Okay, wow. That's all I can say right about now. Wow. 21 reviews for just one little chapter? You guys are amazing! Here's the next chapter, I hope you enjoy it!

This WILL be a Padme/Anakin fic, just to let you know.

Cowgirl4Christ: I agree. Something different is always good. Cool, I get brownie points! Thanks for reviewing!

Jill: Why thank you! Yes, Ever After is one of my favorite movies. It's going to be around the same thing, except for Anakin getting really mad at Padme for lying to him. And some other stuff, too.

blue-buggy: Thank you! I appreciate it.

randomangel22: I'm glad you can't wait! I'm enjoying writing this story, it's a lot of fun.

Naberrie Skyler: A fairy godmother? Hmm... wait and find out! No mice or pumpkin in this one, after all, they do have better technology! But I'm sure something will come up!

Jean: Well, as I mentioned before, this is a Padme/Anakin fic.

Miss-Jedi: Well, I hope this counts as soon! MtFbw you too!

M.J.L.S.: Thank you! Well, after all, this is a Cinderella story! Hope you enjoy this chapter!

LilliesoftheValley: Thanks! It's okay, I announced the news already.

Laura-chan: Your hoping is not in vain, because it's going to be an Ani/Padme fic!

lala: I agree. I haven't seen something really lighthearted and sweet in a long time. Just a lot of angst and drama. Not that I don't mind drama, but too much angst gets me depressed. Something different is good.

Bricaus: Thank you! I hope you enjoy this chapter.

completely-obsessed: Thank you very much!

xI'll Cover Youx: Thanks!

Pip: He he he! That's a funny way of putting it. Thanks for the grammar complement.

Callahana: Thank you, here's the next chapter.

GalaxyPink: No flames is always a good thing. New twists are something I look forward to.

Infinite Inferno: Yes, very different! Padme is gonna end up with... well, look up and read the note above!

RavenRulzRF: Yeah, I feel for her. She needs some comfort and friendship. That's what droids are for, lol!

Blank: Why thank you! I'm glad you like it.

Avschick33: Everyone seems to like the Cinderella twist! I'm so thrilled! Thank you!

Chapter 2

Padmé had finished her morning chores and had already helped to serve the lunch. She was now on her way to the defense room, where the palace captain of the guard, Captain Panaka, was waiting for her.

"Good to see you, Padmé," he said, "are you ready to continue training on level five?"

She nodded. "Yes, Captain," she replied. "How long is it before I get to the handmaiden's level?"

"You're almost there, kiddo," Panaka grinned, twirling a blaster pistol around in one hand. "But I thought you wanted to run for senator."

Padmé shook her head. "I doubt Her Highness would let me," she said.

"But it's your life, Padmé."

"Not according to my stepmother."

Panaka studied her. "You would make a wonderful queen," he spoke. "It's such a shame that… well… come now, let's get ready."

"A shame that my father remarried?" Padmé finished bitterly. "I know what you mean."

Panaka blinked, surprised at her sudden depressed attitude. "Padmé, honestly, I didn't know you–"

"Just because I serve my stepfamily doesn't mean I love them or anything," she shot back. Ashamed at her behavior, she blushed and looked down. "I'm sorry," she went on quietly.

He gave her an understand look. "It's nothing," he said. "Now come on, let's get fighting!"

The two began a heated battle, throwing kicks and punches at each other. Though Panaka was bigger and much stronger, Padmé was quicker and more agile. She flipped in the air and kicked him to the ground, where he lay there, panting for breath.

"You get better every time," he gasped.

"Why thank you, Captain," she replied. Suddenly checking her chrono, she squeaked, picked up her boots, and ran out of the room. "I gotta go!" she called out, glancing behind her. Panaka sat there, shaking his head.

---

Padmé arrived at the lake by late afternoon. The sun was beginning to set, and most of the early evening creatures were coming out. Pulling off her outer clothes, she waded into the lake, only wearing a black body suit. She then dove straight into the lake, heading down wards towards the murky depths. But it wasn't that murky, for she swam right into a bubble and landed.

"Padmé!" a familiar voice called out happily. She turned to see her long time companion, Jar Jar Binks, running towards her. Unfortunately, the clumsy Gungan tripped over his own feet and landed face forward in front of her.

"Oopsie!" he chirped, standing back up. "Mesa very clumsy!" Padmé couldn't help but laugh.

"That's okay, Jar Jar," she said. "I'm just glad you're not hurt." She helped him up and patted his shoulder.

"Da boss will be happy to see yousa!" he said, excited. "Hesa missed yousa conversations!"

Padmé nodded thoughtfully. "I know, I've just been so busy," she apologized. "I haven't been able to get away from my stepfamily."

"Come on, let'sa go go!" Jar Jar interrupted, pulling her along the corridors, "Desa have a big meeting today!" He brought her to the main conference room, where the head Gungans were seated. Boss Nass was at the head, a stern, grave Gungan. But his hard face creased into a smile when he saw Padmé.

"Isa good to see yousa, Padmé," he said. "Maybe yousa help us wit dis, I tink."

"Whatever you need me for, I'll be glad to help," Padmé put in helpfully. She walked over to a bench and sat down, ready to put in her say. At least here people listened to her, unlike at home.

They debated about different things for a while, with Padmé gladly helping them out. The meeting lasted for about an hour, and then it was time for her to go home.

"Thank you for everything," she called, waving to the Gungans.

"Yousa come back to visit us," Boss Nass returned, waving back to her.

Padmé grinned and swam to the shore, where she dried off and changed back into her regular clothes. They were very simple. Brown boots, a dark blue peasant top, pants, and a vest. She had worn dresses and more stylish garments before her father died, but now this was one of the only outfits she owned.

Aw, I really feel for Padme. But at least the Gungans are nice to her. Never fear, Anakin will be coming up shortly! Flames not allowed, but reviews are more than welcome!