Chapter 8
Jedi bodyguards
Above the capital-planet of Coruscant, a J-type Naboo Cruiser jumped out of hyperspace, joined by three Naboo Starfighter escorts. On board the Naboo Cruiser, was Senator Padmé Amidala.
A male Royal Naboo Security officer came over to the senator, telling "Senator, we make our final approach into Coruscant."
The woman, appearing to be Senator Amidala, gave him a nod "Very good, Lieutenant."
However, as part of protecting Padmé, the woman dressed and appearing to be the Naboo senator was actually a decoy named Cordé. As the real Padmé was piloting one of the Naboo Starfighters, with nobody else knowing of it, except the head of the senator's security, Captain Typho, who too was piloting one of the three Naboo Starfighters.
Flying close to the Naboo Cruiser and the other two starfighters, Padmé descended into the atmosphere of Coruscant, heading into a thick cloud of fog between the many tall structures of the Coruscant skyline, all landing on the designated floating landing platform.
Padmé exited her Naboo Starfighter, followed by her trusty Astro-droid, R2-D2. However, Padmé did not removed her piloting hat and mask to keep her identity a secret.
Captain Typho joined Padmé, removing his helmet, giving a sigh of relief "We made it." the disguised senator, followed by a Naboo security officers, began to walk out of the Naboo Cruiser "I guess I was wrong. There was no danger at all." Typho said with a ensuring smile, seeing that the death threats to the senator were nothing but words and meant nothing. Padmé too was a bit relieved.
But just as Cordé puts one step on the landing platform, the Naboo Cruiser suddenly exploded! The force of the explosion pushed Padmé, Typho and R2-D2 backwards, followed by two more explosions, destroying what was left of the cruiser!
Typho and Padmé looked in shock as they stood up. Typho was wrong. Someone was planning to kill Senator Amidala, and had almost succeeded.
Padmé ran towards the now destroyed Naboo Cruiser, with bodies spread over the landing platform, all dead. She ran to her decoy, Cordé, who was still breathing but was fatally injured, while alarms began to sound and other security and emergency services were warned.
"Cordé!" Padmé said with horror as she fell on her knees before her, removing her hat and mask to check on her.
Cordé was heavily bleeding, looking at Padmé "Milady…" she said, knowing she was dying "I'm so sorry… I failed you senator…"
Padmé shook her head as she held Cordé "No…"
Cordé closed her eyes… She was dead.
Typho went over to her, holding his blaster in hand "Milady, you're still in danger here." He knew that it wasn't safe for Padmé to linger around here longer.
Padmé, still looking at the now dead Cordé, slowly stood up, feeling responsible for her death and the other security officers that didn't survived the explosion "I shouldn't have come back."
However, Typho told her that Cordé knew to what she'd signed up for and reminded her "This vote is very important. You did your duty. Cordé did hers. Now, come." But as he was about to go, Padmé just stood there, frozen as she still looked at Cordé's body and the other dead men "Senator Amidala, please." Typho told her with a stern tone.
Padmé gave a small nod and went with Typho away from the platform, with R2-D2 coming after them.
-:-
Sometime later, in Chancellor Palpatine's office
With the assassination attempt on Senator Amidala having shocked the Senate and the Republic, all were relieved that Padmé had survived and was unarmed.
Despite that on this day the vote on the Military motion would finally be decided, Palpatine knew that the failed attempt on Padmé's life would too much overshadow and influence the outcome of the vote. So, he decided it was best to postponed the vote to tomorrow.
In his office, Palpatine was discussing the matter with some members of the Jedi Council; Yoda, Mace Windu, Shaak Ti, Ki-Adi-Mundi, Plo Koon and Kit Fisto.
Some other Jedi were there present as well; Jedi Knight Dia Zebb, Jedi Master Benjako Dalkai, Jedi Master Luminara Unduli and her Padawan, Barriss Offee.
Despite the other Jedi masters advised the chancellor that it was maybe for best to postponed on voting on the Military Creation Act indefinitely, Palpatine however wasn't sure if it this was a good idea as his administration was under pressure by the Senators as the threat of the Separatists could no longer be ignored with more planets intending to leave the Republic.
"We understand the increasingly amount of pressure, Chancellor." Shaak Ti said with sympahty.
"Then you must know that I don't know how much longer I can hold off the vote, my friends," Palpatine stated "More and more star systems are joining the Separatists."
Mace Windu then said "If they do break away-"
"I will not let this Republic that stood for a thousand years be split in two," Palpatine said determined, interrupting Windu "My negotiations will not fail."
Windu repeated what he wanted to say to the chancellor the consequences if more systems leave the Republic "If they do, you must realize there aren't enough Jedi to protect the Republic. We're keepers of the peace, not soldiers." Windu stated firmly.
However, Shaak Ti was mentally angry that the Council she's part of doesn't do anything to stop this crisis as they only take orders from the Senate, though able to hide her thoughts 'Dammit! If the other Councilmembers weren't holding themselves back by the wishes of the Senate or the outdated Jedi-Code and just let the Force guide them, then maybe this whole crisis with the Outer-Rim systems could've been prevented! And maybe we could've even stopped Dooku in time.'
Yoda nodded, agreeing with Mace Windu, but was just as worry about the growing threat of the Separatists.
"Master Yoda," Palpatine asked, with Yoda glancing at the chancellor "Do you think it will really come to war?"
Yoda sighed, not knowing the answer "The Dark Side clouds everything. Impossible to see the future is."
As it was confirmed ten years ago that the Sith indeed had returned, Yoda and the other Councilmembers could no longer see what the Dark Lord of the Sith is truly planning, nor even finding the source of where this growing darkness was coming from.
Dia sighed, feeling the same about the incompetence of what the Jedi Order has become, clearly forgotten their true ways. Barriss was feeling the same thing.
A small holographic image appeared of a male Rodian appeared on Palpatine's desk, who's the Chancellor's assistant, saying in his native language to Palpatine "The Loyalist Committee has arrive, Your Honor."
"Good," Palpatine said "Send them in," he told as he stood up from his chair "We will discuss this matter later." Palpatine told the Councilmembers, as it was best to discuss the postponing of the vote another day.
The door slid open, with the Vice Chairman, Mas Amedda coming in first, followed by Senator Padmé Amidala, representative Jar Jar Binks, Captain Typho, Padmé's handmaiden and friend Dormé and a few other friendly senators who were also against the Military motion, including Senator Bail Organa of Alderaan.
Mace Windu remained in this thoughts for a moment while the other Councilmembers rose up from their chairs to meet the senators. While Barriss Offee and her master left, Dia and Benjako however remained in the chancellor's office for a bit longer.
Yoda walked up to Padmé, saying with sympathy what she had to go through this morning "Senator Amidala, your tragedy on the landing platform, terrible," but then said with a relieving smile "Seeing you alive brings warm feelings to my heart."
Though Padmé was thankful for Yoda's sympathy, she still was determined to know wanted to have her dead "Do you have any idea who was behind this attack?"
Mace Windu then stated, as to what information they've gathered so far "Our intelligence points to disgruntled spice miners on the moons of Naboo."
However, the Alderanian Jedi Master Benjako shook his head "I don't think this is the work of simple spice miners, Master Windu."
Ki-Adi-Mundi, Windu and Yoda glanced at Benjako.
Dia agreed with her former mentor "Master Dalkai is right. The way this attack was carried out could only be the work of professionals, possibly hired to kill Senator Amidala," Dia glanced at Padmé "People that were hired to kill you, senator, could only be someone who really wants this Military Creation Act to pass no matter what."
Padmé was surprised that the Twi'Lek Jedi Knight and her old Jedi Master disagreed with the Jedi Council, but nodded as she told what her guts was telling her who was behind this attack "Then there's only one person I can think of who's truly behind the attack. Count Dooku."
Ki-Adi-Mundi however stated "He is a political idealist, not a murderer."
"You know, milady, Count Dooku was once a Jedi," Mace added, being sure that Dooku would never do something as evil as this "He couldn't assassinate anyone. It's not in his character."
Shaak Ti however was unsure to not suspecting Dooku to be possibly behind the attack, and stated "Though you may be right about that, Master Windu, but if we want to find those responsible for the attack on the senator's life, it is best that we leave all options open for possible suspects, including Count Dooku."
Yoda glanced at Shaak Ti for a moment, nodding "True you are, Master Shaak Ti," then he glanced back at Padmé "But, for certain it is, in grave danger you are."
Palpatine then suggested "Master Jedi, may I suggest the senator be placed under the protection of your graces?"
Senator Organa was unsure if this is a good idea "Do you really think that's a wise decision under these stressful times?"
Padmé also disagreed with Palpatine "Chancellor, if I may comment, I do not believe-"
"That the situation is that serious?" Palpatine finished her sentence "No, but I do, Senator. I realize all too well that additional security might be disruptive for you, as that the perpetrator hasn't been found yet, but, perhaps someone you're familiar with." He then suggested "An old friend like… Master Jinn."
Padmé froze for a moment, thinking of the only Jedi that has that family name 'Jinn? Qui-Gon Jinn?' she then thought about Anakin, which made her feel warm inside 'Anakin…'
Windu thought that this was perhaps a good idea "That's possible. He and his Padawan have just returned from a border dispute on Ansion."
Palpatine walked up to Padmé, telling she should take this into deep consideration "Do this for me, milady. Please? The thought of losing you… is unbearable."
Shaak Ti then thought, having tried to see how she could help getting Dia and Anakin back together, she thought that protecting Senator Amidala might be the perfect opportunity for them to be close again. She could try to convince Yoda and the other Councilmembers to send Dia to help her too.
"I will have Qui-Gon report to you immediately, milady," Mace ensured Padmé.
Padmé nodded "Thank you, Master Windu."
As the rest of the Councilmembers and the other Jedi left Palpatine's office, Shaak Ti asked Yoda "Master Yoda… If I may?"
Yoda stopped and glanced at Shaak Ti "What on your mind you have, Master Shaak Ti?"
"May I suggest that perhaps it would be best to have another Jedi to protect Senator Amidala?"
Yoda was unsure, as he thought that Qui-Gon and Anakin would be enough to protect Padmé. But, curious to hear who Shaak Ti had in mind to send, he asked "And who in mind, have you?"
-:-
A few hours later, at the Senate Apartment Complex
Down below at the street level, Qui-Gon and Anakin had arrived at the apartment complex where Padmé was living.
Anakin was feeling conflicted in his mind. Though he hadn't seen Padmé in over ten years, the thought of seeing her again after such a long time did make him feel exited, but at the same time was struggling mentally cause he still had feelings for Dia while this force was putting in his mind that he and Padmé should be together, though this force has become weaker ever since he'd saved his mother from being abducted by Tusken Raiders.
Qui-Gon asked, as they walked up the stairs to the entrance "You seem to be a bit on edge. Is something bothering you, Anakin?"
Anakin gave a shrug, trying to brush it off at first, but knowing he couldn't fool his master, he stated "It's… nothing, Master. It's just that I haven't seen Padmé in almost ten years. I wander if she will even remember me."
Qui-Gon ensured him "Have nothing to worry about, Anakikn. I'm sure she still remembers the both of us."
Anakin nodded, being sure that his master was right. But still, he wished that… Dia was here right now.
But just as they made it to the entrance, Anakin's wish had somehow come true "Hey!" a voice called as she ran over to them.
Anakin froze for a moment, as his heart had skipped a heartbeat. He and Qui-Gon turned.
"Dia," Qui-Gon greeted her, but asked "What are you doing here?"
Dia stated "Master Yoda and Master Shaak Ti send me, to help you protecting the Senator."
Anakin blinked his eyes "Re-really?" he stuttered a bit "But… I-I thought only me and Qui-Gon were supposed to protect Padmé?" but quickly ensured her in a bit of panic "No-not that-that's anything wrong with it, of course!" Anakin now felt stupid for stuttering like that.
Dia raised an eyebrow at Anakin, never having him seen this nervous, but did formed a smile as it amused her.
Qui-Gon stepped in and said with a smile "Well, the more the better, I suppose." Clearly he wasn't even bothered that Dia was joining them protecting Padmé, seeing that it could be a good time for the two of them to spend more time together, as Qui-Gon had noticed how Anakin and Dia have becoming more closer together, just as when they secretly dated three years ago.
When stepping into the elevator, pressing the button to go to the top floor where Padmé's apartment was located, Anakin and Dia were very quiet as they stood close next to each other. With Dia having the urge to stand really close to Anakin, wanting to feel his body heat against hers. Anakin was feeling almost the same, but still struggled in his mind as he wanted to focus on Dia more while the other part thought of Padmé.
Qui-Gon could sense what Anakin and Dia were thinking. So, out of amusement, he told "Well, Anakin, I honestly haven't felt you this tense as since we fell into that nest of gundarks." He reminded Anakin of one of the first missions they went together.
Anakin chuckled and reminded Qui-Gon "You were the one that fell into that nightmare, Master and I rescued you, remember?"
Qui-Gon thought about it for a little moment "Hmmm… yes, you have." He chuckled too.
Dia giggled, as Anakin told her all about that mission and he'd bravely fought the baby-Gundarks to safe Qui-Gon "I would've loved to see that." But then said "Though getting into a next with Gundarks doesn't sound as bad as when I was almost eaten by those giant spiders back on Felucia." She said with a bit of discomfort, as that memory of back when she was 14 and got ambushed by giant spiders during hers and Master Dalkai's mission on Felucia, with Dia having barely escaped with her life before becoming a spider-snack.
Anakin nodded and out of his own movement placed his arm around her "Yeah… but I was there to comfort you, remember?"
Feeling Anakin's touch, made Dia feel frozen for a few seconds, feeling like her heart had skipped a heartbeat. But formed a small smile "Yes… you were…"
Qui-Gon could only smile to feel the happiness coming from Anakin and Dia.
Dia had the urge to rest her head on Anakin's shoulder, but their little romantic moment was disturbed when the elevator made it to the designated floor and the elevator doors opened, showing a certain Gungan waiting there who Anakin and Qui-Gon recognized.
"Qui-Gon?" Jar Jar asked, before calling with delight "Qui-Gon!" and heavily shook Qui-Gon's hand "Mesa so smilen to seein yousa!"
Qui-Gon nodded "Good to see again, Jar Jar."
Dia was a bit surprised to see the Gungan's reaction like that, but Anakin gave her an ensuring smile as he knew Jar Jar Binks from when he was saved from slavery on Tatooine.
Jar Jar guided Qui-Gon, Dia and Anakin into the apartment "Senator Padmé. Mesa palos here! Lookie, lookie, Senator. Desa Jedi arriven."
Padmé walked over to them with a smile, with Captain Typho and Dormé following her.
Qui-Gon gave Padmé a bow "It's a great pleasure to see you again, milady."
Padmé was happy to see Qui-Gon again after more than a decade "It has been far too long, Master Qui-Gon."
Dia then stepped to her "We have already met back in the Chancellor's office, milady, but I hadn't introduced myself yet. I'm Dia Zebb."
Padmé nodded, already knowing her name "Yes, Master Shaak Ti had already informed me that you would come. It's a pleasure to meet you, Dia Zebb," but then she glanced with surprise at Anakin, seeing him in real life than the few Holonet news reports she'd seen "Ani? My goodness you've grown."
Anakin smiled and stepped forward "So have you…" but then cleared his throat "Uh, well, that you're now a senator instead being a queen, I mean."
Dia raised an eyebrow at Anakin for reacting like that to Padmé. But knew that Anakin had met Senator Amidala already before, making it obvious that because they hadn't seen each other in over a decade, that seeing each other again in a total different appearance was expected.
Padmé smiled, as Anakin's character hasn't changed much "Ani, you'll always be that little boy I knew on Tatooine."
As they further entered the living room, Qui-Gon ensured Padmé "Our presence here will be invisible, milady, I can assure you."
Typho then introduced himself as Anakin and Qui-Gon sat on one couch while Padmé and Dormé sat on the other across, with Dia standing behind Anakin and Qui-Gon "I'm Captain Typho on her Majesty's security service. Queen Jamillia has been informed of your assignment. I am grateful you are here, Master Jinn," he then glanced to Dia "and your help is more than welcome as well, Dia Zebb." Dia gave him a nod "The situation is more dangerous than the senator will admit."
"Which is why we're here to protect her and making sure that whoever the killer is won't strike again." Dia ensured.
Padmé sighed, not wanting to remain hidden and being constantly guarded "I don't need more security. I need answers. I want to know who's trying to kill me."
Qui-Gon nodded in understanding "We all understand you want answers, Senator, and so do we. With merely our presence, the mystery surrounding this threat will be revealed."
Anakin ensured Padmé "Yes. We will find out who's trying to kill you, Padmé. That's a promise."
Padmé did formed a small smile of hope "I thank you for your help. From all three of you," she and Dormé then rose up "Now, if you'll excuse me, I will retire."
Qui-Gon, Anakin and Dia gave her a small bow as she and Dormé left for her room.
Captain Typho walked with Qui-Gon for a moment "I know I'll feel better having you here. I'll have an officer stationed on every floor and I'll be in the control center downstairs."
Jar Jar went to have a little talk with Anakin, being happy to see him again too "Mesa busten wit happiness seein yousa again, Ani."
Anakin nodded before glancing at Padmé for a short moment "I am glad to see that she still remembers me, Jar Jar."
Jar Jar nodded "Shesa happy. Happier den mesa seein her in a longo time," but then she spoke about his worries "Yousa help is mure dan needed. Theesa are bombad times."
Dia then staid, standing next to Anakin "That's why an extra hand around here sure will help, right?" she asked Anakin.
Anakin glanced at Dia, nodding "It sure does."
Qui-Gon then walked up to them as Jar Jar left "She was pleased to see us. Now, let's check the security.
"Yes, Master." Anakin said before he and Dia were going to start their task of being Padmé's Jedi bodyguards.
-:-
Later, that same night, somewhere in the lower levels of Coruscant
A green/yellow Koro-2 all-environment exodrive airspeeder parked at an abandoned parking lot, behind a bar. From the speeder, a human female named Zam Wesell stepped out of it, meeting the Mandalorian bounty hunter Jango Fett in the shadows.
Zam explained as it wasn't her fault that she failed a simple assignment to blow up Padmé's Naboo Cruiser "I hit the ship, but they used a decoy."
Jango was disappointed at her for failing such a simple assignment, but knew they had to try something else and told her "We'll have to try something more subtle this time, Zam. My client is getting impatient." he handed over a cylinder container, carrying two very poisonous Kouhun insects in it "Take these. Be careful. They're very poisonous." Zam took them and was about to leave, but Jango warned her "And Zam, there can be no mistakes this time." Zam didn't answer and just puts a cover over her mouth, leaving with her airspeeder up to the higher levels.
-:-
Meanwhile, back at Padmé's apartment
Dia walked into the living room, putting her long brown Jedi robe down on the couch as she said "Captain Typho has more than enough men downstairs. I doubt any assassin would try that way, but we can't be for sure."
Anakin, who also had taken of his long Jedi robe, nodded and asked "Where is Master Qui-Gon?"
"He's checking every floor to be sure everything is secure. He'll be back in like an hour or so." Dia stated "Any activity up here?"
Anakin shook his head "Quiet as a tomb." He then sighed, not feeling right about this "I don't like just waiting here for something to happen to her."
Dia shared the same worry with Anakin and took out her video-cam device "Me neither, Ani." but as she saw nothing but a blank screen, she frowned "What's going on?"
"Ah, she covered the cameras. I don't think she likes us watching her." Anakin explained, as Padmé didn't liked to be watched with the few security cameras installed in her bedroom.
Dia shook her head as that wasn't a good idea of Padmé "What is she thinking? Now nobody will ever see if something will happen to her."
"She programmed R2 to warn us if there is an intruder." Anakin told her.
However, Dia wasn't so sure if R2 will be enough to keep watching Padmé "There are many other ways to kill a senator."
"I know, but we also want to catch this assassin, don't we, Dia? We both and Qui-Gon want to know who's trying to kill her after all."
Dia raised an eyebrow at Anakin "Hang on. Are you using her as bait?" she crossed her arms.
Anakin shrugged "It was Padmé's idea. Nothing to worry, no harm will come to her. Besides, we're able to sense everything going on in that room."
Dia sighed when glancing to Padmé bedroom door "I know we can. But it's still risky," then she said to him, though teasing him a bit "I begin to doubt that your senses are that attuned, Anakin."
"Are your senses attuned then?" Anakin teased her back while crossing his arms.
Dia glanced back at him, giving a shrug "Possibly."
They were quiet for a moment, before both chuckled.
-:-
A few districts away from the Senator Apartment Complex
Zam had parked with her airspeeder at a safe location, modifying her ASN-121 floating droid to target Senator Amidala's apartment. She placed the cylinder carrying the Kouhun insects inside the droid and the flying droid flew off, heading to where to deliver the package.
Zam gave a simple nod, waiting around the corner for her droid to have carried out the task.
-:-
Back with Anakin and Dia
Anakin stood at the balcony for a moment, looking over the Coruscant skyline. He then glanced at Dia, sitting at one of the couches, feeling a bit bored.
Being around with Dia began to feel… intoxicating for Anakin, even though he liked to have her around him. Anakin then looked back over the many skyscrapers and endless airspeeders flying around.
Dia then glanced at Anakin, feeling the same thing but didn't know what to say. Taking a bit of courage while she blushed, she walked over to Anakin, standing next to him at the balcony, asking as she too looked at the endless landscape of skyscrapers "What's on your mind, Ani?"
Anakin gave a shrug "I was just… thinking back of the missions we've been on over the years."
Dia nodded "Those were some adventures we shared, huh?"
"Yeah."
Both walked back into the living room and sat on a couch.
"It's amazing how we've been through everything, and still stand here," Dia stated, telling of one of their shared adventures "When we traveled to Ilum together with our masters for your new Kyber Crystal."
Anakin remembered "Yeah," he felt awkward about it as he took out his lightsaber, but then smiled "But I have been doing better at keeping it safe and not losing it." he then looked at her "I did really appreciated that you wanted to come, despite you didn't needed one."
Dia chuckled as she reminded him "Honestly, the only way I could be there to join you, was because Master Dalkai was guiding a few younglings to have their own Kyber Crystals too as part of their Initiate Trials."
"True," Anakin nodded "But the other adventures we shared were also amazing. Like when we'd sabotaged that bounty hunter's speeder at Ryloth?"
Dia chuckled at that memory "Luckily the mud broke his fall when he crashed, so we could catch him alive. But it was not as amazing when we got stuck on that transport heading to Dantooine."
Anakin chuckled "Yeah, but, let's be honest, THAT was an accident."
"Maybe, but I still got into a lot of trouble with Master Dalkai when they finally found us after two days of searching," Dia reminded him as how they got stuck together on that spice-trader's ship.
"We both got into trouble with our masters when they found us, but they eventually forgave us when we explained it to them, remember?" Anakin said.
Dia nodded "I know."
"And when we protected the king of Onderon, man, that was… some…" Anakin stopped, as he told of their mission on Onderon, thinking back of when he and Dia shared their first kiss. Anakin glanced at Dia, who blushed deeply while forming a small smile.
Anakin gave a deep sigh and held Dia's hand, making her look at Anakin.
With a heavy heart, Anakin tried to say and held both her hands "Dia… I… I'm so sorry about the way things ended between us…"
Dia began to look sad and looked away.
Anakin knew that though he cared so much for her, and she for him, he sensed that she was still hurt of that painful moment when he broke up "I know that I'd hurt your feelings that day, Dia… but, lately… I thought about it more and more and…" he grew frustrated "…and I realized that I was so stupid!"
Dia looked at him with a mixture of surprise and some sadness.
"I was stupid to think that… that The Force was telling me- both of us that we shouldn't be together!" Anakin raised his voice, though not trying to be too loud that would wake up Padmé.
Anakin saw that her eyes began to get teary.
"When I was…" Anakin tried to say "When I was… this close to… kill all those Tusken Raiders for hurting my mother, I…" words failed him.
Dia shoved a bit closer to him, waiting for what he wanted to share.
He felt that he was screwing things up again. So, he rose up and tried to dismiss it "Never mind… I won't start about this again."
But Dia quickly rose up and held his hand "Anakin… wait…!"
Anakin looked back at her, looking into her beautiful eyes.
"I too miss what we once shared, Ani…" a tear fell from Dia's right eye "But, please… don't shut me out. Just tell me." she knew that it was about his mother, who he'd saved last month from being abducted by Tusken Raiders and was this close to murder the sand people in blind rage for hurting Shmi, but he held himself at the very last moment when she was able to mentally call out to him, begging not to do it as it would lead him to the Dark Side.
Anakin sighed and told "When I… raised my lightsaber… ready to kill them all… I…" he softly stroke her cheek "I heard your voice in my head… screaming my name… It was then that I… finally realized what I almost did and that I had almost… broke my promise to you. And I was so hurt and ashamed of it… that I had failed you… and I would lose you forever…"
Unknown to Anakin and Dia, Zam's ASN-121 droid was floating before Padmé glass window, using green lasers to open the security field around it, floating right before the glass window, making a hole in it and opened the cylinder, releasing the two Kouhun insects and they fell on the ground.
The small poisonous insects could immediately sense the warm heated body of Padmé, and crawled over to her bed.
R2 could sense there was some movement and turned on, which made the Kouhun hide. R2 used its flashlight to look around, but only seeing Padmé laying on the bed, sleeping peacefully. R2 turned off.
The two Kouhun crawled closer to Padmé, with one on the bed and the other crawling over the wall.
Back in the living room with Anakin and Dia, the Twi'Lek girl said as she stroke Anakin's arm "I'm just glad that you made the right choice then, Anakin…" she moved a bit closer to him "And I… understand why you broke up…" she moved her hands to Anakin's face, placing them on his cheeks "And maybe… we could start over… if we could…?"
Anakin sighed, wanting to say that he loves her. Though in his mind, this force tried to talk him out of it, Anakin tried to fight it now, wanting to just tell Dia.
Dia could sense that Anakin failed to say the right words. She softly stroke his cheek as he face moved closer to him "Don't be afraid, Ani… Just… tell me."
"Dia…" he wanted to say how he truly feels for her, even shouting it out if he wanted "Dia… I… I lo-" suddenly he and Dia sensed danger inside Padmé's room!
Both glanced at the door "I sense it too!" and ran towards Padmé's bedroom!
At the bed, the two Kouhuns were this close to sting Padmé with their very poisonous stingers.
Anakin and Dia burst into her room, with Anakin activating his blue lightsaber and jumped on Padmé's bed, killing the two Kouhuns in two swift strikes!
Padmé gasped as she woke up with a start.
Dia saw the floating droid outside the window. She rushed to the window as the droid was about to escape, jumping right through the glass window and grabbed on the droid as it flew away over the Coruscant skyline!
"Stay here!" Anakin told Padmé and ran out of her room while Captain Typho and a few security guards along with Dormé ran inside the bedroom to check on Padmé.
"Are you alright, milady?" Dormé asked worriedly. Padmé nodded, though still in shock that she was this close of being assassinated again.
Anakin, while running downstairs to head to the nearest airspeeder parking lot, contacted Qui-Gon "Master! There was another attack on Padmé!"
"What happened, Anakin?"
"A small droid tried to poison Padmé with some Kouhun insects!" Anakin stated as he'd arrived at the parking lot, seeing a couple of air-speeders "Dia has grabbed on the droid that will lead to the assassin! I'm going out to help her!" he saw a yellow XJ-6 airspeeder with a seemingly fast engine and ran to it.
Qui-Gon knew that Anakin had to catch up to Dia, but told him "Activate your tracking beacon so I can meet you where you two are."
"I will, master." Anakin said before breaking contact, quickly activating his small tracking device while turning on the air-speeder and flew out of the parking lot, heading to where Dia was going with the droid.
Dia meanwhile tried hard to hold on to the droid, not wanting to fall down. The droid tried to get her off of her and slammed against a nearby wall, but Dia still hang on. The droid then flew into the oncoming traffic, making many of the airspeeders to avoid her!
"What the-?!" a guy yelled before he narrowly avoided Dia.
Another taxi-speeder, with a wealthy Dug onboard, too narrowly avoided her, much to the Dug passenger's anger "Jedi poo doo!"
Anakin used his senses to find Dia, going one way into another "Hold on, Dia… I'm coming." He whispered to himself, not allowing anything to happen to her.
Meanwhile, Zam saw with her binoculars a Twi'Lek Jedi Knight hanging on to her droid. She cursed herself, knowing that she'd failed her assignment again and the Jedi were on to her now. Not wanting that stupid droid lead the Jedi back to her, she took out her sniper-blaster from her speeder and aimed at her droid with Dia hanging on to it.
Dia could sense that someone was aiming it's sniper-blaster at her, making her look with wide eyes.
Zam waited to get a clear shot… and then fired her sniper-riffle, destroying the droid!
Dia fell down!
Zam quickly got into her speeder, and flew away fast.
Anakin then saw Dia falling down, making him hurrying to drop down, trying to catch her up with his speeder.
Dia caught onto Anakin's speeder and climbed onto the passengers eat, signing in relief "What took you so long?"
"Sorry for that, Dia. I couldn't find a speeder that I liked with the open cockpit and the right speeding capabilities."
Dia pointed to where she saw the assassin leaving with her speeder "There! There he is."
Anakin nodded and pursuits the perpetrator.
Both flew against the upcoming traffic before Zam took a nosedive, with Anakin going after her.
Dia held on to something, even though she knew that Anakin was a very skilled pilot.
Suddenly, a big ship flew between the buildings. Zam easily avoided it but Anakin was heading nosedive straight to it.
"Anakin, look out! Pull up! Pull up!" Dia yelled.
Anakin did pull up just in time.
Dia panted "Please… don't ever do that again."
Anakin nodded "Right. Sorry."
Anakin's speeder, still in pursuit of Zam, flew into an industrial section, flying pass by some industry fires, but Anakin masterfully avoided the obstacles.
Zam then saw they were heading towards two big purple power couplings. She took out her blaster and shot at one of them, making them activate just before she flew past them, creating a purple lightning barrier, with Anakin heading straight for it!
"Watch out!" Dia called, but both were hit with some massive electricity, but passed through the barrier.
Zam was in a bit of panic that she was still unable to escape the two Jedi. She flew into upcoming traffic before taking a sharp left turn, heading into a tunnel.
Anakin however did not went after her and took a different turn.
Confused, Dia looked back where the assassin flew to "Wait. Where are you going? He went that way."
Anakin however showed her some determine, having had enough playing games with the assassin "Dia, if we keep this chase going any longer, that creep is gonna end up deep-fried, and, personally, I'd very much like to find out who he is and who he's working for." He ensured Dia as he had a plan "This is a short cut. Trust me." he took then a left turn, going where he could feel where Zam would head to.
Zam meanwhile, exited the tunnel, not seeing the two Jedi after her anymore. Confidently, she removed her mouth mask and rejoined the traffic, being sure she'd lost the Jedi.
Back with Dia and Anakin, he slowed down his speeder, staying in midair, not seeing the assassin.
Dia looked around, cursing herself "Dammit. We lost him."
Anakin sighed "I'm sorry, Dia."
"Look, I also want to know who that assassin is and who he's working for, but now because of this little shortcut of yours we lost him." Dia said with some frustration "Next time when we see him, you-"
Suddenly, Anakin spotted the assassin's speeder and jumped out of the speeder "If you'll excuse me, Miss Zebb."
Dia, though shocked that Anakin jumped to catch up to the assassin by surprise, she rolled her eyes as she formed a little smile looking at him falling "Pff! Show off."
Anakin concentrated hard as he was in freefall, focusing on the assassin's speeder. And in a swift move, landed right on the roof of Zam's speeder!
Zam looked in shock that one of the Jedi's that followed her was now on top of her speeder. Anakin tried hard to hold on, making Zam to exhilarate to get him of her vehicle, but Anakin held on and then slipped over to the front side. Zam grabbed her blaster and attempted to shoot him, but he managed to dodge the shots and got to the left side of the speeder while still hanging on.
Dia raced after Zam's speeder, being only 150 feet after them. looking with extreme worry as Anakin tried hard to hang on.
Just as Anakin climbed over it, Zam exhilarate again, making Anakin almost to drop but hanged on the top part of Zam's cockpit, causing Zam to accidentally change into her true Clawdite form before morphing back into her human disguise.
Anakin grabbed his lightsaber and stabbed right into the glass window, which Zam responds in panic to shoot up, making Anakin lose his lightsaber. Dia managed to catch it quickly using the Force. Anakin grabbed Zam's hand, preventing her from shooting at him. Zam tried to free herself but then accidentally shot the dashboard and the controls, causing the engine to go in fire!
Dia saw that the assassin's speeder was about to crash into the Uscru Entertainment District, with Anakin holding on. She raced down fast.
Before Zam crashed on the ground, Anakin fell from the airspeeder, hitting the ground while Zam crashed her speeder against a wall!
Dia quickly landed and jumped out, running towards Anakin.
Anakin grunted while trying to stand up, while bystanders looked in shock and murmured among each other. Dia helped him up "Ani! You okay?"
Anakin nodded.
Dia handed him over his lightsaber "Here. You might need this."
"Thanks." Anakin nodded and took it.
Both then saw Zam climbing out of her crashed burning speeder, running into the crowd. Anakin and Dia raced after her, bypassing other citizens.
Meanwhile, Qui-Gon, flying in a different airspeeder, had followed Anakin's signal, spotting him and Dia down below as they ran after the seemingly assassin. He landed his speeder and climbed out of it, running to come to Anakin and Dia's aid.
Zam kept running through the crowd, heading quickly into an gambling club called 'Outlander Club'.
Anakin and Dia had seen her entering the club. But just as they were about to head in, Qui-Gon called to them "Anakin! Dia!"
Anakin and Dia stopped, with him telling his master as "The assassin went into the club, master!"
Qui-Gon however said with a calming voice "Patience, my Padawan. Use the Force. Think."
Anakin nodded, easing his mind "Right… sorry, Master." He then thought "He went in there to hide… not to run."
Qui-Gon nodded.
Dia ensured him "We'll find him, Anakin. Don't worry. That assassin has nowhere to go." She said confidently.
Anakin nodded "I know."
All three began walking inside the club. Dia whispered to him "Please, next time warn me whenever you do a stunt like that again."
"Sorry, Dia. I didn't meant to scare you."
"Well, you really did."
Qui-Gon, Dia and Anakin stopped, overlooking the club, seeing dozens of people enjoying their drinks, playing gambling games, or watch many sports on tv-screens where they bet their money on. Anakin even noticed that one screen showed a Podrace on the planet Theron, which reminded him of his last Podrace back on Tatooine ten years ago, but left that memory out of his thoughts for now as they had to find the assassin that almost had killed Padmé twice.
Dia shook her head "I don't see him anywhere."
Qui-Gon asked while glancing at the guests "Can either of you describe him?"
Anakin answered, remembering how the assassin looked like "I think he is a she," both Qui-Gon and Dia glanced at him "and I think she's a changeling. A Clawdite changeling."
Dia knew now that it won't be easy to find her.
Qui-Gon gave a simple nod "In that case, be extra careful." He then gestured both of them "You two go and find her."
"Where are you going, Master Qui-Gon?" Dia asked confused.
"For a drink." Qui-Gon said with a small grin and walked over to the bar.
Anakin ensured Dia "Don't worry, this is a kind of strategy we've used before."
Dia gave a nod in understanding and suggested "Alright. Best we split up. You take the right side, I'll take the left." Anakin gave her a nod and both headed into opposite direction to search the club.
At the bar, Qui-Gon was served a drink as he requested "Thank you." and took a sip.
A female Zabrak, being in her early 20's, having fair skin and some tattoos across her body, wearing a very sexy short black dress that showed some cleavage, asked Qui-Gon in a flirty way "Looking for a good time, sugar? I'll make your time worth every penny tonight."
Qui-Gon already understood that she was an hooker. Using his mind-trick technique, he commanded her "You don't want to offer your services to me."
The Zabrak woman was no match for Qui-Gon's mind trick and repeated what Qui-Gon said, looking uninterested and went back to her drink "I don't want to offer my services to you."
"You want to stop this kind of work and find a more honest job." Qui-Gon used another mind trick.
"I want to stop this kind of work and find a more honest job." The mind-controlled Zabrak hooker repeated and left the club, appearing to stop her job as an escort and find a better and more honest work.
Anakin and Dia meanwhile still carefully searched the crowd, looking of the female assassin.
But deep in the crowd, Zam approached Anakin from behind. She slowly took out her blaster, aiming at Anakin as he just bypassed Qui-Gon.
Zam was about to pull the trigger… but then Qui-Gon swiftly activated his green lightsaber and cuts off Zam's armed hand! "AAAAH!" Zam cried out in pain and fell on the floor!
All in the club looked in surprise and shock of what happened.
Anakin and Dia went over to Qui-Gon, who deactivated his lightsaber and took the wounded Zam, with Dia helping him.
Anakin ensured the crowd "Easy. Jedi business. Go back to your drinks."
The crowd went back to where they were busy with, not wanting to interfere into what these Jedi wanted with the now wounded assassin.
Qui-Gon and Dia dragged Zam through the backdoor, into an abandoned ally and put her down. Zam didn't resisted, as she was too weak from the wound.
"Do you know who it was you were trying to kill?" Qui-Gon asked.
Zam sighed and stated "It was a senator from Naboo."
"And who hired you?"
Zam gave a shrug, pretending she didn't know "It was just a job."
Dia narrowed her eyes at her "Listen, we don't have time for peptalk. So you better tell us now who hired you to kill Senator Amidala."
Zam stayed silent.
Anakin grabbed her by the collar "Tell us now!"
Afraid, Zam then said "It… it was a bounty hunter called-" but her words were cut short when she was hit in the throat by a dart, making her eyes go wide and gasped for air!
Anakin, Qui-Gon and Dia looked where the shot came from, seeing the shooter flying away with his jetpack.
All three looked back at Zam, who slowly morphed back into her true form, feeling her life slipping away from her quickly "Wee shahnit… slee..mo…" she then fell dead.
Dia and Anakin exchanged a shocked look. Dia felt her pulse, feeling no heartbeat "By the Force. She's dead."
Qui-Gon carefully took out the dark, examining it "A toxic dart." He then glanced back where the shooter had disappeared, feeling deep down that this 'bounty hunter' that Zam mentioned just before being killed was the one that silenced her before she could speak out his name.
-:-
The next day, at the Jedi Temple, in the Council Chamber
Anakin, Qui-Gon and Dia had informed the Jedi Council of what happened last night, stating that the true bounty hunter that was hired to kill Padmé had escaped and killed his associate to cover his tracks and she wouldn't give him away.
Hearing this, the Jedi Council knew that they had to investigate into this and find who the true killer is.
Yoda told Qui-Gon "Track down this bounty hunter, you must, Qui-Gon."
"Most importantly, find out who he's working for." Mace added.
Qui-Gon however knew they still had to protect Padmé while doing the investigation "What about Senator Amidala? She will still need protecting."
Dia nodded and added "Master Qui-Gon is right. Who knows if this bounty hunter isn't going to try and kill Senator Amidala again?"
Yoda nodded and told her and Anakin "Handle that, you and young Skywalker will."
Dia was bit surprised to hear this, same as Anakin, that they will be working together to keep protecting Padmé.
Mace Windu then told them both "Anakin, Dia, escort the senator back to her home planet of Naboo. She'll be safer there," and he advised them "And don't use registered transport. Travel as refugees."
Anakin then stated "As the leader of the opposition, it will be very difficult to get Senator Amidala to leave the capital."
Though Anakin had a point, Yoda stated firm "Until caught, this killer is, our judgment she must respect."
Anakin nodded in understanding.
Mace then told Anakin "Go to the Senate and ask Chancellor Palpatine to speak with her about this matter."
Anakin, Dia and Qui-Gon all bowed before the Councilmembers and left the Council Chamber.
-:-
Later, at Padmé apartment
After Anakin went to see Palpatine to talk with Padmé that it was better for her to go back to Naboo where she will be safe till the bounty hunter and his contractor(s) would be found, Palpatine agreed that it was for the best and gave her an executive to take an extended leave of absence, while also telling that the vote for the Military Creation Act would be postponed for the time being.
Anakin watched the holonet-news for a moment.
"After the sudden bomb attack on Senator Padmé Amidala on landing platform UT45-B yesterday, it has been confirmed that the senator was last night again the target of another failed assassination attempt. As the investigation is still continuing to find out who was truly behind these series of sudden attacks on the Naboo politician, who has campaigned for over a year against the creation of an army for the Republic, Chancellor Palpatine has announced that the vote in the Senate would be postponed indefinitely, frustrating many in the Senate as the Separatist-crisis is in no sight of coming to a peaceful ending and tensions rise at the borders between the Republic and the newly established Confederation of Independent Systems."
Anakin sighed and turned off the Holonet-device, glancing at Padmé who was having a talk with Jar Jar.
"I'm taking an extended leave of absence," Padmé told Jar Jar "It will be your responsibility to take my place in the Senate. Representative Binks, I know I can count on you."
Jar Jar nodded, saying humbly "Mesa honored to be taking on dissa heavy burden. Mesa accept this, with muy, muy humility and, uh-"
"Jar Jar," Padmé interrupted him by raising her hand "I don't wish to hold you up. I'm sure you have a great deal to do."
Jar Jar nodded in understanding "Of course. Milady." He bowed before he left the apartment.
Padmé then walked into her bedroom, looking at Anakin with a displeased look "I do not like this idea of hiding." She went to her closet to pack in some clothes in some suitcases.
Anakin ensured her "Don't worry. Now that the Council has ordered an investigation, it won't take Master Qui-Gon long to find this bounty hunter."
Despite that Anakin was right and all would be fine in the end, Padmé was still frustrated that she was ordered to go and hide somewhere while she's feels to stay at the capital to keep on fighting against creating an army for the Republic "I haven't worked for a year to defeat the Military Creation Act to not be here when its fate is decided."
Anakin shrugged and said "Sometimes we must let go of our pride and do what is requested of us."
Hearing that from him, impressed Padmé "Anakin, you've grown up." She formed a little smile to him while taking more clothes out of her closet.
"Thanks, that's… kind of you to say, Padmé." Anakin stated. And while he playfully made a ball float using the Force, he told her "Qui-Gon is a great mentor. As wise as Master Yoda… and as powerful as Master Windu. And all that I know, I have him to thank for being the Jedi that I am now, all the wisdom he'd passed on to me and supported me through thick and thin." he smiled as he puts the ball down and glanced back at Padmé "I am truly grateful to be his apprentice." But then he shrugged, saying what was on his mind "But, in some ways- a lot of ways- I'm really ahead of him. I'm ready for the trials. Even Master Qui-Gon is convinced that I'm ready for it too," but then he sighed and frowned "but most of the Jedi Council disagrees, that they feel that I am too unpredictable, not following the sacred and hollowed traditions of the Jedi. But most of the time… I feel that the problem is with what the Council stands for now, which is… not what the Jedi should be following at all! They just won't open their eyes and move with the times as the rest of the galaxy."
Padmé could see how the life of a Jedi wasn't suiting Anakin "That must be frustrating."
"It's worse," Anakin said with a bit rising anger "We're supposed to be the defenders of the galaxy, protecting the people and not what only a handful of blind and corrupt senators expect of us to do! It's not fair!" he cleared his throat and apologized to Padmé as he didn't meant to offend her as he spoke ill of some senators that were accused of being corrupt "I'm sorry, Padmé. No offense."
Padmé shook her head in understanding "None taken," she stated as she packed more clothes "I understand that traditions are indeed holding us back from doing what is right. Many people have been living in the same kind of system for so long that they just… don't know anything else and will take more time than we intended to make them see differently. All it needs is some patience and find a way to understand the other side of the story. It's the only way to make a true difference."
Anakin sighed and sat on the bed "I know."
Padmé then walked up to him, putting her hand on his shoulder and softly rubbed it "Anakin. Don't try to grow up too fast."
Anakin raised an eyebrow at her as he stood up, teasing her a bit "Do you prefer the 'little boy you met on Tatooine', then?" he shrugged "Sorry to disappoint you, senator, but every kid eventually grows up, even though we don't want that to happen too fast. It's only natural."
Padmé formed a smile, trying to hide a blush as Anakin had changed so much… and was indeed a bit more mature than the little boy she knew "Well… maybe I do like the new you."
Anakin formed a smile at her "Glad to hear that, milady."
Padmé felt the urge to just… stand a bit closer to Anakin.
But before she got the chance, Dia entered the apartment. Anakin saw her, wearing a normal Coruscant dress, making him to walk over to her, much to Padmé's disappointment.
"Dia, you certainly look… different." Anakin told her while forming a grin at her.
Dia blushed because of his flattery, but then told her as she took a bag and handed it over to him "Well, if we're supposed to look like refugees heading to Naboo, better to dress the part, right?"
Anakin took the bag "I suppose," he then went into another room to get changed "Thanks. I'll be right back."
Dia smiled at Anakin, watching him leaving for another room. She then glanced at Padmé, asking "You need any help with packing, Senator?"
"Uhm…" Padmé was lost for words, as she was confused as Anakin clearly had more eyes for the Twi'Lek Jedi Knight then her, but said with a bit of forcing smile "Yes. I… could use a bit of help."
Dia went to her room, helping her packing.
Padmé was feeling a bit frustration in her mind, remembering that she was almost 'flirting' with Anakin 'What the hell was I doing?! Trying to flirt with him!? He's training to be a Jedi and I… I'm a senator,' but the feeling of being again with Anakin, seeing how much he's changed and how more mature he is, seeing that the little boy she met on Tatooine had indeed grown up into a fine and handsome young man, made her feel warm inside, making her blush 'Well… maybe… we could become a bit more… closer than we were before. (Sigh) Oh, Ani… what are you doing with me?' she mentally asked herself while forming a little smile.
Dia didn't saw Padmé's dreamy face, but could sense that she was thinking of Anakin, making her a bit confused and angry that Padmé had hots for him. But she dismissed it as it was probably just because Padmé hadn't seen Anakin for over ten years and still had to get used to how he'd changed both mentally and physically. So, for now, she would remain professional and try to be kind to Padmé as she too is a good friend of Anakin.
-:-
Sometime later, at the nearest spaceport
When the transportation ship landed at the spaceport, with Padmé, Anakin, Dia and Qui-Gon inside, and even Obi-Wan, who had offered to help his old master with the investigation, Captain Typho told Padmé "Be safe, Milady."
"Thank you, captain." Padmé said with a smile "Take good care of Dormé. The threat's on you two now."
"He'll be safe with me." Dormé said with the same tone before her face turned to worry and a tear fell from her eye.
Padmé saw this and assured her dear friend and handmaiden "I'll be fine."
"It's not me, milady. What if they realize that you've left the capital?"
Padmé ensured her "Well, then my Jedi protectors will teach them a thing or two."
Anakin and Dia smiled at the senator for having such faith in them, before Qui-Gon spoke to them "Anakin. Dia, do be careful. Remember to keep me and Obi-Wan informed if something happens on Naboo. And if anything changes at all with the investigation, trust in the Force to do what you two believe is right."
Anakin smiled at his master "We will, Master, you have my word."
Dia then told Obi-Wan "I hope you enjoy going on a mission with Qui-Gon after so long, Master Kenobi. It'll probably feel like old times again, huh?"
Obi-Wan smiled at that "It definitely will, Dia. But, if there's a chance we need help, we'll contact you and Anakin on Naboo."
"Hopefully that won't happen, Master Kenobi. But you better look after Master Qui-Gon. You know, he's…" Anakin said with a smile.
Obi-Wan gave him a nod "I know. He's special to all of us." And both shook hands.
Qui-Gon then spoke to Padmé while Anakin and Dia collected the bags "Obi-Wan and I will solve this plot as quickly as possible, milady. If the Force wills it, you'll be back here in no time."
Obi-Wan then added "We'll inform immediately after the investigation is done with, that you may return to Coruscant safely."
Padmé smiled at her two old friends "I have great faith in you both and greater confidence in your speed, master Jedi."
"Milady, it's time to go."Dia said politely."
"Of course." Padmé said before she and the two Jedi walked out of the transportation ship with their suitcases in hand, with R2-D2 following them."
"Anakin. Dia, may the Force be with you." Qui-Gon told them.
"May the Force be with both you and Master Obi-Wan, Master Qui-Gon." Anakin said back with a smile.
As they began walking to one of the AA-9 Coruscant freighters for refugees, Padmé admitted "Suddenly I'm afraid."
"This is my first assignment on my own, I'm a little afraid too." Anakin admitted himself.
"Don't worry, I'll protect you both." Dia said with humor "And we've also got R2 with us as extra backup." She said, making both Anakin and Padmé laugh.
Qui-Gon smiled at his Padawan with faith, including Dia "They'll be fine. I know they will."
"I have complete faith in them too, my old master." Obi-Wan said, as if he was still Qui-Gon's Padawan "Like you always told me: Trust in the Force."
Captain Typho nodded, sharing his faith in the two Jedi as well, but admitted "Though I have faith in them too, I'm a bit concerned that the senator might be doing something foolish."
Qui-Gon ensured him "If that does happen, my Padawan and Dia know what to do, captain."
A couple of minutes later, the AA-9 Coruscant freighter with many refugees on board, including Anakin, Dia and Padmé, took off, heading towards Naboo.
A/N: That's it for this chapter, just in time before Star Wars Day on May the 4th!
First off, I want to thank my dear friend Wolvehulk for helping me with several ideas for this chapter, including for him helping me during my last chapter. Sorry that I didn't mention that in the A/N then.
So, with Attack of the Clones having now officially started, who knows what more will be different with Dia joining Anakin to protect Padmé on Naboo, as both their romantic feelings are slowly blossoming back while Padmé too has her eyes on Anakin?
I plan for the next chapter to mainly focus on Anakin, Dia and Padmé during their stay on Naboo. I'll be also adding a couple of extra things. I will not spoil what these ideas are, but what I do will share is that instead that all these things happen in mere a few days as in the movie, that it'll be like 1 or 2 weeks, which is plenty of time for things to 'blossoming' if you know what I mean ;)
Then the chapter afterwards will focus on Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan with their investigation into the mysterious bounty hunter, Jango Fett, which eventually will lead them to Kamino…
Thank you all for reading this chapter. Don't forget to like and review.
And as always, May the Force be with you… or in this case for posting the chapter on this specific date… May the 4th be with you ;)