The next morning, Harry awoke to the warm embrace of the twin suns' rays streaming through his window. These dual suns of Tatooine remained an unsettling sight for him, their presence but one unusual aspect of this arid world. Yet, he couldn't help but cherish the gentle warmth they offered during the early hours of the day … well at least before the scorching heat of the day became unbearable.

  As Harry rose from his bed, a sense of anticipation washed over him. He realized that he had awoken earlier than the other guests in his home. With silent steps, he stealthily navigated past his mother's room, where she slept alongside Padme. Nearby, Jar Jar and Qui-Gon were sprawled out on the kitchen floor, lost in slumber. Careful not to disturb them, Harry made his way out to the courtyard behind his dwelling. It was here that he and his friends had recently relocated his prized possession, the podracer.

  Amidst the stillness of the early morning, Harry's excitement surged as he starred at his beloved podracer, bathed in the soft, golden morning light of the twin suns. Descending the stairs with a sense of purpose, he moved closer to the sleek, metal machine.

  Reaching the podracer, Harry's hands effortlessly initiated a diagnostic test, ensuring that the latest component he had meticulously integrated just two days prior had seamlessly become a part of the intricate circuits that powered the propulsion system. He meticulously inspected the intricate connections, making sure that every gear and circuit was functioning in harmony, ready for the race that hopefully lay ahead.

  With the diagnostic test underway, Harry's energy bubbled up inside of him. His face lit up with a brilliant smile, reflecting on the passion he now held towards podracing, a passion he had once assumed would only be held by Quidditch.

  Then, as if summoned by magic, he spun around with a swift, fluid motion and observed Padme standing in the doorway to his home, looking at him, her presence casting a radiant silhouette in the morning sunlight. Her delicate features were illuminated by the twin suns, creating a portrait of grace and beauty.

  For an instant, Harry was left momentarily speechless, his gaze locked on Padme. It was as if time had momentarily stilled, and the world around them faded into insignificance. He felt a sense of awe wash over him, captivated by her presence, which seemed to radiate a serene warmth, much like the gentle morning sun.

  Regaining his composure, Harry's features transformed into a mixture of delight and warmth. He greeted her with an animated wave, acknowledging her presence and inviting her to share in the morning.

  "Good morning, Padme," Harry greeted, his voice a blend of warmth and slight concern. "I apologize if I made too much noise and disrupted your sleep. Was I too loud?" He looked up at her with a hint of guilt in his eyes before continuing with a light-hearted laugh. "Unfortunately, it's a conversation I've had more times than I can count with my mom."

  Padme responded with a gentle smile and a reassuring shake of her head, her expression offering comfort in its sincerity.

  Harry released an exaggerated breath of relief, his features relaxing into a genuine smile. "I'm so relieved to hear that," he admitted, his voice tinged with gratitude. "You see, I tend to wake up quite early, and I've developed a habit of trying to start my day with the first light. It gives me a chance to accomplish as much as I can for both myself and my mom before the day becomes too hectic or …" His voice trailed off briefly, and he playfully gestured upwards at the twin suns that already dominated the sky. "Before it becomes unbearably hot."

  Padme acknowledged Harry's statement with a nod, her understanding and admiration evident in her expression. "That is a great life strategy," she remarked, her voice soft and thoughtful. "For what it's worth, I am also an early riser. I have … so many responsibilities and people who rely on me. Taking a few moments each morning just for myself helps me prepare for the day's duties and responsibilities. I find those few moments make all the difference in the world."

  Harry, appreciating the connection they shared in their early rising habits, nodded knowingly. As Padme settled on the stairs, leaning against the wall of his modest home, and closed her eyes, he returned to his work on the podracer. While focused on his task, Harry occasionally sensed that Padme had opened her eyes, watching him work on the podracer, which made him smile.

  This peaceful coexistence continued for the better part of an hour, the minutes stretching as they each prepared for the day ahead in their own way.

  Their tranquil companionship was disrupted when Harry's mother appeared, leading Qui-Gon, who looked refreshed and ready for the day. She waited patiently as Harry completed his task, understanding the importance of his work on the podracer to him.

  After giving Harry the opportunity to finish what he was working on, she nodded to Qui-Gon, who motioned for Harry to join them. Qui-Gon's eyes sparkled with purpose as he suggested that they commence their plan to convince Watto to allow Harry to participate in the Boonta Eve Classic.

  Filled with anticipation and eager to set their plan into motion, Harry readily agreed to Qui-Gon's proposal. With a swift farewell to his mother, their parting marked by a warm and tight embrace, Harry found himself standing outside his home, flanked by Padme. They waited patiently, enjoying each other's comapny, leaving Qui-Gon to the task of rousing Jar Jar and fetching R2-D2 to join them.

  And so it was that in the midst of the Tatooine morning, the five of them set off towards the salvage shop. Knowing that it was unlikely that Qui-Gon and his companions would manage to retrace the route to their destination due to travelling in the sandstorm, Harry assumed the role as leader, leading them along a well-trodden path towards Watto's shop. They forged ahead until they were just a two-minute walk from their destination, stopping at a familiar sight. Harry pointed out one of his friend's food carts, offering a tempting assortment of dweezels and local fare.

  Here, they would wait, savoring a hearty breakfast, biding their time, and allowing Harry a moment to put their plan into action. He understood that the Toydarian merchant could be a tough nut to crack. However, he was also aware that, aside from money and gambling, Watto's most significant weakness was the fear of missing out on an opportunity to gamble and potentially increase his wealth or standing.

  Leaving his companions behind, Harry set off in the direction of Watto's shop. However, as he drew neared to the shop he made a last minute decision and deftly slipped into an alley nestled between tow merchant carts and circled the bustling courtyard. He knew that this decision would allow him to approach the shop from a different direction, a strategy he was confident would catch Watto's attention, thereby setting the stage for their discussion..

  And sure enough, he had scarcely crossed the threshold into the shop when Watto came flying out of one of the adjoining rooms. He headed directly towards Harry, his wings fluttering with a sense of anticipation.

  "Pedunkel, you are earlier than your usual arrival time this morning," Watto remarked, his voice tinged with curiosity. "And you came from a different direction than your quarters. Is your sense of direction that disoriented from the sandstorm yesterday … or something else you are not telling Watto?"

  Suppressing a smile that threatened to burst forth, Harry marveled at the accuracy of his assumptions regarding Watto's keen observational skills. He understood that he had successfully piqued the Toydarian's interest, and now all that remained was to properly bait him. If all went according to plan, Harry was confident that Qui-Gon would find it relatively straightforward to conclude negotiations with the shrewd merchant.

  "Aye, Watto," Harry began, his tone measured and calculated. "You remember those three humanoids and the astromech who came in yesterday, just before I left, searching for parts for their ship?" He paused briefly, not seeking an answer but rather allowing Watto a moment to recollect the events of the previous day. He knew that the Toydarian's memory was sharp, and there was no chance that a failed sale would have slipped from his mind so quickly.

  Watto's head bobbed in a display of irritated acknowledgement, his face contorted with disgust. "What of them?" he spat out.

  Harry hesitated for effect, "Well," he began, drawing out the word for effect, "yesterday after I left here, I happened to run into them as they were exiting Utinni's salvage shop …"

  Before Harry could continue, a burst of hearty laughter erupted from Watto, his wings fluttering faster in mirth. "They ventured to Utinni's for ship parts?" he chortled, his amusement evident. "They must be even more desperate … or stupid than they initially appeared! Utinni's inventory is as unreliable as a droid with a malfunctioning motivator. I wouldn't trust the quality of the components he peddles, regardless of what that blind Rodian tries to claim. I doubt Utinni could distinguish a hyperspace engine from a moisture vaporator even if he tried."

  Watto's laughter subsided briefly as he fixed a scrutinizing gaze on Harry. "So, you made a return visit to Utinni's this morning?" he inquired, his business acumen shining through. "What did you uncover? What did you tell them last night?" Watto, despite his amusement, understood the value of keeping a watchful eye on his competitors and potential customers. He was keenly aware of the significance of staying informed, especially when it seemed it might be related to his own interests.

  Harry, with a nod of confirmation, continued to divulge the details of his fake interactions with the group. "Well, last night, I told them that the only place in Mos Espa where they could genuinely find the specific part they required was right here … well at least if they wanted a working model," he explained. He paused, introducing a feigned hesitation into his narrative. "That was the right thing to saw, wasn't it?" he inquired, directing his gaze upwards at Watto.

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  Watto, acknowledged his question with a nod, a smile playing on his lips, "Of course that was the right thing to say," he affirmed. "But the thing I don't understand is that even if Utinni miraculously possessed everything they needed, how did they expect to pay? Utinni may be quite dim, but even he isn't foolish enough to take that many Republic credits." Watto declared, punctuating his statement with a derisive scoff.

  Harry met Watto's inquisitive gaze as he continued the story. "Well, that's precisely why I paid Utinni's a visit this morning," he explained, his voice laced with conviction. "The elderly gentleman claimed to have won a podracer in a game of chance, boldly asserting that it was the fastest in the entire galaxy. Their tentative agreement was to participate in the upcoming Boonta Eve Classic, provided that Utinni could furnish them with a suitable racer. The man offered his own ship as collateral, and they then split the winnings from the race, which the man would then use to acquire the pieces from Utinni."

  Watto couldn't contain his amusement and let out another hearty laugh, his wings fluttering as if in response to his mirth. "Using Utinni's droid for the race?" he exclaimed with a hint of incredulity. "That man must be truly desperate! In fact, Anakin, I'd wager that even you would stand a better chance ..."

  The Toydarian's laughter subsided abruptly as he peered past Harry, his gaze fixed on something outside the door. After a moment of contemplation, he turned his attention back to the young boy infront of him. "Do you happen to know where these individuals are at this moment?" he inquired with a sense of urgency. Harry hid a smile, seeing that Watto's interest had clearly been piqued.

  Harry's smile was genuine as he answered. "Well … I suggested to them last night that if they were serious about making a deal with anyone, they should consider coming back here to hear you out first," he divulged, a sense of anticipation tingling his words. "I think they should be dropping by sometime this morning."

  At the utterance of these words, Harry was taken aback by the sight of Watto's sly and predatory grin. Watto had detected an opportunity, and Harry's "actions" had played directly into his hands.

  With a tone of satisfaction, Watto looked down on Harry. "That's absolutely perfect. There might be hope for you yet, boy," he declared, the hint of approval lacing his words. "The moment they arrive, ensure that you let me know, immediately."

  With that, Watto swiftly pivoted and took flight, heading in the direction of his office. Leaving a smiling Harry standing there, content that the carefully crafted plan unraveled precisely as it had been envisioned.

  Harry immediately set to work unloading and sorting a newly arrived box of droid replacement parts. However, he had scarcely begun when an unusual sensation coursed through him, one that he was sure indicated that Qui-Gon and his companions were approaching. It was an unexpected occurrence, as Harry typically experienced sensations of this strength only when in relation to individuals he knew intimately or when he felt threatened. The group he sensed approaching him now, did not seem to fit either of these categories.

  Qui-Gon's aura emitted a distinctive and almost otherworldly energy, leaving Harry with the sensation of what he assumed standing next to a malfunctioning hyperspace engine, its protective blast shielding compromised would feel akin to. However, Harry attributed the strength of sensations due to the man being a Jedi.

  Yet, it was the aura surrounding Padme that truly caught his attention. Her presence, he perceived, was far gentler than Qui-Gon's, but it resonated with an intensity that was unmistakable. It was as though there was much more to her than her role as a handmaiden and confidante to a queen suggested. Harry couldn't quite fathom why she resonated more with him than a Jedi, but the impression he received left him intrigued.

  In stark contrast to these two vibrant sensations, the presence of Jar Jar left Harry almost unaffected. Especially compared to the other two Harry felt little from him. Similarly, the droid R2-D2 did not register in his perception at all.

  Harry, still perplexed by what he sensed from the approaching visitors, shook his head gently. With determination, he set out to find Watto, knowing that the Toydarian merchant would welcome the opportunity to make it seem as though he had been prepared and ready for their arrival.

  Less than thirty seconds had passed, after Harry emerged from Watto's office with the toydarian and returned to the main area of the shop then Qui-Gon Jinn, accompanied by his party, made their entrance into the shop.

  Watto, with a voice that carried through the shop, boisterously greeted the party "Ah … the farmer and his party return!" he declared, a hint of theatricaliyu in his tone. "Have you come back to offer me more Republic credits … or do you come back with an … actual offer worth my time?"

  Harry acknowledged Qui-Gon's gaze with a smile, conveying through his expression that he had done his utmost to prepare Watto and set the bait. With a shared understanding, Qui-Gon redirected his focus toward Watto.

  Harry, however, cast his attention toward Padme. With a subtle wave of his hand, he beckoned her to his side, his gesture inviting her to join him.

  Once she had crossed the shop to join him, Harry led her through a doorway to another room, confident in his earlier conversation with Watto, that he and Qui-Gon would be able to settle terms without needing additional input from him.

  Back in the room filled with droid replacement parts, Harry's equilibrium was momentarily disrupted when Padme turned to face him, her gaze intense and probing. Her question, delivered with a gentle yet persistent tone, hung in the air, waiting for Harry's response. "Why are you doing this, Anakin?"

  Harry's initial response to Padme's probing question was one of momentary surprise. He met her intense gaze with a puzzled expression. "What do you mean?" he asked, attempting to deflect the inquiry, even though he sensed that Padme was not easily swayed by such evasions.

  Undeterred by Harry's attempt to sidestep the question, Padme continued to scrutinize him before speaking again. She spoke with a firm and knowing tone, her words measured and thoughtful. "Well, I, more than most anyone else, know that things are not always as they appear. However, here you are, assisting strangers without any expectation of payment or favors in return."

  Padme glance around the room, ensuring that their conversation had remained private, before continuing on in a quieter tone. "You know by now that our ship arrived with a queen fleeing her planet, escorted by two Jedi, and yet you offer your help without imposing any conditions ..."

  Harry listened attentively to Padme, his expression thoughtful and contemplative. Matching the intensity of her gaze, he began to respond. "I meant what I said the other day. I believe that doing the right thing is never the wrong thing to do, and helping those in need is a belief that I value."

  He paused, searching for the right words to express something he had not put thought into before she had asked her questions. "But," he eventually continued, "it's more than just that. Since I met your group, I've had a feel that it was important to help you. It feels as if something terrible might occur if I didn't help, and I couldn't just ignore that.

  Harry continued to hold Padme's gaze, his own unwavering as he slowly observed the slight transformation in her expression. The stern mask she had worn moments earlier softened, and an uncertain look briefly flickered across her features.

  With a tone that carried weight began "I know I may appear to be just a slave to you, a young of nine, almost ten. But," he continued, voice filled with conviction, "I've seen much evil in my life. I know what happens when it is ignored … when people chose to do nothing about it. I … I have been guilty of that in the past and I … I have to live with the memories of those I care about suffering for that decision." Harry's gaze remained locked on Padme's face as he spoke, pausing when he notivced a mixture of surprise and pity on Padme's face.

  Harry decisively reached out to clasp Padme's hand. The unexpected gesture caught her by surprise, causing her gaze to drop to their entwined fingers before meeting his gaze once more.

  "I promised to myself that I would not make that mistake again." Harry declared, his voice filled with sincerity and determination. "I will do everything I can to help you, for the simple reason that it is the right thing to do."

  Padme responded in a soft and appreciative tone. "Thank you, Ani …" She glanced down at their still-joined hands, seemingly surprised that they were still together before she slowly began to untangle their fingers.

  Perhaps seeking to alleviate the weight of their intense conversation, Padme offered Harry a genuine and encouraging smile. "You are a boy of many mysteries," she remarked, her eyes still reflecting the depths of her earlier emotions. "I honestly would not have thought when we first met that you might end up being our savior, nor that your life would be nearly as complex as it appears to be."

  Harry acknowledged her statement with a nod, smiling at her understanding.

  "You seem to have lived a life with more difficulties than most," she noted, "and yet … yet it seems to have not hardened you into a mean person, but instead appears to have made you better."

  Harry chuckled softly and smiled at her, thinking back on the difficulties he had faced even before waking up a slave, "You do not know the half of it."

  Her gaze lingered on him, a mix of curiosity and sympathy evident on her face. "Do you need to talk?" Padme inquired, her voice carrying a genuine concern for his well-being.

  Although he appreciated the offer, Harry responded with a gentle shake of his head, "I am not sure if I will ever be able to tell my story … certainly not in full anyways," he confessed, "but I do really appreciate the offer …"

  As he trailed off, his attention shifted back to the main room where they had left Qui-Gon bargaining with Watto, "… besides I have a feeling negotiations are soon to be completed," he continued, his gaze returning to Padme, "and a very happy Watto will be coming in here shortly."

  Indeed, as if on cue, Watto, now wearing a very pleased expression on his face, burst into the room, his excitement evident as he called out for Harry.

  "Boy! … Boy! … Ah, there you are," exclaimed Watto with elation, his jubilation apparent after what he considered was a successful negotiation. "We have reached a deal! … A very good deal!" He gestured towards Qui-Gon, as he began describing the newfound arrangement.

  "You will be flying this man's podracer during the Boonta Eve Classic," Watto continued, his enthusiasm at the deal evident. "I want you to go back with him and take a look at his podracer right now. You can have the rest of the day to inspect it. If it needs any work or if you think you can make it better, let me know. I won't allow any pod that I am sponsoring to be less than champion level, can I?"

  Turning his full attention to Qui-Gon, "If there are any parts the boy says you need or any work your craft needs … I fully expect you to let him do his work and to buy whatever parts he recommends from me … even if just with your Republic credits. Though it may take several years to get rid of those credits without taking a loss on them."

  Qui-Gon nodded respectfully towards the Toydarian, "Of course, we would not think of doing otherwise. As for the credits, I would understand if you choose to charge a convenience fee for the inconvenience."

  Qui-Gon's willingness to accommodate Watto did not go unnoticed and left the Toydarian with a satisfied smile, no doubt thinking just how much of an inconvenience these credits might be.

  Turning his attention back to Harry, Qui-Gon eagerly addressed him. "Come now Anakin, I look forward to going over … our podracer with you and hearing what you have to say."

  Kind Regards,

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