Having recently ascended the throne of Naboo, Padme Amidala embarks on a goodwill tour to various countries. Her purpose is twofold: She wishes to determine who might be a potential ally against the might of the Empire and its increasing threat, and she wishes to root out the scourge of slavery from the planet.
On this mission, her sister and Colonel Veers aid in the rescue of two slaves---Rilla and Firmus Piett. Upon their return to Naboo, Padme sends word to the distant land of the Jedi, hoping that these elusive and possibly magical people might help her in her cause.
They send two representatives who arrive shortly before the Empire launches its first attack at Naboo. If they all survive it, Padme finds that she would like to know more about this Jedi Knight who goes by the name of Anakin Skywalker.