In the lavish halls of Theed palace, Princess Padmé Amidala Naberrie stood with her arms crossed, staring at the strange, sandy-haired boy standing across from her. He wore an elegant, ceremonial, red tunic – though there were still patches of dust on his boots and cloak. She looked him up and down with a sceptical eye – hardly polite but she couldn't help herself. She met important dignitaries and Senators nearly every day, nobody ever showed up with messy clothes and shoes.
Anakin Skywalker, Prince of Tatooine, met her stare with an equally unimpressed look, his bright blue eyes narrowing. He, too, had crossed his arms and the scowl on his face was nothing short of defiant. Padmé guessed this was not how he wanted to spend his day. Well, at least they seemed to have something in common after all – she could think of a thousand places she'd rather be right now than standing here with him.
Behind them, Queen Shmi of Tatooine, a kind, graceful woman, and Padmé's mother, Queen Jobal of Naboo exchanged amused glances as if their children's discomfort was funny for them. She felt her glower deepen as their mothers shared a knowing smile, as if they knew something she and Anakin didn't. Of everyone in the galaxy, every system, every planet and moon, her parents couldn't have found someone else? Anyone else?
"So you're supposed to be my… what? Future husband?" Padmé finally rolled her eyes. This was the best her mother and father thought she could do? Some strange little boy covered in sand? How was it possible?
"That's what she said," Anakin replied, nodding toward his mother, his voice laced with equal parts disbelief and frustration. "But I don't know why she thought I'd ever want to marry you."
Padmé felt her face redden as a guard close by coughed and cleared his throat, a poor attempt at concealing his laughter. "Excuse me?" She glared, chin jutting out defiantly. Who did this boy think he was? He was lucky her parents picked him for her! Naboo was a wealthy, powerful core world – what did this Tatooine have to offer? "I don't see why I'd ever want to marry you, either. You look like you've been rolling around in a sand dune all day!"
Anakin shrugged, unbothered. "Sand dunes are fun. Not that you'd know anything about that, Princess."
Padmé shot him another icy glare. "I happen to like clean places to enjoy myself, thank you very much. Some of us prefer gardens to… piles of dirt!"
Anakin rolled his eyes and muttered under his breath, "Core-world people… so spoiled."
The two Queens stifled their laughter, turning away for a moment to exchange whispers Padmé's straining ears couldn't pick up. What were they plotting now? Surely they could see this was never going to work? After a moment, her mother leaned toward Queen Shmi, her smile widening. "They're just perfect for each other, aren't they?"
Padmé blinked. Had they lost their minds? Perfect for each other? She would rather marry a wookie than this rude boy!
Whatever delusion her mother was suffering, the Tatooine Queen seemed to have caught too. "I'm sure they'll outgrow this in a few years. It's only a matter of time before they see past their differences."
"Oh, I'm certain of it," Jobal replied, covering her mouth to hide another smile as Padmé and Anakin continued their glaring standoff. "I'll tell my husband, Ruwee to sign the marriage contract when he gets out of his meeting. The three of us can celebrate our children's futures this evening!"
Anakin huffed, shoving his hands into his pockets and muttered. "I'd rather be riding a podracer than standing here listening to this poodo."
"Anakin Skywalker!" Queen Shimi whirled around and Padmé sniggered as the boy winced, shuffling back a half-step. "I did not raise you to use such language! Apologise, this very instant!"
"Sorry," he spat, but his glare promised his feelings were far from remorseful.
"Outer-Rim people," Padmé rolled her eyes, "So uncivilised…"
"Why don't we leave them to… get to know each other?" Jobal suggested with a twinkle in her eye and Shmi agreed, giving her son a warning glance before the two Queens swept away, leaving Anakin and Padmé alone.
Anakin scuffed the floor with his sandy boot, glancing at Padmé from the corner of his eye. "So… what do you do around here for fun, anyway?"
Padmé wished she'd thought to switch places with Sabe this morning before their guests arrived. She could be lost in the palace archives or out enjoying the sun in Theed – anywhere but here. Their own parents struggled to tell them apart sometimes, no one would ever know she was miles away instead of talking to this stranger. "Well… we have gardens. And lakes. The opera, art exhibits... Real fun things," she replied, emphasizing the last part as if daring him to scoff. There was no way someone like this boy would enjoy art and refined things like she did. Did Tatooine even have an opera house?
He did scoff but only a little. "Lakes, huh? We have ocean-size sand dunes on Tatooine."
Was that supposed to impress her? "Well, I'd like to see you try swimming in sand – it would get everywhere for starters." Padmé shot back, crossing her arms again. How long were they supposed to talk to each other before their mothers let them leave?
Outside the throne room, two Queens exchanged a shared smile.
This was only the beginning.
Two years later.
Anakin and his best friend, Kitster, howled with laughter, sitting comfortably in the cockpit of Anakin's gleaming new cruiser, hovering just high enough above the sandy ground to keep a safe distance from Padmé, who stood below with her hands on her hips, her brow furrowed in frustration. He bet this was the first time she ever didn't get what she wanted. That just made her annoyance even more funny.
"Come on, Anakin!" The Naboo Princess called, jumping up and down, trying to reach the edge. Her manicured fingers were just shy of managing, so he manoeuvred the engines to raise a few inches higher. Kitster's laughter only seemed to annoy her even more. "Let me in!"
Anakin grinned down at her, shaking his head. "Sorry, Princess! No girls allowed in this cruiser!"
Kitster leaned over, joining in with a mischievous smirk. "Yeah, no girls allowed!"
Padmé's eyes narrowed, her lips pressed into a firm line as she glared up at them. "That's not fair!"
Anakin shrugged, his grin widening. "Rules are rules, Padmé. Guess you'll just have to stay down there." Switching on the air cooling unit, the Prince leaned back, hands behind his head and sighed dramatically. "Such a shame you're stuck down there in the heat! It's soo nice and cool up here."
She glared at them for a long moment and then a small, devious smile crept across her face. Good, maybe she was going to go find someone else to annoy all afternoon. "Fine," Padmé shrugged, "If that's how you want to play it."
Before either boy could react, Padmé picked up a loose stone, eyeing the cruiser's exposed engine. She aimed carefully then with a flick of her wrist, launched the stone straight into the engine's vent. A sharp clank creaked out, followed by a sputtering noise. The cruiser stuttered mid-air, jerking back and forth and Anakin's eyes went wide.
"Oh no, no, no – " he muttered, his hands scrambling over the controls as he tried to stabilize it but it was too late. The engine gave a final splutter and died on him, causing the cruiser to drop from the air, landing in the sand with a thud. Anakin groaned as his head smacked off the transparasteel window – that hurt!
Both boys sat in stunned silence for a moment, covered in a light dusting of sand before exchanging a look of disbelief. Kitster wiped a hand across his face, brushing off sand, and scowled.
"Really?" he grumbled, climbing out of the cruiser and dusting himself off.
Anakin followed, muttering every Huttese curse his mother would kill him for knowing. "Did you have to throw something in the engine?" It had taken weeks to get it up and running from the rusty junk pile he'd pulled it from! You didn't see him smashing a window when she wouldn't let him in her room last year!
Padmé crossed her arms, a smug smile on her face as she assessed the smoking engine. "Well, maybe next time, you'll think twice before saying no girls allowed."
Kitster groaned, still brushing sand from his clothes, while Anakin fixed her with an exasperated look. "You know I'll have to fix this now, right?"
Padmé shrugged, unfazed. "Then maybe you'll learn not to leave me out of things." With that, she spun on her heel, her long braid smacking into Anakin's face as she left both boys standing in the sand, thoroughly annoyed. He watched her go, shaking his head – she was crazy! Who did things like that? "Girls are the worst," he muttered, "We're gonna have to go to the scrapyard for parts now…"
Five years later.
Somehow, Padmé and Anakin's bickering hadn't dulled in the slightest as they spent more and more time together. Now both fifteen, they were tall, confident, and decidedly not getting along any better than when they'd been children. Padmé was perfectly fine with that, their mothers could force them to spend all the time in the galaxy together, but that didn't mean she had to like Skywalker. There was no way they were ever getting married, she didn't care what the treaty said. There were other, more wealthy and powerful worlds she could befriend. And without marrying someone, thank you very much.
Tatooine's palace halls were as foreign and arid as Padmé remembered but she carried herself with all the poise and elegance befitting the Princess of Naboo. Now that Sola had fallen in love with a non-royal man and married him, she was going to be Queen one day. That meant a lot more responsibility. She had changed and grown up, but Anakin still hadn't shed his rough edges, though his confidence certainly had grown since she saw him four months ago, along with his apparent annoyance with Padmé's every word.
As they walked down a grand stone staircase together, Padmé's eyes gleamed with mischief, spotting the perfect opportunity to take a little revenge for the last snide comment Anakin had made about her "soft, palace upbringing." It wasn't her fault his planet was harsh and temperamental – and so uncomfortably hot.
"Oh, be careful," she said sweetly, edging a step closer, "you wouldn't want to trip."
Without missing a beat, Padmé discreetly nudged her foot out, catching Anakin's ankle. The effect was instantaneous – the Tatooine Prince stumbled forward, his eyes widening as he lost his balance and tumbled down the stairs, landing in a heap with a dull thud at the bottom. His red cloak flung over his head and shoulders and he struggled to free himself from beneath it.
Padmé clamped her hand over her mouth, stifling a laugh but failing miserably to fully hide her amusement.
"Real mature, Your Highness," he muttered, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment as he clambered to his feet. But her laughter only grew louder, echoing off the high walls around them. She would pay a fortune in credits to own a copy of the security footage from the cam above their heads… Maybe she could convince a guard to fetch it for her?
"Oh, come on, Anakin. I thought you were training to be proficient in combat," Padmé teased, feigning innocence. "Shouldn't a little tumble be nothing to you?"
Anakin narrowed his eyes, refusing to let her have the last word. She watched his eyes slide to a decorative bowl on a nearby table, filled with polished stones that reflected Tatooine's blazing sunlight. Without thinking twice, or allowing her to flee, he grabbed one and launched it with pinpoint accuracy, grinning as it hit Padmé square between the eyes.
"Anakin Skywalker!" She gasped indignantly, rubbing her face. Her eyes flashed with anger. What kind of a boy hit a girl? Especially with a stone! "You are such a child!"
"Oh, I'm the child?" he shot back, folding his arms, his face a mask of irritated defiance. "Last time I checked, I didn't need to trip people to get attention."
Padmé's eyes narrowed and she marched toward the bowl, grabbing one of the polished stones, her grip tightening around it. "The last thing I want is your attention!" She hissed, aiming. Anakin took a wary step back, as though preparing to dodge as if he could possibly be faster than she was – please. But before she could hurl it at him, an all too familiar voice cut through the air.
"That is enough, both of you!"
Her mother and Queen Shmi approached them, each glaring at their child, exasperated. They exchanged knowing glances, as though this was more amusing than concerning. How either of them still found any of this funny was beyond her. Padmé was tired of Anakin's antics the day they met – he was a rude, petulant, immature nerf-herder!
"You two are still at each other's throats, I see," Jobal sighed, shaking her head as she crossed her arms. "You are both far too old for this sort of behaviour."
"Well, they're still children," Shmi added, chuckling softly. "Give them time. I'm sure they'll grow out of this eventually."
Padmé's face flushed with embarrassment and she glanced down, trying to avoid her mother's gaze. She was not a child! She was the future Queen of Naboo, didn't that mean something to anyone here? Despite that, she could not help but whine, glaring in Anakin's direction. "He started it!"
"What?" He cried as if the space between her eyebrows wasn't throbbing from his attack. "You tripped me!"
"After you made stupid comments!" She hissed. "And you hit me in the face with those stones!"
"Oh, I'm sure he did," Jobal nodded, though the infuriating smirk on her face made it clear she didn't believe a word Padmé was saying. Oh, she just wanted to scream! If they'd only gotten here five minutes ago, they'd see he was an idiot and deserved a good tripping! "But perhaps a Princess, a future Queen, could rise above, don't you think?"
Anakin snorted, until his mother gave him a pointed look. "And perhaps a Prince could find a way to settle differences without hurling stones at his future bride," Shmi added, raising an eyebrow.
Anakin shifted uncomfortably, avoiding Padmé's gaze. "It was just a joke," he muttered, looking uncharacteristically chastened.
"Of course it was," Jobal said with a laugh. She looped an arm around Padmé, gently steering her away. "Come along, dear. Let's give these childish rivalries a rest for today, shall we? Your father will be expecting to hear how well you two are getting on."
Shmi did the same, placing a calming hand on Anakin's shoulder. "Remember, Anakin, sometimes a little patience goes a long way. And besides…" She glanced at Jobal, her eyes twinkling. "I'm sure one day you'll see that Padmé's company is not so terrible."
Neither Padmé nor Anakin looked very convinced.
The Queens of Tatooine and Naboo sat together on a shaded terrace overlooking the palace gardens, the soft breeze of Tatooine offering a rare respite from the brutal desert heat. A lavish spread of fruits, delicate pastries and spiced teas lay before them, and their conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter and stories from court and family life.
Jobal poured herself a cup of tea and then glanced at Shmi with a glimmer of mischief in her shining in her dark eyes. "You know, a little wine would go very nicely with this, don't you think?"
Shmi chuckled, shaking her head. "With Anakin and Padmé under the same roof? I think we'd best keep our wits about us." She took a sip of tea, though the hint of a smile played on her lips. Wherever those two went, trouble was never far behind. She'd had to double the number of guards around the palace for this visit just to be sure those two didn't murder each other when no one else was around. The joys of teenage angst!
Jobal sighed, settling back in her chair more comfortably. "Oh, they're not so bad, are they?. They're teenagers, all this fighting and petulant dislike is just part of growing up. You should have seen how Padmé and my eldest, Sola, would fight. Trust me, once they're older, I know they're going to laugh about this."
Shmi's brows lifted, unconvinced. "If they survive each other, that is."
No sooner had she spoken than a commotion sounded from inside. Raised voices grew louder, mingled with the sounds of scuffling feet. Both Queens shared a knowing grimace, sighing exasperatedly. There was usually only one reason for sounds like those…
"Get off me, Skywalker!" Padmé's voice rang out, indignant and furious. Jobal nodded to herself… Of course… They had made it four hours without an argument today, their longest record yet, if she was correct.
"You started it, Amidala!" Anakin shot back and then there was a loud thud, followed by more furious shouts.
With another collective sigh, the Queens rose from the comfort of their seats and followed the noise inside. They entered the throne room just in time to see a sight that might have been comical if it weren't so chaotic.
Anakin and Padmé were locked in a furious tussle on the floor, limbs tangled as they rolled, each trying to pin the other down. A pair of guards had already arrived, attempting to pull the two apart, but neither royal teenager seemed particularly inclined to back down.
"Unbelievable…" Shmi muttered under her breath and Jobal stifled a laugh, though she quickly composed herself as two more guards joined the fray.
It took all four guards to finally pry the pair apart, each of them red-faced and breathing heavily, their hair in wild disarray and their clothes askew. Anakin had a scratch on his cheek and Padmé's dress bore a tear along the sleeve, but they both wore the fierce, determined expressions of rivals who refused to concede.
As the guards released them, each teen glared at the other, still brimming with unspent energy.
Jobal raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms. "Honestly, you two. Must you act like savages every time you're together?"
Anakin scowled. "I wasn't doing anything until she threw my datapad across the room."
Padmé scoffed, smoothing her hair with indignant precision. "Because you wouldn't stop bragging about how Tatooine is more powerful than Naboo."
Shmi shook her head, exhausted. Were such small issues always going to cause such chaos between the two of them? How were they supposed to hope for a peaceful union between their worlds at this rate? "Anakin, Padmé, you're both… impossible." A wry smile tugged at her lips, despite her frustration, as she turned to Jobal. "That wine sounds wonderful right now."
Jobal chuckled, nodding in agreement. "Yes. Something tells me we'll be needing more than one bottle."
"Each!" Shmi clicked her tongue.
As the two Queens turned to retreat to the peace of the terrace, Anakin and Padmé were left standing side by side, thoroughly chastised.
"Nice scratch, by the way," Padmé muttered, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Just when I didn't think you could get any uglier."
Anakin rolled his eyes, but a reluctant smirk played on his face. "You've got dirt on your face, Princess."
Without missing a beat, Padmé reached up, flicking a bit of dust from her cheek with all the grace of a born noble.
When the guards weren't looking, she kicked him.
Three years later.
In her rooms, Padmé paced back and forth, her expression stormy as she protested yet again, her voice edged with frustration. "Mom, please. I don't want to go to Tatooine. It's so… sandy and there's nothing to do there! Why can't I just stay here? We don't like each other – it's pointless."
Jobal watched her daughter's pacing with a knowing smile. "Padmé, we must visit Tatooine to see your future husband and mother-in-law. It's important to spend time with them. Queen Shmi and Prince Anakin made the journey here last time, it's only right we make the same effort." She cast a glance at Sola, who was stifling a giggle behind her hand.
"But Mom," Padmé insisted, her cheeks flushing as she tried to mask the real reason for her resistance. "I… I have friends here! Important friends. Like Sabe! And Dorme, Teckla and …and…" She paused, glancing away as she added in a softer tone, "There's Palo. He's… very mature. He understands me." She said the last part with emphasis, as if hoping to sway Jobal's opinion.
"Oh?" The Queen's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Is this the same Palo who paints in the royal gardens? The one with the 'dreamy eyes,' if I recall correctly?"
Padmé's blush deepened. "Yes, him. Unlike Anakin, he actually acts his age. We get along so well! He understands art and poetry, and he's… well, he's very thoughtful."
At that, Sola couldn't help but giggle, exchanging a knowing look with Jobal. With the maturity of married women, they both understood exactly what was going on here – Padmé's fleeting crush on a boy she thought represented all the maturity and refinement that Anakin, in her eyes, lacked. Oh, the cuteness of it made her heart ache. To be so young and naïve again…
Jobal smiled warmly, resisting the urge to laugh outright unlike her eldest child. This was a delicate matter, after all. "That's very sweet, Padmé. But I think your fiancé would be rather disappointed if you didn't show up to see him."
Her daughter huffed, crossing her arms. "Anakin wouldn't even care if I didn't go! All he cares about is showing off his piloting skills and going on about podracing. He's… he's completely unbearable sometimes."
Sola stepped forward, barely containing her amusement. "Oh, come on, Padmé. I'm sure secretly you're just dying to see him again. Besides, who else will be there to keep him humble?"
Padmé rolled her eyes dramatically, letting out an exasperated sigh. "Fine, I'll go! But only because you're forcing me," she said, shooting her mother and sister a glare before storming off toward her wardrobe. "And don't expect me to be happy about it!"
As she disappeared into her dressing room, Jobal and Sola shared another laugh, shaking their heads in affectionate amusement.
"She'll come around," Sola whispered, grinning.
"Oh, I know she will," Jobal replied with a smile. "We just have to give her time. For now, I'm going to enjoy watching her pretend she'd rather stay here with some pretty artist than face the truth about how much she likes that boy."
Two years later.
The gala was alive with music and laughter, the dazzling lights reflecting off glittering gowns and formal attire as diplomats, senators, and royalty mingled. Padmé seemed to be the centre of attention, engaging the focus of several other men their age, much to Anakin's chagrin. He couldn't believe she'd come here tonight wearing… that. A muscle feathered in his jaw. Anakin could barely tear his eyes away from Padmé as Senator Organa spun her around the dancefloor. Her dress, a deep, midnight blue, hugged her frame both gracefully and captivatingly. It was infuriating.
But it was the open back that truly held him entranced, the way it revealed the smooth line of her shoulders and the delicate curve of her spine, accented by silver chains that glinted softly against her skin. For a moment, she glanced his way, her dark eyes meeting his, and a faint, knowing smile played on her lips. Anakin swallowed, hating that she caught him looking. Great. He couldn't wait to hear how she'd use this to tease him now.
Maybe he'd tell her she had something stuck in her teeth. That would show her.
Beside him, his mother noticed his scowl and chuckled softly. "Why don't you ask her for the next dance, my dear?"
Anakin felt his face flush and he shook his head quickly. "I'd rather cut off my own arm," he muttered, keeping his gaze firmly fixed on Padmé and the Senator of Alderaan – wasn't he married? Why was he dancing with Padmé anyway?
Shmi laughed again, sipping delicately at her wine. "If you say so..." But when the music began to wind down, she gave him an insistent shove forward, surprising Anakin with her hidden strength.
Caught off guard, he stumbled onto the dancefloor just as the song ended, and Padmé, thanking her partner with a smile, turned and caught his eye. She raised an eyebrow, surprised to see him standing there, and Anakin glared over his shoulder at his mother before giving her a tight smile. Why did she love to watch him suffer like this? Weren't mothers supposed to be loving? Nurturing?
"Care to dance?" He managed, his voice laced with a hint of reluctance, though his heart was racing. He just hadn't danced with someone so publicly before, that was all. And it would be just like Padmé to send him stumbling into the nearest serving-droid just to embarrass him. Anakin exhaled sharply. He couldn't even trip her first without being accused of being the bad guy.
Padmé tilted her head, a hint of amusement lighting up in her eyes as she dragged her gaze up his body, judging the dark jacket and pants he wore, probably. He was fancy enough to fit in, but not nearly as elegantly attired as most of the guests here tonight. Especially not compared to her many admirers in the crowd. He couldn't wait to hear whatever sharp comments she had in store for him…
"I didn't know you even knew how to dance," she slid her hand into his.
"Very funny," he rolled his eyes, leading her to the centre of the dance floor. At least here it would be a little more difficult for their meddling parents to watch their every move.
They started a bit stiffly, both of them all too aware of the eyes on them, but as they settled into the rhythm, the tension began to ease. Padmé smirked, breaking the silence. "Remember when you wouldn't let me into your cruiser on Tatooine? 'No girls allowed,' I think you said. I'd love to see what that little boy would have to say about this…"
Anakin chuckled, shaking his head. "Oh, I remember alright. It took me three months to get that cruiser up and running again, by the way."
Padmé laughed, looking away as though hiding her pride to spare him. "You had it coming. And you never did learn your lesson about being nice to me."
"You were the one always causing trouble. Like the time you tripped me on the stairs. I'm still convinced I have a scar somewhere," he replied with a grin, growing more comfortable as they continued to dance.
"Oh, please," Padmé rolled her eyes, biting back a smile as Anakin spun her beneath his arm. "Remember the time you and your friend poured glue into my shampoo? My mother was convinced they were going to have to shave my head!"
"I think my mother was fully prepared to cut mine off in retaliation if it makes you feel any better," Anakin groaned.
They shared a quiet laugh, both of them remembering the countless squabbles and ridiculous battles of their childhood, though this time there was something warmer beneath the banter. Sometimes he felt like they'd been fighting one way or another their whole lives. She infuriated him beyond words – beyond understanding, but damn would his childhood have been a boring one without her interference.
"Maybe our moms are right, we've finally grown up and learned to behave around each other," he conceded, looking down at her with a hint of fondness in his eyes. He hadn't seen her in almost a year. She was getting ready to become Queen one day soon, fighting with him was the last thing on her mind now. "But I guess I've… missed you. And your attitude. It keeps things interesting."
Padmé's teasing expression softened and for a brief moment, her gaze held his. "I missed you too," she said softly, her hand resting a little more comfortably on his shoulder as they swayed in time to the music. "And your immaturity. It's nice to know some things truly never change."
Shmi, watching from the sidelines, exchanged an amused glance with Jobal, the two mothers beaming as their children, so long at odds, began to laugh together in the centre of the ballroom.
Anakin strode into the living room of his mother's wing of the palace, as he did every morning, greeting her with a casual smile and a gentle kiss on the cheek. But today, something was different… No, something was wrong. Shmi's face was drawn and pale. She hadn't touched her tea and her shaking hands were tightly clasping a datapad. What the hell could have happened since he saw her last night?
"Mom?" he asked, frowning, "What's wrong?"
Shmi looked up at him, her expression troubled. She took a deep breath, her voice barely above a whisper. "Naboo is under attack. The Trade Federation has invaded and set up a blockade."
Anakin's stomach dropped, his mind reeling as he processed the news. "What?" He shook his head. "But… that's…" A shaking breath tumbled from between his lips, "What's the Senate doing about it?" There had to be military aid already on the way to drag that scum out of the peaceful planet before they caused too much damage!
Shmi's dropped the datapad on the table and she looked away, her jaw tense. "Nothing. They've been debating for hours, but no one is willing to step forward to help. Naboo has been left on its own. They're going to have to concede to the Trade Federation's demands or fight their way out of it."
An ice-cold chill raced through Anakin and he gripped the edge of the table. Padmé was alone and vulnerable on her besieged planet and those idiots in the Senate weren't going to help? What was the point of them if they wouldn't stand up and offer aid? He clenched his fists as he wrestled with a whirlwind of emotions battering into his mind at once. Every moment that passed by felt like a sting on his skin.
The thought of his fiancé, the greatest annoyance of his life, his childhood friend and future Queen stranded on her planet, vulnerable to the Trade Federation's whims made his stomach twist. They wouldn't hesitate to capture her if they hadn't already. They'd want her, as the planet's heir. His teeth clenched. Holding Naboo's future Queen in their control was a powerful symbol. Anakin knew they'd use her, exploit her and bend her to their will – she cared so much about her family and her people. Padmé would do anything to keep them safe.
The Senate's inaction only stoked his rage further. They were sitting there, debating and bickering over diplomatic procedures and legalities meanwhile Naboo was falling! Anakin's blood boiled. What good were they, tucked away in their every comfort, so far removed from the people who needed they were supposed to protect?
"They're just going to stand by and watch her suffer? All of them, I mean," he stumbled over his words, "Naboo and the Naberries…"
He took a deep, steadying breath and forced himself to calm down. To try and think clearly. But as he tried, more and more fear clawed at him, screaming in his ears, whispering dark and terrible things. If anything happened to Padmé, if he lost her before they had a chance to build the future they were meant to have…
No. He wasn't going to let that happen!
"I'm going there. To Naboo," he declared firmly, his voice like steel. "I'll take a battalion of our soldiers. We have resources—"
But Shmi's hand shot out, grabbing his arm before he could march away to prepare. "Absolutely not, Anakin! If you defy the Senate, you could face charges of treason. Not to mention the danger of facing the Trade Federation without their support!"
"Padmé is there!" His voice cracked, the desperation and worry seeping through beyond his control. "I can't just sit here and do nothing! She—she could be in danger. I can't let this happen."
Shmi's dark eyes softened, her grip on his arm loosening, though her face was still laced with worry that kept him rooted to the spot. "I know, my dear. I know you care about her deeply. I do too. Padmé has become a daughter to me, but this is dangerous – too dangerous." She sighed. "Anakin, I understand your heart, but you must be careful. If you act without permission… you could lose everything."
Anakin clenched his jaw, frustration raging inside him. If the Senate dared try and punish him for doing what they failed to… "So, what? I just sit here while Padmé and her people suffer? Is that what you want? Is that the man you've raised me to be?"
Shmi's face twisted with sympathy and regret. "Sometimes, as rulers, we must make painful sacrifices. I understand you wish to rescue Padmé and keep her safe, but going to Naboo without authorization could lead to a disaster, for you, for Naboo and for Tatooine." Her voice softened. "Trust that Padmé will find her way. She's clever and strong, Anakin. And if there's a way, she'll survive this."
He looked down, swallowing hard. "It just doesn't feel right."
Shmi pulled him into a comforting embrace, holding him close. "I know, my son," she whispered, sadness threading her voice. "But sometimes, not acting is the hardest choice we can make, even if it is the right thing to do."
Anakin sat in silence for a few moments, his mother's words echoing in his mind. But the thought of Padmé facing an invasion without any support filled him with a fury and resolve he couldn't ignore. Damn the Senate. Damn their inaction. He wasn't going to let her suffer, not while he had the power to do something about it.
Anakin stood straight, his jaw set in determination. "I'm sorry, mom… But I have to go. I can't sit here while Padmé's in danger. She means too much to me."
Shmi's face tightened with worry, but she knew him enough to not dissuade him further. She sighed, her expression heavy. "Anakin, you are risking everything by doing this. The Senate will not look kindly on it."
"Let them be angry," he replied, his voice firm. "This is Naboo we're talking about, Padmé's home, my future home. She's not just some stranger. She's the woman I'm going to marry." He hesitated for a moment, his face softening as he looked at her. "I love her, mom. I can't just abandon her."
Her eyes glistened, pride mingling with fear. "If you must go, Anakin, promise me you'll be careful. And… take people you trust."
He nodded, leaning down to give her a quick, reassuring embrace. "I'll be back before you know it."
Within the hour, Anakin gathered a small group of his closest friends and allies – trusted soldiers, pilots, and a few comrades from his training days who owed him favours. Among them were Rex, a fierce and loyal commander within his mother's army and his brother Fives, who had trained alongside him as he learned the ins and outs of Tatooine's military from the bottom up.
"So, we're going against the Senate's orders, then?" Rex asked, arching an eyebrow as they prepared a transport ship in the hangar.
"Yes," Anakin replied, not missing a beat. "They can punish me later. Right now, Naboo needs help and I'm not about to let Padmé face this alone."
Fives chuckled, shaking his head. "I always knew you'd do something crazy one day, Skywalker. Just never figured it'd be this crazy."
Anakin shot him a grin, adrenaline coursing through him as they boarded the transport. "You'll thank me when you're a hero of Naboo once this is all over."
As the ship took off, Anakin felt a rush of determination surging through him, his worries about the Senate fading into the background. His mind focused on one thing only: getting to Naboo and protecting the woman he loved. Nothing else mattered – it was background noise he tuned out. When Padmé was safe, he would face the consequences gladly.
When they emerged from hyperspace above Naboo, the sight before them was grim. Trade Federation battleships hovered ominously in the planet's atmosphere and small landing vessels were descending toward the surface. Anakin's heart thundered in his chest, but he steeled himself. They were going to have to act fast to pull this off.
"Take us down as close to the palace as possible," he ordered. "We're getting Padmé out of there."
As they descended into Naboo's capital, the tension in the air was thick. Anakin's hands gripped his blaster, his mind racing with the need to see Padmé safe and to protect her world from the invaders.
She needed him and he'd move mountains if it meant getting her out of harm's way.
Blaster fire echoed through the grand halls of Theed Palace as Anakin, Padmé, and his friends sprinted down a long corridor, the relentless whirring of battle droids close behind them. The once-stately palace was now a maze of smoke and chaos, and every step seemed to bring more droids in their path. It wasn't as difficult to sneak into the palace as he'd thought neither was finding his fiancé locked alone in her bedroom. But getting out of the palace?
That was proving difficult.
"Keep moving!" Anakin cried, ducking as a blast scorched the wall just above his head. He fired a few shots over his shoulder, taking down two of the droids, but the rest kept advancing. There were too many of them to take on like this without backup! They needed to get the hell out of here!
Padmé, dressed in simple travel clothes rather than her usual royal attire, held tightly to a blaster Anakin gave her. She moved quickly, eyes focused and steady as they darted down yet another hallway, with Rex and Fives flanking her, their own weapons blazing.
"This way!" she called, leading them down a side corridor toward a back stairwell.
Anakin covered her from the rear, taking out another wave of droids as they rushed forward. He could see more droids filing in from the far end of the hallway, their mechanical voices calling for even more reinforcements. "There's too many of them!" he shouted, his voice strained.
They reached the stairwell just as another group of droids emerged from the opposite end of the hall, blasters firing. Rex and Fives leapt in front, their blasters creating a hail of red bolts that slowed the droids' advance.
"Padmé, go!" Anakin urged, pressing his hand to the small of her back to get her moving up the stairs. "We'll hold them off!"
Padmé nodded, hesitating only a moment before dashing up the steps.
"Come on, Anakin!" Rex yelled, blasting a droid in the chest as it collapsed in a shower of sparks. "We can't hold them forever!"
Anakin fired one last shot, hitting a droid in its centre before spinning on his heel and racing up the stairs after Padmé and the others. As they climbed, Fives glanced back down, cursing under his breath as he saw droids pouring into the stairwell below.
"We've got company!" he bellowed.
They reached the top of the stairs and burst out onto a balcony overlooking the palace courtyard. The wind whipped around them and Anakin squinted as he looked over the edge, assessing their options. Far below, they could see more droids advancing, cutting off any escape from the lower levels.
"We're trapped," Padmé said, her voice tight but steady.
"Not yet," Anakin replied, scanning the area. He spotted a small transport skiff docked on the far side of the balcony. "There – if we can get to that skiff, I can fly us out of here."
Without another word, they sprinted toward the skiff, Anakin leading the way as he fired back at the droids flooding onto the balcony. Padmé covered his side, aiming with precision as her shots took down droids one after another.
They finally reached the skiff and Anakin leapt into the pilot's seat, firing up the engines as Rex and Fives climbed aboard, blasters still firing at the advancing droids.
"Padmé, let's go!" Anakin shouted.
She clambered aboard just as a blast hit the edge of the skiff, sending sparks flying. Anakin didn't hesitate – punching the throttle and the ship lurched forward, lifting off the balcony with a jolt. The droids fired after them, blaster bolts streaking past as they soared over the courtyard, leaving the palace behind.
As they gained altitude, Anakin glanced back, his gaze meeting Padmé's. For a moment, all the tension of the chase melted away and he felt a rush of breathless relief. They'd escaped, for now.
Padmé exhaled, her shoulders relaxing slightly as she looked back toward the palace. "Thank you for coming for me," she murmured, her eyes reflecting both gratitude and determination. "But this isn't over."
Anakin nodded, gripping the controls. "Not by a long shot."
The stars streaked by as the ship cut through hyperspace, casting a soft, silvery glow across the quiet cockpit. Everyone else was asleep, sprawled out in various corners of the ship, exhausted from their narrow escape from Naboo. Anakin was sitting at the controls and let out a deep breath as he glanced to his side where Padmé sat in the co-pilot's chair, her gaze distant and troubled.
Her fingers fidgeted in her lap, her eyes fixed on the endless stars. Though she was physically safe, he could see the worry etched into her features. Her mother, father and sister were still on Naboo, left behind amid the chaos. The relief of her safety was drowned by the ache of knowing her family and her people remained under siege. He couldn't imagine how she must be feeling. If his mother was left behind under the same circumstances…
"I'm sorry we weren't able to get your family out," he said softly, "If I could have made it happen, Padmé, I swear I would have saved them."
"You have nothing to be sorry for," she whispered, her voice barely louder than the hum of the ship. "It's my fault. I shouldn't have left them. I should be there fighting with them."
Anakin's gaze softened. "Padmé, listen to me. You've done everything you can for Naboo. Getting out of there wasn't abandoning anyone – it was making sure the Senate has to listen to you and see the truth of what's happening. You're Naboo's voice now. Without you, they don't stand a chance."
She looked down, silent for a moment as she absorbed his words, then glanced back up at him, her eyes glistening with emotion. "I just… I can't stand the thought of my family, my friends, everyone I love, stuck there, facing them alone."
Anakin reached over, placing a reassuring hand over hers. "I know. But we're going to make the Senate see sense. We'll get them to act. I swear, we're not going to stop until Naboo is free again – and until your family is safe." His voice held a fierce, unwavering determination. "We didn't come all this way just to let the Senate brush this aside. We'll make them listen. They'll have to do what's right."
She looked at him, gratitude and relief shining in her beautiful eyes, a hint of warmth cutting through her worry. "I don't know how to thank you for this, Anakin. You put everything on the line – for me, for Naboo. I don't know if I'd have had the strength to do the same if the roles were reversed."
Anakin shook his head, his gaze steady as he held hers. "I didn't have a choice, Padmé. Not really." His voice softened, becoming almost a whisper. "If there's was even the smallest chance you were in danger, I was coming. No matter what."
Padmé's eyes softened and a faint smile tugged at her lips, even as worry lingered in her gaze. "You know, I think I've always felt safe with you, even when we were just children picking arguments over the littlest things. It's strange… all those silly fights, and yet, I always knew I could count on you if I needed it."
Anakin's hand gently squeezed hers. "I always knew it was my duty to protect you. You were… different. Even then." He let out a soft, almost bashful laugh, glancing away. "You were annoying, but… special."
A warm chuckle escaped her and she threaded her fingers through his. "I'm glad you thought so." He watched her, feeling his heart tighten at the sight of the pain still storming inside her eyes. He wanted nothing more than to erase it, to stand by her, to protect her – and in the past couple of hours, he had a strange, exhilarating feeling that she might actually want him here with her. "Once we get to Coruscant," she took a deep breath, "You should go back to Tatooine. I don't want to put you in any more danger than I already have."
She couldn't be serious. Did she really think he'd come all this way just to drop her off and rush home to safety? "I'm not leaving you there. That's not even a possibility. I'm staying and fighting with you, as long as it takes. I won't sit back and let Naboo suffer – not while I can do something about it."
She looked at him, her eyes glistening with a mix of gratitude and fear and something he couldn't quite place. "Anakin, you don't have to do this. This isn't your fight."
"But it is," he insisted, leaning closer. "It's my fight because it's yours. Because you… because I…" He trailed off, realizing he was dangerously close to something neither of them were ready to face right now. "I'm staying," he said, his voice firm. "Right here, by your side. I'm going to help you make things right, Padmé. Whatever it takes."
She nodded, her gaze steady, a fierce determination in her eyes that matched his. "Then let's fight for Naboo together."
They shared a quiet smile and Anakin felt a spark of hope that somehow, despite the darkness surrounding them, they might be able to face the future together. And for the first time, he dared to believe that maybe, just maybe, she felt the same way he did.
The Senate buzzed with murmurs as Padmé took her place in the centre podium alongside Chancellor Valorum, standing tall and poised despite the exhaustion that weighed heavily on her shoulders. She was determined, she had to convince them to aid Naboo before it was too late. She knew Anakin was watching from the Naboo delegation pod with Chancellor Palpatine. His presence amongst the crowd was reassuring, a comfort she hadn't realised she needed before now.
"Honourable members of the Senate," Padmé began, her voice clear and unwavering, "Naboo is under siege. My people, your allies, face a dire threat from the Trade Federation, and we cannot stand alone. We have long been a peaceful planet, relying on diplomacy and cooperation rather than force, but now we are under attack. I am here to ask for your aid – our survival depends on it."
She scanned the room, trying to meet the eyes of senators who avoided her gaze as if the weight of her words were too much for them to bear. Some nodded along in sympathy, but others seemed hesitant, their faces guarded and unreadable. Why were so many hesitating? Didn't they realise if Naboo fell, others would soon join them? She felt her jaw clench as she observed the silent room, feeling her frustration rise. They're still hesitant, even after all that's happened?
Padmé cleared her throat and continued, her voice filling with quiet urgency. They had to change their minds! They had to help her! "The Trade Federation has imposed a brutal blockade, strangling Naboo while they grow richer and more powerful by the day. This is not a simple trade dispute, but a ruthless invasion, one that is depriving my people of their freedom, their livelihoods, and their dignity."
She glanced around the chamber, willing each senator to truly listen, to see the gravity of the situation beyond their own self-interest. Padmé could feel her frustration bubbling up, her hands gripping the podium as she fought to keep her voice steady. Her gaze swept the faces of the senators, and she saw a flicker of discomfort in a few of them as she pressed on, her voice growing in passion and urgency.
"Consider, for just one moment, if it were your homeworld under attack. Your families forced from their homes, your people suffering. Would you not be here, demanding justice? I am not asking for charity. I am asking for solidarity, for the Republic to stand by its values. We cannot allow fear, or greed, or apathy to decide the fate of Naboo. The galaxy is watching us, Senators and so are my people."
She paused, her heart heavy but resolute, gathering herself for one last appeal. "If you choose to ignore our plea, you are telling the galaxy that some lives matter less. That peace is negotiable. I refuse to believe that the Republic stands for that. I refuse to believe that we would let a sovereign planet be crushed under the heel of an oppressor without lifting a finger. We are stronger together than we are alone. Please… help us."
The chamber was silent for a moment, her words hanging heavily in the air. She saw a few senators lean in, whispering to each other, looking pensive. But there were still so many guarded expressions, faces set in disbelief, others calculating their own interests.
Anakin sat in the Naboo pod, his hands gripping the armrests so tightly his knuckles paled to white. Padmé's voice echoed through the chamber, unwavering and impassioned. She was pleading, laying out the brutal reality of Naboo's suffering and yet he could see the disinterest etched into the faces of so many senators around him. Some looked away, some whispered, others simply sat with the cold indifference of people who had already made up their minds.
He felt a surge of anger rising in his chest, boiling at the thought of Padmé standing there, vulnerable and exposed, pouring out her heart, and these people – these people – dared to hesitate. Didn't they understand? Didn't they care? Naboo was a member of the Republic, just like their worlds. And yet, here they were, stalling and debating while her home was under siege.
Every word Padmé spoke hit him like a blow, each plea for justice and unity a reminder of how the Republic was failing her. The politicians around him didn't know what it was like to have a world slipping from their grasp. They didn't understand that this was more than just politics. Padmé's family, her friends and her people were suffering, and they were too busy protecting their interests to even consider the cost of their inaction.
Anakin grit his teeth, his fury building with every passing moment. What good was the Senate if it couldn't protect its own? It was supposed to stand for unity, to defend its members, to safeguard the values that had kept the Republic strong. And yet here they were, turning their backs on Naboo simply because it was more convenient than taking a stand.
It was then, in the raw surge of his frustration, that something finally clicked together in his mind. He thought about the alliance between his family and Padmé's, the marriage that had been arranged for them before they were old enough to truly understand its purpose. He had resented it at times, had pushed back against it, not understanding why their families had been so insistent on this union when they could hardly stand each other for so long. But now, watching Padmé as she fought to convince the Senate to act, he finally understood.
This was why they had been so determined. Alone, Naboo and Tatooine were vulnerable without allies. Their parents had seen what he was only now beginning to realize, the Senate was too divided, too self-serving to protect every world. It was up to them to forge alliances, to build their own strength, so they wouldn't have to rely on the Republic's inconsistent loyalty.
His heart pounded as he watched Padmé's face, her resolve undiminished despite the lack of support around her. This was why their families had planned for them to be together, to join Naboo and Tatooine, to create something stronger than they could be alone. The realization filled him with a fierce determination. He was no longer just Padmé's childhood friend, her betrothed – he was her partner, her ally, her future king. He was going to fight for her, for their worlds, for everything they were building together.
The senators might not see the urgency, might not understand the cost of their inaction, but he did. And no matter what, he would be by her side, fighting for her and her people, even if it meant defying the Senate itself.
As Padmé's speech concluded and he saw the flicker of doubt cross her face, Anakin wanted nothing more than to go to her, to remind her that she wasn't alone. The Senate might waver, but he wouldn't. He would stand with her, not because of duty or obligation, but because she was his heart, his partner. He would see her people freed and her family safe, no matter what it took.
An idea began to form, one that made his heart pound with a mixture of pride and excitement. What if they married now? They were already engaged, but the official union of Naboo and Tatooine would make things easier politically. As her husband and the future king, he'd have a direct claim to fight for Naboo, bypassing the Senate's delays and objections.
And more than that, he realized, it would make this real. Not just words or promises but a true, binding commitment, even in the midst of all this turmoil. The thought of marrying Padmé, of standing beside her as her husband, filled him with a surge of pride and determination. He'd been ready for this moment for longer than he'd realised, and now he felt it more strongly than ever – he wanted to marry her, to take on whatever challenges lay ahead together as partners.
His eyes softened as he watched her, her strength and courage captivating him deeply. If the Senate wouldn't help, then he would. Whatever it took, he was going to make sure she had what she needed.
The chamber was silent for a few more moments, then began to fill with scattered applause and low murmurs. Anakin felt his heart swelled with pride – Padmé had spoken with conviction, her voice unwavering despite the opposition she faced.
His mind was set. Regardless of the Senate's decision, he'd make sure Naboo got the help it needed. And, if Padmé was willing, they'd be married – no more waiting, no more delays. Their future was here, in the heart of this struggle, and he was ready to fight for it.
Later that evening, Padmé found herself standing in one of the quiet, secluded corridors of the Senate building, gazing out through tall windows into the night sky over Coruscant. The moonlight filtered through the glass, casting a soft, silvery glow over everything and she let out a long breath, allowing the stillness to soothe her nerves. After the intensity of the last few days, she needed this moment just to gather her thoughts, to feel grounded again.
"Padmé." The familiar voice drew her from her thought, and she turned around, surprised but warmed to see Anakin approaching. He looked at her with a gentle smile, his presence radiating a steady strength she realized she'd come to depend on. The light touch of his voice, the way he looked at her… it all had a way of settling her, grounding her in a way no one else could "You were incredible today," he said softly, coming to stand with her. "I mean that."
She managed a smile, though it felt small, weak. "Thank you, Anakin. I just… hope it was enough." Her voice wavered, the weight of uncertainty and worry pressing on her shoulders. "I don't know what I'll do if they refuse to help Naboo."
"They won't refuse," Anakin said, his tone filled with quiet, unshakeable conviction. "But if they do, I'll be right there with you. You won't have to face it alone."
Padmé looked down, her fingers tracing along the edge of a stone ledge as she absorbed his words. Anakin's loyalty and certainty were a balm, a steady force she didn't know she needed until he'd shown up on Naboo to help her. She'd never felt so truly seen or understood and something inside her shifted – a warmth that grew stronger with every word he spoke.
"Padmé… I've been thinking," he said, his voice soft yet full of purpose. "Why should we wait any longer to be married?"
His words took her by surprise and she turned to him, feeling a sudden rush of emotions – hope, excitement, and a lingering fear. "Anakin, this… this isn't the right time. Naboo is under siege, and there's so much uncertainty."
"I know," he replied, gently taking her hand in his. His thumb traced over her knuckles, sending a comforting warmth through her skin. "But that's exactly why we should do this now. We don't know what's going to happen and I can't stand the thought of anything keeping us apart."
She stared down at their joined hands, her heart racing. Marriage. It was a commitment she'd always known they would make together, it was decided when they were still children, but she imagined their parents dreamed of this union with the security of peace surrounding them. But as she looked up into Anakin's eyes, she saw the depth of his sincerity, his unwavering devotion that had somehow grown from their childhood bickering into something she could no longer deny.
"Anakin… Our marriage is a big step," she murmured. "I want it to be… real, not something we rush into because of fear or uncertainty." Or because their parents thought it was for the best for their worlds and people. This would shape the rest of their lives, it had to be a decision they were ready to make together.
"It is real," he said, his voice steady, filled with quiet conviction. "Padmé, I've known for a long time now that you're the only person I want by my side. We've waited long enough, haven't we?"
As she searched his gaze, the doubt within her faded, replaced by a growing realization that had been there all along, just beneath the surface. She loved him. She always had, from the way he'd stood by her side with fierce loyalty to the quiet moments when he saw past her armour to the heart of who she was. Anakin had been there all her life, challenging her, supporting her and making her feel seen in a way no one else could.
She took a shaky breath, feeling her fears melt away. "I've… always wanted this, Anakin," she admitted, her voice soft. "From the moment we were children, bickering and fighting, you were always there. And now…" A smile broke through her uncertainty, warm and true as she looked up at him. "There's no one else I'd rather take this step with. No one else I'd rather have by my side."
A soft smile touched his lips and he lifted her hand, pressing a tender kiss to her fingers. "Then let's do this. Right now. We don't need a grand ceremony or a hall full of people. Just you and me."
Padmé felt a thrill of excitement as she nodded, her heart racing with a joy she hadn't allowed herself to feel before. "Alright," she whispered, a small, joyful laugh escaping her as she looked into his eyes. "Let's get married."
Anakin's face lit up, and they shared a quiet, breathless smile. At that moment, the weight of uncertainty lifted, replaced by the peace of knowing she was right where she was meant to be – with him, her partner, her love, and her future. Hand in hand, they stood together, ready to take this step they'd both dreaded and dreamed of.
The small, dimly lit chapel was nestled in the mid-levels of Coruscant, its modest walls adorned with faded murals and half-burned hover-candles that flickered with the occasional draft. It wasn't a place one would imagine for royalty, but in its own quiet way, it held a charm – a forgotten sanctuary where vows could be whispered and love could flourish without the weight of a galactic audience. Anakin and Padmé stood before the altar, their hands tightly clasped, lost in a moment that contained only each other.
The holy man, an elderly man with a gentle smile and a slightly crooked robe, looked between them, sensing their nervous anticipation. He must have seen countless hurried couples come through his doors, surely he wouldn't piece together who they were. Padmé's heart was pounding, her eyes never leaving Anakin's. Here, without the grandeur of Naboo or the eyes of dignitaries, she felt closer to him than ever before. His gaze was soft, yet filled with an unbreakable resolve that sent a thrill rushing through her. The fears she felt earlier vanished, replaced by a sudden, overwhelming certainty. She truly, deeply loved him, more than she had ever allowed herself to realize.
The ceremony began in gentle tones that blended with the distant hum of Coruscant sky-traffic outside. Anakin's hands were warm in hers, steady and strong as if he could sense her every thought, her every tremor of excitement and trepidation.
"Do you, Anakin Skywalker, take Padmé Amidala Naberrie as your wife, to cherish and honour, to protect and stand beside, for all the days of your life?"
Anakin's gaze never wavered, his voice was steady and filled with quiet passion. "I do," he whispered, his eyes holding hers with a promise that ran deeper than words.
The holy man turned to Padmé, who felt her breath catch. "And do you, Padmé Amidala, take Anakin Skywalker as your husband, to love and support, to trust and cherish, for all the days of your life?"
She swallowed, her heart swelling with emotions she could barely contain. "I do," she whispered, feeling tears prickling at the corners of her eyes. In this moment, she knew there was no life she wanted without him in it, no future that felt right unless it was by his side.
The holy man smiled, nodding as he placed his hands over theirs. "Then, by the vows you have spoken and the love you share, I pronounce you to be husband and wife. You may kiss your bride."
Anakin's face softened as he took a step closer, his hand reaching up to gently cradle her cheek. She closed her eyes as he leaned in, their breaths mingling in the brief, heart-stopping moment before their lips met. When they finally kissed, it was tender and full of promise, a gentle brush of lips that deepened with the love they'd held back for so long.
Padmé's arms slipped around his neck, pulling him closer, feeling the warmth and certainty of his embrace, the thrill of belonging to him in this way. She felt a happiness that was almost overwhelming, filling her with a sense of rightness, of destiny. Here, in this simple chapel, far from the expectations and duties of their worlds, she was his and he was hers.
As they broke apart, Anakin rested his forehead against hers, his eyes filled with wonder. "We did it," he whispered, a joyful smile lighting up his face.
Padmé laughed softly, unable to contain her happiness despite the troubles plaguing her homeworld. "We did."
And as they held each other in the soft glow of the chapel lights, surrounded by the quiet hum of the constant activity outside, they both knew that this moment, though humble and hidden from the galaxy, was theirs. An unbreakable bond forged not from duty but in the quiet, sacred promise of love.
The newlyweds returned to Senator Palpatine's spacious apartment, its grand marble floors and opulent décor a stark contrast to the simple, intimate setting where they'd exchanged their vows only an hour earlier. Padmé felt a flutter in her stomach as they entered, her hand still entwined with Anakin's, the enormity of their secret wedding only beginning to sink in. They were married, bound by promises that felt as real as the warmth of his hand in hers.
Senator Palpatine was waiting for them, his smile polite but his eyes curious as he regarded the two of them. "Ah, your Highnesses," he said smoothly. "I trust you found your time out and about productive. We shall meet in the morning to discuss everything before making our way to the Senate. For now, my staff have prepared your rooms for the evening."
"Room," Anakin interjected, his voice steady. "We'll be staying together." He glanced at Padmé, a hint of uncertainty flashing in his gaze, but the small, reassuring smile she gave him confirmed her answer. She could feel her heart racing, but she nodded, her hand tightening slightly around his in silent support.
Palpatine's eyebrows rose and a faint line creased his forehead. "I understand you're engaged, of course, but it would be wise to maintain… separate accommodations. For propriety's sake," he added, his tone warm but undeniably firm.
Padmé felt a jolt of nervousness but pushed it aside, meeting Palpatine's gaze with calm resolve. "Thank you for your concern, Senator," she said, her voice unwavering. "But Anakin and I are no longer simply engaged." She took a breath, feeling the weight of her next words. "We were married this evening. My husband and I will remain together."
For a split second, a flicker of something unreadable crossed Palpatine's face – surprise, or perhaps something else. But he quickly masked it, his polite smile returning, though it lacked its usual warmth. "Well," he said slowly, his gaze lingering on them both. "I… see." Anakin's hand slipped around Padmé's waist, his silent support grounding her as Palpatine took in the news. The senator inclined his head slightly, his tone carefully neutral. "In that case, I will respect your wishes. Congratulations to you both."
"Thank you," Anakin replied, a hint of pride in his voice.
"Please," Palpatine continued, gesturing toward the hallway that led to the guest quarters. "I'll show you to your room."
They followed Palpatine down the corridor, his measured pace and quiet demeanour unusual for the senator, who always seemed to exude effortless charm but Padmé shrugged it off, He must have friends and family on Naboo too. This was a stressful time for all of them. He opened a door at the end of the hall, revealing a beautifully designed room, richly decorated in Naboo-inspired art and linens. "I trust you'll be comfortable here," he said, his tone controlled, though his expression was guarded.
Anakin inclined his head, his arm still around Padmé as they stepped inside together. "Thank you, Senator," he replied, his tone polite but unmistakably firm. The unspoken message was clear, this was their choice, their life.
As Palpatine quietly withdrew, Padmé finally exhaled, the tension lifting as she looked around the room. She glanced at Anakin, her heart fluttering again as she realized they were alone, truly alone, as husband and wife. The weight of what they'd done tonight filled her with both excitement and a tender, dizzying sense of intimacy. They were really married… She was married!
Anakin closed the door, turning to her with a smile that held all the love and warmth she was coming to cherish. "Are you alright?" he asked softly, his eyes filled with a tenderness that made her heart skip.
She nodded, her smile mirroring his as she stepped closer, resting her hands on his chest. "I am. More than alright."
Anakin took Padmé's hands in his, his eyes softening as he looked down at her. The faint light from the room cast a warm glow over them and for one quiet, intimate moment, the galaxy outside faded away.
"Padmé," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "I need you to know… you have my loyalty, my trust, my fidelity and my love, for the rest of my life." He paused, swallowing as he gathered his thoughts, his gaze steady and unwavering. "I swear to you, I'll love you with everything I am. I'll do everything in my power to make you happy and to keep you safe." Padmé felt a surge of warmth, tears prickling at the corners of her eyes as she held his gaze. His words wrapped around her heart, filling her with a love so profound it was almost overwhelming. Anakin's mouth quirked into a small, self-effacing smile. "I can't promise things will always be peaceful between us," he said, a faint laugh escaping him. "They never have been, have they?"
Padmé laughed too, a gentle, joyful sound. She shook her head, a smile spreading across her face. "No, they haven't," she agreed, her fingers tightening around his. "But I wouldn't have it any other way."
They shared a laugh, their bond deepening in that moment, built not on a perfect illusion but on the raw, real connection they had always shared.
Taking a steadying breath, Padmé lifted her free hand to touch his cheek, her voice soft and full of conviction. "I promise my devotion, heart, body and soul to only you. I promise to love you for the rest of my life, Anakin. No matter what comes. No matter where this life takes us. There's no one else I could ever want at my side."
Anakin's eyes shone with emotion and he leaned down, pressing his forehead to hers as he closed his eyes, letting her words wash over him. "You have me," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "You've always had me."
They stayed that way, wrapped in each other's embrace, feeling the weight of their vows settle comfortably around them. And when he finally kissed her, it was slow and tender, a promise sealed not just in words but in the deep, unbreakable love they had for one another.
In that quiet room, the galaxy's troubles were kept at bay and for one night, all they had was each other and the promise of a future built on love.
The transport ship touched down on the outskirts of Theed, flanked by an entire fleet of Republic vessels and an impressive squadron of Tatooine troops. Padmé, Anakin, and their friends disembarked, met by rows of soldiers who saluted their arrival. This time, they were not alone. They had the full might of the Republic on their side and they were here to reclaim Naboo.
As they moved through the palace grounds, the familiar elegance of Theed's marble hallways was marred by signs of battle. Blaster marks scarred the walls and debris littered the floors, remnants of Gunray's oppressive occupation. Padmé's heart clenched as she took it all in, but her resolve only hardened.
Step by step, they pushed forward, advancing into the heart of the palace where Nute Gunray and his remaining forces had made their last stand. Gunray's droids fell one by one to the Republic forces, and his own Neimoidian guards scattered, powerless against the oncoming tide.
Finally, they reached the throne room. Nute Gunray stood near the throne, surrounded by a handful of droids. His eyes widened as Padmé strode in, Anakin and the others at her side. He attempted to mask his fear with a smile that only served to deepen Padmé's disgust. "Ah, Princess Padmé Amidala," he sneered, straightening himself as best as he could. "Had you not escaped, I had plans for us to be wedded and for Naboo would be under my control as your rightful husband. Your people have suffered for your cowardice."
Padmé's face contorted in repulsion, her voice sharp and resolute as she took a step closer. "Your invasion of my planet is over, Viceroy. Naboo belongs to its people – not to an opportunistic coward like you."
Gunray's smirk faltered, but before he could respond, Anakin stepped forward, his stance protective and filled with righteous indignation. "Besides, Padmé already has a husband." He crossed his arms, his voice carrying a deadly calm. "So if you so much as look at my wife again, I'll make sure you regret it."
Gunray paled, his expression turning to one of horror as he realized the full weight of what Anakin had just said. "W-wife?" he stammered, glancing between the two of them, his confidence crumbling. "You… married him?"
Padmé nodded, standing tall as she met Gunray's disbelieving gaze. "Yes. And together, we're ending your hold over my people."
Defeated and humiliated, Gunray stumbled backwards as the Republic guards moved in, taking him into custody. The droids around him dropped their blasters, surrendering as victory echoed throughout the palace.
As the last of the enemy was rounded up, Padmé turned to Anakin, a triumphant smile spreading across her face. "We did it!" She cried, the relief flooding her as the reality of their victory set in.
Anakin's grin matched hers, his eyes alight with pride. "Naboo is free, Padmé. It's over."
With the threat finally lifted, they made their way out of the throne room and down the palace steps, where the people of Naboo had gathered, cheering for their return. Padmé spotted her family, her mother, father, and sister, standing together, their faces filled with a mixture of worry and joy.
Padmé broke away from the group, running toward them as they opened their arms to her, wrapping her in a warm embrace. "Mom! Dad! Sola!" she breathed, clutching them tightly as tears filled her eyes. "I'm so sorry I couldn't get back to you sooner. I did everything I could."
Her mother stroked her hair, whispering soothing words. "You have saved not only us, but our people, sweetheart. I am humbled to call you my daughter."
"All this has proven you're ready to take your place," Ruwee smiled and her heart clenched at the proud tears gleaming in her father's eyes. "And Naboo is ready to accept its new Queen."
Anakin watched from a short distance, his heart swelling at the sight of her reunion. When Padmé finally turned back to him, she beckoned him forward, taking his hand as she re-introduced him to her family, not as a family friend but as her husband. As the man she loved, the man who risked everything to fight by her side.
Hand in hand, they stood together, victorious and united, knowing that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them as one.
The sun shone brightly over Theed's grand plaza, casting a golden glow over the crowds gathered to celebrate the liberation of Naboo. Laughter and cheers filled the air as citizens rejoiced, their hearts light with the triumph of freedom. Banners of blue and gold adorned the palace and streets and joyful music filled the air, a jubilant melody carrying the spirit of the day.
At the head of the procession stood Padmé, dressed in a magnificent gown of shimmering pink, feathered fabric and intricate gold details, grinning in the traditional painted face of Naboo Queens as she stood hand-in-hand with Anakin, her newly wedded husband and her equal in every way. As they descended the palace steps to the cheers of the crowd, Anakin glanced over at Padmé, a mischievous glint in his eye. "So, I suppose you're going to threaten to trip me down these steps? For old times' sake?"
Padmé arched an eyebrow, a smirk playing at her painted lips. "It crossed my mind," she replied, feigning innocence. "I'd say you're long overdue another tumble."
Anakin laughed, leaning in closer. "If you do, Padmé Amidala Skywalker, you'd better be prepared for swift and brutal revenge."
Padmé's laughter mingled with his, the sound warm and full of life. "Is that so?" she teased, leaning in, her voice a soft whisper. "Well, I suppose I'll just have to risk it."
The crowd cheered louder as they shared a laugh and without a second thought, Anakin pulled her closer, capturing her lips in a soft, loving kiss. The cheers grew as they kissed, the world around them falling away as they shared in the joy and relief of the day. They had fought hard and risked everything, and now they stood as husband and wife, ready to face whatever came next.
The music shifted to a triumphant fanfare as they reached the final steps, where the royal priestess stood, waiting to complete the day's ceremonies. She raised her hands, calling for silence and the crowd stilled, anticipation hanging in the air.
"In honour of Naboo's liberation and in celebration of the union of our future Queen with her chosen consort," the priestess intoned, her voice clear and reverent, "We recognize them, from this moment onwards, as Queen and King of Naboo, to rule together in peace and prosperity!"
Padmé felt her heart swell as she and Anakin knelt, the priestess placing matching crowns upon their heads, the symbols of their shared commitment to Naboo and each other. Rising as one, they turned to face their people, who erupted into cheers and applause, their love and loyalty reflected in every joyful face.
Anakin took Padmé's hand, lifting it high as they waved to their people, their hearts beating in perfect harmony. He glanced at her, his eyes filled with pride and adoration. "I can't believe we finally made it here in one piece," he murmured, his voice laced with awe and happiness.
Padmé smiled, leaning in to whisper, "And blissfully in love, at that."
He grinned, pulling her close once more as they shared a final kiss, sealing their love and their vow to serve Naboo and one day, Tatooine, together. The crowd cheered louder, the music swelled, and hand in hand, they stepped forward to begin their journey as rulers – united, unwavering, and ready for whatever the future held.
From a shaded balcony overlooking the grand celebration, Jobal and Shmi watched with satisfaction as Anakin and Padmé stood together in the plaza below, talking quietly, exchanging kisses and soft smiles, their newly crowned heads close together. The matching regalia atop their heads gleamed in the sunlight, symbols of both their love and their shared commitment to Naboo. Even amidst the crowd and festivities, it was as if they were in their own world, wrapped in each other.
Jobal took a sip of champagne, her smile growing as she nudged Shmi with her elbow. "You see? For all their stubbornness, we were right all along."
Shmi chuckled, raising her glass in agreement. "They may have tried to fight it, but I knew this was their future from the moment they met," she said, a glint of pride in her eyes as she watched her son hold Padmé's hand, lifting it to kiss her knuckles softly.
Jobal's eyes shone with happy tears as she lifted her glass to meet Shmi's. "To our children," she said warmly, her voice thick with pride and joy. "And to the future they'll build together."
"To our children," Shmi echoed, clinking her glass against Jobal's with a soft, satisfied smile. "And to us – mothers who knew best all along."
They shared a knowing, elated look, both feeling a bit smug as they watched their prediction finally come to life. In a way, this coronation was as much theirs as it was Padmé's and Anakin's – a culmination of years spent watching, guiding, tearing apart fights and hoping for the love that had finally blossomed before their eyes.
As Anakin and Padmé shared yet another soft kiss, laughter and light in their eyes, Jobal and Shmi exchanged one last smile, toasting each other with the quiet pride that only mothers could feel. They had always known and today as the people of Naboo cheered for their Queen and King, they couldn't have been prouder.
Feeling a bit naughty, Jobal couldn't resist one last toast. "To our future grandchildren – and their swift arrival!"