Anniversary Reflections

The Room Behind the Waterfall was bustling with activity, senshi rushing in all directions as preparations were made for the group's second anniversary party. Six years had passed on Coruscant, meaning that two full years had passed on Earth since the first senshi came to the Snickers Galaxy.

Yukiko was on her knees digging through the back of her closet looking for banners from the last anniversary party. Sneezing at the angry dustbunnies who had been disturbed by her searching, Yukiko was about to give up when she came across what felt like a rolled-up pile of cloth. Tugging and pulling, the ice senshi finally managed to pull the pile free of the clutter. With a cry of triumph she shook her prize out, revealing lovely banners of red and gold silk. "Ouch!" she exclaimed as a small hard object fell out of the folds of the banners and hit her foot. To Yuki's astonishment, the small object turned out to be a holocube. Pushing the banners to one side, Yukiko slowly sat on the edge of her bed and touched the cube's button. Holos of people dancing, piles of food being eagerly consumed and friends smiling happily floated above her hand. Yuki smiled wistfully as she realized that it was a holo she'd made of the last anniversary party. So much had happened since then! So much had changed, yet so much was still the same. Sighing, she allowed her memory to wander back to that special time, three short years ago...

Yukiko wearily trudged towards the Room Behind the Waterfall, dragging a rather large and heavy suitcase-on-wheels behind her, a peacefully sleeping Riko draped across her shoulders. She had just spent the last two weeks on Hoth, attending the annual Ice Festival as Princess Kyri-lyn/Sailor Hoth. Riko, her little arctic fox, had been thrilled to get her paws into some real snow again, happily teasing the slow-moving taun-tauns.

It should have been a fun time, snowboarding and snowspeeder racing by day, parties and balls every night, and squeezing in the occasional formal meeting with the ruling High Council, but Yukiko had been haunted by sadness for most of the trip. She was glad to be back home at the Temple, its peace and serenity a balm to her troubled spirit.

As it was evening Coruscant time, Yukiko looked forward to nothing more trying than a quick snack and a good night's sleep.

As soon as she opened the door, Yukiko stopped in the doorway and stared in amazement. At this time of the evening, the large common room was usually rather quiet, with only the occasional night-loving senshi reading, drawing or surfing the Galactic Net or watching holovids. But tonight, there were excited senshi, boxes of colorful decorations, and bags of groceries everywhere. Riko sent Yuki a mental snort and headed for their room at top speed, winding smoothly through the chaos, wanting nothing more than peace, quiet and her own comfy basket bed.

At the hub of all the activity, Seiun calmly directed the flow of material, her diplomatic training helping to smooth over conflicts, calm rattled nerves, and encourage when needed. Kairiku, the second-in-command for this complex operation, checked off the incoming supplies on her datapad, while making sure a senshi was assigned to every necessary task for tomorrow. The teenager was in heaven, helping plan such a major event.

Annika, carrying a box of colorful paper lanterns, was the only one to notice Yuki frozen in the doorway. "Yuki-chan!!" she exclaimed happily, dropping the box to give her friend a welcome back hug. "You made it back just in time for the party!"

"Party? What party?" asked the bewildered girl.

"Why, the party celebrating the first senshi coming to this galaxy from Earth, of course!" Ippin replied, slightly out-of-breath as she and Priire staggered past; the twins struggling with a large box loaded with anime for the holovid room. One of the mechanically adept senshi had adapted a large screen Earth TV and VCR to work on Coruscant power. The TV shared space with a modern holovid unit in a viewing lounge off the common room. The lounge, furnished with many comfy pillows and chairs was a favorite place for vid nights.

"Kairiku!" Priire called over her shoulder, "shouldn't we set up a separate viewing room for the Chibis? I know Coru has an extra Earth TV/VCR combo somewhere..." Several tapes fell off the stack as she turned. "Oh, Sithspit!" she muttered.

"Great idea, Priire! We can use the library. I'll get someone on it right away!" Kairiku replied, jotting down a note on her organizer datapad and grabbing Kumoko.

"What do you mean...?" Yuki asked in a bit of daze as she picked up the fallen tapes and helped the twins stabilize their pile.

"Thanks, Yuki!" Ippin puffed. "Don't you remember? After all, you're one of those first five! Numako calculated long ago that time passed differently here and in the Earth galaxy, three years here for every year back on Earth..."

As more tapes threatened to fall, Priire growled, "Arrrgh! Let's move before we lose them all, Coru!"

Yukiko nodded thoughtfully as the two staggered off to the holovid lounge. "So one year has finally passed on Earth?"

"Correct you are. Party time it is," giggled green-haired Numako as she raced past, munching happily on a sweet cake she'd swiped from the kitchen.

"Numa-chan, Nom made those specially for tomorrow!" wailed Chouko as she pursued the laughing senshi. She almost ran over Sutaru, who was struggling to carry four huge tubs of ice cream.

"Careful, Chou-chan!" the Corellian senshi cried. "You almost made me drop the ice cream."

"Do you think you have enough?" chuckled Rene as she and Mika carried more bags of groceries past Sutaru, on their way to the large kitchen where they and other talented cooks were preparing a huge feast for the next day.

"There's no such thing as too much ice cream!" Mika laughed, then tripped over a nearby box. "Oops!" she cried as her bag headed for the floor. Luckily, Xarae was nearby and rescued the groceries from disaster, catching them with the Force.

"Careful!" the dark haired senshi smiled as she helped Mika up and floated the bag of groceries back to her. Xarae had a special fondness for the younger senshi and always kept a protective eye over them.

"Come join us, Yuki-chan" said Zyta from the table where she, Kirana, Oola and some of the other musically or artistically inclined senshi sat discussing entertainment possibilities. "We're thinking about celebrating Earth cultures as well as showcasing some of our local talent." She winked at Oola, who just grinned.

Kirana spoke up. "We've got some singers and dancers already lined up and we've talked Kami into doing a martial arts demo. I was thinking that you could also do a Japanese-style one to show the differences in styles or perhaps a traditional Japanese dance?"

Yuki blushed slightly. She'd developed quite a crush on Ben, and would love to be able to impress him in some way, but he and Magena seemed awfully close. "How about a traditional sword dance?" she replied with a shy smile.

"Sounds great!" exclaimed Zyta, jotting a note in her datapad. "Then later we can play a mix of Earth and Republic dance music... and Ippin is providing the anime for the vid rooms..." She and Kirana continued to pour over the piles of music and notes they'd gathered on the table.

Nom, Ciel, and Hisui passed by, each carrying a heavily laden tray of goodies to the central tables. "This is extra food for taste-testing," smirked Hisui. "We must make sure this stuff is good enough for tomorrow."

"I still do not understand this taste-testing," grumbled Nom. "The food turned out perfectly, as expected."

"Hisui told me it's an old Earth custom," Ciel replied with a grin. "Sounds like a good one to me." There was a quick rush for the tables, as eager senshi happily "tested" the food.

Smiling wryly, Yukiko just shook her head and continued on down the hall to her room, tugging her suitcase behind. She sighed in relief as the noise level dropped dramatically as the door closed behind her. It had been a long trip. Riko was already curled up in her wicker basket at the foot of Yuki's bed, white bushy tail draped elegantly over her nose, having first properly molded her plump fluffy pillow into just the right shape.

"Well, Riko," Yukiko sighed. "It's hard to believe that a whole year has passed on Earth. This has been the only place I've felt at home since my parents died." Only soft snores could be heard in reply. She smiled sadly as she bowed respectfully to her little family shrine on a small table against one wall. A simple Japanese wall scroll with a traditional brush painting of a Kirin hung above the small grouping of precious items on the kamidana, next to her weapons rack.

She hauled her suitcase over to her neatly organized desk above which hung a medium-sized tapestry depicting the building of the current Ice Castle Dome on Hoth. Digging around in it a bit, she pulled out a little box. Yukiko carefully laid the box on her desk amid the neat piles of datapads. "I hope it wasn't damaged in the trip," she muttered. Opening the box, she checked that Chouko's delicate birthday present, a lovely crystal butterfly with shadings of royal blue and purple, was still in perfect shape. Sighing in relief, she turned, only to notice a pile of manga on the floor next to the desk.

"Chikusho!" Yukiko grumbled. "I've told Annika not to leave my manga on the floor when she's done reading them!" She picked them up and stuffed them back on the bookcase next to the desk. The bookcase was the only cluttered place in her tidy room, packed with her collection of fantasy books, manga, and little mementos from the various planets she'd visited. She sighed again and headed back out to the common room, hoping that there were a few goodies left.

The chaos had calmed considerably as most senshi with stomachs happily full had already headed off to bed. But some still hung around the last of the goodies. Yukiko grabbed a chocolate treat and settled into a comfy chair.

"Yum!" sighed a happy Lys as she reached for one last sweet cake. "What was that wonderful stuff with the red fruit on top?"

"I think Hisui called it strawberry cheesecake," answered a blissful Chakra, mouth smeared with berry juice. "I love Earth food!" she sighed happily.

"Well, we're just fortunate that Coru was willing to make a few supply runs to Earth especially for this occasion," reminded an equally satiated Priire as she licked the last crumb of cake from her fingers.

"Thanks, Ippin!" came a chorus of cheers from the gathered senshi.

The flame-haired Guardian just smiled as she petted a purring Schylar. "I usually enjoy the trips."

"Earth sounds like an intriguing place to study different cultures," sighed Ciel enviously. She then grinned. "But I'd really like to go shopping there. I love some of the clothes the Earth-born girls have!"

I believe I love Earth music best, came the quiet sending of Koumi, sitting in the shadows.

"Definitely!" agreed Seiun. She flipped back her dark burgundy hair and continued. "It will be great to see what the entertainment committee comes up with."

"I am hoping they will include some Savage Garden music," mused Nom, reworking one of her green-tipped warrior braids.

"Don't worry, Nom," reassured a sleepy Kirana, twirling a piece of her own pearlescent hair in her fingers. "We've included a great mix of music!"

"Music is fine, but my favorite thing from Earth is manga," laughed Sutaru.

"Me too!" "Of course!" came simultaneous reply from Lys and Annika. The other senshi burst out laughing at the looks on the two senshi's faces.

"Like mother, like daughter," laughed Yukiko. "Just remember to put my manga back after you read it!" she teased the two.

Sleepy little Chakra spoke up from her nest of comfy pillows. "Do any of you Earth-born senshi every miss home?" As a rather surprised silence fell over the group, Chakra blushed. "I'm sorry... I didn't mean..."

"That's okay, Chakra," reassured Kairiku with a smile. "I certainly don't miss it! My life was very difficult there. I love living here amid friends who understand me."

"I do miss being normal at times," sighed Zyta. "You know, a normal teenage girl whose most difficult decision is what college to go to... instead of all the responsibilities that come with being a senshi." The sandy-haired senshi then grinned. "But I wouldn't miss landspeeders or you guys for anything!"

"Well, about the only thing I miss is normal Earth food," said Mika. "I get real tired of nerf-this and nerf-that." She shuddered. "But Ippin is willing to bring back supplies every now and then, so it's not too bad." Reaching for her drink cup, Mika misjudged the distance and knocked it over, spilling the last few drops of her drink onto a surprise and rather annoyed Solai.

"Sith!" Solai shook himself and glared first at Mika, who stammered an apology, and then at Schylar, who was laughing helplessly at her fellow feline. Mika wiped up the few drops that had hit the table. Grumbling, Solai licked the few drops from his tabby coat, then curled up in Mika's lap to show that there were no hard feelings.

"I absolutely love being here!" declared Kirana. "It's like living in a dream come true. Spaceships... aliens... good friends..."

"Well, I miss my family and our gardens," sighed Chouko, cuddling her little kitten, Pinku. "But I love all the new friends I've made here."

"I love being able to travel in space and have adventures," reflected Hisui. "But I do miss my mentor." She sighed. "It would have been nice for him to see how far I've come."

Yukiko echoed her sigh. "I miss Japan. Even though I lived in San Francisco for the last few years, I was able to travel back pretty regularly." She grinned at Ippin. "Thanks to Ippin, I can still keep up with my manga obsession." Her face became thoughtful. "Like Hisui, I think one of the best things about being here, besides the good friends, is being able to travel in space. That was one of my childhood dreams!" Turning to Priire, she continued. "The first time I rode on your ship was the very first time I ever got to fly in space, and it was marvelous!"

Priire shuddered. "I don't see how you Earth-born survived being planet-bound!"

Kairiku smiled, "Well, thanks to you and the other senshi with ships, we Earth-born will never have to be planet-bound again."

"There's one other thing I love about being here..." Yukiko smiled mischievously as she reached out with the Force and levitated the very last chocolate treat off a tray amid amused protests from the other senshi.

As the conversations began to die and more and more yawns were heard around the room, Seiun suggested, "Perhaps we should head off to bed if we want to get an early start on the final party preparations?"

"Good idea," yawned Rene. "See you all in the morning."

The senshi traded goodnights and headed off to their respective rooms. Yukiko made a quick check on her cousin, Aisu, whose room was right next to hers. She smiled to see the chibi peacefully sleeping, nestled amongst a pile of stuffed animals.

After a quick trip to the refresher, Yukiko headed to her bed tucked along one wall. She looked sadly at the tapestry of her father and mother as Prince and Princess of Hoth that hung over it. They looked so happy. Sighing, she turned back towards her small shrine. She had much to think about as all the anniversary preparations had brought to mind things that she had been trying to ignore.

More and more she questioned her destiny. She wasn't even sure who she was anymore. Having been born and raised in Japan, she had considered herself Japanese, with a strong sense of heritage and culture. But coming to this galaxy and discovering that her parents were really the Prince and Princess of Hoth, had made her reevaluate everything. So she had eagerly studied Hoth history, culture and politics, throwing herself into learning her duties as Princess of Hoth for the last three Coruscant years. But lately it had been getting harder and harder to visit Hoth when she knew that its rather immediate future was one of almost total destruction by the Empire. Especially as she'd been having rather troubling dreams lately.

A feeling of hopelessness had begun to take root in her. Why in the name of the thousand little gods had she been called to be Sailor Hoth when it seemed like she was going to be unable to save her own planet?! She knew that her cousin Aisu's very existence as Chibi Hoth and presumed future Princess of Hoth should reassure her that someday Hoth would be reborn. But it also meant that Yuki herself would most likely die during Hoth's destruction, or else why would Chibi Hoth be her cousin and not her future daughter? She shook her head sadly. It wasn't that she wouldn't give her life for her planet. Though no one liked to face death, she would gladly if it would mean saving others. She just wished she'd have the chance to experience true love and the joy of a family of her own.

Sighing once more, she knelt in front of her little shrine, focusing on her father's Royal Ice Sword and her mother's lightsaber. Calming her mind and centering herself, she threw up a firm mental shield and dropped into meditation. She opened herself to the power of the Force and tried to release her worries and fears into its warm embrace. Its energy flowed through her, giving her strength.

Her mediations began to take a strange turn. The Force seemed to be drawing her along flowing lines of the past, where she began to see random images from her life in Japan. Her father's smile as he taught her how to dance... sword training with her mother... winning the junior snowboarding competition one year... even that horrible day when the Kobe earthquake took her parents from her. Before she could even dwell on any of these memories, the scene changed to the planet Hoth. She began to see her planet's past... the building of the current domes, just like in her tapestry... her parents and their wise leadership of the planet. She even saw herself first appearing as Princess Kyri-lyn.

The scene changed again. Still Hoth... but one she didn't recognize. She was in her Princess form, floating above the sparkling frozen vista of her planet, powerless to protect her people against the onslaught of evil... flames and fear as domes were destroyed by large ominous ships... people screaming in terror as a Dark presence strode through the ruins of their once happy lives... death and destruction sweeping over the planet, leaving nothing but crumbling ruins which would soon be covered by the merciless wind-driven snows of an angry Hoth...

She broke out of her mediation abruptly, no longer able to stand to see the images the Force had brought her. Sobbing uncontrollably, she threw herself on her bed, burying her face in her pillows so she wouldn't disturb anyone with her crying. Why, why, why was she forced to see that over and over?

A cold wet nose gently poked its way under her arm. Yuki-friend okay? Have bad dream? came her little vixen's worried thought.

"Oh, Riko!" she sobbed. "I just can't face that future alone!"

Yuki-friend not alone! Riko stay with you always! came the indignant reply.

"Thank you, my friend." Yuki hugged Riko close as her tears continued to fall. "But I couldn't ask that of you. It is my destiny, not yours."

You will not face destiny alone! came the firm unshakable statement from her furred friend.

In her distress, Yukiko failed to sense a presence listening outside her door. Despite the shielding, Xarae had sensed the disturbance in the Force caused by Yukiko's vision and had come to investigate. Reading the residual eddies in the Force, she realized what had upset her friend so and sighed. Xarae knew better than most how hard it could be to accept one's destiny. Knowing that Yukiko had to work this out for herself, Xarae did the only thing she could to help. Reaching out with the Force, she calmed her friend, easing her into a deep dreamless sleep. Tomorrow would be difficult.

The next morning, the Room Behind the Waterfall was bustling with busy senshi preparing for the big party. Things were flowing smoothly under the calm direction of Seiun and her assistant, Kairiku. The younger senshi was happily checking off the final items on her list. This would be a terrific party!

On one wall, Sutaru was using the Force to hang a lovely red and gold Japanese-style banner with the kanji for good fortune, happiness and harmony created by those senshi with artistic talents. "To the right... more... more.... Perfect!!" little Chakra yelled helpfully, bouncing up and down with excitement as she held another banner ready.

"Toss me those pins, please, Xarae?" asked Lys, who was up on a ladder hanging colorful streamers, slowly working her way all around the edge of the room. The dark-haired senshi looked up from where she was quietly sorting through a pile of decorations, and casually waved a hand, using the Force to lift the box of pins up to Lys.

As Priire covered tables with shimmering white cloths, Ippin followed behind, adding a pretty cascade of flowers to the center of each table. When all was in place, the flame-haired senshi would add a final sparkling touch of Corusca dust over the whole room.

Towards one end of the large common room, an area had been cleared for dancing and entertainment. Zyta and Kirana were setting up lighting and sound for the evening's events, careful not to disturb Koumi. The raven-haired senshi, standing in the middle of the cleared area, frowned in concentration as she used her Force-molding skills to create a marvelous hanging decoration of sparkling crystals and shimmering lights. It would cast a magical glow over the festivities.

Wonderful, enticing smells wafted out of the large kitchen where the talented team of cooks worked their own kind of magic. "How's the pizza coming, Mika?" asked Hisui as she artfully arranged a plateful of sushi. The two Earthborns were re-creating classic Earth dishes from the groceries supplied by Ippin.

"Great!" replied Mika as she scattered a generous layer of cheese over the top of her creation. Every now and then she'd spare a small piece for Chouko's little kitten, Pinku, perched happily nearby. "Ippin brought us just enough stuff!" She smiled wryly. "Though I seem to remember more sugar than what's left in the bag!"

"Well, it's important to make sure that it's fresh," giggled Chouko from her post at the entrance to the kitchen. After an incident involving a considerable amount of smoke, Chouko had been assigned the challenging job of guarding the piles of food from senshi eager to sample the treats. She stood watch armed with the traditional cook's weapon, a wooden spoon, making sure that the goodies remained untouched, directing hungry senshi instead to a huge pot of thick, hearty Corellian stew, bubbling cheerfully on the stove next to a pile of fresh bread and rolls.

"That's lovely Ryshcate, Nom!" said Rene shyly as she worked on a batch of namana candies.

"Thank you. They are acceptable," replied Nom as she put the final touches on the Corellian celebration cakes.

Ciel put yet another tray of snack foods on the serving table under the watchful eye of Chouko and sighed happily. "Such a wonderful variety of food! It will be difficult to wait until the party."

Chouko laughed. "Well, cooks always have the privilege of testing their creations." She winked.

Yukiko, dressed in her usual workout clothes, wandered into the common room, heading for the kitchen and the pot of Corellian stew. Noticing the dark circles under her friend's eye, the nearby Annika, arms full of colorful paper lanterns, asked with concern, "Are you all right, Yuki-chan?"

The ice-blue-haired girl just smiled wanly as she scooped out a bowl of stew. "I probably just have jet lag, or spaceship lag from my Hoth trip." She yawned. "Mornings are not my best time. I'm fine."

Annika and Chouko heard the lie behind their friend's words and exchanged concerned looks. "Come on, Yuki-chan," urged Annika. "Help me hang these lanterns after you finish your stew." She smiled encouragingly at her sad friend. "You're so tall, it should be easy!"

Yukiko squirmed uncomfortably. "Well... I really need to practice my sword dance for this evening. And..." Her voice dropped slightly. "I need to talk to Master Yoda about something."

"Okay," replied Annika with sympathy, "If you run into Obi-Wan, tell him not to forget to come early tonight!"

"Sure thing!" Yukiko replied. Half-heartedly eating her stew, she watched as senshi continued making the Room ready for the evening party. Everyone seemed so cheerful that Yukiko felt out of place. Sighing, she placed her bowl and spoon in the dishwashing unit. She tucked her father's Royal Sword into her obi, checked that her mother's lightsaber was attached securely and headed out to find Master Yoda.

On her way out of the Room Behind the Waterfall, Yukiko paused as she passed Xarae. "Thank you," she whispered gratefully to the dark-haired senshi, disappearing before Xarae could reply.

Xarae watched as the door closed behind Yukiko. "Be strong," she said quietly.

Yukiko wandered the halls of the Temple deep in thought, as she followed the Force in search of Master Yoda. Her mind couldn't help replaying her terrible vision from the evening before. Sighing, she realized that, even though she'd known from the beginning that Hoth was abandoned in Empire Strikes Back, it was far more heart-wrenching to see its destruction first hand in her vision.

Eventually the Force led her to a small hallway where Master Yoda and Master Obi-Wan were discussing something. Whatever it was, it looked important. Obi-Wan looked serious, as did Yoda. Sensing her presence, Obi-Wan turned to see Yukiko. He smiled, "Hello, Yuki. How are you to-day?"

"I hope I didn't disturb anything," the ice-blue-haired girl said, bowing in respect to the two Jedi Masters.

He laughed softly. "No. You didn't."

"Annika says to remind you to come early this evening to help with the party."

"Of course," he grinned. "I value my life." He looked at her closely, sensing her troubled feelings through the Force. Exchanging knowing looks with Master Yoda, he continued. "I see you are off to practice. Perhaps I could join you later as my apprentice has been stolen away on urgent party business?"

"I would be honored," she said, blushing, playing nervously with the hilt of her father's sword.

"Well, it's I who'd be honored to lose to you."

"Lose? What makes you think you'll lose?" she said in surprise.

"I've seen you, Yuki. You're very good, you improve more and more every day."

She blushed again. Master Yoda nudged her with his cane. "But looking for Obi-Wan, you were not, eh?" The wise little gnome looked at her with compassion. "My counsel you seek. With me, come. Then practice you may." She nodded, bowing respectfully to Obi-Wan.

Yoda led the way to a meditation garden where they settled down in a secluded spot near a tiny flowing fountain. Climbing on to a nearby rock, the ancient Jedi Master chewed thoughtfully on his gimmer stick. "Vision you had. Disturbs you it does. Tell me, please."

Yukiko shook her head wryly. She should have known that nothing got past Master Yoda. She related her evening's meditations as calmly as she could, though she couldn't stop the tears from falling as she related the last part of her vision. As her words began to falter, a small clawed hand rested gently on hers, generating a warm flow of the Force, lending her strength to finish. Finally she fell silent, resting for a moment in the calm yet powerful Force signature of Master Yoda. At last she was able to speak again. "I just don't understand why I was called to be Sailor Hoth when my planet is doomed! It's so hopeless!!"

"Always in motion the future is," Yoda reminded her. "Come fully to pass your vision may not."

"With all due respect, Master Yoda," she snorted, "I happen to know for certain that in about twenty or so years, Hoth will be a barren planet, suitable only for foolhardy miners and desperate rebels."

Master Yoda closed his eyes and opened himself to the Force. No living being saw further or more possible futures than the little green troll. After a moment, his ears drooped and he sighed wearily. "Correct you are - doomed, Hoth is."

Hearing her worst fears confirmed by the by the most powerful living Jedi, Yukiko's heart broke. She had so hoped that the answer might be different, despite her certain knowledge of the future. But before she could break down into tears once more, she again felt the Master's hand on her arm. "Doomed your planet may be," he said gently, "nevertheless, save your people you might."

She sniffed back her tears. "I don't understand! Save my people?"

Yoda mock grumbled, "Young beings the same they are, listen they do not!" He tapped his stick on the ground for added emphasis. "Your planet, doomed it is. However, save your people, you might. By your own knowing, at least six to ten years before the coming Darkness you have. Use them!"

"Use them..." repeated Yukiko thoughtfully, her heart grabbing desperately to the tiny shred of hope the Jedi Master offered. "I can't exactly order massive evacuations based only on a vision..."

Yoda cackled, "Sneaky you must be. Good with credits you are. Find a way, you will!"

The small seed of hope bloomed in Yukiko's soul as she considered the Master's words. She was good with financial matters. Besides the martial arts, it was one of the few things she felt competent at. Her mind began racing thinking of how she could accomplish such a task. It would be a massive undertaking requiring a large chunk of the royal family's fortune, many years of hard work, and a considerable amount of "creative" financing. But she might just be able to give her people a chance to survive the coming Darkness. Impulsively, she enveloped Master Yoda in a hug. "Thank you, Master! You have given me back hope!"

The Jedi Master sputtered a bit. "Down with me put! Stuffed animal I am not!"

She quickly released him, stammering an apology, worried that she might have offended him until she saw the twinkle in his eyes. She smiled sadly. "Even if I must perish, at least I might be able hold back the Dark long enough to save my people."

Yoda harrumphed. "Know you what breakfast have I fifteen years from now?"

Yukiko looked at him in astonishment. "Of course not! Lucas didn't..." She stuttered. "Um... we don't know all the details of what happens, but..."

A gentle thwack on her shins from Yoda's stick interrupted her. "Much of the best of life in the details exists. Perish saving your people you might, or might not. Live in this moment one must. Love you may find, if open to it you remain."

"L-l-love?" she stammered. "Who said anything about love?"

Snickering with amusement, Yoda declared, "Old I may be, dead I am not!" He peered up at her with wise eyes. "The purple-haired one from the future, think on him you do!"

Yukiko blushed furiously as the little green troll hopped down from his rock. He cackled once more as he turned to go. "Little Aisu, secrets she has that she knows not. To visit me, bring her one-day. May the Force be with you." With that, the Jedi Master disappeared into the foliage of the mediation garden, leaving Yukiko staring after him with astonishment and with much to think about. "Sithspit!!" she swore suddenly, breaking out of her reverie. "I'm supposed to meet Obi-Wan in the main practice room!!" She hurried as fast as was polite through the halls of the Temple, raising only a few eyebrows along the way.

Back in the Room Behind The Waterfall, the party preparations were near completion. Up on a ladder, hanging the last of the colorful paper lanterns, Annika mused, "I wonder what's wrong with Yuki today? She really seemed down." The odangoed senshi looked over at Koumi's marvelous sparkling creation of crystal and light, casting a magical glow over the now-transformed room. "Wow! That looks wonderful, Koumi!"

Thank you, came the quiet reply from the dark-haired senshi. I was certain that I felt a disturbance in the Force centered around Yukiko last night, but it disappeared rather quickly.

"Well, she hardly ate any breakfast today," sighed Annika as she climbed down from the ladder.

Ippin, who had just cast one last shimmering handful of Corusca dust over the room, stared at her in surprise. "But Yuki usually eats enough for three senshi!"

Kirana and Zyta wandered over, having finished setting up for the evening's entertainment. "What's up, gals?" asked a curious Kirana as she adjusted the bow holding back her pearlescent hair.

"We were just wondering what's bothering Yuki today," Ippin replied, dusting the last remnants of Corusca dust off her hands. "She hardly ate and seems very depressed. Even her fox, Riko, isn't her usual bouncy self."

"Hmm, must be something major then," said Zyta, rubbing her chin thoughtfully. "Because Yuki's usually so calm and serene."

Overhearing the discussion, Xarae just sighed, uncertain as to how much to share. But, knowing that the others were concerned for their friend, she spoke up. "Yuki had a rather disturbing and intense Force vision last night concerning her planet's destiny." She paused before adding softly, "I don't think this was the first one she's had."

"Her planet's destiny?" asked Annika uncertainly. "I know that Yuki mentioned once that she felt something bad is going to happen to Hoth, but what could happen to an entire planet?"

The earthborn Kirana and Zyta just exchanged sad knowing looks, remembering the deserted, hostile planet Hoth from Empire Strikes Back. "Damn, sometimes it's hell knowing the future!" murmured Zyta under her breath.

"Hah! Destiny!" growled Priire who'd come over to see what her twin was up to. Leaning on Ippin's shoulder she continued, "No offense, Xarae, but I hate it!! I never chose to become the Guardian of the Stars but noooo, destiny had other ideas." She snorted. "I'd rather make my own destiny, thank you!"

"Poor Yuki!" sniffed Annika. "It must be a difficult burden to know that something bad is going to happen to your people."

Ippin handed Annika a tissue. "It must be especially difficult for the Senshi of Innocence to foresee the deaths of so many." The flame-haired senshi fingered the gold bracelet that she always wore, sadly remembering the discussions about mercenaries and the murder of innocents she and Yuki had when they first met.

Annika blew her nose. "Well, she did say she was going to talk to Master Yoda. Perhaps he'll be able to help her sort things out."

Xarae brushed back her long dark hair with one elegant hand. "A Sailor Senshi is often called to called to fulfill a difficult destiny. All we can offer is our support and understanding."

The sudden appearance of a flour-covered Pinku and a couple of giggling chibis dashing from the kitchen area with Ciel and Mika in hot pursuit interrupted their conversation and lightened the mood. Kirana spoke up. "Well, now that the room is prepared, I guess we should get ourselves ready for tonight!"

Amid a chorus of agreement, the senshi wandered off to put on their party clothes.

Yukiko entered the main practice hall. The huge room was quite busy, though the mood was rather more relaxed than usual as it was Rest Day. Most of the Padawans and older Initiates loved spending what little free time they had sparring or working on lightsaber forms. Hisui, Nom, Sutaru and some of the other senshi could often be found here as well, but the party preparations took priority today. However, Ben was there, off in one corner, practicing his martial arts demo for the party.

Yukiko paused a moment, gazing wistfully at the purple-haired young man as he leaped gracefully through a complex series of movements, muscles rippling under the tank top he wore. She had many a crush on cute guys over the last three years in this galaxy, but there was something very, very special about Ben. She felt almost like she'd known him forever. Not only was he a major hunk with gorgeous turquoise eyes, he was also kind, smart, and strong in the Force. She sighed sadly, noticing the admiring looks he was getting from many of the nearby Padawans. As she continued towards an open mat, she thought glumly that even if he and Magena weren't a couple, he'd still probably never be interested in her with so many good-looking Padawans hanging about. Not to mention the many senshi who thought he was cute! She sighed again and supposed it was for the best. After all, there was an excellent chance that she wouldn't survive her planet's certain doom even if she was able to save her people. Not exactly the best base for a relationship with anyone!

Luckily, her rather depressing thoughts were interrupted by one of her friends among the senior Padawans who waved in welcome as she walked by. "Hey, Yuki!" he yelled with a grin, pausing a moment in his sparring. "When are you going to let me get even for that last bout?"

Yuki just smiled wanly and called back, "It'll have to be later, Johan! I need to practice my forms."

The blond Padawan nodded in understanding. "Next time then!" he replied cheerfully and turned back to his current sparring partner.

Reaching an open practice mat, Yuki laid down her weapons and stretched carefully. It was time to forget about what she could never have and concentrate on the Moment as she had been taught. At least Yoda had given her back hope for her people. She released all her fears, anxieties and longings into the Force and cleared her mind. It had been a long time since she had run through the complex sword dance. It was the highest form her Japanese sensei in San Francisco had taught her before she came to the Star Wars galaxy. The ancient form would be perfect to honor her birth country of Japan.

She ran through a couple of the trickier movements to reassure herself that she still remembered them, then moved to the center of the mat. Closing her eyes and laying her hand on the hilt of her father's sword, she concentrated on shutting away her Force talents. She had spent the first sixteen years of her life with her Force-sensitivity locked away by her Jedi mother... for her own protection, of course. Master Yoda had showed her how that had been accomplished, so every once in a while in private, she'd practice without the Force to keep her normal human skills up. It seemed to be appropriate for the ancient Japanese form and would be a fun surprise to show those senshi who were also Force-sensitive. Bowing formally in respect to the memory of her sensei and her parents, she drew her father's sword and began.

As she gracefully ended the elegant form, she noticed that she had collected an audience, drawn, no doubt, by the ripples in the Force caused by the blocking of her aura as well as the unusual sight of someone using a real metal blade in practice. She blushed and bowed in response the crowd's applause. Then the press of people parted to allow a rather stern-looking Councilor Windu through. "What is the meaning of this, young Yukiko?" he demanded gruffly though his dark eyes seemed to twinkle a bit. "You frightened some of the Initiates with your little stunt." The crowd politely started to dissipate, but most remained close enough to use their Jedi senses to listen.

Bowing in respect to the Councilor, Yukiko replied softly, "I am sorry, Master Windu, I did not mean to upset anyone. Privately I often work out without the Force to remember what a non-Jedi warrior is capable of."

The tall Jedi just snorted, then, unexpectedly, laughed which changed his whole demeanor from foreboding to warm. "You actually have a point. Too often Jedi feel that they are invincible against the non-Force sensitive. Your excellent performance was clear proof to the contrary." As he turned to leave, he said casually, "Perhaps you would like to spar with me sometime. I'm sure I could teach you a few new tricks."

"I... I... I'd be honored, Master!" Yuki stammered as she bowed again. Master Windu waved a hand in acknowledgement then strode off through the scattered Padawans and Masters who had been rather unsuccessfully trying to look busy.

"Well done, Yuki!" came a familiar voice from behind her. Yukiko turned to see a smiling Obi-Wan watching from the side of the mat. "You just managed to impress the greatest warrior among the Jedi, after my beloved Master, of course. Now, how about that practice you promised?" Chuckling, the other watchers finally returned in earnest to their own forms practice and sparring. The noise level in the hall returned to its normal busy hum.

Concentrating once more, Yukiko unblocked her Force abilities, sighing in relief as she once again felt the warm, reassuring power of the Force surround her. Yukiko and Obi-Wan moved to opposite sides of the mat, tuned their lightsabers to training level, and bowed to each other in respect. Yuki took the offensive, gracefully attacking, her blue lightsaber a blur. Obi-Wan parried immediately, responding with an attack that she in turn managed to block. Attack, parry, riposte, and lunge... The last of Yuki's tension from her vision dissipated in the warm glow of the Force weaving between the two combatants as they leapt and dodged in the intricate dance of the duel. Now and then, Obi-Wan would stop and point out a possible maneuver or offer a minor correction, but that only added to the rising joy and determination Yuki felt as she pushed herself faster and farther. Sparring against such a talented Master as Obi-Wan inspired her to reach new levels of accomplishment. Even her fears about her people's future temporarily faded as the siren song of the Force hummed and sang through her body giving her power, grace and speed.

So caught up was she in the duel and the flow of the Force that she failed to notice that she had her own little group of admirers watching her spar against the Master. A rather amazed purple-haired young man joined them. Ben had never really had the chance to see Yukiko fight with a lightsaber and was quite impressed. Once again he felt that elusive sense of familiarity he'd always seemed to feel around her. Shaking his head in confusion, he quietly left the hall.

"Whew! I think I'd better stop while I still have energy for the party!" Yuki panted as she acknowledged defeat at the end of their third bout. "But winning one out of three against a Master isn't too bad," she smiled. Though tired from the rigorous workout, she felt more at peace than she had in days.

"I think you let me win the third fight," Obi-Wan replied with a grin, happy to see that his friend, though still somewhat sad, had regained her inner balance and usual calm. As they breathed deeply, cooling down and letting their heart rates settle back to normal, the Jedi Master asked carefully, "You were able to talk with Master Yoda?"

Yukiko almost missed his question after hearing the first comment. A Jedi Master, accusing her of letting him win! She knew she was good, but she didn't realize she was that good. Then her mind registered his question and she sighed. A tinge of sadness crept back into her voice as she replied wryly, "Actually, Master Yoda confirmed my worst fears about my planet's future." She picked up her weapons and headed off the mat, followed closely by a concerned Obi-Wan. She sighed again, then continued. "Of course, he did inform me that there was still a chance to save my people. So there is still hope."

"It seems that many of you Sailor Jedi have difficult destinies to face," said Obi-Wan thoughtfully as they walked across the hall. He chuckled slightly. "It make being Master of the Chosen One seem simple by comparison."

"I wouldn't say that," replied Yukiko softly. She knew only too well what a difficult destiny faced Obi-Wan. It had always impressed her how the older version of Obi-Wan was able to survive seeing such horrible events as the rise of the Empire and the end of the Jedi, and serve his lonely exile in the deserts of Tatooine, faithfully protecting the galaxy's last hope. Yukiko smiled as she realized that Annika's existence, at least, assured that perhaps Obi-Wan's exile wouldn't be quite as lonely as most Star Wars fans had assumed. No wonder the older Obi-Wan always seemed to have a twinkle in his blue-grey eyes!

As the two reached the hallway outside the practice hall and prepared to go their separate ways, Yukiko again bowed formally to Obi-Wan. "Thank you for the wonderful practice, Master Obi-Wan."

Obi-Wan smiled as he returned the bow. "It was my pleasure, Yukiko. You are a worthy opponent." He chuckled. "Please let Annika know that I'll be over just as soon as I change."

Yukiko nodded and headed off to the Rooms Behind the Waterfall. Though the future would be difficult, she did have the assurances from the strongest and wisest of the Jedi that she would have a chance to save her people. And the sparring had reconnected her with the power and support of the Force. At last she felt ready to celebrate with her friends.

Annika twirled happily in front of the full-length mirror in her pink bedroom, her shimmering white dress swirling softly around her ankles. Obi-Wan will love this! she thought dreamily, stopping her pirouetting long enough to fasten a double strand of Aquarian pearls around her delicate throat. Annika truly loved getting dressed up!

"I don't know why I have to wear this!!" came a disgruntled growl from the general vicinity of the hallway. Annika peered around her open door to see a rather annoyed Priire trying to adjust her sleeveless golden dress. The Dark Senshi complained loudly. "Coru, there's NO place for my blasters!"

"Priire, this is a party," her flame-haired twin replied with an exasperated sigh as she smoothed down her own dress of deepest ruby red. "Blasters are not required! Besides, Kousotsu will love it!"

"Well... all right!" Priire consented with a final grumble. She surreptitiously tucked a tiny hand blaster into a skinny thigh holster she'd had the foresight to put on under her slinky dress. Ippin caught the motion and just rolled her eyes. The watching Annika just giggled as she joined her two friends in the hallway.

The three flowed smoothly into the tide of senshi headed to the main room for the celebration. Most of them had taken the opportunity to get dressed up. Even quiet Koumi wore a cute red sleeveless dress with a matching sparkly red band in her hair. Amid all the finery, Yuki's tall form, dressed in plain tan workout clothes, stood out like a Wookie at a Jawa convention.

A small white blur dashed past the three senshi as Yuki's fox smoothly wove through the crowd. They saw Riko jump happily into Yuki's arms, almost knocking the tall senshi over. Yuki whispered something to the little vixen covering her face with foxy kisses.

Ippin reached out and hauled Yuki out of the flood of senshi towards a calm niche in the hallway. She was quite pleased to sense nothing more than Yuki's usual calm through the Force, though it was tinged with deep sadness. "Yuki-chan, are you okay?" she asked softly. "Xarae told us you had a terrible Force vision last night."

"You don't have to tell us if you don't want to," interrupted Annika anxiously as she reached out to pet a wiggling Riko. "But we were worried."

"I'm fine now," Yuki replied reassuringly, touched by her friends' concern. "I had a long talk with Master Yoda about what my vision meant and what I can do to make a difference in my planet's future."

"If there's any way we can help, just let us know," Priire said firmly as Ippin and Annika nodded in agreement.

"Thank you, my friends," Yuki replied warmly. She managed a slight smile. "I also was able to win one bout against Obi-Wan during our sparring so I'm feeling quite a bit better than this morning."

"Good for you! Gotta keep those Jedi humble," said Priire with a wicked chuckle.

Yuki looked down at her sweaty workout clothes. "Well, I'm not exactly dressed for a party, so let me go change," she sighed in some embarrassment.

"Okay, see you in a bit!" replied Priire as she dragged her not-unwilling twin off towards the food tables where Riku and Kousotsu were already busy "sampling" some of the goodies. Annika waved happily to her beloved Obi-Wan as he was gracefully making his way towards her through the crowd of senshi.

Yuki chuckled as she headed off to her room. It was good to have such caring friends. Riko wiggled again in Yuki's arms, turning her big bright blue eyes up to her friend's ice blue ones. Yuki-friend really okay? came the concerned thought from the little fox.

Yuki just smiled sadly, stroking her friend's soft fur as she approached their room. "Thank you, my friend. I'll be fine." She tapped Riko's nose gently. "Why don't you go off and see what trouble you can get into?"

Riko searched Yuki's face for any sign of uncertainly then hopped down from her arms. Riko will go see what interesting things she can find! came the laughing thought from the sly little vixen. Yuki just shook her head and reminded herself to check the fox's basket-bed later for "borrowed" objects.

After a quick shower, a towel-wrapped Yuki stood in front of her closet. It was mostly full of casual, comfortable blue or neutral-hued clothes that allowed for freedom of movement. But from the depths there came the shine of embroidered silk. Since this was a day to remember her past on Earth, she pulled out kimono and hakama, made to her specifications by some of Coruscant's finest tailors. This wasn't her fancy festival kimono, but a formal warrior's one made of a light but sturdy blue silk-like material sprinkled with her family mon (Japanese family crest) - a stylized plum blossom. She put on her hakama of a darker blue. Putting her hair up into a simple ponytail instead of her usual braided bun, she secured it snugly with a dark blue bow.

Heading over to the rack that held her collection of edged weapons, Yuki picked up the Royal Ice Sword of Hoth. It had returned to its true shape while she showered, its deep blue gems nestled in the intricate silver fittings of the hilt that were sparkling in the light. Yuki concentrated a moment, calling upon that part of her that was Princess of Hoth. The Royal Sword began to shimmer as it morphed back into Yuki's usual Japanese katana. Most of her friends just thought that her katana was just another sword from her rather extensive collection. But then, few knew of the Ice Sword's more esoteric abilities outside the royal family. Turning to the altar of her small Shinto shrine, she used the Force to light a small bit of incense in honor of her parents and of the sensei that taught her the sword dance she'd be performing that evening. Bowing in respect, she left to join the fun.

From the overly warm depths of the kitchen, Nom and Hisui passed trays of delicious smelling wonders to Mika, Ciel, and Rene who carried them over to the buffet tables.

"Do you think we made enough food?" laughed Mika as she stumbled and nearly dropped her tray full of namana treats.

Rene, catching the edge of the tray just in time to prevent disaster, just smiled shyly. "I think we have enough to feed the entire Temple!"

"Not if the hungry Padawans have anything to say about it," snickered Ciel.

A laughing little mob of chibis, intent on attacking the dessert tables, swirled past the busy cooks. Their ringleader was Kairiku, who finally felt able to relax from her organizing duties now that the party was in full swing. The odangoed chibi was stopped in her tracks by the appearance of a suddenly shy Anakin.

"Um. Hi! Uh... you look great!" he stammered as he admired Kairiku's flowing dress of soft turquoise.

"Thank you!" Kairiku blushed, then noticed that Anakin seemed to be hiding something behind his back. "What are you hiding? Not another new practical joke for Master Windu, I hope!"

"Umm... it's for you!" He brought out a lovely single rose he'd managed to charm from Annika.

Kairiku melted. "Thank you sooo much!!" she whispered as she impulsively hugged Anakin tightly. Releasing him, she broke off the long stem and stuck the lovely bloom into one odango. "How's it look?"

"Wonderful!" Anakin said gallantly, then blushed as his stomach grumbled loudly. Laughing, Kairiku just shook her head, then dragged Anakin off towards the heavily laden food tables.

Sutaru searched diligently through the mass of visiting Jedi for a glimpse of a certain red-haired, freckle-faced friend. Pouting at her lack of success, she was about to ask Master Yoda for help when she was engulfed in a hug from behind. "Raven!" she squealed as she turned to discover the identity of her hugger.

"Gotcha!" he grinned at her, pleased to be able to surprise her for once. "I'm hungry. How about some food?"

The Corellian senshi from the future just shook her head. In a galaxy of diversity, the insatiable hunger of teenage boys remained constant. Chuckling, Sutaru hauled Raven off to the buffet tables where they both dived into the fantastic food.

Annika was nearby, happily filling Obi-Wan's patient arms with plate after plate of goodies. "Oooooo, Nom made Ryshcate!" she squealed happily, loading yet another plate high. Noticing Chikako appear in the main doorway into the Room Behind the Waterfall, Annika squealed again and headed off to hug her friend, leaving a chuckling Obi-Wan holding the food. "Chikako! I'm soo glad you're back from Myrkr! You're just in time for the party!"

Chikako, the breath knocked out of her by the force of Annika's hug, just gasped. "I rushed back so I wouldn't miss it! But I'd better change..."

"Oh, don't worry about that! Your dress is perfect! Especially with those lovely flower earrings!" Annika happily dragged Chikako into the partying.

More guests began to arrive, both Jedi and non-Jedi friends of the senshi. Priire checked each visitor carefully. She was in charge of security, making sure that only those invited were allowed into the inner sanctum of the Sailor Senshi. So when a tall stranger, dressed in dark military flight pants, a gray shirt and a dark vest, showed up, all Priire's instincts kicked in. Slipping her tiny blaster from who-knows-where, Priire growled, "Who are you and why I shouldn't blast you?!"

The silver- and black-haired man looked down at the blaster pointed at his nether regions, his gray eyes gleaming with amusement. "Ah, you must be Priire! Nom has told me quite a bit about you." He smiled roguishly and bowed as much as Priire's blaster would allow. "I'm Maximus, an old friend of Nom's. It's a pleasure to meet you."

"A friend of Nom's, eh? Well, let's just go see." Priire marched the handsome man in the direction of the kitchen. Only Ippin really noticed them pass, as the senshi were used to Priire waving a blaster around strange men. The flame-haired senshi just shook her head in exasperated tolerance, then turned back to her argument with Riku.

The usually stoic Nom actually smiled upon seeing the devilish smirk of her old friend. Turning to Priire, she said dryly, "You may now remove your weapon of destruction from his back. Maximus will bring no harm to those here." Turning to her guest, Nom commanded, "And you will put away your own blaster and assist me in carrying trays of comestibles to the buffet tables while we converse." Chuckling, the tall man slipped his own tiny blaster back into his pants, grabbed a tray and followed his friend out of the kitchen area.

Priire just grinned, holstered her blaster, and headed back to her self-imposed station at a table near the main door. No doubt Nom was telling the truth, but she'd keep an eye on the new guy anyway. She could sense that he could be a dangerous opponent. He reminds me of myself, she mused wryly, settling down next to Kousotsu.

Her love was already making good headway into the plates of food that he'd thoughtfully brought over to Priire's watch post. "So... who was that strange guy?" he asked between bites of roast bantha.

"Just an old friend of Nom's," Priire shrugged. "Nothing to worry about... I think. Hey, save me some of that... what's it called... oh yeah... pizza!"

Everyone made quick headway through the marvelous assortment of delights the cooks had created. Even those non-humanoid guests with special dietary needs, such as the Wookie Jedi Master Chevarra, had plenty of treats to enjoy. Master Yoda was touched to see that the senshi had even made him a special batch of his favorite swamp root mush. A few dinner rolls were used as projectiles by Lys and Chouko, but... all in all... aside from the incident involving Pinku, Riko, and a plate of cheesecake... everyone was on their best behavior.

As the gathered senshi and guests finished off the last of the desserts, the room lights began to dim. Eager senshi quieted and turned their attention to the sparkling stage area, marvelously lit by Koumi's dazzling Force sculpture.

Yuki, sneaking through the crowd while heading for the stage, stopped by Ippin and Riku's table. Laying a small holocamera down she whispered, "Coru-chan, would you please get some holos of the acts for me? I've gotten some good ones of the party so far, including one of Priire in her dress, but now I have to wait for my turn to perform."

The flame-haired senshi picked up the holocamera eagerly. "Oooo, I'd be glad to take some holos for you!" She grinned wickedly. "As long as I can get copies of the dress picture!"

Chuckling, Yuki replied, "Blackmailing your own sister, eh? No problem. Arigatou!" The blue-haired senshi then headed off to wait with the other performers beside the stage for her turn on stage.

Kyoko, elegant in a lovely deep burgundy dress with gold brocade trim and holding a crystal glass full of a bubbly purple drink, stepped into the spotlight. "Honored guests, friends and fellow senshi..." she began with a smile. "Welcome one and all to this celebration! It is hard to believe that one full year has passed on Earth since the first senshi came to this galaxy. Now, just three Coruscant years later, we have grown into a large group of dedicated warriors of the Light, bound by friendship and a common destiny." Her face sobered. "But, before we begin tonight's entertainment, let us remember those who cannot be with us tonight, whether because of their duty to their sovereign planets or because they have made the ultimate sacrifice and are now one with the Force." Raising her glass she said simply, "To our absent friends."

"To our absent friends," came the soft echoes throughout the room.

After a moment of silence, Kyoko smiled once more and indicated two waiting senshi. "Now, I'd like to turn the rest of the evening's festivities over to our two hostesses, Kirana and Zyta!"

Kirana, her shimmering pink dress swirling gracefully as she took center stage, began. "Tonight is a night for memories and merriment! We are fortunate to have some talented senshi volunteer to share some of their planet's art and music with us tonight before we get down to the serious dancing."

"Actually, we twisted a few arms," interjected Zyta wryly, sparkling in her dress of glittering gold.

"Hush!" scolded Kirana with an indulgent smile. "First is Magena Ryo performing an original dance."

Soft, ethereal music began to play as Magena floated elegantly onto the stage. The silver-haired senshi seemed to soar effortlessly on the wings of the song. Spinning, soaring, leaping, defying gravity... she didn't simply dance to the music... she became the music. As the final chord sounded, Magena flowed into a last flawless pose en pointe. There was a magical moment of total silence before the awestruck crowd exploded with applause. Magena bowed gracefully in response then left the stage only to be enveloped in a congratulatory hug by Ben, next in line to perform. Yuki just sighed enviously and wished that she could move so gracefully. And you wish you were the one being hugged by Ben, whispered a nagging inner voice. Sternly telling her inner voice to shut up, Yuki turned her attention back to the stage. She certainly didn't want to miss the next act!

Kirana allowed the enthusiastic ovation to die down before she continued. "Next is a martial arts demonstration from our own Jedi from the future, the Coruscant Knight, Sukai Kami!"

The young Knight strode confidently on to the stage. To the great appreciation of many, he had removed his party clothes and was now clad in just a tight-fitting black tank top and snug exercise shorts. Jaws dropped as he demonstrated exactly why he was a full-fledged Jedi Knight at such a young age. His powerfully built body, muscles rippling smoothly, moved with speed, power and unbelievable grace. The Jedi Masters present were very impressed by Kami's exquisite level of control and oneness with the Force. The unattached senshi, hormones surging happily, were just plain... impressed. By the time Ben brought the demonstration to a graceful conclusion, Magena was not the only one with hearts in her eyes!

Yuki, watching from the sidelines, was completely stunned. Once more she got that feeling of familiarity she'd often felt around Ben... the feeling like she'd known him forever. If only, she thought longingly, then shook her head sadly. She reminded herself again that even if he wasn't already attached, she certainly had no future to offer anyone. Sighing inwardly, she struggled to put all thoughts of those deep turquoise eyes out of her mind by mentally reviewing the more difficult parts of the sword dance she'd be doing later.

Zyta sighed dreamily as Ben left the stage then quickly pulled herself together to announce, "Now that we've watched the future son, here's his some-day-to-be mother, Megami Hisui, singing an old Earth ballad."

Koumi's crystalline light focused on the red-haired woman waiting patiently in the middle of the stage. Hisui's voice was warm velvet as she sang a song of a love that survived heartache. A love that was ageless and eternal, making two hearts one even while separated by time and space. Ben's eyes shone with emotion as he realized that she was singing about the love between herself and his father. How he wished he could spare her the very difficult future she would face before finding happiness with Luke! But each senshi had her own particular destiny to fulfill and his mother was no exception. Sighing sadly, he turned his attention back to the stage. The power of Hisui's singing bespelled the rapt watchers, causing some eyes to glisten with unshed tears and those with significant others to hold them close. As she left the stage to thunderous applause, few noticed the single tear that had managed to slip out of her jade green eyes.

Kirana took the stage once more. "That was beautiful," she sniffled, quickly hiding a tissue. "Our next senshi, Oola, has chosen to honor us with a dance from her native planet."

The crimson-skinned senshi smoothly glided on to the stage as a very rhythmic percussive beat began playing. A complex assortment of native musical instruments added a striking melody. Oola undulated across the stage, accomplishing movements that would be impossible for a human as she danced with all her heart. Now she was dancing for her friends and her love, not at the command of others! Now she could truly dance for herself! Her happiness shone from every part of her as she threw herself into the freedom of this dance. Her love, Fumetsu, was the first to jump to his feet in appreciation as she brought her energetic dance to a graceful conclusion. Oola happily threw herself into her love's arms as the audience applauded enthusiastically.

"Wonderful!" Zyta applauded as she prepared to introduce the next act. "Next, here's Chouko and Mika singing one of the latest songs to take Coruscant by storm!"

The two giggling senshi climbed the few stairs up to the stage. Naturally, Chouko had to catch Mika when the blond senshi tripped on the top step, but they eventually made it without further incident. Finding the waiting spotlight they struck dramatic poses and began to sing. To the surprise of many, they both had wonderful voices that blended beautifully! And their enthusiasm soon had many foot a-tapping and hands clapping along to the catchy lyrics. As the two girls ended their song, they struck one last pose as the audience showed its appreciation. Giggling happily, they took a final bow then dashed off the stage.

"Great job, ladies!" grinned Kirana. "Our next-to-last performance is Yukiko with a traditional Japanese sword dance."

Yukiko stepped into the spotlight then knelt in a swirl of blue silk. Her calm, quiet voice carried easily to the farthest edge of the crowd. "For the first sixteen years of my life, I did not know the power of the Force. My Jedi mother, hiding her own powers while on Earth, and concerned for my safety, had mentally blocked my abilities. In honor of her and the Earth senshi who taught me this particular sword form, I will not use the Force tonight." Closing her eyes and concentrating, Yuki once again blocked her Force-sensitivity. The Force-sensitive senshi watched in amazement as Yuki's normally strong Force-signature dimmed dramatically until it was no stronger than an average human. Hands folded politely on her knees, she called out, "Okaa-san, onegai shimasu." Yuki then bowed formally, touching her forehead to the stage. She repeated the ritual with "Miyagi-sensei, onegai shimasu," followed by another bow.

With unexpected speed, Yuki was suddenly on her feet, sword drawn, starting the movements in the ancient form. In a timeless pattern of attack and defense, Yuki leapt forward and back, her sword weaving a web of steel in the air. By turns gracefully spinning, then explosively attacking, she flew through the elegant if deadly dance as if gravity was inconsequential. Focusing her ki, releasing all conscious thought, Yuki became one with her sword and the dance. There were no future fears or past regrets... there was only Now. So complete was her concentration that the audience could almost see the imaginary foes that she was fighting.

"Damn, she moves fast!" exclaimed Priire. "Are you sure she's not using the Force?"

"Absolutely!" responded the amazed Kousotsu. "It's all her own skill and what must have been extensive training! " He looked over at the table where the Councilors Windu and Yoda were sitting and chuckled. "Even Master Windu looks impressed!" Looking over, Priire could see a very thoughtful look on the normally stern Jedi Master's face.

With a final, graceful if lethal slash, Yuki finally came to rest standing in the exact place she had started the ancient form. Flicking her sword downward to shake off the imaginary blood, Yuki sheathed her sword in one smooth motion and bowed. The audience exploded with applause, causing the ice senshi to blush as she bowed once more. As she left the stage, she unblocked her Jedi abilites, causing quite a surge in the Force as her powerful Force-signature returned.

"That was amazing, Yuki-chan!" marveled Zyta, watching from beside the stage. After the applause died down, Zyta stepped into the spotlight once again. "Our last performer is our own Kirana singing a traditional Omwati ballad."

Kirana stepped forward, smiled over at her beloved Kendren and began to sing. Though the words were in a language that few understood, the feeling behind the words was unmistakable. The song spoke of friendship and caring... a friendship that could survive tragedy and heartbreak only to become stronger... a caring for each other through the darkest of times. Many eyes were again shining with unshed tears as the lovely ballad drew to a close with a joyous affirmation of the Light shared between friends... to the end of time. The resulting cheers and applause made even the usually confident Kirana blush as she gracefully bowed in appreciation.

Zyta climbed back on stage as Kirana took a last bow. "Marvellous!" Turning her attention to the crowd, she said, "I'd like all the performers to stand up so we can once again show our appreciation for their willingness to share their talents with us!" Everyone applauded once more as all the performers stood to receive their well-earned ovation.

Then expectant eyes turned back to the stage where Zyta grinned, twirled her microphone and said, "Now it's time to DANCE!!" Amid enthusiastic cheers, she nodded to Kirana who pushed a button, causing the stage area to lower down to the regular floor level. The newly-revealed dance floor shimmered with a rainbow of lights from Koumi's Force sculpture. Zyta went behind the music control panel and cranked up the volume. A blast of pure fun blared from the speakers and the younger senshi, dragging equally eager Padawans, poured from the tables in a happy, bouncing flood.

Those not so energetically inclined headed back to the still overflowing tables of food. After a few more songs, the elder Masters and those Councilors in attendence, quietly retired, which further relaxed the general atmosphere of the party. The general mood ranged from silly to sentimental to sad as each senshi responded in their own unique way to the celebration. Some played silly pranks, some devoured piles of sweets, and some just quietly reflected on the past years.

"Next is a couples only slow dance!" Zyta grinned smugly from behind the music control panel. "So grab yourself a partner."

As the strains of a lovely romantic ballad filled the room, couple after giggling couple took to the floor. Annika dragged Obi-Wan to the very center of the dance floor, wrapped his arms around herself and smiled happily as she saw Kousoutsu sweet-talk Priire into joining them. The younger teens followed their example. Sutaru and Kariku managing to convince their Padawan boyfriends that it wasn't against the Jedi code to have just one slow dance. Kendren spun Kirana, causing her pearlescent hair to cascade around her in a shimmering cloud. Silent, reserved Koumi surprised everyone by allowing Kirran to sweep her gracefully through the sparkling dance floor. The haunting melody of the sentimental song even managed to work magic on Ippin and Riku, replacing their normal bickering with the quiet peaceful joy of simply being together.

The sight of all the lovebirds depressed Yuki. Sighing, she headed for the quieter environs of the dessert table where Chikako was eagerly trying out Nom's Ryschate. The senshi of joy looked with concern at her friend. "Are you okay? You seem pretty down for a party..." she trailed off uncertainly.

Yuki hugged Chikako gratefully. "Thanks, but I'll be fine. This is a party, so pass some of that marvellous dessert, please!"

Chikako smiled and handed over the nearly empty plate. "You're lucky! This is the last of it!"

"You are incorrect." A calm voice sounded behind them. They turned to see Nom bearing a platter piled high with more of the Corellian celebration cakes. "This is the last tray. You will consume it." Nom carefully placed the tray down then turned her attention to Yuki. The ice senshi surpressed the very natural urge to squirm under Nom's piercing gaze. The Dathomirian senshi stared for a moment, then stated quietly, "Your performance of the ancient sword dance was quite acceptable. A fitting tribute to your teachers."

Yuki felt her jaw drop at the totally unexpected and, for Nom, lavish praise. Bowing in profound respect to the Eternal warrior, she replied softly, "Your words bring honor to those who taught me." Nom nodded once, then returned to the kitchen.

Chikako laughed at the stunned statement on Yuki's face. "Don't let it go to your head," she teased. "Now, let's find a spot where we can eat in relative peace."

Yuki smiled and led the way to a small table to one side where Seiun and Xarae were quietly watching the antics of the younger senshi who had retaken the dance floor after the couples had. Xarae had a faraway look on her lovely face which Yuki knew meant that the raven-haired senshi was missing her beloved. "May we join you?" asked Yuki, holding out the plate she held. "We bring goodies!" The two senshi nodded. Seiun reached over and grabbed a cake that was about to topple. "Thank you! I had feared that I'd missed Nom's masterpiece."

"We got the last tray," giggled Chikako. "Hey, look, Yuki!" she pointed to a nearby couch. "In the middle of all this noise, Aisu fell asleep!"

Yuki looked over to see her cousin, still dressed in her party finery, sound asleep. The ice senshi just smiled and shook her head. "She always could sleep anywhere! I guess I'd better carry her to her room." Yuki sighed deeply. "Ah well, whatever happens to me, at least I know Hoth will have a future."

Xarae looked up at Yuki with compassionate, knowledgeable eyes. "Your future may not be as bleak as you foresaw. Nevertheless, you must live in this moment."

Yuki sighed once more. "I know. But sometimes it's hard..." She shook her head and stood up. "I might just head off to sleep myself."

"But it's still early!" protested Chikako.

"Well, I promised Master Windu I'd meet him for practice in the morning so... I don't know..." Yuki bowed then left quickly before her friends could try to persuade her to stay.

Heading over to the couch, she used a touch of the Force to keep Aisu asleep as she picked the little chibi up in her arms then headed off to Aisu's room.

Yuki gently tucked the sleeping Aisu into bed, making sure the little girl's favorite stuffed cabbit was close at hand. Looking indulgently down on the peaceful face, the ice senshi gently smoothed the soft blue covers around her planet's chibi. Whether or not Yuki herself would survive, here was living proof that Hoth would someday be reborn. Yuki turned off the light, leaving only the soft glow of Aisu's snowball nightlight shimmering in the dark.

Closing the door, she leaned against it a moment, shutting her eyes and sighing deeply. If she must die so that her planet would be saved, then so be it! She would make the most out of whatever time she had. After all, she was living in the world of her dreams; using her years of martial arts training to fight the Darkness as a Sailor Jedi, getting to use a real lightsaber and flying around the galaxy in real spaceships. Best of all, she knew for certain that the coming Darkness would end and that the Light would eventually triumph. Anakin would be someday be redeemed by the love of his son, the Sith would be destroyed and peace would return to the galaxy. She had wonderful friends who cared about her, dastardly enemies to fight, and an entire world to save. Who could ask for more?

Yukiko opened her eyes, straightened her shoulders and headed back to the party with new resolve.

"Hey, Yuki-ko!" came the voice of Yukiko's beloved Ben, waking her from her trip down memory lane. His handsome face poked around the edge of her open door. "Did you find the banners?"

"Yes, but I also found this!" She showed him the holocube.

"Wow! I thought you'd lost that a year ago!"

"Riko must have hidden it in the closet. I found it while looking for the banners." She sighed. "So much has happened since then! New senshi, more villains, the rise of Darkness and chaos in the Old Republic..."

"And many complicated family situations," added Ben wryly, thinking of all the villain/senshi relationships that had been revealed in the last Earth year.

"That's for sure," Yuki shook her head. Standing up to better wrap her arms around her beloved, she smiled. "But some wonderful things have happened as well," she said as she once again admired her engagement ring.

"Hmmm, whatever could you mean?" Ben teased, pulling her close so he could kiss the tip of her nose.

"Brat!" Yuki swatted him playfully then sighed happily. "Throughout all the difficult times all of us - senshi, chibi and knights - have stood together as beacons of Light against the rising Darkness, bound by friendship and love. Truly we have been blessed by the Force."

"Yes, we have," smiled her beloved. "May the Force continue to be with us for many more years to come!" Breaking free of her embrace yet keeping hold of one hand, he pulled his love towards the door. "Now it's time to celebrate!!"

Kamidana is literally "shelf of the gods" and is a kind of small family Shinto shrine found in many Japanese homes. Many Japanese follow a rather mixed bag of Buddhist and Shinto beliefs with the occasional Christian holiday or custom tossed in for good measure. Since Yuki's parents were actually from Hoth and her mom was Jedi, the way of the Force would most closely match the native Japanese Shinto faith, where "kami" or the gods, are myriad expressions of the divine power manifested in nature and the universe.
Ancestors are greatly honored and remembered regularly in prayers. Mirrors and reflections hold special importance as symbols of the Sun-goddess, Amaterasu, mother of the Japanese people, and her brother, Susano-no-mikoto, a great mythic warrior hero, who used a mirror as a shield. Which is one reason why many historical buildings were built next to rivers or lakes where one can see another reflection of the building. Also explains why Sailor Neptune's mirror is so powerful! So I have Yuki following some Shinto traditions as well as having Ice Reflection Surround for an attack. :)

Hakama are baggy trousers/split skirt like the red ones that Rei/Sailor Mars wears as a Shinto priestess.

Miyagi-sensei, onegai shimasu is a standard phrase used (with appropriate modifications) at the start of most Japanese martial arts classes. In this context, the polite "please" is used to ask those who are held in honor by the school for their favor. So Yuki is, in essence, asking her mother and her former teacher for their blessing.