Private The Ladies Who Lunch | Invite

[Natasi Fortan]

It was an early spring day in New Sterandel, which came with its own set of challenges. The snows -- typically mild over the winter -- were quite gone by now, but that did not guarantee a nice day. As the clock climbed toward midday, the morning was on the cooler side, though the skies were mostly clear. High, wispy clouds were no threat at all -- rows and flows of angel hair, as it were, not there to rain and snow on everyone. But since it was cool and probably not comfortable to sit outside for very long, Natasi had instructed the luncheon to be served indoors, in her private dining room at the Palace in New Sterandel. The relatively small, dark-paneled room was a statement of Natasi's style ethos: generally clean lines and simple, but of such immaculate quality one simply knew it had to cost the earth. Galidraani in style, with subtle art deco decorative elements, it featured dark walnut furnishings with deep navy damask cushions on the chairs. Unlike the state dining room, which featured a broad, rectangular table that could comfortable seat two hundred, the table here was small and round, suitable for no more than six and that was at a push.

Natasi entered the room and pulled the damask curtains back from the windows, looking out into the garden anxiously. There were high walls there -- for protection more than for the prevention of escape, but given who her luncheon guests were today, she had to wonder if being indoors at all was the right move. Perhaps a marquee out on the bluffs... well, they could arrange space heaters, couldn't they? It was 900 ABY, anything was possible.

"Your Majesty," a voice intoned from behind her, and Natasi half-turned to see Kenat, her aide, standing there. "The spaceport has sent a message that your visitors have arrived. Your speeder is standing by to bring them here."

Natasi swallowed and nodded. "Very good." Too late, then, to change the venue. Well, she would just have to hope that the Alor trusted her enough not to suspect her of nefarious motives.

This would have been simpler at Suffolk House, but Natasi knew that Dyrn -- the Duke of Suffolk, the owner of the estate, and her betrothed -- would have been furious to learn the woman that had apprehended Natasi so brutally had darkened the doorstep there. Natasi was quite willing to find a way past the transgressions of her shared past with the Alor -- the whole point of today's luncheon -- but she suspected that darling Dyrn never could. When he died, they would find it carved upon his heart. Natasi felt a throb of affection for her beloved guardsman, her eyes darting to the platinum picture frame on the sidebard that had a picture of the pair of them together -- Natasi wrapped in a large towel for modesty, her hair slicked back and wet, with Dyrn standing behind her in fashionable swim trunks, back straight, one hand on his hip, the other on her shoulder. Both beaming into the lens, looking relaxed. Happier times. Öetrago.

Kenat cleared his throat. "Mr. Demarche wanted me to confirm with you the timing of the luncheon, ma'am. He says if there are any changes he will need to know before midday so as to adjust the timing."

"I understand," said Natasi. "You may tell him that the schedule is fixed. Whether anyone will want to eat anything is out of my hands, but it would be impolite to bring them all this way and not offer them refreshments. Did you check with the housekeeper?"

"Yes, ma'am," said Kenat. "There are suites made up for their usage, and additional rooms should they have brought an entourage."

"And -- food for their entourage?"

"Yes," said Kenat simply.

Natasi knew it was foolish to ask. The staff here didn't make it a habit to ignore her instructions, nor to overlook the details of her requests. She smiled at Kenat and nodded. "Very good. I'm going to finish up in here and then I'll be in my study. Do come and find me when they arrive. And, I suppose, let me know if there is some problem. Perhaps they won't want to use the limousine and would rather walk or fly or jetpack." Kenat departed and the Supreme Leader turned back toward the windows. Between them sat a sideboard with wine, water, and other beverages selected to pair with the menu, and a large bowl of white roses. She plucked a curling leaf from one of the buds, crushing it in her palm, before turning to the dining table. Neither head nor foot, no one seated higher or lower than anyone else. Egalitarian. The china was from the Vitalis collection, a respectable service: white with platinum rims, simple but quality. Crystal glasses and polished silver utensils finished the look.

Good, Natasi thought. She paused in the doorway to adjust the lighting from the panel there, then left. It wouldn't be long now.

She only hoped that the Alor didn't come in beskar'gam; it would rather clash with the decor.

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Wedding Ring

"You two aren't going to be at each other's throats anymore, right?" Valery asked, her tone subtly teasing while she looked at Jenn Kryze from the corners of her eyes. Valery had read the reports and heard about their history, so she could only imagine the kind of tension that potentially lingered. But that's why she was here, right? To mediate a conversation between them over lunch. Perhaps it was strange she arrived with the Mandalorian, rather than the Alliance senator, but it made no real difference. They were both wanting to settle the dispute, and she'd help to accomplish it.

"I think that's our ride," Valery mused when the limousine approached.

Valery was no stranger to overly fancy parties, grand palaces and the enormous wealth one could find in particular places across the Galaxy, but it never made her feel at ease. Having grown up at a Jedi Temple built on a hill within a dangerous Jungle, she was used to simplicity and living with nature around her. Not marble and gold.

Still, she had done her best to look presentable — no Jedi tunic, and no weapons strapped to her belt this time. Instead, she wore a modest dress and some black heels to top off her look. She had curled the ends of her bangs and ponytail and applied just a touch of make-up.

Hopefully, it wasn't not too much for this lunch date.

Once the limousine pulled over a minute later, Valery waited for the door to be opened and raised her hand, allowing her friend to get seated first. Valery stepped inside afterward and made herself comfortable, crossing one leg over the other, "Is there anything I should know before we arrive? I actually don't know Ms. Fortan that well."

Natasi Fortan Jenn Kryze ​

 

[Jenn Kryze]

​

| Location | New Sterandel
| Objective | Make peace

"So, let me get this straight. You're answering the invitation of an Imperial you've been receiving letters from periodically, without beskar'gam or beskad, and I don't get to rib you a little about your outfit?"

Jenn let out a groan as Karrys' voice filtered in through the headset she wore, dragging a hand over her features. The brash pilot was, as ever, enjoying her privileged position as one of the Alor's oldest friends, poking fun at the rather novel sight of the larger-than-life figure wearing a tailored suit. It was all good-natured, of course, and came from a genuine desire to defuse the tension: some in the Clan called such a tactic deflection, but most cherished the light-heartedness Karrys could inject in a situation! And those who underestimated her because of her flippant, happy-go-lucky persona were quick to be reminded that the pilot was a member of the illustrious Nite Owls for a reason.

"I mean, don't get me wrong, expanding your horizons is great and all, but I think you looked better in that dress you wore for that gala on Naboo. Hey, speaking of which, you don't mind if I go and sample the local culture, right?"

Evidently, the Alor's pointed silence was not taken as a sign that she should stop talking, and so Karrys kept on happily chatting about that topic often neglected among Clan Kryze, in no small part because of Jenn's own disinterest for the matter: fashion and class. Expressing one's self through the armor they wore was celebrated, to be sure, but those who chose under the wise gaze of the owl cared little for what most in the Galaxy regarded as normalcy. Even when performing cloak and dagger type operations, they favored ample cloaks thrown over their armor, rather than dressing up in casual clothes.

Not that there was anything casual about Jenn's attire, really. After taking a first, hesitant step in the exploration of her own femininity at the gala, the siren found herself somewhat frustrated by the realization that she was even more confused than ever before - not to mention how anxious she felt about walking the fine line between refined and gaudy. Careful not to appear too pompous, she thus opted for something a little less elegant than her previous choice of attire. Stepping foot within the monarch's domain wearing beskar would not be a step towards peace and cordial resolution, given her initial encounter with her, so she opted for a fashionable three-piece suit. Nothing pretentious.

"Just try not to get yourself in trouble", Jenn finally answered with a sigh, stepping off the humble dropship as it reached its destination.

"Trouble? Me? Honestly, Jenn, I'm hurt."

"What you are, Karrys, is a little shit with insatiable appetites. This is a diplomatic mission. Please, for all that is sacred, don't make me have to go look for you in the drunk tank?"

"Please, as if. We both know I'd charm the warden and get myself free."

And with that, Karrys stretched, hopped out of the cockpit, and walked off to experience all that the local culture had to offer. Jenn could not afford to worry about what sort of trouble a lone Mandalorian with unbridled confidence could get up to: she had diplomacy to attend to, it seemed, a task that remained daunting no matter how often she was forced to partake in it. No matter how often she conducted delicate exchanges, the woman found herself desperate to return to the simple certainty of the forge, left to her own devices by others while working beskar and other alloys into formidable weapons of war or legendary pieces of armor. Not to mention how strongly the ocean called to her, invoking a yearning she could neither numb nor sate.

All in all, Valery was a welcome sight indeed! Ever since she took the mantle of Alor for herself, Jenn was left with precious little time for herself - and, alas, she knew that many among the Clan resented the Jedi still, with some outright questioning the wisdom behind their leader's friendship with the Grandmaster of the New Jedi Order. Mindful as she was of such a dangerous friendship to maintain, Jenn refused to compromise on the bond she shared with the noble warrior. Greeting her friend with a warm smile, she answered her with a roll of her eyes and a chuckle. "Oh, not to worry. I think she and I are all too happy to leave all of that behind us", remarked the Mandalorian with a nod.

Noting her friend's modest, but no less suitable appearance, she found herself looking down at herself after entering the limousine, her self-consciousness all too obvious before someone who knew her so well. Baring her face like this was still difficult on most days, after all, and with the brutal fighting on Onderon still fresh on her mind and body, her body sported new scars. Formidable a warrior as she may be, she was all but powerless when a Sith unleashed Force Lightning upon her, leaving her writhing in agony on the ground of the palace's courtyard... and the memory still burned shamefully in her mind.

"Lady Fortan carries herself with all of the - well, the aura you would expect from royalty. But she's not unreasonable! We've had a... correspondence, since the gala on Naboo. We met by sheer happenstance, and things went from there, I suppose? I figured there might be a chance to make up for my crimes without being thrown in a cell. All in all, I think she is receptive to honesty."

​

Valery Noble Natasi Fortan ​

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi stood in her study, her dark eyes taking in the reflection. She had changed into a tailored black suit, replete with ivory blouse and subtle gold buttons. She did not look, necessarily, monarchical, nor was it her intent. But that which she was, she was. She could no more easily appear at a luncheon in dungarees and a flannel than she could flap her wings and fly back home to Galidraan (and the reasons for both were as numerous as each other). Still -- no crown jewels, that had to be seen as a concession, nor was she overly dressed. A simple Englightened Balance pendant, the bracelet Dyrn had fashioned for her, and a simple engagement ring.

There was no need to flaunt anything here, after all. This wasn't to be a negotiation -- not exactly -- so there was no need to intimidate her opposite number.

She wondered idly, as she adjusted the pendant so it lay flat on her chest, if she were capable of intimidating Jenn Kryze . If she was, she was certain it wouldn't be with jewelry.

The Jedi Master was another story altogether. She was a puzzle to Natasi. She knew that her path had crossed Reima Vitalis' at one point, and if that wasn't enough, to learn that she was friendly with Jenn Kryze made Natasi instantly suspicious. A Jedi Master befriending a Mandalorian was bad enough; if it had occurred when Jenn was still a member of the Enclave... well, that bordered on treason, didn't it?

But that was an exercise for another day or, more likely, no day at all.

Kenat knocked at the door and Natasi bade him enter. He informed her that the limousine was on its way with the Jedi and the Mandalorian. "It sounds like the beginning of an obscene joke, doesn't it?" She asked Kenat as she smoothed her blazer.

"Ma'am?"

"A Supreme Leader, a Jedi Master, and a Mandalorian Alor walk into a bar..." Natasi began as she approached the door. Kenat fell into step behind and beside her as they left her study. "For the life of me I can't think of a punchline."

"You could always go with the old stand-by," Kenat said as he followed her down the broad stairway into the house's reception hall. Natasi glanced over her shoulder at him and bade him to go on. "The bartender asks: What is this, some kind of joke?"

"Not funny," Natasi said after a moment.

"No," Kenat agreed, the ghost of a smirk on his lips. "They're two minutes out. Do you want me to accompany you?"

Natasi paused at the foot of the stairs. "No," she said after a moment. "And you can tell the guardsmen to keep their distance. I will be quite safe with Master Noble present." Kenat looked dubious, but he knew when Natasi Fortan had her mind made up. She dismissed Kenat and made her way to the broad courtyard that the driveway fed into. Right on schedule, in the distance, Natasi saw the gates swing open and the small motorcade turned into the driveway. Two speederbikes bearing her royal standard and flashing lights were followed by the limousine, another speeder that bore police and paramedics, and a second pair of speederbikes brought up the rear.

Natasi descended the few steps to the paved court. A lush carpet had been rolled out to welcome the dignitaries, and Natasi moved to the end of it. Footmen approached to open the doors as the limousine eased to a halt, their livery dark navy and platinum. Natasi stepped forward to greet her guests. "Master Jedi," she said, offering a deferential half-bow from her neck. Her greeting for Jenn Kryze was, perhaps paradoxically, rather warmer -- perhaps because it was less formal. "Alor Kryze. How lovely to see you again." Dark eyes probed the Alor's appearance, eyebrows twitching together minutely. She had not come out of her battles unscathed, it would seem.

"Thank you both for coming all this way. Ah -- won't you come in?" Sweeping her arm back towards the palace -- a small palace -- but a palace nonetheless, as if she were an ordinary housewife inviting friends in for coffee. "I've made rooms available for you if you'd like to freshen up after your journey, or we can proceed directly to the luncheon. What suits you both best?"

Jenn Kryze | Valery Noble​

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Wedding Ring

"You look great." Valery smiled and reached out to place a hand on her friend's shoulder, squeezing it and shaking just lightly enough to hopefully pull her gaze back up where it belonged. With or without battle scars, Jenn was always pleasant to the eyes and she had an amazing heart to back it up. So, as difficult as it may be, Valery wanted nothing more than for Jenn to walk around with her head held high.

She deserved to feel proud about herself.

Valery then listened to Jenn's assessment of Lady Fortan's character and nodded along, "If she invited you to her private residence, I sure hope she's receptive to honesty and willing to work past things. If not..." Valery smirked and turned her gaze to see if the driver was listening along. "If not, we just have to make a daring escape, no?" She joked with a grin and a little nudge with her hip. Up ahead, she already saw the outline of the palace coming into view, so she quickly steadied herself again and waited.

Being escorted to meet with a ruler wasn't anything new, but somehow it felt like there was a lot at stake this time. Perhaps she should have expected that, knowing she was here largely for a friend.

Soon enough, the limousine entered the courtyard. Valery's eyes began to drift around, taking in some of the surroundings before ultimately searching and finding their host. From inside the vehicle, it was hard to really get a feeling of who this woman was, but it was obvious she had a great attention for detail. The limousine came to a stop a moment later, and once the doors were opened, Valery was the first to step out.

"A pleasure to meet you, and thank you for the invitation," Valery said with a polite smile and a slight dip of her body from the waist. Stepping aside, she offered Jenn a moment to greet Natasi and noted the immediate change in demeanor. In this particular case, a good sign.

"I'm ready to proceed to the luncheon, unless you'd like to take a moment first?" Valery asked, eyes sliding over to Jenn.

Natasi Fortan Jenn Kryze ​

 

[Jenn Kryze]

​

| Location | Lady Fortan's Palace
| Objective | Make Peace

Valery's kind words gently nudged Jenn away from the state of contemplation she found herself so utterly lost into - and the feeling of that hand resting on her shoulder helped to ground the Mandalorian, the memory of white-hot pain fading from her thoughts. Before her first meeting with Valery, the Mandalorian nourished a profound disdain for all those touched by the Force, regarding them with hate borne out of deep-seated fear. The Sith had taken everything from her as a child, left her to watch as her mother was cut down, her decades of training made useless as the unnatural power held by the dark executioner twisted her body as a puppeteer would with his creations... and Jenn never forgot that sight. If not for her friendship with the Grandmaster, she would still count herself among the Enclave's most zealous warriors, lost in blind hatred of those who called upon those mysterious powers beyond the understanding of most common folk. And yet, here she was, finding comfort in the touch of one of her people's ancient foes.

Dragging her hand over the fresh scars on the left side of her face, she fought against the terror that rose within her, biting down the fear and helplessness that threatened to consume her. Instead, she turned her thoughts towards the outcome of the terrible conflict, and how she had come to the aid of a Jedi without any second thoughts, fighting fiercely for his life and that of his men. Even now, the warriors of Clan Kryze were hard at work re-establishing order on Onderon, coordinating with whatever the Alliance could spare to aid the ravaged capital. The future before her was bright, and things would keep on improving if she kept leading her Clan along a path of cooperation, rather than stewing in past grudges and wariness as so many others among her people did.

When Valery suggested a daring escape, a smile pulled at her lips, and the clouds over her thoughts dissipated entirely. "Somehow, I get the feeling this would not be your first time doing something like this", teased the fiery-haired warrior gently. Although she suspected that the title of Grandmaster surely came with a great deal of responsibilities, her friend had a touch of wildness about her, clearly possessed with that trait which made the best Jedi so respected and reviled in equal measure: an unshakeable dedication to doing what was right, and damn the obstacle!

Ever a warrior, Jenn's gaze remained as sharp and critical as her reputation made her out to be as she stepped out of the limousine, her eyes immediately shifting to the guardsmen as she began to take in their numbers, equipment, weaponry... at the end of the day, no amount of diplomacy could train those old instincts out of her. But, guarded as she may be because of her nature, the siren's gaze quickly turned to look for their host-

Her lack of a false visage was soon proving to be a curse. Truly, it had been a mistake for her to come without her beskar'gam! For a scant few seconds, her features betrayed her surprise at the sight of the monarch, eyes wide and filled with admiration. Truly and utterly disarmed, she found herself struggling to gather her wits, greedily drinking from the sight before her. Truly, it was a small mercy that Natasi's attention remained largely focused on Valery at first, granting her some measure of reprieve! Finally snapping out of such adoration, the Mandalorian offered her gracious host a radiant smile. "Likewise, your grace", came that sing-song voice of hers, melodious and captivating. The poor Songbird only realized she had slipped into her people's telltale voice after the fact, her mortification hidden by the distraction that came to them all in the form of arrangements.

"Not at all", assured the Alor, regaining control over herself once more. "I am ready as well."

​

Valery Noble Natasi Fortan ​

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi regarded Jenn curiously; had she sounded so melodious at the event on Naboo? The woman's capacity to surprise was unmatched, it was true. If someone had told her half a year ago that she would be inviting a Mandalorian -- any Mandalorian, but particularly this Mandalorian -- to her home to break bread, she would have laughed and laughed.

Dark eyes and attention returned to the Jedi Master after that moment as she began to lead the party up the stairs. "I'm sorry we've only had the opportunity to meet under these circumstances, Master Noble, though I have had the privilege of watching the other Master Noble in his diplomatic role as Jedi representative to the Senate. I am a great admirer of the Valery Noble I read about in the dispatches, and I'm sure they're all quite, quite true." She flashed a tight smile sidelong at the Jedi Master. "I'm sure you have a great many demands on your time these days, and so I am truly grateful that you were able to find the time to meet with us. I am hopeful that with your guidance we will be able to put this conflict to rest."

Natasi was sure that there were no two women less interested in the art and architecture of the small palace -- a glorified townhouse, really -- so she spared them the pain of a dull tour. Besides, it was a short walk to the private dining room.

"Alor Kryze, before you depart, do remind me -- I've set aside a few more books from George's things that you might enjoy, if you liked the last one," Natasi said as she led the pair into the dining room. "Sit wherever you like; make yourselves comfortable,please," Natasi said. She left the doors open, not wishing to make the Alor feel hemmed in. The water glasses had been filled since she had been in, and the wine selections to pair with the luncheon courses were set out on the side table, chilling or decanting as the case required.

When the two others had selected their seats, Natasi took the third and unfolded her napkin, laying it across her lap. She settled her hands anxiously on her thighs and, with a sheepish, almost shy glance at Jenn, Natasi said: "If you've no objection, Alor, I'll... lay out my request to the Master Jedi."

Natasi was uncomfortable around Jedi -- a relic of her upbringing in the faith of the Cosmic Balance. This was complicated by the fact that, upon her resurrection from the Nether, she was cursed with a connection to the Force. Still, the Jedi Master had come all this way, and she had not given Natasi any reason to suspect that she had any ill-intent. She was, by all accounts, a righteous warrior for the New Jedi Order, an organization that was -- generally speaking -- for the good.

"I'm sure the good Alor has given you some idea as to the point of this ordeal. I... I find myself in an uncomfortable position as a result of my acquaintance with the Alor -- with Jenn. She, in her previous life, inflicted significant harm on me and on my colleague Senator Calgar. I believe that she has had a change of heart since then, truly I do believe it, and yet I find myself unsatisfied. Some part of me demands some kind of justice. And my Prime Minister is uncomfortable with such a public assault on the Renascent Republic being seen to go unpunished."

The Supreme Leader allowed a glance at Jenn, her lips twitching upward fondly. "I am aware of the Alor's discomfort with the idea of detention and, moreover, my intention is not to punish her. Our true enemies, the people directing her against myself and Senator Calgar, are the ones truly worthy of penalty. But I believe there is an element of punishment to Jenn trying to move forward for herself and her people with the threat of retaliation hanging over her."

Natasi picked up her glass and took a sip of water. "I suppose the point of this all is to see if there is some sort of compromise we can achieve, wherein the Alor is free to move on without the shadow of retribution looming over her, and wherein I and my Prime Minister are assured that some measure of justice is done -- and seen to be done."

The truth of it all was that she had somehow grown fond of Jenn, and that was proving to be... inconvenient. "Have I missed anything, Alor?" she asked, once more turning her heavily-lidded dark eyes on the Mandalorian, inviting her to chime in.

Jenn Kryze | Valery Noble​

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Wedding Ring

"I was a Jedi Shadow once," Valery said with a playful smirk. "Escaping dangerous territory was my specialty~" Not that she considered this dangerous territory, but that wasn't the point. Hearing the teasing tone and seeing a smile pulling at her friend's lips mattered most. This day was meant to take them a step forward, and such a moment deserved a smile and joyful feelings. However, as soon as they arrived and were introduced to the Lady of the Land, Valery's expression turned somewhat more serious.

She admittedly didn't know as much about Natasi as she should — nothing beyond mentions at the dinner table, whenever her husband discussed the latest Senate meetings. But she supposed today was as good as any to change that.

"It's quite alright, and I do hope my husband has left a good impression as well. His stance towards the Senate can be rather... strong," Valery said, unable to keep a smile from tugging at her lips. Her voice was always filled with warmth whenever she talked about her husband, but now it was filled with light amusement as well. She had heard about the few occasions when he threw away politically correct language in favor of more direct confrontation.

"I'm glad you've heard good things about me, though, and I hope not to disappoint." She was here primarily to assist them both, after all. As much as lunch with the two of them sounded lovely, she couldn't allow herself to forget her true purpose. The history between these two women was complicated and they'd have to find a way to navigate through it together.

Once inside the dining room, Valery found herself a seat and watched Natasi just a little more closely. At the Noble household, she wasn't exactly teaching her kids the art of fine dining. Not for a lack of interest, but merely because she was never taught herself. There were no napkins carefully unfolded over one's lap, no rules about the placement of utensils, and she'd certainly be lying if she claimed that the occasional pancake wasn't eaten with bare hands.

Especially the kids, of course.

Having mirrored the woman, Valery turned to face her and listened intently. She was familiar with parts of the story, but the situation that followed wasn't easy to address. She wanted a form of justice, but whilst taking into account Jenn's own wishes and levels of comfort? A peculiar request, but one Valery would do her best to help out with.

For now, she nodded along and turned to Jenn first. Once she had both sides of the story, she'd better be able to help.

Natasi Fortan Jenn Kryze ​

 

[Jenn Kryze]

​

| Location | Lady Fortan's Palace
| Objective | Looking back...

Jenn practically shuddered from the powerful sense of deja vu coursing through her as she sat down at the table, still processing the kindness Natasi showed her as the gracious host spoke with her dearest friend of the rather illustrious reputation she possessed - and that of her husband as well for his headstrong demeanor in the Senate. Even now, she found herself unable to truly relax and lower her guard, no matter how dearly she wished to do just that: the warrior's heart within her all but ensured that her eyes kept on slowly turning this way and that, taking in the layout of the room to prepare for the worst, even as her mind tried to assuage her fears. Was Natasi not considerate, to take her claustrophobia into account? Was she not worthy of her admiration, to behave like this as she welcomed her captor within her domain?

So taken was she in her analysis of the dining room that she failed to notice something she would normally have noticed at first glance - something that gave her pause. The sight of that ring served as a reminder of her first encounter with the Sword of the Jedi on a world of the Galactic Alliance, cornered by the Jedi as she retrieved a set of beskar'gam in the possession of the arrogant heir to some well-placed bureaucrats, and how all aggression within her dissipated at the simple, but powerful reminder that she faced a woman with a family waiting for her. Would she have acted any differently during the boarding of the Corvo, had she taken notice of it? Perhaps not, but she would never have subjected Natasi to the presence of a Crusader, had she known her to be-

A person, rather than a scapegoat for me to latch onto in a time of crisis.

In truth, Jenn knew that the kind of affection she held for the monarch was to be entirely one-sided, which softened the blow somewhat - but what truly struck her with the might of a hundred swords was the realization that she had kept her from someone. Just as Alicio Organa 's imprisonment sat poorly with her on account of the loved ones waiting for him as she held him within the Clan's former home on Kestri's moon, the Alor felt nothing but shame before such a new variable. And that shame burned all the more fiercely because of how the woman before her sought to bury the hatchet, treating her with the respect and dignity she had failed to show her.

Letting out a breath she had not quite realized she held for so long, the Mandalorian drank from her glass of water greedily, the flaring of her gills as she exhaled leaving her with an odd sense of vulnerability. It was through sheer force of will that she mastered herself once more, offering a small smile that almost betrayed her turmoil within her as Natasi turned to her.

"Not at all - and I must thank you for... well. Granting me this chance." There was a pause, then, as she allowed herself a moment of contemplation, her gaze locked with that of her adored Galidraani aristocrat. "I am sure the reports were... damning enough of their own, but a first-hand account from the perpetrator herself is another thing entirely. Your majesty, do correct me, should I err in my recollection."

Reaching over to take a nearby pitcher of water, the Ersansyr refilled her glass of water - and it took a monumental effort on her part not to slam all of it down in one go, restraining herself to long sips instead as she brought the napkin to rest on her lap. Much like the Jedi by her side, the Alor had never quite learned the intricacies of proper etiquette; she was, after all, a smith by trade for many years before she finally seized the mantle of leadership for herself.

"I was not the Alor of Clan Kryze when the call for war came - in fact, for all intents and purposes, the Clan did not exist in any meaningful capacity, with only a few scattered survivors from the Sith genocide still carrying the name. No, I was only a smith of the Kayatr'ade. I held some doubts as to the legitimacy of the Crusade, but I allowed my distrust of the Jedi and the perceived slight against my people to blind me, and so I supported the war effort through my contributions to weapons and armor manufacturing. When the call went out for a raid against the Galactic Alliance, I jumped at the chance to fight alongside my people. I suppose I hoped we could bloody the Alliance enough to force them into a ceasefire."

A mirthless chuckle escaped her, then, as she looked down at her glass instead of facing the gaze of those she had once called enemy, swirling its contents in a nervous effort to keep her hands busy. To her dismay, it was only now that she could see just how deluded she had been.

"You would remember this as the Enclave's assault on Ukatis, Kiffu, Thyferra, and Yag'Dhul. I was assigned to admiral Keldra's command as a combat engineer, attached to a squad of supercommandos with the purpose of performing a boarding action. I was already aboard my drop pod when I was informed of a last-minute change of plans: I was to board a vessel and capture a pair of high-value targets." Another pause, then, as she turned her gaze to face Natasi's own, the memory of their first confrontation all too fresh in her mind. Once more did she smile, yet the gesture only showed haunting regrets and bitter shame. There was a desperate need in her eyes to be chastised, to be reminded of what she had done - something that would have surprised her, if not for her determination to see things through to the end. Even now, she remembered the coldness behind Natasi's gaze as she gazed into the Y-visor of her captor, how piercing her eyes proved to be, even as she was held at the mercy of the Galaxy's greatest warriors.

"I was deployed aboard the ANS Corvo, and I quickly made contact with Senator Calgar as well as Senator Fortan, who had hastily armed themselves shortly after I made entry. I demanded their immediate surrender. Her Majesty, I recall you informed me of the war crimes I was committing by assaulting a diplomatic vessel - only for me to tell you that I did not care." Jenn winced at the recollection of her callous and foolish words. "Both Senators made a run for it through a partially-opened door. I deployed my flamethrower and inflicted severe burns on Senator Calgar as the both of them retreated to the bridge, shortly before I blasted my way through, killed the Captain and his second in command- and incapacitated Lady Fortan with significant blunt force trauma to the side of the head. Senator Calgar engaged me in close quarters combat shortly thereafter with a vibroknife, wounding me severely before I blinded him with my own blade. At this point, he escaped through a shuttle, and I took Natasi as a prisoner, along with the precious cargo she was transporting."

She paused, then, turning her gaze to look at her friend. If Valery had been disappointed during the armor exchange that took place afterward, she truly feared what he reaction might be to so brutal a crime, perpetrated mere weeks before her first meeting with her then-padawan, Corazona von Ascania . That apprehension was only tempered by her steadfast belief that she had to face consequences.

"In short, Grandmaster, I maimed a Senator, brutally beat another into unconsciousness, then took her as my prisoner. All of which after I was informed of the criminality of the boarding itself. I have changed since then, yes, and I hold the notion of a Crusade as one of the most backwards notion of my people, and one we must shed if we are to prosper... but, under my leadership, Clan Kryze was reborn under the founding tenets of Truth, Justice, and Honor. I would be a hypocrite if I tried to evade justice any longer."

​

Valery Noble Natasi Fortan ​

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi looked over to the Alor, her dark eyes softening a little. "My dear," she said quietly, as if speaking only to Jenn, although Varlery Noble would of course hear. She lifted a hand, reached for Jenn's nearest hand -- but thought better of it at the last moment and rested her hand on the table half a foot away from Jenn's wrist, fingers curling under her palm. "My intention was not to get you to self-flagellate. I -- " She broke off as a trio of footmen arrived in the doorway, each carrying a dish covered in a silver dome. They approached with military precision, moving behind each of the ladies and, in unison, placing the dishes down and removing the lid, to reveal the contents beneath.

"Wild mushroom millefueille," the lead footman announced, "and roasted winter vegetable bisque."

Natasi nodded her thanks, and the footmen departed again as if in a military drill.

"Do let me know if something isn't to your taste," Natasi said pleasantly to her two companions. "If there is anything particular you'd prefer I'm sure the cook can arrange it. Where was I -- ah, yes -- well. Now is not the time for recrimination. I said some things that I regret, to be certain, and I did try to get under your skin aboard the Corvo. Not to say that it warranted the result, but -- I wouldn't go so far as to say I was blameless in the whole affair," Natasi told Jenn kindly. "Now -- I wish to be constructive. To really settle this, and -- to that end -- may I make a proposal?"

"I'm aware that Alor Kryze and her people are not mercenaries and I would not treat them as such. However, they are skilled warriors and -- now that they are outside the influence of the Enclave -- honorable, upstanding people," Natasi said, fixing her soft gaze on Master Noble as she picked up her fork and knife. She began to pick apart the millefueille, its layers of puff pastry becoming quite mangled in the process. "I've read the dispatches provided to the Defense Committee and that are quite impressive. Perhaps there is something along those lines that the Alor could... volunteer her talents toward. Balance knows there are enough innocents needing defending, and there will be more as these wars progress."

She took a bite of the millefueille, then set her fork and knife down. After swallowing, Natasi looked between the two women. "Thoughts?"

Jenn Kryze | Valery Noble​

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Wedding Ring

Valery's left eyebrow arched up just slightly when it seemed as if Natasi was about to reach for Jenn's hand. How the two had gone from their first encounter to this, was almost beyond her understanding, but she respected their ability to forgive. Forgiving, however, did not mean forgetting and Valery understood a need for justice. Not the kind that saw Jenn disappear behind bars for many years, but something appropriate to formally settle the situation.

The sound of footsteps behind her drew Valery's gaze over her shoulder. She watched the three closely, taking note of their practiced behavior. She looked back down at the table when their meals were presented to them, and blinked when the lead footman explained what it was.

The types of food her husband could make, she thought to herself. Valery's own cooking was fine, but limited to less fancy meals, she supposed. Though, nothing quite beat a good steak.

"It looks and smells lovely," Valery said with a smile for both Natasi and the three footman. Once more, Valery carefully mirrored the behavior of the other women — particularly Natasi — so she wouldn't be too upsetting with her eating habits. But while knife and fork slipped into her hands, she also listened.

"I think that's a good and decent proposal," Valery began, her eyes shifting to Jenn to gauge her reaction, "It gives me an idea as well. Recently, as I'm sure you both know, Onderon was attacked. While the planet falls outside Alliance jurisdiction, our relationship with the locals and authorities is strong. Perhaps Jenn and her people could assist recovery efforts there? Not all attackers managed to get off-world."

"Some are hiding out within the jungles or mountains. I'm sure both the Alliance and the people of Onderon would appreciate some assistance to clear the planet of hostiles."

Natasi Fortan Jenn Kryze ​

 

[Jenn Kryze]

Natasi's reaction was both unexpected... and unwelcome. By showing her mercy, the Galidraani only made it more difficult for the Mandalorian to obtain that which she sought - the blame she so richly deserved may very well just banish her ridiculous thoughts, entertained for far too long! But instead of scorn and spite, she was shown kindness, understanding... and perhaps even a measure of forgiveness. Her heartstrings were delicately plucked, and a pleasant warmth spread all throughout as she basked in the wonderful feeling of being accepted.

The arrival of a trio of footmen would almost have been fortuitous, if not for how rapidly the Alor's gaze cut towards them, eyes narrowed and body tense. Even now, she remained on guard, no matter how clearly she trusted the lady of the house; perhaps it was simply in her nature as a warrior, or even yet a result of her claustrophobia, if not a mix of both. Still, she found herself relaxing soon after their entrance, regarding the food presented to her with a polite nod and a half-smile. Quite the departure from Mandalorian cuisine, perhaps, and she would do well not to get too familiar with such delicacies - but for now, she allowed herself a measure of respite, taking hold of knife and fork quietly as Natasi spoke of the matter they had all agreed to meet up for: resolution.

No answer came from the battle-scarred warrior at first. The unlikely guest seemed all too content to cut the millefeuille carefully as the gracious host and the honored Jedi spoke, listening intently to their proposal... before setting the cutlery down after taking a bite, bringing her fingers to drag alongside the left side of her face, bringing attention to the grisly reminder of what the Force could accomplish. The baleful lightning had left her neck, jaw, and cheek unfortunately marked, in spite of the bacta treatment following the battle.

Then again, she had too much to do to follow a more comprehensive healing process, leaving the infirmary all too quickly in order to see to her duty.

"I fought on Onderon", spoke the Alor calmly, turning her gaze to Valery quizzically, before remembering that her friend was not exactly privy to that information. "After Duke- or, should I now say, King Organa and yourself answered my call, I resolved to act on my ideals, my dream of reshaping the horde under my command into a contingent of warrior-heroes. We came to Onderon's aid, and laid down our lives for its people. Even now, my warriors remain on the surface with orders to aid the locals, although we are not quite sanctioned by any sort of authority. I would be all too glad to work hand-in-hand with the Alliance to distribute supplies to aid in the rebuilding... and track down the loathsome dogs who perpetrated atrocities on the local population."

A pause followed her words, then, as she pondered just how prudent it might be for her to reveal her hand to the two women in her presence, her gray eyes seamlessly shifting into their true color, an enticing, glowing blue. Keeping her true nature in check was ever-so difficult when she found herself confronted with such situations, after all.

"In truth, I find myself hoping to set down roots for Clan Kryze on the world of Onderon. For such a thing to come to pass, however, my people and I will doubtlessly need the approval of its reigning monarch."

​

Valery Noble Natasi Fortan ​

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi nodded thoughtfully as she listened to the Jedi Master and her friend, the Alor.

"I'm certain that between the Jedi Master and well-liked members of the Senate and diplomatic corps -- not me, I'm sure, don't worry -- to say nothing of your own good deeds on behalf of Onderon -- we could come to some kind of accommodation with the establishment there," the Supreme Leader said thoughtfully before chiseling another bit of the millefeuille off and popping it into her mouth. She chewed, swallowed, dabbed her lips, very much the picture of a prim and proper Galidraani aristocrat. "I'm not sure what kind of formal authority the Galactic Alliance has that could link into what you're describing. It's not exactly the sort of thing SELCORE would handle -- unless its purview were to be expanded -- but that's neither here nor there."

Natasi idly fiddled with her napkin, smoothing it and refolding, anxious and uncertain. Rather like a swan, she remained serene and composed above the surface of the table.

"I -- am sensitive, Alor Kryze, to your phobia of captivity. My intention would not be to subject you to some kind of... formal indentured servitude." She picked up her knife and fork and set about to cut another small bite, though she waited to eat it, leaning into the conversation instead. "That would be, in my view, captivity of another kind."

She took the bite then, licked her lips, and after swallowing, continued: "So I would propose nothing formal, no obligatoions. Not like a sentence, you understand."

Jenn Kryze | Valery Noble​

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Wedding Ring

Valery did know that Jenn had fought on Onderon — it's exactly why she had made the proposal for her to return. Jenn was familiar with the planet and its jungle, and she was quite certain that the local authorities would welcome someone who had already fought and bled for their world. The fact that Jenn would be helping the planet she wished to settle on with her clan was a bonus on top of all that.

This was a chance to not only honor the request for justice but also to prove herself trustworthy to the monarchy.

"I'm confident we'll find a way. Onderon is likely quite appreciative that we came to their aid already. I don't see why they wouldn't want us to help them again." Valery could also vouch for Jenn and her people if it were necessary, and while she was no Senator or political representative, the word of a Jedi could still mean a lot.

Especially one they trusted.

"Are you both satisfied with the proposal?" If so, only Natasi's last point still stood — that this was no obligation or form of captivity. This was a chance to show respect and build up trust.

Natasi Fortan Jenn Kryze ​

 

[Jenn Kryze]

Leadership, and the many obligations that came with it, taught the Alor of Clan Kryze an important lesson in pragmatism. Walking a fine line between the demands of honor and those of leadership would be her fate for the rest of her life, her every choice carefully weighed as to ensure the continuation of her people - without damning them to Haran in the process, as others had done in the name of survival. ​

​

Jenn contemplated the incredibly generous offer with a certain measure of apprehension. In a way, it felt... perhaps too lenient, given her crimes. Too convenient. Shame welled up within her, threatening to grasp at her decency and drag her down into a cell of her own making. Pushing it back down took no small effort of will on her part... and accepting this reprieve so earnestly offered claimed yet more of this strength of spirit she was becoming legendary for among her people. One day, perhaps, she would lose her composure and descend into a manic breakdown. ​

​

But not today.​

​

"These are generous terms, Natasi", was all the siren could bring herself to say at first, that buzzing need at the back of her mind to keep her hands busy finding a perfect outlet as as she set about the simple task of carefully cutting into the millefeuille, bringing another bite to her lips, where those razor sharp teeth of hers made short work of the (admittedly delightful) meal. Every now and then, those attentive enough were reminded that the Alor was, in spite of appearances, not quite human anymore.​

​

Then, her gaze shifted to Valery, ever-alive and captivating in its pulsing glow. "I accept this proposition. And, should you desire it, I would be more than glad to have the both of you present to see all of this unfold on Onderon." ​

​

​

Valery Noble Natasi Fortan ​

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi's attention turned to Valery, her eyebrows lifting in amusement. "To be honest, my correspondence with the Alor led me to believe she would take a lot more convincing and I planned my menu around my best understanding of a Mandalorian's stubbornness." Natasi's voice, typically stern with gravitas, danced with something approaching joviality. Jenn might recognize it for what it was -- giddiness brought on my relief. The ordeal was reaching a conclusion, and one that would be good for all parties involved: Jenn would avoid having the threat of retribution hanging over her head; Natasi's sense of justice could be satisfied, and the Prime Minister would have to be satisfied -- she would see to that; and the people of Onderon would gain a dedicated protector.

Not bad to accomplish over just the first course.

Speaking of --

The footmen entered again -- six of them, this time -- to remove the empty dishes and replace them with the salad course, then retreated with military efficiency.

"I am satisfied, Master Jedi, if you and the Alor are?" She turned an inquisitive gaze to Jenn, eyebrows furrowing a little. "Ought we to shake on it? On your honor as an Alor and mine as -- well, whatever I am. A Galidraani aristocrat ought to do it as far as honor goes hm?" She reached across the table, slender hand offered, at last, in friendship.

A wild ride, indeed.

"It would be an honor to attend," Natasi assured Jenn. "Just -- name the time and place and I'll make it work."

Valery Noble | Jenn Kryze​