**Chapter 778: Eyes of the Galaxy**
**Scene 1: Senate Gala – Grand Atrium**
**Dagon POV**
*Okay, everything is fine. Just that everyone stopped their conversation and dancing and started staring at us. Is it me? It's probably me. I should leave.*
'No, it's not you. It's us. And the fact that when compared to their own jewelry, ours looks the most high-end. Plus the dresses… and much more,' Sakura replied calmly through the soul bond.
The moment our group stepped fully into the grand atrium, the entire gala seemed to freeze. Music continued, but conversations died mid-sentence. Hundreds of the galaxy's most powerful beings — senators, corporate magnates, military officers, and old money aristocrats — turned as one to look at us.
I stood at the center with Sakura on my right and Miaria on my left, both radiating poise and quiet power. The rest of the girls followed the formation Sakura had drilled into us: Shin, Erictia, Stella, and Flare ahead; Ahsoka and Zule behind us; the Zeltrons and Twi'leks bringing up the rear. Every piece of kyber jewelry caught the light like living stars. The dresses — elegant, bold, and unmistakably tailored for each woman — made the rest of the room's finery look almost ordinary.
I could feel the weight of their stares. Some were curious. Some envious. Many calculating.
Sakura's voice brushed my mind again, warm and confident. *Let them stare. Tonight, the Dragon does not hide.*
**Scene 2: Senate Gala – Observation Balcony**
Lorian motioned for the waiter to come over and took two glasses from the tray, handing one to Raio Cho.
"It's quite lively here," the Pantoran woman noted.
"Yes. Many want to be involved in such an event. Besides, missing an event created by the challenge of Kuat versus Dagon… For many, that would be death," Lorian replied.
"And yet, we are not the main people here today," Raio noted.
Both senators looked toward the entrance as Dagon and his entourage made their way through the crowd. Riyo Chuchi knew exactly who they were — Dagon's harem. She kept her mouth closed, but seeing them all together, especially Flare the Pantoran, filled her with a quiet, burning rage.
"Riyo, how are you enjoying the show?" Lorian asked.
"Very much. It seems Dagon knows how to make an entrance," Riyo said with a forced smile.
"Yes. Three Zeltrons, two incredibly rare Lethan Twi'leks, one blue Twi'lek, a Pantoran, a Togruta, a Falleen-Zeltron hybrid, three female human Jedi knights, and two princesses… Oh, the Demon of the Shield has most certainly been busy," Lorian said, a hint of dark amusement in his voice.
Riyo's grip tightened on her glass until her knuckles turned white.
**Scene 3: Senate Gala – Dance Floor**
**Padmé Amidala POV**
The party was extravagant even for New Year's, but given it was hosted by Kuat, "extravagant" felt like the right word. Corellia, Sienar, Kuat, and many other military companies that funded the war were here — and so was Anakin, serving as her chaperone.
"Well, at least we don't have to worry about what others think with this," Padmé said as she danced with Anakin.
"Why didn't you tell me about the rules and responsibilities of a senator when it comes to relationships?" Anakin asked, voice low.
"I didn't think it would matter. Would you have started a relationship with me if it mattered?" Padmé replied.
"I would have at least thought about it before rushing into marriage. Look at your position — in charge of the Loyalists Committee, the Refugee Relief Movement, and so many others. A scandal could jeopardize everything," Anakin said.
"It seemed to me that you forget I can handle things myself and I certainly don't need you telling me what I can or can't do," Padmé questioned.
"Hey, I went through the archives. Even during the old Republic, no Jedi ever dated a senator. Any other official was fine — even royalty or the Chancellor — but a senator was a no-go. Especially in wartime. You should have at least told me something," Anakin said.
"Yes… well, if you'll excuse me, I must now talk to the man of the hour. Excuse me, chaperone," Padmé said as she left Anakin behind.
*Oh, he is so frustrating. What does he mean by rules and regulations? So all of a sudden he has to hide his relationship from the Order, and now due to the rules he has to make sure I hide mine as well?* Padmé thought, frustration boiling inside her as she moved through the crowd.
Then she saw them.
Dagon and Miaria had taken the center of the main dance floor. The Felacatian mating dance they performed resembled the passionate, dramatic movements of an 'Argentine tango' — intense, precise, and filled with raw sensuality. Miaria's tail moved like a living ribbon, her body flowing perfectly with Dagon's strong lead. Every step, every turn, every close hold spoke of power, grace, and unmistakable chemistry.
Padmé was shocked. It was probably the best dance she had ever seen — apart from the recording from the news report of the battle for Felacat. The entire room watched in rapt silence as the Dragon and the Felacatian Queen commanded the floor.
For a moment, Padmé forgot her anger at Anakin. She simply stared, a complicated mix of admiration and envy stirring in her chest.
The gala continued, but the true center of attention had already been claimed.