Many thanks to all those who reviewed. I hope this chapter answers a few of your questions, but will make you curious about what will happen next. Keep tuning in as I will try to keep the updates regular. Sometimes though Darth RL likes to slow that down, but I will do my best to fight through that.

Kazzy: Glad you liked. I've read a couple of fics dealing with this possibility, but most didn't delve into it too deeply. My plans for this is for it to become an epic piece as long as people are interested. I'm happy that you liked Ani's and Padme's interaction. There will definitely be more of that and of course old Obi-Wan will be peaking in from time to time.

humg321: Indeed, how will Anakin avoid wicked Palpy? Keep on reading to find out :-).

Padawan Sydney Bristow: Thanks! Am happy to know that you liked. Your wish is my command :).

Pokey1984: Well, after enough proding, I finally got it going. Thanks again for all your support and encouragement getting this story off the ground. Hope it won't disappoint.

Jokerisdaking: What if? Hmmm...Keeping reading to find out :).

Nothingfeelsgood: Glad you liked. A/P mush is great, but it is doubtful we'll see it in this story. (Wait a minute, am I hearing potential sequel? ;) ).

A/N: As always, I have to pledge my undying thanks to my enlightened beta Pokey1984. However, all mistakes are mine and mine alone.


Young Anakin felt nervous. As Amidala and her handmaidens were organizing the parade, he made his way towards the rear of the large group. Shifting about in place, he eyed the gathering of Jedi with unease. The recently freed slave had always known when others harbored negative feelings towards him. It had saved him on numerous occasions, as well as his former owner. Anakin supposed this knack was the Force guiding him and what it said was that these 'heroes' feared him somehow.

The celebratory parade was a thing of wonder. The cheerful cries of thousands of freed Nubians resonated throughout the Theed Palace complex. Meanwhile, confetti fluttered in the breeze and onto the shoulders of all in attendance. The entire planet, both Naboo and Gungan were united in celebration, now that the threat to their peace had been removed. This world was so much different than where Anakin had been raised. If only his mother could see this wonderful place.

The boy's heart ached as he thought about her, still back in that Force forsaken desert. If he was sent back, perhaps he could strike a deal with Watto to help him obtain a new racer. Then he could enter the Galactic podracing circuit and earn the credits needed to buy his mother's freedom. It all was perfect, too perfect when he thought about it. In reality, if he was to go back to Watto, he'd be fortunate to live through the encounter.

Anakin's thoughts drifted back to his friend, the Queen. As much as he cared for Padmé, trusting anyone other than his mother was something that he rarely did. However, besides being captivated with her beauty, something about her was comforting. It was almost like coming home.

Padmé was the kindest person he had ever encountered, next to his mother. During their recent adventure, she had taken it upon herself to make sure he didn't feel so alone. Then, once he learned that she was Amidala, her small gestures had meant all that much more. Since the moment she walked into his life, his heart desperately encouraged him to trust her.

Despite her position and their friendship, how could she possibly oppose the Jedi? They were all powerful and if they wanted him back on Tatooine, nobody could oppose them. As much as he wanted to revel in the moment, to be celebrated as a hero, these thoughts refused him the joy he desperately sought.

Anakin was near the point of despair when he caught the radiant smile of the angel Queen gleaming at him. When he offered his lopsided grin, Amidala's smile grew, causing his mood to lift. A new thought then entered his consciousness, causing him to squash the mounting trepidation that was building in his heart. Trusting her is
definitely worth the risk.
That single moment's acceptance would irrevocably change Anakin's life.


After the parade, Eirtaé and Yané guided Anakin back into the Queen's throne room. It was a spacious area with white marbled floors and several bay windows overlooking the palace's grand entrance. In front of the windows was a large alabaster throne with a rectangular desk in front. Opposite the throne were several smaller seats, belonging to the Queen's chief officials. To the far left hand side, several rows of wooden chairs were placed for key members of Naboo's Parliament. In the center of the room was a large holoprojector that displayed life sized holographic images.

As Anakin looked around the room in awe, Eirtaé joined him. "Her majesty requests you take the seat at her right side."

The young boy proffered a tense smile. "Thank you, Eirtaé."

The handmaiden nodded as both she and Yané departed for the antechamber. Now alone, Anakin could not sit still for more than a minute. He then stood up so he could stare out the window. He was captivated at Theed's ornate architecture when a melodic voice called out from behind.

"It's quite breathtaking, isn't it?"

The young boy jumped as he twisted around to see Queen Amidala standing a few feet behind him. She was wearing the red robes that she wore in the Senate chambers on Coruscant. She chuckled when she saw him blush.

"I didn't mean to startle you, Ani."

He smirked as he replied, "You didn't, your highness. I was thinking how totally wizard all the buildings are."

The young monarch proudly beamed as she gazed outside. A moment later, Sabé entered the throne room to inform them that the Jedi were outside waiting. Amidala nodded and as she and Anakin were taking their places, she threw a quick smile to the boy.

"Everything's going to work out, Ani. Trust me."

He winked at her as he responded, "I trust you, angel."

Once seated, Jedi Masters Yoda and Windu followed by recently knighted Obi-Wan Kenobi entered the room and politely bowed before the Queen. She acknowledged them silently, while motioning for them to sit down.

"Thank you Master Jedi for agreeing to meet with me." Amidala announced warmly.

Mace Windu stoically answered, "It is our pleasure to answer your Majesty's summons."

The Queen inwardly winced at his apparent indifference. "I wish I could say though that this meeting was held under better circumstances; however, such is the way of things."

"What is it that you wish to discuss, your Majesty?" asked the diminutive Master Yoda.

Before the Queen spoke, she took a deep breath to steady herself. "It has come to my attention that you are not taking Anakin back to Coruscant to be trained as a Jedi."

The two Jedi Masters stared at each other blankly before Master Windu answered, "The Council has decided that while incredibly gifted, Anakin is too old and emotionally attached to become a Jedi."

"Surely your graces can see that Anakin is special and deserves to be trained," pleaded the Queen.

"While the boy is talented, training him would be an unwarranted risk," cautioned Windu.

"Too much anger and fear, cloud his destiny they do." added Master Yoda.

Amidala was quickly becoming enraged, but remained outwardly placid as she continued to seek a diplomatic solution. "Certainly this is all the more reason to train him. Help him learn to control those feelings so they could never become destructive."

In an attempt to defuse the escalating situation, Obi-Wan addressed his Masters. "I swore to Qui-Gon that I would train Anakin; with or without the Council's permission if I had to."

Master Windu looked at him with regret, thinking about how disappointed his lost friend would be with their decision. "It is unfortunate that you made a promise that you knew in your heart you couldn't possibly keep."

"Expelled from the Order, you would be, Obi-Wan. Dishonor your fallen Master's memory, you would," stated Yoda coldly.

Queen Amidala saw the young Jedi lose his resolve as his grief overshadowed his convictions. Under any other circumstance, she would have pitied him. However, with Anakin's life on the line, the young monarch would not allow her sympathies to cloud her perceptions.

"While I cannot begin to understand your ways, I find it hard to believe that such an enlightened group cannot see beyond a rulebook when the right decision is so much more rewarding," the Queen remarked, in an attempt to approach the problem from another direction.

Yoda closed his eyes to focus his vision into the Force. He then opened them, looking straight at Amidala. "Betray you; your thoughts do, your highness. Much love and compassion for the boy in you, I sense." Yoda continued "Unobjective and unwarranted your arguments are; our own council we will take in who we will or will not accept for training. Untrained, Anakin Skywalker shall remain."

As if slapped in the face, the Queen jolted back in her throne. Nobody, in her few years of political service, had ever been so blunt. Now infuriated, Amidala's voice lowered as she asked sardonically, "Am I to take it then that you will be returning Anakin to Tatooine?"

Master Windu cleared his throat in an attempt to shake off the strong emotions the Queen was releasing into the Force. "The boy must be returned to his mother. It is our way and responsibility, since he will not be trained"

"The Jedi way is to return an initiate to his home. This does not apply to somebody who was never accepted for training in the first place." Amidala pointed out.

The dark skinned Jedi looked at Master Yoda who reluctantly nodded in agreement. He then reiterated, "Nevertheless, the boy's mother is on Tatooine and that is where he belongs."

"So you'll just take him back to where the Hutts are the law and he'll most likely become a slave again? How convenient," she said bitterly, while strangling the ends of her armrest.

"Your highness, our Code tells us…" Mace began, but with her patience now gone, the fourteen year old ruler of Naboo stood up from her throne; she finally had heard enough. "Damn you, Jedi. Damn you and your imperturbable Jedi Code! Anakin's just a boy who you condemn for simply not being born in the right place. Some enlightened Order."

The Jedi looked at each other dumbfounded during the Queen's tirade. "Since you obviously care for nothing, except maintaining the sanctity of your precious Code, I'm going to give you some rules. I want you and all the members of your Order off of Naboo immediately. Your presence here is no longer required."

As the three Jedi stood up, Amidala smirked in satisfaction as she spotted the look of pure astonishment coming from Anakin. True to his word, he had remained quiet throughout the confrontation, trusting Padmé take care of everything.

"Also, you will not take Anakin with you. Under Naboo law, he is temporarily a ward of the state and I am placing him under my protective custody."

As the Jedi were about to protest, she added, "If you do try to take him, I will order your immediate arrest for violating our sovereignty under Republic law. Do I make myself clear?"

Yoda looked at her wryly. "Unusual your actions are, your highness. To take the boy, well within our rights, it is."

An evil grin eclipsed the face of the girl Queen. "Be my guest, Master Jedi. In fact, Supreme Chancellor Palpatine is in my antechamber and I am sure he would be interested in learning that the leading members of the Jedi Order wish to abduct a ward of Naboo, which coincidentally, is his home planet."

The diminutive Yoda glimpsed the nodding approval of Mace Windu. The two Masters then bowed before the Queen.

"Then with your permission, your highness, we will take our leave." After a moment's hesitation and while staring at the very awestruck Anakin, he then remarked, "We leave the fate of young Skywalker in your majesty's capable hands."

Coldly, Amidala stared without responding. Meanwhile, Master Windu faced Anakin. "May the Force be with you young one."

"And with you, sir," the boy replied, amazed to see a Jedi backing down.

Before Masters Yoda and Windu left, Obi-Wan stood before the Queen.

"Your highness, may I remain a moment?"

She nodded solemnly as the two other Masters left the throne room. Anakin lingered in his seat, shocked by the ferocity of the Queen. Whatever lingering doubts he had about her, disappeared; never to return.

"I must apologize for my outburst, Master Jedi. I fail to see how an Order, so dedicated to service could condemn a soul to slavery."

"No need for apologies, your highness" said Obi Wan. "I feel responsible for failing my Master." Gathering his thoughts, he added, "Even though I was at first apprehensive about Anakin, I see now that he has tremendous potential and we should not let fear dictate our actions."

"You had no authority over this matter and I appreciate all that you tried to do." Amidala said, unable to mask her disappointment.

"If only I could have done more..." Obi-Wan replied with regret, but stopped in mid-sentence as he felt Anakin inadvertently reach out to him through the Force. The young Jedi had always been a proponent of supporting the Council's rulings, despite his personal views. However, his conscience could not let him forget the numerous occasions in which Qui-Gon risked his own expulsion to save him from ill-advised, youthful mistakes.

This situation involving Anakin was wrong. As he felt the boy reaching out, he also sensed the Force urging him to do the right thing. Obi-Wan motioned for Anakin to join him. The two looked at each other silently, while the boy shifted his weight from foot to foot, waiting for the Jedi to speak.

"I know I am not allowed to train you, Anakin." The young boy looked down, not noticing the sly grin eclipsing the face of the young Jedi. "However, I made a promise to my Master; one I intend on keeping."

Obi-Wan flashed a smile at the unsuspecting Queen before returning his gaze at the boy. He then walked behind young Skywalker and in a display similar to what Qui-Gon had done only days prior o, he announced, "I take Anakin Skywalker as my unofficial Padawan learner as witnessed by her majesty Queen Amidala."

"I accept, Master Obi-Wan!" The boy's face radiated as he saw the approving smile from Padmé.

Obi-Wan then reached into his tunic and pulled out Qui-Gon's black handled lightsaber. He then knelt down to look Anakin in the eye. "I know my Master would want you to have this." The boy's face was mixed with pride and sadness as he felt the cold metal of the weapon. How he wished the Master was here so none of this had to happen.

Sensing Anakin's jumble of emotions, Obi-Wan placed a hand of support on his shoulder. "Remember, a Jedi's strength flows through the Force and it is never to be used with hate or anger. You must always be mindful of those feelings for they lead to the dark side."

Anakin shyly replied, "I will do as you say, Master." He then clipped his new lightsaber onto his utility belt while standing proudly.

"I know you will Anakin and one day you will prove the Council wrong." Obi-Wan said hopeful. During this impromptu lesson, Amidala had walked down from her throne to join them. She flashed a warm smile at Obi-Wan as she gave him her sincerest thanks.

"I must get back to the other Jedi as I am sure they are becoming suspicious." Obi-Wan observed, causing both Amidala and Anakin to smirk full of mischief. "As soon as I return to Coruscant, I will formally request a transfer to the Jedi training facility on Corellia, which is less than a parsec from Naboo."

"Will I see you often, Master?" Anakin asked with hope.

"While I'll have the freedom to come to Naboo every other month or so, it will be up to you to maintain your training." Meanwhile, your majesty, it will be critical for Anakin's long term needs to be addressed."

The young Queen nodded as she offered a quick wink at the boy. "I'm currently working on ensuring that Anakin can stay on Naboo permanently."

"Really?" Anakin cried out with excitement.

A soft smile crossed the white painted face of the Nubian monarch as she noted her little friend's elation. However, her mood sobered as she knelt down to grab both of his hands. "I know how much you must miss your mother and if it was in my immediate power, I would bring her here in a heartbeat. However, with all that has happened to Naboo, we lack the resources to free her."

The young boy listened intently as Amidala leaned closer to him. "But I promise you, just as soon as possible, we will return to Tatooine so we gain her freedom."

Staring at her in complete wonderment, the jittery boy uttered, "I don't know what to say, your highness." Anakin momentarily scanned the compassionate face of the girl Queen. "Why are you doing all this? I am just a slave."

"Because I am your angel, as well as your friend." Without warning, he jumped into her arms and they hugged until Obi-Wan cleared his throat to gain their attention.

Chuckling, the two youngsters broke away. "With your permission, your majesty, I will take my leave." He politely bowed and then reached into his utility belt to reveal a tiny datachip, which he gave to Anakin. "This will provide you with the basics of lightsaber wielding, meditation and the customs of the Jedi. It also contains a private scrambler code that you can use to get into contact with me."

Awestruck at the brazen disregard of the Order's rules, the young Queen gave the Jedi a friendly embrace. "Thank you, Master Obi-Wan for saving the people of Naboo, as well as our opinion of the Jedi Order. I pray your wisdom will someday be recognized and will enlighten the rest of the Jedi." Throwing him a large smile she added, "You will always be most welcomed on Naboo."

Obi-Wan half-bowed in thanks, then he bent down to hug Anakin. "Begin your reading as soon as possible. I hope to return soon so we can start your initial training."

Anakin bowed his head. "Yes Master. I look forward to it."


In a far corner of the throne room, away from the sight of its occupants stood two figures. One was the illuminated image of Qui-Gon Jinn, while his companion was in the form of a young woman. She radiated brilliance and was beaming with joy at the scene before her. As defiant as ever, the spirit of Qui-Gon folded his arms:

"I still don't understand what you think you are doing?"

The woman smirked at him, amused at his naivety. "It is not required for you to understand, Master Jinn."

"Why did you make the Jedi so obstinate? Surely Anakin would have been better off trained by Obi-Wan with the approval of the Council."

"Oh really?" She responded as if she already knew the answer to that observation.

Cautiously, the former Jedi Master withdrew as he returned his gaze towards Anakin. "While it would have been difficult for him to adapt to Temple life since he is older, I think he still would have made the adjustment. Plus, the structure would have shaped him into a great Jedi."

"Your insight was correct when you recognized Anakin as the Chosen One and the Jedi Order will be instrumental in the fulfillment of his destiny, one day."

As Qui-Gon was about to further question her, she raised her hand to stop him. "However, the task of training the Chosen One to hear my voice is too great a responsibility for them to assume alone."

"There are others besides Obi-Wan who can teach him?" Qui-Gon asked curiously.

Smirking, the woman replied, "Many others, but one in particular. However, everything in its due time. For now, the Chosen One will be safe with his angel."

"What about the Dark Lord? You know you are placing them in danger proximity to him." The spirit of the Jedi Master looked at her with great concern, but sighed in defeat as she continued watching Anakin and Padmé. "I just wish I understood your reasons…"

She chuckled as she turned to face the ethereal Jedi. "It really isn't that difficult. I will never abandon them, either of them. And that's what is important." The woman then placed a hand of comfort on his shoulder. "Come. It is time for you to return with me. There is much for you to learn." The former Master smiled happily as they disappeared into eternity.


When he reached the antechamber, Obi-Wan was greeted by an anxious Sabé. The two gazed upon each other affectionately until the doors to the throne room shut behind him. At that moment, the slender young woman threw herself into his arms to give him an appreciative kiss. As they pulled away she smiled, with a hint of mischief in her eyes. "I knew you would do the right thing all along."

"Were you listening the entire time?" The Jedi asked, crossing his arms with a look of mock disgust.

Feigning innocence, Sabé answered, "It is amazing how sound carries in this old Palace, isn't it."

"Quite amazing indeed," Obi-Wan observed amused.

"So, will I be seeing you soon, Master Kenobi?" Sabé asked, with slightly teasing tone in her voice.

"Quite possibly, Sabé Orllize. Stranger things have occurred." He reached over to give her a chaste kiss on the check. "Until then, may the Force be with you."

"And with you, my friend." She replied, trying to hide her sadness.

They embraced again before the young Jedi Knight left to board his transport. The young handmaiden sighed as she hoped that the friendship that they had forged during their little adventure would one day bring them back together.


Meanwhile, back in the throne room, an excited but obviously tired young boy began to yawn. Sensing his fatigue and knowing fully well that her little friend would not leave her presence on his own accord, Amidala asked, "Are you tired, Ani?"

He bobbed his head up and down in response, attempting to keep his eyes open.

"You've had a busy day. Why don't you go to your room and relax?" She proposed. "After my commitments are complete for the day, we can dine together."

The young boy politely bowed. "It would be a pleasure, your majesty. Before Anakin could exit, Saché entered the throne room.

"I apologize for the interruption, your majesty."

"What is it?" Amidala asked.

"Chancellor Palpatine and Governor Bibble are waiting to speak with you" stated Saché.

The young monarch refocused her attention upon her little friend, giving him a slight smile. "Until dinner then, Ani?"

"Of course, your highness." Quickly, he left the room, only pausing momentarily to bow before the Supreme Chancellor and the Governor. Amidala's face immediately returned to the calm, stoic persona of the Queen upon reaching her throne.

The two elder gentlemen bowed as she motioned for them to stand before her.

"What can I do for you, Chancellor?"

Palpatine smiled evilly at the mention of his new title. "I know of the turmoil left behind by the Trade Federation; however, I wanted to remind your Majesty that my position as Senator needs to be filled until an election can be called."

The Queen nodded knowingly at his statement. "I appreciate you bringing this to my attention, Chancellor. Unfortunately, with the damage done to our infrastructure, it will be some time before I can call a general election."

"Might I suggest that your highness appoint somebody reputable for the interim?"

Amidala smirked as she asked amusedly, "Who do you have in mind, Chancellor?"

Sio Bibble interrupted. "Believe me, your majesty; I had nothing to do with this."

"Even if Palpatine hadn't interceded, I couldn't think of anybody else I would trust in the Senate for the interim; that is, if you are willing to serve Governor?" asked the Queen.

The elder statesman smirked. "I am willing to serve the crown in any capacity, your highness."

"Very well Sio. I'll officially appoint you interim Senator when we reconvene the Royal Court in the next several days." He bowed as he thanked the young ruler. A moment of uncomfortable silence filled the room before Chancellor Palpatine broke it.

"Is it my understanding that the Jedi have refused to train young Skywalker?"

"If afraid it is." Amidala replied sadly.

"With your permission, of course, I could speak with the Jedi Council on his behalf"

The young monarch looked thoughtful as she contemplated his offer. Although the office of the Supreme Chancellor did carry significant weight with the Jedi, something told her that it would be unwise to accept his request. "While I would appreciate the effort Chancellor, I'm afraid nobody could change their minds."

Governor Bibble spat, "What a terrible way to treat a hero of the Naboo. In just two days, stories of his heroism have spread throughout our people, giving them much needed hope."

The Supreme Chancellor smirked wickedly while he listened. "Indeed, young Skywalker's actions do merit recognition."

Curiously, Amidala asked, "What do you have in mind?"

The two elder gentlemen glanced at each other as Governor Bibble asked, "What do you remember of the Order of the High Protectors, your majesty?"

Amidala furrowed her brow as she recalled an old history lesson from her days at the academy. "I believe they were once a group of nobles charged by the old monarchy to serve and defend the throne. But once Naboo became a democracy, it became a title of honor that very few people have ever achieved"

That is correct, your highness; twenty to be exact in almost a thousand years." Bibble said.

"What are the requirements in naming a person a High Protector?" Amidala questioned, knowing they already had this in mind.

"The recipient must exhibit extraordinary valor in the defense of the crown and people of Naboo. He or she would have to be recommended by two members of the Royal Court and approved by the monarch." Governor Bibble stated.

Unconsciously, Amidala reached for the pendent of Japor snippet that hung from around her neck. "I take then that you both are recommending Anakin for this honor?"

Chancellor Palpatine bowed his head. "With all due respect, your highness, I think the boy more than deserves it. Plus, it would be a great to lift the spirits of our people. The deeds of many of the High Protector Knights are part of legend."

Sio interrupted, "It would be much more than just a simple award. While it would grant young Skywalker automatic citizenship, tradition dictates that the High Protector be given a place in the Royal Court to act as an advisor to the monarch."

Palpatine frowned. "But young Skywalker is just a boy."

"Only for the moment, your Excellency," stated the Queen smirking. "However, I do seem to recall a tribute that was established by one of my predecessors that not even I can access; only the High Protector."

"That is correct, your Majesty." Governor Bibble then added "However, unlike before, I don't recall this honor ever being bestowed on a minor child before."

"Then we are in uncharted territory," the Queen said while folding her hands together.

Palpatine smirked as he looked at Amidala. "Might I suggest that your highness appoint somebody as overseer of the tribute as I am sure it is quite considerable"

Sio Bibble nodded in agreement. "There hasn't been a High Protector in nearly ninety years, so the fund should be very substantial."

Palpatine was about to give his additional thoughts when the Queen held her hand out, giving him pause.

"I think for the moment, we should first see if young Anakin wishes to stay with us. Once we've settled that, I will personally take care of the details." Queen Amidala then motioned for Rabé to hand her a datapad. "I will of course approve of your nomination and we will organize a formal state dinner in the next few days to award Anakin this honor." She said while writing in her orders to make it official.

"As you wish, your Majesty." The two men respectfully bowed and left the throne room. As soon as they were alone, all of Amidala's handmaidens gathered about her.

"That is an amazing honor." Eirtaé observed.

Both Amidala and Sabé shared a knowing smile. "This changes a few things, don't you think, your highness."

The Queen smiled briefly as her mind was sorting through all that just transpired.

Eirtaé then grinned mischievously, "Of course you know, your highness, it is tradition for the Queen to give the recipient a gift."

Amidala folded her arms as she thought what would be befitting for a boy who literally saved her and her world. She snapped her fingers as the answer appeared in her mind. However, she kept it to herself as she wanted it to be a surprise. For the meantime, there was still a major issue that needed to be addressed.

Quickly she stood up. "My ladies, let us retire so I can get out of these robes. I have important things to take care of."

The handmaidens grinned as they followed their Queen and friend back to her chambers.