The Penpal Paradox/Chapter Six

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ChommelSector/Naberrie,Padmé

441015/11:02/016

Dear Obi-Wan,

A much clearer picture of your Master is coming into view. I sense that he is hard on you, and for good reason. He's probably afraid of losing you like he lost Xanatos, and fear is the greatest illusion. Be consistent, Obi-Wan. In time, you'll prove to him your worth. Don't let him get to you. I have a feeling you'll be a great Jedi someday.

I worry about this mission, though. It sounds dangerous. Please be careful. I feel like I'm just getting to know you, and there is still so much I want to learn. For instance…

What is your favorite color? Do you listen to music? Have you seen many holovids? Do you have a favorite animal? What do you do in your downtime when you're not writing letters to me?

I shall go ahead and answer my own questions to save some time. My favorite color is purple, the darker the shade, the better.

Sometimes when I'm alone, the stillness of Naboo seems confining and I will tune into a holosite that plays some of my father's favorite songs. The 'good ol' oldies', he calls them. I'm not sure why I like them as well, though I suspect my father's influence is behind that.

It may surprise you to find out I enjoy watching action holovids. I've seen all the latest. The more explosions there are, the more I like them. The thrill, the suspense, the surprise, the way it makes my heart beat faster; I like it all.

Favorite animal. I think that would have to be a tuskcat. I had one when I was very young. He was solid white with blue eyes. I named him Alabaster.

When I'm not participating in relief missions or political endeavors, I spend time with my family. Like most siblings, my sister Sola and I don't always get along, but we usually make up quickly. My best friend, however, is a girl I went to school with named Dormé. She's witty and loyal, and we spend a lot of time together. She actually knows me better than anyone.

I hope to hear from you soon and I am positive the news will be good – that you and Qui-Gon will have been successful in your mission.

Stay safe.

Sincerely, Padmé

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Padmé didn't waste any time and sent the message immediately. She carefully set her DataReader back onto the side table, lay on the bed and stared at it. And she continued to stare at it until she fell asleep.