Chapter 6: Protect an Angel
Many months later, the situation within the Senate of the Galactic Republic had steadily grown, with thousands of star systems having left to join the Confederacy of Independent Systems (Separatist Movement) under Count Dooku. Several of the Republic senators felt like they would be pushed into war with the Separatists and were advocating for the Military Creation Act to be passed. However, there were those who were quite vocal against it, like the former Queen of Naboo. Senator Padmé Amidala. Since the Bill was first brought before the Senate, she had been vocal against such a thing, stipulating that it would result in the deaths of thousands, if not millions, of innocent lives. Because of her stance against the Act, she earned a fair number of enemies within the Senate who did not wish to stand with her. But despite being unable to sway those who have chosen to side with the Chancellor, many Senators were behind her. Despite what the Chancellor said about not wanting a war, the young Naboo Senator, Queen Jamillia, and her advisors had their misgivings.
The day before leaving for Coruscant, she received an unknown transmission threatening that she would be killed should she leave to vote against the Military Creation Act in the Galactic Senate. This was precisely why she was heading to Coruscant with a security detail. Entering the atmosphere were four N-1 Starfighters and a Naboo cruiser—one in the front, one in the back, and the others on both sides. Upon receiving clearance to land at one of the large platforms, the lead starfighter's pilot Corporal Dolphe kept his fighter up and about as the other two fighters put down side by side on one end of the platform, the Royal Cruiser hovering nearby for just a moment, then gently landing.
Dolphe was dedicated to his job and was a pragmatic man. He did another circuit, then, seeing no traffic at all in the vicinity, settled his fighter across the way from his companion craft. He didn't put it down all the way just yet, though, but remained ready to swivel about and strike hard at any attackers if need be.
The two other star pilots who were a part of the fighter escorts climbed out of their respective ships. Amidala's Chief of Security, Captain Typho, pulled off his flight helmet and shook his head, running a hand over his short, woolly black hair and adjusting the black leather patch he wore over his left eye. Walking up to his side was his fellow pilot. "We made it," Typho said, turning his head to look at the pilot beside him. "I guess I was wrong. There was no danger at all."
"There's always danger, Captain," the other responded in a distinctly female voice. "Sometimes we're just lucky enough to avoid it."
Typho was about to respond but paused when the cruiser's ramp started to lower onto the platform. The plan had been to get the contingent off the exposed platform and into a transport vehicle as quickly as possible. Two Naboo guards appeared, alert and ready, their blaster rifles presented before them. Beaming with pride, he gave them a curt nod as the guards understood the importance of their mission and were not taking any chances when it came to safeguarding the Senator.
Just as Senator Amidala started coming down the ramp flanked by a few guards, the ship exploded and burst into flames, scattering burning pieces of the ship in all directions. The remaining hulk of the Royal Cruiser burned brightly, and seven figures lay on the ground before it, one wearing the decorated garment's that Typho knew so very well. Once the flames cleared, the two ran over to see if any of them had survived the explosion.
The female pilot was the first to arrive at the fallen Senator and kneel beside her. Then removing her helmet and shook her chocolate locks free. This was the real Senator of Naboo. A devastated Padmé had not been a fan of using her handmaiden Cordé as a decoy. Still, her handmaiden had insisted that it was of the utmost importance that she make it to Coruscant to vote against the Military Creation Act.
"Senator!" Typho yelled. A few tears left Padmé's eyes as she watched her friend slowly take her last couple of breaths. "Come, the danger has not passed!"
Ignoring the Captain's plea, she inched closer to the critically injured woman, "Cordé," she said quietly, her voice breaking. Cordé was one of her beloved bodyguards and a dear friend; she was brave, compassionate, hardworking, and a loyal friend who served her and Naboo for many years. Padmé gathered Cordé up in her arms, hugging her gently.
Cordé opened her eyes, rich brown orbs so similar to Padmé's own. "I'm sorry, Milady," she gasped, struggling for breath with every word. "I'm. . . not sure I. . ." She paused and lay there, staring at Padmé. "I've failed you, Senator."
"No!" Padmé deniably shook her head, refusing to accept her bodyguard's words. The next minute Cordé closed her eyes for the last time, never to open them again. She was gone.
"Milady, you are still in danger!" Typho declared, trying to sound sympathetic but with a clear sense of urgency in his voice.
Padmé got to her feet after gently placing Cordé's body on the ground and took a deep and steadying breath. Looking upon her dead friend, remembering all at once Cordé the many times they had spent together, she gently lowered to the ground. "I shouldn't have come back," she said as she stood up beside the wary Typho, tears streaking her cheeks.
Captain Typho came up out of his ready stance long enough to lock stares with his Senator. "This vote is very important," he reminded her, his tone uncompromising, the voice of a man sworn to duty above all else. He was a lot like his uncle. "You did your duty, Senator, and Cordé did hers. Now come!"
When he took a few steps away, he noticed she was still looking at her friend, "Senator Amidala, please."
As much as she wanted to stay by her dead friend's side, she ultimately gave in to Captain Typho's plea knowing he was right. Together with Artoo, they left the platform and headed to the Senate building.
(0^0)
At the Senate Chamber, the Senators were in a real frenzy as shouts of indignance regarding what happened on the landing platform had reached their attention. Jedi Master Adi Gallia, who had been selected as the Representative for the Jedi Order, sat in her repulsorpod contemplating what she heard about what happened to Senator Amidala and the members of her team. The young Senator had been one of the Order's most vocal and strongest allies both when she became Queen of Naboo and later when she became the Senator for her homeworld. She was a well-respected person who believed in democracy, was loved by her people, and had a powerful voice in the Senate. She openly spoke against Chancellor Palpatine's stance when it came to the creation of an army for the Republic.
If her loss was indeed caused by the Separatists, then Master Gallia was sure that war would soon take place, for the Senator's death would be a real blow to the Galactic Republic and the Jedi Order. Adi knew that Masters Yoda, Windu, Mundi, Koon, Fisto, Luminara, and Padawan Bariss Offee were waiting by the entrance watching as the multiple Senators spoke with one another. Pushing aside the waves of fear, anger, and distress she was sensing from the others, she silently observed the Speaker.
"Order! We shall have order!" Mas Amedda cried; he was the current Vice Chair of the Galactic Senate and attempting to quiet down the collection of shouts from the Senators. "Senators, please!" Mas Amedda called loudly. "Indeed, we have much to discuss. Many important issues. But the motion before us, to commission an army to protect the Republic, takes precedence. That is what we will vote on now, and that alone! Other business must defer." Palpatine then stood up and went to address the Senate with a calm yet sad expression.
He stood straight and inhaled deeply in an attempt to find the right words while at the same time internally rejoicing that his primary antagonist against the Military Creation Act would no longer be able to stand in his way. "My esteemed colleagues. I have just received some tragic and disturbing news. Senator Amidala of the Naboo system. . .has been assassinated!"
A shock wave of silence rolled about the crowd; eyes went wide; mouths, for those who had mouths, hung open in disbelief. Adi Gallia had difficulty believing his words were sincere but remained quiet and listened to him continue.
"This grievous blow is especially personal to me," Palpatine explained. "Before I became Chancellor, I was a Senator, serving Amidala when she was Queen of Naboo. She was a great leader who fought for justice. So beloved was she among her people that she could have been elected Queen for life!" He gave a fake but realistic chuckle of amusement and sadness as he remembered the woman who served as the leader of his home planet. "But Senator Amidala believed in term limits, and she fervently believed in democracy. Her death is a great loss to us all. We will all mourn her as a relentless champion of freedom." The Supreme Chancellor tilted his head, his eyes lowering, and he sighed again. "And as a dear friend." There was a long silence as no one dared to speak for a minute as a few Senators who were allied with the woman bowed their heads in sadness.
But unfortunately, the moment was ruined by the Senator from Malastare. "How many more Senators will die before this civil strife ends?" the Malastarian cried. "We must confront these rebels now and need an army to do it!"
"Must I remind the Senator from Malastare that negotiations are continuing with the separatists?" Supreme Chancellor Palpatine interjected. "Peace is our objective here. Not war." Arguments and shouting matches could be heard about the need for the creation of an army, as the Republic was vulnerable if the Jedi were unable to stop the attack.
Finally, having had enough, a disgusted Padmé shook her head at her colleagues for their shortsightedness. "My noble colleagues," Amidala said loudly, and the sound of her most familiar voice quieted many of the
Senators, who turned to regard her. "I concur with the Supreme Chancellor. At all costs, we do not want war!" There was a thunderous outburst of cheering and applause from the Senators, who were happy to see that Amidala was still alive.
"It is with great surprise and joy that the chair recognizes the Senator from Naboo, Padm Amidala," Palpatine declared. Though behind his happy facade, he was fuming on the inside.
"Less than an hour ago, an assassination attempt was made upon my life. One of my bodyguards and six others were ruthlessly and senselessly murdered. I was the target, but, more important, I believe this security measure before you was the target. I have led the opposition to building an army, but there is someone who will stop at nothing to assure its passage." The cheers she received quickly turned to boos as she basically accused members of the Senate of trying to assassinate her. However, that was not her intention, as she had a hunch she knew who was behind the assassination attempt. She suspected the Viceroy Nute Gunray of the Trade Federation was behind the attack as it seemed to be the most logical that he would want her silenced for humiliating him after the Trade Federation staged an invasion over Naboo ten years ago. The Neimoidian undoubtedly held a grudge against her and would stop at nothing to ensure she was dead. She remembered what Panaka said about the Trade Federation joining Count Dooku. Of course, this was only speculation on her part, but she had a gut feeling that Gunray was trying to even the score.
She took a deep breath, steeling herself against the unrest growing in the Senate. "Wake up, Senators—you must wake up! If we offer the Separatists violence, they can only show us violence in return! Many will lose their lives, and all will lose their freedom! This decision could very well destroy the very foundation of our great Republic! I pray you do not let fear push you into a disastrous decision. Which is nothing less than a declaration of war! Does anyone want that? I cannot believe they do!" Padmé's voice was filled with passion as she hoped with all her heart that the others would agree with her.
"By precedence of order, my motion to defer the vote must be dealt with first. That is the rule of law!" Orn Free Taa, the overweight Twi'lek Senator of Ryloth, stated. Padmé furiously glared at him as he was one of Palpatine's loyal supporters, and when she turned to the Chancellor for some help, she got nothing from the man though he appeared sympathetic to her plight, only shrugged. But that did not amount to much. Instead, he stood up at the podium.
"Due to the lateness of the hour and the seriousness of this motion, we will take up these matters tomorrow. Until then, the Senate stands adjourned." Palpatine declared, putting any further arguments to rest.
In the Chancellor's office, Palpatine was sitting behind his desk and having a discussion with the Jedi regarding the Senate's decision on whether they should approve the creation of an army for the Republic or not.
"I don't know how much longer I can hold off the vote, my friends," Palpatine explained. "More and more star systems are joining the separatists."
Master Mace Windu understood the dilemma, as the situation within the Republic's Galactic Senate was growing unstable. "If they do break away—"
"I will not let this Republic that has stood for a thousand years be split in two!" Palpatine declared, slamming a fist determinedly on his desk. "My negotiations will not fail!"
Windu remained calm, keeping his voice even and controlled. "But if they do, you must realize there aren't enough Jedi to protect the Republic. We are keepers of the peace, not soldiers."
Palpatine shifted his gaze to the left. "Master Yoda," he began, making sure he had the Jedi Master's attention. "Do you really think it will come to war?"
Yoda closed his eyes. "Hmm, the dark side clouds everything." Opening his eyes, "impossible to see the future is."
Before Palpatine could respond, a holoimage of one of his aides appeared on his desk. "The loyalist committee has arrived," the Rodian said in Huttese.
"Send them in," said Palpatine, and the holoimage disappeared.
Rising from his chair, "we will discuss this matter later." He then went to stare out the window to look over the horizon while Master Yoda went to greet the new guests.
"Senator Amidala, your tragedy on the landing platform—terrible." Yoda stopped to stand before her. "Seeing you alive brings warm feeling to my heart," he said with a gentle smile.
"Thank you, Master Yoda," she cordially responded and returned the smile. Yet it quickly vanished, and her voice became slightly more serious. "Do you have any idea who was behind this attack?"
That question caused everyone in the room to look at her and the diminutive Jedi Master.
Mace Windu cleared his throat and stepped forward. "Senator, our intelligence points to disgruntled spice miners on the moons of Naboo."
"I think that Count Dooku is behind this," Padmé looked at the Korun Master when he stood at her right side. She also wanted to say that Nute Gunray might be in on it but held her tongue, as there was no proof, only a thought she had
"That is certainly a possibility, though one we cannot dismiss out of hand. There can be a number of people after you, either within the Republic or the Separatists," Windu replied.
Master Yoda tapped his cane, drawing attention to himself, and that alone exerted a calming influence over the increasingly tense mood. "In dark times, nothing is what it appears to be," the diminutive figure remarked. "But for certain, Senator, in grave danger you are."
Supreme Chancellor Palpatine gave a dramatic sigh and walked over to the window, staring out at the Coruscant dawn. "Master Jedi," he said, "may I suggest. . .that the Senator be placed. . . under the protection of your graces?"
"Do you think that a wise use of our limited resources at this stressful time?" Senator Bail Organa was quick to interject. Padmé had been a close friend to him for years and was not one of the corrupt politicians in the Senate. They had been working on trying to stop the Military Creation Act for a year.
Padmé then went to speak, "Chancellor, if I may comment, I do not believe—"
"The situation is that serious?" Palpatine cut her off with a firm voice. "No, but I do, Senator." He then walked forward.
Padmé looked annoyed at how he was casually dismissing her wishes for additional security. This had become a regular occurrence as of late. He would often dismiss her words. The man she once trusted and served as her advisor when she was Queen had changed, and that made her uneasy.
"I realize all too well that additional security. . .might be disruptive. But during these stressful times, your safety is paramount," he said, sounding like a concerned grandfather. "Perhaps someone you are familiar with, an old friend." Smiling cleverly, Palpatine looked to Mace Windu and Yoda. "Master Kenobi?" he finished with a nod, and his smile only widened when Mace Windu nodded back.
"That's possible," the Mace confirmed. "He and Padawan Skywalker have just returned from a border dispute on Ansion."
A flicker of warmth lit up in Padmé's when Master Windu said Anakin had returned to Coruscant. It had been ten years since she last saw him, and she wondered how much he changed and if he still remembered her. The last time she saw him was at the palace after the Trade Federation's blockade had been destroyed. That time she returned to Naboo to inform Queen Jamila and the governors of what was happening in the Senate. She secretly hoped for the chance to see him again. Only to learn he had left a few hours before her arrival. She spent two weeks on her home planet, meeting with the Queen and the others. But by some miracle, she accidentally ran into his mother, Shmi Skywalker, while she was getting groceries one day. Padmé remembered Shmi from her short while on Tatooine and was delighted to see her again. She was glad to see she was happily married, with a new family, and no longer a slave. What really surprised her was that the Jedi Council had allowed her to be in contact with Anakin.
In the past, it had been well-known that the Jedi were not supposed to have contact with their parents, but that had recently changed. Padmé then squashed down her thoughts and resumed the meeting with the Chancellor. Even though she didn't like the idea of having extra security, she relented and accepted Palpatine's words. Plus, the prospect of being able to see Anakin again didn't hurt as it brought a smile to her face, though she quickly covered it up when she cleared her throat.
"Very well, please send them when you get the chance," she said.
Mace raised an eyebrow and shot her a curious look. When Anakin's name popped into the conversation, he sensed a spark of warmth deep within the Senator. Like she had been eager to see him again. He would need to keep a careful eye on the Senator and make sure she kept her relationship with Anakin strictly professional.
(0^0)
Almost an hour after returning from a mission to Ansion, Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi had a communication request from the Jedi Council requesting his and Padawan Skywalker's presence in the Council Chambers to be given a new assignment. The mission on Ansion was a tiring one, but the Jedi duo were able to convince the people to remain with the Republic. Now back on Coruscant standing before the Council, a recently turned nineteen-year-old Anakin hoped to get some time to relax and probably get in contact with his mom on Naboo to let her know he was all right. He knew she worried, but it was part of being a Jedi. To stop those from spreading chaos and conflict and ensure the galaxy remained at peace. Whilst his thoughts drifted toward his mother as he was technically supposed to contact her an hour ago, he knew that when the Council requested his presence, it was of the utmost importance that he show. Something that Mace and Obi-Wan had drilled into him from day one.
Standing at attention next to Obi-Wan, he listened as Master Windu briefed them on their next assignment. "The Senator from Naboo has recently arrived to participate in a vote on whether the Senate should authorize the creation of an army for the Republic. However, this has been met with opposition as no less than a couple hours ago, an assassination attempt was made on her life."
"Someone was trying to kill, Padmé? Is she all right?" Anakin mentally asked himself. He had to use the Force to squash down his emotions as he could sense she was on Coruscant, alive and unharmed.
Easy Anakin. . . Mace said through their bond. "The Senator was thankfully not one of the casualties; however, her safety is crucial as she is leading the opposition against the Military Creation Act. Supreme Chancellor Palpatine has requested that she be placed under our protection while she is on Coruscant for the Senate vote."
Obi-Wan looked at Anakin out of the corner of his left eye, knowing he might be thinking he asked. "If need be, if there's another attempt on Senator Amidala's life, do we conduct an investigation?"
Mace shared a look with Yoda like they were having a silent discussion before responding in an even voice. "Your primary mandate is to protect the Senator. However, if another attempt is made, you are allowed to pursue and report any information you find," Mace said. "Now, seeing as the two of you have just returned, you will have an hour to collect and refresh yourselves before we head to the Senator's apartment."
We Master? Anakin asked
You heard me. The Chancellor may have requested she be placed under Jedi protection and suggested that Obi-Wan be the one to safeguard her, but he never said anyone else within the Order couldn't be in attendance when you go meet with her. I also know you're eager to get in contact with your mother. Take advantage of the time you have to speak with her.
"Yes, Master," Obi-wan and Anakin bowed, then left. Soon as they were out of the chamber, Obi-Wan gave his Padawan a nod telling him to go make his call.
Obi-Wan chuckled when he saw Anakin immediately take off like his butt was on fire. Having Anakin in contact with Shmi was a good move as he continued to grow into a more mature Jedi since she was relocated onto a planet within the Republic along with the Lars family and Ms. Whitesun. Come to think of it, since he had an hour until he had to report to the Senator's apartment, he figured he get some food.
Sprinting through the Temple, Anakin used the Force to enhance his speed and only stopped when he arrived at his quarters. Taking a minute to catch his breath, he inhaled some air, pressed the button, and when the door slid open, he walked in. He then reached into his pocket to pull out his holoprojector; placing it on the ground, he turned it on, and a life-sized holoprojector of his mom appeared.
"I was expecting your transmission when you returned earlier," Shmi smiled at her son.
"Sorry, mom. I wanted to contact you sooner, but Obi-Wan and I were immediately called to the Council Chamber to receive our next mission," he explained.
She let out a small sigh, "another mission, huh? One would think they'd give you a break upon your return from Ansion."
"If only," Anakin casually shrugged. "Believe me, I was actually looking forward to getting a little relaxation myself. The situation on Ansion was difficult, but in the end, they agreed to stay with the Republic and not join the Separatists," relief fell from his voice. "I'm sorry that we won't have much time to speak this time, but Mace will be escorting me and Obi-Wan to Senator Amidala's apartment for additional security.
"Padmé's is the one you need to protect?" Her voice was filled with concern as she had become fond of the Senator. Anakin was surprised to hear the concern in his mom's voice. From what he remembered, she had only met Padmé when she was traveling to Coruscant and had to make an emergency landing to fix her ship's hyperdrive. Yet his mom's voice indicated that she was very familiar with her.
"Everything okay, mom? You sound as if you know, Padmé personally?" The sound of curiosity trailed down his voice.
"That's because I do," Shmi confirmed, much to Anakin's surprise. "I'll keep this short since you don't have much time. Shortly after you left to return to Coruscant, we met while I was shopping at the food market. It surprised me, but even after all these years, she hasn't changed and is still the same person I met all those years ago on Tatooine. From that day, we became quite familiar with one another, and she even had dinner at our house."
"Wow," a surprised Anakin found it hard to believe that his mom and Padmé were actually friends. But he figured that anything was possible. Knowing that time was of the essence, he pushed his thoughts away, "Mom, I have to go. But I promise to get in contact with you when I can. Send the others my best."
"I will, and be careful, Ani. I love you."
"I love you too, Mom." He knelt down and ended the transmission.
An hour later, the three Jedi arrived at Coruscant's most exclusive residential tower, 500 Republica. Only wealthy people can afford to live in places as prestigious as this, meaning you either had to be a Senator, a successful businessman, or work in a place that pays you top credits, etc. After parking the speeder, they hopped out and entered the Senate's apartment complex. Senator Amidala lived in the penthouse suite at the top of the building. Entering the turbolift, Mace pressed the button for Amidala's penthouse, and the three were being taken up.
As they rode the lift up to the penthouse, Obi-Wan sensed Anakin's uneasiness and a small amount of anxiety surrounding him. He could tell his mind was elsewhere.
"You seem a little on edge, Anakin," Obi-Wan noted as the lift continued its climb.
"Not at all," came the unconvincing reply.
"I haven't seen you this nervous since we fell into that nest of gundarks."
"You fell into that nightmare, Master, and I rescued you. Remember?"
Obi-Wan's little distraction seemed to have the desired effect, and the pair shared a much-needed laugh. Coming out of it, though, Anakin remained obviously uncertain about something.
Mace sensed his Padawan's uncertainty and asked. "Does it concern the Senator?" Feeling Anakin's emotions through their Force bond. Anakin didn't need to answer, as the two other Jedi could sense his thoughts. "A lot can happen in ten years, Anakin. She's not a Queen anymore, and I'm sure she remembers you. She seemed relatively happy when it was mentioned you would be assisting Obi-Wan in protecting her."
"That is not what entirely concerns me, Master," Anakin responded, then explained. "I sense something else is at work here. Like this is only the beginning of something much larger. Something evil."
"We'll discuss it later. For now, keep your focus on the here and now," Mace instructed.
"Yes, Master."
The lift stopped at the penthouse, and the door slid open. Mace and Obi-Wan were the first to step off the lift, followed by Anakin, and together they stepped into the apartment. Not a second later, they came face to face with a familiar well-dressed Gungan, wearing fine red and black robes, who stepped into the corridor opposite them. Jar Jar Binks, the Gungan diplomat, began hopping around like a child, losing all sense of reserve and propriety.
"Obi! Obi! Obi!" Jar Jar happily exclaimed, tongue and ears flapping. "Mesa so happy to see'en yousa!
Obi-Wan smiled politely, though his glance at Anakin did show that he was a bit embarrassed, and he patted his hands gently in the air, trying to calm the excitable fellow. "It's good to see you, too, Jar Jar."
The overexcited Gungan then greeted Anakin, who to felt a little embarrassed at how the Representative of Naboo acted and mentioned how much he had grown. "Good to see you as well, Jar Jar," giving him a friendly smile.
Jar Jar stopped bouncing and looked at Mace and Obi-Wan intently, his duck-billed face taking on a more serious expression. "Shesa expecting yousa. Ani! Mesa no believen!" His head bobbed a bit more, then he grabbed Anakin by the hand and pulled him along.
The young Gungan led them through the well-decorated apartment and into a rather spacious living room where the Senator, her loyal handmaiden Dormé, and Captain Typho were waiting for them.
"Mesa here. Lookie! Lookie!" Mace shot an annoyed glance toward Jar Jar when he screeched. Meanwhile, Obi-Wan took a second to compose himself as the announcement was more than what he would have preferred, but one that he knew he had to expect from the emotionally volatile Gungan. "Desa Jedi arriven."
Obi-Wan respectfully bowed at the Senator, which was quickly copied by Anakin. "It's a pleasure to see you again, Milady," Obi-Wan said, offering a warm hand to Padmé.
Accepting the gesture, she took his hand into her own and shook it. Even though it had been years since she'd seen the older Jedi, she remembered him from Naboo. "It has been far too long, Master Kenobi. I'm so glad our paths have crossed again. But I must warn you that I think your presence here is unnecessary."
"With all due respect Senator where your safety is concerned, this is entirely necessary," commented Mace.
She sent him a brief glare, understanding that they were only doing what was requested of them. She then shifted her gaze to Obi-Wan's right at the younger Jedi standing beside him. He stood a head taller than Master Kenobi, had a well-built physique concealed by his black tunic, and was very handsome. She almost didn't recognize him, but his eyes reminded her of someone special. After taking a step closer toward him, her eyes instantly widened as she knew these eyes could only belong to one person. "Ani?" she asked, her expression purely incredulous. When his cobalt eyes shined, she knew no further words needed to be said.
"Ani," wrapping her arms around him this time, bringing the young Padawan into a warm hug. Momentarily stunned and unaware of how to respond, Anakin could only do the first thing that popped into his head and returned the hug. "My goodness, how you've grown!" She said after pulling away slightly to take in his appearance, to see that he now towered over her. Her knees felt weak when he shot her a grin.
"So have you," he answered, albeit slightly awkwardly, as if he was trying to find the right words. "You've grown more beautiful, I mean," he said, trying to calm down his nerves. Her smile showed she was happy he was here. "Force, she was even more beautiful than from when I first met her at Watto's Junk Shop. How could an angel like her radiate such beauty? Wait, no. Keep it together, Anakin," mentally scolding himself. He then cleared his throat. "I'm surprised you recognize me."
"I can't forget that little boy who blew up the Trade Federation's droid command ship," she lightly teased. He blushed a bit at the memory. "Seems life as a Jedi did you some good."
"Living at the Temple and training under Master Windu will do that to you," the slight awkwardness in his voice was still present but vanished a little. "Oh, kriffing hell, she is too beautiful. Force, please be give me the strength to keep it together." You can step in anytime now, he said.
I got it, Mace returned, then cleared his throat rather loudly, and shot a look at the Senator, who jumped back then composed herself. Happy? He asked through their bond. "Perhaps we should get to the reason why we are here, as this is not a social visit."
"Agreed, Master Jedi," said Padmé in an even voice.
"Our presence will be invisible, Milady," Obi-Wan assured Padmé as she led them to the sofas.
"I'm Captain Typho of her Majesty's security service. Queen Jamillia has been informed of your assignment," the Captain informed the Jedi, then added, "I'm very grateful that you're here, Master Kenobi. The situation is more dangerous than the Senator will admit."
Padmé shot her Captain an annoyed look, feeling like he was exaggerating the situation a little, but knew he was only doing his job. "I don't need any more security," Padmé said, addressing Typho initially but turning to regard Obi-Wan as she continued. "I need answers. I want to know who is trying to kill me. I believe there is more going on than trying to remove me from the picture." She stopped as a frown crossed Obi-Wan Kenobi's and Mace Windu's faces. The former then replied.
"I'm afraid you mistake our intentions, Senator. We are here to protect you, Senator, not to start an investigation," he said calmly and deliberately, which made Padmé frown a bit.
Anakin saw this and added his two credits to the conversation. "Our mandate is to protect you, Senator. However, there might be a chance to accomplish both tasks," his voice was suggestive. "If a lead does turn up, then we will pursue it, and hopefully, that will lead us to the answers we seek," he said, wanting to set her mind at ease. That wasn't what he wanted to say, but the years he spent under Mace and Obi-Wan taught him how to act in situations like this, be mindful of his thoughts, and learn how to see things differently. Most people would consider the assignment they were currently on as overkill and should be handled by the local police, but since this involved a Senator of the Republic and was requested by the Supreme Chancellor, the Council couldn't dismiss it. The Council may not always be right when it comes to dealing with situations, something Master Windu acknowledged, but Anakin learned that if he communicated with his Master, then he would reciprocate and elaborate on the details of a mission and be open to adapting the original plans. "Either way, we will guarantee your safety no matter what."
Padmé smiled gratefully, "thank you, and I really hope so, Ani." He seemed more mature than ever. "Perhaps with merely your presence about me, the mysteries surrounding this threat will be revealed," offered Padmé, ever the diplomat.
"We can only hope," with a grin, Anakin leaned back.
"Maybe after all this is over, we can get together and catch up," she suggested.
He had to stop the light blush that threatened to appear on his cheeks and quiet down the roaring rancor for him to say yes. "Probably. But for now, I think it would be best to check on security."
"Priorities first," said Mace in a no-nonsense tone, giving the Senator a pointed look. "Wouldn't you agree, Senator?"
"Yes, indeed," either Padmé didn't notice the look on the older Jedi's face or just ignored it and stood up. "Now, if you will excuse me, I will retire." She and Dormé went to exit the room as Captain Typho briefed the Jedi about the security measures that were in place. Padmé tried to calm down her beating heart. Seeing Anakin again was great, and she couldn't believe he had grown from that nine-year-old boy into such a handsome man. To her, he looked like a male model. Before turning the corner, she stole a glance at the area they were sitting in to see that he had quickly averted his eyes away from her. A warmth that hadn't been in her in a long time filled her entire being as her heart fluttered.
(0^0)
Later that day, when the sun finally went down and the night sky took over, the bounty hunter who blew up Senator Amidala's ship and killed seven individuals stepped out of her speeder and hopped onto a ledge to meet with her boss, who was supposed to be here by now. A second later, a man in grey armor emerged from the shadows. Zam Wesell was a Clawdite bounty hunter hired by Jango Fett to assassinate the Naboo Senator. Clawdites were not the most trusting species in the galaxy, as they changed their appearances at will and were highly adept at getting into classified areas with little to no problems. Moreover, they were well-known for their mistrust, and anyone who wished to do business with them had better be cautious.
"You know that we failed?" Jango asked, with a slight amount of irritation in his voice. His grey helmet concealed the frowning expression on his face.
"You told me to kill those in the Naboo starship," Zam said. "I hit the ship, but they used a decoy. Those who were aboard are all dead."
Jango narrowed his eyes at her but didn't bother to call her words a dodge. "We'll have to try something more subtle this time, Zam. My client is getting impatient. Take these," he handed her a hollow, transparent tube containing two Kouhuns. Be careful. They're very poisonous. Zam, there can be no mistakes this time," he said in a cold voice that promised that there would be no additional chances should she fail to complete the task.
Zam gave him a nod and then departed with the tube of dangerous creatures. Jango walked back, retreating into the shadows before using his jetpack to fly away.
In Padmé's suite, Anakin stood in the living room waiting for Obi-Wan to finish checking on security, while Mace had returned to the Temple hours ago. The young Padawan relished in the silence around him and closed his eyes so he could quietly meditate into the realm of the Force. His eyes may have been closed, but he could see the region about him clearly enough and could sense any disturbance in the Force. However, it was short-lived as Obi-Wan entered the room after checking things downstairs.
Obi-Wan looked about curiously, his gaze settling on Anakin. "Captain Typho has more than enough men downstairs," he informed. "No assassin will try that way. Any activity up here?"
"Quiet as a tomb," Anakin replied. "I don't like just waiting here for something to happen."
"Pad. . . I mean, Senator Amidala covered the cam," Anakin corrected himself and explained. "I don't think she liked me watching her."
"What is she thinking?" A small growl of exasperation escaped Obi-Wan at how stubborn the Senator was being when regards to the amount of freedom she had. "Force, she is just as stubborn as you are, if not more. Her safety is paramount as anything could happen."
"She programmed Artoo to warn us if there's an intruder," Anakin explained, trying to ease Obi-Wan's concern.
"It's not an intruder I'm worried about," Obi-Wan countered. "Or not merely an intruder. There are many ways to kill a Senator."
Anakin explained Padmé's plan to his Master, though it was not met the response he was looking for as Obi-Wan accused him of using her as bait to catch the assassin. He defended that it was her idea and that he could see everything happening in her room. "Trust me."
The two then began talking more about the Senator's decision in trying to get answers as to who would want her dead. Elsewhere, lying down in her bed, fast asleep, was Padmé, who had a soft smile about the pleasant dream she was having about the Military Creation Act being denied and the Republic not being pushed into a war with the Separatists.
The scene then changed with her standing on the veranda of her lake house on Naboo, waiting for the sun to rise. Behind her was Anakin, who wrapped his strong arms around her lithe body and held her close, and the two watched as the sun rose on a beautiful morning.
Back in the adjourning room, Obi-Wan noticed how distant and exhausted Anakin looked as he stood out on the balcony looking at the night sky. "You look tired," Obi-Wan commented.
The Padawan, still standing, shifted his eyes and came out of his meditative trance. He took a moment to register the words and then gave a little shrug, not disagreeing. "I haven't slept well since we left for Ansion."
That was hardly news to Obi-Wan. "What's troubling you?" he asked.
"I get the feeling that the assassination attempt on the Senator is only the beginning to something much larger," Anakin answered with a little frustration in his voice. "The day before and when we were on Ansion, I would receive dreams or premonitions about the Republic and the Jedi Order being forced to take part in a massive conflict."
"Not every dream is a premonition or vision. Some dreams are just. . .dreams. Even Jedi have them," Obi-Wan said, stroking his beard thoughtfully. "Dreams pass in time."
"I know," Anakin sighed, "however, what if this is not a dream but a vision of things to come? Master Yoda always says the future is in motion, and many outcomes lay ahead," he calmly said as a smile appeared on his face. "Also, for some reason, I feel like I would much rather dream about Padmé. Just being around her again is. . .intoxicating."
He then continued before Obi-Wan, who frowned at him, could speak. "Yes, I know Jedi are not allowed to have attachments with anyone except for their birth family's now, but being here and seeing her again is difficult. My heart tells me that I should be with her more, but I know it could never be, as she is a Senator, and I'm a Jedi. We would be in constant danger and have to live a lie if we were to be together."
The frown on Obi-Wan's face melted as he began to chuckle, making Anakin look at him with a confused expression. "It amazes me how you've grown up from that little boy that first arrived at the Temple," walking over, he placed a comfortable hand on Anakin's shoulder. "Believe me when I say that I understand what it is like to care for someone to a degree in which would be considered romantic."
Anakin looked at him with a shocked expression.
"When I was a Padawan. I'll tell you more about it some other time," Obi-Wan said with a brief smile on his face. However, it quickly became neutral, "But Padawan, you need to be careful as Senator Amidala is a politician. They're not to be trusted."
"You really do not like politicians do you," it was more of a statement than a question. He knew all too well that Obi-Wan had a certain level of dislike for politicians. "Besides, I get the feeling that she is not like the others in the Senate."
Obi-Wan eyed him carefully. "It's been my experience that Senators focus only on pleasing those who fund their campaigns, and they are more than willing to forget the niceties of democracy to get those funds."
"Not another lecture, Master," Anakin said with a profound sigh. He's heard this many times before. "At least not on the economics of politics."
"Besides, your generalizing. To judge someone based on the actions of others is considered shortsighted. You taught me that," nodding his head at him. "I know that some politicians are dirty and have secret agendas, but Senator Amidala is passionate about her ideal and dedicated to serving her homeworld and preserving democracy. But the Chancellor, however, is someone we should be cautious around."
"On that, we agree," Obi-Wan acknowledges as he to become wary of the Chancellor's motives as of late. "I've observed that he is very clever at following the passions and prejudices of the Senators."
"My senses tell—" Anakin was cut off when he sensed something dangerous in Padmé's room.
"I sense it, too," Obi-Wan said breathlessly, and the two Jedi exploded into motion.
Running into the room, Anakin grabbed the lightsaber hanging off his belt, ignited it, letting the saber hum alive, and jumped onto Padmé's bed and slashed his saber, cutting the two kouhuns apart. Padmé immediately woke up with a startled look.
Obi-Wan then looked at the window, where he saw what released the kouhuns. "A courier droid!" He shouted.
"Master, wait. . ." Anakin tried, but it was too late. Obi-Wan immediately ran and jumped out of the bedroom window, where he grabbed hold of the retreating assassin droid. "Damn it, and he says I sometimes do things without thinking."
"Stay here!" Anakin instructed. He rushed out the door as Captain Typho and a pair of guards, along with the handmaiden Dormé, charged in.
"Are you all right, Milady?" A concerned Dormé asked.
"Yes, I'm fine," Padmé said, obviously still startled by what happened. Two of the guards went over to collect the dead kouhuns as Captain Typho ordered the rest to secure the area. Then it hit her as Anakin saw her in her nightgown. She was lucky there was barely any light as her face was completely red.
(0^0)
"Blast, this is one of the worst things I've done in life," Obi-Wan said as he desperately held onto the courier droid as it flew through the heavy traffic while ducking and dodging the several speeders. Anakin, where are you?! I can use some help!
I'm on my way. Where are you? Anakin sent back while driving a speeder through traffic.
Flying through the city, hanging onto an assassin probe.
That's a real help, Anakin said in a sarcastic voice. Wait, hold on, I see you. Jamming the throttle down, he sped through the heavy traffic with an incredibly dangerous amount of speed.
The bounty hunter Zam saw the Jedi hanging desperately onto the probe as it tried to ram into speeders and other objects. Knowing the kouhuns were likely dead, she took her rifle and destroyed the courier the Jedi held onto with a single blaster bolt. Seeing there was no more she could do; she hopped into her speeder and took off.
Spotting that the droid had been destroyed and Obi-Wan falling, Anakin maneuvered the speeder to dive under him. Just when he thought his Master wasn't going to make it, he grabbed onto the speeder at the last minute and pulled himself into the passenger's seat. "Seems like you had fun," Anakin quipped.
"Very funny," Obi-Wan didn't seem amused in the slightest. "What took you so long?"
"I had to pick out a random speeder," Anakin said. Of course, one with an open cockpit and the right speed capabilities to catch up to you. And then, the color. That is very important—"
"Not now!" Obi-Wan cried as they dangerously sped through traffic while coming too close to some speeders heading in the opposite direction. "Blast it, Anakin. You're going to get us killed!"
"Sorry, Master," Anakin chuckled. "I forgot that you don't like flying."
"I don't mind flying," Obi-Wan insisted, "but what you do is. . . Suicide!" Obi-Wan yelled. Anakin saw that the assassin was heading down into the lower levels of Coruscant, and he followed, steering downward. A little too downward for Obi-Wan's taste. A large carrier came from the left, and they headed right for it.
"Pull up, Anakin! Pull up!" Ben ordered. Anakin laughed and then pulled up at the last second.
"Sorry, I couldn't resist," he replied innocently.
Obi-Wan shot him a look. The assassin sped through an industrial area, took her blaster, and shot the electromagnetic field, making it spark.
"Anakin, go around!" Obi-Wan called. Anakin did as he said and went around the field. Obi-Wan was about to continue but saw the assassin take a different path, but Anakin kept going straight.
"Where are you going?! He went that way!" Obi-Wan yelled.
"Relax, this is a shortcut," Anakin replied, a little unsure. "I think," he added, causing Obi-Wan to frown at him. Soon, there was no sign of the assassin, and Anakin halted the speeder.
"Great. . .now you've lost him," Obi-Wan scolded.
"I'm deeply sorry. But if you'll excuse me. I have an assassin to catch," Anakin said, hopping out of the speeder and descending into the traffic with incredible speed.
"I hate it when he does that," Obi-Wan groaned incredulously, shaking his head, and immediately took the controls to follow him.
Anakin landed on the assassin's speeder and thrust his saber through the roof. Zam Wessel swerved, and Anakin lost his hold on his saber, which Obi-Wan caught, as it floated back toward him. Zam swerved, trying to get rid of the young Jedi. She tried to get him by firing blaster bolts but missed every time. He reached in through the hole in the roof, grabbing her hand. He made her accidentally shoot the controls with her blaster. The speeder was smoking, and she lost control, crashing into the streets of the lower levels. Anakin was thrown into a bunch of storage containers. "Kriff, that was not a good idea," Anakin muttered as he pulled himself to his feet while trying to ignore his pain.
Seeing that the assassin had gotten out of her wrecked speeder, she immediately took off, running into a large crowd with Anakin quickly running behind her. The assassin ran into a club just as Obi-Wan parked the speeder at the club entrance and hopped out to meet his Padawan.
"Anakin!" Obi-Wan called out as Anakin closed in on the club.
"The bounty hunter is a changeling. She went into the club," Anakin said.
"Well, in that case, we should be extra careful," Obi-Wan held Anakin's lightsaber up to his face.
"You cannot be so reckless. This weapon is your life," Obi-Wan lectured.
"You really want to talk about being reckless? Instead of using the Force to pull the droid inside, you jumped through the Senator's bedroom window and flew through the city like a crazy person. Do you really want to compare notes on who was more reckless?" Anakin retorted.
"Good point," Obi-Wan replied as he headed into the noisy establishment after Anakin retook his lightsaber and clipped it to his belt. "Go find her," gesturing for Anakin to head in one direction while he went the opposite.
"Where are you going, Master?" Anakin asked, wondering what was on Obi-Wan's mind.
"For a drink," Obi-Wan replied. Anakin grunted and rolled his eyes to see his Master heading for the bar. He then began searching for the assassin through the noisy club.
Obi-Wan sat in one of the open bar chairs and requested a brandy.
"You wanna buy some death sticks?" An alien with antennas asked Obi-Wan as he sipped his brandy.
"You don't want to sell me death sticks," he said, waving his fingers in front of the alien's face.
"I don't want to sell you death sticks," the alien repeated.
Again he waved his finger and said. "You want to go home and rethink your life."
"I want to go home and rethink my life," he readily agreed and went to leave the club.
Obi-Wan's sensed the changeling coming up behind him and had her blaster out, ready to fire. Just as she got near, he ignited his saber and slashed it. Zam screamed in pain as her arm was severed by the Jedi.
"Easy. Jedi business, go back to your drinks," Anakin said to the patrons as he and Obi-Wan escorted the assassin out of the club and into a back alley.
"Do you know who you were trying to kill?" Obi-Wan asked.
"The Senator from Naboo," Zam easily said like it was obvious.
"Who hired you?" Obi-Wan asked.
"It's just a job," she replied with a glare, not wanting to say anymore.
"Tell us who hired you!" Anakin demanded; however, when she didn't say anything, he demanded again but with more power in his voice. "Tell us now!"
"It was a bounty hunter called—" Before she could give the name, a dart hit her in the neck. Obi-Wan briefly saw an armored figure before he flew away with his jet pack. Zam reverted to her natural Clawdite form before she took her last breath and passed away. Obi-Wan pulled the dart from her throat.
They tore their eyes away from the changeling as she began reverting back to her true form to see a wearing grey armor and a jetpack fly away into Coruscant's night sky. Obi-Wan looked back to the dead alien and pulled the dart from her neck, holding it up for Anakin to see. "Toxic dart."
"Well, this certainly raises some questions," Anakin sighed. "However, I may have an idea of how a few of them could be answered." Obi-Wan looked at him with a questioning look. "The brain survives a few minutes after death." He then used the Force to look into the dead assassin's mind for any clues.
Unfortunately, he had to exit her mind after a few minutes as it was mostly gone. He could only get some images and hear a familiar maniacal laugh. "This keeps getting better," Anakin sarcastically remarked, pinching the bridge of his nose.
A/N: Here it is, people: The Attack of the Clones. However, just a little heads up here, I have a few things in mind in which I feel the direction of the story should have gone.
Next Chapter: A new assignment