As a politician-in-training in the Apprentice Legislature, Leia organizes her first humanitarian mission to the planet Wobani, a world whose people have been impoverished by the abusive governing of Emperor Palpatine's Galactic Empire.

He recognized her resemblance to Padme Amidala, who he served under and is Leia's deceased biological mother, meaning the bombing actually saved her life.

Leia learns that her parents' ally Saw Gerrera, the leader of an extremist rebel cell called the Partisans, was responsible for the attack.

Though Bail and Breha forbid her involvement in the conspiracy for her own safety, Leia continues her humanitarian missions to worlds they believe are safe.

When she is faced with resistance from the proud, frog-like Nal Huttans, Leia negotiates their acceptance of her aid in exchange for a favor to be owed her in the future.

She begins gathering information about a planetary abuse on Chasmeene and brings it to Senator Mon Mothma of Chandrila, whom she hopes can publicize it.

As Leia becomes closer to Kier and entrusts him with details of her parents' secret work, they are horrified by the punishment inflicted upon Christophsis, whose leaders had committed similar treason against the Empire.

"[7] Comic Book Resources thought the novel "would be the perfect inspiration for a [television] show about a younger Princess Leia [...]".