Chapter 37
'Hard to Love'
'Finals and Felons'
'Dark Influence'
'Graduation Domination: Roar of the Crowd'
It has been awhile since Dantius last spoke to Fern or any of the 'Fantastic Five.' Most of the semester passes by before he notices that Fern is in one of his classes. It is in the lecture hall, so aside from the large class size, the students tend to take the same seats each time they enter the room.
Fern is curious to know where he has been all year. He is not forthcoming with a direct answer and she never presses him. Dantius does not ask about Sigi, Boone and the rest of the friends. He is; however, surprisingly open to being Fern's study partner. The campus library is the perfect place. Sometimes, long hours of study, especially after missing dinner at the dining hall, leads to off-topic conversation. Fern suggests a popular off-campus diner for a respite and sustenance.
The two order sandwiches and chat about their final papers. Fern enjoys their time together. He turns out to be an excellent study partner and helps her with some challenging parts of the class. He finds him fascinating, brilliant, and funny. She always knew he was smart but never paid much attention when the 'Fantastic Five' got together. He was quiet and more reserved back then. She hangs onto his every word. She interrupts him briefly.
"Why did we ever stop talking?"
"I have no idea. I really can't remember!"
They laugh. In the back of his mind, he did remember. He tried to strangle Boone in his sleep during their ski trip.
The conversation continues in his dorm room. Dantius realizes that Fern is an excellent study partner and can hold her own in an intellectual discussion when she is away from her friends. He almost considered her his equal. It was not planned that that they would wind up in each other's' arms. They are uncharacteristically playful. Fern finds herself attracted to him. This is strange because she was never attracted to him before.
Morning, however took a different and unsettling turn.
Fern lifts her head from the pillow. She looks at the vacant place on the bed where he held her in his arms and gently stroked her hair. The empty space on the bed is cold. He had been out of bed for some time. She turns over and looks across the dark room. She sees Dantius sitting in his robe, swiveling quietly in his desk chair. The Naboo moon is bright as evening was turning to dawn. She notices his fair hair illuminated. It was damp. He had taken a shower…without her. She manages to smile as she sweeps a lock of her dark hair from her face.
'\
"You didn't wait for me. Is it that late?"
"No…it's early actually."
"Oh…do you have an early class?"
"No."
Fern squints at the clock.
"Hmmm…the dining hall is just opening. Why don't we have breakfast with the sculling team…?"
Dantius interrupts her.
"You should go."
"Uhmm… Okay…I'll take a shower…."
"No. You need to go now."
His words are abrupt and cold. Fern is about to assure him that she would be quick but as the moonlight shines on his face, his expression tells her that he does not want her hanging around. Her face turns flush with embarrassment. She garbs the duvet around her body and slips out of bed. She leans over and scoops up her clothing from the floor. She is humiliated as she hurries to dress in front of him. She gathers her bag and books, then leaves.
It is the first few minutes of dawn when Fern whisks past the security desk in the lobby of Jafan Hall. She pushes open the glass doors. The air is cool from the morning dew. Fern walks as swiftly as she can. She does not want anyone to see her leaving the dorm at this hour of the morning. She can see the rowing teams file into the dining hall for an early breakfast. She hurries to her dorm room and immediately jumps in the shower. She does not get out until it is time for her first class.
Dantius strips his bed and leaves the pile for housekeeping. There is no laundry tag on the linens as required. If there is no tag, the bedding will not be returned to him, which suits him fine.
Dantius goes about his day as if nothing has happened. Vidar Kim is in town, Dantius devotes his free time at the Senator's local office. It felt good to avoid a nasty scene in his dorm room that morning. He knew that Fern was a sensible person. Sensibility went out the window a few days later. He has the misfortune of encountering Fern as they head into class. The timing was not good for Dantius.
Fern grabs him after class ends and shoves him into an alcove. She slaps him several times.
"So you think you can get away with being a jerk? Don't you treat me like that ever again!"
It was understandable for her to be furious with him but he was shocked by the number of times she slaps him and the intensity. His face stings. Students leaving the class can hear the sound of her hand hitting his face and turn to look. No one comes to his defense. The icy look she gives him leaves him speechless.
Fern leaves him in the alcove. He touches his jaw. It is not broken. Does this mean she still wants to see him?
The following weekend they wind up together again. Fern is in charge this time. They are officially a 'couple' much to the surprise of the 'Fantastic Five.' The relationship feels oddly perfect. Fern is not high maintenance. Dantius does not have to shower her with expensive gifts or lavish dinners. An occasional gift and dinner at a local restaurant suffice. There was no showing her off to the parents. It is better not rub salt into a still festering wound after Vernu. Fern is not in any hurry to introduce Dantius to her family. She has not even mentioned him during her weekly calls home. No pressure here.
They actually sit together in class. At times, they exchange quips about the discussion topics when it drags on too long.
One evening, their 'secret' relationship is discovered. It happens when Boone and Roman are returning to campus from disrupting a university grav-ball game. They run across the court carrying a banner protesting several team sponsors who have connections to the Trade Federation. They elude the police and cut through the parking bay on their way back to campus. They happen to pass a popular diner and catch a glimpse of Dantius and Fern who are sitting in a booth at the window. Boone taps on the window. Dantius and Fern stare out of the window into the dark parking bay. Fern is embarrassed but also relieved that the relationship is no longer a secret... Dantius is not as pleased.
Boone and Roman enter the diner. They are able to lose the police who are chasing them but they are also up for some more fun. Boone sits beside Fern while Roman slides into the booth next to Dantius.
"Sooo…keeping dirty little secrets from us, hey?"
Fern rolls her eyes.
"Fine, now you know. Are you done gloating?"
"No…maybe…yes! So, how long has this been going on?"
Roman grins.
"So, how is he in the sack, Fernie? Hey, 'D', are you the man?"
Fern bites her lip as Boone and Roman make salacious jokes. She has heard enough.
"If we buy you dinner, will you stop the inquisition? You perverted monkey-lizard."
Roman giggles but Boone seriously considers her offer. He grabs a menu from the wire holder near the salt and pepper caddy.
"My, how generous of you. I could eat…"
Fern rolls her eyes. Dantius remains quiet hoping they will stop. He ignores them and sips his coffee.
A waitress approaches the booth. The nametag on the white lapel of her pink uniform reads 'Rita'. She is an attractive redhead in her early 40's. She knows how to handle difficult customers. She can detect an 'eat & dash' customer immediately. If a scam is about to be performed, she is ready for the perpetrators, and so is Sal, the head nightshift cook. He refers to them as 'E&D' or 'Thieves of Theed' since they are usually university students. Rita sizes up the two diners.
"You boys ordering or just keeping the seats warm for paying customers?"
Boone looks up at the woman and smiles. He reads her nametag.
"Good evening, 'Rita,' you fine thing."
"Just so you know…there's no discount for flattery, besides, I'm old enough to be your mother."
"Okay…but I warn you, I can keep an open mind. You're gonna miss out on all of this lusciousness called 'Boone.' "
"I'm giving up 'lusciousness' for Lent. Are you ready to order, Casanova?"
"Okay, I'll have the Okikuti batter-fried fish and chips, vinegar coleslaw, and a strawberry shake…oh! …and a slice of that lemon cream pie. Was that baked fresh today?"
"No, it's two months old…of course it's fresh-baked."
"Okay…take it easy. Could you throw some extra tartar sauce on the side?"
"You like the pie spicy?"
"It's for the fish and chips."
"Ah, I see."
He winks.
"Thanks, Rita…you get me…Hey, you think a starving but intelligent student like me and a fine mature woman like yourself…"
She cuts him off mid-sentence.
"No." She snatches up his menu, sighs, and turns to Roman. She sees the police scrambling outside in the parking bay like Keystone cops. She knows that she is waiting on the 'escapees'.
"Would you like the 'condemned man's feast' as well?"
"I'll have the poutine, extra gravy, bantha burger, medium rare, fried onions, toasted bun…"
"Soup or side salad?"
"I'm eating healthy. I'll have the side salad with lots of 'SW-Ranch' dressing…What's the 'SW' stand for?"
"I have no idea, I just serve it. Anything else?"
"Uhm…let me have a Rodian soda cream while I'm waiting…"
"Is that all?"
"I'll have the pera tarte al la mode for dessert. Thanks, ma'am."
Roman looks around the table.
"Don't worry, folks. I'm picking up the tab!" He grins and folds his hands on the table as he tries to process the idea of Dantius and Fern together. "This is too good to be true. Fernie and ol' D.P. I can't get over it."
The four students play 'catch-up 'to find out what everyone has been up to in the past year. Boone and Roman are mostly interested in what Dantius and Fern are doing together. Boone stabs his fork into the cold remains of the Sillgratin casserole Dantius had ordered earlier. Dantius listens to the conversation at the table. Perhaps if he stays long enough, he will get some useful information. Senator Kim wants the ongoing demonstrations shut down. He is up for re-election and the protests are hurting his campaign.
The semester moves along gradually. The team is reunited. Dantius speaks to Sigrid for the first time since he left them a year earlier. For the few moments during his conversation with her, Dantius forgets that Fern is in his life. They attend a senior class cocktail party. Sigrid has another year at Theed University but, she is invited as a guest of Fern and also because her father is a dominant figure in the Theed social scene. He is a celebrity in the academic community.
This is an awkward moment for Dantius. Fern is unaware that he still pines for Sigrid. The beautiful goddess approaches Dantius as he sips a beer.
"Hey, Dani."
"Oh…uhm…Hi, Sigrid…I didn't expect to see you here."
"Fern invited me."
"Oh…she did?"
Fern returns. She had been chatting with one of her professors. She overhears part of the conversation.
"Yes I did!" She laughs. Dani, why are you acting like a stranger to Sigi?"
"Uhm…it's just been a while. I was just surprised to see you…ahem…how are you?"
Sigrid is amused.
"I'm good, Dani. You never attend any of our rallies. Why have you been doing all this time besides seeing Fern?"
"Oh…uhm…well, I am an intern for Senator Vidar Kim. The position takes up most of my time so there is no time to hang around on campus."
"Fair enough. So…I suppose you won't be around much after graduation. Will you be moving to Coruscant fulltime?"
"There's a possibility…nothing is certain. You still have another year to go. What are your plans?"
"I'm going to travel. Magnus and Roman want to organize a big rally on Core Words."
Dantius wishes that she would end this protest nonsense. Instead of saying it outright, he pretends to be amused.
"Taking the show on the road, eh?"
"Hey, we're getting a lot of attention. You should have seen all the HoloNet coverage we've been getting over the past several months. It's amazing."
Dantius cracks a faint smile as he pretends to express interest in her radicalism. He hopes her interest will wane, because if she continues, the media coverage will generate public sympathy for the cause. Parents will contact their government officials to express their outrage that their children have no choice but to rise up against the government. They will suspect something is wrong with the system.
Dantius wishes that Sigrid would just stop. It is difficult to fall out of love with someone so beautiful and full of life that she cares about others without though of her own life. The only response he has for her is an indifferent 'That's Great.'
"So, I'm happy for you and Fern. You two make a great couple."
Dantius pretends as if he does not know what she is talking about and has a puzzled expression on his face. How can he admit that he has forgotten about Fern during this conversation and who has been standing just a few feet away from him.
"Well, you know…strange things happen…" He drifts away from the subject and averts his eyes to anywhere else in the room. Sigrid fortunately thinks of something else to talk about.
"So, are you going to Hoth? It's the graduation trip that Boone and Roman organized."
Dantius scratches his head. He is not sure if he wants to do another trip. He has so many obligations after graduation. His internship is important to his future career goals; and then there is Plagueis/Professor Hego Damask. A group of students despises the professor. They facetiously refer to the Muun as 'Professor Dumb-Ask.' Dantius has his own grievances with his secret mentor but the jokes from the students are disrespectful. Dantius remembers to answer Sigrid's question.
"It's a possibility. I have to check my calendar."
"Oh, I heard you're a big shot, mentor now. Congrats!"
"Thank you, Sigrid."
Dantius balances his activities well enough but not to the satisfaction of Palpatine Senior. Cosinga Palpatine is still upset about the scandal surrounding the death of that child prodigy and the involvement of his son. Months after the horrific incident but the reminders linger in the Palpatine household. There are too many disturbing coincidences between these oddly timed events, his son and the Muun Professor. Cosinga arranges a secret meeting with the enigmatic professor Damask at the Palpatine holiday villa in the Lake Country.
Cosinga watches as Damask ascends the steps to the gazebo. He stares at the aids who accompany Damask and is not pleased. Damask senses this and sends the aids back to the dock while he and Cosinga engage in discussion.
"Thank you for coming, Professor. I was not expecting you to arrive with an entourage."
"They are trusted assistants who travel with me to meeting such as this, however, as a courtesy; I have sent them away while we talk."
"Yes, let's 'talk' These past few years have been wrought with challenges for me as well as my wife so it is important that we get to the issue at hand. My son has been spending an extraordinary amount of time in your company. I don't believe that you are a beneficial presence in his life. It is affecting my influence as a father. We have not seen eye to eye for a long time and your continued presence is hindering any distance you healing that may have started."
Plagueis listens calmly. Cosinga's attempt to 'reclaim' his son humors the Muun.
"I beg to differ, your Excellency, but I believe that Dantius has flourished under my tutelage. He is an intelligent young man and has learned a great many things."
"I doubt that a broken engagement, a mysterious death and problems on campus, would be considered flourishing; I therefore respectfully request that yourself from my son. Perhaps Naboo is not the place for you to be. Perhaps your own home world would serve you better where you can mentor your own kind.
"You seem like a concerned parent, Mr. Palpatine. Perhaps you underestimate your son. Your heavy hand is what has driven him away. You should not concern yourself with this. All this conflict will end soon. Good day, Mr. Palpatine."
Damask bows slightly. The conversation ends abruptly as each man regards the other with contempt. Damask turns and leaves.
The time leading up to graduation is a busy one for Dantius. He divides his time between Senator Kim's local office on Naboo and Plagueis' secret meeting place across Bassa Ridge. He is able to keep two separate lives. One afternoon he makes a change is his routine and meets Plagueis on Chandrilla. This sudden call to meet Plagueis bothers him. He is busy doing work for the senator this ruins his plans. He demands to know what the urgency is that would pull him away from his work.
Dantius is busy mentoring the 'Young Senators for the Future', a group of about 15 and 16 year olds who aspire to be part of the Galactic Government.
The students sit at an outdoor table after a workshop. Dantius sees Plagueis arrive. He keeps the students occupied in a discussion about the responsibilities of the senate. While the teens are engaged in an intense discussion, Dantius discreetly slips away to meet with Plagueis in private. When he is certain that he is out of view of the students, he locates Plagueis.
"What's going on? Why are you here? This is highly irregular."
"Dantius, I would never interrupt your training session with your students, but we must speak."
Dantius is angry and demands to know why Plagueis has come.
"What is it?"
"It is urgent that we meet now. I had an unfortunate discussion with your father."
"You did what?"
"He is displeased that you have chosen me as your advisor."
"Why is he in my affairs? And why are you talking to him?"
"It seems that he is concerned about you. I tried to make him see reason but I was not successful."
"He wants control over me. We have never seen eye to eye."
Dantius is visibly angry and frustrated. He paces back and forth. Plagueis watches as his student boils with anger. He calmly makes a suggestion.
"Calm yourself, Dantius. I know how much this hurts you. What can I do to help?"
"Nothing can be done. He is ruining my life…"
"Yes…I know. First, this ill-fated engagement to someone you don't love. A pre-arranged marriage for you, at this important time in your life would be disastrous. It seems he has your entire future planned out for you."
"Well, it's not what I want!" Dantius runs his hands through his hair as he continues to pace and think of his next move to fend off his father's heavy hand. He stops and looks up at Plagueis. He appears almost helpless. "I need help."
"Well…there is one thing you may be able to do…You could emancipate yourself. Free yourself from a life of mediocrity. You know, I have experienced similar adversity in my youth. I thought all was lost…and then, after a carefully thought-out plan, I was able to obtain my own emancipation. It was quite dramatic but I was able to eliminate major obstacles while maintaining a lifestyle of which I have become accustomed. No one could touch me after that moment... I was free."
Plagueis reveals to Dantius the horrific details about how he 'eliminated' his family and immediately inherited the vast Damask family fortune, which included substantial business assets and property. After his 'confession', Plagueis knows that he has successfully planted the seeds of dark destruction in the young man's ear.
Dantius looks into Plagueis' dark, soulless eyes.
"I…just…"
"You do want your freedom, don't you, Dantius?"
Dantius attempts to articulate his demands. Plagueis enjoys watching him struggle with the right words.
"What I want…What I want... what's most important to me is that I have a guarantee: no more secrets. I want access of the holocron crystals. I want the power."
"What guarantees could I give you, Dantius? The crystals work only if you are powerful enough to use them. You give me too much credit. I have learned over the years how to use them. In time, you will learn to use them properly. I will let you know when that time has come."
The senior Palpatine, suspicious of Plagueis, hires agents to follow him to Chandrilla. The agents report back to Cosinga that the Muun ignored his request to stay away from Dantius. A great conflict is brewing.
Dantius knows he must confront his father but he also knows that he must plan carefully.
Dantius has a lot to do before graduation. Fortunately, the youth program will end before he completes final exams. Something always ruins his perfectly balanced plans. Fern accepts an invitation to celebrate with a post-graduation trip on Hoth. He is not happy about this arrangement at all, but after some consideration, Dantius thinks that this journey may help resolve some matters that threaten his plans and Fern is NOT part of his plans for the future.
The 'happy' couple was never meant to be. Romantic attachments would definitely hamper his plans. Dantius is not known for subtlety and he could be conveniently cruel, especially when he feels trapped.
He is already annoyed at Fern for accepting the invitation for him. He calms down for a moment. He can handle this. His temper never reaches the boiling point until he is hit with some devastating news.
They meet at the diner and sit in a booth in a quiet corner. They never sit in a corner booth. They are near the cloakroom. No one uses it since the season has changed. Fern reaches across the table and takes his hands in hers. His pallor loses all color and beads of sweat appear on his brow. He feels disoriented as he searches for a path of escape.
Rita is serving another customer when Dantius rushes past, almost knocking her into a customer.
Fern tries to keep in pace with him as he begins to walk away from her. They are on campus and Dantius quickly weaves between other students who happen to be walking along the same path towards the Theed Student Union Building. Fern tries to reason with him as she struggles to catch up to him.
"Dantius, I just thought…with graduation upon us…it's not as if we have any financial worries…I thought you would be happy."
Dantius stops suddenly. They are now alone on the pathway. He turns around so quickly that he almost collides with her as she catches up to him. His eyes are wild with anger as he responds to her remark.
"Happy? Are you bloody insane? I have a career… I have plans."
"But you can keep your plans – It will all work out. We're a team." She touches his arm. He pulls away as if touched by something vile.
"I don't care Just get rid of it!"
Fern looks shocked but remains calm.
"Dani, you don't mean that…"
He fights the temptation to strangle her. He turns away then spins around and lurches towards her. His cold dark stare stuns her.
"You're in my way…and 'IT' is in my way. 'We,' are not a team. Leave me!" He shoves her and turns to walk away. Fern stands alone on the walkway.
Dantius adjusts his academic robe as he continues walking. There is no way he is going to waste away in domestic angst.
Weeks pass. Final exams end. Fern and Dantius are not on speaking terms. Dantius speaks only occasionally to Boone as they see one another on campus. Dantius decides to keep his distance but this is his best strategy to find out how much Boone knows about the breakup. He forgets sometimes that Boone is Force sensitive and is able to hide the deepest and darkest secrets. Dantius decides he should try another tactic.
Dantius meets with Boone one afternoon to chat. He invites Boone to dinner. Food is like a drug to Boone. If you set a plate of snacks in front of him, he relaxes and starts talking about everything one could ever imagine. Dantius can be amusing and friendly too. He sits opposite his bohemian 'friend' at the diner and watches as he feasts on the 'mid-week' special.
"So…Boone, what are your plans this summer?"
"Oh, didn't I tell you? I have a job on Coruscant doing set design at the Galaxies Theatre. It's a cool gig. I get to work with the most famous producers and directors. The money is great too. The class of 66' is ready to say 'Greetings to the Galaxy!' I'm stoked, man."
"That's wonderful. You've made it." Dantius scratches his neck as he tries to drive more information out of Boone. He does not want to hear about the Galaxies Theatre. "Anything else going on?"
"No…that's it. Want to try this shaak steak? It cuts like butter. Who knew diner food could be this good?"
"So…no rallies on the camps or in front of the palace gates?"
"When is there not a rally? Anyway, I'm gonna be busy…what about you? Mentoring any high school kids?"
"No. Tell me about the others."
"Nothing to tell. Everyone is busy moving out of the dorms, finding work, or taking holiday. Have you decided to hang out with us after graduation?"
"I haven't given it any thought."
Dantius is unsuccessful in driving any information out of Boone. The evening is a big disappointment, especially after some old classmates from Boone's grade school happen to be in town. They gather around the booth to say 'hello' to their childhood friend. Dantius senses some sort of force field. The friends are graduates of the Jedi Academy. Dantius is at a great disadvantage. He cannot detect anything from Boone or the others. The force is strong with this group. It is like radio interference. Boone greets his friends and almost forgets that Dantius is sitting across from him. Dantius does not stay for any introductions. He pays the tab and leaves the diner. He will have to try again when less people are around. This may take some time.
'Graduation Domination'
Graduation day arrives. It is a beautiful spring day for a commencement. Proud parents, dressed in their celebratory finery hold tight to the ornate collectible commencement programs. For some, this is the first time anyone in their family is graduating from such a prestigious institution of learning. Dantius sees his parents in the audience as he arrives with his graduating class. He refuses to make eye contact as his parents watch him walk down the aisle.
The keynote speaker is Doctor Per Erik Horn, the great architect and Sigrid's father. Dean Kingston introduces the revered architect and outspoken critic of the Galactic Senate. The outdoor ceremony if filled with great pomp. Dantius sits a few rows back as he listens to Doctor Horn speak. Some of Doctor Horn's works actually makes Dantius sit up and take notice.
"…During my numerous visits to Theed University, I am continually impressed by the bright and hungry minds looking for guidance from some of the best educators in the galaxy. I am buoyed by the fact that my own daughter will be sitting where you are next year in her commencement gown, hopefully listening to someone's voice other than mine to give her class commencement speech.' (Light laughter from the crowd).
Today, you have proved to your parents that all of their hard work pushing you to excel had paid off ten-fold. Tomorrow, you will wake up and start your day as future leaders in your chosen field of expertise. My advice to you is this: When you decide to make your mark on this world, be sure to make it count. Don't follow the beaten path of those before you. Create a new one that will define who you are and what you have to offer. Do not get caught up in old ideology that cloud your thinking or prohibit you moving forward. When you do reach those lofty goals, share your success with others. Reach out to them so they too can start a path to fulfill their dreams. In addition, do not be disillusioned by the changes that occur in the high offices of our governing bodies…the ones that turn their backs on their people may not want to hear you now but they know you are there. I have heard the demonstrations and I know you will keep your voices. Someone will listen. So as I challenge you to venture out into this uncertain galaxy, remember one thing, Enjoy life, remember what brought you to this moment, and make it count. As the great Jedi credo goes, 'May the Force Be With You…always.'
Congratulations and thank you."
Boone's parents beam proudly as they hear their son's name called to receive his diploma with honors. There is a veritable cheering squad for Boone, Fern, and Roman. One would think that this was a sporting event given the loud and rowdy whistles and shouts.
Fern's parents are equally happy for her but worry about their daughter. She accepts her diploma and then waves to her family in the audience. She manages a faint smile. They sensed that something is troubling her. Dantius walks up to receive his diploma from Dean Kingston. It is an awkward moment as neither Kingsfield nor Dantius exchange as much as a smile as the dean hands him his diploma. It is a relief for both during the brief handshake. Kingston is noticeably more animated and cheerful when the other graduates approach the stage. The graduating class of 66' cheers. They toss their caps towards the sky; a band performs the Theed University Fight song.
'Tusk Cats! Tusk Cats!
Pride of Theed-U
Tusk Cats! Tusk Cats!
Champions through and through
Theed our Al-ma Ma-ter
Land of Hi-sto-ry
We the loyal fans cheer for Vic-to-ry!
U rah! rah! Fight! Fight! Fight!'
The graduates sing the fight song twice to thunderous applause. Most of the audience joins in except for the staid Palpatine family. It is not their nature to sing boisterous sports songs.
The Palpatine family greets Dantius at the end of the ceremony. Cosinga takes his son aside.
"So, this is finally over. Do your mother a favor and look happy."
"As you wish, Father."
'Fathers and Sons/ Mother's and Daughters'
Boone catches up with Dantius and introduces him to his family. The Antilles is friendly and adores their son. Mrs. Palpatine is a stark contrast to the bohemian-looking Antilles. Mrs. Antilles wears a brightly colored dress made from fabric she printed herself in her textile studio. Mr. Antilles is dressed in an olive-colored silk poets' shirt under a vintage blazer. Mrs. Palpatine is dressed in her typical aristocratic attire. She gives Mrs. Antilles a once-over. Dantius notices the snobbish look on his mother's face. Mr. Antilles is a gregarious character. He is a handsome man with the same wild mane of hair as Boone. It is partially covered by a beret. Mrs. Palpatine notices that he is wearing Birkenstock-type sandals.
Dantius is momentarily distracted as he watches Fern and her family chatting with Dean Kingston and Doctor Horn. Fern looks across the campus gardens at Dantius. He makes eye contact with her then abruptly turns away and engages in a conversation with Boone's family. He prays that Fern does not walk over to make a scene. She stays where she is as she receives gifts from her parents and friends. This is not the end of his close encounters with former girlfriends. It is like 'ghosts of co-ed past' today. Kiri Secura is in the crowd in addition to a few other casual encounters during his life on campus. This is his daytime nightmare. Fortunately, none of the women approaches him.
After exchanging a few basic pleasantries with the Antilles, Dantius leaves with his family for a luncheon celebration at Naboo Lake Restaurant.
"So, are those the friends you chose over visiting the family during semester break?"
"They're harmless, Father, and lots more fun."
"Did you see the way the parents were dressed? It looked like the costume trunks fell off a starship en-route to an opera."
"Ederlinn speaks up."
"I thought there were charming. After all, they are Dantius' friends."
"Well, your brother has responsibilities which do not include them." He hands the waiter his menu as he continues to speak. "I'll have the nerf in mushroom sauce." He looks across the table at his son. "Your mother and I were thinking that you should take a break from working at the Galactic Senate and help manage the family business with your cousin and brother."
"I can't do that. I have plans of my own. Besides, I was thinking of taking a small holiday with my friends."
"What? Those bohemians? You are wasting your life."
"Well, I have decided and that is my plan for the immediate future."
Mrs. Palpatine tries to reason with her son.
"Dantius, listen to your father. This is your chance to make something of yourself." She places her gloves in her purse. "Besides, we need to keep the business in the family. It can never get into the hands of outsiders. The Palpatine family name means something on Naboo and across the Galaxy. If we lose control, it may well become a bohemian cesspool like those unbearable schoolmates of yours. Cosinga, did you notice the dreadful clothes that boy…Danti dear, what is your friend's name?"
"Boone, Mother." Dantius is disinterested in the conversation at the table.
"Oh, yes, and what in heaven possessed them to give him that ridiculous name?"
"It's a fun name. His parents let him choose it when he was five."
A waiter brings a bottle of Champagne to the table. Cosinga nods with approval. He grumbles at the comment about the Antilles family values.
"It's 'progressive' teaching such as this that will ruin the galaxy. What are they? Artists? It figures."
"Everyone has his own way. Boone turned out okay. He graduated summa cum laude…"
"And because you aligned yourself with that horrid Professor Damask, you wound up as magna cum laude. When you spend the summer working in the family business, I will allow you to further your education and get the grades and honors you truly deserve."
"I prefer not to discuss this now."
Ederlinn takes her brother's hand.
"We have a lot of catching up to do."
"Perhaps another time. I have decided to accept an invitation to take a trip with my friends."
His mother is exasperated.
"Darling, we were going to surprise you with a fabulous graduation party at the Theed club this evening. Your father went to great lengths to reserve the banquet room; and then there is a special tea at the palace in two days. It would be the perfect opportunity to mend things since that unfortunate and embarrassing episode with Vernu."
"Mother, I wish you had asked me first. I just explained to you that I have plans."
Ederlinn nudges her brother.
"Dantius, please…they went to so much trouble to make this special for you. Tell your friends you will join them later. I'm sure they will understand."
Dantius sulks as he imagines the fun Boone is having with his family at the new age organic restaurant just off campus.
Kiri, Roman, and Fern also share special moments with their families. They discuss their careers and entry into the adult workforce. These are the greatest moments for these student and their families. Roman's father is proud that his son persevered and made it through to this day. Mr. Beruss jokes with his son.
"So, it's all downhill from here, son! You're going to be a working member of society like your old man."
"Seriously, Dad? I thought I would travel the galaxy to find myself."
"You did that summer of your sophomore year. No more fun for you!"
"Are you serious? I don't get a break after graduating? Finals were grueling, Dad. I never worked so hard in my life!"
Everyone at the table laughs. His father slaps him on the back then toasts his uncle.
"I knew you would pull it together, son. Now I don't feel so nervous that you'll be living off your trust fund for the rest of your life. You actually have potential."
"What if I just take a short trip this week? Boone and I planned to celebrate our graduation with a road trip to Hoth."
Mr. Beruss is no longer laughing. He is not angry but expresses concern that Roman will play all summer instead of finding employment. The agreement was that if he found a job on his own, he would not have to work at his father's company. He does not want to acquiesce to Roman's every whim just because they have the financial means to do it.
"Gee, Ro, I don't know…"
"Dad, it's graduation. It will only be a few days…I'll be back ready to work…even if it's for your company. A little nepotism never killed anyone. I promise I'll work hard as soon as I return."
Mr. Beruss ponders for a moment as he turns his whisky glass a few times. He wants Roman to make something of himself and mediocrity is not what he wants for his son. He does not know why he is anxious all of a sudden. His doctor warned him to cut down on the alcohol. His wife is worried too, but more for her husband. After a few moments, he sighs and gives in to Roman's request.
"Okay, fine…three days isn't so bad. I guess I worry…Have your fun; you deserve it."
"Thanks Dad. I'll be back ready to work. I promise."
"You better! I'll have the nameplate put on your office door before you get back. I am proud of you. Cheers!"
"Cheers." Roman hate whisky but having a drink with his father is the least he could do. He is concerned for his father. Why so quiet and sad all of a sudden? He makes a personal vow to give his father 101% of his work time. That should cheer him up. Roman gulps down the scotch. He makes a grimace that causes his father to laugh. "Ugh! Do they serve Rodian soda in this ritzy place?"
His father winks.
"If they don't, we go get you one." Mr. Beruss kisses his son on the head.
"Good because I don't want this to be the last thing I drink."
Fern and her family a more subdued celebration. After the commencement ceremony, and posing for some holograms with her friends, Fern tells her parents that she will meet them later. A half hour passes after the Dor clan arrives at the restaurant. The waiter approaches their table several times to take their order. Her parents keep looking at the entrance. The restaurant is full and the manager asks if they would like to cancel their reservation. Mrs. Dor protests.
"We certainly do not! We made this reservation months ago. Thirty minutes is not cause to cancel. Our daughter will be here shortly."
Mr. Dor is about to offer an extra tip to the waiter when Fern walks into the restaurant.
"Waiter, our guest of honor has arrived. We will be ordering as soon as she is seated."
The waiter nods then walks away. Fern is embarrassed but takes her place at the table. He mother whispers to her.
"Where have you been? We almost lost our table."
"Sorry I'm late."
"The family has been waiting for you. What happened?"
"Oh, you know…saying goodbye to friends takes time."
Her mother dabs Fern's forehead with the linen table napkin.
"Were you running, dear? You're perspiring."
"I'm fine, Mother…really. I just need some water and I'll be fine." She grabs a water glass and begins drinking.
"So, what is this mystery boyfriend you wrote to your father and me about last month?"
"Oh…it's nothing. We decided our lives would be too busy to get involved. Anyway, I'm thinking of taking a trip."
"What?"
Mr. Dor echoes his wife's dismay.
"What? Where are you going?"
"I've signed up to do some summer work…maybe travel a bit before next season."
"What brought this on all of a sudden?"
"I've decided to make a few career changes."
"But you just got selected to do a two-year social work fellowship on Melida/Daan. You accepted the offer. I don't understand."
"I'm still going…I just need to take some time off to rethink my life. I have the entire summer. What's the big deal?"
Mrs. Dor is shocked by these revelations. She hopes that her daughter will reconsider this decision.
"The big deal is that you've thrown these changes at us during an inopportune time. It makes no sense, Fern."
"Mother, it's not a big deal. People do this all the time. Hey, it's my graduation luncheon. Let's order; I'm famished." Fern picks up the menu. Her parents are befuddled as they glance at one another across the table. Fern looks at her parents and smiles. "Cheer up! No one died. This is a celebration."
The Dor family, followed by the Beruss', Antilles', and Palpatine's are left perplexed that their respective children have changed the course of their lives in one afternoon. There is not much to celebrate…not after today.
Doctor Horn meets his daughter at Dean Kingston's campus residence. They are in the foyer of the Great Ballroom. Sigrid has changes into formal attire, as has her father. He offers her his arm.
"Would you do the honor of joining your old man to this staid affair?"
"I would be proud to, Dad. We could joke about how serious everyone will be. Great speech by the way."
"Thank you. I was hoping not to cause you too much public embarrassment."
"Dad, I would love to have you speak at my graduation next year."
"You had the credits to graduate this year. Why didn't you?"
"Are you kidding? Son'ya would never speak to me if I left her behind."
"I hope she appreciates what a good friend you are. You are a saint."
"Saint Sigi…nice ring to it, eh?"
Per Erik Horn laughs. His daughter is his pride and joy, a daughter any father would wish for and want for nothing more. She is his golden child.
"Let's go in and have some fun."
"Yes, lets!"