It's been what feels like an eternity since R2 went missing, but fortunately, we managed to get him back after a lot of relentless searching. In our journey, we also stumbled upon the elusive sphere that the Serpapostis had been using as their clandestine base of operations.

Thinking back, I can't quite recall if it was the first or second time I came face to face with General Grievous. He had loomed large, his mechanical frame casting an imposing shadow, yet there was an almost unsettling charm in his fascination with me. I knew I had been considered attractive when I was human, but it was still baffling—even for a droid leader like him—to be so visibly captivated.

Calm your circuits, General, I had mentally chided, aware of the irony. Navigating those strange undercurrents of admiration in a galaxy rife with conflict and intrigue was an unexpected challenge.

Right now, I find myself aboard a sleek silver starship, traveling with Senator Padmé Amidala and Jar Jar Binks, the Gungan representative of Naboo. Accompanying us is the ever-polite and slightly anxious golden protocol droid, C-3PO. We're en route to Rodia on a critical diplomatic mission. Our goal is to persuade the Rodians to remain loyal to the Republic or, at the very least, to not align with the Separatists.

"You seem tense," Padmé remarked, her keen eyes observing my restless demeanor. I was seated beside her, my fingers drumming nervously on the dashboard.

In my current form, I had taken on an appearance I was only recently familiar with—no longer fully human, but rather a half-dragon, half-human being known as a Dragonborn. Anakin had explained to me that Dragonborn were a wondrous creation of dragons themselves, sculpted to be either slaves, riders, or tamers. They were a testament to the dragons' ancient power and beauty, and although the concept was bewildering at first, I had come to embrace my new form.

As the starship hummed its steady rhythm through hyperspace, I couldn't help but reflect on the weight of our mission. The threat of the Separatists loomed large, and the Republic's unity was fragile. Padmé's words pulled me back from my thoughts, her concern evident. "We need you at your best," she said encouragingly, her fingers tapping a rhythmic reassurance on the dashboard.

The stakes were high, and the journey was fraught with uncertainty. But surrounded by friends and allies, I felt a surge of determination. For the Republic, for Anakin, and for the countless beings depending on our success, we would strive to secure the loyalty of Rodia.

I let out a deep sigh. "I know, my friend, I know. It's just that I have this strange gut feeling, one that I believe Master Yoda called the Force guiding me. Today it feels bitter, like things are going to happen not the way we want them to."

Padmé offered a reassuring smile and placed her delicate hand over mine, careful of my claws. "I know, dear," she said warmly, "but we need to go through with it no matter how it plays out."

Her touch was comforting, a reminder of the camaraderie and support we shared in these tumultuous times. Her eyes shone with determination and empathy, qualities that had always inspired those around her. The soft hum of the ship seemed to harmonize with the silent resolve in the cabin, each of us steeling ourselves for what lay ahead.

"It's just so hard to shake off this feeling," I admitted, glancing at the stars streaking past the viewport. "The Force feels more unpredictable than usual, like an impending storm we can't outrun."

Padmé nodded, her expression thoughtful. "The future is always uncertain, and even the wisest among us can't predict every twist and turn. But our mission is vital, and as long as we stay true to our cause, we stand a chance at influencing the outcome."

Her words were a gentle reminder of why we were here—why we continued to fight despite the odds. The road ahead was undoubtedly perilous, but with leaders like Padmé and the hope that still kindled in our hearts, we had the strength to face whatever challenges awaited us.

◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥

We soon arrived at Rodia, its beauty never ceasing to inspire me. Despite having traveled the galaxy thousands of times, each planet always felt like a hidden jewel amidst the rough territories of space, reminiscent of a gem guarded by an ancient dwarf king. They stood out, unmistakable and brilliant in their allure.

I let out a long breath, watching as smoke curled from my black nostrils which twitched slightly. My purple eyes roved over the verdant landscape as it rose to meet us. The lush green terrain shimmered under the sunlight, its natural beauty accentuated as our silver ship descended into the courtyard of the palace where the Senator of Rodia awaited us.

Padmé had spoken to me about Senator Onaconda Farr, a dignified Rodian with a sturdy reputation, noting affectionately that he was like an uncle to her. "He's been a staunch ally of the Republic and a mentor to me," she had said during our journey, her voice filled with admiration and warmth.

As we disembarked from the ship, the welcoming committee approached. The courtyard was buzzing with activity, diplomats and guards moving about with purpose. The air was filled with the subtle, earthy scent of Rodia's unique flora, mingled with the distant sounds of native wildlife. It was a place both alien and familiar, a testament to the planet's rich culture and history.

Senator Farr stepped forward, his emerald skin and large, expressive eyes immediately recognizable. He greeted Padmé with a warm embrace. "Padmé, it's been too long," he said, his voice carrying a blend of affection and relief.

"Uncle Ono, it's good to see you," Padmé responded warmly, her eyes reflecting the genuine fondness she held for him.

Turning towards me, Senator Farr raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "And who might this be?" he inquired, a touch of intrigue in his tone.

"This is my trusted companion," Padmé introduced me with pride in her eyes. "They've been a resilient and invaluable friend."

I inclined my head respectfully. "It's an honor to meet you, Senator Farr. Padmé has spoken highly of you."

"As she has of you," he replied with a nod. "Welcome to Rodia. We have much to discuss."

With that, we moved forward into the palace, the anticipation of our diplomatic mission hanging over us like a palpable force. The fate of Rodia's alliance and the future of the Republic lingered just beyond the ornate doors, ready to be shaped by our words and actions.

But then, chaos erupted. Battle droids appeared seemingly out of nowhere, their blasters raised menacingly, and the grotesque face of a Neimoidian leader emerged, teeth bared in a sinister grin. Reacting instinctively, I drew the lightsaber that Plo had once fitted for me, its blue blade humming to life.

"Why is a Neimoidian here?" I snarled, the tension in my voice palpable.

Ono immediately raised his hands in a placating gesture. "Please, please, Midnight, no sudden moves," he pleaded, desperation clear in his tone. "He's an ally."

I looked at Ono skeptically, still gripping my lightsaber tightly. "He works for the Trade Federation from what I've heard," I snapped, my eyes never leaving the Neimoidian.

The Neimoidian chuckled, a sound filled with derision. "Oh no, the Trade Federation has nothing to do with this," he said, waving dismissively. "And you must be the monster the Republic has found. My, my, I never thought you'd be so... humane," he added, his beady eyes trailing over me with a mix of curiosity and contempt.

His condescension ignited a spark of anger within me. "I am not a monster," I hissed, flames of determination flickering in my eyes. "And you will find that underestimating me is a mistake."

Ono stepped forward, trying to defuse the situation. "We are all on the same side here," he insisted, his voice calming but firm. "We need to focus on the real threat—the Separatists."

The Neimoidian nodded reluctantly, lowering his blaster. "Indeed. The Republic's strength lies in our unity," he conceded, though his tone still carried a hint of skepticism.

I powered down my lightsaber but kept a wary eye on the Neimoidian. "For now," I muttered, the words carrying a silent promise to remain vigilant.

Padmé approached, her presence soothing the fraught atmosphere. "Let's proceed with our mission. We need to discuss how we can work together to ensure Rodia remains aligned with the Republic," she said, her voice filled with resolve.

The Neimoidian shook his head firmly. "No, I want her," he said, pointing directly at me. His beady eyes then shifted to Padmé. "And you," he continued, "you are to be held behind bars until I'm sure you won't pose a threat."

His glare was cold and calculating, and I could feel the tension rise as I instinctively bared my teeth. "You will also be sent to Count Dooku if I see fit," he sneered, and then turned to his battle droids. "Shackle her!"

"Over my dead body," I growled, clutching my lightsaber tightly.

The battle droids approached with their blasters raised, but Padmé stepped bravely forward, raising a hand. "Wait!" she shouted. "We came here in peace. There's no need for violence!"

The Neimoidian's eyes flashed with irritation. "Silence!" he barked. "Your words hold no power here, Senator. We must ensure our safety first." He gestured sharply at his droids again.

Padmé's eyes met mine, and in them, I saw a mix of fear and determination. "Don't resist," she whispered urgently. "We need to find another way out of this."

Reluctantly, I lowered my lightsaber, though not extinguishing it entirely. The tension in the air was thick as the droids moved closer, their mechanical limbs whirring ominously.

It was Senator Farr who finally broke the oppressive silence. "This is not the way, Lott Dod," he said with authority, addressing the Neimoidian by name. "We need to handle this diplomatically."

Dod let out a scoff but reluctantly waved the droids back. "Fine, but the Republic will pay dearly if this goes awry," he hissed.

As the droids retracted, Padmé quickly whispered a plan to me. "Stay alert. We'll find a way to turn this around."

With fragile peace momentarily restored, we were escorted into the palace under heavy guard. Each step resonated with the weight of impending danger, but the mission was far from over. Despite the immediate threat, our resolve remained steadfast. We would navigate this treacherous path, not just for our immediate safety but for the greater good of the Republic.

◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥

I must say, I didn't enjoy a single moment of it. He was arrogant and smug, clearly envisioning me on a pedestal like some sort of prized pet. But let's be clear: I will never bow or be chained by any man, alien or otherwise, ever. I was livid throughout the entire dinner, trying to look away but finding it impossible to ignore the smug face of the Neimoidian, which burned in my mind like something I was desperate to claw apart.

My tail swished restlessly, and Padmé, ever perceptive, noticed. She placed a calming hand on my now bare knee, as I had exchanged my Jedi robe for a more fitting outfit—a stunning purple tunic that suited me perfectly and, undoubtedly, made some of the men in the room a touch... warm.

"Midnight, you need to stay calm," Padmé whispered delicately but with an authoritative undertone. "We can't let them see they've rattled us."

I met her eyes, filled with both warmth and caution. "I know," I replied, my voice low and seething. "But it's hard to keep composed when he looks at me as if I'm a trophy he can display."

The guests continued their conversation and toasting, seemingly oblivious to the burning conflict simmering beside them. The Neimoidian leaned closer, his smile laced with disdain.

"So, Jedi," he said mockingly, "how does it feel to be here as a humbled guest, rather than a powerful warrior?"

I clenched my fist under the table, feeling the shame and anger bubbling beneath my skin. "I am here to secure peace," I answered through gritted teeth. "Something you will never understand."

Padmé intervened once more, her diplomatic prowess something I greatly admired. "Senator Dod," she said with serene majesty, "let us focus on why we are all here tonight—to find common ground and a path forward in support of the Republic."

The Neimoidian's smile faltered slightly, but he did not retaliate. "Of course, Senator," he responded, raising his glass in an ironic toast. "To peace."

As the dinner continued, I held my rage at bay. But one thing was certain—this battle was far from over, and I would never allow anyone—man, alien, or otherwise—to break my spirit.

After dinner, Senator Farr escorted me to my room, with Padmé trailing behind us while conversing with Captain Typho. "I must say, my lady, the Jedi Council didn't tell me how radiant you look," Farr remarked, his tone filled with genuine admiration.

I chuckled softly and gave him a small smile, my black scales catching the light from the lanterns. "Thank you, Senator. It means a lot to hear that from someone of such a remarkable race." I inclined my head respectfully, and he did the same, performing the traditional Rodian farewell, before walking away with one of his senior commanders.

Padmé and I reached our quarters, and I sank into a plush armchair, feeling the day's tensions start to melt away. I exchanged my tunic for my black, lacy, and comfortably athletic nightwear. The fabric felt soothing against my scales, offering a rare moment of relaxation amidst the chaos.

Padmé watched me with a mix of concern and curiosity. "You handled yourself well tonight," she said, sitting down on the edge of her bed. "But I can see how much it's affecting you."

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "It's hard to keep my composure when every inch of me wants to fight. That Neimoidian has a way of getting under my skin."

Padmé nodded thoughtfully. "Diplomacy can be just as challenging as combat, if not more so. We can't let our emotions dictate our actions, especially when so much is at stake."

"But sometimes, it feels like I'm the only one who sees the urgency," I replied, frustration creeping into my voice. "Every second we waste in these negotiations is another moment the Separatists gain ground."

"I understand," Padmé said gently. "But we have to play the long game. The Republic's strength lies in its unity, and we must protect that at all costs."

Her words offered some comfort, but the sense of impending conflict still loomed large in my mind. "I know you're right," I admitted, "but it's hard to wait and watch when I know we could be doing more."

Padmé reached over and squeezed my hand. "We'll get through this together. We always do."

I nodded, grateful for her support. "Thank you, Padmé. Your friendship means more to me than I can express."

As the night wore on, we both prepared for the days ahead, our resolve hardening with each passing moment. The mission was far from over, and we would need every ounce of strength and wisdom to navigate the treacherous path before us. Together, we would face whatever challenges came our way, for the sake of the Republic and for the futures we sought to protect.