CHAPTER TWENTY
The Celebration Ball was the highlight of the Galactic Social Season. Guests arrived from every corner of the Galaxy, which included royalty, heads of state, high-ranking military officers, senators, social elites, and renowned holo-actors and singers. An invitation to the event was highly coveted.
Classical music played softly as guests engaged in animated conversations. Fragrant flower arrangements filled the room with a delicate aroma. The grand chandeliers glowed warmly, illuminating the elegant decorations. Human and droid waitstaff circulated through the crowd, offering delicious canapés or replacing empty flute glasses with full ones.
Han walked through the room, nodding in acknowledgment to a few. He picked up a glass of champagne from a passing waiter's tray while adjusting the collar of his formal suit. No matter how many events he attended, Han never got used to wearing his formal attire.
"Good evening, Han."
Han stepped back, a fatherly smile spreading as he saw Neva's appearance. She looked captivating in a stunning, off-the-shoulder gown that flowed to the floor, its delicate fabric glimmering softly in the light. Matching shoes adorned her feet, perfectly complementing the ensemble. Her long hair was artfully arranged into a curled low chignon, with loose tendrils framing her face and enhancing her graceful allure.
"Neva!" he beamed. "I'm so happy you could join us tonight! By the way, you look absolutely lovely this evening!"
"Thank you so much!" she exclaimed, her cheeks tinted a rosy pink with sheer happiness. Her eyes sparkled like stars, brimming with excitement, as Han watched Neva absorb every exquisite detail of the opulent ballroom.
"I can hardly believe I'm at the Celebration Ball—it's absolutely breathtaking!" Her enthusiasm energized the entire room. When Leia extended the invitation, it felt like a dream come true. Leaning in with a confident smile, she said, "So, this is really happening, right?"
"Yes, it is, Neva," he smiled warmly. "This is not a dream. It's real."
"I had such a blast shopping for a dress! My mom, sister, and a couple of my friends came along to help me decide on a dress. I can't wait to share all the details with you!"
As Neva shared her excitement, Han found his gaze drifting. In his thoughts, Neva became his daughter, Jaina. He envisioned her all grown up, radiant in her evening gown, walking confidently alongside her date. It stirred a deep sense of pride and a poignant reminder of how quickly time passes.
"Come on, Han," he thought, shaking his head slightly to clear his mind. "Jaina is still so young. She has plenty of time before she's ready to start dating."
"Han?"
Neva's gentle voice pulled him back to the moment. He blinked and greeted her with a warm smile. "That's wonderful, Neva!" he replied, genuinely happy for her. "So, where's that fly boy you've been seeing?"
With a thoughtful expression, Neva scanned the lively room filled with laughter and chatter. "He's around here somewhere," she said, her eyes sparkling excitedly. "I'll go find him!"
Han watched as she skillfully walked through the crowd, her infectious enthusiasm bringing smiles to those around her. He couldn't help but feel a mix of nostalgia and anticipation as he thought about the day Jaina would bring her boyfriend home to meet the family. That moment would come sooner than he realized, and he could already imagine the tender yet slightly awkward moments that would unfold—introductions filled with nerves and his instinct to be protective. A smile crept across his face as he chuckled softly, realizing it might be wise to start practicing his "Dad" face; it would be a new chapter in their lives, and he wanted to be ready for it all.
Neva returned with a tall young man. "Han," she said with a bright smile, "I'd like you to meet Oren Gavner!"
"Hey there, Oren!" Han said with a friendly grin, shaking his hand. "It's great to meet you!"
"General Solo," Oren said, shaking Han's hand firmly, his eyes filled with admiration. "It is an honor to meet you, sir." His voice resonated with awe, and Han's smile widened. "I'm a big fan of yours. Your incredible feats—the Kessel Run, the destruction of the Death Star, and your leadership at Endor—have inspired me to become a pilot."
Han nodded, appreciating Oren's sincerity. The young man was genuine in his admiration.
"And the Millennium Falcon—what a ship! It's the best built," Oren said excitedly.
"You're right about the Falcon," Han replied. "Wedge tells me you are a great pilot."
"Oh, he is!" Neva said with enthusiasm. "He's the best pilot the Rogues have ever had."
"Oh, that's not true," Oren said, looking at the floor before meeting Han's gaze again. "But the other pilots are just as good as I am, General Solo."
"Just call me Han," he said confidently, creating a sense of encouragement and support.
Oren stared, open-mouthed, at Han. The man he had idealized for years had told him to call him by his first name. "Okay," he nodded vigorously. "Han."
Han had an idea, believing the young man would accept. "My co-pilot, Chewbacca, is visiting his family, so I need someone to assist me with some cargo runs. Are you interested in being my co-pilot?"
Oren froze, his jaw dropping. "You... you," he stammered. " Do you want me to be your co-pilot?"
"Yes. If you're interested," Han remarked in a mock serious tone.
"You'd bet I'm interested!" Oren replied enthusiastically, wrapping his arms around Neva and lifting her off her feet by the waist. "Did you hear that, Neva? I'm going to co-pilot the Falcon!"
"Oh, Oren, I'm so happy for you," she said, kissing him. "Han, you're getting the best co-pilot ever. I mean, besides Chewbacca."
"I'll talk to Wedge to see if your schedule conflicts with mine. Meet me at Hangar 47 three days from now, and I'll send you the details tomorrow."
"Thank you, thank you, Han," Oren gushed. "Come on, Neva. Let's go tell the Rogues the great news," he said excitedly. "I, Oren Gavner, am going to co-pilot the Falcon!"
Neva blew a kiss to Han. "You're the best!" Oren took her hand, and the couple disappeared into the crowd.
Han chuckled. Lovely couple, he thought. May you two be as happy as Leia and I are.
Han handed his empty glass to a nearby waiter and strolled through the room, greeting guests with a brief 'hello' and a nod. He stopped as he observed the most beautiful woman in the room, indeed, in the Galaxy: his wife, Leia.
Leia looked stunning in a striking red strapless dress. A necklace, a gift from him on their last anniversary, adorned her neck. Her hair was styled in a glamorous updo, featuring a thin braid wrapped around the bun, with a string of pearls as a headband.
Han watched her engage in small talk with several guests. How did I end up with the most beautiful, courageous, intelligent, and stubborn woman in the Galaxy?
I thought there was a time when I didn't want to be involved with anyone. Then, I saved Chewie's life. His code of honor compelled him to stand by my side, to help and defend me. I didn't want it, but he refused to leave me. The Wookiee soon became my dearest friend.
Lando Calrissian. The shrewdest gambler and risk-taker I had ever met. We had differences, like when he handed me over to Vader on Cloud City. But Lando helped rescue me and fought with the Rebels against the Empire.
Little did I know that meeting the Kid and the Old Man in the cantina would change my life forever. It led me to become a fighter against the Empire. Consequently, I helped rescue a princess who became the love of my life.
Han, my boy, you are one lucky, stuck-up, half-witted, scruffy-looking nerf herder.
Leia smiled as he approached her. "Han, I believe you know Baron and Baroness Saken, along with General Crozier."
"Good evening," he said, shaking hands with everyone before taking his wife's arm. "Will you excuse us for a moment? I need to speak with my wife. It's urgent." Han guided her to a large partition that would provide privacy.
"What is it?" she asked, her voice more serious. "What's wrong?" Her muscles tensed, bracing for the worst possible outcome.
Safely behind the partition, Han pulled Leia close and gave her a long, passionate kiss.
""So?" Leia said coyly. "What's the urgent matter you mentioned?"
"I had to tell you how much I love you," he replied, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. "How about you and I get out of here?" he whispered seductively. "To someplace a lot more private?"
"Han," her voice trembled with nervous excitement. "We'll be missed."
"So? We'll be back in an hour… or two." He slid his hand to the small of her back, gently caressing her with his .
"It's very tempting," she whispered, touching the tip of his nose with her finger. "I might even wear that certain outfit you like so much. That is, if you want me to."
"I think you already know the answer," he whispered.
Leia giggled, her cheeks turning pink. "We need to go back," she whispered. "But keep that thought for later." Leia took his hand, and they reentered the ballroom.
"There you are," Lando said as he spotted them. "I've been looking all over for you. Mind telling me where you've been?"
"We were just having a private chat," Han winked.
"Of course," Lando laughed. "Leia, you are beautiful as always." The two kissed each other. He looked Han up and down. "I can't believe you got your husband into his formal clothes."
"Don't think it wasn't easy," she joked. "Sometimes, I think he's worse than the children."
"Very funny," Han replied. "So, where is the lucky lady you brought with you tonight?"
"I'm afraid I'm here alone tonight." Lando sadly shook his head. "If I take one lady, I'll disappoint all the rest."
"You wouldn't want that, would you?" Leia joked.
"Of course not, " the friends laughed. "So." Lando rubbed his hands together. "Who wants to make a bet?"
Leia groaned. "So help me, if you have a card game in the back room…"
"Nothing like that," he laughed. "The bet is whether or not a certain red-headed female will show up tonight."
"You're talking about Mara?" Han replied in a caustic tone.
"The one and only," Lando said. "And we're not the only ones. Take a look."
"Where?" Han asked.
"Near the bottom of the staircase. Look to the left side," Lando gestured with his chin.
Han and Leia turned their attention to that spot. Luke was speaking to several guests. Han shook his head. "It's Luke talking to some people. So what?"
"Now," Lando held up his hand. "Look to the right."
Sebastian was also engaged in conversation with some people. When Threepio introduced a guest, the two men looked up briefly before returning to their discussions.
"What did you say?" Lando tilted his head. "Who wants to bet she'll show up?"
"I'd give it fifty-fifty," Han commented. "What do you think, Leia?"
"Will Mara show up?" Leia repeated in wonder. "The last time I spoke to her, she hadn't decided."
"Then again, she is a woman." Han winked at Lando. "You know how unpredictable they can be," he joked.
"Don't I know it?" Lando laughed.
"Is that a fact?" Leia said sarcastically, placing her hand on her hip. "If I thought you two were serious, I'd smack both of you out of your senses."
"Now, sweetheart," Han said, wrapping his arm around her. "You know we're only joking."
"You'd better be." Leia playfully elbowed him in the ribs.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Threepio announced. "Mistress Mara Jade, Senior Jedi Student."
"Looks like we have our answer," Lando remarked.
Mara entered, removing her cape and handing it to a nearby droid, revealing her beautiful shimmersilk dress. Her stunning red hair was styled in an updo, secured with a gold barrette. She wore soft satin heels that complemented her dress. She surveyed the room below like a queen looking over her subjects.
"That dress," Leia whispered. "I've never seen anything so lovely."
"She is stunning," Han nodded. "Next to you, of course."
"Damn," Lando exclaimed. "That lady knows how to make an entrance."
While not everyone in the room noticed Mara, a handful did, including Chavi and her friends. Her eyes darkened, and her face contorted as she stared bitterly at Mara. Her fury intensified as she listened to several people nearby compliment Mara.
"Look at her," one man remarked. "She is drop-dead gorgeous."
"I agree," another person chimed in. "I would love to have a dance with her."
"Such an interesting woman," someone remarked.
Chavi downed her champagne in a single gulp, handing the empty glass to a passing servant before snatching another from his tray. Her eyes narrowed into slits, brimming with animosity. "How dare she show up here?" Chavi muttered through clenched teeth.
"It must have taken her days to achieve that look," Kateena added, her tone dripping with cynicism.
"Who does she think she is?" Dara exclaimed, her voice sharp.
"I don't know," Pala shrugged, conceding. "But you have to admit, she looks incredible. And that dress? It makes our outfits seem dull by comparison."
"Shut up!" Chavi hissed, her gaze warning her to be silent. Pala recoiled, and even Dara and Kateena trembled internally, fully aware that their friend was not in the mood for compliments toward the Jedi.
"I've seen gowns far more stunning," Chavi pouted. "I wonder where she managed to 'procure' that dress. She either stole it or forced some poor woman to give it to her."
Chavi leaned in closer to her friends, lowering her voice conspiratorially. "The only reason she's here is that the senator is her best friend," she hissed. "And I still believe those rumors about her and the viscount have some truth to them," Chavi whispered, her tone heavy with vitriol.
Sebastian felt touched that Mara wore the gown his mother had given her. He wanted to meet her as she descended the stairs but hesitated. Luke was approaching to greet her, so he decided to wait for the right moment to speak with her.
Luke could hardly believe his eyes. He walked toward her as if pulled into a tractor beam, losing all awareness of his surroundings. Mara was beautiful, but tonight, she was stunning.
"Good evening, Master Skywalker," she greeted him with a smile and a nod.
Luke opened his mouth to respond, but no words came out as her beauty captivated him.
"What's wrong, Farm Boy?" Mara asked, a playful gleam in her eyes. "Ewok got your tongue?" she teased.
"N... no. It's just... just," he stammered. "I've never seen you like this," he said dreamily.
"You see, Master Skywalker, I own regular clothes besides flight suits," she teased.
"Obviously," he murmured.
"Anything else, Master Skywalker?" Mara teased.
"Uh," Luke responded, coming to his senses. "Shall I take you to our table?"
"Yes."
He held out his hand, and she accepted it. Her hand was soft and elegant. Why have I never noticed her hands before? Maybe it's because I've never held them.
Mara smiled. Luke looked handsome in his formal wear tonight. I've never seen him like this before.
"Master Skywalker."
"Yes?"
"Your hand is trembling," she observed with a playful tone.
"Is it?" he asked, feeling a slight quiver in his hand. "I wasn't aware."
"You've never held a woman's hand before?" Her eyes sparkled with mischief.
""Of course I have," he said with a blush, a smile playing on his lips.
"Ah, but Leia doesn't count," she teased.
"Very funny," he shot back, chuckling. "Maybe my hand is trembling because I'm just not used to holding hands with someone as beautiful as you."
Luke felt his heart race. Did I say that? Why do I feel all fluttery inside?
"Really?" Mara replied, her surprise evident. "I think that's the first compliment I've ever received from you!"
"I've complimented you before," Luke argued playfully.
"Really?" Mara raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Can you remind me of one?"
"I've praised your lightsaber skills!"
"Touché!" Mara laughed and lightly tapped him on the arm.
Their playful banter was so delightful it made him feel light as a feather. As Luke gazed into her lovely green eyes, he longed to share everything he felt for her.
"Just speak from your heart, Luke."
His mother's encouraging words echoed in his mind, calming his nerves and filling him with newfound confidence.
"Mara?"
"Yes?"
It was at this moment that Sebastian decided to intervene. "Mara, Master Skywalker," he greeted Luke with a firm handshake. A forced smile crossed Luke's face as he watched the Viscount gently kiss Mara on the cheek. Why does he have to interrupt us?
"You look stunning," Sebastian declared. "As beautiful as the first time I saw you."
"At the Emperor's Palace?" Mara teased. "I would have killed you that day if Palpatine had ordered me to."
Luke rolled his eyes inwardly. It's too bad you didn't, he thought, feeling annoyed.
"I must say..." Mara caught sight of the two men. "You both look handsome tonight," she added. Mara clapped her hands together. "Now, I would love to meet the lucky ladies who are your dates for the evening."
Luke and Sebastian froze, exchanging brief, awkward glances. Luke rubbed the back of his neck, looking around as if he wanted to escape. Sebastian tugged at his collar to relieve the sudden heat that engulfed him.
"I don't have a date," Luke confessed, frowning slightly. He regretted not seizing the opportunity to ask her earlier.
Sebastian glanced at the floor and then nodded. "Neither do I," he said softly. A similar thought crossed his mind: Maybe I should have trusted my instincts instead of following Marcus's advice.
"What?" Mara gasped. "Two such handsome men without dates? Oh well. It's a loss for the ladies in the galaxy," she mused.
"Mara!" Leia exclaimed as she, Han, and Lando approached her. "That dress is gorgeous!"
"Grand Duchess Selah designed this dress just for me. It was an honor to receive such a wonderful gift!"
"Thank you, Mara!" Sebastian said with a friendly grin. He turned to Luke and said, "If you don't mind, I 'd love to borrow Mara for a moment." He offered his arm to her. "There are some folks here I'd like her to meet."
"I have some people here who are eager to see you," Luke replied, offering his arm as well.
Mara lifted her chin, her eyes playfully darting between Luke and Sebastian. "You boys are too sweet! I would be happy to meet all of them. However, I promised certain individuals I would speak to them when I arrived. Look, I see the Ultans over there. I'd be thrilled to introduce you if you want to join me!" She extended her arms to both men.
Han and Lando turned away, struggling to suppress their laughter, while Leia giggled quietly. Luke let out a low sigh as Sebastian stared down at the floor. Meanwhile, Mara was determined to pursue her desires without compromise. The only option for the men was to comply with Mara's wishes.
"Absolutely!" Luke nodded enthusiastically.
"Yes, I'd love that too!" Sebastian added, smiling.
Mara confidently led Luke and Sebastian through the bustling ballroom, her demeanor radiating poise. Guests acknowledged them with smiles and nods, their whispers buzzing with excitement. With two of the Galaxy's most eligible and handsome bachelors by her side, Mara felt a rush of triumph. The envy emanating from several women only reinforced her sense of accomplishment.
As she approached the table where Dara, Kateena, and Chavi were seated, she slowed her pace deliberately, fully aware that all eyes were on her. Pala smiled quickly with her back to her friends, but the others' glaring expressions revealed discontent. Instead of flinching, Mara embraced their scrutiny, flashing a self-assured smile in their direction.
"Ladies! " Is that really how you choose to speak about me? Honestly, that seems quite unbecoming for someone in your position," she thought. Mara laughed, drawing the attention of several onlookers.
Luke and Sebastian exchanged bemused glances. "What's so funny?" Luke asked, clearly intrigued.
"I'm happy, that's all," Mara replied, a sense of euphoria washing over her..
Chavi watched intently as the trio confidently approached the Ultans and their guests. Her anger faded, replaced by sharpened curiosity. A determined smile crossed her lips. She was curious to see how this would all play out.
Threepio scanned the room with a sense of satisfaction. The evening had been a success; everything went according to plan, with no mishaps in the kitchen. Guests praised the menu and complimented the chefs for preparing an exceptional feast. "Oh, I almost forgot!" he said with a smile. "I need to chat with the master of the orchestra. His Grace requested a special song for the band to play." Threepio briefly glanced out at the dance floor and couldn't help but admire Luke and Mara. "I must say, Master Luke and Miss Jade make a lovely couple."
At the VIP table, the Ultans confidently recounted their first encounter with Mara to Sebastian. "You should have seen her outrun those pirates!" Binz Ultan declared, striking the table with conviction. "They never stood a chance against Miss Jade!"
"That's why we always ask Karrde if she can assist us in transporting our cargo," Kaina added, her eyes sparkling with admiration for Mara. "What a wonderful woman."
"I share that sentiment," Sebastian nodded, stifling a yawn, though he enjoyed the conversation.
"Excuse me, Your Grace," Threepio said as he bowed. "I have spoken to the conductor. He will play the Al'Valtna after this song."
"Thank you, Threepio," Sebastian smiled.
"And, as per your request," the droid continued, "anyone wishing to participate may do so."
"Did you hear that, Binz?" Kaina said excitedly. "We haven't danced that dance in years. Let's join in!"
"Honey," her husband replied, shaking his head, "we were a lot younger then."
"You don't have to do every step," she playfully slapped his hand. "Just the ones we can manage." The couple joined hands, exchanging warm smiles. Sebastian broke into a small smile, but sadness crept into his mind. If only he could have experienced that kind of love with Mara. No, he thought, that is over.
Luke smiled as he and Mara danced, feeling more comfortable on the dance floor. The training he received before his sister's wedding had instilled confidence in him, but Luke still felt a bit self-conscious.
"I must admit, Farm-Boy," Mara teased, "you're not a bad dancer!"
"Oh, come on, Mara!" Luke laughed. "You're just saying that to make me feel better!"
"No, I'm not," Mara shook her head. "I've had some pretty terrible dance partners in my life. You are not one of them."
"If you judge my dancing skills by not stepping on your toes, then I'm not half bad," he joked.
"Nonsense," Mara replied gently. "Your moves are graceful and fluid. I think you have a natural talent."
"Thanks," Luke blushed. "I didn't learn to dance when I lived on Tatooine."
"I started dance lessons soon after I turned five," she added. "From classical to modern to ballroom."
"Maybe you can teach me some of those steps?"
His question startled both of them. Luke froze; his eyes widened. Why the hell did I ask that?
Mara's expression softened. "I would be happy to do that."
"You...you would?" Luke felt like a teenager asking the most beautiful girl in school for a date. He couldn't believe she had agreed to help him.
"Ladies and gentlemen," the conductor announced. "We hope you are enjoying the music. We will take a short break and return in a few moments."
Luke and Mara applauded before heading to their table. "I would love to teach you, Farm Boy. There's just one thing."
"What's that?"
"You'll have to wear tights and a tutu."
"Fat chance." They laughed, and Luke enjoyed their light-hearted banter.
"Just a second. I need to remove my barrette; it's been bothering me for the last hour." She reached up to her head and took it out, letting her reddish-golden hair cascade down beautifully, framing her face. Luke felt his heart start to beat a little faster. He looked away, trying to gather the courage to ask her if she would accompany him for a walk in the gardens.
He took a seat next to her. "Uh, Mara?"
"Yes?"
Luke cleared his throat. "Would you like to walk with me in the gardens?"
A warm and caring smile spread across her face. She opened her mouth to respond. However, Sebastian interrupted her.
"Mara, Luke," he said, sitting next to Mara. "You were both wonderful on the dance floor."
"Thanks," Luke muttered sarcastically.
"Luke is a great dance partner," Mara added, smiling at him.
"Ladies and gentlemen," the conductor announced, "may I have your attention? Our special guest, Viscount Sebastian Al'Guion, has requested that we perform the music for the Al'Vanta dance. Anyone wishing to participate may do so."
Sebastian placed his hand over Mara's. "Mara, may I have this next dance?"
Luke watched in surprise as a serene expression settled on Mara's face. It was a side of her he had never seen before, which further piqued his interest. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead as he struggled to look away. Despite his efforts, his gaze remained fixed on Mara and Sebastian as they stepped onto the dance floor. Other couples joined them, but Luke focused solely on Mara and Sebastian.
He wasn't the only one watching the couple. Chavi had moved from her table to one much closer, allowing her to observe Mara, Sebastian, and Luke at his table.
Suddenly, a sharp, cold pain resonated throughout Luke's consciousness, accompanied by a faint, sinister laugh echoing in his ears. Luke slammed his eyes shut. "Leave me alone," he growled, reaching out to the Force.
"Don't be a fool, Boy."
The room soon filled with the enchanting music of the Al'Vanta. Couples greeted each other with graceful bows and polite curtsies. Luke watched as Mara and Sebastian danced. He skillfully guided Mara across the floor, showcasing a series of elaborate yet sensual steps that outshone the other couples.
They began their dance in perfect harmony, with Sebastian smoothly moving to the left while Mara stepped to her right. She confidently grasped his arm as he extended it, allowing him to pull her close before executing a lovely twirl. Sebastian guided Mara across the floor, displaying a captivating series of intricate yet sensual steps that enthralled the audience.
Luke watched intently, admiring Sebastian's flair, confidence, and elegance. In contrast, he felt somewhat out of place and awkward, and his dance moves were stiff.
"They dance well together, don't they?" Palpatine taunted.
"You're the one who saw she should learn how to dance," Luke stated firmly. "They're friends, and that's all there is to it," he asserted, his teeth clenched in irritation.
"Are you certain about that? Remember, they first met when Sebastian arrived at the Imperial Palace."
Luke ignored the comment, taking deep breaths to keep himself from lashing out. He focused intently on Mara. A captivating glow radiated from her face, and her eyes were only half-open, as if still lost in a dream. She danced with complete freedom, her movements unrestricted. The elegance and grace in her style only amplified her beauty.
"Yes," he replied confidently, "I was informed that they had a brief flirtation."
Sadness filled Luke's consciousness, and a sick feeling added to his anxiety. Jealousy soon pervaded his senses. He tightened his jaw, never taking his eyes off the couple. How much more of this could he endure?
"I summoned Mara and Sebastian to the Throne Room, but they insisted there was nothing between them."
Sebastian twirled Mara around before lifting her into the air. "When I do this again, pretend as though you are flying," he whispered in her ear. They danced a few more steps, and then he lifted her again, spinning her. Mara stretched out her arms, half-closed her eyes, and lifted her head, laughing like she had no care in the Galaxy.
"However, I sensed a particular attraction between the two. Mara pledged her allegiance to me, and I sensed her loyalty. However, I believe she still has feelings for him. And he for her."
"You're wrong." Luke placed his hand on his lightsaber, wishing he could kill the Emperor. His head spun, and a tightness grew in his chest.
"Deep down inside, my Boy, you know I am right." His harsh, icy laugh resonated through Luke's consciousness.
Leia was chatting with Han and several military officers when the sharp, cold pain returned to her consciousness. Leia quickly glanced at her brother, sensing the conflict he was experiencing. "Excuse me," she whispered. Leia rushed over to Luke and sat beside him.
"Luke," she said, placing her hand on his.
"The Emperor is lying," he whispered, trembling.
"What?"
"About Mara and Sebastian," he whispered bitterly.
"You know he is," Leia insisted.
The dance concluded, and the audience erupted in applause. Sebastian placed his hand on Mara's shoulder, and she closed her eyes as he kissed her cheek, a look of sensual pleasure spreading across her face. However, when she opened her eyes, her expression changed dramatically. Her jaw dropped, her eyes widened in disbelief, and disappointment etched across her features, all unbeknownst to Luke.
"Leia, I have to leave. Don't worry, I'll be fine," Luke said as he rose from his chair and headed toward the side exit.
"Luke, wait!" she called, following closely behind. "Please, talk to me," she pleaded.
Chavi's face was filled with a satisfied smile as she tapped her fingers on the table, convinced she was right.
Leia caught up with Luke, grabbing his arm. "I'll go with you. I don't want to leave you."
"I'll be fine, Leia," he replied solemnly. "I just need to be alone right now."
Luke hurried away, and tears filled Leia's eyes as she watched her brother disappear into the night.
"Leia," Han asked, concerned. "What's going on?"
Feeling overwhelmed, Leia collapsed in his arms, crying. Han held her close, offering her the strength and love she needed..