Hello everyone! I have returned again! It's been a few weeks since I last updated and thankfully I've finished this Chapter!
I hope you all enjoy reading this!
Chapter 5: Paths Crossed
Sounds of ambulances and local police wailed around the landing platform.
Flames engulfed the wreckage of what was once an elegant and shining cruiser.
Above the smoke, there was Son Goku and the people he saved, levitating in the sky with his white flames surrounding his body.
"Sheesh, that was a close one." Goku told himself.
Cordè and the three guards were saved in a nick of time from getting vaporized by the cruiser's sudden explosion with the use of his Aura like a smooth flaming shield.
The other two pilots, on the other hand, Goku had to throw them on almost the edge of the platform from the explosion. He used enough of his strength to throw them lightly with only a slight ache on their bodies from too much impact.
No one died.
He mused. What caused the explosion in the first place? Was there a bomb inside? He couldn't sense any sudden energy erupting from any of the surroundings.
Goku slowly hovered down, putting the four people back on the landing platform gently.
He turned to Padmè, Captain Typho, and other witnesses who kept gaping at him as if they'd just seen a miracle happen before their eyes.
Goku looked at them strangely. "Hey, guys? Why do you all keep staring at me like that?"
If there was a possibility in their physicality, their jaws could have dropped onto the floor from what they just heard… and with that, they defied it with relative ease.
Padmè finally responded. "Why?-Why are we?... You– you literally flew!- Hover! Levitate! FLYING! You were flying!"
"Okay. So…?" Goku cocked his head to the other side. What was strange for them about him flying? Have they not witnessed a person flying before in their life?
"SO?! You didn't even tell me you can fly!" Padmè let out a loud voice, she was trying to comprehend anything that was happening right now.
"And this… white fire surrounding you and the others you carried. What was that? Was that some shield that your people in the other galaxy invented?... Do you have the force?" Typho asked, finally getting the words out of his mouth.
It wasn't just that he was flying, he was also capable of carrying the four people with relative ease.
"Ummm, I'm not a Jedi so no I don't have the force, but I do have Ki… unless they're the same thing… or something." Goku answered.
"Key?" Both asked in unison.
"No no. Ki." Goku corrected them.
"That's what we said. A key." Padmè said with a confused look.
"No no, it's not key, a Ki… 'K' and 'I'." He corrected them again. "A Ki energy signature. It's similar to how you um describe the Force… kinda."
Padmè eyed him for a moment. "So… you're like a Jedi in a way?"
"Umm… I guess so. Maybe? I can't really say much because I haven't met any Jedi yet nor seen what they can do." Goku said.
Padmè once again had her jaw dropped. Never had she expected that this martial artist who ate his food like a rancor beast, and was as kind and gentle as an innocent child, could be someone who had these fantastic abilities.
"You never told me you had a power like that." Padmè said. "I thought that you were just a martial artist."
"I am a martial artist."
"A martial artist who is capable of flying!... or with someone that has 'Ki' stuff you have." Padmè countered.
"Well… In my defense, I thought you guys already knew about that stuff." Goku defended as he let out a nervous laugh.
"What we expected was a martial artist that has advanced technology. Not a space wizard… or a superhuman." Another voice came out.
The three turned and saw Cordè who was now standing with her hair being a curly mess. The guards also stood up along with the other two pilots who were now close to earshot of the conversation.
Padmè immediately hugged her friend. Her thoughts were so jumbled on what just happened that she forgot that her close friend was alive and well "Oh, Cordè I thought I lost all of you there."
"Ooh, your hair is a mess, Cordè. Sorry about that. Hehe." Goku apologized. Scratching his head with a chuckle.
Cordè curled her lips into a smile. "It's fine, Goku. If anything I, the guards, and the pilots should be thanking you for saving us. I don't think we could have survived with a blast like that."
"My head feels dizzy though." One of the guards said, holding his head, trying to keep himself from falling down.
"You said it… but hey, we're alive so you have our thanks, Mr. Son." The other guard said.
Cordè and the other five people bowed to their savior.
"Hey, you guys don't have to bow at me like that! I'm just glad that I got all of you out in time." Goku happily said and turned towards the burning wreckage of the once beautiful cruiser. "Speaking of… why did it explode anyway?"
"Someone must have put a bomb before we left." Captain Typho said. A slight pang of guilt came out from his voice believing that he failed his task. "I have no idea how but they must have slipped past our tight security before we even noticed it. A bounty hunter, perhaps."
Padmè's expression turned dark. "And I have an idea who hired that bounty hunter."
"Who?" Goku asked. Why would someone like to have her dead?
"Count Dooku." She answered.
"Count Dooku?"
"Count Dooku of Serenno. He's the one who holds leadership in the Separatist Movement. The people who were once members of the Republic separated themselves from it and joined his side, and slowly grew in power." Captain Typho explained to the Saiyan.
"I see… but still I don't understand why he wants her dead. She's not a bad person." Goku asked.
"Because I'm not just a senator of the Galactic Republic, Goku. I'm also one of the many senators who opposed the separation in the first place. I believe that it won't do any good for the people… and not everyone likes me at all for opposing their ideals and reasons even if some of them are understandable. Not to mention, there's also the Trade Federation aligned with the Separatist Movement." Padmè said. She spat at the word Trade Federation in disgust for almost ruining her home.
Goku slowly nodded his head in understanding. "Oh, I understand. Is there a chance that this 'Dooku ' person would try to kill you again?"
Padmè nodded in dismay. "Probably… I wouldn't be surprised at all if there's another assassination attempt on my life."
"Then it's best to get you to the Senate Building quickly before a bounty hunter is gonna make another attempt. The voting is about to start soon." Captain Typho advised.
"Let's go then. Goku, just follow us. Okay?" Padmè said.
He nodded. "Okay. Lead the way."
As they headed towards this 'Senate Building', Son Goku gazed around the thousands of metallic skyscrapers. The flying cars, swoop bikes, and starships were like ants moving in a linear line, he never expected it to be so gigantic, he could feel an energy of billions… no… trillions of people in this massive world of Coruscant. For certain, it was far larger than Earth.
At the same time, he felt a massive scale of strange flux of energy on two specific points. On one side, he felt the brightness of pure energy filled with peace and calmness, flowing with rhythm.
On the other hand, there was darkness, unlike the other one, this dark power he felt was filled with hatred… malice.
Its presence was almost equal or darker as…
Frieza.
And from what he could tell, it seemed like that was the direction they were heading straight to.
Was there a chance he was going to fight an opponent that could give him a challenge? He would be excited to see that happening but he also hoped that if this scenario were to happen, he would make sure no one would get into the crossfire.
He mused. Were those strange energies from both sides the power of the force? He could not properly scale it in comparison to Ki sensing. It felt similar…yet completely different.
For now, he would have to follow his new friend's lead.
The Senate Rotunda.
A massive silver drum-shaped building that scaled two kilometers wide. While it was not as tall as any other existing skyscrapers around it, it was said that to destroy this building itself must have the power capable enough to bring destruction to an entire planet.
The people called this gigantic structure the most invulnerable facility that had ever existed in the galaxy.
There was another accurate description of it.
It was the true heart of the Galactic Republic.
Inside the dome structure, there was a massive circular chamber.
The center was dominated by a podium used by a Supreme Chancellor, the Vice Chair, and the Senior Administrative Aide to coordinate the session. Around them contained thousands of repulsor pods which were used by the delegation of each Senator from member systems.
This was called the Grand Convocation Chamber or in other words, the Senate Arena.
In the middle of the podium, there stood Supreme Chancellor Sheev Palpatine. There he listened to almost endless discussions between senate after senate and debates for Bills to create an army to protect their worlds at all times from the looming threat of a civil war.
Each voice grew louder and angrier as time went by. Both make counterarguments towards the other. Their words were like swords parrying from one end to another until the opponent admitted defeat.
When one side was slowly on the edge of falling from their mouthful battle, they made a new counterattack, points that could gain their favor, when the other was also slowly losing their mark, they likewise invented a new counter against the other.
And it was slowly getting worse by the minute to the point they may start throwing hands at each other's throats like wild animals.
Some even counter that it wasn't even related to the main topic at all as if they were sputtering nonsense for more discord.
Wretched fools.
Could they not even be more pathetic than they already are? Sidious thought in disgust. Oh, how the mighty Republic has fallen from her grace.
If it were the old days, Perhaps the Senate wouldn't have to start acting like blinded fools who could not even understand what they were saying and the consequences of their actions… or perhaps even back then they were still horrendous.
Fallen by their own greed.
Fallen by their own stupidity.
Fallen from grace.
They were nothing but greedy and woeful animals who would take what they wanted.
Truly pathetic.
They deserved nothing but torment. It was a laughable sight.
And their incompetence and foolish endeavor would help achieve his grand plan that had been evolving for millennia.
To him, the senate was cattle and he was the Shepherd.
One of Palpatine's aides, Uv Gizen spoke up. "They are afraid, Supreme Chancellor. Many have heard reports of the demonstration, even violent activities near this building. The Separatist–"
Palpatine raised his hand to stop him from speaking any further. "They are nothing but a troublesome group. It seems that Count Dooku has whipped them into a murderous frenzy. The Separatist must be taken seriously."
The aide tried to speak once more but the Chancellor held up his finger to silence him. He turned and nodded at Mas Amedda, the blue-skinned humanoid with large lethorn head tentacles. He was one of the imposing figures of their group.
The Vice-chair stepped up as he roared for calling. "Order! We shall have order!"
Some voices from the senate were getting quiet but others remained the same as they too now roared back at Mas Amedda.
"Senators, please!" Mas Amedda called out again. His voice echoed throughout the massive chamber. "Indeed, we have much to discuss. Important issues needed to be solved but the motion before us at this time, to commission an army to protect the Republic takes precedence! This is what we will vote on at this time, and that alone! Other businesses must defer."
Again, more complaints came back to the Vice-chair.
Palpatine remained still. Listening to the growing noise from the senate, going back into their own battles.
The sound of a beep was heard on his control desk. He eyed the message thoroughly.
Ah... Senator Amidala has been assassinated…
Whenever the people saw them together in a few discussions and sessions, they believed that they were friends and it was true… as a gentle and humble Chancellor.
For Sidious however, Padmè Naberie Amidala was… almost a thorn in Palpatine's side. She had been thwarting a few of his plans from escalating more violence between the Republic and the Separatists.
For a time, he considered her nothing more but a nuisance, a young woman who held no interest in the Dark Lord other than using her as a means for the Trade Federation to create a blockade on Naboo. But during her time as Queen and now Senator, she was a fierce woman. Whatever trade that could make her retire or ignore something, she turned them down and continued fighting.
Thus slowing part of his plans more than what was expected.
And for that, he wanted her to be removed… permanently.
She had survived countless assassination attempts, she was… a stubborn and lucky womp rat. But it was only a matter of time before her luck ran out.
And today was the day.
Or perhaps that was what he thought at first.
Given her history as former Queen and now Senator, she tended to have her decoys around to save her own flesh and blood, and even without them, she was capable enough to handle herself.
So there was a chance that she would once again survive another attempt.
If she survived the attempt.
For now, as a kind and gentle Chancellor, he would play his act.
He slowly stepped onto the podium, and for that action alone, the entire chamber rigidly went quiet.
Mas Amedda bowed to him in deterrence as he stepped aside, allowing Palpatine to take the lead.
Chancellor Palpatine placed his hands on the rims of the podium, his shoulders were noticeably sagging, his head bowed in sadness.
"My esteemed colleagues… I have received words from outside this great chamber… a tragic and disturbing news. Senator Padmè Amidala has been… assassinated."
A shockwave of silence surrounds the Senate chamber, their mouths hung down in disbelief.
"This grievous blow is personal to me." Palpatine said, his eyes swelled up with tears. Fake tears that seemed real enough.
"Before I became a Chancellor, I was a senator of Naboo, serving Padmè Amidala as she was once the Queen. She was a fierce and great leader to me, and my people. She was a leader of justice. No matter how hard and high the obstacles, she always found a way to overcome them. She was the best of us all."
"She was so beloved by my people that she could have been elected Queen for life! But alas she did not… she fervently believed in democracy. She never used the opportunity that could have given her so much power that she truly deserved. She was a humble and kind person to heart. Her death is a great loss to us all…. We will mourn her as we lost the relentless champion of freedom… and a dear friend."
The chamber of the senate remained still, other senators mourned at the loss of this wonderful person. Some were ashamed that they once disliked the Senator herself.
Some on the other hand…
"How many more senators will die before this civil war strife ends?!" One of the Senators, a representative of Malastre, Ask Aak, maneuvered his repulsor pod close to the Chancellor's podium.
"This action from these rebels has gone on long enough! We must confront them now before they strike back again! We must have an army to squash these rebels to dust!" The Senator of Malastre roared.
At such bold statements, there were few conversations that slowly began and moments later another cry of rage came and several platforms moved at once.
"Why weren't the Jedi able to stop this assassination?!" demanded Darsana. A blue-haired, scrunch-faced being. An ambassador of Glee Anselm. "How obvious it is that we are no longer safe under the protection of the Jedi!"
"I agree! The Republic needs an army more than ever! We must not be defenseless for long!" spoke Senator Orn Free Taa, a representative of the Twi'lek. "The Republic needs more security now!"
"Our priority is to create peace and unity between the Republic and the Separatists. Not war." Supreme Chancellor Palpatine interjected.
"Isn't Senator Padmè your friend? Should you not be angered by the fact that she was assassinated by the hands of the Separatist that you are still trying to negotiate?!" Senator Ask Aak asked loudly. The cries and roars erupted in the chamber. Their fists or hands waved in the air with their explosive point.
Palpatine did nothing but stare at the Senator and with action only made Ask Aak more furious.
Palpatine could only huff in annoyance internally,
Darth Sidious widened his eyes at this unexpected feeling.
Again, he felt a disturbance in the force.
And again, the force screamed
The dark side called out to him.
The entity is here.
Sidious stretched out with the force, there he felt it.
It was a massive one.
So much brightness.
This anomaly was a cancer.
This anomaly was an abomination.
Where is it?
Is it a person?
A weapon?
An invisible entity?
He could feel it was getting closer.
Does it come to destroy him?
Does it know his dark secrets?
"Chancellor!" A familiar voice of a young woman called out.
Sidious turned his head towards the source and saw Padmè Amidala alive in the flesh.
She was alive after all.
Palpatine turned his expression into a wide smile but on the inside, he was disappointed that the assassination attempt was once again a failure. Then again, it was expected from her given her history. She would have to die for some other time. The woman may try but in the end, she could only prolong the inevitable.
"WOAH! THIS PLACE IS SO HUGE!"
Another voice yelled in shock. Some senators who heard tried to search for the source but returned back to their squabbling.
"Goku! Not too loud!"
Padmè whispered at him angrily, controlling herself from smacking him on the head.
Sidious turned to see a young man who seemed to be the same age as her, he wore casual Naboo clothes and had spiky black hair. He was scratching his head with a light apologetic smile, and then his eyes widened a bit and turned his head around and it seemed like he was staring right at him–
He felt another surge from the force.
Do not show!
Hide!
Cease!
Conceal!
With instinct, Sidious immediately cut himself from staring at him and went on to eye the young Naboo senator instead as he concealed himself.
It was so sudden.
The dark side was calling to him.
The dark side was warning him.
There he realized.
It was him.
Sweat was forming on his head.
His heart pounded rapidly.
He could feel this entity's stare.
It was him!
The presence he was looking for after many nights when the dark side called out to him in a warning.
He finally found it. Him.
Sidious could feel the hidden strength this man pose
His power was not like anything he had seen. In fact, no Sith nor Jedi had ever experienced such power.
It felt like the force but it wasn't.
Similar yet hugely different.
Instead of external, it was internal.
Instead of surrounding him, it was inside him.
He felt his power could implode worlds and star systems.
A power that was controlled by him.
Describing such power hidden was like a sun that could have gone supernova from a cage, a cage that could be easily opened when needed.
It was almost blinding.
Where did this man come from?
Why did this man come here?
How much power did this man contain?
"Chancellor Palpatine."
He broke out of his trance and saw Padmè looking at him strangely.
He maintained his composure and spoke. "My apologies, Senator Amidala. I had heard that you were assassinated recently on my commlink. I was shocked that you are actually alive and well."
Padmè smiled. "Thankfully, I've survived and I will come to speak regarding the bills of creating the Grand Army of the Republic."
Palpatine gestured at the senate who was still shouting at each other. "By all means, my friend. Lead the way."
Padmè nodded as she was preparing to take over the chamber. Darth Sidious eyed the man she was with. He wasn't looking at him anymore but cautiousness filled the Dark Lord's mind.
He would have to keep playing along. More safe. Slowly he touched the dark side of the force, returning it to him but slowly without risking potential danger to him by this strange being.
Until he finds out what he could do to remove him, he would watch him closely with great interest.
Goku felt a powerful dark energy around this chamber, and he was searching for the source of it and the moment his eyes turned to the white-haired man on the podium, it immediately subsided, as if it had hidden itself out of fear.
Could this old man be trying to hide his strange power? The Saiyan pondered. He doesn't seem much on the outside and from the looks of it, he seemed like a good person but there's a part of him that Goku seemed to feel unnerved by this 'Chancellor'. Even with the darkness gone, he could feel fear… and a maliciousness behind the old gentleman.
Was he tricking him into believing that he was a good man? Or was he actually a good man that he could only control the 'dark powers' that were emanating inside of him? Or was it neither and the reason was something else?
"Goku?"
He turned around as she too was staring at him.
"What's wrong, Goku? You were staring at the Chancellor for a moment there."
Goku shook his head. "Oh, well it's nothing. I thought I felt something from him."
"From him? What do you mean?"
"Well… honestly, I'm not really sure myself." Goku admitted.
Padmè nodded her head slowly. "Okay. Just remember, only listen to what I have to say and stay quiet for some time. They don't know you yet so they may see you in a bad way.
Goku nodded in understanding. "Okay. I will, don't worry."
Padmè smiled. She would have to teach him more about this sometimes even if he doesn't seem interested in such kind of politics at all. She also would have to ask him more about the Chancellor. When she saw him staring at her former advisor and her old friend, he looked a bit… uncomfortable.
But that was for another time. Another place.
This time, she had a duty to fulfill.
She turned towards the senate as she spoke.
"My noble colleagues! I concur with Chancellor Palpatine. At all costs, we must avoid war!"
It was quiet for a moment. Then the cheer began again!
"Senator Padme Amidala lives!"
"Rejoice!"
Many senators cheered that the assassination attempt towards Padmè's life failed.
"It is with great surprise and joy that the chair recognizes the Senator from Naboo, Padmè Amidala!" Supreme Chancellor Palpatine declared.
Goku blocked his ear for a moment from all the loud cheers.
Sheesh, this is what her job looks like? Goku thought. I wonder if there's something like that on Earth.
He was curious to see how his newfound friend, Padmè would handle this.
Amidala waited for the cheering and clapping to subside, then began slowly and deliberately. "Senators, less than an hour ago, an assassination was attempted on my life."
She gestured her hand at Goku. "He, by some miracle, saved not just me, but my handmaiden, and five others. There are no words for how much I'm grateful for his good deeds. His name is Son Goku!"
The senators then cheered once more but this time towards the savior of the Senator of Naboo.
"Praise to Son Goku!"
All roared his name with their hands, fists, or tentacles waving in the air.
Goku sheepishly scratched his head with a wave. He wasn't used to this kind of cheer… then again he did attend many world tournaments during his younger days.
Padmè giggled at his response to the crowd of Senators. She seemed to realize that she hadn't properly thanked him for saving her handmaiden, and the others. Her heart would have torn itself into two if Goku wasn't there to save her with his abilities.
She would wish to know him more after this voting was done.
The cheer subsided once again, and Padmè continued.
"More importantly, I believe the security measure before you was the target. I have led an opposition to building an army… but there is someone here who will stop at nothing to assure its passage."
There was another silence, and then what was once a cheer turned into boos in a matter of seconds.
Goku was confused by this. Why didn't Padmé not tell them about a hunch she had earlier at the landing platform? Unless…
"She accuses us?!"
"Madness!"
"This is unacceptable!"
"How dare she accuse us, who cheered for her survival!"
"She's a traitor!"
As the boos grew louder, Padmè Amidala only stood there and gaze around the vast circular room. She knew that her words on the surface seemed more of an insult towards the Republic Senators but in truth, she considered telling them that it was Dooku or Nute Gunray, if her hunch was correct, then it would lead them more into rage and vote on creating an army and then turn into a civil war. She would have to keep that suspicion to herself and her trusted friends, and colleagues.
"I warn you to not vote to create an army. It would only lead to more destruction and more suffering! The Separatists would never let their worlds plunder into chaos! You all know of my history as a Queen of Naboo, the Trade Federation brought deaths and suffering upon us. I HAVE EXPERIENCED A GLIMPSE OF WAR! I HAVE EXPERIENCED THE MISERY AND INSANITY OF IT! I do not wish to experience this again nor will I allow ourselves to plunge into another war that could threaten our entire home galaxy!"
Goku listened intently. He was enthralled by her words. He could feel the pain within her voice.
He was born as a Saiyan when his late brother told him about the history of their race. He was disgusted. He hated everything that his people did. To kill, conquer, and bring war and suffering to others who did not even deserve it. To know the entire truth hurt him in his core and he was thankful he hit his head on a rock, Kami and Kais knew Earth would have suffered the same fate as the other worlds that the Saiyan invaded.
Never would he even stoop to such a level. He may have accepted his Saiyan heritage but he would never do such an atrocity. He would never be his brother, he would never be like Vegeta even though Frieza himself ruled the entire Saiyan race.
He would stay who he truly was, a Saiyan who was raised on Planet Earth by his amazing adoptive grandfather Gohan, Son Goku.
The cheer began outweighing the booing. Goku could hear the mutters from the Senators around him and Padmé.
"Perhaps she has spoken true!"
"She knows the misery of war! We should listen to her!"
"But what if war is the only solution to this crisis?!"
"I do not wish to have my home succumb to destruction."
Some on the other hand.
"This is insanity I say!"
Goku turned to look at the source of the voice. There he saw a blue-skinned man with large weird tentacles on both sides of his head, and his body was large, or most notably his belly from eating too much without even a chance to work out.
"I move that we defer this vote, immediately!" Senator Orn Free Taa yelled.
"Senators! Wake up! You must wake up!" Padmè went on, shouting him down. "If we offer the Separatist violence then they would only do so in return! Many will lose their lives, their families, your people, your children! All of them will lose their freedom. This decision could well destroy the very foundation of our great Republic! I pray you do not let fear push you into a disastrous decision. Vote down this security measure, which is nothing less than a declaration of war! Does anyone here want that?! I cannot believe they do!"
The chamber was filled with echoes of cheers and boos, while some disagreed with Amidala's reasons, others understood.
From the eyes of many, she had just cheated death once again just recently and here she was… begging them not to create an army, not to make war on the Separatists, not to shed blood on others. She was once the Queen of her world, Naboo. A world of beauty that could be rivaled by some such as the Alderaan. She had experienced the invasion, she had witnessed her people suffer at the hands of the Trade Federation, she could have led a war for her people, she could have demanded vengeance but no, instead she prayed that their worlds should not resort to war, she prayed and begged that peace should be maintained, she begged not for herself but for the entire living people of the galaxy. This was the reason why many respected and admired the selfless and humble Senator of Naboo. As moments passed by, more cheer came for her plea.
The three senators, Ask Aak, Orn Free Taa, and Darsana on their respective platforms exchanged glances and they both nodded their heads, knowing that their battle in this chamber was lost… for now but there would be next time for them.
For that, Senator Orn Free Taa spoke once more in a demanding tone. "By the precedence of order, my motion to defer the vote must be dealt with first."
Padmé Amidala glared at the Twi'lek, frustrated and angry at this obvious delay of tactics. Goku was still confused about how the senators reacted and responded then again he had no experience with such things but he could feel Padmé's frustration growing inside.
"Excuse me?" Goku called out, his voice was loud enough for the entire senate chamber to look at him and Padmé doing the same with a shocked expression on her face. She was about to call him to stop but unfortunately for her, it was already too late as he started to speak.
"You guys don't like war right?" Goku asked. "If so, why do you guys want to create an army if it would only escalate it?"
His question was genuine but some senators looked at him in surprise for another reason entirely. Was it not allowed for a person who was not a member of the Senate to talk in the Senate chamber?
And others did not take that question well.
"How dare you speak in the Senate Chamber?!" Senator Ask Aak roared. "Senator Padmé Amidala has not given you the right to say a word on her behalf!"
"But still, I'm asking you or anyone here, why create an army? If anything, maybe having a protector or guardians? Or maybe… talk things out for you know… a better outcome?"
"What do you even think we were doing you fool?!"
"This man has no understanding in this chamber!"
"He must be removed from the chamber immediately!"
"Arrest him!"
The senate erupted in rage. Padmè cringed at their harsh words toward him. She couldn't blame him given he had no particular understanding of this kind of job.
And while he did make a mistake by stepping over the line by speaking, that doesn't mean she wouldn't defend him at all. Not after what he'd done to save her friend, the guards, and the pilots who could have died if it hadn't been for him.
"You will not speak to him that way!" Padmé defended. "While yes, he has stepped a boundary he should not cross here. His good deeds must not be tarnished by this mistake! I promised him that I would help him to find his way back to his galaxy!"
The Senate chamber went silent again. Did they just hear what they just heard coming from her mouth?
"What do you speak of, Senator Padmé?" Mon Mothma asked. She moved her repulsor pod closer to her. "Are you saying that this man who saved your fellow handmaiden hails from another galaxy?"
Padmé nodded. "Yes."
Sounds of voices filled with shock echoed.
"A man from another galaxy?!"
"There is life outside!"
"A civilization!"
"Which galaxy does he come from?!"
Most of the Senators voiced their own questions and astonished, on the podium, Chancellor Palpatine looked towards Son Goku with interest.
From another galaxy she says? Would that explain his unknown power. Sidious thought.
He would have to know more about this Son Goku character but for now.
"While we are interested to know more about this foreigner, we have distracted ourselves from discussing more for the vote on creating a new army for the Republic and we will take up these matters tomorrow." Chancellor Palpatine ordered. "Until then, the Senate stands adjourned."
"I'm sorry."
Goku and Padmé were walking in the hallway, more people, or most notably, reporters and journalists including a small flying droid wanted to ask Goku more questions but Captain Typho and the Royal guards of Naboo halted them in their tracks while Cordè and another handmaiden, Dormè who came from Padmè's apartment walked behind the foreigner and the Senator.
He still felt guilty for stepping over the line and had broken his words for not intervening in any way in the Senate Chamber. Padmé turned her head towards him and sighed and gave him a slight smile.
"You don't have to apologize, Goku. You're still new with these kinds of stuff."
"But still, I promised not to speak back there." Goku said. His shoulder slumped down. "It's just that I was wondering why they were speaking like that and it kinda made me want to… you know… say something."
Padmé let out a light chuckle. "Well you might be the first person who is not a member to ever speak that way in the Senate Chamber, but as I said, you're still new to Politics and the rules here Coruscant.
"I guess… where are we going next?" Goku asked, having no clue what to do next. "Are we going to meet the Jedi people you were talking about?"
"We'll meet them at the Chancellor's office on the Senate Office building next from here along with Bail Organa and Horox Ryder, the Loyalist committees." Padmè told him. "I've heard from Captain Typho that the Chancellor will have a meeting with the Jedi Council."
"Ooh, I see. That explains why I sensed a strong energy in one spot."
Padmè looked at him incredulously. "Sense? You could also sense someone?
Goku nodded in response. "Mhm. It's a really useful ability when I need to find someone."
Padmè was amazed. How many more abilities does this man have? At this point, Son Goku could be a full-fledged Jedi but instead of the force it was this 'Ki' he mentioned.
"Okay… so you can fly, that's already done, you seemed like a strong person too given that you literally carried Cordè and the guards with ease, not to mention throwing the pilots in time… which should be impossible because they were still inside of the ship…"
"I trained myself to move super fast too." Goku added.
"... any other else?"
Goku nodded again and Padmè's eyes widened once more and put her palm on her head. "Wow… I honestly have no words to say. Like… how did you not show this to me back then?"
"Welp… hehe, now that you said it, I don't think I found an opportunity to show it to you, I was reaaaally hungry that time and then got hungry again back at your home, and then… yeah no opportunity." Goku explained.
Besides meditating or Ki-sensing, he actually never showed it to her, not because he didn't want to hide it from her, it seemed like everything was going so fast that there was no time at all despite being around for seven days in a Royal Cruiser.
Padmè could only sigh at that answer. "I guess you're right about all that. It's amazing I only found out about it recently and not way back in my world."
She then asked. "Are you the only one in your galaxy who has this power?"
"Oh nah! There's a lot of people who have it!" Goku told her. "If it hadn't been for them, I would never have reached this kind of power."
"I see…"
If there were others who had these abilities, how powerful could they be? How powerful Goku could be?
It was quiet again for both of them, the only sound was from each Senator around them, voicing their concerns and such. Much like in Naboo, Goku could see a lot more humanoid and alien-like races. Some looked at Goku with either liking or distaste but kept their comments away from earshot.
Padmè pondered more about his powers. If it hadn't been for him, the guards could have died, the pilots could have died, Cordè could have…
She spoke. "Goku."
"Yeah?"
"Thank you."
"Hm? For what?" Goku asked.
"For saving the guards, the pilots, my close friend, Cordé. I've experienced war as a Queen, and I have witnessed torment, deaths, and all the horrible things that I've seen even as I traveled throughout other worlds as a Senator. You have no idea… how thankful I am that you saved them, especially when they were only targeting me. It hurts me so much how my close people always jumped their way to save my life even if it's for the good of the people. I've always hate the fact that people I cared about kept on– kept on giving up their lives… for mine. Even though I understood. I hated it. Thank you, Goku… thank you for giving them a chance to live on."
Padmè had seen people come and go throughout her life and her heart was torn from it piece by piece. The fact that she almost lost Cordè from that last attempt, oh, how much it slowly killed her inside
Goku saw her eyes radiate with tears as they threatened to get out and soon it trickled down her cheek. She was still smiling but a frail one and slowly broken down. Goku saw her as a fierce, courageous, and kindest woman even if he didn't know much about Politics, he could see the fire of determination inside her, determined to never give up, determined to never falter her morality, she would always step up and make sure that the people of this Republic would stand together for peace. Goku admired her for that, it reminded him in some ways. He was considered a low-class warrior by the 'Elites' but always determined to stand up, always pushing past his limit, and no matter what, he would never let himself become strong by doing the deeds that the Sayains like Vegeta, and Nappa had done in their life. He will become stronger but he will do it his way.
But of course, despite her strong will, there should have been times that she needed to vent her frustrations, to let the stress out instead of letting it bubble inside. She needed this, and what she also needed… a sign of comfort.
He placed his right hand on her head gently as she jumped at his unexpected action albeit momentarily.
"You don't have to thank me, Padmé." Goku assured her with a smile. "As I said, I'm just glad that I managed to save them."
"Why shouldn't I thank you?" Padmè sniffed, trying to fight the tears back from letting it out even further. "You should know how much it hurts… losing someone you cared for."
Padmè's eyes widened, realizing her mistake of words. She shouldn't have said that. Of course, Goku knew of the loss, his wife passed away two years ago, and she saw him crying back at the house.
Regretting it, Padmè quickly apologized. "Oh, stars. I shouldn't have said that. Goku, I'm so sorry–"
"Hey, relax, Padmè." Goku reassured her. His smile wasn't faltering. "I'm not hurt nor insulted when you mentioned my late wife and how I felt about her passing. You almost lost your close friend earlier so I understand what you're saying there."
"You… you really are a strange one, Goku." Padmè sniffed but this time smiling as she wiped her tears away.
"Hehe." Goku was happy that she was getting better now with his help. When Goku, and his son, Gohan lost Chi-Chi, it took a toll on them, so they hung around with their friends more often, it helped them out greatly and while the pain was still there, they were getting better as time went by.
"There really are so many more things to know about you after all." Padmè giggled.
"I could say the same thing about you! You know so much about your galaxy here, not to mention that Count Dooku guy."
Padmè gave him a smile. "As the first native of this galaxy you've met, I'll be honored to tell you more about here."
"As long as you tell me about yours too." She winked at him. Goku grinned at this and gave her a thumbs-up. "I will! That's a promise I'll never break!"
Another growl came in.
No… Padmé thought in dismay. Not again…
"Goku, really?…at the worst time?"
Goku gulped and sheepishly laughed. "Maybe… a small snack?"
A small snack? That might just be the biggest lie Goku had ever told her yet. No, she doubted that 'small snack' would suffice but since the Chancellor's office was still a bit far away, and the other Loyalist members including Senator Bail Organa were in the dining commons for a short break, she supposed there was no harm to have that.
She could only pray that Goku's hunger would not make the other Senators think of him in a bad light.
But still, she doubted it.
And with a sigh of resignation, Padmé turned her head towards Cordè who also heard his growl and gave her a look of sympathy.
Dormè who was still confused about it. "What was that growl, Cordè?"
"You'll know soon enough, Dormè."
Bail Prestor Organa's stress could not be any higher. He had a small beard on his chin and wore dark blue robes.
He had been a Senator of Alderaan for over ten years now. He and the loyalist members had tried their hardest to end the growing disloyalty among the members of the Republic but alas it was in vain as more and more star systems embarked on a mass exodus to join the Separatists led by Count Dooku of Sereno, a former Jedi Master.
He took a glass of water for refreshments as he drank it. It was getting worse with each passing day and he wondered what he could have done, what other solutions for this major crisis to end.
"Calm yourself, Senator Organa. We just finished a heated discussion from the Chamber not too long ago."
Besides Bail, there stood another Senator, Horox Ryyder. A very tall Anx even for his species reaching four meters in maturity. He had yellow-green skin and axis-shaped fingers, as well as a bearded head-shaped crescent moon. He was an imposing stature among the senate but he was well known for his patience and insight.
"Forgive me, Senator Ryyder but most of the senate are now at odds when it comes to the vote, and if– no, when that day comes that an Army will be created–"
"Thinking too much about that will not help our situation at all." Horrox Ryyder told him.
"Well, what am I supposed to do? Stand and do nothing?" He countered.
"Of course not, but letting yourself dwell will only make it worse for you."
Bail sighed. "Still, I need to relieve my frustrations here even if it's only around a minute or two. We'll have to head over to the Chancellor's office soon to discuss this matter."
"With Senator Padmé Amidala along." Horrox added.
He nodded. "Indeed. Thankfully, she managed to survive another assassination attempt. How many times does this happen to her again? Ten? Twenty? I've lost count."
"This time, it was thanks to the man, who is not even a member of the Senate but also from another galaxy just speaking out to the Senate like that."
"Yes, thanks to him indeed."
"Do you think she spoke the truth about him?" Horox asked.
"I don't know. Senator Amidala rarely lies unless needed but even if he does come from another galaxy, that doesn't stop a crisis we're currently having."
Bail had no opinions for this 'Son Goku' character, while yes he had saved his good friend, Padmè Amidala. He doesn't know much about him at all. Unless there was an opportunity to meet him in the future.
"I'd like to believe he's a good person." Mon Mothma said, setting her datapad aside on the table. "He seems to be good friends with Senator Amidala."
Bail shrugged. "We can only tell in time."
"And that time is now it seems." Mon Mothma gestured at the door as Padmè Amidala and Goku strode inside the restaurant.
"Senator Amidala." Mon Mothma greeted.
"Senator Mon Mothma, Senator Bail and Ryyder." Padmè greeted happily with a light bow. "It's good to see you all."
"Likewise, Senator." Bail said. "These are stressful times for all of us."
Padmè sighed. "Agreed. I suppose you're taking a small break before heading out to the Chancellor's office?"
Bail nodded. "Indeed I do, this situation is nothing but a mess."
His eyes then turned towards Goku who looked to be quite hungry. "Ah, where are our manners? You're Son Goku, am I correct? It's a pleasure to meet someone who saved a good friend of ours."
"Oh, Hi Mr. Umm…" Goku was trying to remember their names again, but he was too busy staring at the food on each table. He was getting more hungry by the second.
"Senator Bail Organa." He introduced himself and gestured to the other senators. "This is Mon Mothma, Senator of Chandrila, and this is Senator Horor Ryyder, Senator of Anx."
All mentioned Senators bowed at the Saiyan in greeting. Goku sheepishly does the same. "It's nice to meet you guys… so umm are you guys friends of Padmè?"
"Colleagues but yes, we are also friends with Senator Amidala." Mon Mothma said with a smile. "She and we have a lot in common goals for this Republic."
"Ooh, I see… well that's awesome to hear." Goku said.
"You also made quite a commotion back there too." Horor Ryydor said. "Quite a revelation too as Senator Amidala claimed that you reside from another galaxy. Is it true?"
"Oh yup! While I may not know too much about my galaxy, I don't think you guys know about the Namekians, Frieza's Empire, or the Saiyans–"
His stomach growled again, this time it was even louder than it was before. The three senators, including some others, looked at him in surprise. "Is that your stomach growling, Mr. Son?"
"Hehe… yeah…" Goku conceded.
"Here we go…" Padmè muttered under her breath. "Senators, before we head to the Chancellor's office, Let's have him eat his lunch."
Goku looked at Padmè with a confused look. "But, Padmè I thought I said I only need a small snack–"
"Sorry, Goku." Padmè said. "But I doubt your stomach would agree with the term 'snack' so I'll let you have this lunch and this time you're going to finish this faster."
"Fast? Senator Amidala, I don't think we should rush him on his appetite." Bail reasoned. Not understanding why she wanted this foreigner to finish his lunch quicker.
"Oh, just watch how he eats, Bail… you'll see what I mean."
Padmè Amidala then yelled. "Waiter! I'd like to order fifty dishes of any kind of meat you have here immediately please!"
The three loyalist Senators looked at her in shock. What did she just say? Others were also surprised by such an order.
"Fifty dishes of meat?!" Bail sputtered out.
"As I said… just watch."
Next to the Senate Rotunda, there was another massive dome structure but it scaled lower compared to the Senate Chamber. The building alleviated the cramped office conditions in the Senate Building caused by the increased number of seats doled out to new member worlds. Aside from its status as a political administration facility, the Executive Building contained several levels of hangar bays and landing pads for the official transport of government officials.
In the expansive office of the Chancellor located on the highest floor of the Executive Building, the five Jedi Masters sat on their seats in front of Chancellor Palpatine while two royal guards, sworn to protect him until death, stood at each corner of the office. They talked for some time regarding the Creation of a Military Act until this one topic came out.
"This Son Goku you speak of. Came from another galaxy, Senator Amidala claimed?" Yoda asked with interest
Palpatine nodded. "That is what she claimed as you saw on the live. During the discussion, she told us that the young man saved her fellow handmaidens and others during the assassination attempt. How he saved them on the other hand, I still do not know."
"Senator Amidala's claims about him may have been false. Perhaps he lived within the Outer Rims or somewhere in the Unknown Regions." Ki-Adi-Mundi said. The Cerean Jedi Master stood taller than anyone in the room.
"Perhaps." Palpatine hesitantly agreed. "But we will know for sure once we meet them. One of my aides had told me that they are on their way to meet us here."
"Then we will only do nothing but wait patiently for their arrival." Mace Windu declared. "We saw the news about him during our trip to your office. He made quite a stir in the senate."
"Arrested, Son Goku could have been." Yoda added. "Saved him in time, Senator Amidala did."
"What do you think about him, Master Yoda?" Palpatine asked with curiosity.
Yoda hummed. "Uncertain, I feel about him. Great power, I sensed from him."
Mace Windu slowly nodded. "It is true… this power I sensed emanating from him… it's peculiar… honestly, we have been feeling that power since a few days ago back at the temple."
Palpatine looked at them with shock. "Do you mean to tell me that this man could potentially be… dangerous?"
"As I said, Chancellor. Uncertain, I can only say." Yoda told him.
"Hmm.. is it possible that he is a force user?"
The four Jedi looked at each other with concern and turned back towards the Chancellor.
"That is another thing, his power… doesn't appear to be one with the force."
"What do you mean?" Palpatine inquired.
Plo Koon continued. He was a tall, sturdy Kel Dor, his head ridged and ruffled at the sides like the curly hair of a young girl, and with dark, shadowed eyes and a black mask over the lower portion of his face. "While we can sense him with the ability of the Force, his power doesn't seem to belong in the force entirely. If Senator Amidala's claims are proven correct, then it is possible that his strange powers could come from another source."
"Which is from another galaxy… but that would never have made any sense since the force itself is everything, whether they are plants, grass, the stars. So perhaps his power is the force but entirely different compared to what we know and use." Mace Windu finished.
"I see then…" Palpatine said.
He could sense his presence closing in and the Jedi felt it as well.
A blue hologram appeared on the Chancellor's desk. It was one of his aides, Dar Wac. "Your Excellency, the loyalist committees have arrived along with Son Goku"
"Good. Send them in." Palpatine ordered.
Dar Wac bowed as the hologram disappeared. Palpatine rose from his seat as the main door slid open.
They saw Bail Organa and Horox Ryder coming in, and next, there was Captain Typho and three Royal Naboo Guards, and the two handmaidens, Cordè and Dormè.
Lastly came Padmè Amidala…
And the foreigner, Son Goku.
"Ah, Senator Amidala! It's truly good to see you–"
Palpatine halted as he looked closely and realized that the loyalist committees, Senator Amidala, and Goku's stature seemed like they just survived a terrible massacre.
"Uh…" Palpatine started. "What happened to you all?"
Padmè whistled uncharacteristically looking out of the window as if avoiding the question, the other two Senators were a different matter entirely.
Bail Organa stared at the Chancellor for a moment then turned to Goku, then back to him and the cycle repeated about four more times until he finally said.
"He happened."
The four Jedi and Palpatine turned towards the man to blame for whatever mess just happened.
Goku immediately defended himself. "Hey! I was really hungry, you know!"
"Hungry…" Bail let out a laugh. "Yes, so hungry you almost closed down the entire restaurant!"
"Almost closed down a restaurant?..." Mace Windu repeated.
"Eating those fifty dishes… he ordered another fifty more!" Bail said. He turned towards the Naboo Senator. "Padmè. You knew this would happen."
Padmè sighed as she shrugged. "I did warn you. It actually happened back at Naboo from one of the diners."
"No, you did not." Bail retorted. "You only said just watch."
"It's still a warning. I sort of gave up after fifty dishes after knowing him more."
Bail eyed Padmè for a moment, turned back to Goku once more, and sighed. "You better not decide on heading to my homeworld soon, Mr. Son."
Goku could only laugh nervously at that response.
"Hmm… Son Goku, you must be."
Goku heard his name mentioned and turned to see an old green alien with a small cane and long ears. He felt a powerful radiance of strange energy surrounding him. He was uncertain how powerful it could be, it wasn't his Ki energy… or was it? This power that they had seemed like an external and it appeared similar…
Genki Dama, the Spirit Bomb.
The force binds everything, Padmè told him so.
Was this the power of the force?
Was this force the reason he couldn't contact outside this galaxy?
He waved his hands to the green man as he greeted him with a smile. "Yup! My name is Goku alright!"
Yoda eyed him closely. Like Goku, the Grandmaster could also sense a huge amount of power. A power he had never seen in his entire life. It was not the force… yet so similar. But unlike the force, this power was internal. While attaining such tremendous power within him, he could feel no evil in his mind and heart. He felt nothing but pure goodness of heart.
The Jedi Grandmaster gently bowed his head down in greetings. "To meet the person who saved a young kind senator, please I am."
He introduced himself. "Yoda, Jedi Master. I am."
"Oooh, it's a pleasure to meet you, Master Yoda." Goku bowed the same. "I could sense this power you have! You must be really strong!"
"You could sense him and us, Mr. Son?"
Goku turned to Mace Windu, sensing a strong level of power within him as well as the other Jedi Masters. "Yup! I could easily detect energy. When I got here with Padmè, I already sensed a high amount of power of individuals here." He explained. "Oh, and you are…?"
"Mace Windu. High Council Jedi Master." Mace introduced himself and gestured to the other Jedi Masters. "This is Plo Koon, Kit Fisto, and Ki Adi Mundi. They too are also the High Council Jedi Masters."
Goku inspected them. "Wow, it's great to meet you all. Padmè told me all about you guys back at Naboo."
"You never heard of us?" Ki-Adi-Mundi asked.
Goku shook his head. "Nope. I only know you guys thanks to Padmè."
Kit-Fisto, a Nautolan male with green skin, large black eyes, and a gathered tangle of flexible tentacle tresses extending from his head, inspected him with interest. "Interesting. While it is common that some worlds have little to no knowledge about our Jedi Order. I am curious to know how Senator Amidala found you."
Padmè Amidala stepped in. "We found his space pod crashing down next to me and my handmaiden. He was severely injured but he managed to fully recover with only a few scars."
Goku nodded. "Yup, I never recognized anything here at all and Padmè told me that you guys can help me find a way home."
"What is the name of your world, Mr. Son?" Plo Koon asked.
"It's Earth." He answered.
The five Jedi Masters glanced at each other and turned back to the foreigner.
"We are not familiar with the name 'Earth'. Perhaps it can be found in the Jedi archives back at the Jedi Temple." Plo Koon said.
"That is…" Mace added. "If your world does reside in this galaxy."
"You don't believe me when I told everyone back at the Senate Chamber that he's from another galaxy?" Padmè asked, somewhat not surprised given that she hadn't given any more information about him.
"Please understand, Senator Amidala, that we haven't fully explored the entirety of our galaxy." Ki Adi Mundi said.
Goku looked at the two Jedi with understanding. "Well… it is a big galaxy but I still believe that I come from another galaxy because I never felt this strange power you guys have back at my place."
"The power you have, we have not felt until now." Yoda agreed. "To the temple soon, you will tell us."
Goku was excited to see what their temple looked like. That meant more Jedi Knights and Masters. He was curious about how they would fight in a battle.
"But if it is true that he does come from another galaxy, the chance of us helping you is… impossible," Mace said gravely.
Goku immediately turned to him. His expression turned into concern. "Wait, you guys don't know how to get me back home?"
"Unfortunately, as Master Mundi told Senator Amidala, we have yet to fully explore our own galaxy." Plo Koon said. The tone of his voice was sympathetic. "We do not have the knowledge of other existing galaxies, not even our small neighbor galaxy itself."
"To make matters worse, even if we do find your galaxy, we have no means to travel there safely."
"There was an attempt to explore another galaxy almost a decade ago but it failed and caused many thousand's lives in the process." Kit-Fisto said in a sad tone.
Goku was saddened by this revelation. How was he going to get back to his home now? To his friends? To his son? While he loved doing new adventures and new challenges, that does not mean he wasn't keen on being away from his loved ones for too long.
Padmè looked at him with sympathy. She could only imagine how Goku would be feeling about being stuck here and away from his loved ones despite the fact that she wanted him to stay a bit longer to give him a tour here and get to know him a bit longer.
"Perhaps, I can be of assistance."
Everyone turned to see Chancellor Sheev Palpatine.
Goku set his eyes on the white-haired man.
Palpatine also eyed the Saiyan.
Both stared at each other.
Time slowed down for only the two of them.
No one noticed it.
Not the other Senators.
Not Mas Amedda.
Not the Guards.
Not Padmè.
Not the Jedi Masters.
Not even Yoda.
Only them.
Goku could feel the subtle darkness surrounding the room. Surrounding this old man.
While Palpatine could feel the blinding tremendous power within the Saiyan.
The Unstoppable Force clashed with the Immovable Object.
The Dark Lord of the Sith.
The Strongest Under the Heavens.
From one side, there stood the pure heart.
From the other side, there stood pure evil.
Both could stare at each other for eternity.
And then Goku asked… "You know how to get me back?"
Time moved normally for both of them again.
Palpatine nodded. "Indeed. I can discuss it with expert engineers who have the capability to create a ship for you."
The Chancellor turned to the beautiful senator. "Senator Amidala, my friend, you told me that he crashed with a space pod. Is it still functional?"
Padmè shook her head with uncertainty. "The engineers tried to understand the capability and origins of it but refrained from touching too much because there's a slight chance it would either explode or worse."
He slowly nodded. "I see. It is best for you to ask Queen Jamilia permission to hand over the damaged pod to Coruscant. We will do everything in our power and skills to repair it or modify it."
He turned Goku with a smile. "It's the least I can do for the man who saved you and your friends."
Goku scratched his head with a smile.
A strained smile.
"Aw gee, thanks."
Palpatine returned him with a smile, the tiniest bit of strain crawling on his expression.
"And speaking of," he added and returned his gaze to Padmè. "Do you have a particular idea who wants to assassinate you?"
Padmè pursed her lips. "I believe Count Dooku was behind that attempt."
All of the Jedi Masters immediately looked at her in astonished disapproval.
Mace stepped in. "Milady, Count Dooku was once a former Jedi Master. He was one of the best of us. It's not in his character to assassinate anyone."
"He's a political idealist. Not a murderer." Ki Adi Mundi added.
Padmè could only sigh. She only hoped that their words were true.
Master Yoda tapped his cane, drawing attention to himself. Goku felt the room went calm and based on this reaction, Yoda was probably the most respected person ever.
"In dark times, nothing is what appears to be." The grandmaster remarked. "But the fact remains, in grave danger you are."
Supreme Chancellor Palpatine gave a dramatic sigh. "Master Yoda, may I suggest that Senator Amidala be placed under the protection of your graces?"
Padmè's eyes widened. "What?"
"Chancellor Palpatine, do you think it is wise to use limited resources at this stressful time?" Senator Bail Organa quickly interjected. "Thousands of systems have gone over fully to the Separatists and many more may soon join in. The Jedi are our only hope!-"
"I have Goku!" Padmè immediately said.
Everyone looked at Padmè. She coughed for a bit and explained.
"Goku saved me and my friend, Cordè, and the guards. I saw firsthand one of his abilities such as flying–"
"He flew?" Mace asked, inspecting the young foreign warrior.
She nodded. "He's also fast enough to save everyone aboard that ship in a blur. If anything, Goku can be my temporary bodyguard until there's a way for him to return home to his galaxy."
Goku looked at her. A temporary bodyguard?
"Senator Amidala, we will have to take Goku to our temple." Mace Windu told her. "We can send other Jedi to guard you until you're safe."
Padmé wasn't going to give up that easily. "I'll come with Goku anyways to your Temple."
"I'm sorry but you are not allowed–" Ki-Adi-Mundi was stopped when Goku spoke.
"Is it okay if Padmé hangs around with me? She did promise to tell me more things about this galaxy and I also promised her that I would tell mine."
The other four Jedi Masters were still not sure about her coming along.
"Hmmm understand, I do." Master Yoda said. "Come along, Senator Amidala will. Allowed this, the Chancellor would?"
Padmé looked at Palpatine with a pleading expression and he reluctantly gave in. "Very well, Senator, if that is what you desire."
Satisfied with the outcome, she happily bowed down in respect. "Thank you, Chancellor. I assure you that Goku will keep me safe."
Goku gave a thumbs up to her. "Yup! I'll keep her safe from any of those 'Bounty Hunters."
"I'll hold you to that, Goku." Padmé smiled.
"Go now, we shall." Yoda gestured at the door. "Follow along, Mr. Son and Senator Amidala."
Both nodded as Padmè turned to Bail. "Senator Organa, I'll contact you and the others later, we'll make sure that this bill won't be voted on."
"Of course, Senator Amidala. Safe travels to the temple." Bail glanced at Goku. "And I hope you behave yourself unlike back in the restaurant."
"Hehe, I will. I'll be on my best behavior." Goku assured him with a smile.
Bail doubted it but didn't show and only nodded. "Very good then. Take care."
Goku and Padmè followed the five Jedi Councils out of the office with the handmaidens and Captain Typho next to them. Mas Amedda looked around the office as he asked.
"Where is Senator Mon Mothma?"
Bail closed his eyes with a long sigh. "Fainted."
"Fainted?"
"She couldn't handle seeing Goku's… monstrous appetite... Senator Binks and the others are with her for a while."
Bail turned to Palpatine as he bowed. "Chancellor, we shall take our leave."
The Supreme Chancellor returned with a slight bow. "We shall see each other again tomorrow."
The two Senators left without another word. It was quiet for a moment until Palpatine spoke.
"Vice-Chair, guards, I wish to spend some time alone."
"Chancellor?" Mas Amedda looked at him in concern.
"I must think." Palpatine told him.
Reluctantly, he and the senate guards bowed down in obedience as they too left.
The door slid shut.
Ten seconds later, he stood.
Ten minutes later, he stood.
An hour later, he stood.
And then he dropped onto his knees.
Drops of sweat dripped from him.
His hands were shaking.
His body was shaking.
Fear.
Fear engulfed him.
Fear that he was almost caught.
His hands slowly curled into fists.
And then his fear turned to anger.
Veins appeared on his wrinkled face.
His expression turned dark as he gritted his teeth.
Anger that he was almost caught.
Anger that his plan was almost ruined.
And then his anger turned to hate.
His eyes turned crimson blood and inside was a blazing fire, his pupil was like a black hole as if it could suck everything on this planet.
Hate that this abomination existed.
Hate that this abomination had more power than him.
Hate that this foreigner, Son Goku, came.
Hate that he was pure of heart.
Hate that he was incorruptible.
And from hate, he would make sure that this abomination suffers!
Suffer for his existence.
Suffer for his intervention.
Suffer for his power.
Suffer for everything!
The Dark Lord vowed for it.
It didn't matter how long it would take.
It didn't matter how much it would take.
It didn't matter where would it take.
It didn't matter if it would take months, years, or decades.
All that mattered, was for Son Goku to be removed from the game.
Permanently.
Tadaaaaa what do you guys think?
Let me tell you this, I loooooooooooooooveee writing Palpatine/Sidious, I've always enjoyed watching him in the movies, and shows and reading many LEgends and Canon novels that included him and his shenanigans of the dark side and manipulation.
So Goku and Palpatine finally met, at long last after like two years of no update.
I've made some bit of changes here and there like Luminara and Barriss Offee were supposed to be in the Chancellor's office but I'll have them appear in the next chapter.
And at the same time I've taken some elements from Attack of the Clones novel, you may noticed on some parts!
Now to those who will ask... where is Anakin and Obi Wan? welp they're on their way back and pretty soon but instead of guarding Padme, they'll just go back at the temple and you know what happened next, I ain't spoiling muuuch~
And you know... I'm really enjoying writing the interactions between Padmé and Goku, it's fun to have their newfound friendship blossom!
And woooh this is a loooong chapter, I never expected it this long.
I really hope that you guys like this chapter! Please review and let me your thoughts!
(and tell me more about LEgeeendss, despite me reading lots of em, I wish to know your knowledge.)