Chapter Two: "Dangerous Acquaintances"

I couldn't deny the attractiveness of the Senator who visited the school today. I had been previously aware a couple of representatives from the Republic Applications Committee were coming, but she was nothing like I had imagined. Generally, I'd found most politicians to be overbearing, self-centered, verbose, and annoying.

Miss Amidala was none of those things. Her dark eyes revealed intelligence, her skin was smooth and pale, and her hair was long, dark, and curled, as was my preference. She seemed young to hold such an important position, which meant she either was very good at her job, well respected, or had important ties. In any case, I suspected her elevation wasn't by accident.

Most importantly was the fact that during her visit, I had caught her glancing at me a few times. Her gaze never lingered though, and as soon as I noticed it, she would quickly divert her attention elsewhere. What was she thinking about? Could it possibly be me?

'Get real, Kenobi,' I advised myself. She is so out of your league! She was obviously wealthy, which was evident by the extravagant gown she wore, as well as the sparkling baubles about her neck. How could she possibly be interested in a man who could barely afford three meals in a single day?

I couldn't overlook her kindness, though. It was one virtue that was sorely absent in this city. Everyone was either looking out for themselves or what they could get out of someone else. Rarely, had I met a truly honest and giving individual. At least not in this town.

Sillobu was different. There, everyone was happy and content with their lives, which had a direct impact on their attitudes and general well-being. We had all looked out for one another and helped out whenever we could. I would've gladly lived there the rest of my days if it hadn't been for the accident.

I wondered sometimes if bad things happened just in order to divert one's current path. Perhaps my true happiness lay elsewhere. I just hadn't discovered it yet.

I had never been much of a daydreamer, but during the visit, I indulged in a few. While the representative from Alderaan went on and on about his interest in droid engineering, I wondered what it would be like to have a woman like Miss Amidala in my life. To come home and enjoy witty and intelligent adult conversation and wake up to see her beautiful face every day.

Once recovered, I had to face the fact that such a gift would most likely never be given to me. Who would want to live in a wretched place such as Mihon? Not even the people who lived here wished to, and most would do anything to escape. There was something that tied them to this place, though I suspected it was nothing worth the sacrifice. Wealth obtained illegally held little true value and everyone else was too poor to alter their current situation.

I was dedicated to changing all that and determined I would do best by influencing the citizens here at an early age.

The visitors were kind and seemed interested in the school, though their stay wasn't nearly long enough. I would've liked to have spent more time with the Naboo Senator; learn more about her personal beliefs and philosophies, and well...just look at her. Perhaps another time, although I sadly realized our paths would likely never cross again.

"Thank you for all you do here," she mentioned kindly after I'd escorted them both back to their shuttle. "I believe you are truly making an impact and the evidence of that will be revealed in time."

"Thank you for understanding," I told her genuinely while extending my hand. I generally didn't offer such a farewell to off-planet visitors, but I had the strongest urge to touch her. She didn't seem surprised or offended and accepted my offer graciously, even smiling during the contact.

The lingering handshake may have become awkward for others, but I didn't care. It was a memory that would help cheer me during difficult times.

When I finally manage to pull my hand away and extend it to Senator Organa, a silent alarm sounded in my brain. It was similar to the time when the overlook collapsed into the river. I had a bad feeling something tragic was about to occur, although I wasn't sure what exactly or from where.

Before I could pinpoint the source of trouble, a ragged-looking youth stepped out from behind the shuttle, grabbed Senator Amidala by the throat, and pressed a blaster pistol to her head.

"I don't want any trouble," the young man said, although I sensed otherwise. His type of clothing represented a local gang and he could really use a sonic. His hands were shaking and his eyes and nose were red-rimmed; all signs of spice addiction. Most likely he had reached a point of desperation and couldn't be trusted to make a decision that would secure the young woman's safety. I had to do something to help.

"Corvin," I spoke softly in low tones so as to not irritate him. "Corvin Albrach."

Through bloodshot eyes, the attacker gazed at me, finally acknowledging recognition with a nod of his head. "Mr. K. I don't mean nobody no harm. I just need some funds. Those mud scuffers are gonna kill me if I don't pay! You get me?"

"I understand," I calmly replied. "Just let the young lady go and we can talk about ways to help you."

The young man chuckled deep within his throat as another tremor rippled through his body. "Ain't nobody can help me! I know you tried, Mr. K, but you got no idea what it's like out there. After mama died, I didn't have nobody but the Fangs. They're the only ones who ever helped me."

It was a common misconception. Whenever a kid lacked family, gang members were an inadequate and dangerous replacement.

"The Fangs are the ones responsible for me being alive today! Don't you get that? They're all I got!"

Corvin punctuated each syllable of his last words by pouncing the barrel of the weapon into Miss Amidala's temple. The young woman had stayed relatively calm, although she was understandably frightened.

"Then take me instead," I offered, which opened the Senator's eyes though lowered her brows with concern. "I'm sure there are plenty of members who hold a grudge against me and would like a little taste of revenge."

For a second or two, the young man appeared to think over my proposition, until he began shaking his head negatively. "Mr. K you ain't got no funds! I don't need you! Look at her! You can tell she gots credits! She comes from a family with plenty and they'll pay to get her back."

"Son, let her go," Senator Organa spoke up, although I wish he hadn't. His added voice only seemed to aggravate Corvin's fragile state.

"Shut the hell up! Both of you!" he screamed while Miss Amidala flinched.

I held my hands up in a calming gesture. "It's okay. Everything's going to be okay," I said softly. "But since this young woman is my friend, I insist you take me with her. I'm coming along," I told him firmly. "And I won't take no for an answer."

Corvin chewed on his lip for a moment while he weighed his options. "Have it your way Mr. K. Maybe Suds will go easier on me if I bring him a new punching bag."

I had no idea what I was doing. I just didn't want the Senator to go with him alone. When we got to wherever he was taking us and took that blaster off her head, then I'd figure something out. I hoped.