Chapter Seven

"Good evening Senator Amidala."

"Good evening Senator, Your Highness. I hope you are both having a pleasant time?"

"The decorations are lovely, Padme. You've really outdone yourself."

"Thank you, although I'll admit it's making me a little homesick, Breha."

"I can imagine. Corsucant is so different from Naboo."

"Yes it is, but this is my home now."

"And we're so glad you're with us. Your opinions and vote in many issues are vital to the ongoing democratic…"

"Bail, I thought we promised not to talk politics tonight."

"You're right. My apologies, my dear."

"What I was thinking, Padme, is that it's about time you settle down and begin raising a family. As you know, Bail and I are unable to have children, but what is holding you back? You'd make a wonderful mother."

"I thought we discussed no matchmaking, as well."

"I can't help it, darling. Padme is too beautiful to be alone."

"Please, Breha. You're making me blush. I've just been too busy, that's all. And besides, there's no one here who really interests me."

"Is that so? I could've sworn…"

"Now, stop Bail. She's turning even redder."

"Just trying to push things along. Speaking of…here comes the man himself. Good evening, Master Kenobi."

A Caldobian fireball. That's what she reminds him off. Always spinning out of control, spewing clusters of noxious gas wherever it goes. And hot. Did he mention she was hot?

Never mind that, he has to keep his focus and distract her away from his Master. Maybe she'll dance with him.

"Sure, I'll dance, but only if you promise me to introduce me to your Master afterward."

"After," Anakin lies, especially now that he has seen a miracle occur without his any action on his part. His Master and Padme are actually talking! They're not alone, of course. Senator Organa and his wife are there, but they're looking at one another, and they're speaking.

At least it's a start. There's no way Anakin's going to allow Delphi to interrupt this progress.

The vivacious young woman twirls around him, shaking her rump upon retreat. Before she can make contact with his crotch, Anakin stops her movements with both hands placed upon on her slim waist. He feels more like an observer than a participator in this dance, but Delphi doesn't seem to mind. She spins round to face him and a giggle lights up her face. Whether she's having a good time or laughing at him, Anakin can't be sure.

"It seems your Padawan is having a good time, Master Kenobi."

All eyes in the group turn toward the dance floor following Bail Organa's observation.

Obi-Wan takes a drink from a passing droid. "Ah yes. He's always the popular one at these sort of events. Never seems to have a trouble making new friends."

It's Breha, the Queen of Alderaan who states the obvious question. "Who's he dancing with?"

"That's Master Windu's niece, recently arrived from Haruun Kal. I believe this is her first Celebration."

"She's certainly….under-dressed for the occasion." The words come out before Padme can stop them, but thankfully as complimentary as possible.

"I don't think it's a matter of lack of modesty, Padme," Breha points out.

"Exactly," Obi-Wan agrees. "Her home planet is very...humid."

Alarm bells are ringing, warning lights flashing as the music switches to a slow, driving rhythm. Anakin is about to suggest drinks when Delphi presses up against him, her thin, golden arms slung about his neck, a seductive smile revealing straight, white teeth.

She really is an attractive young woman, so Anakin's response is normal. As normal as any other sexually active sixteen-year-old human male's. He can feel the beginnings of an erection and his heart rate has increased. Now what's he supposed to do?

A glance over her shoulder reveals Master Windu in the background finishing up a conversation with Yoda before he heads back across the room to the dining area. He hasn't even glanced their way, and Anakin wonders if the Jedi has any idea what kind of girl his niece actually is.

"Master Windu. How are you this evening?"

"Senators, Queen Breha, I am well. Thank you. Pardon my intrusion, but I need to speak with Master Kenobi."

"Well then, please excuse us."

"It's nothing that important." Mace stops the group from splitting. "You don't need to leave. I just need to clear something up."

Obi-Wan senses the serious undertone in Master Windu's request, and out of habit, crosses his arms, tucking his hands into the sleeves of his dress tunic. "What is it Mace?"

"I need to ensure your participation in the auction tonight. I'm afraid my niece has developed a fascination for the only Jedi who has defeated a Sith."

"Mace, I don't think I'm.." Obi-Wan stammers.

"Before you say no, perhaps you should take another look at your potential bidder."

A long sideways glance toward the Senator from Alderaan transforms from accusatory to playful. "You're in on this too, Bail?"

"Not me. I don't have any idea what you're talking about."

Mace Windu, as usual, will not take no for an answer. "I'm afraid my niece has a bit of a crush, I'll admit, but I trust you to use your better judgment."

"I don't know Mace..."

Obi-Wan's focus turns to his boots as he obviously struggles to come up with a valid excuse. that is, until the softspoken voice of the Senator from Naboo interrupts his thoughts.

"If you'll allow me. Master Kenobi? I coordinated this auction tonight to raise funds for an extremely worthy cause. You of all people are aware of the need for support to help younglings in the outer systems. I was hoping to raise an amount substantial enough to eliminate at least part of that need."

"In that case, Senator Amidala, you have my full cooperation."