"No, excuse me, I was the one who fell into your way," Palpatine cordially said. "Are you on duty, Master Jedi?"

"Actually, no," Qui-Gon replied. "We are guests also."

"Well!" Palpatine exclaimed, clearly amused. "Enjoy yourselves, then." He nodded and turned back to some of the other people around him, who he must have been entertaining until the shift of the crowd sent him reeling. He gave no sign of having seen me, much less acknowledging who I was.

We finally made it across the ballroom to the buffet, and of course Obi-Wan was standing right at the end, his gaze idly roving the crowd for anything interesting as he nibbled on what looked to me like a star-shaped cutout cookie. He only gave a slight smile when he noticed us coming. "This party's getting a little crowded," he remarked when we had joined him, and I slipped past him to set my empty glass down. "There must be close to a thousand people here."

"Possibly," Qui-Gon said, turning so his back was to the wall and tables. "I expect Chancellor Valorum will address us shortly." His gaze found me lurking just beside him, and a curious look flickered on his brows. "You have closed yourself off."

"I what?" I sighed out a long, deep breath, and then blinked in astonishment as the quietness of my mind dropped away like a curtain, allowing the Master's mind to brush tentatively against mine once again. "Oh, weird," I breathed, almost to myself. "How did that happen?"

Qui-Gon held my gaze, his face showing absolutely no emotion. "You didn't do it on purpose?"

"No. I don't even remember feeling it happen." I shook my head and gave him a hesitant smile. "That's freaky. I've never been able to do that before."

Master Qui-Gon acknowledged that with a slight nod and turned toward the crowded room again. "Well. It seems there may be something we need to work on while the Senate is on recess after all."

Woo, more Force practice. Beats a poke in the eye with a sharp stick, I guess. I stood there in silence for a while, ignoring the party swirling around me as I poked mentally at the Force. How had I been able to close my mind off to the Force like that? It had always taken a concerted effort to gain control, and even then I always had trouble maintaining it very long. Inwardly, I suspected it had everything to do with the unexpected appearance of Senator Palpatine, but I could hardly share that with the Master without raising his suspicion. I hated the look he always got on his face when I tried to conceal something from him, and the disapproving tone of voice he used whenever the subject of my unique knowledge of the future came up. Shaking it off as best I could, I decided not to let the unpleasant surprise ruin my evening. At least now I knew he was around, I could keep an eye out and avoid him more easily. It wouldn't be hard in a crowd this size.

About that time, the gentle tones of the music came to a subtle halt, and the murmur of the crowd hushed in response. I looked around, unsure what was going on, but Obi-Wan touched me on the arm and directed my attention to the balcony above the orchestra and fountain, where the Master and I had been standing not too long before. The jets of water dancing merrily in the air fell suddenly into the fountain's pool with a light whisper, leaving everyone's view of the Supreme Chancellor unobstructed. Valorum stood with his arms behind his back, and I thought to myself that even his most cheerful of smiles had a severe, restrained tone to it. His rich voice boomed out over the ballroom. "My honored guests, welcome to the Great Hall of the Republic, and Happy New Year." Applause, quiet but not withheld. "Thank you for joining me on this night, on the edge of a new year and all the promise it holds. Please, enjoy yourselves. This is not a night for business, but pleasure...not for looking back, but looking ahead. I am pleased to be able to provide you with a variety of entertainment." Valorum let his gaze roam across the hall and back as he spoke. "The floor will clear soon for the dance. A little later, I am proud to announce a special performance by the Daman Sirc." The audience was very impressed by that - a powerful "ooh!" echoed through the hall. I had no idea what the Daman Sirc was, this was the second time I had heard it mentioned and so far no one told me what it meant. "And at midnight, to ring in the New Year, I have arranged a special engagement. I will only encourage you all to be up here, on this balcony, looking out over the splendor of Coruscant when the old year ends. Until then, let the night be yours!" He clapped a signal, and the orchestra - the rest of the players had snuck out during his address - started up an elegant concerto. The murmur of the crowd crept out from hiding and gradually swelled back to its previous level.

I took one look at the empty plate in Obi-Wan's hands and eyed both Jedi. "That's it. I'm hungry."

Obi-Wan gestured toward the buffet behind and beside him with the plate.

Thanks, I mentally groaned at him. "So, what's good, Mister I-want-to-investigate-the-buffet?"

"I've barely started to investigate," he corrected me. "It could take all night."

"Oh, so that's your excuse for not seeing the rest of the party - 'I was by the food all night.' I get it." He followed me as I walked along the length of the tables at the wall, weaving in and out of the assortment of guests bellying up to the buffet. Every table seemed to carry a different food group, appealing to every variety of species that might be present at the party. I steered away from unrecognizable things and focused on the multitudinous salad bowls, platters of marinated meat, and the very-well-attended dessert table. I couldn't help but coo in delight at the scent and sight of cakes, mousses, and chocolate nibbles. "I think I'm going to start here," I decided, flipping Obi-Wan a decadent grin.

"I think it's a bit early for so much sugar," he retorted. "Here, I'll show you where to start."

He dragged me back to the salad table, which I was content to make my starting point. Huge, ornate bowls were tipped on their sides, offering exotic fruits and nuts and dips of all colors. A sharply-dressed man smiled handsomely and stepped aside to give me room as I sidled shyly up alongside him. The mingled scents of sweet, juicy, tart, and sour gave the air a pungent, delicious aroma. I piled all kinds of fruit on my plate and examined the sauces, finding my eye distracted by bright colors. There were flowers clustered everywhere, but right in the middle of the fruits and vegetables sat another of the same containers filled with vividly-hued blossoms. They were right above the lineup of sauces, dips, and dressings, but there was no writing anywhere to indicate what anything was. I glanced aside at Obi-Wan, who was refilling his plate with fruit. "Um...Obi? Are these for...eating? Or decoration?"

"What?" he wondered, keeping his voice low as I did.

"Those flowers."

His brow furrowed in confusion, and he tilted his head. "Well...I'm not sure."

I giggled nervously. "So, you don't get handed flowers on your plate on a regular basis?"

To make matters worse, no one was taking any flowers from the bowl either, so we couldn't just observe someone else. "I've actually never seen it before, no," Obi-Wan answered, whispering down into my ear. "I don't know if you should touch them. Remember, some things that are staples for some species can be toxic for others."

"So it's not just decoration?"

"I don't know. It could be that, as well."

"Yeah, but..." I pointed to a spray bottle positioned artfully at the edge of the bowl. "That could be dressing, like salad dressing."

"How do you know it isn't just water?"

I burst out laughing and smacked him in the arm. "You're not making this any easier!" I exclaimed, returning my voice to normal levels. "I'm trying to learn new things, here."

"Well, I'd dare you to try it," Obi-Wan purred delicately, "but considering the bout of food poisoning I so recently endured, I'd advise you to stay away from anything unfamiliar."

"All right." I pouted comically at him. "They're pretty, though."

I filled my plate to the point of being dangerously overbalanced and hunted for an escape route, not wanting to spill my acquisition on any of the nicely-dressed and very important party guests swarming around the buffet. Spotting Qui-Gon not far away, I ducked my head and cautiously wove my way through the crowd in his general direction, trusting the Padawan to follow. As I came near, I saw that the Master was not alone, and his company was vastly more interesting than food. Beside him towered a Wookiee, the fur of his beard and head tinged with silver, wearing only a sash draped over one shoulder. Each of them had one eye on the party, but appeared to be engaged in conversation as I made my way quietly up behind Qui-Gon. Naturally, I could not sneak up on him - he turned to acknowledge me in a timely fashion. "Stacey. I would like to introduce you to Senator Yarua, from Kashyyyk."

I looked up at Yarua with wide eyes, still thrilled to meet a Wookiee after all I'd been through with Mowchie on Salji months ago. The name fired a small spark of familiarity in the back of my mind - I knew of him somehow, something about the movie. "Pleased to meet you, Senator," I stammered, trying to subtly wipe the fruit juice off my fingers.

Yarua gave a low, pleasant yowl, first to me and then directed at Qui-Gon. The Master shook his head. "She is a friend of ours, who has helped me in many missions." Yarua growled appreciatively, and Qui-Gon laughed gently.

I gave Qui-Gon a boggled look. Waiting until the senator's attention was distracted by something elsewhere, I whispered, "I didn't know you could understand Wookiee."

The Master's brow raised pleasantly. "Understand it? I can speak it."

My mouth fell open. He just chuckled and turned back to Yarua, who howled something at him at the moment. What else is there that I don't know about this man? Too surprised to comment, I decided to occupy my mouth with fruit instead.

"Actually," Qui-Gon was saying in reply, "I'm more curious about those who aren't here. No doubt some in both social and political circles find it very telling when someone is left off the chancellor's guest list." Senator Yarua shrugged and muttered something, at which both fell silent.

Obi-Wan materialized suddenly at my right shoulder. "Here," he offered.

I looked at him to see him drop a sparkly cookie onto my plate. I was right, it had been star-shaped, and distinctly chocolate. "Ooo! Thanks. Where'd you get this?"

"Try it. It's very interesting. The gold dust is actual gold."

I frowned up at him. "You can't eat gold!"

"Actually, you can."

"It won't..."

"No, it won't," Obi-Wan smiled, stifling a chuckle. "I had to grab one for you before they were all gone. They seem to be very popular."

I shook my head to myself as I picked up the cookie and looked it over, making the gilded decorations sparkle in the light. You know you're at a fancy party when they put real gold on the cookies. "I'll save it for dessert," I vowed, not sure whether I wanted to test the theory of edible metals for the sake of what smelled like excellent chocolate.

For a while we were all content to stand around in the corner, people-watching and making comments of a completely idle nature to one another, while I finished off my food and the Jedi carried on an extensive dialogue with Senator Yarua. I figured after the introductions that the Wookiee senator was among those in Qui-Gon's very small circle of trustworthy acquaintances, but since he preferred his native language to Basic, I was left out of the conversation. Before I knew it, the lights at the fringes of the great hall dimmed, and there seemed to be a bit of shift to the crowd in the center. Craning my neck, I could see attendants cleverly clearing the paneled dance floor, effortlessly directing traffic to its edges without shoving anybody up against the walls. The chandeliers above the dance floor shimmered elegantly as the orchestra changed from mellow symphonies to a distinctive waltz, and without a word of direction, people stepped out to begin the dance. Watching them made me even more nervous about the Chancellor's threat, as I definitely did not belong among that gorgeous and notable crowd. Senator Yarua finally departed to meet other friends, leaving me alone with my Jedi escorts at last. I studied them for a moment, a little surprised and a lot happy that they seemed to be enjoying themselves. A tiny smile remained on Obi-Wan's face, and he was quick to chuckle at something his Master said as they turned toward me. Qui-Gon's gray eyes gleamed with energy that only grew more intense as he settled his gaze on me. "I hope you're not intent on hiding here in the corner all night."

I glanced around; I hadn't realized we had tucked ourselves away in the corner, in a quiet spot along the wall near one of the doors leading to the outer corridor. "No, not really. Why?" I narrowed my eyes. "Is this your way of asking me to dance?"

Qui-Gon visibly paused, considering it before smiling more strongly. "Not quite, I'm in no hurry to embarrass myself on the dance floor." He added a thinly-disguised look of discontent directed at Obi-Wan, who seemed quite pleased with himself for receiving it. "But, I think you may be interested in getting closer to have a better view of the Daman Sirc."

He offered me his arm, which I took so he could direct me in the direction he intended. "All right, that's like the third time I've heard that name tonight," I groused. "What is this Daman Sirc?"

"A performance troupe. Acrobats, dancers, and illusionists mainly," he replied casually as he navigated the crowd. "I'm not sure if Chancellor Valorum has called in the entire Sirc, or just selected performers, but it should be worth seeing. I've never seen it personally but they're extremely popular throughout the galaxy."

"They were even accused by the media of hiring Jedi, or at least Force-sensitives, some of their tricks are so unusual," Obi-Wan put in. "But the Jedi have no knowledge of anyone using the Force among the troupe. It's all skill and athletics."

The odd word finally sunk in - Sirc, like cirque. Basic already had enough in common with Earth languages, I should have realized it. "I see," I idly mused. "Sounds like it could be cool."

Master Qui-Gon kept a lookout for familiar, or at least non-hostile, faces in the crowd as he chose a spot from which we would presumably have the best view. I mostly watched the blur of figures moving around the dance floor, of which I could only catch glimpses between the press of bodies as we made a circuit of the central part of the hall. I felt myself tugged to a stop, and turned to see that the Jedi had been engaged in conversation by another guest, a strange man with a weathered face who reminded me very much of a chieftain of the South Pacific. He wasn't wearing much in comparison to the other guests, but he didn't look out of place for some reason. He guffawed loudly and clapped Qui-Gon heartily on the shoulder, and then clasped Obi-Wan's hand with great respect. "We never did have the opportunity to meet," he was saying to the Padawan. "It is a pleasure, at last."

"For me as well, Your Highness," Obi-Wan said kindly with a slight bow. "I will forever be grateful that your gods granted my Master such mercy for disobeying them for my sake."

The king chuckled again, his whole chest heaving and making the multitude of beaded necklaces jingle. "The gods may be strict, but they are not unjust."

An attendant or bodyguard of some kind stood beside him, dressed a little less brightly but in the same manner as his chieftain, with an armed bandolier over his chest. His smiling eyes were focused entirely on Qui-Gon. "It has been a long time, hasn't it?" he said at last.

A respectful warmth lit the Master's eyes. "It has indeed. It's good to see you're still in command after all this time."

"When the Oracle pardoned me, I repaid the mercy shown me by devoting my life to serving the King," the bodyguard explained. "We have had peace all these years. It is more than I could have asked for."

Qui-Gon turned to me. "Stacey, may I introduce to you King Orthu Bela, the leader of a small world called Triki. And his personal guard, General Molu." To them, he added, "This is a close personal friend of Obi-Wan's and mine, her name is Stacey."

I bobbed my head in acknowledgement. "Nice to meet you."

"Likewise," Orthu Bela boomed jovially, lacing his fingers together. "My, but you sparkle like the stars! How does a Jedi come to have such a gem at his side?" He laughed, but the question seemed to be rhetorical.

They seemed quite willing to launch into reminiscence and relations, but at that moment the orchestra fell silent and the lights in the hall changed dramatically. Qui-Gon looked up at the ceiling. "It must be time for the Daman Sirc."

"This is a new thing, I know nothing about it," the king muttered.

"Then, I suspect you may be in for a pleasant surprise," the Master suggested.

I followed his gaze to see that most of the lights were now directed to the sparkling decorations draped from the ceiling, only now they didn't look so much like decorations. Acrobatic apparatus had been hidden behind the bangles and swags, but it appeared suddenly with a crash of music as a slender young woman on a swing descended in a swirling arc toward the middle of the dance floor. About halfway down, I realized she was a Twi'lek - the costume hid it mostly, but I spotted her wrapped head-tails at last. She draped herself gracefully around the swing and fawned at the audience, entering into a routine of contortionist moves and acrobatics in time with the music that had everyone, me included, either wincing or gasping in wonder. And she was but the opening act. The Daman Sirc proved to be incredible, the performers running a range of species, some of whom had natural advantages that lent more easily - or more aesthetically interesting flair - to the stunning gymnastic routines. Plus, there were drummers, and dancers, and lots of bright colors and fabulous costumes. I had never seen in person the Earthly circus that could have easily been this Daman's counterpart, so I just stood there with my neck craned up and back, my mouth slack in awe. The only drawback was the length of the performance. It seemed to be over far too quickly, and the grand hall erupted with thundering applause and cries of encouragement (and encore) from all corners. The Sirc performers made their exit via the crowded floor, running and skipping and slithering all through the guests like jesters, engaging some in brief dances as the orchestra struck up a lively jig to accompany their departure. I stood there clapping until well after every last acrobat had left the hall one way or another. At last the Twi'lek contortionist wrapped her slender legs around the swing and let it take her straight up until she disappeared into the ceiling.

Master Qui-Gon turned to the Trikans. "I suspect you've never seen something quite like that."

Orthu Bela was gaping open-mouthed at the sensuous exit taken by the swinger. He looked at Qui-Gon, and then shook himself and snorted in derision. "Amateurs. You should see the tribal dances at harvest time - now that's a spectacle!" He chortled and ribbed Obi-Wan, almost knocking him over.

Qui-Gon laughed, and then turned to me. "What did you think?"

"Wow," I said with a grin in return. "That was really cool. We do have something like it on Earth, though."

His eyebrows lifted. "Oh?"

"Yeah. But I've never seen it personally, so this definitely takes the cake." I looked happily around as the dance resumed where it left off and people made their way back out onto the main floor, now that it was clear of acrobats. "This is quite the party. I'll have to tell the Chancellor I'm impressed."

"You may get that chance." Qui-Gon nodded to indicate the man himself wandering through the crowd accepting well-wishes and gracious compliments from his guests over the special treat they had just witnessed. He didn't seem to be on a particular path, but he was eventually going to come our way. I nervously swallowed my words and ducked behind the Master.

A few minutes later, Valorum spotted us from a few feet away and deliberately altered course to say hello. "Well, Master?" he wondered. "Was that not worth sneaking out of the Jedi Temple tonight to see?"

"It was excellent, thank you," Qui-Gon agreed.

Chancellor Valorum's tight, polite smile could not hide the delight in his eyes. Even without the Force, I could tell that it gave him a thrill to have made Qui-Gon smile. "I'm glad you think so. I should hate to think that even a Jedi would be bored at a party of mine." His eyes went around to all of us, and I couldn't hide any longer. A look of recognition crossed his face. "Ah, that's right. I had asked you to save me a dance." He bowed and held out a hand. "Would now be an appropriate time to collect?"

Though every one of my limbs seemed paralyzed by fear, I found myself gingerly placing my hand in his. "Um...sure," I nervously stammered. "Just...know that I'm not a very good dancer."

"Nonsense." His dark eyes gleamed as he drew me to him. "Trust my lead, and you'll do fine, I'm sure. Don't worry," he added with an amused chuckle. "I'll return you to your Jedi escorts in one piece."

Drat, he can tell I'm freaking out. I did my best to smile and not break into hysterical giggles, giving Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan one quick, uncertain glance over my shoulder as I was escorted away from them. They both wore looks like my predicament was the most hilarious thing they'd seen in a long time. Okay, I vowed to myself, you're both going to get it later.

The orchestra had summoned up a set of long, gentle, gliding waltzes, the beat not overly strong so that anyone failing to keep time with it wouldn't look a complete fool. I couldn't help but feel the multitude of eyes on me as partygoers noticed the Supreme Chancellor coming onto the floor - anyone he chose to dance with became the immediate subject of scrutiny and question with these people. But I wasn't a great leader of a nation or a planet, or an ambassador or senator or anything remotely noteworthy, I just happened to be a companion of Qui-Gon Jinn. Yet, Valorum treated me as if I could have been any of the former, elegantly taking my right hand and placing his on my waist just in time to sweep me into the dance. I completely failed to think, and that saved me, for the Chancellor definitely knew what he was doing. In moments it all came together, and I barely had a chance to realize just what I was doing before I fell into step and dared to look up at the sharp-eyed, severe face of the man leading me across the floor. "And what about you?" he finally said to me. "Did you enjoy the Daman Sirc?"

"Yes, very much, thank you," I said, feeling like a babbling idiot. "It was impressive."

"Good, good." He gracefully pulled me out of the way of someone who definitely should not have been trying to dance. "So. When Master Qui-Gon said he wanted to bring a guest, I had no idea."

"It's not what you think," I tried to explain, though I had absolutely no idea what else it could be. I even forgot the story we had made up in case anyone asked how I came to be in the company of two Jedi.

A keen look came into Valorum's eyes. "Don't worry," he said smoothly, dropping his voice so that only I could have heard him over the music. "I know who you are. The Jedi Council allowed me to know, some time ago, for I was curious when I heard Qui-Gon Jinn had been made a guardian. Whatever reason compelled you to seek asylum," he added with an almost sympathetic smile, "I hope this is but small reward for making such a difficult decision."

I relaxed immediately. So, he knows I'm a ward, but he doesn't know why. Interesting. "Thank you, Chancellor," I said quietly as he whirled me around the dance floor. "Believe me, this is more than I could have ever dreamed."

"Please," he said charmingly, "call me Finis."

Oh god, don't tell me he really is flirting with me! I just grinned and let it go, falling into the rhythm of his steps as he guided. He really was an excellent dancer, I presumed that perhaps a very long political career such as his would have given him plenty of opportunities to practice. We chatted a little as the song wore on, not about my life or circumstances, or about his work, just about the party and the music and how nice this all was. When the orchestra finally drew the piece to a close, Finis bowed magnificently and led me back to where the Jedi were waiting. They small-talked for a bit, and the chancellor left us laughing to himself, having done his best to chide the Master about his own dancing abilities which were yet unproven this night. I was still laughing when he'd gone. Qui-Gon only tucked his hands into his robe sleeves and gazed down at me. "I trust you didn't fall on your face, like you feared?"

"No," I giggled. "Finis is a very good dancer, he made sure I did okay."

One eyebrow arched itself at me. "You're on a first-name basis with the Supreme Chancellor."

"So are you." I stuck my tongue out at him, and then burst into giggles at the expression it provoked. "So, are you going to take that from him? He said you have to prove your skills or he won't believe that you actually do dance."

"Later," Qui-Gon promised dryly. "The floor seems a bit busy at the moment."

I sighed comically. "Excuses, excuses. Obi-Wan?"

He looked a bit taken aback, but then smiled confidently. "Very well. I accept your challenge."

I slipped my hand into the crook of his arm and tossed the Master a smug grin over my shoulder as we sauntered away, back to the dance floor. Qui-Gon wasn't kidding, though, the place was definitely packed now with the party moving into prime time and everyone being in high spirits thanks to food, drink, and the Daman Sirc. It took us a few moments to find a gap to slip into, but then I was alone in the throng with Obi-Wan, his hand in mine subtly more gentle than the chancellor's, his body just that much closer to mine. The hand on the small of my back held tightly, but still hesitated, being cautious about its exact placement. It wasn't a rain-soaked balcony on Chad, but it was good enough for us. I had no trouble keeping my eyes focused on his this time, not looking away over his shoulder or somewhere else like I had with Chancellor Valorum. I lost myself for a while, and kept Obi-Wan in my arms for several songs until it became simply too crowded to continue without pausing and breaking stride now and again so as not to run into someone. We melted back into the party's edge and stopped to catch our breath, trying to keep our entwined hands from being noticed by anyone else. Obi-Wan shyly looked away, pretending to find the rest of the hall more interesting. I gave his hand a squeeze. "I've got to go take care of something," I murmured, leaning up to deliver the message to his ear. "I'll be right back."

"I will be over where Master Qui-Gon is, when you return," he said. We nodded at each other in acceptance of the directions, and parted reluctantly.

After however many drinks and the buffet, it was time to find a refresher. I guessed it was out in the corridor that ran to the outside of the great hall, where I had watched people duck in and out all night. Hoping to find signs or maybe some attendant of some kind to direct me, I took a deep breath and let it out slowly, feeling my heart warming with delight and contentment. What a splendid party it was, and I had utterly given up complaining about the dress and the trappings and everything else. It still wasn't something I felt the inkling to do on a regular basis, but at least the night was turning out nothing short of perfect. I stepped into the corridor and took another long breath, this time because the air out here was cooler and fresher than in the middle of the great hall full of people. No wonder it was so crowded in there, for this hallway was almost deserted. I distracted myself glancing out the paneled windows that ran the length of the corridor before I finally found the sign I wanted, and ducked into the ladies' lounge. No one else was around when I came out of the refresher, so I spent a few minutes at the mirror tucking flyaway strands of hair back into the knot and adjusting the star pin, which was starting to drag a little off one side of my head. Finished, I let my hands fall to my sides and shook my head at my reflection. "I hope you realize how lucky you are," I told it, smirking. The mirror just smirked back, and I gave myself a tiny laugh before heading back into the long corridor, lest another guest come in and catch me talking to myself.

Passing an elegant female something-or-other in a very large headdress, bowing my head respectfully to her, I decided to take my time getting back to the Jedi, wanting to savor the cooler, fresher air as long as possible before being subjected to the hot press of fancy-garbed bodies again. The door nearest to their position was all the way up the corridor anyway, forcing me to pass by yards and yards of windows looking out on the magnificent Coruscant skyline, and with the approach of midnight the world seemed to have gone wild with light. I paused to take in the swaying of distant beacons, the flash of neon-like signs on the sides of buildings, and the way some of the traffic lanes were being diverted from the airspace immediately around this structure. Someone passed by behind me, and the mere brush of air woke me up, so I reluctantly pulled myself away from the view and resumed the long trek back to the correct door. A lot of the other doors along the way had been closed, I noticed. But I hadn't gone five steps when someone came out of one and crossed my path, almost deliberately I thought, and I looked sharply up to find Senator Palpatine smiling down at me. My brain went into instant paralysis, bringing the rest of me to a halt. "Why, hello there," he said pleasantly, as if just noticing me for the first time. "You're that friend of Master Jinn's, aren't you? How nice to see you here."

"Um...yeah," I managed to say. He stood between me and the rest of the corridor, blocking my escape whether he realized it or not. He didn't show signs of being belligerent, nor did he even lay a hand on me, but I got the distinct feeling that this wasn't just a casual hello. I mustered up my courage and added, "...Senator."

"I apologize," he said, oozing sincere regret, "that I don't recall your name."

Well, this is no time to just cut and run. Gotta play the game. "It's Stacey."

"Ah yes." Palpatine nodded slowly. "I saw you earlier, with the Jedi Master. I didn't know a young woman from Salji warranted an invitation to a function such as this."

I put on a polite smile, not wanting to annoy him but hoping to talk my way out of this very quickly. Mentally, I began to scream bloody murder in the direction of my guardians, hoping the vibes would provoke the Force enough to get one's attention. "I'm not from Salji," I said demurely.

He nodded again, and I swore I could see a glimmer in his eyes that clearly admitted that he knew this already. "Of course," he said kindly. "You were merely involved with the mission temporarily. That must be why you're here."

His tone was too nice, it was irritating me. He was fishing for information, and I had to be careful not to give him any. "I don't know what you mean," I politely denied, faking another smile. "Honestly, Senator, I'm just a friend of Master Jinn's. I don't get tangled up in their Jedi stuff." Come on, come on! One of you guys has to hear me! Where are you?

Palpatine looked extremely interested in that. "Is that so? My, I didn't know Jedi took their friends on missions."

Oh crap. "It's a very long story, actually, one that Master Jinn is most qualified to tell," I stammered, still trying to keep a flighty smile pasted to my face. "Perhaps you'd like to ask him? He is just inside, I was on my way back to him when I ran into you. I'm sure he'd love to spin you a good story."

The senator kept smiling, but it seemed to take on a very slight cutting tone - if it were possible to detect that change. It might have just been me projecting my fear and loathing of this man onto him. "That must have been very exciting," he said, still sounding pleasant. "I should love to hear about your adventures. Perhaps I could buy you a drink..."

"Sorry," I interrupted with a nervous laugh, "I don't drink." Where are you guys?!

"A pity." Senator Palpatine tapped a finger thoughtfully against his lips. "Someone as unique as yourself must have a grand palette of fascinating stories at her disposal."

I twisted one hand in the other, feigning a level of coquettish blondness that I didn't even think myself capable of displaying. "Me? Unique? Hardly, Senator. I'm so not...anything to be concerned about. I'm just your average girl." This was starting to get scary. "But thank you, I'm very flattered."

He merely shifted to the other foot, but I backed a step away as if he had lunged for me. "Come now, my dear," he encouraged. "The Jedi do not take interest in just anyone. I'm well aware of that."

Bloody hell! Doesn't he ever give up? I can't keep this up any longer! "I wouldn't know anything about that," I said falteringly, losing my grip on the fluffy façade I was trying to show him to keep him from spying deeper thoughts worth testing. "But...if you'll excuse me, Master Jinn is expecting me."

"Well, don't let me keep you," Palpatine enthused, but he didn't move an inch. Clasping his hands before him, he gazed down at me with a completely controlled smile. "I say, do ever you find yourself near Senate offices? I think I might have seen you in the halls somewhere."

"Senate, me?" I blurted out, losing it entirely. "No, I never go near the Senate. I'm not a politician. Sorry, Senator."

"Oh, but I'm quite certain I may have seen you around," he pressed, the smile definitely becoming as sharp as a blade. "You don't always stay in hiding."

Finally, someone responded to my mental scream: Obi-Wan drifted around a distant corner at a good clip, his robe trailing elegantly behind him. His brow furrowed when he saw me, as if unsure what I had been so alarmed about when he could see that I was certainly in no mortal danger. Senator Palpatine must have seen my gaze shoot beyond him, for he glanced over his shoulder and also spotted the Padawan, though he gave no sign of having done so. Instead, he took a piece of jewelry out of his pocket and flipped it open - a watch. "Oh dear. It's very near midnight. My apologies," he said quietly, that blasted smile still stretched across his wrinkled face. "I didn't mean to keep you so long. I'm sure your friends must be waiting for you. Take care of yourself." He turned a shoulder and vanished almost instantly through the nearby door to the grand hall, letting it close behind him with a quiet click.

Seconds later, Obi-Wan arrived at my side, giving the corridor a quick glance before settling his eyes on me. "There you are," he tactfully said, infusing his voice with amusement and patience that he certainly didn't feel. "I've been looking for you. The pyrotechnics are about to start, I didn't think you would want to miss them."

"Pyrotechnics?" I queried. "Oh! Yeah."

His eyes narrowed slightly, as he dropped the façade now that he was sure we were alone. "Is something the matter? I sensed you were...upset, for lack of a better word."

I met his eyes, a little concerned. "You didn't see anyone else here in the corridor?"

He shook his head slightly, making his braid jiggle a bit. "No, I don't think so. Was someone here bothering you?"

I let out a tired sigh. Bloody hell. "No, not really. It's just...someone I didn't know, must have had too much to drink. You know that story. He must have seen you coming and bolted, it's all right now. Just let it go."

Obi-Wan didn't look like he was going to let it go. His blue eyes were serious. "Then it's a good thing I felt the disturbance you were creating in the Force. Perhaps you shouldn't go wandering off alone."

"You're not coming with me every time I have to go to the bathroom," I grumbled. "It's okay, it was just a little thing. It's over, the guy's gone, I just want to put it behind me. It's getting close to midnight, isn't it?"

He could tell I was trying to gloss something over, but at my request he let it be. Giving the corridor one more glance to inspect it for more drunken diplomats making passes at innocent girls, he turned and offered me his arm. "Yes, it's almost time. The pyrotechnics are set to go off at the stroke of midnight to bring in the New Year."

"Let's go, then." I placed a hand on Obi-Wan's arm, allowing him to lead me back to the proper door and the safety of the crowded hall. Well, fireworks should cheer me up after that.

People were still dancing when we came inside and looked around, though a good portion of the crowd had shifted toward the balcony overlooking the orchestra. Those giant windows I had peered out earlier in the night would give a grand view of the pyrotechnic display. Master Qui-Gon was actually nowhere near where I'd seen him last, but Obi-Wan knew where to find him and brought me there without a single misstep. The Master turned to regard me as I came to his side. "Is everything all right?" he wondered, somewhat casually.

"Someone was bothering her in the outer hallway," Obi-Wan reported before I could say anything.

Qui-Gon's eyes immediately became hard, and he completely faced me. "Who was it?"

"No one important," I sighed tiredly. "Just some stranger, I don't even know what species he was. I'm sure he just had too much to drink and made a bad decision. He's gone, don't worry about it."

Qui-Gon was not convinced. "If someone accosted you, you should report it to security. Chancellor Valorum would not want such a thing to happen to anyone at his party."

"Master, please." I shook my head. "I don't want to make trouble, especially if he was some kind of big-shot. I'm sure it won't happen again. I'm fine, no harm committed. Really." I punctuated my demand with a studious glare.

He sighed shortly, but refused to argue with me any further. "If you insist," he quietly relented. "But if you see this stranger again, I should like to know who he is."

"If I see him, I'll let you know," I grumbled, turning away from him. I didn't know how much he could sense in me at the moment, whether he knew my story was a complete fabrication, but I didn't care. Running into Palpatine alone like that soured my mood, and the delay before a Jedi finally got the message I was trying to project didn't help it any. The only thing to do, though, was put it out of my mind and enjoy the fireworks. I loved fireworks, and hoped as the night began to rush toward the magic hour that seeing some would pick me back up.

The acrobats from the Daman Sirc returned to the hall fifteen minutes before midnight, cavorting among the guests to get them excited for the New Year's arrival. I was annoyed, however, by the clown that danced around us, so Qui-Gon expertly navigated a way through the pack of people around the stairs to a little corner of the balcony that seemed to have gone unnoticed. There was just enough room for me to stand right at the window, next to a potted plant, while the Jedi could see over my head. The orchestra faded into a gentle but tense sort of mood-building tune, ending the dance temporarily, and the lights in the hall dimmed to darkness. A thrilled murmur among the crowd almost drowned out the last strains of music, as everyone kept an eye on the time and the windows. I wondered if there would be a countdown, when an explosion outside seemed to answer my question for me - it marked thirty seconds. Another small concussion went off at fifteen, then at ten and every second following to the zero hour, when an enormous blaze of fireworks turned the night into day and the party erupted with one great cheer. Even in my foul mood I couldn't help but smile, and watch in silent awe at the continuing display of bright stars and exploding flowers dripping sparks over Coruscant. We could barely hear the pop of the fireworks through the windows, but they were close enough that I could distinguish them from the sounds of the party swirling around me. Polite applause met some of the coolest displays, but mostly people talked amongst themselves and raised their glasses to the New Year while they watched. After a time, my mind dredged up a singular Star Wars memory - the changed ending of Return of the Jedi, when fireworks were lit over Coruscant just like this at the news of the fall of the Emperor. A sly smile returned to my face at last, remembering that the man I had just been accosted by in the hallway about a half an hour ago, who indeed might rise to terrible power through cruelty and darkness, would be toppled by the Rebellion and inspire a celebration just like the one I was witnessing. For just a moment, it didn't seem so bad.

Unfortunately, as the glowing cinders of the grand finale faded, so did my enjoyment of the evening, and the disturbed mood brought on by my encounter in the back hallway crept back up on me. I couldn't muster an enthusiastic response to the fireworks, not even when asked by the Jedi, and found myself sulking along behind them as the party resumed in full swing. A number of patrons decided that midnight was their finale also, and the hall began to clear out, but more than half took seriously the Chancellor's schedule, which had the party lasting for another hour or two at least. The Daman Sirc's drummers came out again, and struck up an impromptu dance of sorts while the orchestra took a break. The buffet was closed but the bar wasn't, that was clear from the folks who had decided to stay on and dance in the New Year. I caught Obi-Wan's head bobbing to the music, perhaps involuntarily, for his attention was focused elsewhere. I just snorted at him and resumed sulking, rapidly losing interest in the proceedings. The Padawan's sultry voice intruded on my inner thoughts. "So, is this what you were talking about?"

It took me a second to register that he was talking to me. "What?"

"When we were on Daramin. You were explaining to me once about your favorite kind of music, the kind you like to dance to," he patiently reminded. "Is this anything like it?"

"Oh." I swiveled my head around and gave the drummers a few seconds of my attention. "Well, sort of. It could be. The beat's right."

Mischief flitted across his lips. "So, would you like to dance? And show me just what you were talking about?"

I sighed shortly. "Not right now, Obi-Wan. Definitely not in this dress."

His brows knit briefly in regret, as if my rejection was personal, before his customary serious Jedi expression returned. "Is something the matter?"

"I'm just...it's been a long night," I curtly replied, rubbing my eyes. "I'm getting kind of tired."

Master Qui-Gon was close enough to overhear, and turned to me. "Does that mean you want to leave?"

I shrugged noncommittally. I did, but I didn't feel like demanding that we go now. "I don't know. I guess. How much more of this did you want to put up with?"

He appeared to think about it. "Well, I was finding the Sirc drummers interesting, but if you wish to leave, I'm ready."

"No, it's okay. If you want to stay for a little bit, that's fine. I'm in no hurry." I clasped my hands before me and looked away, pretending to find something across the room fascinating.

Qui-Gon watched the drummers for a few moments more, but then huffed a sigh and beckoned us to follow him. Without a word, we crossed to the grand staircase and climbed up to the main doors, pausing only to get my starry shawl from the coat attendant. I felt bad about making him leave when he wasn't ready to, which only made my mood worse. At the open doorway leading to the cool, dark entry hall and the night outside, Chancellor Valorum stood to meet and thank each of his guests as they left, giving each a smile and a few friendly words between sips from an elegant wine glass clasped in his thin, nimble fingers. As we passed, his formal smile became genuine and he reached out a hand to Qui-Gon. "Leaving so soon, Master?"

Qui-Gon clasped the offered hand amicably. "I think so. It has been a very full evening. Thank you for your hospitality."

"Thank you for gracing my little party with your presence," the chancellor said in return. "It is so rare that I get the opportunity to see certain friends outside official channels. And you." He had an especially kind smile for me. "Thank you for a splendid dance."

"Thank you, Chancellor," I said, managing an honest smile for the first time in an hour. He took my hand in a graceful manner and bowed over it. Master Qui-Gon smiled keenly at his response and placed a hand gently on my shoulder to guide me away. I wrapped my shawl more tightly around my arms and withdrew into its scant warmth as we made our way to the skydock and home.

Mercifully, with Jedi there was no spare chatter in transit, just a silence I could appreciate and revel in, keeping my rambling thoughts to myself. As we arrived at the Temple, having very little traffic to compete with at this time of night on a holiday, I began to feel the fatigue and discomfort I had been trying to put off all night - I wanted out of the damn dress and into something more comfortable. My feet hurt, my back was stiff from being forced into elegant posture, and a sleepy haze crowded into my senses. I almost didn't notice the journey from the hangar up to quarters, listening to the rhythmic swish of my skirts as I paced evenly behind both Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan, who seemed of a mind to get home as quickly as I wanted to. Finally, as we drew abreast of the intersecting corridor that led away to my quarters, the Master broke our long silence. "Do you need anything else, tonight?"

I covered my yawn with a hand and shook my head. "Well," I mused, "I could use a hand with this dress. I can't get out of it by myself."

Anyone else in the universe would have made some kind of snarky, innuendo-laden comment in response, but it was testament to Qui-Gon's character that he missed the opportunity and simply held out a hand to invite me to lead the way. Obi-Wan continued on to their quarters. I pressed the pad to open the door and swished my way inside, throwing off the shawl and wrestling my feet out of the slippers that were no more comfortable than heels for a long night on my feet. Once the door hissed closed, I thumbed over my shoulder at the back of the dress. "I just need a hand with the zipper, and I'm good. Oh, I can't wait to get into something warm and snuggly and curl up in bed."

I barely felt Qui-Gon's fingertips even glance across the skin of my neck as he unhooked the collar and zipped down the back. I held on tightly to the bodice as I felt it grow loose around me. "There," the Master murmured placidly. "Is that all?"

"Yeah, that's all." I gave him a quick look over my shoulder. "Thanks. 'Night."

He didn't leave, though. "Are you sure you're all right?"

Oh drat. Not this again. "Yeah, I'm fine," I assured with a tired sigh. "Sorry about the cranky mood, I'm just..."

"Bothered about something," he finished for me, before I could say "tired." "I can sense it. What happened in the back hallway when you were alone?"

"I told you," I said emphatically, "one of the guests just was getting a little too friendly. I'm sure it was a one-time incident by a lonely dignitary who had a little too much to drink during the holidays. It's not like that's never happened before." I waved one hand in his direction. "I'm fine. I appreciate the concern, but it's nothing."

Qui-Gon held my gaze for a moment, but I didn't feel any particular flicker of the Force to indicate he was trying to see past my evasive answers. "As long as you're all right," he finally relented. "It has put you in a sour mood."

"Well, yeah," I said with a weak smile. "I don't like being hit on."

A faint smile glanced fleetingly off his lips. "Very well, then. I won't keep you any longer from escaping your formal dress. Sleep well."

"Thanks. Happy New Year, Qui-Gon," I added to his retreating back. He smiled over his shoulder at me and disappeared down the dimly-lit hallway.

Finally! Alone at last, I let the dress fall to my feet and climbed out of it, reaching for the warm shirt and leggings crumpled on my bed and practically diving into them. The ordeal was finally over. Yet, I couldn't help but think as I carefully unpinned my hair and shook it out, Qui-Gon didn't look particularly convinced of my story about drunk dignitaries. He had to know I was holding something back from him, even though the distress was genuine, regardless of the senator's specific identity. However, the last thing I wanted right now was to get into a long and complicated discussion about my feelings or anything related to them, so I let the Jedi believe I had told them the real story. Now I just had to put it out of my own mind as I turned out the lights and fell into bed.

...TO BE CONTINUED!

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