Private How Do You Solve a Problem Like the Jedi?

[Adelle Bastiel]

Mandalorian Embassy, Theed, Naboo
Tags: Quinn Varanin | Sibylla Abrantes

To Lady Sibylla Abrantes,

We have a problem.

Mandalorian security caught on holocam someone harrassing Quinn Varanin outside the Embassy itself. Varanin herself contacted me—which should tell you something, Echani have no love for Mandos—and said the girl in the footage identified herself as a Jedi. A rank was not mentioned.

You and I both know Varanin’s presence is complicated, even with the Accords. I don’t know what authority the Jedi have within the Republic’s structure, but this is A Problem. Mandalorians already have a history with both sides of the Force philosophy and this will absolutely overshadow any progress of goodwill if this escalates beyond one confrontation.

Varanin has requested a meeting with me. I’d like to bring you in—she mentioned trusting you? You have far more familiarity with the High Republic’s laws concerning Force Users and your knowledge would be invaluable in finding a way to resolve this.

I will have to tell Aether and a security report has already been filed, but I’d like to have this problem fixed first. Or a solution in place, at least.

Here are the earliest dates and times I’d be available for a meeting.

Respectfully,
Adelle Bastiel
Ambassador of the Mandalorian Empire
Iron Lord

To the Queen and Warden of Eshan,

Please accept my apologies that this was allowed to occur on the Embassy’s very doorstep. Security had alerted me to an altercation but by the time I had been notified and able to intervene, the Jedi had already left. A report has been filed.

Concerning your presence here, the accords were very clear. So long as you operated within the High Repuplic as the sovereign representative of Eshan and obeyed its laws as any other citizen, you were to be allowed to move freely as a diplomat of the Empire. There are legal protections in place and you have kept your word so far as I’m aware. My question is: do you feel safe to continue working in High Republic space? You mentioned a preference to stay. You have the legal right to do so. Accommodations can be made to prevent further incidents.

I share your sentiment regarding the Jedi Order. My experience with Jedi led me to believe that even the Padawans are taught the basics of diplomacy. Given the security holocam footage, I am reassessing that assumption.

I have sent Lady Abrantes a message already. A meeting has been scheduled and provided it does not interfere with your own schedule, you will have the opportunity to speak with me. If a private meeting is desired, I can be flexible in arranging that.

It is my desire to resolve this quickly to keep Mandalore’s business unimpeded.

This is the date and time of the meeting.

Respectfully,
Adelle Bastiel
Ambassador of the Mandalorian Empire
Iron Lord

Adelle watched the chronometer like a shriek-hawk, even as she paced her office. It had the expansive, artistic Naboo architecture, which put the Mandalorian style of ‘decorating’ in a strange juxtaposition, form versus pure function. Adelle had swapped out some furniture pieces for locally made ones—a desk and sidebar made from Perlote wood, chairs made with locally woven fabrics, a rather plush rug in the casual sitting area covering the polished tile floors. The Mythosaur skull cast in metal still hung above her desk, front and center, unchanged.

Refreshments sat on a hovercart: tea, caf, local snacks and desserts. Alor Skirata had told her never to hold a meeting on empty stomachs and that as host, it was her responsibility to provide that option. Adelle only hoped nothing on offer would offend—barring that one time in a scummy Coruscanti club, Adelle had met Quinn exactly once. And the relations between Mandalorians and the Echani were understandably best described as ice-cold civility.

The ends of the navy blue and gold surcoat she wore brushed her black trousers as she paced. She wore one of the simpler outfits of her new wardrobe—if anything made by Aurelian’s tailors could be called simple. The hems had all been embroidered with gold thread, including the white tunic beneath, and a gold sash sat beneath a black belt around her waist, cinching everything together. It was far more loose fabric than she was used to. But beskar’gam and her Iron Lord regalia didn’t feel right for this meeting.

The chronometer clicked closer to the appointed time. Adelle took a deep breath and settled into a CorSec parade rest stance by her desk. They would meet, they would speak, and hopefully, this matter would be settled cleanly.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Adelle Bastiel //: Sibylla Abrantes //:
//: Naboo, Theed //:
//: Mandalorian Embassy //:
//: Attire //:

Quinn had refused to go on her own. As much as she was fully capable of defending herself, to do so, she would break the promises she had given. Breaking those promises also came at a cost for her own safety within the dark world of the Sith. If people knew more about what she was, safety would be in question forever.

At moments like this, she questioned her mothers, was this their plan all along? Was she meant to be more of a tool than a human? Too many questions that were often met with answers that didn't truly answer. Maybe there was no intent, only the desire for her to live.

The thought made the young Echani snort.

She walked quietly beside the guard, almost right after the altercation with the Jedi, Quinn summoned CT-312 . The woman was head of her security detail, but also one of the few who could honestly do the Queen's bidding. 312 had proven herself invaluable; it was why she was often the woman's first call.

"I apologize for the short notice," Quinn smiled as she glanced to her side towards the masked trooper. "Lucky for me you were already on Naboo." She nodded along, listening to the explanation, of course vague as the trooper often was when detailing her missions.

They arrived at the door, and Quinn sighed softly. "I should be done in a few hours. I'll call you when I'm ready if that's okay." Pausing, she looked up at the security cameras and the rest of the detail. As much as she knew she was safe, there was still something that clawed at the back of her mind.

"312, could you… just stick close by in case something happens." It seemed the clone was already thinking about doing that. Quinn smiled and entered the embassy.

Quiet pleasantries were exchanged as Quinn was guided towards the office of the Ambassador. A knock and the door opened, Quinn entered far more clothed than the last time they met. A part of her was thankful that the woman had decided against her armor. As much as Quinn has grown past the incident, the sight of the armor still caused a cold grip on her spine.

"Ambassador, it's a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance." The Eshan Queen smiled, holding a hand towards Adelle. She knew of the woman, had met her at that horrid club, but this was professional… a world beyond that mess.

"My apologies for how quickly this all needed to be done. I hope it didn't cause any problems." Quinn's smile was tight, small. A large contrast from the norm. She was quiet as she looked away, her eyes falling upon the mythosaur decor.

She hated it.

"How did my cousin take it…?" Quinn knew how Aether was, she did wonder if he had reached out to her Mother...

But Naboo was still in one piece... so she'd assume he didn't.

"I am sorry for causing problems, it was never my intention..."

 

[Adelle Bastiel]

Tags: Quinn Varanin | Soon™: Sibylla Abrantes

The doors opened and admitted Quinn Varanin, daughter of the Sith Empress but more importantly at the moment, Queen of Eshan and reluctant Mandalorian Warden. Adelle smiled politely back, remembering to just take the hand and not the forearm like Mandalorians did.

“The pleasure’s mine, Your Majesty,” she said. She gave a firm shake and then gestured to the sitting area off to the side. “Please make yourself comfortable.”

Adelle led the way to the sitting area, three separate chairs encircling a low round table. She figured it was a better way to hold this conversation as opposed to having Varanin and Sibylla on the opposite side of her desk. Queen Varanin’s apologies were accompanied by a small smile that seemed strained. Adelle waved them off.

“This is a matter I’d rather have solved sooner than later,” she said. “I was more than willing to move whatever I needed to in order to get this scheduled.”

Quinn’s eyes fell on the mythosaur skull. Adelle watched closely, acutely aware of the painful history between their respective people and the rather tenuous understanding between them now. She slightly pulled out the chair most angled away from the skull, offering it to Varanin, before standing in front of one of the other chairs. Honestly, she’d thought about removing the skull—it had received plenty of stares and looks of all stripes and tended to distract from the conversations being held. But she could only imagine the lecture she’d get if either Renn Vizsla or Aether found out.

"How did my cousin take it…?" Quinn knew how Aether was, she did wonder if he had reached out to her Mother...

“Well Naboo still exists.” A dry, dark sort of humor layered her voice as she sat when Varanin did. “And there hasn’t been a call to crusade on the Jedi, so I think he’s taken it remarkably well. He wasn’t terribly surprised. The rest of his message I do need to relay to Lady Abrantes as well so the details will have to wait.”

Phantom came running from whatever dark hole she had found to nap in and hopped up in Adelle’s lap. Adelle sighed but made no move to stop the spukami from curling up. When the Queen started apologizing again, Adelle tilted her head.

“Forgive me for asking, but why are you apologizing?” she asked. “You didn’t ask to be accosted by someone claiming to be a Jedi. You didn’t go out of your way to antagonize them. You’ve conducted yourself accordingly and kept to the Accords. This isn’t a problem you caused, Your Majesty.”

“Have you had any problems getting your security detail the necessary clearances for the Embassy?”

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Sibylla did her best to conceal the tension that lingered at the edge of her lips and more tellingly, along the straight line of her spine in the wake of Adelle Bastiel 's message. The hours that followed had been spent seeking clarity where she could find it and creating it where she could not. The Jedi Order had been contacted for their position while Republic channels were quietly set in motion to uncover what answers might yet be coaxed from the situation.

How it had happened was one matter... but what was to be done about it was quite another matter.

Truth be told, it could not be said that Sibylla was surprised that the Jedi took an interest in Quinn Varanin . By all public accounts, while they had little information about the Sith Empire due to the Black Wall, what they did know is that Quinn was the Sith Princess, identified as the daughter of Ashin Varanin and Spencer Varanin -- a distinction that invited scrutiny as naturally as it did suspicion not just with any courtier and political, but also in the wake of the ongoing chaos in the galaxy with the Sith Covenant. That alone might have been enough to complicate matters, though it hardly ended there. Aether's revelation that the Queen of Eshan was his blood kin added another layer to it, not to mention how Quinn had been raised alongside under the influence of Empress Srina Talon as well -- a name that Naboo had history with from the time it had been under Confederacy rule as well.

Add to that the Republic's prior warrant following the events at Wielu and the attack against Aurelian, the unsuccessful attempt to reach Quinn through Mauve in light of her connections with Black Sun as much as the Zeltron, and one might reasonably conclude the situation had already outgrown any polite definition of manageable.

And that was before more personal matters came into play.

Moorja was not something so easily dismissed. Quinn had saved her life -- and while Aurelian was quick to relay that it likely had something to do with something Quinn had planned or benefited her, the conversation that the Sibylla had with the blonde, despite being brief, was not without considerations that confused her as much as made her think. Part of her felt that Quinn had revealed more to Sibylla than the Queen had wanted to, and perhaps that was why she had admitted to her position as a Sith Councilor. Though what that truly meant, Sibylla was still trying to understand... and who to talk to about it to find out more?

Lorn, Cora, Aiden? Grandmaster Quin? Or should she trust Republic intelligence? Discuss it with Dominique?

Every option had its pro and cons.

Especially now. Especially in the wake of Ace's fall, after watching him descend with a stubborn, almost desperate conviction into a version of himself that was no longer familiar, as it was fanatical. After facing the Chiss Imperial Elite who had slaughtered the Corellian delegation without hesitation and left scars that were both visible and otherwise in her wake. After witnessing firsthand the devastation a Force wielder could inflict on civilians with little more than thought and a flick of their wrist... well there was no denying it now. Force users could be dangerous.

Catastrophically so.

And it was not just the Sith. For all the efforts of Lorn, for the council offered by Cora, Aiden Porte, Grandmaster Quin, and Lysander in his earlier years, there was no clear, unified stance. From what Sibylla could gather, the Jedi themselves were still grappling with how they fit into the wider galaxy.

A disquieting thought given that they were what essentially, were the Force users who would be fighting the very chaotic Sith who were determined to burn the galaxy in flames.

Perhaps Aurelian had been correct. The Force was a wild card... and not one of morality, but a magnifier. It did not choose but amplified what the individual desired instead. And if what it amplified was destruction... then consequences could be devastating.

Which begged the question... Where did Quinn stand?

Those brief minutes on Moorja had not been enough to answer it. If anything, they had only revealed that Quinn herself stood at odds with that answer.

Was that better? Or worse?

Either way, the political reality remained.

The Treaty of Twin Crowns was explicit in its expectations. Diplomats were to be afforded protection, their conduct and roles clearly defined within agreed bounds. It was this discourse that allowed the warrant against Quinn to be dropped, allowing her to act within her role. So far, by every observable measure, Quinn was acting within her capacity as Queen of Eshan and Warden of Mandalore.

And yet there was no denying that by her own quiet account, Quinn was both a Sith Princess and a Sith Councilor. Even Sibylla knew those distinctions were not mutually exclusive, and it had rolled through her mind as she struggled to determine what to do with that information and the risks involved.

Especially now, with how a noble had been tied to the Republic attacks by the Sith Covenant. Tensions were high, and if she couldn't trust one of her dearest friends to resist the pull of the dark, how could she trust Quinn? WOuld it be responsible of her to? The empath in her, the one who would see a bit more beyond the norm, told her there was more to it, but the cynical part, the one slowly being hardened by every ongoing interaction with the Sith, was making it difficult to view it through a completely neutral lens.

Especially when her priority was Naboo. To the Republic. And to protect and defend those under her care.

It was a concern Sibylla had noted even at Quinn's coronation that a moment would come when such titles might no longer balance with each other. No one was free from bias, and no one could entirely separate knowledge from a decision that would impact so many aspects of the major governments known to Quinn... least of all someone walking the line Quinn now did.

Now here Sibylla was, giving a grateful nod of acknowledgment as she passed through security at the Mandalorian Embassy, offering a quiet word of thanks to those who had since grown accustomed to her presence. And while she knew the path to Adelle's office, she was escorted just the same, her arrival relayed as she waited to be invited into the office.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Adelle Bastiel //: Sibylla Abrantes //:

The smile she held on her face softened slightly. It broke as she sighed. Quinn knew the Ambassador was right; she had done nothing wrong, but that didn't stop anything. She couldn't look at the Jedi and tell them, I'm innocent. What good would that do? Their minds were made up; there were too many signs lingering around her that allowed them to draw the conclusions they did.

Her eyes wandered towards the snacks, each one reminding her of a small memory, ones that she held close, ones that allowed her to continue. She didn't take anything; there was no need, no will to feel more weight in her belly.

Quinn shook her head lightly, "My security team is small, I'm fully capable of defending myself if the need arises. The fewer people I have around me." In reality, the only security team she needed was the trooper who was most likely doing a perimeter sweep around the embassy. 312 was enough — she was one of the few Quinn trusted her life with.

A small huff of a chuckle escaped the young Queen's lips as she groaned lightly.

"I apologize because what else can I do?" Quinn wondered how much Adelle actually knew about her. It was evident that while she was aware that her standing for the most part within the Sith Order was substantial… Quinn figured she was unaware of the actual sway. Quinn took the seat the woman offered her, but a panic settled in her chest.

Like a child waiting for their favorite toy to be taken away, Quinn tightened her hand against the fabric of her pants. It was a grip so tight that she could still feel the tips of her nails pressing into her palm. Her hands ached, but it was enough to give her something else to focus on.

"I've stayed within my boundaries, but it's not what I've done that is the problem here…" Her voice shook, almost quivering, her internal turmoil bleeding despite her efforts.

"It's everything tied to me. My family, where I'm from, the choices of others, that I had ZERO say in." Her chest tightened as breathing suddenly became strained. She had never been in this situation before. When something stressful had happened, she always had her Mother, Srina. The woman always came swooping in to catch her. Here, on Naboo…

She was alone.

Her hands found their way to the top of the table; they shook, uncontrolled as her thoughts spiraled. What if this was it? What if everything Sibylla had said was going to come true? The warnings she had received from her Mother, suddenly real?

Quinn looked around the room. Despite Adelle's efforts to make the room as neutral as possible, it still resembled Mandalorians. Again, they had set her on a path to ruin — if only Ashin had been late, if only she had been allowed to just fade away.

Why couldn't Vesta take her with her?

A hand covered her lips as she avoided Adelle's gaze; she didn't even think to feel for others in the area. Her mind focused on the disaster that everything had become. She was trapped. There was no one who would come to save her this time. Adelle could try, and Sibylla too, but this was beyond their control.

"I didn't even want this… I didn't choose any of this…" Her breathing quickened as she continued to stare at the mythosaur skull in the room.

Quinn knew she just had to let go — all of this would be solved. She could run, escape from everyone.

"I wanted to see the seasons… Jutrand doesn't have those." She murmured as she blinked quickly, trying to hide the tears. In this moment, Quinn showed her age, her immaturity, and wistful dreams that things could remain simple.

"Eshan snows earlier in the season than having an actual Fall," She paused and then looked to Adelle. "You know, I've never seen the leaves change colors before. I was looking forward to that."

Her eyes suddenly became a brighter green as she did her best to control the emotions in her heart. It was stupid to believe that she could outrun what she was, what she was destined to become. She knew, she had always known that this was just too good to be true.

While the Jedi were always portrayed as merciful, their mercy had limits. She was an abomination, a monster under her pretty face.

If only they knew what she truly was…

"Adelle…" her voice small as she choked on her words, a tear slowly fell, rolling down the side of her slightly reddened face.

"I'm so scared…"

And, like a child, she wished her Mother were here...

 

[Adelle Bastiel]

Tags: Quinn Varanin | Sibylla Abrantes

The smile faded slowly before a sigh erased it completely. Adelle stayed quiet, observing, having never interacted with Varanin this much before. It was always in a professional setting, or incredibly public, where behavior had to follow a certain script like a play acted out for an audience. There was something almost wistful in the way the Echani looked at what Adelle had set out for refreshments—she’d taken the liberty of enlisting the Echani staff for a list of foods Varanin enjoyed and sprinkled them in among the more local fare. The plate of ryshcates she’d included for herself.

“The fewer people I have around me…”

Her words arrested Adelle’s attention even as she continued, bemoaning the predicament they faced. Adelle listened closer, her brain having supplied the unspoken last part: the better. Varanin thought herself a danger to those around her, enough to only use a small security team when more intimidating figures would have demanded teams whose size bordered on ridiculous.

"I've stayed within my boundaries, but it's not what I've done that is the problem here…" Her voice shook, almost quivering, her internal turmoil bleeding despite her efforts.

"It's everything tied to me. My family, where I'm from, the choices of others, that I had ZERO say in."

Little tells accompanied what Varanin said. Her hands gripped her pants with white knuckles. Her voice quavered. Labored breaths followed in the silence after. Adelle rested an elbow on the arm of her chair, fist loosely curled and lightly resting against her mouth. Phantom’s ears perked up as she made a purring chirp, head snapping up to look at Varanin. The spukami hopped down from Adelle’s lap as the Queen covered her mouth and looked around the room.

The mythosaur skull held her attention once again.

"I wanted to see the seasons… Jutrand doesn't have those." She murmured as she blinked quickly, trying to hide the tears. In this moment, Quinn showed her age, her immaturity, and wistful dreams that things could remain simple.

"Eshan snows earlier in the season than having an actual Fall," She paused and then looked to Adelle. "You know, I've never seen the leaves change colors before. I was looking forward to that."

It was such a small, honest admission, barely spoken aloud. Adelle met Varanin’s gaze, mismatched blue and brown attentive to more than just her words. The Echani had been quite expressive the few times Adelle had seen her elsewhere but her emotions had always been kept under wraps. It said a lot that Adelle could now feel echoes of Varanin’s distress. The young woman still held herself together, still held everything back that she could, but even her Force presence trembled.

"Adelle…" her voice small as she choked on her words, a tear slowly fell, rolling down the side of her slightly reddened face.

"I'm so scared…"

The words cut.

This wasn’t an act. This wasn’t a ploy to prey on compassion. Quinn was still incredibly young and burdened with immense responsibilities. Adelle didn’t know much about her, but growing up the child of Queens and an Empress could not have meant a normal childhood. A child made to grow up too fast.

Phantom hopped up onto Quinn’s chair, squeezing herself in the inch between Quinn’s lap and the arm before placing a paw on her leg and mewing. <<I help.>>

Adelle didn’t say anything. Not yet. What could be said that wouldn’t sound trite or forced? She stood slowly so she wouldn’t startle Quinn and moved to the wall behind her desk. Datacard shelves lined most of it, aside from a cabinet, but there had been space made for the metal-cast skull. She placed her hands against the shelves, feeling their connection to the wall and the anchors in it holding the skull in place.

Aether, Monroe, and Viszla could yell at her all they wanted.

Carefully, she pulled the skull free from the wall with an unseen hand, doing her best not to damage the wall or anchors. It was then placed under her desk, out of sight. Adelle returned to the sitting area but instead of taking her seat, she knelt beside Quinn.

“Quinn,” she said gently. “You are not alone in this.”

"You fight like you are alone, like the weight of the battle is none but yours to bear."

Fething Monroe. Adelle kept the consternation with the Warmaster locked away, focusing on the young woman unraveling in front of her.

“I won’t pretend to know what you’re going through.” That would do neither of them any favors. “But I get wanting to see the leaves change. Coronet sits on the coast, close to the equator. The seasons there all look the same.”

Her datapad chimed with an alert. Adelle knew without looking that it meant Sibylla had arrived and was on her way. She took a deep breath.

“We’re going to find a solution,” she said. “That’s what this meeting is for.”

Whether or not that solution would be permanent was another matter entirely. Adelle had been present at the victory feast when Quinn had been appointed to Dark Councillor. And as much as Quinn was the daughter of the Echani queen Spencer Varanin, she was just as much the daughter of the Sith Empress. The Heir Apparent.

Titles and mantles carried weight. They pulled with expectations and responsibilities. Ambassador alone was enough for Adelle to bear.

Adelle stood up and touched the end of the arm of the chair with her fingertips. She didn't dare try to lay a hand on Quinn, even to comfort. For Adelle, any touch needed consent first.

“Sibylla is here. I can give you a few moments.” She crossed the office to the door, making sure the door closed behind her quickly. Sibylla herself seemed tense. That tracked. The whole thing with the Jedi was a political clusterkriff and could have far-reaching consequences.

“Sibylla,” Adelle said. “Thank you for being available so quickly. I wish it was for drinks instead but...”

She gestured with a hand. They both knew why they were here.

“No problems getting here?” she asked. Hopefully, Adelle could buy Quinn enough time to collect herself.

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Adelle Bastiel Quinn Varanin

When the doors slipped shut behind her, Sibylla exhaled a breath she had not realized she was holding. The whisper of her skirts, along with the light jingle of her headdress, followed her as she stepped further into the office, the tension she was trying to contain not quite leaving her.

"Well," she offered Adelle a tight smile, twisting at the edge of her lips, "drinks may still be an option tonight, depending."

The dryness in her tone carried easily, threading through the room with the kind of wry understatement that acknowledged exactly how strained the situation truly was.

Then those hazel eyes shifted, finding Quinn Varanin had already arrived. Truth be told, there was nothing surprising in it, not when the Queen of Eshan's office sat within these very walls. And yet there was no denying the weight of those few seconds there, the memory of Moorja and what had followed since having percolated within Sibylla's mind. It had been a conversation that had never quite resolved itself, becoming more complex in the wake of the events of the Trinity with Ace, and how it undoubtedly colored her perspective. Her brother, Cassian, was also still missing -- one that Quinn had reached out to state her sympathies on and assurance if she discovered anything she would relay it.

Why would Quinn do that? Was it truly due to some underlying desire or goal? Or was there more to it? She wasn't a Force User so did not have the magical ability to discern in a way those within the Order did -- but she was a politician and she'd dealt with her years working within the Legislator and the Senate.

However, this was the first time being in the same space with the blonde ever since Moorja-- one that she was planning to bring up in subject to the Senate as the war on the borders was making it clear that a stance would need to be addressed on what to do with the Sith Covenant... and after Moorja, what should their position be with the Sith Empire?

Having this come up that a Jedi had approached Quinn and placed a disturbance on a protected diplomat was another political crisis they didn't need. But then again, there was no denying that Quinn's very position across the galactic spectrum and her visibility were what placed her in the spotlight more often than naught.

A position Sibylla knew well.

The curse of being born into a position of privilege as much as the burden of a crown. Quinn was not the only one to face scrutiny -- odds are, it would not be the last. Not when the Republic was the main recipient of refugees across the galaxy, fleeing either the effects of the Convergence or the Imperials, Sith, and Warlords at their borders and the Core. Each with their own versions of grievances and prejudices like any other world.

And while bedside manners from the report were atrocious, whatever that particular Jedi had done -- to a degree, Sibylla understood the concern. A concern that only seemed to grow in the wake of Ace's fall. The spider web of connections was not missed by Sibylla.

Which is why it made this even trickier.

No it was best to focus on the task at hand first.

"Your Majesty," Sibylla said, inclining her head with practiced grace to adhere to Quinn's title even as she proceeded to state, "As Ambassador to Mandalore, I assure you we are doing our due diligence on the matter."

Sibylla turned her attention back to Adelle, catching the question as it came.

"No. No issues," she replied smoothly, even as her posture shifted from greeting to purpose.

"We have already begun our own investigation into the matter," she continued, her tone steady and professional. "And we are in the process of gathering what clarification we can from the Jedi Order."

There was the faintest tightening at her lips as she drew a breath, choosing her next words with care.

"However," Sibylla added, "the Republic has seen a significant influx of refugees not only from the Convergence and the fall of the Alliance, but from the ongoing instability along our borders. That influx includes individuals from a number of Force-aligned organizations."

Another deep breath.

"But we hope to get more information shortly."

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Sibylla Abrantes //: Adelle Bastiel //:

Adelle's gestures were welcomed. Despite being small things, Quinn appreciated them as they alleviated some of the weight on her shoulders. Some tension relaxed as she could sense the faintest bit of understanding from the Mandalorian. Unlike others, Quinn let her gaze catch Adelle's. There was a curiosity; she had never seen a pair of mismatched eyes before — something that Quinn wished to question, but figured now wasn't the time.

For a brief moment, she could see why Aselia held affections for the woman.

As the woman walked away, a part of Quinn was thankful that Adelle hadn't touched her. While the thought was often to comfort, Quinn didn't know if she could handle another person doing that, good or bad. Still, Quinn was thankful. As Adelle stood and greeted Sibylla, Quinn glanced down to her lap to see the small feline. It wasn't who she expected to be there, but the comfort was welcomed.

Though as she thought about her own small guardian, the creature decided to pop into existence. The slender and small black cat curled around her leg possessively as it looked towards the other on her lap.

Yellow eyes flashed, sensing that Phantom had no ill intent toward the black creature's master.

The interaction drew Quinn's attention until she was addressed by the Voice of the Houses. Looking up, the emerald color in the Echani's eyes was brighter than usual — a small indication that she had been crying moments before.

Quinn smiled gently as she indicated her current situation. She didn't realize how the pair had suddenly alleviated some of the panic that was settling into her chest.

"My apologies, Sibylla, my lap seems to be occupied by two important individuals…" As she spoke, Tenebris seemed to have settled on sharing the girl's lap with the new friend.

Sibylla continued, and Quinn nodded, understanding the situation. It was inevitable, really, when she thought about it. Unlike others, Quinn was very out in the public eye. But that was the point… her position on the Council was to be a diplomat of sorts, but she wondered in what true capacity that was.

At times, she wondered if she was often the unwitting participant in something grand and sinister. Still, her own intent was for peace.

"I do have some information. Besides the encounter with the Jedi in front of the embassy. I was informed by a Jedi council member — who seemed either not in agreement with the Council or something else." She shifted in her seat, trying to settle with the two cats in her small lap.

"There's a Jedi I seem to have encountered while fighting on Woostri. Mind you, this was some time ago — before the plains shifted. Things were a lot less complex than for me… I had my duty as the daughter of the Empress…"

It was an uncomfortable thought. Her mind, then and now, was so disjointed and different. There was more at play for her, more people whose lives were entrusted to her.

"I know the woman's name; she had come up to me during the Chancellor's gala… I didn't recognize her, and she seemed to not enjoy that."

Quinn put her hand to her face as she remembered she had brushed the Jedi off the moment she had seen Bastila free.

"I was… distracted. That evening, so I'm assuming the slight is what caused her to bring such old news to the Jedi… who are now treating it in conjunction with my warrant as confirmation that I'm a sith…"

Quinn paused, remembering the warrant… they did choose a good picture of her.

"But the warrant ties me to the Black Sun, not the Sith Empire as a Sith Lord… do the Jedi know about the accords?"

 

[Adelle Bastiel]

Tags: Sibylla Abrantes | Quinn Varanin

Adelle gave a humorless laugh. “Why wait for tonight? I have a fully stocked sidebar.”

It was mostly a joke, but she’d probably have a drink of something strong after the conversation was over. She followed a step behind Sibylla back into the office, moving to the chair she had vacated just recently while Sibylla addressed Quinn professionally. Two black felines now occupied the Queen’s lap. Adelle stopped short of the chair, staring. Where the feth had the other one come from?

Phantom twitched an ear at her, one eye slowly opening before closing again. <<Not-cat.>>

"And then I woke up here and then I went up and then I was down, and oh my Varanin-"

Adelle remembered herself and sat down in her chair, tuning back in as Sibylla informed them that the Republic was looking into the matter. She hoped the ‘Not-cat’ wasn’t another Ria situation. That had been… memorable.

Quinn offered additional information: a member of the Jedi council warned her privately. A personal tie to the Echani queen or racial perhaps? The Echani she’d encountered reminded her of Corellians with their strong sense of independence and loyalty to their homeworld. More importantly, a different Jedi had an encounter with Quinn on Woostri before the Planeshift. Two to three years ago, at this point then. Which wasn’t a long time for personal memory, but politically, geographically, much had changed.

Adelle would let Sibylla handle the question about whether or not the Jedi Order had been informed. As the religious organization fell under Republic oversight, that was their responsibility and Adelle had assumed they’d done their part. An assumption that had lost its credibility with the confrontation. Better that than the alternative though.

“Even if they hadn’t been informed, if they actually looked at the warrant, it should show as ineligible or inactive, as per the Accords,” Adelle said. “Which makes me wonder if they only saw that there was a warrant and made assumptions.”

“But that’s almost irrelevant at this point.” She picked up a teacup from the hovercart and set it on the low table, intending to pour herself a drink. Tea. There was only tea on the cart. Feth it. Sibylla and Quinn would just have to judge her if she did it wrong. “Do the Jedi have any kind of judicial authority in the Republic? It was my understanding that they can’t hold the religious affiliation and hold any official capacity.”

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Adelle Bastiel Quinn Varanin

Sibylla's gaze lingered just briefly on the two felines as they circled close to Quinn in quiet, instinctive comfort.

A dark delicate brow lifted a fraction toward Adelle in silent inquiry. Phantom, she knew, was no ordinary creature nd was assigned for medical support for the Corellian Mandalorian. While it was entirely possible the animal simply sought attention, Sibylla was not inclined to assume coincidence where patterns might exist.

Still, not a question for now as more pressing matters came to mind, Sibylla's attention returning to Quinn, hazel eyes thoughtful as she considered what had been shared regarding the Jedi, the Council, and Quinn's past encounters that seemingly refused to remain in the past.

There was a small pause before she spoke, as though weighing not only her words, but the manner in which they ought to be received. Much like how she would continue with the appropriate use of the Quinn's royal address unless told otherwise. The last thing she wanted to do was to cause another issue. Had it been just Adelle, Sibylla would have been more informal.

"Old news or not, Your Majesty," Sibylla began quietly, reaching for the offered glass of water, "...has a rather persistent habit of shaping one's perspective -- particularly when circumstances are less than neutral."

It was a delicate way of saying it never truly left.

"A rather personal example," Sibylla continued, lifting her gaze again, "would be the Mandalorian Enclave attack on Dee'ja Peak some three years ago."

There was no dramatics in the telling, just facts.

"We lost several soldiers and citizens during the occupation of the capital building of Dee'ja Peak -- the City State under my father's oversight, my home." The Ambassador gave a slight pause, using the time to take a sip of water. Thinking back on it, she had almost drowned in those underground tunnels herself had not Lysander saved her life.

"It would not be inaccurate to say my initial view of Mandalorians was… decidedly unfavorable." Hazel eyes turned to Adelle, the faintest curve touched her lips, though it held little humor.

"And yet," Sibylla went on, "it became necessary to set that aside as best as I could when I was asked to assist Senator Veruna at the time, in drafting the original Treaty of Twin Crowns between the Royal Naboo Republic and the Mandalorian Empire.... and even more so," she added, "when Mand'alor saw fit to request me as Ambassador under that very treaty."

A choice she had not expected but one she had nonetheless honored.

"It was ultimately a decision," Sibylla relayed to them, "to approach the role with as much fairness as I could manage...both for the Republic and for Mandalore."

Those hazel eyes flickered briefly toward Adelle before returning to Quinn. That time with the Mandalorians and her attempt to truly learn from them had been the catalyst in changing her view and understanding the Mandalorian people as a whole, and more than a few as trusted friends, allies, and family.

"Trust, as it turns out, is not established in a moment of goodwill, but in the slow accumulation of consistent action."

She took a deep breath, coming to a slow halt to stare out the window into Theed City.

"And while I have not forgotten what occurred at Dee'ja Peak," she added, evenly, "I have learned that it is rarely wise to treat an entire people as though they share a single will."

Instead, it is built on where one's word and actions were what would build relationships. A choice done day in and day out.

Sibylla let the thought pass without pressing it further, shifting instead to the matter at hand.

"With regard to the Jedi," she continued, setting the glass aside, "upon the ratification of the second Treaty of Twin Crowns, the Iron Accords were made publicly accessible, including to the Order." Her head inclined slightly on the importance of it, "Particularly those provisions concerning diplomatic immunity and its scope."

Sibylla gave a small pause, musing as she added, "They would be well aware that the Queen and Warden of Eshan is recognized as a diplomatic envoy under those terms."

Which made the present situation… curious, her eyes briefly narrowing in consideration before she turned to Adelle.

"You are correct," Sibylla said. "The Jedi hold no judicial authority within the Republic. They are recognized as a religious, philosophical, and peacekeeping body that operates independently, yes, but still within the bounds of Republic law and the Charter of Unity."

"That said," she added, glancing between them, "it would seem there are two matters presently overlapping."

The brunette gave a slight tilt of her head.

"For the sake of clarity... are we addressing solely the altercation that occurred outside the Embassy," she asked, "or is this also in response to a separate concern raised by a member of the Jedi Council, Your Majesty?"

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Adelle Bastiel //: Sibylla Abrantes //:

Quinn let her hand fall over the two felines. Moving about the void puddle of fur, she found them to be comforting. Her eyes softened as she listened to both Ambassadors. There was a part of the young Queen that wondered if Sibylla would be as helpful as she is if the moment on Moorja had not happened.

For Quinn, she wouldn't have messaged the woman, not now and not about the loss she was dealing with. The Force had a funny way of weaving lives together for whatever purpose it willed. Quinn thought quietly as she continued to caress the animals in her lap. She picked up silently the stares at her own familiar that had joined the pile.

Perhaps she should introduce him, but how would either accept a manifestation of the Force in the shape of a simple cat? Quinn brushed the thought aside and looked to Adelle, who had brought up the warrant.

Quinn almost pouted, hearing that, of all things, the warrant should be labeled active. There was a part of her that took a small bit of pride in having it. Made her feel noticed — as something beyond a Queen, a Princess… a Sith Lord…

Still, she didn't argue it. Only wanting to remember its status after meeting the Sal-Soren sister in the gardens.

Even that encounter… she wondered how far out of grace she had fallen…

The conversation continued, with Quinn finding nothing to interject. Her eyes fell for a moment on the pair as she let her fingers caress gently through Phantom's fur. She wondered what its name was, wondering if it had a people name. Her lips curled into a small, gentle smile. She would name it Bartholameow or something similar.

Sibylla brought up something personal, and Quinn's attention shifted. She had learned a bit about the woman during their escape on Moorja, but she hadn't figured she'd learn more here.

Quinn shifted in her seat, the story similar to something she experienced herself. The attack on Dee'ja Peak was something she heard, but couldn't recall if it was through the filtered news of the Sith Order or a history book.

It wasn't the timeline, nor what had occurred. Instead, it was the familiarity in Sibylla's tone, the knowing swirl of emotions when it came to a whole people. Quinn couldn't put words to how she felt, but it was almost uncomfortable with how much she could empathize with the Noble woman in this moment. Quinn's eyes also looked to Adelle. She wondered what her reaction would be after Quinn acknowledged the past as well.

"Perhaps I could learn from you, Ambassador." Quinn started, her tone soft with the heavy implication. They both had their childhoods, and more was stripped from them by the Mandalorians… their culture of conquest and iron.

"Eshan, at one point and probably several more before I was born, had been terrorized by the Mandalorians. Unfortunately, in my case, it also included Jedi and the Thyrsians." Her smile faded as Tenebris recognized the shift in her emotions and stood, arching his back in a stretch. His plump, round body pressed into her chest, purring rather loudly.

"Thrysus in the past had been in service to Eshan, my birth mother, Spencer Varanin ; she had strived hard for peace with all of the six sisters.

Unfortunately, they remained fractured; too many people wanted to rule them."

An annoyance, but something in the back of Quinn's mind she had always dreamed of.

"Golden Company… They worked with the Mandalorians and somehow managed to gain Jedi allies during the raid. Zealots… wanting to eradicate everything in their way…" Quinn carefully left out what they wanted to destroy — the last thing she needed was more assumptions against her. As much as she knew it couldn't be helped… no one understood the choices that were made for her.

"A Mandalorian… clad in golden beskar entered my room. He mocked me with his modulated voice, called me foul names, treated me less than an animal… an insect… a thing." Quinn stopped looking at them. She could still smell it, the burning scent of her room in flames.

"He burned everything, then I was cornered—" She stopped and shook her head, trying to remove herself from the dark memory.

"I was sent away, and when the Alliance had absorbed Eshan into their cloud of influence, I was banished from my home. When I did get permission to visit my family, I was treated like a criminal, checked, surveyed, and watched at all times."

She looked to Adelle, once more thankful that she had decided to not wear the beskar and that she had seen it appropriate to remove the skull from her wall.

"I have tried to represent the Mandalorian Empire to the best of my abilities. It… is difficult, especially with the Echani, who remember those times, to accept that they are now under the jurisdiction of the Mandalorian Empire. But we persevere."

Quinn again looked to Sibylla, nodding fully knowing what she meant with trust.

"My people and I are learning to trust the Mandalorians, and I'm fully aware of how trust is something earned, and proven — not freely given. I do not ask for the Jedi or the Republic to trust me outright."

Exhaling softly, she looked away and towards her lap once more.

"What I am asking… what I am hoping is that I am allowed to earn that trust… prove my intentions are for the good of the Echani people, for Mandalore, and I have no ill intent for the Republic…"

Quinn huffed softly as she smiled.

"I'm quite fond of Naboo… really. I've had some lovely experiences…" Quinn wouldn't elaborate, but it was something that she figured the other two could figure out. The girl wasn't complicated despite the plethora of chains and titles bound to her.

"Right for clarity, I'd like to address the altercation, but I do wish to think of potential issues that could arise. My concern is the Jedi Council; are they the type to act without evidence, or should I consider myself safe within the High Republic territory?"

Quinn shifted in her seat, her tlegs starting to tingle under the weight of the two creatures.

"I…" She started, trying to figure out a way to word this that didn't make her true intent obvious.

"I don't want to leave… I'd like to stay as long as possible; there are affairs I wish to attend to and have caught my interest."

On days like this, the Echani wished the light flush of red along the bridge of her nose could be hidden much more easily.

 

[Adelle Bastiel]

Tags: Sibylla Abrantes | Quinn Varanin

Sibylla and Quinn opened up about their traumatic experiences at the hands of Mandalorians. Adelle knew her chosen people had been quite bloodthirsty historically—Alor Skirata had made sure to teach her their history good and bad. These attacks had been discussed with neither pride nor shame but there had been something disapproving in Alor Skirata’s face.

Adelle could empathize with the younger politicians. The stories brought up memories of her own experiences with Mandalorians and their anti-Force crusaders. If anyone had told her even a year ago that she’d not just be fully integrated but representing them on the galactic political stage, she would’ve laughed and asked for whatever they were drinking. The irony was not lost on her.

Quinn’s face flushed as she spoke of her reasons for wanting to stay on Naboo. Adelle’s eyebrows rose the barest hint but she kept her surprise off her face. To her knowledge, Reina was not a resident of Naboo—in fact the redheaded mercenary had just become a full Mandalorian citizen at the same time Adelle had. But Quinn’s flush and the vague terminology implied encounters of a certain kind.

Well it was none of her business. What was her business was the treatment of Mandalorian diplomats.

Which brought Aether’s message to relevance.

“I think the issue may be more complicated than just addressing the confrontation separately from the Jedi Council’s concerns,” Adelle said at last. “The Mand’alor responded after I made my report to him and I think you should hear it, Sibylla.”

She pulled out her datapad and brought up the message, reading it aloud.

Ambassador Bastiel,

I cannot say I am surprised. Jedi are scorpions and Sith are serpents. It is in their nature to conduct themselves as such.

What does give me pause is that a Jedi, knowing Quinn's station, dared to stand against her. Has our contract with Naboo truly softened our image in their eyes? Was their damnation of the crucifixion truly fear? Or was it a mere stageplay for the politicians?

No matter. I trust in your abilities to handle this. Relay to the Chancellor that a repeat of this is not to occur, lest our relationship be strained.



Mand'alor the Iron

The implications hung heavy in the air as Adelle set the datapad down on the table next to the cup. She sat back, watching the tea steep in the hot water. Whether or not Quinn was a Sith, the fact remained that she was operating under the authority of the Mandalorian Empire as one of their diplomats and had abided all laws and conditions laid on her. More than that, she was considered family by Clan Verd. If anything else happened, it became personal to the Mand’alor.

“From his message, I gather that the Mand’alor wants boundaries and consequences drawn up for any possible future breaches of protocol,” Adelle said. She paused, looking for the right words. “They can’t act independently, not with this. The Jedi should pursue their concerns through the appropriate channels, which I’ll admit, I’m unsure of. I’m assuming it would require meeting with you or the High Chancellor or even both before those concerns are brought to me. What happens if they don’t? If they go ahead and take matters into their own hands? You know we can’t overlook it.”

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Adelle Bastiel Quinn Varanin

There was more than the words Quinn relayed. Even without the Force, Sibylla could glean that much from what went unsaid.

The more she listened, the more complex the galaxy became. Things were not as black and white as she had once believed. Sibylla still held firmly to her moral lines -- to what was right and wrong -- but there was an empathetic part of her that understood how deeply personal tragedy could color one's outlook, and every action that followed.

The more politicians, cultures, and powers she encountered beyond Naboo, the more she realized how small her home truly was. How delicate the galaxy had become. One thread pulled too sharply could unravel something catastrophic elsewhere.

A part of her, one she would not voice aloud, wondered how much of this could be blamed on the Force. Or whether, in the end, it was always the individual who bore responsibility.

And those in her position, in Adelle's, in Quinn's, were left to navigate the brackish mire of politics, hoping they could keep it from burning the very people they were sworn to protect.

Sibylla gave a slow nod in Quinn's direction, drawing in a quiet breath as her thoughts turned to the Jedi Council.

"I must confess, my familiarity with the Jedi Council is only partial," Sibylla began, "though from what I understand, they are… rather young."

She lifted a hand slightly, as if to amend her own statement.

"Not in years, of course -- though I suspect a few of their more recent appointments might qualify -- but young in formation. The Order, and its Council, are still in the delicate process of becoming what they intend to be. They are not yet what the New Jedi Order once was at the height of the Alliance, but rather something still gathering itself into shape."

It was not information that would be difficult to find, and therefore not something Sibylla considered secret.

"And like any institution in its infancy, I imagine there are… inevitable growing pains. Particularly when one considers the Republic has become something of a refuge for those Jedi who once called the Core their home."

Sibylla considered every interaction she had witnessed between the Jedi Order and the Royal Naboo Republic, and the Kingdom of Naboo before it.

"Even so, I cannot say that, in my experience, they are inclined toward action without reason. The Charter of Unity is quite explicit -- while the Jedi Order operates independently, and is recognized as both a religious body and a peacekeeping force, it is nonetheless bound to respect Republic law and the Charter itself."

She shook her head faintly, her confusion evident.

"Which is precisely why such an aggressive altercation strikes me as… uncharacteristic. The Jedi I have worked alongside in diplomatic and peacekeeping efforts have shown no such disposition. Still, I have requested clarification from our Jedi Senate Liaison and have arranged to raise the matter with the High Chancellor following this meeting."

Even so, Sibylla let out a soft exhale as she read what Adelle had relayed regarding the Mand'alor's statement. She understood how this would appear. She understood the tensions involved, especially with Aether's family now tangled within it.

"As for boundaries and consequences, I should think we are all in agreement that they warrant discussion," Sibylla said plainly, hazel eyes drifting from Adelle to Quinn. "Though I fear it would be rather improper to attempt such a conversation without inviting the Jedi Council to participate in it directly to understand expectations."

Then, at last, her gaze returned to Quinn.

"So, let us speak with candor as it is done on Mand'alor's War table. While I, and others, fully acknowledge your station as Queen of Eshan and Warden of Mandalore, and the diplomatic nature of your presence here… it would be disingenuous to pretend it will not invite scrutiny."

The words she spoke were not made to insult or make accusations, but to state the lay of the situation with clarity.

"The warrant may have been lifted under the Iron Accords, but memory is far less accommodating. There are those who recall Wielu quite vividly… and others who remember the title that was so freely attached to your name."

She took another breath and continued.

"And in light of recent events with the confirmed incursions of the Sith Covenant within Republic space, and the Moorjan incident that sprung a trap for Republic delegates, it is perhaps inevitable that such concerns remain fresh in the public mind."

Which meant paparazzi, politicians, Jedi, and perhaps citizens alike would turn their attention toward the blonde.

Sibylla could not ignore what had happened at Wielu. Quinn had nearly killed Aurelian. Mauve had shot Sibylla at point-blank range and would have died. Arris had nearly blown off Aurelian's head afterward. There was no denying that Black Sun had struck beneath the guise of the Bank of Nar Shaddaa, attempting to blockade Wielu and seize the world... and by all rights, Sibylla should have been as wary of Quinn as anyone else.

But some matters could not be held forever in the grip of grudge or anger. What Aurelian had revealed to her about that day meant there had been no truly innocent parties on Wielu.

From what Sibylla had gathered, and from the security feed, a Whiphid had struck first. Quinn had fought him and ended up bloody and unconscious on the ground. And while Sibylla could not know why Quinn had been there, there was no questioning the close tie between the Queen and Mauve, not when the Zeltron Vigo had reacted to Quinn's injuries with such raw emotion.

Nor could Sibylla ignore why Aurelian had used that bond as leverage to force Mauve and Black Sun to pull back.

Would Sibylla have done the same?

Once, she might have said no. Now, after seeing how Aether reacted to those who harmed Mandalorians under his care, after watching Ace throw himself into fanatic extremes to deal with the Sith, after seeing her own brothers attacked and injured...part of her wondered whether she would act differently.

Everyone had the potential to.

Which is why she offered a potential solution.

"When I first assumed the role of Ambassador to Mandalore, I found that titles alone did very little to persuade those already inclined toward wariness or doubt. It was not my title of Ambassador that earned the Elders and the Clans' trust, but the persistence and willingness to be involved in their terms, and to ask questions and answer them in turn." Sibylla said at last.

The Voice of Naboo's expression softened, and for a moment, a more informal tone edged her words as she gave more personal advice.

"So, it may be prudent for you to attend more official functions as Queen of Eshan and Warden of Mandalore, not merely as a political delegate, but as a person to be understood. And if it proves useful, with a representative of the Republic alongside you -- Myself, if needed. I can make introductions, field the more.... pointed inquiries, and serve as a bridge where one is required."

A faint, knowing look touched her features, and Sibylla thought back to what Quinn had revealed to her back on Moorja. That she was always all of her titles. That she couldn't just pick a side. Sibylla knew how that felt. And while she couldn't fully let go of the wariness she felt, especially in the wake of Ace's fall, there was part of Sibylla that recognized a bit of how Ace had felt to her back on Taris within Quinn. Not to mention Quinn had saved her life. She didn't have to. But she did. Which meant there was more to Quinn than met the eye.

That is why Sibylla was trying her best to turn what others would call stupidity into an olive branch. She had to try. She had to, at the very least, make the attempt to see who Quinn truly was.

To make that determination for herself.

"Not to shield you from scrutiny," she added finally lightly, "but to ensure that what is seen is not merely what others expect to find."

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Sibylla Abrantes //: Adelle Bastiel //:

The smallest and faintest little whine came from the back of Quinn's throat. Sibylla had laid it out perfectly with an understanding that Quinn hadn't fully wrapped her head around. It was a good thing that both of the women here seemed to be on her side. To think otherwise would only make the young Echani Queen spiral.

But, she whined only because of everything that Sibylla had suggested — Quinn was already doing. She had made sure to introduce herself as the Queen of Eshan, had ousted almost all black attire from her wardrobe, and, on top of it all, ensured visibility with the Mandalorian Empire. What more did she need to do? How many more times did she need to say her role?

Did she need to shout? Did she need to wear a sign on her shirt?

Everything boiled down to the sins of the past and whatever happened on Weilu. Even then, Quinn frowned at the memory of the greasy-haired King thinking he had won.

She wasn't even the one who struck first; she was brought into this because of him and because of Mauve. All Quinn wanted was to negotiate deals for her newly purchased private militia.

Annoying.

Quinn frowned and pouted at the conversation. It seemed she would have to do all the work… or continue it.

Though at the end of Sibylla's words… Quinn perked up. While hanging out with Sibylla didn't seem too bad, Quinn didn't want to subject herself to another round of questioning. The Nabooian noble was far too curious for her own good — though it made her very useful in situations such as this.

But also having Sibylla deflect and answer questions for her meant that Aurelian would have to tag along. The thought of hanging out with him for for any length of time made her stomach churn.

She thought quietly to someone probably just as suitable as Sibylla in this matter, but then she remembered how Dominic tried to comfort her and ease her turmoil with his suggestion of defection. No, for now Dominic can remain in space... far away from her.

Quinn shifted in her seat slightly, once more adjusting for the weight of the felines in her lap. She didn't look Sibylla in the face, nor did she make eye contact with Adelle.

"I have been doing that, I've done everything you've said… minus being seen with someone from the Republic…" She paused, her eyes looking about the room, trying to figure out how to ask her next question. Quinn already figured the answer — but it didn't hurt to ask. Sibylla was aware of the situation and of the individual she was going to ask about.

Quinn was curious if they had talked about what happened on Moorja… or what Quinn had said, or that she had mistaken her for the Jedi.

"I agree." She nodded, her eyes finally flickering towards Sibylla's. "I do think having someone from the Republic, someone well respected, would help aid my image with everyone here…"

She tilted her head, sheepishly, as if she were a schoolgirl talking with friends about her crush.

"Perhaps… They are Jedi? Ease both groups with one person?" Excitement beamed from her as she smiled widely.

"Do I have a choice as to who? Do you think Bastila would like to accompany me?"

 

[Adelle Bastiel]

Tags: Sibylla Abrantes | Quinn Varanin

Adelle’s brow furrowed slightly as Sibylla explained that the formation of the Jedi Order as it stood within the High Republic was recent, incredibly so. Even then, the altercation seemed out of the ordinary according to Sibylla. Adelle hoped it was: the confrontation had seemed uncomfortably similar to the Iorek situation that made Adelle leave her own Order. But she wasn’t here to execute Aether’s will based on hope.

The young Ambassador also brought up that it would be setting unfair expectations to create boundaries and rules without bringing the Council in on that discussion. Adelle couldn’t disagree but she doubted Aether would like the idea of the Jedi being present while the two governments discussed rules for their conduct. Adelle glanced at the tea she’d started not that long ago. The water looked barely stained.

Sibylla and Quinn discussed how best to overcome the shadow cast by the young Queen’s legacy as daughter of the Sith Empress. While Quinn had been doing what Sibylla initially suggested, it seemed the absence of explicit endorsement from a Republic representative made a key difference. Adelle crossed one arm over her chest, resting her other elbow on it and holding her chin and mouth as she stared at the wall ahead of her. That had the opportunity to make a difference. It certainly couldn’t hurt.

Quinn’s demeanor changed as she talked about potential candidates, mentioning that someone who was both Jedi and Republic might work best. She was practically radiant. Adelle’s eyebrows raised a little.

"Do I have a choice as to who? Do you think Bastila would like to accompany me?"

A name. Quinn had someone in mind already. Adelle kept her face carefully schooled into neutrality and she leaned forward to shift the teabag a little in the tea cup. There was a good chance this ‘Bastila’ was the 'affairs on Naboo' Quinn had talked about.

“Someone who’s both might work,” Adelle said, trying to bring some professionalism back into the conversation. She leaned back in her chair. “Depending on rank, if there’s a Jedi you’re comfortable with being around, I don’t see why we shouldn’t ask them. However, given the concerns, if the representative accompanying you is Jedi, they should be at least a Knight, or a Master. Experience teaches wisdom, and people trust at least the appearance of wisdom.”

Adelle ran a hand through her hair and scratched the back of her head. “Although that’s going to be a hard sell to Mandalorian leadership. Sibylla might be the best option here. The Mandalorians respect you, trust you, and you’ve earned respect as Voice in spite of how young you are. I know you’ve volunteered, but do you think there’s anyone else that could work? Options in case something pops up like illness or an emergency and the chosen representative can’t make it.”

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Interacting with: Adelle Bastiel Quinn Varanin
Items: x | x | x | x | x | x | x | x | x

For a moment, Sibylla said nothing, but in her mind, the young brunette couldn't help but notice the faint softening of her features. Of course it was Bastila. Not just any Jedi, but Bastila.

Once Sibylla's own handmaiden during a particularly tense period, a Padawan under Jedi Knight Reingard. Bright, earnest, and, unless Sibylla had become remarkably poor at reading people, someone whose interest in the Queen of Eshan had long ago drifted beyond simple friendship.

The thought drew the faintest flicker of amusement because there had been a time when Sibylla might have viewed such a situation with alarm, her mind raking over questions of impartiality as much as of duty.

Now, standing where she did with Aurelian, she found herself less certain that affection and responsibility were mutually exclusive. People were always eager to question judgment when it came to devotion. Sibylla knew all too well that the two could coexist, provided one possessed the discipline for it... granted, if she were being honest, it was a matter that was an ongoing lesson one was learning in the moment.

And certainly, there were aspects where she knew her love for the man had colored her perspective more than once. She had learned that lesson several times beyond just Aurelian. It was with Dominique, with Aether, with Ace....

At those wandering thoughts at how the young man who had been such a bright part of her life had tossed himself into the Core and its Dark path made Sibylla gnaw on her lip once more even as she drew in a slow breath.

Finally, she spoke.

"I am hardly one to presume what the Jedi Council would permit regarding assignments," she said. "But making one's case rarely harms anyone. Better to ask and be told no than spend months wondering whether the answer might have been yes."

It was then that a small smile managed to grace her lips. At least a measure of an idea came about then.

"In the meantime, I would encourage additional Eshani escorts," she recommended, her hazel eyes panning over briefly to Adelle.

"Not because Mandalorian security is lacking, but because optics matter. The more visible your own people are at your side, the clearer it becomes that you stand here first and foremost as Queen of Eshan."

It was a lesson Sibylla knew well herself, when she had been trying to prove herself to be more than just the Daughter of Abrantes. That she was her own person, in her own role, taking her duties seriously because she wanted to. Because she needed to for her own sake as much as for her people.

"If Bastila is someone whose presence would provide comfort and stability, then I see no harm in asking." Although there was no questioning, the slight pause of thought that came thereafter was her delicate brown brows furrowing in thought.

"Though Adelle is correct that experience carries weight, particularly among those already inclined toward skepticism." Then her expression softened as she looked back to Quinn.

"Regardless, Your Majesty, you will have me at your side." Sibylla told Quinn with quiet but unwavering assurance.

Aurelian may doubt Quinn and her intentions, and she couldn't blame him for his train of thought or his perspective, but Sibylla was trying her best to see the good in Quinn. To acknowledge that she was trying her best. No different than how Aurelian had himself.

An act that she wished Ace would be able to see in himself -- if at the very least, acknowledge the path he was going. It was one thing to try to dig oneself out of it, another to delude oneself on what exactly they were turning themself into.

"That much does not require anyone's permission."