Place: Docking Bay, Corusant
I stood out of the way as droids began to load our ship with fresh supplies. I stood there waiting for Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon. As much as I had despised Obi-Wan a few moments ago, I hadn't been able to get his face out of my mind. It had been so full of shock at my outburst and at the same time, filled with betrayal. I shook his face out of my mind. I was sorry that he had been hurt, but I didn't regret the things I'd said. Finally I saw Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon walking down the ramp that lead to the ship. I took a step forward, thinking that perhaps the two were reconciling. But as they got closer, I could tell that they were doing exactly the opposite. After a few terse words from Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan set his mouth in an angry line and walked towards the ship. He caught a glimpse of me as I stood alone and he shook his head before entering the ship.
It was I that shook my head now. True, Obi-Wan had a right to be hurt, even upset with Qui-Gon, but it was no reason to take it out on me. But at the same time, if I had been him and I had gone up to me and yelled at me, I would certainly never want to see me again. That was all very confusing I'm sure, but still, you understand what I'm saying. The point is, he probably never wanted to see my face again. I had to talk to Qui-Gon about this. As I began to walk over to him, Anakin walked away, obviously pleased by something Qui-Gon had said to him.
"Master Qui-Gon, may I speak with you for a moment?" Qui-Gon looked down at me with a smile."Yes of course Elaina." He said reassuringly. "Master, well Master, I yelled at Obi-Wan." I blurted out. At that, Qui-Gon's eyebrows raised. "Oh did you?" He asked. I cast my eyes downward. "Yes Master. I said some, well, rather inappropriate things. I called him a spoiled brat." I looked at Qui-Gon. He had a suppressed smile on his face as he spoke. "Why did you say all these things to him?" He asked. "Because he was acting like a child because he was mad at Anakin and at you. For no reason." I protested. "He had his reasons. But not the right reasons. I do things that he doesn't understand." Qui-Gon sighed. "I can see that." I agreed. Then he looked at me. "You really yelled at him?" He asked. "Yes Master." I confirmed.
He shook his head and put his hand on my shoulder. "You have much to learn Elaina, but your heart is in the right place." He chuckled as we walked up the catwalk. Before we got to the ship, we looked behind us as the Queen approached. She walked towards us proudly, her head straight and erect, thoughtfullness echoing in her brown eyes. Qui-Gon waited for her to intercept us and he bowed as she approached. "Your majesty, it is my duty to continue to serve and protect you." He said loyally. She looked at him, and I felt her gratitude as well as her relief. "I welcome your help. Senator Palpatine believes that the Fedaration means to destroy me." She said, her voice void of emotion, but inwardly, her mind full of it. Qui-Gon nodded and helped her up the platform protectively. "I assure you that I will not allow that to happen." He said firmly. Before I entered the beautiful silver ship, I turned around and looked out over Corusant. If I wasn't able to become a Jedi, if I was to die on this mission, this would be my last look at this world. I wanted to treasure it. I looked around me, took in the sights and sounds, pressing it into my memory. It would never leave me. I could conjure it up whenever I wanted and relieve the same experience over again. I sighed and walked inside the ship, Jar Jar's sudden yell echoing behind me,"Wesa goin' home!"
Place: Naboo forest.
We have landed in the Naboo forest today. It is a beautiful place really. Very lush forests, thick with greenery and shrubs. Frankly I'm astonished by how much green there is. I was just getting used to the typical metallic gray of Corusant and now to be overpowered by this strong, alive color, it's really almost too much. It's like I've only had limited colors in my mind, yellow, gold, and brown, the basic colors of my homeworld. Don't get me wrong. I welcome the change. But it also does something to one. To me especially. I closed my eyes swiftly and my forehead creased as a vision assailed my thoughts. That boy, the pilot, he was walking around a forest. It seemed as though he was almost walking around this very forest, like I was a mere bystander. But I was there. His forehead was drawn together in anxiety. I felt his anxiety as he kicked at the dead leaves. Then the other, the boy with blonde hair, he surprised me as he ran up to the pilot. Really he was no longer a boy. Neither was the pilot. They were both men and had gone through many trials. I still heard nothing, but as I watched the two converse, one word slipped into my mind, spoken by the blonde haired man.
Han.
I creased my forehead as the vision ended. I couldn't think about this now. There was too much at stake. But still, the name echoed in my mind.
I haven't been able to speak with the Queen or Padme for that matter, but I have managed to figure out by word of mouth that the Queen means to ask the Gungans, Jar Jar Binks' specimen of creature, for their help. They supposedly have a great army, at least that is what Jar Jar brags about. Lately he has gotten bored of people becoming surprised at him and instead pleasures himself by telling others about his home life. It's all rather boring and interesting at the same time. Strange creatures Gungans. The plan has been put into effect now. Jar Jar is searching his former home, the Underwater City of the Gungans.
As I stood there, I noticed Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan talking. Curiosity unfortunately got the better of me and I snuck up behind the two. Qui-Gon stared off in the distance as Obi-Wan approached, pretending not to even be aware of his Padawan's presence. Obi-Wan knew it and looked about uncomfortably before speaking. "Jar Jar is on his way to the Gungan City, Master. Do you think the Queen's idea will work?" Obi-Wan asked hesitantly. Qui-Gon looked closer into a grove of trees, outwardly not interested in his Padawan's words.
"I don't know. Anyway we cannot use our powers to help her." He said stiffly. I shook my head. These two were as stubborn as rocks, both hard-headed and unwilling to co-operate. "I'm sorry for my behavior Master." Obi-Wan suddenly spoke out. I shook my head. It was about time. He certainly took his time about apologizing for something so obviously wrong. "It's not my place to judge about the boy." Obi-Wan continued, his face actually showing signs of remorse.. Then Qui-Gon finally looked at Obi-Wan, his blue eyes locked with his Padawan's. Obi-Wan managed a small grateful smile, as if thankful that his master had finally at least acknowledged his presence. "And I am grateful that you thought I was ready to face the trials."
Qui-Gon then smiled and put his hand on Obi-Wan's shoulder. "You've been a good apprentice Obi-Wan. And you are a much wiser man than I. I forsee that you will become a great Jedi Knight." Qui-Gon put a reassuring hand on his Padawan's shoulder as they stood together in the bushes. Obi-Wan smiled and nodded as Qui-Gon took his leave of him. Obi-Wan stood there alone for a moment, his eyes taking in the scenery. I was relieved at having witnessed the Jedi's reconciliation, and thus I suppose that is why I allowed myself to be felt. Obi-Wan suddenly looked down, his eyebrows furrowed. He took out his lightsaber, held it in position, and quickly brushed away the bushes in front of me, anticipating an attack. He took a step backwards in exasperation as he saw my crouched form.
Quickly, I jumped to my feet, giving Obi-Wan a winning smile."Well I hope you're satisfied." He said, irritation peppering his deep tones. "Trust me," I said with a cocky grin that irritated him further. "I am." Obi-Wan placed his lightsaber back in his belt. "So why were you hiding there? Thought we were going to invite you to a party?" He asked sarcastically. I rolled my eyes and waved my hand. "Of course not. Just hoping that you would finally find it in your heart to apologize. Which you did. Therefore I am satisfied." I commented, placing my hands across my chest. "Oh please. The next thing you'll be saying is that you were responsible for our reconciliation!" Obi-Wan retorted. I shrugged. "Who knows? Maybe I was." Before Obi-Wan could reply, we both turned at the sound of water rushing from the lake.
Jar Jar jumped up from the lake, shaking his leathery skin, water droplets falling all over the ground. As he wriggled himself dry, he approached Qui-Gon and the others. "Thersa nobody there! The city is deserted!" He said, his voice unable to mask his confusion. "More than likely they were wiped out." One of the Queen's soldiers mumbled sullenly. Jar Jar shook his head and waved his hand. "Mesa no think so." He replied. A new hope came into Qui-Gon's eyes. "Do you know where they are Jar Jar?" He asked. Jar Jar thought a moment, cocking his head one side thoughtfully. "When in trouble, Gungans go to Sacred Place. C'mon mesa show you!" Jar Jar yelled, running into the trees and bushes of the forest.
I glanced to Qui-Gon. He looked to Obi-Wan then nodded back in my direction. I shook my head and began to walk through the underbrush. By the mid-afternoon, I was quite tired of the branches that continued to slap me in the face and of the vines that pulled at my feet. I wished I could break a path with my lightsaber, but I didn't want to seem like I couldn't put up with it. "Are you holding up alright back here? You dropped back quite a bit." I turned around to face Padme's smiling face. I shook my head. "I don't know how you can like all these branches smacking you in the face all the time. It's aggravating. I wish it was clearer." Padme smiled and nodded, pushing a branch out of our way. "Yes, but you are used to open places. You'll get used to it in time. What I am grateful of is the lack of heat." She said thankfully, closing her eyes and breathing in the air. "I understand that. But still, it's rather muggy." I said. She looked at me and nodded. "Well, you really aren't dressed for the weather Elaina." She said, a twinkle in her eye.
I frowned and looked down at my attire. I shook my head in realization. My tall boots, my thick pants, with various pieces of cloth wound beneath them to keep out sand, my long-sleeved, thick shirt, I saw why I was so hot. Padme laughed at my embarrassment. "Don't worry. We'll work something out. We're sure to make camp sometime. Perhaps I have something you could borrow." She said thoughtfully. I raised my eyebrows, eyeing her elaborate costume. A maroon color, the velvet-like suit was very elaborate compared to my simple garb. "I don't know Padme. I might get it all dirty." I said doubtfully. She smiled and shook her head. "Of course. The Queen can always provide me with something else. It doesn't matter." She reassured me.
At that moment, a commanding voice called out Padme's name. Padme's head shot up, her brown eyes searching. She saw the Queen standing off to the side, waiting for her. "I must go. The Queen wishes to speak with me." Padme said, drawing away. I grabbed her arm and she turned around. "Thank you for your friendship Padme." I said quickly, placing my palm against hers. She smiled and turned around fully, placing her smooth palm firmly against my own rough one. "And I thank you Elaina, for your friendship." With that, she left me and I was once more alone.
Place: Naboo Forest, Gungan's "Sacred Place"
Finally we reached the Gungan "Sacred Place". It was a large opening in the forest, statues and heads of statues covered with moss and greenery peppering the ground. A beautiful and rather peaceful place, but filled to the brim with creatures like Jar Jar. They stood there staring at us, wondering why we were intruding on their grounds. I stared right back at them, my eyes glancing all around. They were everywhere. There were so many of them. Hundreds. Thousands. My gaze passed them, eyeing a large tree that was wound around several of the statue's heads. On top of them stood several rather imposing figures, Gungans, each wearing robes of office. They did not move or speak among themselves as the others did, but simply gazed at us cooly. One extremely fat Gungan, one who's appearance rather reminded me of Master Banoba began to speak degradingly to Jar Jar. "Jar Jar Binks. Whosa dis an' others?" He asked pointing to our curious band of travelors.
Amidala, dressed in elaborate battle dress, stepped forward. "I am Queen Amidala of the Naboo." At this the Gungans around us murmured with recognition. The large Gungan who had spoke first, knit his eyebrows together. "Ah Naboo biggun. Yousa bringin' da mackaneeks. Yousa all bombad." He said incriminatingly. I glanced at the Queen. Her white-painted face showed no emotion as she continued. "We have searched you out because we wish to form an alliance with," Amidala didn't get the chance to finish, for Padme suddenly stepped in front of her, speaking out to the Gungan. "Your honor," She said. The Queen eyed her, but didn't speak. I looked at Padme in confusion. What in the world was she doing? I didn't speak, but somehow she knew the shock behind her as she turned around. She glanced at the faces and her eyes locked with mine. She smiled reassuringly and turned back around.
The Gungan clucked disapprovingly. "Whosa dis?" He asked, gesturing to Padme. "Your honor, I am Queen Amidala." Lights exploded in my head as her identity finally hit home. I looked around me and saw very much of the same shock that I felt. But when I looked at the two Jedi they simply turned to each other and smiled. I looked back to Padme, now Amidala, who began to speak once more. "This is my decoy, my protection, my loyal bodyguard." Amidala said, pointing to the decoy. "I am sorry for my deception, but I had to protect myself. Though we do not always agree your honor, our great societys have always lived in peace. The Trade Federation has destroyed all that we have worked so hard to build. If we do not act quickly all will be lost forever. I ask you to help us. No I beg you to help us." As she said this, Amidala, Queen of Naboo, fell on her knees in front of the Gungans. Everyone in our band, followed her example and we fell on our knees. "We are your humble servants.Our fate is in your hands." Amidala finished solemnly.
We waited on our knees for the Gungan to decide what he would do. I waited there, searching the Gungan's thoughts. I tried to make some sense of them, but it was no use. They were too mixed up and jumbled to understand. So I had to wait like the others, in suspense. Finally the Gungan began to laugh, a low rumbling that raised and became higher pitched as it rose. "Yousa thinkin' yousa not greater than the Gungans?" Amidala paled and shook her head slightly, her brown eyes worried. The Gungan laughed again, this time, his face obviously pleased. "Mesa like a dis! maybe wesa be friends!" Amidala smiled broadly and we all stood up and began to speak and mingle with the Gungans.
As I backed away from the large crowd, yearning to have some time to think, a tug on my sleeve turned me around once more. I turned and found myself looking down on a little Gungan, no taller than my waist. Unlike Jar Jar, his skin was brown speckled, his eyes a watery gray. He looked up at me, then pointed to my lightsaber. "Oh this? This is a lightsaber. You fight with it." I said, motioning with it without opening it up how to fight. He looked at the lightsaber, then up at me. "Yousa lyin'! Yousa can't not fighten' with dat little stick." He protested. I sighed, seeing now that I was going to have to prove it to him. I drew it out and the creature jumped back with a little squeal. Then he took a step forward, interest showing in his eyes. He reached out a finger towards the blade, and I quickly drew it in. "Whysa yousa doin' dat? Mesa wantsa touch it!" He protested. I shook my head. "It'll burn you. It's not a toy." The little creature looked as though he would disobey once more, but a tall Gungan, I assumed his mother, called him. He sighed dismally, waved, then ran off. I shook my head. It seemed impossible that these creatures were going to help save a world.
I stood out of the way as droids began to load our ship with fresh supplies. I stood there waiting for Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon. As much as I had despised Obi-Wan a few moments ago, I hadn't been able to get his face out of my mind. It had been so full of shock at my outburst and at the same time, filled with betrayal. I shook his face out of my mind. I was sorry that he had been hurt, but I didn't regret the things I'd said. Finally I saw Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon walking down the ramp that lead to the ship. I took a step forward, thinking that perhaps the two were reconciling. But as they got closer, I could tell that they were doing exactly the opposite. After a few terse words from Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan set his mouth in an angry line and walked towards the ship. He caught a glimpse of me as I stood alone and he shook his head before entering the ship.
It was I that shook my head now. True, Obi-Wan had a right to be hurt, even upset with Qui-Gon, but it was no reason to take it out on me. But at the same time, if I had been him and I had gone up to me and yelled at me, I would certainly never want to see me again. That was all very confusing I'm sure, but still, you understand what I'm saying. The point is, he probably never wanted to see my face again. I had to talk to Qui-Gon about this. As I began to walk over to him, Anakin walked away, obviously pleased by something Qui-Gon had said to him.
"Master Qui-Gon, may I speak with you for a moment?" Qui-Gon looked down at me with a smile."Yes of course Elaina." He said reassuringly. "Master, well Master, I yelled at Obi-Wan." I blurted out. At that, Qui-Gon's eyebrows raised. "Oh did you?" He asked. I cast my eyes downward. "Yes Master. I said some, well, rather inappropriate things. I called him a spoiled brat." I looked at Qui-Gon. He had a suppressed smile on his face as he spoke. "Why did you say all these things to him?" He asked. "Because he was acting like a child because he was mad at Anakin and at you. For no reason." I protested. "He had his reasons. But not the right reasons. I do things that he doesn't understand." Qui-Gon sighed. "I can see that." I agreed. Then he looked at me. "You really yelled at him?" He asked. "Yes Master." I confirmed.
He shook his head and put his hand on my shoulder. "You have much to learn Elaina, but your heart is in the right place." He chuckled as we walked up the catwalk. Before we got to the ship, we looked behind us as the Queen approached. She walked towards us proudly, her head straight and erect, thoughtfullness echoing in her brown eyes. Qui-Gon waited for her to intercept us and he bowed as she approached. "Your majesty, it is my duty to continue to serve and protect you." He said loyally. She looked at him, and I felt her gratitude as well as her relief. "I welcome your help. Senator Palpatine believes that the Fedaration means to destroy me." She said, her voice void of emotion, but inwardly, her mind full of it. Qui-Gon nodded and helped her up the platform protectively. "I assure you that I will not allow that to happen." He said firmly. Before I entered the beautiful silver ship, I turned around and looked out over Corusant. If I wasn't able to become a Jedi, if I was to die on this mission, this would be my last look at this world. I wanted to treasure it. I looked around me, took in the sights and sounds, pressing it into my memory. It would never leave me. I could conjure it up whenever I wanted and relieve the same experience over again. I sighed and walked inside the ship, Jar Jar's sudden yell echoing behind me,"Wesa goin' home!"
Place: Naboo forest.
We have landed in the Naboo forest today. It is a beautiful place really. Very lush forests, thick with greenery and shrubs. Frankly I'm astonished by how much green there is. I was just getting used to the typical metallic gray of Corusant and now to be overpowered by this strong, alive color, it's really almost too much. It's like I've only had limited colors in my mind, yellow, gold, and brown, the basic colors of my homeworld. Don't get me wrong. I welcome the change. But it also does something to one. To me especially. I closed my eyes swiftly and my forehead creased as a vision assailed my thoughts. That boy, the pilot, he was walking around a forest. It seemed as though he was almost walking around this very forest, like I was a mere bystander. But I was there. His forehead was drawn together in anxiety. I felt his anxiety as he kicked at the dead leaves. Then the other, the boy with blonde hair, he surprised me as he ran up to the pilot. Really he was no longer a boy. Neither was the pilot. They were both men and had gone through many trials. I still heard nothing, but as I watched the two converse, one word slipped into my mind, spoken by the blonde haired man.
Han.
I creased my forehead as the vision ended. I couldn't think about this now. There was too much at stake. But still, the name echoed in my mind.
I haven't been able to speak with the Queen or Padme for that matter, but I have managed to figure out by word of mouth that the Queen means to ask the Gungans, Jar Jar Binks' specimen of creature, for their help. They supposedly have a great army, at least that is what Jar Jar brags about. Lately he has gotten bored of people becoming surprised at him and instead pleasures himself by telling others about his home life. It's all rather boring and interesting at the same time. Strange creatures Gungans. The plan has been put into effect now. Jar Jar is searching his former home, the Underwater City of the Gungans.
As I stood there, I noticed Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan talking. Curiosity unfortunately got the better of me and I snuck up behind the two. Qui-Gon stared off in the distance as Obi-Wan approached, pretending not to even be aware of his Padawan's presence. Obi-Wan knew it and looked about uncomfortably before speaking. "Jar Jar is on his way to the Gungan City, Master. Do you think the Queen's idea will work?" Obi-Wan asked hesitantly. Qui-Gon looked closer into a grove of trees, outwardly not interested in his Padawan's words.
"I don't know. Anyway we cannot use our powers to help her." He said stiffly. I shook my head. These two were as stubborn as rocks, both hard-headed and unwilling to co-operate. "I'm sorry for my behavior Master." Obi-Wan suddenly spoke out. I shook my head. It was about time. He certainly took his time about apologizing for something so obviously wrong. "It's not my place to judge about the boy." Obi-Wan continued, his face actually showing signs of remorse.. Then Qui-Gon finally looked at Obi-Wan, his blue eyes locked with his Padawan's. Obi-Wan managed a small grateful smile, as if thankful that his master had finally at least acknowledged his presence. "And I am grateful that you thought I was ready to face the trials."
Qui-Gon then smiled and put his hand on Obi-Wan's shoulder. "You've been a good apprentice Obi-Wan. And you are a much wiser man than I. I forsee that you will become a great Jedi Knight." Qui-Gon put a reassuring hand on his Padawan's shoulder as they stood together in the bushes. Obi-Wan smiled and nodded as Qui-Gon took his leave of him. Obi-Wan stood there alone for a moment, his eyes taking in the scenery. I was relieved at having witnessed the Jedi's reconciliation, and thus I suppose that is why I allowed myself to be felt. Obi-Wan suddenly looked down, his eyebrows furrowed. He took out his lightsaber, held it in position, and quickly brushed away the bushes in front of me, anticipating an attack. He took a step backwards in exasperation as he saw my crouched form.
Quickly, I jumped to my feet, giving Obi-Wan a winning smile."Well I hope you're satisfied." He said, irritation peppering his deep tones. "Trust me," I said with a cocky grin that irritated him further. "I am." Obi-Wan placed his lightsaber back in his belt. "So why were you hiding there? Thought we were going to invite you to a party?" He asked sarcastically. I rolled my eyes and waved my hand. "Of course not. Just hoping that you would finally find it in your heart to apologize. Which you did. Therefore I am satisfied." I commented, placing my hands across my chest. "Oh please. The next thing you'll be saying is that you were responsible for our reconciliation!" Obi-Wan retorted. I shrugged. "Who knows? Maybe I was." Before Obi-Wan could reply, we both turned at the sound of water rushing from the lake.
Jar Jar jumped up from the lake, shaking his leathery skin, water droplets falling all over the ground. As he wriggled himself dry, he approached Qui-Gon and the others. "Thersa nobody there! The city is deserted!" He said, his voice unable to mask his confusion. "More than likely they were wiped out." One of the Queen's soldiers mumbled sullenly. Jar Jar shook his head and waved his hand. "Mesa no think so." He replied. A new hope came into Qui-Gon's eyes. "Do you know where they are Jar Jar?" He asked. Jar Jar thought a moment, cocking his head one side thoughtfully. "When in trouble, Gungans go to Sacred Place. C'mon mesa show you!" Jar Jar yelled, running into the trees and bushes of the forest.
I glanced to Qui-Gon. He looked to Obi-Wan then nodded back in my direction. I shook my head and began to walk through the underbrush. By the mid-afternoon, I was quite tired of the branches that continued to slap me in the face and of the vines that pulled at my feet. I wished I could break a path with my lightsaber, but I didn't want to seem like I couldn't put up with it. "Are you holding up alright back here? You dropped back quite a bit." I turned around to face Padme's smiling face. I shook my head. "I don't know how you can like all these branches smacking you in the face all the time. It's aggravating. I wish it was clearer." Padme smiled and nodded, pushing a branch out of our way. "Yes, but you are used to open places. You'll get used to it in time. What I am grateful of is the lack of heat." She said thankfully, closing her eyes and breathing in the air. "I understand that. But still, it's rather muggy." I said. She looked at me and nodded. "Well, you really aren't dressed for the weather Elaina." She said, a twinkle in her eye.
I frowned and looked down at my attire. I shook my head in realization. My tall boots, my thick pants, with various pieces of cloth wound beneath them to keep out sand, my long-sleeved, thick shirt, I saw why I was so hot. Padme laughed at my embarrassment. "Don't worry. We'll work something out. We're sure to make camp sometime. Perhaps I have something you could borrow." She said thoughtfully. I raised my eyebrows, eyeing her elaborate costume. A maroon color, the velvet-like suit was very elaborate compared to my simple garb. "I don't know Padme. I might get it all dirty." I said doubtfully. She smiled and shook her head. "Of course. The Queen can always provide me with something else. It doesn't matter." She reassured me.
At that moment, a commanding voice called out Padme's name. Padme's head shot up, her brown eyes searching. She saw the Queen standing off to the side, waiting for her. "I must go. The Queen wishes to speak with me." Padme said, drawing away. I grabbed her arm and she turned around. "Thank you for your friendship Padme." I said quickly, placing my palm against hers. She smiled and turned around fully, placing her smooth palm firmly against my own rough one. "And I thank you Elaina, for your friendship." With that, she left me and I was once more alone.
Place: Naboo Forest, Gungan's "Sacred Place"
Finally we reached the Gungan "Sacred Place". It was a large opening in the forest, statues and heads of statues covered with moss and greenery peppering the ground. A beautiful and rather peaceful place, but filled to the brim with creatures like Jar Jar. They stood there staring at us, wondering why we were intruding on their grounds. I stared right back at them, my eyes glancing all around. They were everywhere. There were so many of them. Hundreds. Thousands. My gaze passed them, eyeing a large tree that was wound around several of the statue's heads. On top of them stood several rather imposing figures, Gungans, each wearing robes of office. They did not move or speak among themselves as the others did, but simply gazed at us cooly. One extremely fat Gungan, one who's appearance rather reminded me of Master Banoba began to speak degradingly to Jar Jar. "Jar Jar Binks. Whosa dis an' others?" He asked pointing to our curious band of travelors.
Amidala, dressed in elaborate battle dress, stepped forward. "I am Queen Amidala of the Naboo." At this the Gungans around us murmured with recognition. The large Gungan who had spoke first, knit his eyebrows together. "Ah Naboo biggun. Yousa bringin' da mackaneeks. Yousa all bombad." He said incriminatingly. I glanced at the Queen. Her white-painted face showed no emotion as she continued. "We have searched you out because we wish to form an alliance with," Amidala didn't get the chance to finish, for Padme suddenly stepped in front of her, speaking out to the Gungan. "Your honor," She said. The Queen eyed her, but didn't speak. I looked at Padme in confusion. What in the world was she doing? I didn't speak, but somehow she knew the shock behind her as she turned around. She glanced at the faces and her eyes locked with mine. She smiled reassuringly and turned back around.
The Gungan clucked disapprovingly. "Whosa dis?" He asked, gesturing to Padme. "Your honor, I am Queen Amidala." Lights exploded in my head as her identity finally hit home. I looked around me and saw very much of the same shock that I felt. But when I looked at the two Jedi they simply turned to each other and smiled. I looked back to Padme, now Amidala, who began to speak once more. "This is my decoy, my protection, my loyal bodyguard." Amidala said, pointing to the decoy. "I am sorry for my deception, but I had to protect myself. Though we do not always agree your honor, our great societys have always lived in peace. The Trade Federation has destroyed all that we have worked so hard to build. If we do not act quickly all will be lost forever. I ask you to help us. No I beg you to help us." As she said this, Amidala, Queen of Naboo, fell on her knees in front of the Gungans. Everyone in our band, followed her example and we fell on our knees. "We are your humble servants.Our fate is in your hands." Amidala finished solemnly.
We waited on our knees for the Gungan to decide what he would do. I waited there, searching the Gungan's thoughts. I tried to make some sense of them, but it was no use. They were too mixed up and jumbled to understand. So I had to wait like the others, in suspense. Finally the Gungan began to laugh, a low rumbling that raised and became higher pitched as it rose. "Yousa thinkin' yousa not greater than the Gungans?" Amidala paled and shook her head slightly, her brown eyes worried. The Gungan laughed again, this time, his face obviously pleased. "Mesa like a dis! maybe wesa be friends!" Amidala smiled broadly and we all stood up and began to speak and mingle with the Gungans.
As I backed away from the large crowd, yearning to have some time to think, a tug on my sleeve turned me around once more. I turned and found myself looking down on a little Gungan, no taller than my waist. Unlike Jar Jar, his skin was brown speckled, his eyes a watery gray. He looked up at me, then pointed to my lightsaber. "Oh this? This is a lightsaber. You fight with it." I said, motioning with it without opening it up how to fight. He looked at the lightsaber, then up at me. "Yousa lyin'! Yousa can't not fighten' with dat little stick." He protested. I sighed, seeing now that I was going to have to prove it to him. I drew it out and the creature jumped back with a little squeal. Then he took a step forward, interest showing in his eyes. He reached out a finger towards the blade, and I quickly drew it in. "Whysa yousa doin' dat? Mesa wantsa touch it!" He protested. I shook my head. "It'll burn you. It's not a toy." The little creature looked as though he would disobey once more, but a tall Gungan, I assumed his mother, called him. He sighed dismally, waved, then ran off. I shook my head. It seemed impossible that these creatures were going to help save a world.
