As they exit the Jedi Council chambers, the four make their way to the landing platform. The two children are left in the company of R2-D2 while the others discuss matters. Anakin is fascinated by the droid's beeps and whistles, but Sombra's attention is elsewhere. She overhears Obi-Wan arguing with Qui-Gon.

"It is not disrespect, Master, it is the truth."

"From your point of view...."

"The children are dangerous...they all sense it. Why can't you?"

"Their fate is uncertain, not dangerous. The Council will decide Anakin and Sombra's future...that should be enough for you. Now get on board!"

Obi's words about them being "dangerous", makes her heart sink. The words strike her deeply, as they come from someone she had hoped to earn respect and understanding from.

Feeling hurt and betrayed, Sombra takes Anakin's hand and leads him onto the ship, joining Padmé and the queen. Her emotions are a mixture of anger, sadness, and confusion. She thought that she and Obi-Wan shared a bond of understanding, but now it seems that he views her as a threat. The weight of the situation and her feelings become heavy on her young shoulders.

Inside the ship, Qui-Gon notices the change in Sombra's demeanor and approaches her. He recognizes the hurt in her eyes and the unease she's feeling. He crouches down to her level, and she and Anakin both express their worries.

"Master Qui-Gon, sir, we do not wish to be a problem."

Qui-Gon's warm chuckle reassures them. "You won't be...I'm not allowed to train you, so I want you both to watch me and be mindful. This situation is unprecedented, and people often reject what they don't understand. Always remember, your focus determines your reality. Stay close to me and you will be safe."

Sombra's heart is eased by Qui-Gon's words. However, she's still hurt by Obi-Wan's view of her. Feeling uncertain and determined, she mustered the courage to confront Obi-Wan about what she overheard. She approaches his door wanting to understand his perspective. "Obi, can I talk to you?" She asks in a whisper.

"Of course, we can talk, I always enjoy our little chats," he says with a chuckle while taking a seat on his cot. "Now tell me, what would you like to talk about, little one?"

Sombras once stoic face tilts up and Obi-Wan sees the tears rimming her eyes. "Are you angry at me Obi? I thought we were friends, we duel and we talk a lot, but... You called us dangerous. You said the council was right not to accept us. Did I do something wrong?"

Obi-Wan listens attentively to her words, realizing the weight of his careless comments. He sighs softly and gently kneels to her eye level, his expression apologetic. "Oh my dear... I am not angry with you at all. I am sorry you heard all of that. I'm just...afraid, I suppose, and it clouded my judgment. I allowed my apprehension to get the best of me and I am eternally sorry for that. I do hope we can continue to be friends, you're just about the best one I have at the moment," he says with a wink. He continues, speaking with warmth and genuine care, "I truly am happy to have met you, little one. And, if all goes well, I hope one day to be your master and guide you through your journey as a Jedi. Would you like that?"

Sombra's face breaks into a charming grin, and her eyes light up. "I'd love that, Obi!" She nods enthusiastically, her trust in Obi-Wan reaffirmed.

Som's curiosity leads her to explore the ship further, and she comes across Padmé along the way. As they chat, Padmé shares the plan for their arrival and how Qui-Gon suggested that Som should dress as a handmaiden to keep her identity secret in case they see her father again.

Padmé guides her to a room where a maroon ensemble is laid out. The clothing is both elegant and practical, fitting the role she's about to play. As Padmé helps her don the outfit, Som takes a moment to admire the rich fabric and intricate design of the jacket and pants. She slips on the knee-high black boots, feeling a sense of readiness for whatever awaits them.

With the clothing in place, Padmé then demonstrates how to style Som's hair into buns at the base of her neck, mirroring Padmé's hairstyle. Som watch with interest, learning the technique.

As they finish, Som remembers the leather belt and holster her father had crafted for her. She eagerly asks if she can wear it, showing Padmé how it fits perfectly with the ensemble. With a touch of pride, she slips a blaster into the holster and reassures Padmé that her father taught her how to handle various types of weapons. Padme smiles at the young girl as she applies the finishing touches to her ensemble.

As they stand in the room, Som hesitates for a moment before quietly asking, "Padmé, can I ask you something?"

Padmé turns her attention to Som, her warm smile encouraging the young girl to continue. "Of course, Som. You can always ask me anything."

She fidgets with the fabric of her new outfit, her fingers tracing the patterns as she searches for the right words. "Well, I've mostly been with my father and C-1, and I've never really been around other girls enough to even know. I don't know... am I pretty?"

Padmé's eyes soften with understanding. She takes a step closer to Som and gently places a hand on her shoulder. "Oh, Som, being 'pretty' means different things to different people. It's not just about how you look on the outside; it's also about who you are on the inside."

She continues, "And you, Som, are quite beautiful. Your dark, curled hair is rare and lovely, and your golden eyes are striking. But more than that, you're beautiful because of your kindness, your intelligence, and your warrior's heart."

Som listens attentively, absorbing Padmé's words with a mix of curiosity and introspection.

Padmé smiles warmly and adds with a wink, "And you know if you ever doubt how beautiful you are, just ask Anakin. The way he looks at you, it's like you're the center of his universe. He absolutely adores you, it practically shines through his eyes."

Som blushes, her gaze dropping to the floor as she absorbs Padmé's words. The idea that someone sees her as beautiful, not just on the outside but in her entirety, is a new and heartwarming realization.

As Padmé continues speaking, she moves on to explain the practicalities of their mission. Sombra listens attentively, eager to learn and contribute.

"Alright, Som, now that you're ready, I need to explain what will happen when we arrive," Padmé begins, her tone calm and composed. "We'll need to stay quiet and blend in as much as possible. The goal is to keep a low profile and avoid drawing any unnecessary attention."

Sombra nods, her focus unwavering as she takes in every word. "Yes ma'am"

Padmé continues, "You'll be right by my side, so stay close. If we encounter any trouble, stay calm and follow my lead. Your safety is a priority, and I want you to trust that I'll do everything I can to protect you."

Sombra's determination shines through as she replies, "I trust you, Padmé."

"Good," Padmé says with a reassuring smile. "Once we're inside the castle, you'll need to find a safe place to hide. Closets, quiet corners, any spot where you'll be out of sight and safe."

Sombra absorbs this information, her mind racing through the scenarios Padmé is describing. The seriousness of the mission becomes clearer to her with each passing moment.

"Remember, Som, your safety is important," Padmé emphasizes. "Don't leave your hiding spot unless I come to get you. Trust in our plan, trust in yourself, and trust in the force."

Sombra's eyes show a mix of determination and understanding. "I'll stay hidden until you find me. And I'll trust."

Padmé places a reassuring hand on Sombra's shoulder, her gaze filled with pride. "You've come a long way, Som, and I believe in you. Just remember, we're a team, and we'll watch out for each other."

With a newfound confidence and determination, Sombra nods in agreement. She knows the mission ahead is no small task, but she's ready to face it alongside Padmé, with unwavering resolve.

Stepping out of the room, Sombra feels like a completely different person. The maroon pants, knee-high boots, and velvet jacket fit her well, exuding an air of sophistication. Her hair is neat and stylish, giving her a regal aura.

As she scans the area, her eyes fall on Anakin, who is having a spirited debate with R2-D2 about podracing. Amused, she watches the two interact, allowing their banter to bring a smile to her face.

After a moment, Anakin senses her presence and turns toward her. His eyes widen in sheer admiration as he takes in her transformed appearance. The maroon outfit accentuates her features and radiates a certain elegance. He's momentarily lost for words before he finally manages to stammer, "Wow, Som, I didn't think you could get prettier."

Sombra giggles, pleased by his reaction. She steps closer to him, her eyes shining as she shares the details of the plan Padmé told her. Anakin's brows furrow with concern as he listens to the description of her role as a handmaiden and the potential danger involved. He's uncomfortable with the idea of her being in harm's way.

"But what if someone finds you? What if your father shows up?" Anakin's worry is evident in his voice. "I don't want anything to happen to you, Som."

Sombra places a reassuring hand on his arm, her gaze steady as she looks into his eyes. "Anakin, I'll be careful, I promise. Padmé and Qui Gon are looking out for us. We'll all watch out for each other."

Anakin's gaze softens, his concern still lingering but somewhat eased by her words. He then reaches into his pocket and pulls out a carved piece of wood. "I made this for you. I thought you could put it on your necklace. I carved it out of a japor snippet... It will bring you good fortune and keep you safe."

Sombra's eyes light up with delight as she examines the intricate carving. "It's beautiful, Anakin," she says, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. She takes off her necklace and carefully slips on the carved charm. With a playful smile, she looks at Anakin, displaying the chain with her new clothes, and teasingly asks, "So, how do I look?"

Anakin's response comes out dreamily as if he's lost in another world. "Like an angel."

Sombra blushes at his words, feeling a warmth spread through her face. The bond between them is palpable, and the way he looks at her like she's the most precious thing in the galaxy, makes her heart skip a beat. As they stand there, the atmosphere around them seems to shimmer with an unspoken connection, a shared understanding of their feelings that goes beyond words.