Note 43

Six years after the Trade Federation Invasion on Naboo

2 years later

Queen Amidala,

I assure you that the fact that the Courts sided with the Trade Federation has distressed me greatly. Perhaps if this had not happened, the Trade Federation would not have felt that it could attack the Republic. The riots that occurred on a great many Republic systems last year troubled me. Not only were citizens hurt, but I was attacked several times, personally. Several of these attacks resulted in life-threatening situations. Fortunately, my personal guards found the many bombs that were planted around the Senate building.

As you are no doubt aware, the Senate voted to remove the Trade Federation from the Senate. They did so not only to save my life, but also to preserve the Republic. The Trade Federation is likely to retaliate and strike against us. Count Dooku is reported to have stated that he will join the Trade Federation should they decide to leave the Republic. What is this universe coming to!

My Queen, the Trade Federation is not just a threat to Naboo anymore; it is a threat to the entire Republic! I fear that this situation may lead to war should Count Dooku and the Trade Federation leave the Republic. Let us hope that this does not happen. My hope is that diplomacy will prevent either Count Dooku or the Trade Federation from declaring their independence.

Of course I would do all in my power to protect Naboo, if it would ever be attacked again.

I realize it is difficult for you to believe that Anakin would have changed so much since you last saw him. However, he is 16 years old now, and I have seen his arrogance. He would not give you the time of day that you would be hoping for. He is a Jedi now, and he has more "important" things to consider.

Let me know how life on Naboo is going.

Supreme Chancellor Palpatine

Part 2

Eight years after the Trade Federation invasion of Naboo

Two years later

Senator Amidala – I see that you are following in my footsteps as Senator of Naboo. Congratulations on your election. There is much work to be done in the Senate, of which I'm sure you are capable. It is not an easy position, but it is rewarding.

I must tell you that the next several years will probably not be easy. As you are aware, a man called Count Dooku has declared himself independent of the Republic. He has become the leader of a new government called the Separatists. I do not know what he hopes to accomplish by this, but I will not see this government split in two. I will attempt negotiations with him. Viceroy Gunray has joined this Count Dooku. I have even received an official letter – I must say that it is quite nasty, and it was sent to me. Here it is:

I've had it with your mediocre leadership. You promise many things, but they're all lies! I've had enough of waiting for you to help us out! Dooku will make a far better Chancellor than you, Your Most Unworshipfullness! Well, you'll no longer be any trouble to us! Neimodia has left the Republic!