A true heart should never be doubted.
Recap: Treachery in the Senate. The Jedi Council suspects that Senator Rush Clovis is secretly taking part in a Separatist conspiracy. But to find out what the Senator from Scipio is up to, the Council will need a spy of its own. Meanwhile, Jedi Anakin Skywalker has been away from Coruscant on a lengthy tour of duty leading the clone army. Now, Anakin returns for a long-awaited reunion with his wife, Padme Amidala.
Anakin was shown entering Padme's apartment as he was carrying some things in his hands.
"Master Ani, what a delight to see you," chuckled 3P0 as he saw his creator. "I shall tell Mistress..."
"Anakin!" gasped Padme as she saw her husband. "That will be all, 3P0."
"Are you sure, my lady?"
"Yes, 3P0. Now go," stated the Senator.
"Oh! Very well," said the yellow protocol droid as he left his owners to be by themselves.
The pair looked at each other with a smile as Padme wasted no time hugging her husband.
"I brought dinner," said Anakin as he had some food in his hand.
"How did you manage this?" asked Padme with a smile.
"I had to hitch a ride on a cargo freighter."
"What happened to your military transport?"
"Eh, it blew up," said Anakin. "Also, these are from Storm."
The Jedi Knight also had some candles that were bought by his friend. He knew that his pal was planning to have dinner with Padme after he'd had been going for a while on his latest mission, so he decided to help his friends with their romantic dinner. He informed Anakin that he would cover for him while he enjoyed some time with his wife.
"Nice to see he's looking out for us," said Padme taking the candles from her husband.
"Anyways, the freighter captain was bringing a shipment to a restaurant here, and he gave me something to bring home. We just have to... What?" said Anakin looking at his wife.
"You called this 'home'," said Padme.
"What else would I call it?" chuckled the Jedi Knight before planting a quick peck on her lips and grabbing her hand.
"The Naboo Ambassador gave me something. I think I still have it here somewhere," said the Senator.
"Oh, must be something good," said Anakin as he sat down on the couch.
"It is. It'll be perfect. Five-blossom bread, my specialty." said Padme with her hands behind her back.
"You have a specialty?" mocked the Jedi.
"I know how to make lots of things. When I was little, I cooked every day. I've been saving it for a special occasion." snickered Padme to her husband.
"An evening alone to you? I can't think of an occasion more special," smiled Anakin as he held his wife in his arms. Padme simply put her head on her husband's shoulder as the pair smiled.
At the same time, the Jedi Council was discussing amongst themselves. Present was Windu, Yoda, Obi-wan, Luna, and Celestia.
"Involved with the Separatists, the banking clan is," spoke the small green creature. "Discover the truth in this matter, we must."
"I couldn't agree more, Master Yoda," spoke Celestia.
"But if Senator Amidala has already refused to spy on Senator Clovis of the Banking Delegation, I am not sure how we can change her mind," responded Kenobi.
"That is why we asked you to summon Young Skywalker," said Windu.
"I've been signaling him all night. I don't know where he could be," said Kenobi as he stroked his beard, trying to find out where his student was.
"Storm, do you have any insight on where your friend is?" asked Luna as she had summoned her student and was standing before them.
"Sorry, Master. But I'm afraid, even I don't know where Anakin is. I haven't heard from him in a while as well." said Storm as he remained under pressure while covering for his best friend.
"Curious. You don't know either," said Luna as she was now starting to think.
"But if I may, Masters. If Anakin isn't available to speak with Senator Amidala. Perhaps, allow me to see if I can sway her?" asked Storm as he hoped to direct the attention of the Jedi Masters away from wondering where Anakin was.
Back with the married couple, they had just finished dinner as they stood next to each other looking out at the city. Anakin had Padme in his arms as they each had smiles.
"I wish it could always be like this," said Padme.
"Me, too," said Anakin.
They looked at each as they were about to kiss when Anakin's comlink went off. That alone meant, he couldn't ignore it.
"Ugh! I have to report to the Jedi Council," said Anakin to his wife with a groan.
"Right now?"
"Actually, about seven clicks ago," stated the Jedi Knight while rubbing his neck. "I keep delaying, Obi-wan will send a clone squad out to find me. I've been ducking his signals all night. Not to mention, I don't think Storm can keep them distracted for much longer before they get suspicious."
"I understand," sighed Padme as their evening was cut short.
"I can sense that you're angry," said Anakin to his wife.
"Don't think you can read my mind," responded the Senator looking away.
"Padme, you shouldn't take this personally. Duty comes first, especially in wartime," stated the Jedi Knight with a stern tone before planting a quick kiss on her forehead. He then began to leave as she continued to look away as an expression formed on her face.
Nighttime had officially fallen on Coruscant when Anakin had gotten the call. He made it back to the Jedi Temple as he made his way to the communications room where Windu, Obi-wan, Luna, and Storm were present. With Yoda coming into frame.
"Sorry, I'm late. What's going on?" asked the Jedi Knight as he looked at the communications table.
"We believe Senator Clovis is conspiring with the Separatists," informed Windu to the Jedi Knight.
"We need to find out what he's planning," stated Luna.
"Do you want me to interrogate him, Masters?" asked Anakin to both of them.
"No. Treat Senator Clovis as a criminal, we should not," stated Yoda to his peers.
"The slightest misstep could cause a major incident," said Kenobi.
"You feel as if we provoke him, we'll never find out what he's up to," clarified Anakin to his master.
"Not to mention, the consequences of people calling us into question. They'll be conspiracy theories trying to ratify the Jedi aren't peacekeepers and that we are to blame for the war starting when we didn't," chimed in Storm.
"Exactly. We need someone's not a Jedi to get close to him for us," said Windu as he agreed with what the Jedi Knights said before informing Skywalker of their plan. "Someone he won't suspect."
"If not a Jedi, who?" asked Anakin.
"A fellow senator," stated Luna.
"Selected Senator Amidala, we have," spoke Yoda.
"You want her to spy on Clovis? I don't think that's a good idea. There has to be someone else who's more qualified for this." said Anakin.
"We chose Senator Amidala because she and Clovis entered the Senate in the same year. They served on the same committees. They were... good friends." said Windu as his tone when he said those last two words was hinting at something more.
"I didn't know that," said Anakin as he was now processing this information.
His response got Obi-wan to raise an eyebrow at his student as Storm only saw this and gulped a bit.
"Personal matters for the Senator, these are. Know them, why would you?" asked Yoda.
Seems the Jedi Knight's response made the Jedi Masters all raise an eyebrow of sorts.
"It's just that I wouldn't expect Senator Amidala to have a friend in the Banking Clan," said Anakin as he stumbled over some of his words when speaking.
"Master Yoda has already asked her to spy on Clovis for us. And she refused," said Luna.
"Trust you, she does, Skywalker. As well as Storm. That is why convince her, you both must."
"Yes, Master," responded Anakin to Yoda.
The group disbursed for the night as when the Jedi Masters left, it was only the Jedi Knights that hung back a bit.
"Did you know?" asked Anakin.
"About the plan? No. About Padme being friends with Clovis? Yes. She told me herself." said Storm.
"So she told you. But why didn't she tell me?"
"No offense, but she probably didn't think it was important. That and because you know... you two... are... engaged," said the boy.
"Still why did she keep a secret? Does she not trust me?"
"I don't think it's that. Besides, I have better a poker face than you. It's why I'm able to cover for you two during your private moments. You can thank Luna for teaching me to have a strong poker face as part of my training when I was still a Padawan. It helps when you have to negotiate."
"I just don't know it's a good idea. But, we can't speak for her. Maybe she'll listen if knows the message is from us. And not from someone whose 'business'." said Anakin as the pair began to leave.
"By the way, thanks for covering for me. I appreciate it. Also, Padme says thanks for the candles."
"Just looking out for a bro," smiled Storm as the pair split to return to their quarters.
The next day, at the Senate, the two Jedi Knights were searching for Padme. It didn't take long as they found the Senator. She had just finished a meeting as the pair exited with the two Jedi catching up to her.
"Senator Amidala."
"General Skywalker. You finally found some time for me."
"Uh-oh," said Storm to himself as he could tell that Padme was still holding a grudge given their night being cut so short.
"By the way, Storm. Thanks for the gifts. At least, I had something to keep me occupied," said Padme with a smile to the boy before shifting to glare at her husband.
"Are you still mad about last night?" whispered the Jedi Knight to his wife.
"Why would I be mad? I'm not mad," spoke Padme in a straight tone.
"Good. Now tell me about your dealings with Senator Clovis," demanded Anakin.
"You couldn't wait a few seconds to let the air cool before you ask her that," stated Storm as he could tell Anakin's timing was off.
"So you're both here on Jedi business," sighed Padme. "I already told Master Yoda, I don't want to spy on a colleague and an old friend."
"Old friend?" glared Anakin as he still couldn't get past that.
"Jealous coming, in three... two... one.." counted down Storm as he knew.
"How well do you know Clovis?"
"Why does that matter?" asked Padme. "That was before we were together."
The three then entered a room and they approached one of the pods. Anakin pushed the button as they began to float so all three could talk in private.
"I'm just trying to get a sense of who this guy is," responded Anakin. "We'll need to brief whoever does end up spying on him."
"Oh! I thought you were here to talk me into becoming an agent for the Jedi," said Padme glaring at her husband. "Storm?"
"Y-Yeah, that's... what we're here for," said the boy as he answered truthfully.
"I appreciate your honest," said the Senator to her friend while still being mad at her husband.
"That is not a job for you," sighed Anakin as he crossed his arms. "I don't agree with the Council on this. If Clovis is involved in a Separatist conspiracy, the last place you should be is anywhere near him."
"Clovis is conspiring with the Separatists?" said Padme as this was the first time she heard that.
"Didn't Master Yoda tell you that when he spoke with you?" asked Storm.
"No, he didn't say that. I can't believe Clovis would do that. This is terrible. I never expected that from him." said Padme as he let out a sigh. "Someone has to find out the truth."
"Someone does. Just not you," said Anakin as he pushed the button and made their platform stop.
"Why not me?" asked Padme as with the new info revealed, she was onboard for spying.
"Because it's going to be dangerous! Whoever takes this mission will be putting their life at risk!" stated Anakin.
"I've been in many tough situations before. It never seemed to bother you!" responded Padme. "I never stopped you from facing danger. You're constantly getting shot at!"
"I've been trained for that!" responded Anakin. "It's very different from spying on a traitor."
"You mean, I can't handle the mission," corrected the Senator to her husband to which he sighed.
"I mean, I'm not gonna let you do it."
"You're not going to let me?" mocked Padme with disdain. "It's not your decision to make. It's mine."
"Lucky for us. You already decided to refuse," answered the Jedi Knight.
"Actually, I just changed my mind. You've convinced me that it's vital to learn what Clovis is doing. I accept the mission to spy on him." said the girl with determination.
"Even though I'm telling you not to?" responded Anakin with slight anger in his voice.
"Fine, then we'll do what we do best and let democracy handle it. Storm?" said the Senator as she looked at her friend.
The boy had remained silent as he'd been watching his friends go at it. Now he was being asked by the married couple to let his voice be heard and pick which side he felt was the right choice. He looked in between his two friends as he hated that he was being forced to choose. He let out a sigh as he spoke.
"I hate to say it... but... Padme is right, Anakin. If we're to uncover this mystery, then... she's our best bet. We have to trust that she'll find something about Clovis and the Separatists." said the Jedi Knight. His response got Anakin to be angry as he didn't like that his pal was siding with his wife given the potential danger.
"That settles it. Don't take it personally, Anakin. Duty comes first, especially in wartime," said Padme using her own husband's words from last night against him.
The platform reached the end as Padme and Storm got off while Anakin remained behind a bit. He growled as his hands clenched into fists as he couldn't believe his own friends betrayed him.
Soon all three of them headed to the Jedi Temple. They were now standing in front of the Jedi Council as Celestia, Luna, Windu, Yoda, and Obi-wan were present. The Senator informed the Jedi Masters of her answer, and they all nodded.
"First, I'll need to get back in touch with him. Clovis and I haven't spoken in a long time," said Padme.
"A surprise that is, given your past," spoke Yoda.
"What does that mean, Senator?" asked Anakin.
"At one point, Clovis and I were... close," Padme's response got Anakin to feel more jealousy at how his wife said that. Storm gave a slight punch in the arm to avoid the Jedi Knight from doing anything rash.
"Close, huh? Relationship-wise, I can assume," said Celestia as she and Luna knew what Padme said.
Especially given, that they were all girls and that they had secret tells that would mean something that boys didn't understand what it meant.
"How long did you two know each other?" asked Luna.
"Regardless of all that, ladies. It was my choice to return things to a strictly professional level. Clovis didn't take it well." said the Senator.
"You hear that professional level," whispered Storm to Anakin as he was getting jealous for nothing.
"Do you think you'll be able to rekindle your friendship with him?" asked Windu.
"Master, Senator Clovis is a very dangerous man. If he realizes she's trying to trick him--"
"I'm aware of the risks, Master Jedi," said Padme cutting off Anakin. "But I know I can regain Clovis' trust."
"Good. The closer you can get to him, the better," replied Obi-wan.
"I understand. I'll do whatever is necessary to succeed in my mission," said the Senator as she left.
"And I'll do whatever I have to, to protect her," said Anakin. His response didn't go unheard by Storm as the boy sighed.
It was now evening as Padme was preparing herself. She had managed to get in contact with her old friend. She had invited him to go out for dinner as a way to reconnect and catch up. Of course, such an event required an outfit, and Rarity was already on it. She presented the dress to her friend as Padme complimented the girl on her work being fabulous as usual. However, before she left, she was given one last surprise. In secrecy, the Jedi Masters had informed Storm of a special assignment. Given how Anakin was acting to the Senator going undercover. They thought it best to have someone stay close by the girl who wasn't as hot-tempered as her husband.
So they made a quick discussion and with Luna's permission. They allowed Storm to watch Padme's conversation from afar while keeping an eye on her. So the boy showed up and informed the Senator of the plan. At least with the boy who she saw as a younger brother, she didn't mind him watching over her. But seeing as how he needed to remain undetected, Padme had an evil smile appear on her face. She quickly turned to Rarity as she had a way to kill two birds with one stone.
The Senator was now in a restaurant as she was waiting for Clovis to arrive. She sat near a window to gaze out to see the view of the city as the evening orange made it that much more beautiful. And sitting at another table was Storm as he had his back turned to her. Of course, he wasn't alone as it seemed that Padme's idea to have him go undercover, involved him going on a "date" with Rarity. The Jedi Knight was against the idea but soon swallowed his pride for the greater good. As for Rarity, it was a dream come true for the girl.
The fashionista even went so far as to create some outfits for them to wear on their "date". Rarity was wearing a black gown with a pair of black long-sleeved gloves, a double beaded pearl necklace with a cream-colored pendant, and her hair in an updo with a cream-colored maid-style headband. As for Storm, the girl had given him a black tuxedo with a fedora and some white gloves and black shoes. While the boy wasn't invested in doing this with the fashionista, he did admit she had a talent for creating clothes. What they wore, would definitely convince anyone that they were simply going out to eat instead of spying.
"So, since we're on..."
"Shush!" said Storm as he put his finger up to silence the girl as he wanted to prepare himself for when Clovis would arrive.
"Rude, I was going to say..."
"Be quiet. And before you say it, this is not a date!" said Storm bringing the menu up to cover his face.
"Fine," sighed Rarity as she didn't bother to continue her advances toward the Jedi she had a crush on. "If this isn't a date, then shall we call this what you do when you're with friends. A hangout, perhaps?"
"That's fine, but be quiet," said Storm as he was glad the girl didn't see this was a date, especially cause he was on duty.
"Well, if that suits your taste? Then might I ask, care to tell me about yourself?" asked Rarity.
"Why would I do that? I don't even know anything about you. Other than your Padme's friend." said Storm putting down the menu.
"Then allow me to start. I'm Rarity Belle. But you can simply call, Rarity or Lady Rarity." said the girl offering her hand to kiss.
Storm just rolled his eyes as he kept his ear focused on Padme. Rarity sighed putting her hand down as she took a sip from her glass of water.
"And you are Storm, correct? Jedi?" asked the girl.
"So you know who I am. Why the hell did you ask then?" stated the boy.
"Look, forget the notion that this is a fake date. Forget that we're undercover. Just... I want to talk... is all. Besides, how can I thank the person who saved me from that underground prison if I don't know anything about him? I want to know about you. Not as someone who's fascinated with you, but as a regular. As potentially, a friend." spoked Rarity being genuine. "Not to mention, he's not here yet. So we mind as well chat till he arrives."
Storm turned to look at Padme as she was still waiting for their target to show up. He sighed as he turned back to look at the marshmallow girl.
"Fine."
"Excellent. Now, seeing as how I haven't properly told you about myself. I feel it best if a lady discloses first. As you stated before, I'm Padme's friend. But I'm more than that, I'm her fashion designer. I create all the outfits the Senator wears."
"Huh? I always did wonder how Padme had such cool-looking outfits," stated Storm.
"They're exquisite, I tell you. But I don't just design dresses, as you can see, I do tend to design things for the opposite sex," said Rarity while pointing at the outfit she made for Storm.
"Alright, I'll admit. This suit is pretty good," said Storm as the boy did find himself presentable in the formal clothes he was wearing.
"You should stop by my shop. Perhaps you'll find other things I can sell you."
"You have a shop?" said Storm with a raised eyebrow.
"Well, where else do I live? Before, I became Padme's fashion designer. I was but an average seamstress. Trying her best to make it big in the fashion world here on Coruscant. But I wasn't gaining much attention. So there was a small fashion contest being held. I was at my wit's end. I had dreams of being a successful fashion designer and creating a fashion empire. For I believe, clothes can express the inner beauty of anybody. Whether they're shy, anxious, timid, whatever. To me, clothes speak."
"These speak to you?" said Storm as he grabbed his suit.
"Of course, they tell me, you're a kind, gentle soul. Someone who's a rebel heart. An underdog at times. But more importantly, the hero part that has been bestowed upon you. Not to mention it does make you a bit charming and highlights your handsomeness." said Rarity putting her hand to her mouth while forming some red on her cheeks.
"Huh? I never knew that a piece of fabric had so much to offer," said Storm.
For the boy was now thinking back to when he went to Twilight's planet and how she had him change into some new clothes as she told him it was a way to express how one feels without saying words. With Rarity putting it into perspective, he understood what the princess was trying to tell him.
"But back to my story. I had all but given up on my dreams. So, I decided for my final farewell, that I would pour my heart and soul into a dress that would be featured in the show. After that, I would give it up. I had finished packing up my stuff and was prepared to throw it all in the trash. But I was approached by someone who entered my small shop. That was none other than Padme. Turns out she liked what I made and was willing to pay for it. She even went one step further and offered me a job as her personal fashion designer. I can't begin to express how happy I was."
"Yeah, Padme has that effect on people. Even in people's darkest moments, she can be able to shine just a little bit of light to give hope. That's why I'm glad to have her as a friend." smiled Storm.
"Once I was given the job, I was put to work on creating different outfits for her to wear. And soon, people started to notice the outfits Padme was wearing. They asked her where they got such wonderful clothes, she gave credit to me. And from there my small little shop grew. Now it's one of the busiest places where you can expect to find clothing. But of course, I want to expand. Maybe find new places in the galaxy where I can flourish my business. You probably think that's a stupid dream, don't you?"
"Not at all. Given how passionate you are about fashion and designing clothes, I wouldn't expect anything less. It suits you. No pun intended." stated Storm as Rarity could help but giggle at the boy making a joke unintentionally.
She was shocked to find the Jedi she was fascinated with, was supportive of her dream, despite them not knowing each other that much.
"Well, what about you?" asked the girl.
"Well, I'm a Jedi. As you can see, my role is to be directly involved in the war. Fighting on the front lines, trying my best to keep the peace. It takes its toll on you, both physically and mentally. No joke. But at the end of the day, I can't rest. Not until everything is restored to balance and harmony is once again filled throughout the galaxy." said Storm.
"The way you make it sound, it seems like you're trying to save the galaxy from total destruction," joked the fashionista.
"In a way, I guess that's true. But... I'm anything but a hero. I'm just a simple Jedi trying to do my part. Especially, since I have no family."
"I'm sorry to hear that. I didn't know that," said Rarity reaching her hand over to Storm's as the boy didn't bother to swat it away.
"It's alright. I've come to accept it. Besides, I've gained a lot of friends. Ones that I'm glad are a part of my life. And I guess... I just added another one." smiled Storm while looking at Rarity.
"I'm honored to be your friend," smiled the girl while looking at her crush.
The two teens stared at each other as they held their smiles. At that moment, Storm lifted his hand and brought it up to grab the side of Rarity's face. The girl thought the boy was making a move as she prepared herself. She started to lean in closer and was about to close her eye when...
"Put your head down!" whispered Storm as he quickly slammed the girl's head down while he did as well. A few moments passed as their heads returned upwards.
Rarity was about to say some choice words about the Jedi touching her hair and being forceful with her. That was until he gestured for her to be quiet as he shifted his eyes. The fashionista was confused as she then looked in the direction of the boy's eyes shifting as she now knew what he was saying. The person who walked in was none other than Clovis as he had sat at the table to meet with Padme.
"It's been good to see you again, Clovis. I didn't realize how lonely I was... until tonight."
"Perhaps, I can do more to ease your loneliness once I return from Cato Neimoida."
"Oh, you're taking a pleasure trip?" asked Padme.
"Hardly. I'm going there to put the fear of Scipio in those overgrown Trade Federation grubs. You know how they are." said Clovis. "They love to borrow money from the Banking Clan, but they hate to pay it back."
"Maybe you can say a few words on my behalf," chuckled Padme. "I'm on the Holonet with the Neimoidians every day, asking for trade concessions, but I can't ever seem to make progress."
"I've got an idea. Come with me to Cato Neimoida. Speak to them in person. I have leverage from the Banking Clan. You have diplomatic contacts. We can help each other." said Clovis.
"Are you inviting me for political reasons, or... because you want us to become friends again?" asked the Senator with a hint of flirtiness in her voice.
"Both, of course. Although, I'm far more interested in your friendship than your politics," responded Clovis with the same amount of flirtiness.
"In that case, I'll be happy to go with you," smiled Padme. "It'll be like... old times."
"On the contrary," chuckled Clovis, "I hope it'll be much better than old times."
"Oh, he's a smooth one. I think Padme found the right man to be a potential husband," said Rarity as she heard the playful tone that both Senators exchanged between each other. She was unaware of her friend's secret as she was starting to think of some ideas of dresses for Padme to wear when it came to her wedding.
"I doubt that," was all Storm said as he knew Padme's secret.
Soon the two Senators ended their night as Clovis left. Once he was gone, Padme approached her friends' table as they confirmed they heard everything. With that, the girls left to prepare for when they would leave in the morning. As for Storm, he had to report to the Jedi Council what was discussed. He did thank Rarity for a nice suit and a nice hangout as he handed the clothing back to her. With that, he said goodbye as he informed the Jedi Masters what he overheard.
The morning came as there was a ship preparing to leave. It was the ship that was to take Clovis and Padme to Cato Neimoida. Accompanying them were 3P0 and R2 as they boarded the ship. As well as Rarity as Clovis allowed Padme's friend to join them since he didn't see any issue. However, the biggest thing was the pilots that would be flying the ship. Turns out that the Jedi had instructed Anakin and Storm to go undercover while they traveled with the Senator to their destination. Though initially it was just supposed to be Anakin but given how he was acting about Padme going undercover and how well Storm reported the dinner from last night. They informed the boy to keep Anakin in check to not blow the mission.
The Jedi Knights were shown in their pilot disguises as they carried some luggage in their hands. They were about to climb the ramp with Padme when they saw someone approaching them.
"Senator Clovis."
"Padme. You look exquisite," said Clovis as he approached the girl and kissed her on both of her cheeks.
Padme looked behind Clovis as there stood Anakin seeing this interaction as anger and fury, not to mention, jealousy was shown on his face. Storm quickly put his hand in front of his friend while giving him a look that said they had to remain undercover. Padme saw what Storm was doing as she too gave the same look to her husband as Anakin calmed down a bit. Soon they all boarded the ship.
"If you get tired, you can rest your head on my shoulder," said Clovis.
"Ugg," said Storm as he gagged at the pickup line that the Senator tried to use on Padme.
Anakin had a different reaction to that as he cut in the middle of the two.
"Allow me, my lady," said Anakin as he pulled down the safety bar of the first seat and then pulled down the second one. "Oh, and this one's broken. Too bad." The Jedi Knight deliberately broke the safety bar of the seat next to Padme's so that the Clovis would have to sit in another chair that wasn't next to his wife.
The Jedi Knight smiled sheepishly as Storm approached him.
"Pardon us, Senators. Come on, Captain. We need to remember the mission." said Storm as he gritted his teeth at his pal to get the message across as he lead him away. He did give a hard elbow strike to the back of Anakin's head as Padme just simply shook her head at how her husband was acting.
"We're ready for takeoff, Captain," said Captain Typho as Anakin rushed into the pilot's seat with Storm following behind.
"Hmm, all I have to do is fly the ship," said Anakin trying to calm himself.
"And try not to crash like you always do," snickered Storm as his friend glared at him to which he smiled.
The ship began to take off as they were starting to leave Coruscant. In the hangar, Clovis was shown about to kiss Padme's cheek once more as the girl simply looked away with a smile. Rarity was sitting across from her friend as she was enjoying this. Anakin saw this through the ship's camera as he quickly jerked the ship so that Clovis fell and hit the floor. The Jedi Knight had a smile on his face as he looked at his pal.
"Alright, I'll let that one slide," stated Storm as he could tell the Clovis was intentionally trying to kiss Padme.
Anakin smiled as he jerked the ship once more. He managed to fling Clovis into a seat as the safety bars locked in the two Senators as they sat seats apart from each other.
"Blast it," said Clovis to which Padme couldn't help but smile.
"Alright, now you're just showing off," said Storm as he was impressed by how Anakin was able to do that. He did smile as the pair of friends were now heading towards their destination.
The trip lasted a while as the ship exited from hyperspace. They approached a planet, and soon entered its atmosphere. The ship arrived at Cato Neimoida as they touched down on a platform. The ramp extended as out walked 3P0, Rarity, Padme, and Clovis. For Anakin and Storm, they stayed behind a bit on the ship as the former took off his helmet.
"Senator Amidala, an unexpected privilege," said Lott Dod as he greeted them.
"Senator Dod, please forgive me for arriving unannounced."
"Oh, no. Always a pleasure to see you, my dear. I hope you and I can make a fresh start."
"I came here with the very same hope. I believe in second chances," said Padme while looking at Clovis.
"So do I, Senator. So do I," stated Lott Dod as he began to lead them inside.
"My servants will see you to your room," said Lott Dod to the girls. "Clovis and I have some business to discuss."
The girls were brought to a room that was beautifully decorated. Rarity wasted no time lying on the bed as she let out a sigh.
"I hope you will be comfortable here," said one of the servants.
"Oh, most certainly. Though I do request some sparkling water. I'm quite parched from the trip." stated Rarity putting on her drama queen voice as one of the servants went to get a drink for the fashionista.
Meanwhile, Lott Dod was talking with Clovis as in front of them was a hologram of a droid factory.
"This investment by the Banking Clan will create unimaginable new war profits, the largest droid factory ever built," stated Clovis.
"As long as the Republic doesn't find out. You should have never brought a member of the Senate here," exclaimed Lott Dod.
Back with the girls...
"3P0, after that long trip, I think I need a walk," said the Senator as she began to walk towards the door.
"That could prove interesting," responded the protocol droid.
"Rarity, I'll be back. Just make sure everything is ready," said Padme with a hidden tone in her voice to her friend.
"Of course," said the girl with a small wink.
Padme then exited the room as she began to walk along the halls. In the room with Lott Dod, he was continuing to talk with Clovis as another person was present who made some sounds.
"I agree, Lord Poggle. For all the risks we're taking, we should be getting a greater share of the profits," stated Lott Dod.
"Are you suggesting we change the terms of our agreement? No. A deal is a deal. I'd hate for something to happen to you."
"You forget yourself, Clovis. You cannot threaten me on my own planet," said Lott Dod.
"This is hardly your planet anymore, not since you signed your holdings over to the Banking Clan in return for a stake in this new droid factory," replied Clovis.
"We have company. The hologram," said Lott Dod as he saw Padme coming into view.
Clovis quickly pushed a button to get rid of the image as he turned around to meet the Senator.
"Padme. What are you doing here?"
"Oh, I'm sorry to intrude. I... I was lonely, so I came looking for you, and..."
"My dear, I'll give you a proper tour later. Now let me take you back to your room so you can get dressed for dinner," smiled Clovis as he grabbed Padme's hand while the others saw this. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll see you at dinner."
Clovis addressed Lott Dod before he turned to escort Padme back to her room. Poggle voiced his concern.
"How do you think I feel? I hate the thought of answering to Clovis. But perhaps we won't have to, now that we've finally found his weakness." stated Lott Dod. "What if we were to poison Senator Amidala? I think Clovis would do anything to save her. And only we would have the antidote."
The boys had kept themselves busy since the girls entered. They were currently doing routine maintenance on the ship so that it wouldn't have any problems taking off. Anakin stopped to look at the palace as he was starting to get concerned for his wife. R2 gave a beep that caught the Jedi Knight's attention as he pulled out a ration bar.
"No, thanks, R2. I'm not hungry."
"Well, I am!" said Storm as he rolled out from under the ship. He dusted his hands as he grabbed the bar from the droid and began to munch on it. "No sense in wasting food." stated the Jedi Knight with a mouthful while petting the head of the droid.
"As soon as Senator Amidala finds something, she's gonna signal me to come in," replied Anakin. Even then, the boy was still concerned as he looked back at the building.
Inside the main room, Clovis was shown drinking. At that moment, he turned toward the stairway as there stood Rarity. The fashionista then stepped to the side as there stood Padme. The girl had done her magic once again as the Senator was standing in a beautiful dress that made her drop-dead gorgeous. Safe to say, everyone was enamored by the Senator and the outfit she wore as Rarity had outdone herself yet again. Lott Dod then came into the room, and he grabbed a cup.
"Senator, as my honored guest, please share this drink with me," stated the Neimoidian as he brought it to his lips and drank. "A toast to our new friendship." He managed to smear the rim of the drink where Padme's lips would touch.
"Of course," said Padme trying to appease him. She grabbed the cup and brought it to her lips as they touched the poison. She then gave it back to the Neimoidian.
"Come, Senator. Everyone is eager to meet you," stated Lott Dod as he lead everyone to have dinner.
Once dinner was finished, the servants began to take the dishes from the guests.
"What a wonderful meal! My compliments to the droid," said Clovis as the other officials got up and left.
Clovis, Rarity, and Padme began to stand up as the latter stumbled a bit.
"Padme!" stated Rarity as she put her hand on her friend's shoulder.
"Are you feeling all right?" asked Clovis.
Padme put a hand to her forehead as she felt herself burning up a bit. She then let out a cough.
"I'm fine. I... stood up too fast."
"It has been a very long day. Perhaps we should retire to the guest quarters?" stated 3P0.
"Unless you'd like a tour of the palace," suggested Clovis. "It's truly worth seeing."
"A tour sounds perfect," said Padme.
"You're dismissed for the night," said Clovis to 3P0.
"Are you absolutely sure?" asked the droid to his lady.
"Yes. I'm sure," said Padme to the droid. "Rarity?"
"Of course," responded the fashionista.
Padme then hooked her arm around Clovis as he began to lead the Senator on the tour. Meanwhile, the pair decided to return to the guest bedroom to wait for their friend. They soon made it back to the room as they walked through the doors.
"Well, really. My service is not required for the rest of the evening," said 3P0 to Rarity.
"Padme is smart getting some alone time with him. She knows how to play the romance game," said Rarity.
"Why isn't Padme with you two?" asked Anakin.
The pair was surprised to see the Jedi Knight as he snuck his way to the bedroom. He was worried about how long his wife was taking. Soon out on the balcony, there was Storm who had followed his friend as he needed to make sure that he didn't do anything that could blow the mission.
"What I'd miss?" asked the boy as he climbed over the railing to catch some breaths.
"She's with Senator Clovis," responded 3P0 to Anakin.
"He offered her a private tour of the palace. Truly a sly one to get some alone time with Padme," giggled Rarity as Anakin stood in front of her.
"And you two let her go off with him?" stated Anakin with his voice being a bit direct.
"I did try to warn her," said 3P0 to his maker.
"Calm down, Anakin. Remember the mission," stated Storm as he entered the room. He also had to make sure not to blow their secret given that Rarity was present. "Our best bet is to wait till she returns. Once she does that, we blow this joint."
With Padme, she was being given a tour of the place by Clovis. They entered the library from before.
"I'm waiting for my business venture to start. I'm doing some private investing with guaranteed returns," said Clovis.
"Oh, could you bring me something to drink?" asked Padme as she put her hand to her forehead. "I'm so thirsty of all sudden, and my head is pounding."
"Oh, you poor thing. It's the climate change. I'll be right back." said Clovis as he went to fetch some water.
Padme was going to use some sort of excuse to get Clovis out of the room. So with her sudden headache, it proved to be the perfect excuse. Though, her head was pounding. Which meant she had a limited time before he would return. The Senator now began to walk towards the table from earlier that she noticed had the hologram. She put her small purse on the table as she saw the touch screen.
"Display hologram," stated Padme.
"Pass code required," spoke the A.I.
"Scipio. Banking Clan. Senator Clovis. Baron Rush Clovis. Rush."
The Senator was saying all the things she thought could be the password, but none of them gave a response. She then thought of something as it made her scoff a bit.
"Padme?"
"Pass code accepted."
The Senator rolled her eyes at how Clovis was infatuated with her that she was the password to access the disk. Of course, if Anakin had something secret that was only accessed by a password and he chose her name as it. She couldn't help but find it cute and a bit romantic at the same time.
Anyways, the hologram then came online. It displayed for the Senator to see as she saw the droid factory.
"Tactical coordinates for Count Dooku's new droid foundry. And Clovis and the Banking Clan are behind it. The Jedi Council has to see this evidence." Padme then reached into her purse as she pulled out her comlink, and pushed a button.
"Finally! Got to go," said Anakin as he was sitting in a chair and got up.
"Well, it seems no one wants my company tonight," scoffed 3P0.
"Be careful, Anakin."
"I'll be fine, Storm. You get these two down to the ship. Once I have the info and Padme, we'll meet up with you." said the Jedi Knight to his plan as he left the room.
"So, how are we going to get down?" asked Rarity.
"Well, I have a solution," stated Storm as he approached Rarity and swept her off her feet as he held her in his arms bridal style. "Hope you don't mind, Rares. Figured I'd take you on a special trip."
"By all means," said Rarity as she blushed a bit at the boy holding her.
"I'll be back in a few moments, 3P0," stated the Jedi as he approached the balcony.
He took a deep breath and then used his Jedi powers to jump into the air. Storm landed as he was now sliding down the palace walls. All the while, Rarity held him tight to avoid falling. She soon opened her eye as the gentle wind was blowing in her face. It made the girl smile and laugh as she was enjoying this small rush of adrenaline. She looked at Storm as the boy was concentrating on steering them while sliding. He too had a smile on his face. The girl closed her eyes as she buried her head into his chest as she enjoyed this somewhat magical moment.
The pair touched down as Storm stood up.
"Alright, the ride's over. Hope that didn't scare you," stated Storm to the girl in his hands.
"On the contrary, I quite enjoyed it," smiled Rarity while having some red form on her cheeks. Storm then put her down on the floor.
While the pair was sliding down to the ship, another series of events were occurring at the same time. Padme had managed to secure the disk as she grabbed it. At that moment, the doors to the library were heard.
"Still dying of thirst?" asked Clovis as he had a drink in his hand.
Padme had the disk in her left hand as she hid it behind her back. She approached her colleague and took the drink in her right hand. She brought it up to her lips as the cool refreshing liquid hit her taste senses. The girl let out a sigh of relief.
"That tastes so good. I guess I was just thirsty."
"Come, Padme. Give me your hand," gestured Clovis as the Senator gripped the disk behind her back.
She then thought of a plan. The Senator lunged forward to embrace Clovis as it allowed her to keep the disk hidden.
"You're so good to me, Clovis. I don't deserve your kindness," said Padme into his ear.
"It's nice to hear you say that," responded Clovis.
At that moment, Anakin came into the library as he stood in the doorway. The Jedi Knight saw his wife and her friend as she had her arms wrapped around him. The anger was on his face as without Storm there to keep his temper in check, Anakin felt his hands starting to clench. He was about to let his anger and fury take over when Padme spoke and noticed her husband standing there watching them.
"I've been waiting for this moment all night," said Padme as she signaled using her left hand to show her husband she had the disk and was keeping it hidden.
She then dropped it as Anakin put his hand out. He managed to grab the disk using the Force and reeled it in. He now had it as he stood there for a few moments.
"Your heart is racing," said Clovis.
"Because of you," chuckled Padme.
"I wasn't sure you still had feelings for me. But now..." said Clovis with a smile.
Anakin now began to leave. Padme saw her husband leave as inside she let out a sigh of relief.
"I would have said something earlier, but we were in the middle of our official duties, and duty comes first, no matter... no matter how we feel."
"Padme, what's wrong?" stated Clovis as the girl fainted in his arms.
Anakin had made it back to the ship just as Storm was putting Rarity to the ground. The boy saw his friend return, and he was glad to see he had the disk.
"Take good care of this, R2," said Anakin as he bent down to hand over the disk to the droid.
"And Padme?" asked Rarity.
"Get the ship ready for takeoff," said Anakin to Storm.
Clovis had managed to bring Padme back to her room as 3P0 was still there.
"Stay with her. I'll go get a medical droid."
"An excellent idea. I'm afraid this situation is quite beyond my capacity," replied 3P0.
Down at the ship, R2 let out a beep.
"If I'm not here in five minutes, leave without me."
"What?" said Storm as he looked at his friend.
"No matter what happens, the Council has to see this hologram," stated Anakin as he turned towards the palace.
"Anakin, wait!!" shouted the Jedi Knight to his pal, but he was already booking it.
The boy let out a sigh as he felt like Anakin was letting his personal feelings about Clovis and Padme get in the way of the mission. He then escorted Rarity on board as he began to prepare their ship.
"I know her symptoms. She's been poisoned!" stated Clovis to Lott Dod.
"What do you mean?"
"She could die!"
"Get a hold of yourself, Senator. She is a Republic spy," said Lott Dod as he knew what Padme's true intentions were for coming here.
"What? No," responded Clovis in disbelief.
Anakin had entered the palace as he was now sneaking in between corners. He was making his way towards the guest room to retrieve his wife. Clovis had made it to the library as he noticed Padme's purse she left behind on the table. He opened it up as he spoke the password to the table.
"Pass code 'Padme'."
"No hologram is available," spoke the A.I.
Clovis then looked at the disk slot and saw it was empty.
"She did steal it!" growled Clovis as he threw the purse onto the floor in anger.
Padme opened her eyes as she saw 3P0 and a medical droid. At that moment, Clovis made his presence known.
"Leave us," he stated to the robots as they moved from the Senator's bed while he approached Padme's bedside with the medical droid leaving.
"I was just in the library. The hologram disk is gone. I see now why you renewed our friendship, so you could spy on me and steal from me." said Clovis in a sad tone.
"I did it for the Republic," stated Padme before letting out a sigh. "I didn't want to believe that you were involved with the Separatists. But you are. You're a traitor." She raised her hand, which Clovis gripped with both of his.
"Where is the disk you stole?" demanded Clovis.
"It's on its way to the Senate. Your scheme is finished," said Padme.
"Get away from her!" said a voice. It was none other than Anakin as he appeared in the doorway. "If you want to live."
He then rushed in and to his wife's side as he looked at her.
"Padme."
"How dare you speak to her like that to me?" said Clovis to Anakin as he was still in his pilot disguise. "I'm a Senator."
"What's wrong with her?" asked Anakin.
"Lott Dod poisoned her. She's dying."
That response got Anakin to be even more furious. He soon put it to the side as he was more concerned for his wife's safety and to not blow his cover.
"I'll take her to the doctors on Coruscant."
"There's not enough time for that. Lott Dod must have an antidote," said Clovis putting his hand on Anakin as the Jedi Knight swatted it away and stood up to glare. "She's stolen a very valuable disk from me. Return it, and I'll get the antidote from Lott Dod."
"I prefer to negotiate with Lott Dod in person," stated Anakin.
"No! He cannot be told..."
"What? That you lost disk?" stated Anakin with a chuckle. "I'm sure he'd be very interested in hearing all about this."
"He might kill me if he finds out. But still, it's her life that I worry about. She must be saved because I love her." stated Clovis.
"In that case, I suggest you help us get back to the Senator's ship before Lott Dod finds anything out," said Anakin as he scooped up Padme into his arms.
"Come with me, quickly!" said Clovis as he began to lead Anakin and 3P0.
"We must make haste!" said Clovis as they made it to the main room and were walking down the flight of stairs. They soon saw a group approaching them.
"What is going on, Clovis?" said Lott Dod as he was at the bottom of the staircase.
They continued to climb down the stairs as Anakin turned his head to keep his face hidden.
"I'm sorry, Lott. Senator Amidala is very ill, and we're taking her back to her ship," responded Clovis.
"If Senator Amidala is ill, she should not be moved," stated Lott Dod.
"I've contacted the authorities on Naboo. They thought it best to take her back to Coruscant. The doctors there are better equipped." stated Clovis.
"You cannot leave!" stated Lott Dod.
Clovis had enough of this charade as he pulled out a blaster and aimed it at Lott.
"Give me the antidote, or you're dead!" threatened the Senator.
"You'll pay for this. Give Clovis the antidote."
One of the Lott's men then presented 3P0 with the serum and syringe.
"Your kindness is much appreciated, Senator," remarked Clovis. "Take her, quickly."
Anakin gave a nod as he began to walk out of the palace with 3P0.
"Have you lost your mind?" shouted Lott.
Clovis glared at him as he chased after them. Anakin and 3P0 had just climbed the ramp and were about to leave.
"Wait. Now give me back my disk!" demanded Clovis as the ramp started to fold up.
"Don't worry, Clovis. It's good to know you have a heart. I wish I could give you the disk, but I have a lot of faith in your survival skills." mocked Anakin with a smile as the ramp was sealed shut.
The Jedi Knight brought Padme to the front of the ship as Storm was in the driver's seat all ready to go. He saw his friend enter, and he was shocked to see Padme in his Anakin's arms.
"What happened to her?!!"
"Poisoned. Don't worry, we got the cure," answered Anakin to his pal. "Where's that medicine, 3P0?"
The droid handed the antidote to Anakin as the Jedi Knight injected it into his wife. Storm then hit the buttons as he began to take off. The ship zoomed away as Clovis watched them leave.
"I'm sorry."
"What for?" asked Anakin to his wife. "We got away, and we have the hologram. The Jedi will use that information to destroy Count Dooku's foundry. Your mission was a success."
"But I made you doubt me," replied Padme.
"Never," smiled Anakin.
"What did I tell?" stated Storm as he put the ship on autopilot and got up to where his friends were. "Padme only has eyes for one boy in her life. And that's you, bud." The Jedi Knight put his hand on Anakin's shoulder to produce a smile on both of them.
"Heh, you should have listened to Storm," chuckled Padme as she too joined in with a smile.
"Clovis, we need to talk," said Lott as droids were now present.
The Senator had been watching the ship until it was out of range. He then turned as he began to make his way to where Lott was as they had some rather unfortunate business to discuss.
On their way back to Coruscant, Storm entered the back of the ship. He saw Rarity safety in her seat as the girl had fallen asleep. He smiled as he approached her and bent to a knee. He saw the fashionista sleeping gracefully as it seemed her beauty was highlighted even more. He swept away a strand of hair from her face as he smiled. The Jedi Knight then began to think as he was focusing on certain individuals.
Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Sunset Shimmer, and Twilight Sparkle. All of them, I've met. Even as annoying and weird as Pinkie is. Still, what does it mean?
The Jedi Knight was now truly thinking about each of the individuals he named and how he had somewhat of a connection with each one of them. Twilight was his partner, Sunset was his enemy, and so on with the others. Still, what did it mean?