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Palpatine looked surprised, even entertained by the notion. “I hardly think that’s necessary on Coruscant, Your Majesty. The only danger here comes from having to fraternize with other senators, and somehow remain immune to the greed that plagues the Galactic Senate.”

The queen returned to the holofield. “What about the recent troubles between the Trade Federation and the Nebula Front terrorists, Senator?”

Palpatine shook his head in disapproval. “That sorry incident only pointed out how ineffectual the Republic has become at mediating such conflicts. Too many in the Senate place their own needs above the needs of the Republic.”

“What will become of Chancellor Valorum’s proposal to tax the free trade zones?”

“I feel certain that the Supreme Chancellor will pursue the matter.”

“How will you vote, Senator, should the matter reach a vote?”

“How would you have me vote, Your Majesty?”

Amidala thought before replying. “My responsibility is to the people of Naboo. I would very much like to establish good relations with Chancellor Valorum, but Naboo can scarcely afford to become embroiled in a dispute that pits the Republic against the Trade Federation. I will abide by your decision on the matter, Senator.”

Palpatine inclined his head. “Then I will weigh the matter carefully, and vote according to what is ultimately best for Naboo and the Republic.”

Valorum stood at the tall windows, gazing out on the cityscape.

“The last time we met here, it was to discuss the Trade Federation’s request for protection from terrorists,” he said, “and in the months since, the situation has only intensified. When I reflect on the sequence of events that have brought us to this dark place, I find myself at a loss. If someone had tried to tell me months ago that we were headed here, I wouldn’t have heeded the warning, because I wouldn’t have considered it possible.”

Senator Palpatine said nothing. He waited for Valorum to turn from the view.

“Out of respect for what occurred at the summit, I have deferred bringing the motion for taxation before the senate. But I am under pressure to resolve the matter once and for all—from those who support it, as well as those who oppose it.”

Valorum pivoted to face Palpatine. “You, perhaps more than anyone, know the climate of the senate. Did the assassinations create sympathy for the Trade Federation, to the point where we won’t be able to gather sufficient support for taxation?”

“On the contrary,” Palpatine said. “What happened on Eriadu only reinforced everyone’s fears that we are entering violent times, and that the conflict between the Trade Federation and the Nebula Front could be a sign of greater tragedies to come.

“What’s more, with the profit-driven Neimoidians now helming the Trade Federation, tension is likely to increase in the outlying systems. Your plan to redirect revenue to the Outer Rim is praiseworthy, and is something that should be put into effect. Many worlds and struggling concerns stand to profit from such a move. Market competition will eventually temper the reach of the Trade Federation, without need for the Republic to intervene, beyond taxation.”

Valorum nodded. “And what of the Trade Federation’s request for additional defenses? Even with the Nebula Front eliminated as a threat, the Neimoidians will want permission to augment their army.”

“That’s true,” Palpatine said slowly. “As an accommodation, if nothing else, we should at least consider allowing the Trade Federation to take whatever steps are necessary to safeguard their vessels. The breakup of the Nebula Front does not preclude the possibility of further acts of terrorism, launched by whatever groups rise up next.”

Valorum regarded Palpatine. “Will we have Naboo’s vote?”

Palpatine sighed with purpose. “Unfortunately, Queen Amidala is not prepared to support taxation, as Naboo still relies on the Trade Federation for many essential imports. She is young and inexperienced in such matters, but eager to learn.” He fixed his gaze on Valorum. “However, I will