Fight or Flight

The Reveal

As I step off the ship, I immediately witness the breathtaking beauty around me. Trees outline the city, the architecture I can see from a distance, and everything is lush and green. But even so, the sense of danger has not left our small group. "How far to the Gungans?" Anakin asks for the tenth time already.

"For the last time, it's not that far away!" Jehsak rolls his eyes. I bite back a laugh as I feel his pain. "Now come on, we have to travel in the middle. We're the 'younger' ones." The two groan and head to the middle of the group. Qui-Gon Jinn heads up the front and I head up the rear with Obi-Wan.

"So...what's it like being a Jedi master?"

"You know, I honestly can't say. It's like a great responsibility is put on your shoulders and suddenly the weight of the galaxy rests in your hands! It's exhausting but rewarding too. You get to do things that Jedi Knights cannot."

"But Jedi Knight get to do things Jedi Masters cannot."

"I suppose I don't know, since I skipped the level of Jedi Knight."

"How? Most people I know HAVE to be a Jedi Knight first."

"Well, I'm no ordinary Jedi. The dreams I have..."

"The one this morning. Are you one of the foreseer's?" My eyes go wide and Obi-Wan cracks into a smirk when he sees my facial expression. "I'll take that as a yes!"

"Don't tell anyone. Please. It's something I have to keep quiet. People, dangerous people, they are after me."

"Of course." The rest of the way is small talk between Kenobi and I. "And then my master was like..." The party suddenly comes to a halt.

"We're here." I take a deep breath and travel to the front, standing near Sabe. She appears calm and collected, but the Force waves off of her tell a different story. "Easy, milady. Do not show fear nor let fear control you." Sabe sends me a look of gratitude and I nod silently. We wait for a few moments until the leader of the Gungans, Boss Nass, stands in front of us. The rest of his subjects surround our small group. I notice Jehsak looking anxious and send him a mind message. Easy, Jehsak. They won't hurt us they are simply afraid of the Queen. She can do them much harm or much good. Plus, I doubt they have seen us humans.

"Your greatness, Boss Nass, leader of the Gungan tribe. I have come to ask for aid against the Trade Federation."

"Hmmm. Mesa no happy about dis. Naboo and Gungan are not friends. Why would I help you against the Trade Federation? They leave us alone."

"I...I..."

"I am Padme Amidala, Queen of Naboo." Padme speaks up from beside her look-alike. Boss Nass looks thoroughly confused.

"A handmaiden is the queen of the Naboo?"

"I am rightfully the Queen. The one who looks like the queen is my handmaiden, Sabe. She acts as me, so I am protected from those in the Trade Federation. These people are after my life because I want to protect my planet and you. Dangerous times are upon us. Day after day, droid armies pour into the streets of my home planet! It won't be long before they are sabotaging your land."

"You are sure of this? Why you bring Jedi?"

"We are her protectors!" Anakin speaks up. Jehsak facepalms.

"If we help you, the Jedi will not harm us?" Padme turns to me.

"We will not harm you. We are here to protect the Queen and restore peace to this planet. That is all." I reply.