“Incredible,” Soh said happily, her teenage son standing sulkily beside her.

“I’m glad you think so, Chancellor,” Samera acknowledged before returning to her prepared spiel. “Forty-two individual islands, each representing a key member of the Republic. Here visitors will be able to experience everything the Republic has to offer, from the golden beaches of Spira and island spires of Bestine, to the bustling markets of Jaresh and fashion emporiums of Alderaan.”

“How will visitors travel from one to another?” Larep Reza asked.

“An excellent question. Guests will be transported in unique repulsorpods, decorated with designs appropriate to the native system of the planets themselves. Pods, incidentally, that will be available to buy in miniature from every gift stall and toy shop within the park.”

Stellan smiled politely as a chuckle rippled through the party, using the opportunity to glance at Elzar. His friend was sharing a private joke with Tiss, the ambassador obviously enjoying the moment. Elzar seemed to have relaxed. Perhaps Stellan should do the same.

“You worry too much,” a voice seemed to say in the back of his head. Avar’s voice, an echo from years ago when he had first brought up Elzar’s black moods. “Elzar knows what he is doing. He’s a good Jedi, Stellan. And besides, even if he wasn’t, he’s got you to watch out for him.”

Avar was right. Avar was always right. No one was free of frustration, not even legends like Grand Master Veter. Stellan had realized that soon enough in his first Council sessions, but like Veter, Elzar could control his grievances. All would be well.

“We were hoping we would be able to give you a sneak peek of just a couple of the pavilions, starting with lunch on the Hetzal platform. The grilled vando-fruit in particular is to die for, especially after a long journey.”

“An excellent idea,” said a heavily accented voice. “Am I too late to join you all for lunch?”

Everyone turned to see a jowl-faced Sullustan hurrying toward them, with a mountain of an Orzrelanso in a suit that did little to disguise his physique striding after him.

Norel Quo and Larep Reza reacted as one, stepping in front of Soh as if the newcomer was about to pull a blaster on the chancellor.

“Senator Toon,” Reza said in a tone that could freeze lava, “how marvelous it is to see you again.”

“And you, my friends,” Toon replied, acknowledging the rest of the group, bowing his head particularly toward Stellan. “Council Member.”

Stellan returned the gesture, turning on his most diplomatic smile as the Sullustan turned to the chancellor, bowing extravagantly.

“Madam Chancellor.”

Quo and Reza were forced to step aside as Soh approached the newcomer, her targons padding with her. She extended a hand, which the senator took with good grace. “Senator, we weren’t expecting you so soon.”