Private Abracadabra | Velvet Diplomacy

[Ivalyn Yvarro]

The Hycainth Palace stood at the center of Qosantyra like a jewel set into the crown of the capital.

its domes shimmered beneath the late afternoon sun, its Nabooian curves rising gracefully above slender Dosuunian spires that pierced the sky like polished spears of marble and gold. From the palace terraces, one could see the sprawling capital unfold toward the distant sea, towering ministries, gardens suspended between levels of the city, and the gleaming lanes of the great starport where vessels rose toward orbit like migrating constellations.

The palace itself had been built to embody the Commonwealth.

Elegant. Ancient. Unmistakably powerful.

Within in its grounds, the Petal Court lay open beneath the sky. The ceremonial plaza took its name from the hyacinth flower that inspired the palace's design. Mosaic petals spread across the marble floor in sweeping patterns of violet and gold, surrounding a series of cascading fountains whose water caught the sunlight in shimmering arcs.

It was here that the Pasha addressed rulers.

Today, it was where one would be welcomed.

Ivalyn Yvarro stood at the edge of the court where fountains whispered softly in the warm coastal air. The ivory fabric of her gown moved gently with the breeze, the gold chainwork at her collar catching the sun like threads of quiet fire. Behind her rose the grand entrace of the palace itself, framed by towering columns carved luminous marble.

Far above the plaze, the palace's central dome reflected the sky.

Beyond its doors waited the Starlight Atrium, the heart of the palace. The chamber where the Commonwealth recieved the galaxy. Even now its kyber crystal chandeliers shimmered faintly within, catching beams of light from the skylights above and scattering them across the floor in delicate constellations of blue and silver.

It was a room designed for diplomacy, and for spectacle.

The arrival of the High Republic's Chancellor had already stirred the capital. Diplomatic craft had been sighted entering the system hours earlier, escorted through the orbital lanes and down into Qosantyra's immaculate starport district.

Somewhere beyond the Dosuunian horizon, the Bakura Hypergate pulsed quietly in the void. An ancient corridor of commerce, power and possibility. Whoever commanded access to its routes, commanded the lifeblood of trade moving between vast regions of the galaxy.

Today, however the Commonwealth sought partnership.

Partnership, Ivalyn knew well, was a form of negotiation best conducted in rooms where every stone whispered power.

Soft footsteps approached behind her across the marble.

One of her aides bowed respectfully.

"Your Excellency," he said. "The Chancellor's delegation has entered the palace grounds."

Ivalyn lifted her gaze briefly toward the palace dome gleaming overhead. The Pasha had met with princesses, empresses and mercenary war lords. The palace's halls had seen deals signed that reshaped the Commonwealth's history.

Today would simply be another page in that history. At last she turned, hazel eyes calm and bright as the last light of the evening settled across the petal court.

"Excellent," she responded softly, "let us welcome the Chancellor to Qosantyra."

The fountains continued their quiet song as the doors of the Hycainth Palace opened behind her.

Dominique Vexx ​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Under the circumstances, Dominique trusted the Commonwealth would understand as four different 'diplomatic' convoys entered their territory on different vectors of approach. When challenged for their purpose and intended destination, each would supply the exact same answer word for word: They were a High Republic delegation on a diplomatic mission to Qosantyra at the invitation of the Grand Vizier. Only one of them carried the Chancellor herself, of course.

In the wake of Moorja and other challenges of modern diplomacy in a growing dipolar galaxy, it had become necessary to ensure the Sith Order, Sith Empire, or any roaming band of aspirational Sith didn't have an easy time of blowing the Chancellor out of the stars. The Commonwealth expressed an interest in relations, but that did nothing to change the challenges of their astronomical location within reach of less amicable forces.

Only when the Commonwealth insisted at taking up escorting the Chancellor further did the other three veer off to take position; they would await the conclusion of the talks and resume the shell game on their way back to the High Republic.

Ordinarily, as soon as the ship landed, Dominique would disembark eager to explore new opportunities. Recent events and their present location both warranted she tarry longer aboard ship as certain 'checks' or risk assessments were made. Another unfortunate necessity that the Chancellor would play off as anything other than the truth. A sudden meeting on an urgent matter, perhaps. Anything to allow both parties to save face as unavoidable procedures were followed.

It wasn't long before she dismounted the craft, however. There were only so many things you could account for without being dreadfully obvious and insulting your host's willingness or ability to secure their own planet. As a show of good will, however, Dominique left the squadron of well-armed special forces behind as her escort showed her the way to the palace where Ivalyn waited. A few attendants followed to help with any bureaucratic matters, and translation if there happened to be any unexpected personages present.

Dominique smiled the entire way, of course. It was a pleasure to be there, after all, what wasn't to be happy about? She only hoped this wasn't yet another deception. There'd been too many of late. Quite the frustration to the Chancellor that sought to establish equitable deals with qualified parties. War was not an effective means at good market practices or reliable financial transactions.

As it was Ivalyn's domain, her guest would follow to any designated or allowable position and await the woman's welcome. She didn't want to presume to command the room. Doubtful the Grand Vizier would have a problem finding her voice.

Ivalyn Yvarro​

 

[Ivalyn Yvarro]

Dominique Vexx​

Ivalyn was if anything a patient woman.

It seemed as though the Chancellor was both thorough and cautious. Given recent events, the Pasha would not blame her for being so. Decoys, layered security, measured risk. All reasonable given the circumstances the High Chancellor had recently faced.

When Chancellor Vexx approached the court, Ivalyn inclined her head in a greeting that balanced formality with welcome. "Chancellor." Her voice carried easily across the polished marble and flowering terraces of the Petal Court. "I hope the journey to Dosuun was uneventful." Ivalyn suspected that one does not arrange four separate convoys unless experience has taught a certain degree of caution.

The Saffron Sea shimmered far below the palace terraces, and beyond it the skyline of Qosantyra rose like a crown against the afternoon light. It was a view deliberately chosen for meetings such as this. To contextualize that civilizations were built slowly and carefully. "Please," she continued, gesturing toward the shaded colonnade where refreshments had already been prepared, "walk with me."

Attendants kept a respectful distance, as the two leaders began along the terrace.

"For many years," Ivalyn said, her gaze briefly drifting toward the distant horizon where shuttles threaded the upper atmosphere. Carrying citizens to and from various destinations around the capital world. "The Commonwealth has been focused inward. Reconstruction, integration, and governance."

A faint, almost wry smile touched the corner of her expression.

"The Commonwealth was born from a turbulent era, and instead of exhausting ourselves by attempting to do everything at once. We have chosen patience."

She allowed a quiet moment before continuing.

"The galaxy does not require another government that mistakes ambition for stability."

Ahead of them the palace gardens opened into a wider promenade, where pale blue banners stirred gently in the sea breeze. "Our interest in meeting with the High Republic is therefore rather straightforward."

She glanced briefly toward Dominique.

"Understanding."

The Pasha had not wanted this meeting to ask for alliance, or create any sense of obligation.

"Civilizations separated by distance often know one another only through rumor and outdated assumptions." If they knew one another at all. "It seemed... inefficient to allow that condition to persist." Her hands folded loosely behind her back as they walked.

"Today's discussion need not produce immediate agreements," she added calmly, "diplomacy, like architecture, tends to produce stronger structures when the foundations are laid deliberately.

A pause, then a softer note of curiosity entered her voice. "I am far more interested, Chancellor, in how the High Republic currently sees the wider galaxy." Her gaze returned to Dominique fully now, as the pair now stood before the refreshment table. "After all, perspective often tells us more about a government than any treaty ever could."

Beneath the shaded colonnade, a long marble table had been arranged with quiet elegance. Porcelain cups rested beside polished silver teapots, their lids releasing faint curls of saffron blossom steam. Crystal bowls held slices of citrus and starfruit, while delicate almond cakes dusted with powdered sugar rested upon tiered trays.

Nearby, chilled platters of pearl oysters and saffron-glazed shrimp were arranged upon beds of crushed ice, their presentation understated but unmistakably luxurious.

Ivalyn allowed her attention to drift briefly toward the refreshments before turning back to the Chancellor.

"We were uncertain as to the flavor of tea that might best suit your palate," she said, gesturing lightly toward the arrangement. "So we prepared several."

An assortment of teas had been laid out, each accompanied by a small card describing its character.

"The first," Ivalyn said, resting her fingers lightly beside the porcelain cups, "is Saffron Blossom Tea."

Its card noted a flavor profile of floral warmth, gentle spice, and a honeyed finish. The tea rested in thin porcelain cups trimmed with delicate gold.

"The saffron is grown along the southern terraces outside Qosantyra," she added easily. "The flavor changes slightly depending on the sea winds that year."

Beside it sat a lighter offering, Dosuunian Citrus Tea, bright and refreshing. Its description listed notes of bergamot, starflower, and Finike orange. These cups were rimmed with a soft orange trim.

"This one tends to be favored during warmer afternoons," Ivalyn continued. "The citrus orchards that produce the Finike oranges sit not far from here along the coastal ridges."

The third selection rested in porcelain cups edged with teal: Silverleaf Mint, an herbal infusion known for its cool, clean flavor and the sharp, invigorating bite of fresh mint.

"And Silverleaf Mint," she said, the faintest hint of amusement touching her voice. "Quite invigorating. It has a tendency to wake up conversations that have grown… overly diplomatic."

As with any Dosuunian tea service, light accompaniments had been prepared to accompany the drinks. Crystal bowls held slices of starfruit, white melon, candied citron peel, and blood oranges grown along the coastal orchards of the region.

"A few small fruits from the surrounding orchards," Ivalyn explained. "The sea air tends to make them sweeter than those grown inland."

Around them rested small, delicate pastries, honey almond cakes prepared with saffron honey, orange blossom, and finely ground almonds.

"These are honey almond cakes," she said. "They have been served in Dosuunian courts for generations."

Nearby were crystal sugar dates, each stuffed with pistachio, honey cream, or almond paste. Sweet, but intentionally small.

"And crystal sugar dates," she added. "Quite sweet, though intentionally modest in size. Our chefs insist they are best taken one at a time."

Ivalyn's gaze shifted briefly toward the more savory arrangement set upon the adjoining table.

"There are also a few coastal dishes," she said.

There rested chilled Saffron Sea shrimp skewers, citrus-marinated and finished with a light saffron glaze and fresh sea herbs.

"The shrimp are taken from the Saffron Sea just beyond the city," she continued. "They are usually served chilled."

Beside them sat Golden Strand oysters, served in their half shells upon crushed ice and finished with a delicate citrus foam.

"And Golden Strand oysters," she added. "A local favorite."

A second set of crystal decanters held drinks of a different character.

"There is also Dosuunian sparkling wine," Ivalyn said, gesturing toward the decanter. Its accompanying card noted a golden hue, light bubbles, and soft citrus notes.

Nearby rested small glasses prepared for Saffron Blossom liqueur, a warm golden spirit infused with saffron, honey, and citrus peel.

"And a saffron blossom liqueur," she added. "Though I generally recommend that one later in the evening."

And finally, for those who preferred something simpler, there stood a chilled carafe of water, though Ivalyn's catering staff insisted on referring to it as crystalwater, infused lightly with citrus peel and fresh mint and served in cut crystal decanters.

"For something simpler," she concluded lightly, "there is crystalwater."

Her gaze returned to Dominique.

"I hope something here proves agreeable."

A brief pause, as the Pasha then quietly commented. "If you would prefer something more familiar, Chancellor, our kitchens were prepared to accommodate Nabooian tastes as well. I am told the palace chefs were quite determined to get the details correct."

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Dominique bowed her head a bit lower than Ivalyn. "Grand Vizier. Pleasantly so," she replied concerning the journey. Perhaps even surprisingly so, but the uncertainty may have stayed hands so they didn't appear incapable of discerning the true convoy. Sometimes appearances or pride was the only thing you could use to your advantage to stay and otherwise assertive hand.

A glance was spared for the view that Ivalyn so obviously wanted her guests to see as she bid for them to retire elsewhere. It was a world after Ayumi's own heart. Or, perhaps, Ayumi was striving to ensure Denon didn't come up second to Dosuun. Dominique would have to ask the Senator-Director if she'd been to this world before when she got back.

Their leisurely walk afforded them time to talk. The High Chancellor listened attentively to what the woman had to say in spite of the many visual distractions present. Made a woman wonder if it were all prearranged to destabilize certain visitors, and give the Grand Vizier the upper hand. Denon was a world replete with distraction, however, so Ivalyn would not find Dominique's attention wandering.

Unsurprisingly, the woman was well spoken. An impression Dominique had already made, but with the care taken in laying out the reason for crossing paths it was certainly so. It complimented the content of her words; words could be viewed as bricks laid either as road or foundation, and a steady hand avoided unplanned hazards.

"The High Republic respects the sovereignty of our neighbors, but cannot abide that very sovereignty being stripped from others, Grand Vizier." Dominique had glanced at the table they stood beside, but responded promptly to Ivalyn's call for clarity. "I won't claim that is an easy or simple balance to maintain. Nor that peace shall always prevail. Nonetheless, we will use every means to avoid conflict when possible, but," she paused for a single second, "we will not shy from it against those that understand no other language." The Commonwealth sought to be stand on its own, and for that they had Dominique's respect. Even so, she would continue to stress that very simple, but crucial message to every government in the galaxy: the High Republic was not their doormat. Too many thought by calling themselves a Republic they lacked the will to do what was necessary in order to survive. Dominique was prepared to demonstrate their resolve when necessary.

A great deal went into describing the many refreshments on display, which a younger diplomat might mistake for a waste of time. The thing with negotiation deals was nothing was ever out of place. Even the mistakes. Every word and action carried meaning whether a participants wished to convey it or not. In this case, Dominique suspected the Grand Vizier sought to discern more by the choices her guest would make, or how she responded to them.

"Most thoughtful," Dominique had led with as Ivalyn noted they'd afforded options just in case.

A soft chuckle accompanied Ivalyn's description of the mint tea. "Surely not. While I might not be Mandalorian, I see no reason to dance around an issue when one needs discussed. Please, let me know if I stray." Overly diplomatic. Well, there were times when circumstances could keep your guard held up too long or too high.

Once she finished the many delights on display, Dominique smiled. "As High Chancellor I, of course, have no favorite, but as a humble citizen of the Republic, I admit my tastes remain with Denon. But, no, I wouldn't dare trouble your kitchens. I find everything you'd shown and spoken of here today most agreeable. It almost begs a person to return in order to have time to properly enjoy each of them." While she could take a little of everything, could someone truly say they'd experienced something with a mere nibble? Not to mention how indecisive that would seem.

"I believe the Saffron Blossom Tea, fruit, oysters, honey almond cakes, and crystalwater would be lovely. Would that be a proper plate to taste the splendor of Dosuun?" The spice of the tea should balance with the sweetness of fruit, while oysters and the cakes were local favorites. As for the water, much as Dominique liked a good wine it was probably best to remain clear headed no matter how light the buzz.

Ivalyn Yvarro​

 

[Ivalyn Yvarro]

Dominique Vexx​

Ivalyn inclined her head slightly at the Chancellor's selection, the faintest hint of approval softening her otherwise composed expression. "A well-considered balance," she commented, "the saffron tends to settle the sharper notes of the citrus. Our chefs would be pleased to know their efforts have been properly appreciated."

At a subtle gesture, attendants moved with quiet efficiency. Porcelain was lifted, cups filled, plates arranged nothing hurried, and never intrusive. Each motion carried the same deliberate restraint that defined the space itself.

Ivalyn accepted her own cup of saffron blossom tea but did not drink immediately. She instead, waited for Dominique to recieve her cup and then regarded the Chancellor for a moment, thoughtful. "You are correct," she said at last, her voice calm but precise. "Peace is rarely simple, and it is almost never permanent."

Her gaze drifted briefly toward the skyline beyond the colonnade, where the distant movement of ships traced faint lines across the upper atmosphere.

Refocusing her attention, the Grand Vizier went on, "the Commonwealth has learned that lessons rather thoroughly." A quiet understatement given its history. "We do not seek to impose ourselves upon our neighbors." She continued.

"But neither do we intend to be shaped by pressures beyond our borders. Sovereignty, if it is to mean anything at all, must be able to withstand both diplomacy and resistance."

A measured echo of Dominique's own words, an agreement really. She lifted her cup slightly, more gesture than indulgence. "In that respect, I suspect our governments are not so dissimilar."

There was a pause that followed, one that allowed the weight of that observation to settle naturally rather than press itself forward. "Stability," Ivalyn went on, "is an unremarkable word for something so difficult to achieve. It requires restraint when action would be easier, and action when restraint becomes untenable."

Her tone remained even, but there was a quiet steel beneath it now.

"The mistake many governments make is believing they may choose only one."

Ivalyn then took a small sip of her tea, subtle, controlled. "I am glad you chose to join us here, Chancellor." She added, setting the cup lightly back into its saucer. "There is value in speaking plainly, particularly when the alternative is allowing assumptions to do the work for us."

Her expression softened just slightly, less distant, although no less composed. "And I would prefer we understand one another clearly." She led the Chancellor to small table set aside for them, one that provided a rather beautiful view of the outlying Saffron Sea. "Before circumstances decide otherwise."