I've thought about her every day since we parted. She's forgotten me completely." Anakin blurted out again.

Jar Jar blinked. "Shesa happy. Happier than mesa seein' her in a longo time."

Obi Wan cut in. "You're focusing on the negative, Anakin, be mindful of your thoughts. She was pleased to see us. Now, let's check the security."

Anakin followed Obi-Wan in one direction, Jar-Jar went in another.

Xxx

"With respect, Senator I find this plan of yours to be both reckless and illogical."

Padme turned to find Sarak at the door, watching with composedness one would find in a Vulcan. "Maybe but I want to know who is trying to kill me."

"Despite the seriousness of this assassination attempt you must not forget the reason you are here. Become too obsessed with tracking this assassin down and you risk being pushed away from your vote in the senate." Sarek reasoned. "Your opponents could use the argument that Coruscant is not safe enough for you at this time and suggest you be sent somewhere safe until the assassin has been found."

"That is why I choose this plan. If the Jedi catches the assassin we'll know who is trying to kill me." Padme replied, finishing her instructions to R2.

"And if they fail and the assassin escapes your own plot could be turned against you." Sarek pointed out. "Your plan hinges on the capability of the Jedi assigned to protect you and the competence of the assassin not able to account for the possibility of capture. As I said, reckless and illogical."

"And what would you have me do, Ambassador? Wait until the assassin comes to kill me?" Padme asked rhetorically. "How would a Vulcan handle such a situation?"

"A Vulcan would rely on those they trust without question to guard them at all times and focus on their duties. Your duty as a Senator is to represent your planet in both the Republic and as new member of the Federation, not to conduct your own investigation. It risks interference with the authorities and undermines your government's credibility. As I said, your opponents can use this in argument for your safety here on Coruscant." Sarek stated. "If they are successful in having you sent away, it's one less voice in the opposition to create a grand army for your Republic. Is the identity of whoever wishes you dead worth the risk?"

Padme turned away from Sarek. "If I am dead, there will one less voice for the opposition anyways. Besides, I have faith in Anakin and Obi-Wan's ability."

Sarek closed his eyes for a second. "There are times when your convictions remind me of She-Who-Is-My-Wife. She has similar views and there are times when I find my logic to be…uncertain around her."

Padme smiled a bit that, having met Amanda who happened to be the mother of officer Spock aboard the Enterprise and found her to be a lovely woman. She didn't need the Force to see how much the human woman loved her husband.

Xxx

Night has fallen. A green and yellow speeder is parked on the walkway of alarge, round building., and someone gets out: Zam Wessel- a hired assassin.

Zam met a strange figure- a bounty hunter clad in blue and gray armor. "I hit the ship but they used a decoy."

"We'll have to try something more subtle this time, Zam. My client is getting impatient. Here- take these." The Bounty Hunter held out a tube containing two wormlike beasts. "Be careful, they're very poisonous. Zam, there can be no mistakes this time."

Zam gave an absent nod as she walked back into her speeder with tube in her arm.

Xxx

"Why couldn't we see this attack on the Senator?"

Mace Windu voiced this question with his concerns as he and Yoda stood at the hallway at the of the Jedi Temple.

"Masking this future, is this disturbance in the Force." Yoda answered calmly.

Windu frowned. "The prophecy is coming true. The dark side is growing stronger."

"And who only those who have turned to the dark side can sense the possibilities of the future." Yoda nodded.

There was a moment of silence before Windu spoke again. "It's been ten years and the Sith have still not shown themselves."

"Out there, they are." Yoda nodded. "A certainty, that is."

Xxx

"Typho has more than enough men downstairs. No assassin would try that way." Obi-Wan said as he returned to the upper floor. "Any activity up here?"

"Quiet as a tomb." Anakin answered but then shivered at his own answer. |I don't like just waiting here for something to happen to her."

Obi-Wan nodded in agreement as he pulled out a small view screen. He could see R2 had powered down but couldn't see Padme. "What's going on?"

Anakin shrugged. "She covered the cameras. I don't think she liked me watching her."

"What is she thinking?" Obi-Wan shook his head.

"She programmed R2 to warn us if there is an intruder and he'll detect anything sneezing near her." Anakin pointed out.

Obi Wan was not satisfied though. "There are many other ways to kill a senator."

"I know, but we also want to catch this assassin, don't we, Master?" Anakin asked.

Obi Wan's eyes widened. "You're using her as bait."

"It was her idea." Anakin said defensively."Don't worry: no harm will come to her. I can sense everything going on in that room. Trust me."

"It's too risky." Obi-Wan frowned. "Besides, your senses aren't that attuned my young apprentice."

"And yours are?" Anakin asked challengingly.

Obi Wan glanced at him. "Possibly."

Xxx

Zam loaded the worm tube into a droid, which flew off.

Xxx

Anakin looked out on the balcony of the apartment.

"I understand Padme brought you messages from your mother." Obi-Wan stated.

Anakin looked surprised but nodded. "She's been handmaiden to the Queen of Naboo for the last ten years. Very happy."

"I suppose she would be compared to her life on Tatooine." Obi-Wan mused. "Naboo's become a bit of a hub between us and the Milky Way Galaxy. Merchants and smugglers have been pouring into the system since first contact and Naboo's petition for membership into the Federation. The United Federation of course."

"Padme mentioned that earlier when I was talking with her and Ambassador Sarek. She helped set up the colony for the refuges from Tatooine and has been vocal about securing trade between us and the Milky Way. The trade has only been in basics but if Naboo gains membership they could start getting up to date Federation technology. They already have the basic knowledge for warp drive." Anakin recalled. "A lot of people think Starfleet can help clean up certain planets that are still reeling from the old ways such as Taris and Mandalore. It's been talking to Padme. Just being around her again is… intoxicating."

"Be mindful of your thoughts, Anakin." Obi-Wan said sharply. "You have made a commitment to the Jedi Order, a commitment not easily broken. And don't forget, she's a politician, and they're not to be trusted."

Xxx

In Padmé's room, the next one over she was asleep in bed, R2 was there on guard, and Zam's droid was at the window. R2's sensors, enhanced by V'Ger activated and he spotted the droid.

"She's not like the other senators, Master." Anakin's voice replied.

"It is my experience that senators focus only on pleasing those who fund their campaigns. And they're in no means scared of forgetting the niceties of democracy in order to get those funds."

"Not another lecture Master…" Anakin groaned. "At least not on the economics of politics."

The droid flew closer to the window, and cut a circular hole in the glass with a laser. It opened the tube, releasing the large, poisonous worms, which scuttle around, keeping out of R2's sight and creeping closer to Padmé.

But R2 detected them and beeped in alarm.

Xxx

"And besides, you're generalizing. The Chancellor doesn't appear to be corrupt." Anakin continued.

"Palpatine is a politician. I have observed that he is very clever in following the passions and the prejudices of senators." Obi-Wan replied.

"I think he is a good man. But-" Anakin started but stopped.

"I sense it, too!" Obi-Wan said.

Both rushed into Padmé's room. Anakin jumped up onto her bed, ignited his lightsaber, and chopped the creatures in half. Padmé awakened and Obi-Wan saw the droid back away from the window. He jumped through the window, smashing the glass, and grab hold of the droid.

Dormé, Padmé's Handmaiden, rushes in as Anakin rushed out. "Stay here!"

Dormé knelt down in front of Padme. "Are you all right, milady?"