Faction [RNR & Foundation] Restoring the Balance

[Kahne Porte]

"Alive, that's what counts, right?"

"How's Aiden?"

"For the most part." Kahne responded with a small smile as he nodded towards his friend. "And I'm not sure, I haven't seen him in a few days." The Jedi Master spoke as he took more notice to those that were there and those that began to walk in. Such as Briana Sal-Soren Vizion Trozky and Lossa Aureus Rook Merriex and Efret Farr

"Apologies for my late arrival,"

"I'm almost certain its not a problem Briana." Kahne said with a small chuckle given her current state. It didn't surprise him in the least that she was here today. Despite all wounds, weariness, pain.....she still stood strong. Not just for herself but for all of Naboo. Plus she was quite stubborn as well.....

A trait all Jedi seemed to share.

Lorn Reingard

 

[Mother Askani]

NABOO | FOUNDATION STAGING AREA | OBJ 1.
FOUNDATION

​

"Laws under oppressive regimes are just weapons of control. This fight is not just for liberation from the Dark Empire, but for the restoration of just governance and planetary sovereignty, even from bloated bureaucracies like the Alliance, that prioritize their own stability over much else." Gavan has connections within the legal system, mostly from his former life as a respected judicial figure. He maintains these ties as a means to subtly manipulate policy and keep the Foundation's legal position from being completely dismantled. "I understand freedom must be won through strategy as much as force. I'll work on undermining Imperial bureaucracy, securing diplomatic support, and ensuring that when the Dark Empire falls...we'll be ready." He said.

He's deeply respected within the Ivory Charter, but also seen as a realist among idealists. While younger members push for immediate rebellion, he advocates for careful strategy, leveraging law, diplomacy, and controlled disruptions to ensure their fight is not crushed too soon. He was world-weary but resolute. Though he's lost faith in grand institutions, he hasn't lost faith in the people who fight for justice. He carries himself with the bitterness of a man who has seen too much corruption, but also the determination of someone who refuses to surrender to it.

"Once this goes live-once the Imperial stronghold is broken...you'll have the momentum, but you won't be able to turn back. Are you ready for what comes next?" He spoke without addressing her directly, but he was.

"Or think about Romi Jade. If it's evil, she's fought it. She could be a queen just on general principle. But she's right over that horizon living under an abandoned irrigation facility, because that's how she centers herself in the authentic." - Jend-Ro Quill

"A Jedi's life is sacrifice..." she mused. "I've nothing left to lose. My entire life has been in service, I've fought the fight on countless worlds, every enemy you can imagine, but the hardest battle one will ever fight will be with one's self" She lurched back slowly.

"Change is always a challenge, and often hard for others to see who've seen nothing else. But it's in these moments where you get to show yourself how tough you are, how deep your love is, what it means to have dignity...so that you can truly be at peace, and live with yourself. I have sacrificed everything...to do one last good thing. That. was. my. calling." her head moved as she emphasized it end of it.

A beat.

"Johannes always had this way of making the impossible seem like just another step on the path—like the stars would shift just to meet him halfway. I see it in you too, Redbird. You've always had that same fire, the same impossible hope. Difference is, he believed the galaxy could be saved... and you? You know it has to be rebuilt. He'd be damn proud... but you already know that, don't you?"

"He knew who he married." she mocked. "We do what we can. I'm doing this to honor him, and protect Cortana, Lossa, Briana, and Kale. And everyone else who can't protect themselves."

-----

"What have I sacrificed? Everything..."
​

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Sibylla Abrantes

​

The sound of his boots squelching was becoming all too familiar. As Lysander pressed forward and glanced down, what he saw suggested that today might just be the last day he wore this pair. When he had chosen his outfit earlier, traversing through a swamp wasn't something he factored in.

His attention shifted away from the path ahead, meeting Sibyll's gaze as he felt the weight of her question. For just a few beats, he imagined that looking into his own eyes might be like viewing a storm of ambition and longing. Then, he returned his focus to the terrain before them. "Freedom," he started, the word falling from his lips in a way that surprised even him. Lysander knew the answer would need to be carefully chosen once more, not wishing to draw suspicion, or reveal the shadows that lurked beneath. Yet, part of him also wanted to spark the girl's interest enough to continue their discussion. "The kind of freedom that allows me to choose my own path. I don't want to just explore the galaxy, but to discover who I truly am."

Standing tall, his head remained high, but not in a way to suggest arrogance. His hands clasped in front of him; it was a display of his own court etiquette. The corners of his mouth then twitched into a faint smile. “Love,” he continued, “well, that would be the fuel that drives any pursuit. It brings meaning to the risks we take and the sacrifices we make. Without it, that freedom would feel rather empty.” His brow furrowed slightly, contemplating her question further. Putting everything that swirled in his heart into words wasn't an easy task. “To find the right balance between freedom, love, and duty. I guess that's how I would define living. I.. don’t want to be a pawn in someone else's game.”

Lysander hadn’t forgotten the girl’s comments just moments ago, already believing her opinions would not be easily swayed. It was another kind of balance to push that bit further without it leading to confrontation from a difference in views. "And I appreciate your perspective, Sibylla. Though, I think there's more to it than that." His tone suggested he was open to revisiting that topic. “What would you consider a well lived life?”

The details of the capital were slowly becoming visible, its beautiful architecture undeniable.

 

[Graham Deras]

"How did you become so good at this."

Graham glanced at the material to ensure that it was even enough before looking back to the small voice that had spoken to him. It belonged to a young child whom had a curious look about his face. "Well, I started working on this trade when I was younger. I became quite adept at it." The Jedi Knight spoke with a sweet smile as he looked over to the young girl. "I believe I'm better at this, than I am at being a Jedi."

"That's impossible!" She responded with a small giggle and shook her head quickly. It seemed her mind was completely made up on the choice. "Jedi are the best, they protect all that is good." The young Jedi couldn't help but laugh, as his smile and heart grew tenfold at those words. "You are a smart and bright young girl." She seemed to have wandered away from her parents as her name was called and her parents came through the bustle of people. "I gotta go, nice to meet you!"

Graham gave a small wave to the child and when he caught the glances of her parents he gave a small bow and went back to his work. "You too kid, you too."

 

[Shan]

Shan nodded for a moment. He had to figure out how to put his plan into words. It was something he had on his mind for a while. Even before he went to study to become a doctor, he had been wanting to build this orphanage. He had the idea for it, just needed to the funding and permission for it all.

"Yes. I plan on building an orphanage. On Onderon, I just need to get permission from an associate of mine there. Jenn Kryze, she's the Knight Commander of Onderon."

He couldn't think of a better planet to potentially look out for the orphanage as well. Shan couldn't imagine Jenn letting anything happen to the kids there. The Mandalorians could be good protectors...if they weren't out crusading and burning down the Galaxy. But not all of them were like that. Jenn had helped Shan realise that and get over his prejudices.

Dashiell NPC

 

[Altan]

|| RESTORING THE BALANCE ||
The Ashen Sun - Chapter 1

OUTFIT: x
TAG: Echo Athoth | Kalantha | Michael Angellus ​

THEED, NABOO

It didn’t take long until the soup is ready to be served. Ideally, it would take hours to let all the flavours soaked, but in a situation like this, where people are hungry and possibly haven’t eaten properly for a while, this should suffice. Altan serves the first batch, offering them his condolences and prayers for good fortune, before passing the task to one of his team members.

Not far away from his relief tent, he overheard a conversation about Shiraya Order, the Jedi order of Naboo and decided to check it out. Two Jedi that he assumes to be Padawans, and the Queen herself.

“Your Grace…” he greets in a monotone tone as he approaches the group, without any outright gestures. Coming from a nomadic society, his respect for a monarch is limited to the extent of how they serve their people and how the lead their people through hardship, no more, no less. “And you two must be Jedi…” he shifted his attention to the other two. “It’s an honor to help, I’m Jedi Master Altan, of the Jedi Coalition,” he introduced himself. There is no emotion in his words, no pride, yet also no sign of sorrow. He is just is, like how his peers would describe him. When he helps people, he feels at peace, nothing else.

“It’s good to see more Jedi rallying to help here.”​

​

 

[Michael Angellus]

​

Journal Entry:

Restoring the Balance
a Royal Naboo Republic story...​

"Here," ,,, "Go find a kid and make their day."

Is she trying to get rid of me? Did I say something wrong? Come on! I was just giving my comm-link to the Queen to talk to my mom! I mean, did I break some protocol or something? Come on!

Uhh okay? I feel like an idiot right now but… wait there was that little boy not far away. He was looking for his mom. I could help him for a second. Hey buddy. You okay?

“I can’t find my mommy.” Poor kid. I know what it’s like.

Your mom’s lost? Man. I hate when they do that, don’t you? I got a giggle! My stupid joke got a giggle. Let’s go find her. I’m “Michael”, what’s your name?

“Badi”

Do you know your mom’s name?

Aw man. He frowned. “No.”

Hey, that’s okay! She’s “mom”. Come with me! I’m pretty proud of this, I took his hand and we walked around making noise. Hey MA! Badi’s looking for you! Why’re you lost? He was giggling again. I’m pretty good at this! Then I saw her come running. She was pretty relieved. I get it.

See Badi, she wasn’t missing for long. If she gets lost again, you come find me, or someone like me, okay?

“Okay!” He smiled, it felt good.

Oh yeah, I forgot. Here. Something to munch on. His eyes lit up as he got his treat so all was good there. I made it back as this big bald guy showed up. I thought he was uncle Caltin for a moment, but… well… that wasn’t happening.

You were right about that kid, Echo, do we have any more?

“And you two must be Jedi…” he shifted his attention to the other two. “It’s an honor to help, I’m Jedi Master Altan, of the Jedi Coalition,”

This guy is huge. It’s an honor, sir.. Or Master… I’m still learning. Sorry. I have an uncle and a cousin who are both Jedi. Why did I say that? Why did I SAY THAT?


Kalantha | Echo Athoth | Altan | OPEN

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Interacting with Lysander von Ascania | closed

Sibylla's steps slowed, the squelch of swamp mud beneath her boots drawing a flicker of irritation across her otherwise composed features. She caught Lysander's gaze, noting the way he paused for some time before answering. Freedom. A simple word, but one that carried layers. She had spent enough time in the Senate chamber to know when someone was holding their cards close to the chest.

Her gaze flicked to his hands clasped neatly in front of him, a display of etiquette she recognized from her own upbringing. So, he knows how to play the game. Interesting. She wondered where he was from. Was he from Naboo?

"I'd say that's a very poetic answer for someone currently losing a battle with a swamp... so pardon my curiosity about your origins," she quipped, arching a delicate brow as another step sent his boots sinking a little deeper into the muck. But she studied him, genuinely curious now. "Is that how most Jedi think? That freedom and love are what truly matters in a well-lived life? That seems… at odds with everything I've read about them." A wry smile tugged at the corner of her lips.

But her teasing softened as she considered his words. Freedom. Love. Duty. He'd spoken of them with conviction, as though they were coordinates guiding him toward some greater purpose. Yet, she had been raised to know that ideals could be fleeting, and conviction, however noble, could be easily manipulated. Which is why she could understand the desire to not end up being a pawn in someone else's game.

"The Queens of Naboo have always been taught that their lives are in service to something greater than themselves. Love is a luxury, freedom is conditional, but duty?" Her expression grew more thoughtful. "Duty is the foundation. It's what makes everything else possible."

She let the moment settle before giving a more thoughtful reply on her own definition, "A well-lived life?" Sibylla echoed, tilting her head slightly. "To me, it's about impact. About knowing that my time...however long or short, meant something. That at the end of mine, I want to be able to say I mattered. That I left something behind worth remembering."

The capital was now fully in sight, its grand architecture rising in the distance. She sighed in relief.

"Speaking of duty, ours is to make sure we actually reach Theed before we get swallowed whole by this swamp. Come along, Lysander. Before I have to draft an official report about the Padawan who met his end in a particularly aggressive puddle."

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Sibylla Abrantes

His hands remained clasped, composure firm even amidst the murky embrace surrounding them. Having been exposed to the complexities of courtly politics long before his journey as a Jedi began, honesty was a language that Lysander could appreciate. "I’m from Ukatis," the Padawan stated simply. Given how underdeveloped the planet was, his past seemed to stir pity from outsiders, a feeling he wasn’t keen on entertaining. "Jedi are taught to value peace and compassion above anything else. But.. I also believe strength and survival are important. Our galaxy is a harsh place.. ideals might not be enough.”

A flicker, faint but enigmatic, passed through the depths of his gaze; memories of his sister flashed, vivid, and clouded by thoughts of his upcoming journey. “And sometimes, you have to make difficult choices to protect what you care about.”

Amidst the humidity he listened intently, a hint of a smile tracing his lips. "You’re right; direction and purpose are like.. pillars that give meaning. Duty without something greater, however, just sounds like obligation." Unlike the girl, he seemed unbothered by the swamp's atmosphere. Thoughts of claiming two lives earlier still weighed heavily on him, but he found himself drawn into the conversation, perhaps even distracted by it, far more than he would like to admit.

There was another portion to the answer, but he waited, focusing his attention to the capital as it drew closer. With grace, a hand lifted, his thumb wiping a bead of sweat from his brow, ignoring the last jab. Instead, he sighed through his nose, a mix of both frustration and curiosity battling in his mind. The noise of Theed slowly began to return.

Gone were the sounds of attacks and explosions, along with shadows once casted by Mandalorian ships. What he did sense however was a blend of emotions radiating through the city: anxiety, fear, and hope. Fortunately, there was that of relief too. Lysander was simply comforted to see Naboo's capital pulsing with life.

“I think pursuing a legacy is great,” he finally said. The tone was warm, but also thoughtful. “But hopefully you don’t miss out on enjoying some of the simpler moments along the way.”

Before relocating to Coruscant years back, his life was threatened to be shaped by burdens of the past.

The corners of his mouth danced with playful tug. "I could lend my hand with that, you know," he offered, the words dripping with lightheartedness. "Besides, it's an area I'm quite skilled in.. I've always been great at creating distractions."

They were now under the regal arches of the city. “I have a feeling we wouldn’t agree on much, but at least it would be entertaining.” His mind shifted to another matter. “I’m actually leaving Naboo in a few days for an extended period. But the offer still stands.”

The commlink remained oddly quiet, and he recalled the girl's need to contact her House and the Representative Assembly. Until he received guidance or some sort of update, he would continue strolling along next to Sibylla.

 

[Mother Askani]

NABOO | FOUNDATION STAGING AREA | OBJ 1.
FOUNDATION

​

"You plan to protect each of them from this silo?" He asked, referring to Cortana, Briana, Lossa, and Kale.

"I've been a lot closer than they realize. They won't like it of course-but its their time to choose their own paths. I couldn't willingly drag them into this, because I knew they'd follow. It'd have to be of their own choosing...because they saw something and stood for it or against it. And I know they'd look after Cortana. This was the only way I could think of...given the circumstances at the time; to protect them and catalyze something inside them." she responded.

Choices, and their broader implications.

He sighed, because they'd already taken these steps. Both slipped into a moment of silence, a pondering of sorts, and it was on a wavelength they both shared.

He was the one to break it, "Well, there's one more thing... you know you don't fight a war just to trade one master for another. If the Foundation wants to win, it needs more than firepower..." he lead on, "One of the Charter's Tynnan associates picked up some intel along the Koros Trunk Line...there's a rather peculiar professor at the Rigovian Technical University sources say, studying some type of new science that combines history, psychology, and mathematical statistics, supposedly it uses probability and historical analysis to predict trends and patterns within large social groups....even rumors of predicting the rise and fall of civilizations."

It piqued her interest, she hadn't known of or ever heard of anything like this amongst her Selabite colleagues and resources, or the Eremite Anchorites, granted she hadn't met all of the former. So maybe it wasn't related to the Force...but then again, one could never know for sure.

"I've never heard of it...anywhere." her thoughts trailed off at the end.

"Perhaps its something to look into, there's a lot of wacky rumors around it when I took a glance to gather this for you, but-" He shook his head, "You'd be able to determine that better than I."

Hmm, "Maybe. We've gotta help the people here first. But I'll cross reference it where I can, when I can."

"Well, I must return to Teta. I have work to do if this is to be our plan." He pulled his hood up and over. "For tomorrow's victory."

"For tomorrow's victory."

For they both transformed once again back into their respective forms.

-----

"What have I sacrificed? Everything..."
​

 

[Rook Merriex]

​

Location: Theed, Naboo
Tags: Briana Sal-Soren | Efret Farr | Kahne Porte | Lorn Reingard | Lossa Aureus

​

The fresh mountain air on the Gallo was the most invigorating thing Rook had experienced in years. She remembered the way her elders would drone on about how important it was to slow down and enjoy nature, but until she’d been devoid of such a simple thing, she never really appreciated it. Now though, as she was marched through the mountains to Shiraya’s Rest, she couldn’t help but take in every detail. The crispness of the air soothed her scarred lungs and the sights eased her busy mind. Rook could hear so many sounds at once, everything from buzzing insects and tiny mountain creatures to the crunching of stone beneath her boots and the distant roll of a spring.

It was almost enough to convince her never to return to the Netherworld again. Never to risk being trapped on the other side. But the thought of others being stuck there, stripped from their lives and distanced from all the wonderful stimuli she was experiencing, made her stand steady in her mind. She would help however she could.

Rook was beginning to feel her nerves creeping up on her as they entered the Vanguard headquarters. The sensation of eyes following her was still just as haunting when they were human, and the feeling of their distrust only made things worse. Rook couldn’t blame them. She was a stranger in their midst, one who’d dropped in from the very realm where their friends and family were now imprisoned. Her involvement and knowledge of their captivity had been questioned since she arrived, but Brandyn Sal-Soren’s protection kept her (mostly) safe from scrutiny.

Now that he was away, she would have to defend herself.

“I’m Rook,” she self-introduced when she’d finally made it to the chambers where the Jedi Council members were meeting. She recognized Briana Sal-Soren at once, but the others were strangers.

 

[Dashiell NPC]

"Yes. I plan on building an orphanage. On Onderon, I just need to get permission from an associate of mine there. Jenn Kryze, she's the Knight Commander of Onderon."

Doctor Waymire listened, nodding along as Jedi Knight Shan spoke. The planet itself struck the doctor curious. He tried to remember if there was some type of Jedi connection to the planet. Considering he wasn't a Jedi he wasn't completely familiar with their movements or buildings. Obviously due to his humanitarian work he kept abreast of some things.

"Why Onderon if I may ask? Personal connection? Are you from there? Or is it more of a logistical consideration?"

Waymire was leading them away from the construction of the 'pop-up' medical facilities, the area a bit too noisy to have a proper conversation.

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Interacting with Lysander von Ascania | closed

Sibylla blinked, processing the name of his homeworld.

“Ukatis?" Her frown deepened in contemplation. "Is that in the Mid Rim or Expansion Regions?" She paused, scanning her mental archive of political maps and trade routes. Nothing prominent surfaced. If it wasn't a major player in galactic affairs, that explained why she hadn't encountered it before. Still, she committed the name to memory as every world had its significance, even the ones that didn't make Senate reports.

His words, however, held more weight than the unfamiliar planet. Peace and compassion above all else. The idealism of the Jedi was well known, but hearing him tack on strength and survival?That made her glance at him more closely. There was something unspoken behind those words, something shaped by experience rather than just philosophy. She didn't pry, though she was tempted.

"Well," she started, brushing a damp strand of hair from her temple, "at least we agree the galaxy isn't kind." Her tone remained composed, professional even, but there was an undertone of something sharper. Experience. She had seen the Senate chambers filled with leaders who spoke of unity while hoarding power. Had watched city states suffer under indecision and bureaucracy.

"Ideas aren't enough," she agreed, softer this time. "Not on their own. A good leader has to know how to wield them…when to compromise, when to stand firm. Otherwise, you're just reciting poetry while the galaxy burns."

She exhaled, focusing back on Theed as it welcomed them with its elegant spires and sweeping bridges. The city was still standing, still breathing. That was something. Even from here, she could sense the aftermath of the attack in the charged atmosphere. Yet people endured. Her people. That was what mattered.

Lysander's comment about duty without something greater made her glance at him again, her lips twitching.

"Oh, I don't know. Duty alone can be quite rewarding. Endless meetings, negotiation deadlocks, the occasional assassination attempt … what's not to love?" Her dry humor slipped through before she straightened, the mask of nobility sliding back into place. "Legacy isn't just about the grand gestures. It's in the small choices too. You don't always realize what matters until it's history."

Then, his next remark caught her off guard. He was leaving? It wasn't surprising as it seemed that Jedi were transient by nature, but the offer he made was unexpected. Her gaze flickered with something unreadable before settling back into its usual measured composure.

"A Jedi skilled in distractions? Now that's a dangerous combination." She allowed herself a smirk before tilting her head slightly, considering.

"As for your offer…" She exhaled, as if weighing something unseen.

"Well it appears I am in need of a guard… regardless of what the assembly may require of me in the next few days I'll need the additional security. Who knows if another Mandalorian will need a Shiraya Lily pot tossed to his head."

 

[Kalantha]

Restoring the Balance
a Royal Naboo Republic story...

​

A large part of the Jedi’s reception was owed to their conflation with Naboo’s moon goddess, Shiraya. Much like the widespread reverence of Ashla, originating from Tython’s moon of the same name as Kalantha understood it, the Shirayan faith was intrinsically linked with the Force, and by extension the Jedi. While they were by no means tools of faith, they were often viewed as symbols of the moon goddess’s power and will. After all, how could one not personify Shiraya in those who wield unearthly powers?

Kalantha smiled as she saw a more important ability than the Force exemplified: compassion. Echo Athoth passed one of the fruits to Michael Angellus and encouraged him to pass it to a citizen in need. Not to get rid of him, as he might have assumed based on Echo’s notorious tone, but to show him that even something as small as a pear could make a world of difference.

She was then approached by Altan with the Foundation, who came from one of the relief stations she’d pointed out to Echo. “We’re incredibly grateful for the Foundation’s support, Master Altan,” the queen said graciously. She was neither blind to their value nor too proud to thank them for it. Monarchs were all too often uncomfortable with acknowledging that they cannot do everything all at once, but Kalantha was more than willing to accept help when she needed it and give praise for good deeds.

Tags: Echo Athoth | Michael Angellus | Altan​

 

[Michael Angellus]

​

Journal Entry:

Restoring the Balance
a Royal Naboo Republic story...​

Okay, it was starting to come together here. It feels good to be able to be out here and help. I mean, all I did was help a little kid find his mom, but that was important to him, not to mention the pear. He is still munching on that. Then a surprise! A cool surprise! Auntie Chrysa! Weird, I usually get a feeling she is around when she is, but not this time? It didn’t matter. She was here, and she gets a hug!

You’re here! She wasn’t alone either as she brought people with her who brought supplies, food, and all sorts of cool stuff. This was her thing though, she had a knack for showing up at the right time.

Everyone, this is my aunt, Chrysothemis Atreides Vanagor. She is Master Vanagor’s widow. I hate name dropping, or airing dirty l… wait… she whispered something. REALLY??? DID SHE JUST? This just made my month! SHE GETS ANOTHER HUG!

Yeah, never mind that last “widow” part. That isn’t the case anymore.


Kalantha | Echo Athoth | Altan | OPEN

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Sibylla Abrantes

​

Her dry humor was met with a hint of amusement, but also restraint. There was a subtle twitch at the corner of the boy’s lips. At the very least, her words seemed to make him forget about the responsibilities carried here on Naboo, those he was ready to be free from. His curiosity sparked a bit, wondering if her role here in Theed carried any excitement, or if it was simply the daily grind of court life. It was a role he had witnessed from the front row for years back on Ukatis.

But as she continued, speaking of legacy with nuanced understanding, he became thoughtful. While agreeing, he shook his head slightly, as if dismissing her idea, and holding onto a few of the words while she continued. He was plenty capable of countering any point, and he would once more soon.

Turning his attention to one side, he saw the shattered windows from some of the stores. Theed’s wounds weren’t only a weight upon the shoulders, but in the air, too. During his time on Naboo alone, he experienced several attacks and couldn't help but wonder what made them such a vulnerable target. He refused to believe it was only for wealth and valuable resources. For Lysander, it hinted at their fragility, and it proved their defenses that had been tested, were still vulnerable.

His emerald orbs reflected the sunlight pouring down on them. The Padawan’s thoughts became sharply focused on what she was saying. “I assure you,” he started, his voice steady, “that I would be better than the others for the job.” His demeanor was a mix of calm, but also contemplation for a short time; he understood how predictable the Jedi could be, and he was anything but that.

"And sure," he continued lightly, almost mischievously, “I’ll make sure you’re safe." A spontaneous smile flashed across his face. Beneath the calm exterior, a glimmer of his playful spirit was awakening. "And if you ask nicely, I might even get you caf.”

Shaking his head next, a hand suddenly raised in a dismissive manner. "But don’t start thinking I’m some sort of protocol droid," he added, his expression serious, but mirth was evident in his tone. "I won’t have it.” Sure, he could be a guardian, but he also knew how to be a companion and actually enjoy life. And in truth, Lysander did feel like he owed her a favor; after all, she did save his life earlier.

As they rounded another corner, the Royal Palace came into view. “You know what? I don’t think you'll be able to handle a few days of me now that I think on it. But I guess it’ll be a good way to test your perseverance. So.. where do you need to go first? You said you needed to contact your House and the Representative Assembly earlier.”

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Interacting with Lysander von Ascania | closed

Lysander spoke with an easy confidence that Sibylla was familiar with -- the kind that could either be reassuring or reckless, depending on how much trust one was willing to give. Better than the others for the job. She studied him, searching for whether that was arrogance or simple truth. Perhaps both.

"Well, I suppose caf would at least make our conversations all the more stimulating," she replied as Sibylla exhaled through her nose, making a quiet sound that was a mix of amusement and mild irony.

"Thank you. I appreciate the offer of protection," she thanked him genuinely with measured grace, though her lips twitched. However, his next words, teasing as they were, earned a sidelong glance.

"Handle you?" she echoed, arching a brow. "That's optimistic of you to assume you'd be a challenge. I've spent years navigating senators twice your age and just as determined to test my patience. "

Her gaze flicked from Lysander to the royal palace, assessing once more. Even from this distance once could see the damage the Mandalorians had delt it. Her lips pursed into a thin line.

"I should have known that there would be marauders out there just waiting to take advantage of the galactic chaos to attack us. Naboo seems to just be a tempting jewel poised for the slaughter... no more." Sibylla murmured to herself, a flash of determination igniting her eyes.

This attack, seeing the damage first hand, those affected, was starting to light a fire in her breast.

"Come. Let's see what could be done and where we are needed." A rush of energy filled her with purpose then, although it could not hide the faint smirk that graced her lips.

"And perhaps I might find that meal you so desired earlier as recompense for your trouble, Padawan Lysander."

 

[Echo Athoth]

Theed
Tags: Michael Angellus , Kalantha , Altan

Echo Athoth's Locket, Epo-1 Interceptor, BB-055TN "Boston"
​

You were right about that kid, Echo, do we have any more?

"Of course," Echo nodded, passing Michael more fruit. "There's plenty more."

Echo tilted her head and adjusted her glasses to observe the new arrivals. One was a representative of the Foundation. Perhaps a face she'd see more given their charitable relationship with the Naboo. The other was introduced as Caltin Vanagor 's widow. Had something happened? Wait, no. Everything seemed to be fine actually.

Fortunate news, hopefully. She had only interacted briefly with the large Master on Hapes, but he certainly seemed a driving force for good in the Galaxy.

"It's a pleasure to meet you both," the Ogemite greeted. "I am Knight Echo Athoth. The Jedi of the Sanctuary of Shiraya have brought me on for archival assistance. I'm sure we'll see more of each other. I've... already gotten some exposure to the work of your Foundation on Hapes. I'm most curious to see how your organization develops."

Groups like them had a tendency to burn bright. If not fanned, however, bright flames could extinguish just as quickly. For the good of order in the Galaxy, Echo hoped their trajectory was one of longevity.

People certainly needed it.

 

[Vizion Trozky]

THE LONG ROAD AHEAD
SHIRAYA'S REST ☛ GALLO MOUNTAINS ☛ NABOO

​

Vizion only truly knew or was acquainted with half of the people here, but that was just an effect of who he was as a Jedi, as a Sentinel, rather than any sort of antisocial behaviour. He didn’t reside in the temple, instead setting himself up down the mountain, where he was closer to the people.

Most attempts to get to know the other members of the Council were either crossed with missions and other gatherings, or deliberate in nature, and outside of the recent attack, he had been continuing in re-familiarizing himself with Theed and other locales outside of it where he’d spent much of the first eight years of his life, and time that he hadn’t been off on missions, or on Ossus, with his Master. The first Cataclysm had changed much, and he hadn’t truly returned until a little while before the Life Day that had just passed.

He kept to himself as others arrived following him, perusing a dataslate while they conversed, at least until Briana arrived. At first, he flicked a glance up at her from where he was seated, as he had with others, only to return to his reading. Then he suddenly looked up again, driven by the urge to question what she was even doing here in her state… but thought better of it and simply swallowed his questions, lowering the slate as he realised she was staring.

He’d wanted to check up on her, but with the recent attack, and her not being the only one to have suffered injuries… well, it was more than that he’d had to put on hold. The dataslate was laid on the stone table - the reading for his own professional development, one of those things he’d had to slow down on, due to other responsibilities.

"Apologies for my late arrival."

A faint sigh issued from his nose. Now wasn't the time... but he'd make the time, after this.

"Saves me sending you the notes," he said, standing up from his seat - he wouldn't have minded going to the trouble - as his attention turned to the next speaker. "Hello, Rook," he replied, "I am Knight Vizion Trozky," then he indicated others in turn as he introduced them, but kept his attention turned to Rook the whole time, "this is Master Kahne Porte, Knight Lorn Reingard, Knight Lossa Aureus," then his gold-flecked gaze shifted to the woman that had arrived with Rook, his head following, "and you must be our other guest; welcome, Master Farr, and thank you for accepting our invitation."

He withdrew his arm, and tented both hands on the tabletop.

"Now that we're all here, let's get started."

Kahne Porte • Lorn Reingard • Briana Sal-Soren • Lossa Aureus • Efret Farr • Rook Merriex​

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Sibylla Abrantes ​

Lysander was anything but blind as she studied him. Skepticism seemed to flicker on the faces of many he dealt with on a day to day basic. Her comment about the caf caused a snicker to erupt, tugging at the corners of his mouth. But it was followed by a challenge, which only encouraged the slight tilt of his chin, a physical manifestation of his spirit.

“Yeah? Well.. age doesn’t really mean anything,” he retorted, his voice remaining calm. “I mean, obviously experience is valuable, but I’m going to surprise you. Don’t you worry, Sibylla. Over the next few days, I’ll offer some new perspectives.” The Padawan was certain it could’ve been viewed as arrogance, but the words fell from his lips effortlessly, nonetheless.

Shortly after, he could feel the tension in the air. While some of the words were barely audible, he thought they hinted at self blame and vulnerability. Whatever it was, Lysander didn’t enjoy seeing it. The idea of pursuing their little intellectual spar would have to wait. Besides, there would be plenty of time to argue for the sake of argument later; he was certain of it.

A pang of empathy stirred within. From his own training, he understood that moments of weakness often paved the way for strength to be forged, regardless of which side of the Force one resided on.

“It’s impossible to predict every threat, you know” he started. “But.. it wouldn't be easy for me to watch my home suffer either.”

One thing he understood was that even the toughest materials, such as durasteel, could be softened with kindness. He had plenty of experience dealing with such from his sister, given how often he crossed the line. As long as he wasn't up against Beskar, he figured he had a fair shot.

Casting a sidelong glance, he navigated through his brain for a thoughtful compliment. But then he recalled the words of a tradeswoman he knew: apparently, they had to be honest, too.

After a short pause, he finally broke the silence with a warm smile. "Hmm. You know, you strike me as kind of stubborn, but I can endorse you for that," he said. The tone was a blend of lightheadedness and sincerity. “And maybe your stubbornness will be what helps Naboo see this through!”

Realizing his words hadn't quite matched the way they sounded in his mind, he quickly shifted gears. “As long as the place has good desserts. And maybe something both of us could enjoy.”

When they finally arrived at the palace, security forces were strategically placed throughout the surrounding streets. Tents lined some areas, serving as sanctuary for the wounded.