Morning After

Jaden walked beside Padmé down the corridor of the Senate medical wing, each step echoing off the walls. Senate Guards flanked them at a respectful distance, watching for any sign of trouble. The tension still hadn't left Jaden's mind. His eyes kept drifting to the tracking bracelet on his wrist, he didn't like it much but it beat a cell. Beside him, Padmé moved slowly, her hand gingerly touching the spot on her side where she had been stabbed mere minutes before. She felt as if she could still feel the hole in her side.

As they reached the end of the hall, two med-droids were waiting. A tall, slender droid stepped forward in a smooth motion. "Lady Amidala," it said in a neutral, synthesized voice. "We'll perform a final scan to confirm your injuries are fully healed. Please follow me."

Padmé nodded. "Of course." She glanced at Jaden. "You can wait here if you like. It shouldn't take long."

He gave her a small nod, crossing his arms over his chest. Once she stepped into the adjoining examination alcove, the doors slid shut, leaving him outside with a single guard standing at attention. Jaden cast a look around the corridor, The overhead lights were bright, almost unnaturally so, reflecting off the spotless floor. He took a slow breath, letting the medical smells of antiseptic fill his senses.

But his thoughts were anything but calm. The attack in the courtroom played over and over in his head. One moment, the judges declared he would not be locked up; the next, Padmé was bleeding. He replayed every frame in his memory—he saw the gavel come down, heard the murmur in the gallery, felt a tremor in the Force. But he couldn't pinpoint who or what had delivered the wound. She had just been... stabbed. Out of nowhere.

The possibility of illusions or advanced technology flickered through his mind, but he had no solid evidence. He only knew that no one else seemed to have seen an attacker. Many had looked confused or horrified, but not suspicious. Except... Collan Eislo, the prosecution's lead. Jaden had caught a glimpse of him afterward, arms folded, an odd look crossing his face. It wasn't fear or concern. It was almost satisfaction. But was he reading too much into that moment? Perhaps Eislo was just smug that things had gone poorly for her. Still, the feeling had wormed its way into Jaden's thoughts, refusing to let go.

He clenched his fists, recalling Eislo's accusations during the hearing: that Jaden was a killer, a manipulator, possibly even a Sith. He'd gone for the jugular, painting Jaden as dangerous enough to be locked away immediately. Could he also have orchestrated some bizarre plan to hurt Padmé in order to sabotage the verdict? If so, he had done an expert job of covering his tracks. Jaden told himself that it could be coincidence, that many people disliked him or wanted him gone. Still, Eislo's face hovered in his mind.

A hiss signaled the opening alcove door. The med-droid emerged first, rotating its head unit toward Jaden. "The senator is in excellent condition."

Padmé followed, offering Jaden a reassuring half-smile. "All clear," she said softly.

He nodded, forcing a lighter tone into his voice. "Good."

She lifted a brow, noticing his tension. "You alright?"

Jaden hesitated, then shrugged. "Just... thinking about everything that happened."

Padmé gave him a sympathetic look but didn't push. "Let's get out of here. A bunch of people are probably waiting to see if we're both okay."

Sure enough, once they reached the main lobby of the medical wing, a group of familiar faces stood clustered near the exit. At the forefront was Aubrie, who caught sight of Jaden almost immediately and bounded over, her eyes wide with relief. "You're safe," Aubrie breathed, throwing her arms around Jaden's middle before he could react. She hugged him fiercely, face pressed against his chest. "I was so worried! Are you okay?"

Jaden gently put a hand on her back. "I'm fine," he said quietly, though the sudden closeness made him a little self-conscious. He glanced over her head at the others. Scout and Zule lingered nearby, looking visibly relieved. Master Leska was also present, standing a pace behind them with a calm demeanor. Aubrie pulled back just enough to look up at Jaden, her cheeks flushed. She didn't release him entirely. "We heard you won the hearing," she said, voice a bit higher than usual.

Jaden gave a crooked smile, tapping the bracelet on his wrist. "Yes and no. I'm not locked up, but I do have to stay with Padmè."

Aubrie exhaled. "I'll take that over you being in a cell." She squeezed his arm once more, as though not wanting to let go, then glanced at Padmé. "We're so sorry we missed it. Our shuttle had an engine failure. By the time we found a backup, it was practically over." Aubrie's eyes flicked back to Jaden, brimming with unspoken worry.

Padmé gave a tired smile. "It's alright. We managed just fine without you thanks to Master Fay. Although I'm sure it would've been nice to have familiar faces in the crowd."

Zule stepped forward, eyeing Padmé carefully. "We heard you were attacked. Are you...?" Her gaze dipped to Padmé's side, but she stopped short of finishing the question.

Padmé nodded. "I'm healed, thanks to Jaden. The med-droids say I'm good as new."

Scout stood a half-step behind Zule, scanning Jaden up and down. "Glad you're both okay. This whole situation has been b crazy."

A Senate Guard approached and bowed slightly to Padmé. "My Lady, your shuttle is prepared outside. Security recommends leaving as soon as possible."

Padmé gave him a nod. "Then let's go." She shot a glance at Jaden. "If you don't mind staying with me, as ordered?"

Jaden gave a half-shrug. "Not like I have much choice," he said, though his tone was wry rather than resentful.

Master Leska, noticing the approach of more reporters in the corridor, turned to the others. "We'll regroup at the Temple. I still have a report to make. Aubrie, Scout, Zule, you're with me."

Aubrie immediately looked torn. Her eyes darted to Jaden. "I... I can stay if you need me to—"

Master Leska gently interjected, "Aubrie, we should go. The Temple expects a debrief, and they want everyone who's been off-world or involved in this case to finish their sessions with the healer."

Aubrie bit her lip, her gaze lingering on Jaden. She hugged him again, more tightly this time. "I don't want to leave you," she whispered, her face half-hidden against his chest.

Jaden returned the hug, feeling her tremble slightly. "I'll be fine," he assured her. "Promise."

She nodded slowly, stepping back with reluctance. "Call me if anything else happens. If you need anything—"

Padmé, keenly observing the moment, gave the younger woman a soft smile. "You'll see him again soon," she said in a gentle tone.

Master Leska placed a guiding hand on Aubrie's shoulder, prompting her to move on. Zule gave Jaden a short nod, while Scout tossed him a tiny wave. Then the three of them followed Leska down the corridor, heading for another shuttle back to the Temple. Jaden watched them go, catching one last look of Aubrie turning her head for a final glance before disappearing around the corner.

Nearby, Master Fay stood patiently. She had arrived earlier. Now that everything was resolved for the moment, she looked ready to depart as well. "I should return to the Temple," Fay said quietly, inclining her head toward Padmé. "I'd like to maintain open communication with both the Council and yourself, regarding Jaden's situation."

Padmé nodded, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Of course, Master Fay. Thank you for your support today."

Fay gave Jaden a thoughtful look but didn't articulate whatever observations she might have had. Instead, she simply said, "If you need guidance, you know where to find me."

Jaden dipped his head in acknowledgment. "Thanks. For everything."

With that, Fay left. Shortly afterward, the guard led Jaden and Padmé through a winding route designed to avoid the worst of the press. They boarded a waiting shuttle, which hummed softly before lifting off into the busy Coruscant skylanes. The flight was quiet, the city's glow passing by in a kaleidoscope of colors and silhouettes. Padmé rubbed the place on her torso where the wound had been, thoughtful. Jaden looked on, still grappling with unanswered questions—chief among them, who stabbed her and how. Images of Collan Eislo kept flickering in his mind, but he told himself he lacked proof. For now, he'd have to keep that suspicion to himself.

Eventually, they reached Padmé's private landing platform, and the shuttle set down gently. Droids and guards bustled about, ensuring the area was secure. Padmé gestured for Jaden to follow her into the apartment. "Welcome to your... temporary home," Padmé quipped, managing a wry smile as she noted the tracking bracelet. "The court says you stay with me until the formal trial."

Jaden gave a short nod, glancing at the plush furniture and the tall windows overlooking the city. "Beats a prison cell."

She gestured toward a hallway. "There's a guest room. You can settle in there. I'm sure you're exhausted. I know I am."

He hesitated, about to say something, but then thought better of it. "Sure. Thanks."

As Padmé disappeared into another room, presumably to change or rest, Jaden removed his boots and took a seat on the nearest couch, running a hand through his hair. It had been a whirlwind of a day. He flexed his wrist, staring down at the bracelet. Despite the victory in court, the swirling sense of danger hadn't faded. The enemy that stabbed Padmé was out there. And while everyone else seemed more focused on the bizarre circumstances, Jaden couldn't shake the feeling that Collan Eislo had a role in it. Was it just paranoia? Or did the prosecutor truly have means of striking so covertly?

No one else had voiced such suspicion, though. They seemed too relieved by the trial's outcome—and Padmé's survival—to dwell on potential conspiracies. Jaden resolved not to voice it without evidence. He'd look into it himself if he got the chance. For now, he would keep his guard up. He leaned back, letting out a slow breath. At least Padmé was safe for the moment, and the trial was over—this phase of it, anyway. He could live with the court's conditions if it meant avoiding a cell. Still, there was no denying that the day's events had left him with more questions than answers.

...

Jaden woke to find a face hovering just above his. He didn't jolt, but he felt a trace of curiosity. The girl looking down at him had blonde hair that fell a bit past her shoulders, and she held a datapad in trembling hands. When Jaden's eyes opened, she jumped back with a gasp, nearly dropping the device.

"I–I'm sorry for waking you, Mr. Katarn," she said quickly, the words stumbling out. Her voice held a hint of panic.

Jaden sat up. He realized he was still in the living area of Padmé Amidala's apartment. A quick glance at the sofa reminded him of how he must have dozed off there during the night. "It's alright," he said, keeping his tone calm. "You didn't scare me. Is there something you need?"

The girl's cheeks reddened, and she fumbled with the datapad before it slipped from her grip. It clattered to the floor. She scrambled to pick it up, nearly tripping over her own feet in the process. "I–I was sent to ask if you'd like to join Lady Amidala for breakfast," she said in a breathless rush.

Jaden stood, trying not to make her more nervous. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes. "Thanks for letting me know. I'll come along." He gave a small nod, then ran a hand through his hair.

She exhaled and managed a weak smile. "Thank you," she said, still holding the datapad like it might slip again. She turned toward the door, gesturing for him to follow.

They walked through the apartment's hallway. The décor was simple, soft lights, pale walls, a few works of art placed at intervals. Jaden noticed she kept glancing over her shoulder, as though worried she might be bothering him. "Hey," he said quietly, "you don't have to be so nervous. I'm just a guest here."

The girl nodded, but her anxious expression didn't fade at once. "My name is Vaylin," she offered, almost blurting the words. "I'm new on Lady Amidala's staff, and I really don't want to mess up. My mother helped me get this job. I don't want to disappoint her."

They passed a tall window that let in early sunlight. Jaden paused briefly to look at the cityscape below. Speeders moved along the traffic lanes, and a few Guards patrolled a nearby walkway. "Nice to meet you, Vaylin," he said, walking again to catch up. "You're doing fine so far. Really."

She cast him a timid smile. "Thank you," she replied, seeming a bit relieved. "I was told to invite you to breakfast, and I got worried I'd wake you the wrong way or something." She shrugged. "I guess I'm still trying to learn all the protocols."

"It's not a big deal," Jaden said, his voice steady. "I'm not used to any special treatment. I grew up in the lower levels. Formality isn't exactly second nature for me."

Her eyes widened a bit, but she didn't press further. They arrived at a set of double doors that opened to a balcony. A light breeze brushed against them, carrying a mild scent of morning air and city life. The balcony overlooked part of Coruscant's skyline, though it wasn't the highest vantage point Jaden had ever seen. Padmé was seated at a round table near the edge, a few potted plants framing the space. She wore a casual dress of light material that fell around her ankles, with a soft shade of cream that matched the morning glow. Her hair was down, free of elaborate styles, and it cascaded below her shoulders. There was a healthy shine to it, and the sunlight picked out faint highlights as it moved with the breeze. Jaden noticed that Padmé looked striking like this as causal as it was; Jaden didn't much care for outward appearances, but Padmè was incredibly beautiful.

She turned her head, and upon seeing him, a warm smile brightened her face. "Good morning," she said, gesturing for him to sit. "I trust you slept well?"

Jaden nodded, stepping closer. "I did, thank you," he replied. Then he glanced at Vaylin, who lingered by the door. Padmé lifted a hand in a friendly wave. "Thank you, Vaylin. That'll be all."

"Yes, my Lady," the girl said, bowing her head before leaving them alone.

Jaden took the seat next to Padmé, looking over the table. A spread of fruit, bread, and some local breakfast dishes awaited them. He could see that Padmé had gone through the trouble of preparing more than just a quick meal. Padmé picked up her cup and sipped quietly, then placed it down. Her eyes flicked over Jaden's face, as though taking him in. She couldn't entirely hide her thoughts—her mind drifted to how he was more attractive than she first assumed, especially when he gave that slight smile of his. She felt a small rush of embarrassment, considering she was quite a bit older than him. But she kept her composure.

"Help yourself," Padmé encouraged, gesturing to the food. "I wasn't sure what you liked, so I had the droids prepare a little of everything."

Jaden nodded and picked up a small roll, nibbling at it. "Thanks," he said, voice quiet. He took a moment to savor the taste—there was a subtle sweetness he didn't often find in the cheaper bread he was used to.

Padmé leaned forward a bit, resting her elbows on the table. "So... you're free to stay here now. No prison cell, at least." She let a short laugh escape, though she quickly realised it was a little bit of a tasteless joke. "I'm curious about you, Jaden. We haven't had much time to talk. I'd like to know more, if that's okay."

He shrugged. "Not much to tell. I grew up on Coruscant, but way down below. I did a lot of small jobs—moving cargo, chasing bounties, cleaning out some nasty places. Mostly I was just saving credits to get off this world. Then... well, Jabiim happened."

Padmé watched him closely. She could tell he didn't enjoy talking about that part of his past. She didn't want to pry too deep. "Do you mind me asking how old you are?"

Jaden paused, setting his small roll down. "Sixteen, most likely," he said. "It's hard to keep track."

Padmé's cheeks felt warm. She tried not to show the mild shock she had at that number. Thinking about him so intently and then learning he was only sixteen made her feel a twinge of guilt. She kept her face neutral, though, and nodded. "I see," she murmured.

He noticed her slight reaction but said nothing about it. Instead, he gave a polite tilt of his head. "What about you?" he asked, turning the conversation around. "I know you're a senator, or that you used to be."

Padmé let out a small sigh, thinking of her past. "I was elected Queen of Naboo when I was still in my teens. It was a time of trouble for my planet. The Trade Federation blockaded us, and I found myself working with two Jedi Knights who came to negotiate." She glanced down at her hands. "Things got worse, and the Republic bureaucracy was slow to help. So after my term ended as queen, I became a senator, hoping to make a difference on a larger scale."

Jaden listened carefully. "So the Jedi helped you back then?"

She nodded. "Yes. They were kind, and they risked a lot to protect Naboo. That was my first real introduction to galactic politics. I saw how broken it was, but I believed it could be fixed."

"How's Naboo?" Jaden asked, genuine curiosity in his voice. "I've never been, though I've heard it a beautiful place."

Padmé's eyes lit up. "It truly is. Green plains, calm lakes, elegant cities nestled beside waterfalls. It's very different from Coruscant. The pace is slower, the people more connected to nature. We have Gungan settlements underwater and humans living above ground, both parts of the same planet."

Jaden found himself smiling. "That sounds amazing. Maybe someday, if I'm not on trial... I'd like to see it."

Padmé allowed herself a laugh at that. "If all goes well, I'd be happy to show you. You deserve a break after everything that happened on Jabiim."

They talked a bit longer about various topics—his experiences on Jabiim, the war, and her time in the Senate. She spoke about how she often felt frustrated with the endless debates, but still believed in the ideals of the Republic. He listened, nodding in places, occasionally asking short questions. She appreciated his presence, even if there was little input from him. Eventually, as the conversation drifted, Padmé set her cup down and mentioned, "Master Fay contacted me this morning. She said she'd like you to visit the Temple. She mentioned something important, but she didn't go into detail."

Jaden shrugged, finishing off the last bite of the small portion of fruit he'd taken. "Did she say why she wants me there?"

"She didn't," Padmé answered, shaking her head gently. "She only said it was urgent and related to you."

He could guess it had something to do with the strange things she'd said earlier—about his connection to the Force or something off about his mind. Despite the tension, he felt a spark of interest. "I'm up for it," he said simply. "It might be nice to explore the Temple anyway. Didn't have much time last visit before things got... complicated."

Padmé's lips curled in a faint smile. "I'm glad. She's expecting you, so let me know when you plan to leave. I'll have a shuttle ready."

He nodded and placed his napkin down. She observed that he'd only eaten a bit of fruit and a roll. "Are you sure you've had enough?" she asked, looking at the still-full plates.

"I'm used to small meals," he answered, trying not to dwell on memories of the lower levels.

Padmé felt a pang of sympathy, but she kept it hidden. "Alright," she said gently. "I'll remember that for next time." She sipped her drink, then stood up. "I have a friend named Bail who's joining us for dinner tonight. We plan to discuss your upcoming trial. I hope you'll be there."

"Of course," Jaden said, standing as well. He stretched a little, feeling the tension in his shoulders. "I appreciate the heads-up."

Padmé gave him a thoughtful nod. "And I appreciate you keeping an open mind. If you need anything before you go to the Temple, just let Vaylin or me know. The shuttle will be waiting whenever you're ready."

He glanced over the balcony's edge, noticing the morning bustle of Coruscant picking up as air traffic thickened. "Thanks," he said, turning back to Padmé. "I guess I'll head out now. Need to see what Master Fay wants."

She stepped closer, her hands clasped in front of her. There was a moment where she looked at him—really looked—and felt her cheeks warm again, thinking about how she'd been viewing him not too long ago. She shook the thought from her mind, reminding herself of his age. "Be careful, we don't know if the bounty hunters will return," she said quietly, trying to regain that formal air.

Jaden simply nodded, giving her one of those slight smiles that made her heart beat a bit faster. "You too," he replied, then left her standing there on the balcony. He walked back through the apartment, passing the living area where he'd slept. Droids were already tidying up the space, removing any sign that he'd even slept there. He lifted his arm, checking the tracking bracelet. He didn't much like knowing he could be tracked at any moment especially since he'd been attacked already. Yet it wasn't the harsh prison cell he once feared. Glancing around, he saw Vaylin hovering in the hallway, datapad in hand again, apparently finishing some tasks. She looked up when she noticed him, her posture stiff.

"Heading out?" she asked quietly.

He nodded. "I'll be leaving for the Temple soon. Thanks for, uh, waking me up."

Her cheeks tinged pink. "Of course. Let me know if you need any directions or help."

He gave a short thanks, then continued on, stepping into the central hall that led toward the exit. Two Guards stood watch, checking the corridor. They nodded as he approached, and one tapped a console, confirming his authorized movement. Soon, Jaden stepped outside onto the apartment's private landing platform. A small shuttle waited for him, just as Padmé promised. The pilot, dressed in a plain flight uniform, saw him and gave a polite nod. Stepping into the shuttle he heard the pilot switch the engines on before asking where he was headed.

"Take me to the Jedi Temple."

(AN: So we have Jaden meeting Vaylin, an important character for all you fans of the old republic out there and a little bit more development with Padmè. Jaden will be going to the temple next where some long awaited revelations will be revealed and certain people will be leaving the temple.)

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