Note 33

Obi-Wan Kenobi,

It pleases me to hear that young Anakin will like his new assignment. The boy does like to experience a variety when it comes to his assignments. He has told me this many times.

Anakin and I talk about many things – politics, the Republic, and life in general. We do not have specific set topics. Young Skywalker and I are simply friends. What do you talk with any of your friends about? After you have pondered this, you will realize why it is difficult for me to pinpoint exactly what we discuss. I have grown rather fond of him over the years, and I consider him to be a trusted friend.

The boy also speaks highly of you. That is to be expected – you are his Master, and you are one of the best Jedi in the Order. No wonder he admires you.

Thank you, Master Kenobi. I am glad to serve the Republic in the capacity of being the Supreme Chancellor. It is an honor to preside over the Senate. It is not always an easy job, but I do not take my duties lightly. The recent concerns over the Separatists has put the entire galaxy on edge. These are hard times, Master Kenobi.

I hope that there will be no fighting, but I have no control over what the Separatists decide.

It is interesting that you said that it is only a matter of time before the Sith make an attempt on my life. You are not the first Jedi to mention this to me. Master Yoda and Master Windu have both expressed this same concern. I have tried to assure them, as I will attempt to assure you, that I have well trained body guards. You may have noticed the red guards that are in my office. These are specially trained guards that are to kill anyone who is not authorized to enter my office. They have received the highest level of defense training that I know of in the Republic. I have recently increased the number of guards who are present in the Senate chamber itself. These guards have received similar training to my personal red robed guards. They currently guard every entrance into the Senate, at each level. My security staff has created action plans should anyone make an attempt on my life. Oh, I do not believe that a Sith Lord will be able to kill me, nor anyone else. I am quite protected here.

Do inform me how your mission of protecting Senator Amidala goes. I hope that there are no more threats on her life.

Supreme Chancellor Palpatine