I could hear the crash of lightsabers before I even opened the door of the practice room, guessing that this was the right one. Obi-Wan's directions had been pretty vague, at least for a floor comprised of almost nothing but practice rooms. Master Qui-Gon was usually good about delineating the difference between private time and acceptable intrusions, and this afternoon I knew it was okay for me to drop in on him while he stretched his abilities with a fellow Master of comparable skill. Not wanting to disturb them, I crept quietly through the door and hid behind the partition that screened the entrance from the main part of the room, listening for a moment. In between the lightning-cracks of saber-blade contact, they were talking. Even as I entered I heard an unfamiliar voice say, "...didn't he prefer Form Five?"

"Only because I wouldn't let him study Form Seven." Slash, crack. "I think it's safe to say that was a wise decision on my part?"

Crash, zing. The other voice chuckled heartily. "A pity that he couldn't see a Form Four Master right in front of him."

Bam! Qui-Gon's voice sounded strained. "Master?" he panted, and I thought I heard a little delight behind the stress. "That was more than ten years ago, I was hardly up to the shape I am today."

"Right," the other scoffed, also straining. "Hardly. You...were already amazing then...but you're still no match."

I felt the Force reverberate so powerfully through the room that I imagined I could actually hear the thunder-like rumble that always accompanied it on screen. The second speaker grunted hard, and I heard something thud to the floor. The lightning crackle of lightsabers returned to the usual steady hum of a blade at the ready. "Very nice," the man said breathlessly.

"I didn't hurt you, did I?" Qui-Gon wondered.

"Just my pride," the other groaned. "Again?"

The sabers hummed against the silence for a moment, and then the crashing and zapping resumed in rapid sequence. I wanted to peek and see them fighting, but the wish to prevent distractions proved stronger, especially since it sounded like Master Qui-Gon had just Force-pushed his opponent back. I feared stepping in and getting in the way of flying blades and/or bodies. Just being able to hear the battle was enough for me, I smiled as I stood there in the shadows.

Shortly, the discussion resumed. "Did anything else of note happen on this mission?" the challenger asked between parries.

Crash, crash, swipe. "Nothing you would find interesting, I'm sure," Qui-Gon replied shortly, followed by a deep breath and a sudden loud crack of contact.

The second voice gave a chuckle, and then a grunt as he did something particularly powerful that resulted in a flurry of footsteps backing away on the stone floor. "Your charge?"

"What about her?" Lightsabers buzzed as if being whirled rapidly through the air.

Crash! "I hope she's recovering well from your little mishap."

"Quite well." Clash, smack!

"She's had quite an impact on you." Zing! "What is that I feel from you?"

A rapid succession of deflections answered him before Qui-Gon managed to gasp, "You're trying to rattle me, Dahail. It won't work."

"We'll see about that." Bam, crash... "Will I ever get to meet this young recluse?"

The searing, blistering sound of lightsabers tangling ripped through the arena, and I started at the violence of the sound. The Force rumbled, I heard laughter, and then a blast and another couple thuds. Only one lightsaber blade was now active. "I think so," Qui-Gon replied casually, panting for breath. "She's standing right over by the door."

Damn. How does he do that? I shook my head and called out, "Is it okay for me to come in?"

"Of course, you may." I stepped around the partition and gave another little start at the sight which met me. Qui-Gon was just extinguishing the green blade of his lightsaber as I entered view, and reached down to help up the figure lying prostrate at his feet. The other Jedi could have been his brother, they looked so much alike, though he seemed more broadly built, not as tall, and with longer hair. As he brushed himself off and turned to me, I guessed from the lines creased in his face that he was much quicker to laugh than Qui-Gon, also. The Master warmly introduced me. "Master, this is my friend, Stacey. Stacey, meet Master Dahail Sunfire."

I gave him my best Jedi bow. "Well met, Master."

Dahail chuckled again. "Likewise. I've heard much about you."

I smiled nervously. "All good, I hope?" He laughed in reply. I turned my gaze to Qui-Gon. "I didn't mean to distract you, Master. I was just curious what you were up to."

"You didn't distract me," he assured with a cool smile. "I won, didn't I?"

"This round," Dahail corrected him. "Clever of you to avoid my use of the Force."

"You broadcast your intention," Qui-Gon scolded back, wagging a finger. "It wasn't hard." He replaced his lightsaber on his belt and walked over to a bench sitting against the opposite side of the door partition from where I had been lurking. Two brown robes lay on it, and a towel, which Qui-Gon picked up and tossed to the other Master. "It's perfectly all right, Stacey. You're welcome here. Master Dahail and I were just taking some time out for practice."

"Not with Obi-Wan?" I noted.

"As iron sharpens iron," Dahail said sagaciously as he mopped his face. "Obi-Wan may be talented but he's still a learner. The only way for a couple of old buzzards like us to hone our own skill is to face off against someone of like skill." He grinned broadly at me. "You missed me wiping the floor with him earlier."

"I told you I still have much to learn," Qui-Gon smiled. "I shall have to try that defensive strategy sometime. It was very effective."

"Ah, I can't take credit for that," Dahail sighed with a wave of his hand. "That comes from Master Yoda."

He tossed the towel back, and Master Qui-Gon finally dabbed the beads of sweat from his brow. "So does most of what I know, in a sense."

"You have no need to worry, Qui-Gon," Dahail assured, clapping his friend heartily on the shoulder. "Your apprentice is in very good hands. As is this young charge of yours." He smiled so brightly that his eyes sparkled as with an inner light, the same mysterious "I know something" way as Qui-Gon always did.

My Master heaved a deep, cleansing breath. "Shall we have another go, then?"

"Unfortunately, I have work to do. The Q'el are preparing to transport their Jigan, and have asked me to serve as escort - since I was the one who rescued it many years ago - and I want to research the ritual in the library archive before it's swarming with enthusiastic young initiates." Master Dahail concluded his story with a wink.

Qui-Gon chuckled deeply. "I understand completely. Thank you for your time, Dahail. It's always a pleasure to spar with you."

The two Masters clasped hands firmly. "Anytime, old friend," Dahail said, still smiling as brightly and wisely as ever. "If you're still on retainer when I return from this jaunt, look me up again. I would be happy to put you in your place a few more times." Both of them laughed at that, and I couldn't help but grin at Dahail's jovial nature - and the like joy he brought out of Qui-Gon. He bent down to pick up his robe. "A pleasure to meet you, Stacey. Take care of yourself, so you can continue having adventures."

"Thank you, Master Dahail." I liked him immediately, and grinned at him as he waved on his way out. I wanted to wish him luck on his mission, but I didn't know what kind of retort about not believing in luck I'd get, so I settled for a quiet smile.

Qui-Gon's hand came to rest on my back, getting my attention immediately. "Is that all you wanted? To watch me practice?"

"Of course," I said brightly, and honestly. "How badly did he beat you, really?"

"The score was three rounds to one - my advantage."

I looked into the sly light in his eyes and laughed. "So he's all talk, then?"

"Hardly." Qui-Gon's smile was tempered briefly by a serious and reverent look. "Master Dahail is very serious about his forms, and very good. There are few swordsmen of his caliber in the Order these days. My advantage today was unusual - we tend to split more often than not, or he takes it."

He guided me to the door and out, though I needed no incentive to go along with him. "You're being modest," I scolded him as we walked. "I'd more easily believe the splitting. You practiced for over an hour - you only got four matches in?"

"Had Master Dahail not made a mistake in the second round, it would have been only three," Qui-Gon casually said.

"Wow." We walked for a while in silence, all the way to the lift and up to our floor. "I like him," I said as we exited to the plush hallway of our level. "He seemed nice. Very friendly." I glanced up at Qui-Gon. "He's one of your close friends?"

The reverence returned to the Master's face. "Dahail is indeed an old friend, and a good one. Sparring is only the beginning of our relationship."

"You haven't told me about him before," I noted as we reached the door to his quarters.

"There are a lot of things I haven't told you," he smartly came back. "As for Master Dahail, I just didn't have the chance until today. Now, if you'll excuse me," he said with a concluding air, "after that session I need to wash up."

"Don't let me stop you." Obi-Wan was there, anyway, so I could bother him instead. I cornered the young apprentice in the doorway to his room, and discussed plans to continue teaching him to read my writing later on that evening. "I think you're getting the hang of it," I encouraged. "At least it's all Basic, it's not like you're learning a new language."

"I know," he sighed softly. "If you're sure you want to put up with me for another lesson, then yes, we can do it tonight. I've no other plans, nor does Master Qui-Gon as far as I know."

"Good." Considering the matter settled, I went back into the sitting room and flopped down on the couch with my journal, paging through it to hopefully find an innocuous passage that I could use to help Obi-Wan practice. What I would have given to have just one book from Earth with me, almost any one, that I could give him to practice reading! But all we had was my journal, unless I sat down and composed something. Sitting there with the tablet in my lap and the stylus twirling between my fingers, I contemplated putting forth the effort of recalling a classic tale that I could write down for Obi-Wan, trying to convince myself that I had all the time in the world to put the great oral traditions of Earth into words for the sake of a home-made easy-reader. Quarters had fallen silent: Obi-Wan was back in his room, and the sounds of his Master showering had ceased some time ago. Encouraged by the stillness, my mind grasped onto memories and threw suggestions out, everything from fairy tales to literature. What do I know best? I tapped my stylus against the blank page of my journal. I suppose it doesn't matter if I know it well, though. Obi-Wan won't care. Hmm, maybe I'll paraphrase The Lord of the Rings, that's my favorite book. I glanced up at a movement in my line of sight and did a double-take. Freshly-showered, his long hair hanging in damp strands around his face, Qui-Gon walked casually past in an unintentionally revealing bathrobe. It looked to be made of the same material as his tunics, or a similar soft silk, and was the same color. It hung no lower than mid-thigh on him, with elbow-length sleeves fluttering along the lines of his muscles. Almost nothing was left to the imagination, as the tie at his waist failed to keep the robe closed over his broad chest. He didn't even glance at me as he passed, heading for his room. A few minutes later, after I had calmed myself down, he emerged in full tunics as if nothing had happened. Boy, I thought to myself as he came to sit down with me and see what I was up to, was I ever wrong. He hasn't learned a thing about modesty after all.

Only two full days remained before the Chancellor's party, and knowing that all of one would be spent getting ready increased my trepidation of the event itself. Wasting time perusing Coruscant's holonet news didn't help any, as a social event the size and magnitude of the Supreme Chancellor's Fête celebration made headlines and I heard for the first time just how many people had been invited. There was even talk of a private pyrotechnic display set to go off at midnight. I related the interesting bits I found to the Jedi as we sat down together for lunch. "It sounds like it's going to be quite a party," Obi-Wan remarked off-handedly.

"I wonder what these 'surprises' for the guests are," I added. "Gifts?"

"Not likely," Qui-Gon said, pushing aside his empty plate and taking his glass to him. "It's not traditional for this time of year. Perhaps some special entertainment - after all, the Chancellor can afford to book just about anyone he wants."

I nodded acceptingly. "I'm starting to think I might enjoy this after all. At least, it's going to be a heck of a spectacle worth watching. I'm a bit nervous, though." I turned my gaze to the Master. "There's going to be a lot of people there. It's going to be huge...and intimidating."

"You will be with us," Obi-Wan reminded. "Consider where you've been over the past few months, this is nothing by comparison."

I gave him a wary chuckle. "I don't know which is more out of my element, a reception with the Chancellor or being shot down by a pirate warlord in the Outer Rim."

Qui-Gon faced me seriously. "There are a few things we must go over before this party." He had my attention instantly, as I settled to listen and obey. "First of all, your status in the Jedi Temple is not to be mentioned under any circumstances. The High Council wishes to keep information about requesting asylum with the Order from getting out. Even though Chancellor Valorum does know of the policies about asylum, few, if any, of his associates do, and both the Council and the Chancellor are working to keep it that way. If anyone asks, tell them anything but that you are a resident of the Temple. I don't care what story you concoct, just make sure to keep this small bit of information to yourself."

"And perhaps it would be wise if we all shared in the story, so that if we are pressured to speak of how we know you, we aren't giving people conflicting information," Obi-Wan added.

I nodded. "We're not doing the 'archivist' thing this time? All right, I'll think of something and let you know."

Qui-Gon gave a single nod of acceptance. "Second, while it is a party and therefore supposed to be entertaining, it is also a function of the Supreme Chancellor. He will have many dignitaries, senators, and other important figures in attendance. Among such people, there are many spies." He looked deadly serious as he met my gaze and murmured, "do not speak overmuch, and under no circumstances should you speak of your homeworld. And be careful to whom you speak. Not everyone there is interested in friendliness, there will be spies seeking to uncover information that might be used against their employers' enemies. Anyone to whom you speak could be trying to pry things out of you that are best not brought up in such company. Trust no one." He thought about that, and after a pause shook his head. "No, perhaps it would be better if I said, trust only those who you see myself or Obi-Wan approach willingly. I do have a few associates among the Chancellor's circle, but very few, and I can't guarantee which, if any, will be at this party. But if they are, you should be able to trust them just as Obi-Wan and I do."

"And you would never willingly approach someone you didn't trust to start up small talk, because you just don't small-talk with anyone," I noted with a slight grin.

Qui-Gon's expression lightened. "Exactly my point."

"I'll just keep my mouth shut and smile, and eat and drink all night," I assured. "I don't have anything in common with these people anyway, there won't be much to talk about."

"There will be plenty to look at, however, I have no doubt of that." Qui-Gon drained his glass and finally gave me a smile. "You'll do fine. I'm sure it will be a lot of fun."

I smiled back, inwardly wondering how he chose to define "fun." "It better be, considering how much we've invested in getting me all prettied-up. It better be worth all the time I have to spend in that dress." I peered curiously at each Jedi in turn. "What are you guys wearing? Same old robes as usual?"

Qui-Gon coolly shared a glance with his apprentice before rising to clear away some of the dishes. "We have it taken care of. You will see tomorrow."

I frowned curiously at his retreating back. Oh, really?

It was fairly clear, when she answered the door of her quarters the following afternoon to admit me, that Te was having a great deal more fun with this celebration thing than I was. She had offered to help me with my hair and the finishing touches, naturally scheduling me for far more time than I thought necessary - though I admitted to having never done this sort of thing before, so my estimation could not be trusted. All I had to do was sit and critique, so I watched in the mirror and explained the concept of prom to Te while she tried different things. The streaks that I had bleached in my hair on my home planet months ago had already grown out until the blond only highlighted the ends, but she wanted to show them off if she could. I tended to wear my hair just pulled back into a ponytail and tied with a leather cord, no fuss and no frills, but I accepted Te's learned assessment that leaving it down wouldn't look right with this dress. "So why did you never go to one of these 'proms' if they are such an important tradition on your world?" she asked while reaching for the brush to try yet another idea.

"Tradition nothing," I scoffed. "I'm far too practical for my own good. I don't buy into the notion of traditions when I don't see a reason for them, or if I don't find them interesting. Spending all that money on a dress I'll never wear again and will probably look ugly in, only to go stag with a bunch of other girls who also couldn't get dates, and staring longingly at all the happy couples swaying dreamily to sappy love songs all night, didn't really sound like my idea of a good time." I cocked her a sly eyebrow in the mirror. "I've been out of high school for six years, and I still don't regret it."

Te's lips formed a disapproving pout. "You certainly are too practical. Then again," she added, softening, "after living among Jedi so long, I find I've also become practical. Jedi are far from frivolous, and I consider that a good thing." She studied my reflection for a moment before giving a frustrated little huff and letting my hair back down. "Will you let me present you?" she asked for about the millionth time that week. "I want to see their reactions."

"You're going to get us in trouble, Te," I exclaimed with a nervous smile. "I haven't told Qui-Gon that you know about my feelings for them. He's really serious about keeping it quiet around the Temple - I don't understand why but I agree with him."

"No one will hear of your relationship from me," she assured, picking up a clip to pin down some errant strands of hair. "I have embraced the ways of the Jedi, and their philosophies, but there are a few things I don't agree with. There, what do you think of that?" She stepped back to admire her handiwork.

I lifted my eyes to the mirror and wasn't disgusted by what I saw. Te had pulled my hair up mostly into a knot, but left the bleached ends dangling out to one side. It looked pretty good, and I told her so. "Needs something, though."

"If only I had some flowers," she sighed.

"Nah, flowers wouldn't match. My dress has stars all over it."

"Oh! Stars!" Te whirled around and began rummaging in a small, ornate box sitting on the bureau behind her. I didn't see what was inside it, for she conducted her search quickly and snapped it shut, turning to me with a triumphant smile. Her scarlet hand opened in front of my face to reveal a silver brooch shaped like a rayed star, its center and symmetrical points set with dazzling white gems. "It's not a hairpin," she admitted, "but I think I can make it work."

"Oh my gosh, Te, that's gorgeous - and I don't even like diamonds," I breathed. "Where did you get that?"

Her dark eyes grew sad for a moment. "When I finally found the courage to run away from the people who enslaved me, I took with me every last piece of jewelry that I had ever been given, and stole a few besides. Most of it I sold or traded to buy passage on ships, but when I arrived on Coruscant I still had some left. I've kept it all these years, locked in this box. Some pieces carry painful memories with them. But this..." The sadness shimmered for a moment and then disappeared as she smiled delicately. "A regional governor on Ryloth bought me for a time, only for my company and nothing else. He was very kind, and lavished me with gifts, including this brooch. But, he lost his money when he was voted out of office, and had to sell me back to the slave traders. I tried to keep everything he gave me, but most of it bought my way here."

I looked down at the sparkling ornament in her hand. "You sure you trust me with it?"

She snorted. "It's only a little thing. I just think it would look good on you. Maybe...here?"

We finished up in front of the mirror, and then it was time to force myself into the dress. Te hunted for more jewelry while I ducked into the refresher to change, and came trundling out with several yards of expensive fabric swishing noisily around me. We had spent far too much time experimenting and sitting around talking about girl things, it was getting quite late and I didn't want to keep the Jedi waiting. Though we had no plans to arrive at the very start of the reception, I did note that it would be starting soon regardless. Te fussed around me like a big sister, making sure everything was adjusted and tucked and draped properly, before convincing me to don a silver bracelet she had found. It didn't match well with the earrings, though, exasperating me more than her because I didn't really care whether anything matched. I was lucky I had the right undergarments on, I could have really cared less about matching jewelry at that point. Slipping on the soft shoes, I nearly escaped until Te decided I needed cosmetics. For once, I voiced my frustration. "No makeup!" I growled. "I never wear it. Heck, you don't even wear it."

"Are you so sure?" Te wagged a finger at me. "Just to enhance your eyes. You have such long eyelashes, I'll bet Master Qui-Gon would never notice them unless we..."

"Oh, come on, Te," I whined. "I don't want any. Just let me get out of here! I look fine."

"Let me try one small thing," she begged. "If you don't like it, you can wash it off."

I can't believe I'm having this argument. "Fine," I grumbled.

When I finally got to leave her quarters, I had been the one to eat my words after all. Te didn't do much, but I forced myself to admit that it helped a little. How people could make ordinary eyes look so smoldering with just a little paint was beyond me. Taking up the shawl and tucking my arms through it, I took a deep breath to quell the little flicker of nervousness welling up in the pit of my empty stomach and nodded for Te to go ahead of me - she was going to announce me when we got to the Master's quarters. I swept regally along the corridor like a visiting queen, glad that this level seemed otherwise deserted. I would have been mortified if we had to run a gauntlet of Jedi Knights to get from Te's quarters to my destination, but the Temple was quiet today and even the lift was empty. The nervous flicker flared up as the lift doors swished open and I sighted the door far down the corridor, so I had to take another couple of deep breaths to center myself. My heart couldn't decide if it wanted Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan to be stunned at my appearance or not notice the frivolous enhancements, torn between my usual practical nature and the hidden wish to be thought the most beautiful woman in the galaxy. I paused far enough away so the door would not be triggered, letting Te ring and be admitted first. I stood for a moment with my eyes closed while they greeted each other, I could just hear them. All right, here we go. There was no more time to think about being nervous, for I heard her voice through the doorway: "Master Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, I present Stacey..."

Stifling the stupid grin that wanted to come out, I stepped up to the door and passed through it, only able to hold my composure for about two seconds before my eyes fell on my Jedi companions and I gasped in wonder. They were not just in clean robes, they were dressed up. Both wore new undertunics of an off-white color that had high, close-fitting collars, over which they had layered crisp tunics a shade darker than what each normally wore. Qui-Gon's looked more gray than sandy, and Obi-Wan's was a pebble color. Their robes looked new also, the Master's so dark it was nearly black, his Padawan's a deeper shade of brown that brought out the auburn tones in his short hair. Their boots and gear bore a definite polish, the lightsabers practically shining on their belts. It was the high-collared undertunics, though, that made them out to be formally dressed. After a few minutes of unabashed staring, I realized they, too, were gazing in awe at me. I met Qui-Gon's eyes, and saw in them something I had only heard about in fairy tales. Rapture. Beside me, Te practically quivered with delight. I found my throat suddenly dry, and worked to form just one word. "Well?"

Qui-Gon just stood there, blinking. Obi-Wan breathed, "Beautiful."

I felt my face grow hot. "What, me or the dress?"

He hesitated, flustered. "Both," he finally answered with a bashful grin. "I don't know what you were worried about."

"I feel so weird," I confessed with a conspiratorial giggle at Te. "Now that I'm all dressed up, I'm like...bring it on. I'm ready now."

Master Qui-Gon finally reacted, taking a step forward and reaching for my hand, which I tentatively let him have. "I am honored to be at your side tonight," he murmured. "We will certainly be the envy of many men."

I think all three of us blushed at that. I lowered my eyes shyly. "It's the dress."

"No, it isn't." I looked up again, daring to believe Qui-Gon. He cracked a small smile. "Although, I do like the dress. It reminds me of twilight."

I grinned ecstatically. "Good, because it's supposed to."

"I think it is time I excused myself," Te broke in, giving me a petite smile. Her eyes glowed with as much happiness as I felt - if all she could do was live vicariously through me, it looked like she was getting her fill. "Enjoy yourselves, and may the New Year bless you."

"And you, Te," Qui-Gon said graciously, bowing to her. "Thank you for all your help."

"Anything for a friend." She winked at me as she turned and glided out the door.

Without my female companion to back me up, the nervousness returned tenfold, as I found myself staring up into the handsome faces of two men whose reactions to the moment were no longer held back behind a wall of the Force. A wave of emotion nearly knocked me over, but we all paused to take a deep breath and let the excitement subside. "Well," Qui-Gon said at last, "we should be going. An air taxi will be waiting for us at the hangar. Do you have everything you need?"

"I think so," I replied, patting down the folds of the dress as if looking for pockets. "I don't need to carry anything, do I? I don't have my comlink."

"You shouldn't be too far from us at any given time," Obi-Wan reminded. "You won't need it."

"Good, because I don't have anywhere to put it." Te had offered me some lipstick, but after applying it I left it in her quarters, having no means of carrying it without asking one of the Jedi to put it in a belt pouch, and I felt even sillier than usual doing that. "Okay, then. I think I'm ready." I glanced up at Qui-Gon as the Padawan moved past us toward the door. "Everything looks okay?"

The lines at the corners of his eyes sprang to life as he smiled warmly, allowing himself to show an emotion he usually kept locked away tightly. "I didn't think it possible for you to be any more beautiful, but you have proved me wrong. This is simply stunning."

"You're biased," I chided him with a grin.

Qui-Gon laughed gently as he gazed down at me. "Yes, I am," he admitted. "It is the only time in my life when I will not only accept that I am biased..." His fingertips fluttered against my cheek. "...but I think it is not wrong of me to be so."

*****

The largest Earth cities I had been to, and been downtown on a Saturday night in, were Toronto and Chicago. Being "out," in the entertainment districts of the region of Coruscant known as Galactic City on the Eve of the New Year, blew all my previous experiences away. The three of us sat together in the rear compartment of a regular old air taxi, myself wedged between the Jedi, and thankfully so - the air was cold, and the light shawl hanging from my arms did not offer any protection. Snuggled between the great draping sleeves of their robes kept me plenty warm through the long trip. We flew through clusters of tall towers, past domes and needles, dropping down from the static lanes of traffic to weave among the lower levels of Coruscant where buildings closed in like canyon walls and hardly any of the blue-black sky could be glimpsed. All of it glimmered and glowed with millions of lights, each one poor and dim alone but contributing to a greater whole. When we passed the Senate dome, Qui-Gon explained to me that the reception was being held in a private hall, not in the chancellor's estate or anything. Not far beyond the Promenade of the Senate the taxi winged upward, toward the crowns of taller towers, finally approaching a skydock high on the side of a spire, its gleaming transparisteel-fronted façade reflecting hundreds of running lights as private coaches and shuttles glided in to deposit well-dressed patrons at the entrance to the reception hall. Eschewing notoriety, Master Qui-Gon directed the driver to let us off at the end of the platform, out of the way of the worst traffic, where we could casually meld with the stream of dignitaries and diplomats making their way inside. Obi-Wan stepped out first, reaching to help me out, and the tomboy in me went off somewhere to sulk in a corner while I let myself be treated like a woman. I alighted easily on the platform and checked to make sure Qui-Gon wasn't trampling on the trailing edge of my dress; he stepped smoothly from the taxi and dismissed it, offering me his arm. I had to have been the only woman there on the arms of two men, not to mention the only one escorted by Jedi. It was definitely worth being squeezed into that dress.

The private reception hall made up the entire floor of the building, and every inch of it belonged tonight to the Chancellor's party. It was the topmost level, too, save for extravagant balconies and observation decks that overlooked both the hall and the view of Coruscant, but I didn't see those until later, when we were fully inside. First, we had to pass through a main door flanked by blue-robed Coruscant guards, trying not to get in the way of more important or famous guests, around whom hover-cameras and reporters flocked. We were able to enter more or less unmolested, as no one knew who I was and Qui-Gon mind-tricked the only reporter accosting us into thinking we were being followed by some celebrity far more interesting. My eyes darted everywhere, dazzled by the decorations and sheer opulence of the hall, and we hadn't even entered the main area yet. Some guests were mingling out in this foyer, but most were heading straight for a grand arched entryway decked out in lights, so Qui-Gon steered us into the flow of traffic and let it sweep us along. Right at the door there was a brief jam, as a little man in strict but elegant robes checked each invitation and could be heard announcing some guests. None of us had said a word to each other since disembarking, but I was too caught up in the splendor and spectacle to form words in the first place. Soon enough it was our turn, and the attendant gave the Jedi a startled look. "Guest name?" he stammered, unsure whether it was them or me.

"Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn." Qui-Gon flashed me a brief smile to put me at ease.

"Ah, right. Here it is. '...and apprentice, and guest?'" The attendant counted and nodded in satisfaction. "Yes, I see. Do you wish to be announced?"

"No, thank you." The Master nodded back, and escorted me delicately into the hall.

I failed utterly to keep my mouth from falling open. Huge was not a big enough word to describe the place. We stood at the top of a magnificent but short staircase, plush blue carpet running down the marble to the main floor filled with beings of all races, shapes, sizes, and colors. At the far end, curving ramps and stairs led up to the observation balconies, and beyond the hung lights, chandeliers, swags, and garlands adorning it, I could see the black night pressing on the transparent high ceiling. An actual fountain stood between the arms of the staircases leading to the balconies, around which an orchestra of sorts was arranged. A fantastic buffet spread lined another wall, and cushy chairs and lounges were scattered all around the perimeter of the hall. I presumed the center was a dance floor, but for now most of the guests were just standing around, talking and eating, drinks in their hands. An attendant took my shawl before we descended the stairs, one slow step at a time, and my insignificance among it all became painfully obvious. There were so many people, and I didn't know a single one. Some of them could have been lords, kings and queens, surely many were representatives of their worlds. Yet, even the mightiest king could not compare to the status of one man who was actually making his way toward us at this very moment. I stiffened and swallowed my trepidation as Supreme Chancellor Valorum himself stepped up with a jovial smile and cried out, "Master Qui-Gon! You never cease to surprise me."

Even with my arm still tucked in the crook of his, Qui-Gon bowed deeply to the Chancellor, as did Obi-Wan on my other side. "I did say I would come," the Master pointed out as he then extended a hand and clasped Valorum's.

The Chancellor chuckled kindly. I was used to him being serious and businesslike, this side of him felt strange - but in a good way. Instead of the serene gown and blue robe, he wore what I thought amounted to a dress uniform, with a long, embroidered cloak hanging from his shoulders. "Yes, and I should know that you always make good on your threats. Padawan Kenobi..." He nodded politely at Obi-Wan, and then his gaze fell on me. "And...?" he started to say, his face lighting with faint recognition.

I met his icy eyes and smiled faintly. "Supreme Chancellor," Qui-Gon introduced, "you may recall our friend Stacey, who assisted us with the mission to Rodia some months ago?"

"Ah, yes." Valorum's smile invited me to relax. "A pleasure to meet you once again." He took my free hand and kissed it on the back of my knuckles. I tried not to giggle in giddy delight. "Such a sparkling jewel is a welcome addition to this little party. I'm glad you came."

"Thank you for letting Master Qui-Gon bring a guest," I said demurely. "I'm honored to be able to be here."

The Chancellor nodded graciously, and I thought a look passed between him and Qui-Gon. "I rarely indulge in this sort of thing, but the New Year's Fête brings out the joy in everyone. I hope there is enough to keep your attention, Master. Food and drink can be had over there..." He gestured with a broad sweep of his arm that conspicuously draped the cloak in a regal way. "...the dance begins in an hour, and I have asked a troupe from the Daman Sirc to perform later on."

The Master raised his eyebrows. "Really? The Sirc? One might wonder if you were trying to impress your guests, Chancellor, rather than them impressing you."

Valorum chuckled again, knowingly. "This isn't work, Qui-Gon, it's pleasure. Forget about politics and enjoy yourself. Have a drink. At the very least, entertain your consort."

"You know Jedi do not keep consorts," Qui-Gon casually remarked.

"Oh, good! Then, you won't mind if I ask your friend to save a dance for me."

I nearly choked. Giving Chancellor Valorum a timid look, I stammered, "But...I don't really, I...I can't dance."

Beside me, I heard Obi-Wan say, in his most innocuous voice, "You've danced with both myself and Master Qui-Gon before."

Now it was Valorum's turn to cough, his eyes flying wide in surprise as he turned them on the Master. "Qui-Gon Jinn dances?"

Qui-Gon did not appear ruffled, but I had a feeling both he and I would kill Obi-Wan later for that remark. Instead, he gave me a cool glance. "I'm sure Stacey would be pleased to have a dance, Chancellor. You'll be able to find us when it's time."

Valorum smirked at him and gave me an elegant bow. "I would be honored, my lady. Ah...if you will excuse me?" The Jedi nodded to him, allowing him to depart to greet another guest who had just come down the staircase.

I clutched Qui-Gon's arm in a death grip as he steered me along the fringes of the crowd, in the general direction of the food. "I can't believe you just did that!" I hissed at him. "Chancellor Valorum wants to dance with me?"

"If I were you, I would be extremely honored," the Master chided.

"Well, I am," I insisted, "but...oh my gosh! The Supreme Chancellor! I'm going to look like such an idiot!"

Obi-Wan chuckled throatily behind me. "And you're no help!" I added, turning to point at him.

"I'm only taking the Supreme Chancellor's advice," he dryly stated, "and making sure you enjoy yourself."

I calmed down somewhat the further we moved away from the murmuring crowd, the more I felt the presence of my two Jedi protecting me. "Will you dance with me, too, then?"

"If you wish," Obi-Wan smiled.

"Would you like something to drink?" Qui-Gon offered, finally disengaging his arm from my hand.

I laid a hand on my unhappy stomach, cinched tight inside the bodice of the dress. "Actually, I'm really hungry. I haven't had anything to eat since noon."

"I will bring you something." Inclining his head respectfully, the Master turned and strode gracefully away into the crowds.

Still patting my stomach - more for the novelty of how flat it felt for once than for its hunger - I took a deep, calming breath and looked around. A steady babble filled the room as hundreds of voices conversed with one another, though nearer to me I could hear an occasional laugh rising above the murmur. One sweep of my eyes across the immediate vicinity revealed all kinds of different creatures, some familiar, some quite unusual. All were more or less dressed nicely, in brocaded robes, flattering dresses, and glittering jewels, according to the style best befitting their race. The shining metal bodies of a few protocol droids meandered among them, carrying on intense translation duties for their masters. Obi-Wan stood guard beside me, his gaze also on the incredible spectacle beyond us, his gorgeous eyes turned blue by the bright lights flooding the hall with golden radiance. I forgot about the party for a second and stared at him instead, at his noble profile, at the sharply-defined tendons in his neck peeking above the high collar of his dress tunics. He felt me watching and smiled in my direction. "See anything interesting?"

"Maybe," I smiled back, looking away bashfully. "Man, look at this place. I know I keep saying this every time you guys take me someplace new, but I've never been anywhere like this before." I lifted my gaze to the chandeliers, and the glass ceiling criss-crossed by holiday decorations. It felt like I had walked into the middle of a Travel Channel special on luxury hotels or White House banquets. The cost of the decorations alone could have fed a small planet's population for a month. "Extravagant doesn't even begin to cover it."

"I was thinking more along the lines of 'outrageous' myself," the Padawan mused. "I recognize many faces I've never actually seen in person before - there are many notable senators and ambassadors here."

"Sucking up to Chancellor Valorum, no doubt," I snorted.

Qui-Gon returned about then, doing an extraordinary balancing act with three drinks and a small dish of food, which he presented to me. "Mushrooms?"

"Ooo!" One of the happiest things I had discovered about food in this galaxy was that certain varieties of mushrooms were just as popular and edible as they were in my own. I loved mushrooms. "Thank you, Master!" I gushed as I took the plate and sampled one of the appetizers. Heavenly!

Obi-Wan sipped at the drink his Master had brought him. "Well, Master? What do you think?"

"This could be interesting," Qui-Gon shrugged as he lifted his glass to his lips. He did the same as Obi-Wan and I, and roved the throng of miscellaneous beings with his eyes. "I've never been to a government function as large as this, yet I feel no need to keep my guard up."

"Chancellor Valorum is not using it to raise funds for his next campaign," Obi-Wan noted, lowering his voice to that of a private conversation. "Everyone is very relaxed, it truly is just a holiday party."

"All the same, try not to become too comfortable, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon suggested with a smirk. "I see all kinds here, including many I would not trust." Taking another sip, he dropped his authoritative tone and smiled at me. "Would you like to take a walk around?"

I popped the last mushroom into my mouth. "Erm, sure," I said as I swallowed. I didn't know what to do with the empty plate, but fortunately, right at that moment a waiter of some kind passed by and took it for me. Impressed, I giggled to myself and raised my drink to toast the Master. "All right. Let's go."

"I want to have a look at the buffet," Obi-Wan said with an ill-disguised grin. "I will catch up with you later."

Qui-Gon nodded his acceptance, and we drifted away in two different directions. Laying my hand in the crook of the Master's arm again, I let him lead the way through the crowd, moving at an unhurried pace in the general direction of one of the stairways up to the observation decks. I could see pillared doorways set into the wall beneath the upper level, leading out into corridors where more people stood in small knots talking and eating, and presumably to important things like refreshers. Not many people noticed our passing, but every once in a while someone would look up just at the right moment, necessitating a nod or smile of greeting. One or two recognized Qui-Gon, if not by name at least by station, and seemed to straighten up or do their best to look innocent as a Jedi passed by. He was not here on business, however, and took no notice of them. Chivalrously taking my drink so I could raise up my skirt to navigate the stairs safely, he brought me up to one of the balconies and escorted me to the window to look out over Coruscant. The view was incredible, one of those worth paying whatever money a reception hall like this must have cost just to be able to show off. I savored it for a few moments before turning my back on the dizzying sight of tall buildings plunging down into shadow far below us and smiling up at my escort. He returned my gaze and my smile, a subtle light awakening in his eyes that I had by now learned to interpret. "Well?" he prompted. "Now what is your opinion of this...opportunity?"

Yeah, he had me. "All right, I admit it," I groaned comically. "This is really stinking cool. Not that I want to make a habit of it, but for once-in-a-lifetime events, it definitely doesn't suck."

An eyebrow twitched curiously. "An interesting choice of words."

"Well, you know me." A lot of partygoers were wanting to take a peek at the view, so I glided away from the windows and crossed to the balustrade, peering over it to the crowded dance floor below. Immediately between the arms of the staircases and just in front of the fountain, places were set up for an entire orchestra, but for now a mere handful of players sent up very mellow, low-volume mood music for the arrivals and mingling. I leaned on the balustrade and took a few silent moments to just watch people, since there was such a fascinating variety parading before my eyes. My protector shadowed me, his huge form impossible to ignore even when I wasn't looking at him, only sensing the proximity of his body. I glanced to my right as one large, stable hand came to rest on the balustrade next to my elbow. "Look at all of them," I mused. "I could stand right here the rest of the night and be entertained just trying to guess what some of them are."

"As could I," Qui-Gon agreed in a peaceful murmur. "But something tells me I would never hear the end of it if I stayed here for the rest of this party."

I looked up at him and grinned, but left the obvious unsaid. "See anybody you know?"

Qui-Gon let his eyes rove over the mass of life below. "Perhaps," he answered ambiguously. Nodding his head in one direction, he noted, "There's Chancellor Valorum again."

I followed his gaze to see the slim, silver-haired man carrying on what looked like a painfully polite conversation with a very large and unpleasant-looking alien creature swathed in a heavy cloak and leather armor. With either incredibly dumb luck or excellent timing, another guest swept in and accosted him, and I could almost hear her vociferous greeting clear across the ballroom. The big alien glowered and prowled away. "Ah, the fun of being chancellor," I laughed.

"It's all a charade," the Master commented, and I thought I heard a dark note in his voice. "I would venture to guess that less than a third of the guests here tonight can be said to actually like Valorum, either personally or professionally."

I frowned up at him. "What? But...he's always seemed like a nice guy to me."

"Chancellor Valorum is kind, and likeable," Qui-Gon explained as we both leaned on the balustrade and watched the chancellor smilingly addressing the opulently-dressed woman who had saved him from the scary alien guest. "A bit sarcastic at times, but he and I have always gotten along. I know that I would obey any order he gave me, and he likewise trusts me with his life. But everyone else here must interact with him in the political arena, where professional disagreements often become quite personal. When he makes a decision that upsets people, they naturally bicker and backbite, and small things are blown into enormous conflicts."

"Where I come from," I muttered, "if you don't like somebody in office, you don't re-elect him. If nobody likes Valorum, how come he's still Chancellor?"

A smile returned to the Master's eyes. "I didn't say nobody liked him. And of those that don't, the majority begrudgingly admit he is still a worthy leader. I would say he is the picture of the embattled general, who has to scrape and fight for the respect and obedience he deserves. But the Republic is much larger than the Chancellor alone." He shook his head and sighed. "I'm sure you don't want an earful about politics from me. What would you like to do next?"

"I dunno," I shrugged. "What else is there to do? At least at the moment." I shifted my gaze to him again. "Should we go find Obi-Wan?"

"We can make our way in that direction if you'd like." Qui-Gon offered me his arm, and I nestled my hand into the soft, fuzzy folds of his robe. I still had a little left in my glass, but heading toward the buffet and more food and drink sounded like a great plan to me.

The party had grown since we came in, filling the main floor of the gigantic ballroom to capacity with even more people in even larger outfits. We had to sidle carefully around some of them, and wait patiently for paths to clear in order to make our way across it to the fortress of buffet tables at the far side. I sipped at my glass until it was empty, and started to get frustrated with the delays in refilling it. Clusters of dignitaries kept drifting across our path, and one strange creature decided to strike up small talk with Qui-Gon for absolutely no reason other than he found it fascinating that a Jedi should be at this party. We disentangled ourselves from him as quickly as we could, finally spotting a path around the edge of the throng that led more or less to the food. Sweeping me gracefully out of the way of any grabby hands or chatty guests, Qui-Gon guided me a few steps forward and had nearly made it when a surge in the crowd forced someone to back out of the way - and into ours. We stopped just short of running into him, but Qui-Gon's sheer size was enough to attract the attention of the man, who turned. His eyes fell on the Jedi Master, and I stifled the sudden riot of reactionary emotions that stampeded to mind. "I'm so terribly sorry," he started to say, and then perked up in recognition. "Why, Master Jinn, is it? A surprise to see you here."

It was Senator Palpatine.

On to part 60

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