First Reply You've Got Zinder

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Small Cafe //:
//: Jutrand //:
//: Attire //:

The soft, distinctive chirping alert on the comm device had begun to drive the woman insane. She knew these types of things could be addictive or promote meetings with less-than-favorable outcomes. The thought might be more so in the pair that linked up for those "less" than "favorable" outcomes. For the most part, Quinn had found herself navigating through many bots and the dreaded hook-up culture that had befallen their generation.

Grabbing the device, she swiped quickly to access the annoying chirping app. "What do you want?" She mumbled quietly, scanning the recent like or two she had just received. "Oh, you're cute." She smiled and swiped in the correct direction to show that she approved of the individual's initial liking. Another few faces popped up on her screen; one made her turn her phone to try and understand what they were trying to portray in their image. "Interesting," she swiped again. As annoyed as she got from the chirping noises, she rarely swiped in the negative direction. "Wider the pool, the better my chances," she cheerfully quipped as she let herself swipe a few more times.

One face popped up, and she groaned, "Ugh, why would this terrible thing think we were a match," She swiped but internally screamed when she realized she had swiped the right way but the wrong way. "I can never show my face again." She quickly turned off the screen and set the phone face down. Quinn sat in her chair, hunched over, legs crossed with the bridge of her nose pinched between her thumb and forefinger letting the existential crisis take hold. She felt like a teenager again, and not in the good way most would enjoy saying that phrase. Her life was crumbling around her, and she had just made a massive mistake. "Hopefully, it gets lost in the void," she spoke to the slinking black feline familiar that had appeared in her lap. "There's no trying to convince you to use your little void powers?" The cat purred and curled the tip of its black tail under her nose. "Fine. I'll live with my poor choices."

Silence had fallen, and the small cat decided to sleep at her feet; the hustle and bustle of the small cafe on Jutrand was the perfect setting for grading papers. Quinn removed her larger device and swiped through reading the students' papers. As usual, the First and Second Cohorts passed with flying colors; others made the young professor raise an eyebrow.

Quinn found herself staring at Aerik Lechner 's recent assignment. She wanted to give him a positive grade, not because his father was her boss, but because he was a good student. Yet, he continued to sabotage himself. "You know, I get the boy's father has that wolf thing going on, but child, you don't need to draw bite marks into your homework and color it, so I can't read half your assignment," she spoke to no one in particular and graded the paper. She smirked, seeing that the boy had a sense of humor like his father. Quinn took a screenshot and sent it to his father, Gerwald Lechner with a note: While I enjoy staying on theme, please let Aerik know that he needs to do the whole paper and not let his 'dog' participate.

At times, she hated how the Jutrand Academy promoted the elitism that the Bastion Academy had been known for. Still, she knew it was for the best. The students produced by Jutrand were the new leaders, the ones meant to follow in the current generation's footsteps. Still, she wanted them to hold on to their childhood.

The device chirped again, pulling her attention. It was a message, and she quickly responded and allowed her location to be found. The person on the other end had caught her at a good time—loneliness had settled in, and the feline familiar could only curb it so much.

 

[Serina Calis]

Location: Jedi Temple, Coruscant
Tag: Quinn Varanin

The soft glow of her datapad illuminated Serina's face as she sat cross-legged on the meditation mat in her Jedi dormitory. It was supposed to be a moment of reflection, her usual time to reconnect with the Force after a long day of training. But her focus was slipping tonight, her mind too restless, her emotions too raw.

She blamed Zinder.

The app was a guilty indulgence, something she had downloaded on a whim after overhearing her peers gossiping about their matches during a rare moment of levity. A Jedi, tethered to their duties and the teachings of detachment, wasn't supposed to entertain such frivolities. Yet, here she was, scrolling through faces and profiles with a mix of curiosity and caution.

The wider the galaxy, the greater the possibilities, she justified silently, echoing the advice she often gave herself when experimenting with the Force. It wasn't wrong, was it?

Serina swiped through a handful of profiles, her sharp blue eyes scanning each one with a mix of intrigue and skepticism. She chuckled softly at a Rodian whose bio claimed they were "out of this world," a Twi'lek with far too many selfies, and a Corellian whose image featured a badly photoshopped starship. Despite herself, she swiped right more often than not.

But then she froze.

The next profile was…different.

Quinn Varanin. An elegant face, shrouded in an aura of quiet intelligence. The bio was concise but intriguing. There was something about her that immediately caught Serina's attention—something she couldn't quite place.

Without thinking, Serina swiped right.

Moments later, a notification appeared at the top of her screen. "It's a match!" Her heart skipped, her hand hovering over the screen as if unsure what to do next. The excitement was quickly tempered by a creeping sense of guilt. This wasn't what she should be doing. What if someone at the Temple found out?

Still, her thumb lingered over the chat button. She tapped it.

Serina: <Hi, Quinn. I hope I'm not interrupting, but your profile really stood out to me. You seem fascinating—what's it like living on Jutrand?>

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Small Cafe //:
//: Jutrand //:
//: Attire //:
//: Serina Calis //:

Quinn glanced back down at the device. It seemed the chirping was only starting. She put down the quizzes she was grading and picked up her comm device once more. A few taps and she opened the message from the person she had just accepted the match with. Fortunately for the other girl, she had the most normal-looking profile Quinn had seen that day. It meant two things, the girl was probably not weird and not a bot. The idea of someone actually being on the other side and being interested in what they had seen on Quinn's profile made the Echani giddy.

It was a feeling she hadn't felt in some time. Between work and teaching, there had been very little the Varanin woman could do. On top of her own baggage and trauma, it just felt like she wasn't destined to have that final piece to her happiness. In so many ways, it came and went, usually in a fit of fire and ash. Quinn exhaled gently and read the chat log over and over again. As hard as she may try, there was no gleaning intent off the instant message.

"Meeting people in person is so much easier," the Echani complained, as reading body language was one of the culture's innate gifts. Quinn quickly tapped away on the device, responding rapidly to the inquiry.

Quinn: < Hello! Your message is a welcomed distraction, trust me. It's a pleasure to meet you, Serina; I'm glad my profile caught your attention. Your profile is quite well-written, and your pictures are pristine.>

Quinn happily sent the first bit of the message. She didn't want to bombard the other woman with a large wall of text, but she also wanted to answer Serina's question.

Quinn: <Jutrand? It's lovely, I am partial to Coruscant, but Jutrand is a nice alternative. Though my favorite place is Eshan… It's been a while since I returned home, but I at least have Eshan in my dreams. How about you? Any favorite places? Where are you from? I hope you're having a wonderful day!>

She quickly sent the second message. Quinn quickly re-read both messages and wondered if her punctuation was too accurate. She wasn't good at this; she had always met people organically and not over the holonet. Very little time had passed, but Quinn found herself looking at her device and not grading the test she had promised the students of Jutrand that she would have done before the week started. "I can't stare at this thing; I'm going to go mad." Quinn quickly put the device down and exhaled deeply.

Her attention returned to the papers she was grading; her stylus tapped on the table as she read through everything. Quinn couldn't help but let her eyes wander back to her device's screen, hoping it would light up. As quickly as her excitement had swelled, Quinn found her anxiety now inhabiting her brain. She chewed gently on the end of the stylus, thinking over and over again that maybe she had been a little too excited to respond. Did she come off as desperate? Groaning, Quinn held her head and stamped her feet under the table in a small tantrum.

Why do dating and meeting people have to be so complicated nowadays? How did someone like Malum have so many sexual partners? He has to have been doing something special or something?

She may need to ask Malum for advice.

Mentioned: Darth Malum of House Marr

 

[Serina Calis]

Location: Coruscant, Jedi Temple
Tag: Quinn Varanin

Serina's heart raced as she read the messages from Quinn, the glow of her datapad casting flickering shadows across the dormitory walls. It was an unfamiliar sensation—this nervous anticipation, the odd warmth that came from someone acknowledging her, not as a student or an upstart Padawan, but simply…her. A part of her relished the normalcy of the interaction, a reprieve from the chaos that had engulfed her on Rakata Prime.

Her thoughts briefly darkened, a chill creeping into her chest. The memory of her encounter with Darth Imperius was still fresh, an inescapable phantom that haunted her every waking moment. The raw, searing pain of his lightning, the sharp, finality of his lightsaber strike—the sensation of death itself—lingered in her mind like a wound that refused to heal.

And then the resurrection. The Dark Side's cacophony still echoed within her, the prophecy it whispered shaping her thoughts and driving her ambition. She had returned, reborn and altered, no longer bound by the Jedi's teachings. She had chosen to rise above her frailty, to reshape herself into something greater, but the path forward was still shrouded in uncertainty.

For now, though, she set those thoughts aside. Quinn's words pulled her focus back to the moment.

Eshan. Jutrand.

Quinn spoke of places Serina had never been, worlds that seemed impossibly distant from her current reality. For all her brilliance and ambition, she realized how sheltered her life had been. The galaxy was vast, and she had barely begun to explore its depths.

Smiling faintly, she typed her response.

Serina: <Quinn, your response truly brightened my evening. It's rare for me to find such an engaging distraction from my daily routine, and your warmth is…refreshing.>

She hesitated, fingers hovering over the screen. Should she be so open? Was it wise to show even a glimmer of vulnerability, especially now, with so much uncertainty surrounding her? A part of her—the part still tethered to the Jedi's lessons—warned against attachment. Another, far louder voice whispered that connection, however fleeting, was a source of strength.

Taking a steadying breath, she continued.

Serina: <I've never been to Eshan, but it sounds beautiful. My favorite place? That's a bit harder to say. I grew up on Chandrila, which is serene and structured in a way I used to find comforting. But lately, I think I'd rather seek out the places that challenge me—places with history, with secrets waiting to be uncovered. I recently visited a world with ancient ruins, Rakata Prime. It was…enlightening.>

Her mind flashed back to Rakata Prime, to the ruins that had almost claimed her life, and how the Dark Side itself had restored it. She forced the memories back into the depths of her consciousness, unwilling to let them taint this moment.

Serina: <How long have you been on Jutrand? I imagine it must be fascinating to teach at such an esteemed academy. Do you find the students as inspiring as the environment, or a little disappointing?>

Satisfied with her response, Serina leaned back against the wall, cradling the datapad in her lap. The Force whispered faintly at the edges of her perception, reminding her of the path she had chosen to walk. For now, she could allow herself this moment of normalcy—a fleeting connection in a galaxy that seemed determined to tear her apart.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Small Cafe //:
//: Jutrand //:
//: Attire //:
//: Serina Calis //:

Quinn leaned back in the cafe chair. The sun on Jutrand was oddly warmer now that she had found something to smile about that afternoon. She could feel the stresses of her current situation starting to melt away as her mind tried not to be anxious about the response. Maybe Serina would find her answers too rigid and stop responding. It wouldn't be the first nor the last time when it came to the holonet dating app. There was a bit of hope swelling in the Echani's heart - maybe something good could come of this.

The now welcomed chirp of the app chimed, and Quinn adjusted herself in her seat. Her time for daydreaming was interrupted but with a pleasant surprise. Serina had responded, and Quinn felt the corners of her lips pulling into a bashful smile. Quickly, she read the message and smiled wider as the woman expressed her joy over the correspondence. It felt good to know that someone appreciated her in a way that didn't push them ahead. So many times, Quinn felt that the people around her only valued her because of her origins and status. Serina knew nothing about the young Princess and still felt appreciation. Quinn could feel her chest tighten at the thought; it was a good feeling not to have someone desire something from you.

Fingertips played with the scrunched cloth around her neck; it was early afternoon for her, and seeing that Serina mentioned evening meant she was potentially located in the core. She frowned slightly, knowing what that could possibly mean. The territories that were protected in the core were by the Jedi. The girl she was talking to could easily be an Alliance loyalist - which didn't bode well for the woman. She waved her hand, trying to erase the thoughts from her mind. There were worse things to be than a Jedi. Quinn pushed the negativity from her mind and focused on her response.

Quinn: < I must be honest, but I feel the same. Talking with you has made my day. Jutrand can be lonely sometimes, but I've been here for a few years; I moved from Dromond Kaas. I will say I enjoy city life, but I do miss open spaces. As for teaching, it's fun, and the students they're the children of the elite, so they're very gifted. However, some choose to be stubborn with their learning.>

She couldn't help herself, remembering the young wolf boy and his doodles. As much as she wanted to scold him and tell him to focus on his studies and be great like his father - a part of her wanted him to continue to express himself. Leaning back in her seat, she wrestled with inviting the woman to Eshan or even Jutrand. Maybe it was moving fast, but things would be easier for Quinn. Chewing gently on the lower left corner of her lip, she continued to weigh the risks.

Fingers moved quickly over the datapad as she typed out her question before her brain stopped her with logic.

Quinn: < I don't know how far you are from Jutrand, but you should come and check it out. I would love to meet in person and show you around Jutrand. Maybe if things go well, I can show you Eshan? >

Quinn quickly sent the message and put her device down. She returned to staring at the sky. Maybe she went too far, but the messages were so frustrating, not knowing their intent.

 

[Serina Calis]

Location: Coruscant, Jedi Temple
Tag: Quinn Varanin

Serina stared at her datapad, Quinn's words glowing softly on the screen in the dim light of her dormitory. The invitation was unexpected, and for a moment, she simply sat there, processing it. A mix of excitement and apprehension welled up within her. This was new, uncharted territory—not unlike the ancient ruins on Rakata Prime, though considerably less dangerous…or so she hoped.

Her thoughts wandered to the prophecy whispered by the Dark Side, the path she now walked that straddled the line between light and shadow. The idea of stepping into Quinn's world, even for a moment, felt both exhilarating and perilous. Could she afford to connect with someone like this?

But then, she thought about the warmth in Quinn's messages, the sincerity that seemed so rare in the galaxy. Serina had spent so much time isolated by her ambition, her secrets, and her struggles. This connection—this chance to step away from the chaos, even briefly—felt worth the risk.

Her fingers hovered over the screen as she carefully composed her reply.

Serina: <I can't tell you how much your invitation means to me. I didn't expect to find someone as thoughtful as you here. Jutrand sounds incredible, and I would love to see it through your eyes. Eshan as well—it must be breathtaking if it holds such a special place in your heart.>

She paused, considering how much to reveal. Quinn had been open about her life, and Serina felt a pull to offer something in return—a piece of herself, unguarded.

Serina: <I've been living in the Core for most of my life, though I haven't had many chances to explore. The world I'm on now is…strict. My time here is very structured, but this conversation has been the highlight of my day.>

Serina hesitated for a moment, then decided to be bold.

Serina: <Meeting in person sounds wonderful. I'd love to get to know you better, Quinn. When would be a good time to visit?>

She hit send, her heart racing. A part of her knew that this was reckless, that her Masters at the Temple would never approve. But another part—the part that had died and been reborn on Rakata Prime—insisted that she seize this opportunity.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Small Cafe //:
//: Jutrand //:
//: Attire //:
//: Serina Calis //:

Quinn had begun to clean up her grading work. She had figured the woman on the other end found the Princess too forward and decided to end the conversation prematurely. She could not do anything if Serina decided to move on and unmatch her. It could be the wrong time, the right people, or something more. Still, Quinn tried to stay positive as she finished gathering everything and slung the messenger bag over her shoulder.

"Thanks," Quinn responded to the young man who had moved to clean up the table for another patron. She slipped him a few extra credits as a tip, and Quinn moved away. The boy smiled and thanked the woman as she walked away. Quinn paused, hearing the lovely sound of the device app. Pulling out the phone, Quinn reminded herself not to have her hopes up. Maybe Serina is a human being who lets the Princess down properly instead of ghosting her?

Scrolling through the messages, a smile crossed her face again. Reading the string of messages, Quinn bit her lip as she scoffed at the description of the girl's life. More and more, the woman's suspicions of Serina being a Jedi were becoming real. Knowing that a Jedi was on the other end, Quinn struggled as she walked towards the speeder waiting for her. Jedi and Sith didn't mix. They were oil and water; even if you aggravated the solution, they would eventually separate. Thinking about it stressed the young royal and a part of her wished she had just stayed on Eshan and avoided training in the Force.

"Take me home," she smiled briefly and climbed into the vehicle as the driver held the door open for her. For just a moment, Quinn assumed she could ghost the girl. Yet it would go against everything she had been taught or stood for. Shrugging, maybe this would be something good for her - she had only been with Sith; perhaps a simple Jedi would do the trick. Looking at her device, she responded quickly,

Quinn: < I'm glad! I was hoping you'd agree to visit - at least see Jutrand. If things go well, we can plan for a trip to Eshan. I'd love to be the one to show you both planets.>

Quinn counted on her fingers as she knew traveling to the outer rim from the Core would take some time. She also didn't want to feel like she was rushing Serina. After a brief calculation, Quinn was able to respond.

Quinn: <As for visiting, I know it takes some time to travel from the Core, so in roughly a month's time, is that alright with you? I don't mind talking on here and getting to know each other to pass the time. I've truly enjoyed our conversation. I hope you can escape your structured life and galavant with me on Jutrand.>

She chuckled softly, trying to not think of the possibility that Serina was indeed a Jedi.

Quinn: < Maybe I can tempt you to stay and break the rigidity of your life? Either way, I look forward to meeting you, Serina. I'm sure you'll be even more stunning in person.>

The message made a woosh sound as it shipped off; Quinn stared out the window and watched as the buildings passed leading up to her estate.

One Monthish Later
//: Jutrand //:
//: Attire //:

Quinn stood quietly at the starport. It was a rare moment when she had none of her ladies in waiting surrounding her or a guard lingering in the distance. She didn't want to announce who she was to Serina just yet. Quinn wanted to know what it felt like to have someone meet her as just Quinn and not Princess of Eshan or a Varanin. The latter would have caused issues if Serina had picked up the history of the name. Since the woman hadn't said anything about it yet, Quinn was confident she could fly a bit longer under the radar.

Looking at her wrist, she figured the shuttle from the core world Serina was traveling from would be arriving soon. She was nervous, despite having exchanged messages the entire time along with photos verification that Quinn was who she was and vice versa. In her hands was a single rose currently being suffocated from the Echani woman's tight grip on its stem. Luckily, the flower was sturdy enough to survive the anxiety grip. Quinn began to pace, then stopped suddenly, remembering that Jutrand tended to have difficult security checks. A hand tapped her forehead as she knew one of the biggest secrets she kept from Serina would be the ticket for the woman to get onto Jutrand without trouble.

Removing her device from her pocket, she quickly sent a message.

Quinn: < Jutrand can be problematic for travelers from the Core. When you're asked by security, mention you're my guest, make sure to use my title…>

The message was sent, and Quinn found herself hesitating. Never before had she been ashamed or embarrassed of who she was. Her royal stature provided her with privilege, and Serina would get a front-row seat to it. Her title would be all that Serina would learn today—maybe in the future, she would discover the familial ties the young Princess has with the Empire's elite.

Quinn: <Princess Quinn Varanin of Eshan.>

Shoving the device into her skirt's pocket, Quinn waited as her anxiety threatened to spill over.

 

[Serina Calis]

Location: In transit.
Tag: Quinn Varanin

Serina sat quietly in the corner of the shuttle, her datapad cradled in her hands. The hum of the engines was a steady backdrop to her swirling thoughts. She had spent the last few weeks trying to balance her rigorous Jedi training with the thrill of her ongoing correspondence with Quinn. The journey to Jutrand felt surreal, an indulgence she would have never allowed herself before Rakata Prime.

Two guards sat across from her, Old Guard Sith soldiers, veterans of countless campaigns, almost recognizably known to be under the employ of Reicher Vax , who the Sith knew as Lieutenant of the Sith Army, Governor of Polis Massa, but Serina knew as brother-in-law. They would keep her safe.

But she wasn't the same person she had been. She had died and returned. She had tasted the Dark Side, felt its whispers promising power and freedom. If she could defy death itself, surely she could defy the expectations that shackled her to the Jedi Order. This was her choice—her chance to step away, even if just for a moment, and glimpse a life beyond the structured walls of the Temple.

Her datapad chirped softly, pulling her attention to the new message from Quinn. She opened it, and as her eyes scanned the words, her breath caught.

Princess Quinn Varanin of Eshan.

The title hit her like a sudden gust of wind. A Princess? The revelation made her heart race, not out of intimidation but out of intrigue. Quinn had been so down-to-earth, so genuine in their conversations. The title was unexpected, but it didn't change the person she had come to know.

Serina exhaled slowly, centering herself as the Force swirled faintly around her. Titles and status were constructs of the galaxy, and while they carried weight, they didn't define a person. Quinn was still the woman who had brightened her days and invited her to explore a part of the galaxy she'd never seen.

Fingers tapping lightly against the datapad, Serina composed her reply.

Serina: <Princess, huh? I have to admit, I didn't see that coming. I've been talking to royalty this whole time and had no idea. You've hidden it well, Quinn.>

She smiled softly, letting a touch of humor seep into her message.

Serina: <I don't know what's more intimidating—the fact that you're a Princess or the fact that I might have to call you that in person. But in all seriousness, thank you for letting me know. It doesn't change how much I've enjoyed getting to know you.>

She hesitated for a moment, then added a touch of her own vulnerability.

Serina: <I'll admit, this is a bit overwhelming. I'm not exactly someone who brushes shoulders with royalty, but I'm honored to be your guest. And don't worry—I'll be on my best behavior.>

The shuttle's comm system crackled, announcing their imminent arrival at Jutrand. Serina glanced out the viewport, the sprawling cityscape coming into view. Her heart raced—not with fear, but with anticipation.

With a steadying breath, she sent one last message.

Serina: <I'm almost there. I can't wait to meet you in person, Quinn—Princess or not.>

The datapad was set aside as she rose from her seat, straightening her simple but neatly pressed Jedi robes. For a fleeting moment, she wondered if the structured life she'd been born into had prepared her for this. But then she dismissed the thought. She wasn't here as a Jedi.

She was here as Serina.

And for now, that was enough.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Serina Calis //:
//: Jutrand //:
//: Attire //:

Another shuttle came and went. Quinn's brow furrowed as she would have liked to know precisely what Core planet Serina was coming from. It would have made planning more manageable. There were hundreds of planets to claim the Core as their location, but Quinn could respect the desire for anonymity. Unlike the Princess, Serina seemed to have better etiquette on the holonet. Once again, Quinn paced back and forth, letting her mind twist events into different realities. This could all be a massive mistake; who knows, maybe Serina was an assassin, and Quinn invited her into her home.

The thought made the Princess laugh, remembering how she had met her first. Assassin or not, she was safe either way. Having trained heavily in the Force since childhood, like some of her peers, she had reached Masterhood quickly.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the chirp of her datapad, and slowly, she took the device from her pocket. A few messages waited for her, and Quinn, being the doomer she was, dreaded opening them. Thankfully, her anxiety was dispelled by the positive messages she had gotten from Serina. Quinn chuckled softly as she read through them and responded quickly.

Quinn: < I promise you don't have to call me it if you don't want to. Getting to know someone who couldn't quite place my name or my face has been a pleasure - so I appreciate it. But you now know my status and can understand why I decided to keep it quiet until now. Though I should have probably been more honest, I promise to do that in the future.>

It was a brief time, but Quinn truly appreciated being able to be a normal person for once. Many ask why the Echani Princess was on Jutrand or within the Sith Empire, especially when the planet was governed and protected by the Galactic Alliance. It was a sore subject, but it was the best in the circumstances that were at play. Thinking of home, Quinn hoped her sister and her family were doing well. Unfortunately for her and her estrangement from the royal family - Quinn hadn't met her nieces and nephews.

Burning the feelings deep, Quinn sighed and composed herself. She didn't want to cry or be angry when first meeting Serina.

Quinn: < I'm glad nothing has changed, I appreciate it. And don't think about it too much, I'm just Quinn, and that's all that matters. A few shuttles are preparing to port. Are you close?>

Her nerves were getting the best of her, and Quinn could feel her feet getting cold. She needed to persist, and if anything, she needed to focus on the joys of meeting someone new.

Quinn: < Do continue to travel safely; I'll see you soon.>

 

[Serina Calis]

Location: In transit.
Tag: Quinn Varanin

Serina read Quinn's messages as the shuttle began its slow descent toward the port. She couldn't help but smile, though there was a nervous edge to her excitement. The weeks of chatting with Quinn had been a strange but welcome reprieve from the weight of her life. Now, standing on the precipice of meeting her in person, she felt that familiar tightness in her chest, a mix of exhilaration and apprehension.

Her fingers danced over the datapad as she typed her response, her thoughts trying to keep pace with her emotions.

Serina: <Quinn, you don't need to explain. I understand why you kept it quiet, and I think I respect you even more for it. Status or not, you've been so real with me, and that's what matters most. You're not just a title—you're someone I've genuinely enjoyed getting to know.>

She glanced out the viewport as the shuttle drew closer to the landing zone, the sprawling skyline of Jutrand bathed in a warm, golden light. Serina took a deep breath, steadying herself. Her life had been a series of careful decisions and calculated risks, but this—meeting someone entirely outside her world—felt more daring than anything she'd done before.

Serina: <I'm close now. The shuttle is just about to dock, and I'll be stepping off in a few moments. You'll finally get to see me in person—so I hope I live up to the impression you've formed!>

Her smile turned slightly playful as she added another line.

Serina: <And don't worry, I'll stick to "just Quinn." Titles or no, I'm looking forward to meeting you.>

As the shuttle landed with a soft hiss and the passengers began gathering their belongings, Serina tucked her datapad away. She adjusted her Jedi robes, wishing she had something a bit less structured to wear, but there was no undoing it now. The doors opened, and the bustle of the starport greeted her. Four Old Guard Sith soldiers filed out first, preparing her a pathway to walk through, as if she herself was the empress of the galaxy just for that very moment.

Her heart pounded as she stepped out, her sharp blue eyes scanning the crowd. She didn't know exactly what she was looking for, but her gaze caught on a woman standing alone, her silver hair catching the light, a single rose in her hands. It was Quinn.

Serina stopped for just a moment, letting the sight sink in, then made her way toward her. As she approached, she offered a warm smile, her voice steady but filled with a hint of warmth.

"Quinn?" she asked, though she already knew the answer.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Serina Calis //:
//: Jutrand //:
//: Attire //:

Quinn caught the messages as the shuttle was docking at the starport. She didn't respond, figuring the woman couldn't look at it as she disembarked the shuttle. Quinn wasn't aware of how travel was for commoners. She had heard horror stories about travel from others, and on the holonet, it seemed staff typically rushed travelers off, wanting to maintain their tight schedules. Knowing this, she hoped Serina didn't have to deal with that treatment. Quinn made a note to ensure that Serina was put on a private shuttle home - ensuring she got home properly and treated correctly.

She had the money; there was no reason not to spend it. There was a part of her that was frustrated by her oversight. Quinn should have garnered a private shuttle for the trip to Jutrand as well, though that would have just made things suspicious. There was too much to think about now, after the fact.

Quinn. Her brain scrambled the thoughts it was thinking, chiding her for the shortcomings of this visit. Hearing her name, startled her slightly. The voice was feminine; few would call her by her first name without a title. Turning, Quinn quickly looked upon the blonde head of the shorter woman she had been corresponding with.

"Serina?" The Echani Princess questioned, although knowing that the woman who had said her name was her holonet admirer. "I hope your travels were nice; you are pretty far from the Core." Quinn smiled and remembered the flower she had been strangling the time waiting for Serina to arrive. Quickly, with the aid of the Force, Quinn revitalized the rose and beckoned it to blossom beautifully. The red rose fully opened as Quinn handed it to Serina. "I brought this for you," Quinn blushed softly to the tip of her nose. "A little corny, I know, but I saw it on my way here and thought it was beautiful."

Quinn did her best to quiet her nerves, her hand gently held onto the locket that hung around her neck. A habit she should break, knowing that the locket held power no longer. Still, the security she felt from it kept the Princess center. Looking at Serina, she made note of the girl's attire. The robes screamed Jedi, and Quinn tilted her head and began walking, ushering the blonde woman to follow close to her. "You're safe with me on Jutrand, so you can also be honest." She started; Quinn had revealed her secret, and now it was time for her to get clarification from Serina.

"You're from the Core, so I'm assuming Coruscant, and by the robes, I'm assuming Jedi?" As they exited the starport, she asked, "It doesn't matter to me despite being a teacher at the Jutrand Sith Academy and living in the Sith Capital." Quinn continued, offering her hand, "It's not a big deal, but it's better, I know, so if someone decides to be foul, the situation could be handled accordingly. You're safe, I promise." Quinn paused and stood on the sidewalk near the black speeder they would escort for the day in Jutrand. "Though if you don't feel safe and want to leave, you're more than welcome to, I'll pay for a private shuttle to return you to Coruscant." her eyes fell from Serina, knowing that this could be the quick end she had been dreading. "I would like you to stay, though, I have some things planned, and if it gets too late, you're welcome to stay at my estate."

 

[Serina Calis]

Location: Jutrand
Tag: Quinn Varanin

Serina took the rose with both hands, her blue eyes lighting up as the vibrant red petals seemed to bloom in her grip. For a moment, she was speechless, her mind racing with how perfectly this gesture captured the warmth and thoughtfulness she had come to know in Quinn.

"A red rose?" she murmured, her voice soft and warm. "How did you know? They're my favorite flower." She looked up at Quinn, her lips curving into a playful smile. "You are making me a very happy woman."

She brushed a strand of golden hair behind her ear, holding the rose close as they began walking together. The starport's bustling sounds faded slightly as the two made their way toward the waiting speeder.

"Thank you for this," she said, her tone sincere. "It's not corny at all. It's beautiful, and it's going straight into a vase the moment I get back to Coruscant." Her smile shifted, her eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief. "Though if you keep doing things like this, I might get the wrong idea about you, Princess."

She let the title roll off her tongue with a teasing lilt, the formality now a playful part of their dynamic rather than a barrier.

As they walked, Serina caught the subtle tension in Quinn's movements, the slight hesitations in her voice. She stopped briefly, placing a reassuring hand on Quinn's arm. "You don't have to worry about me," she said softly. "I promise, my transportation and security are all handled—meticulously so, in fact. My brother-in-law, Governor Reicher Vax of Polis Massa, ensured that everything was arranged privately. He's...thorough when it comes to my safety. It's like having a personal fleet without the fanfare." She gestured to the security detail she had, standing at attention near her shuttle.

She laughed lightly, hoping to ease Quinn's worries. "I know what you're thinking—'a Jedi with her own security detail?' But my family's...complicated. Let's just say I'm used to the added attention."

Serina's tone turned thoughtful as Quinn's earlier words sank in. "And yes, you're right. I am a Jedi," she admitted, her voice calm and without hesitation. "But you don't have to worry about that either. I've met plenty of Sith in my time—far more than a Padawan probably should." She shot Quinn a sly look. "Let's just say I've learned that the galaxy isn't as black and white as the Jedi like to teach us. Honestly? I think the Sith are far more inclusive than the Order. You embrace differences, individuality, passion—things the Jedi try to suppress. That's...admirable."

Her hand lingered on the rose as she glanced at Quinn, her voice dipping slightly, becoming more flirtatious. "And now I'm here, walking through a Sith capital, holding a rose given to me by a Princess. I think that makes me the most scandalous Jedi on Coruscant, don't you?"

She stepped closer, her gaze locking with Quinn's, her tone playful but charged. "I'd say I'm safe with you. Safer than I've ever been, actually. Though I have to admit, it's not every day a Jedi gets invited to stay at a Sith Princess's estate. You're full of surprises, Quinn."

As they reached the sleek black speeder, Serina turned to Quinn, her expression softening again. "But really, thank you for making me feel so welcome. It means more than I can say. And don't worry—I'm not going anywhere. I can't wait to see what you have planned."

She paused, the playful spark returning to her eyes as she leaned in just slightly. "Though I hope some of those plans involve more roses. You're setting a very high bar, Princess."

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Serina Calis //:
//: Jutrand //:
//: Attire //:

The explanation about the security detail made Quinn tilt her head. It was interesting the connections the young woman had within the Sith Order. How was Serina with the New Jedi and the Galactic Alliance? They were questions that Quinn would have to eventually ask. Though knowing her luck, the woman beside her is actually an embedded Sith spy stationed within the Alliance. Tilting her head, she thought about how funny the galaxy was with the connections of people. "The Governor of Polis Massa, he was recently appointed, wasn't he?" She questioned, which made this timing too perfect.

Pushing away the awkward thoughts from her mind, Serina seemed to know what to say to her. As they approached the speeder, a man stepped out of the vehicle and quickly opened the door for the woman. "Your Highness," He bowed his head to Quinn and then to Serina. He waited until both entered and closed the door behind Quinn as she finally entered. "He already has our itinerary. First, I thought it would be fun to see the academy since you asked about it. Have some tea in my office - let you have a moment to breathe from your trip."

She thought quietly as they drove about the information that Serina had mentioned about the philosophy of the Jedi. She hadn't really thought about the Force nor its philosophy. In a sense, the girl sounded like a preacher, but most Jedi were. Smiling, she offered her hand for Serina to hold if she desired.

"You are a very scandalous Jedi," Quinn teased as she suddenly remembered something specific on their route. "Oh, can we stop at the next corner? I'd like to get out." The driver looked back, confused, but he obliged the princess. "If you like roses, I have an idea." Quinn smiled; she remembered a small park with a clearing, and with her slight affinity to plant surge, she could hopefully impress her date for the afternoon. "Come on." Quinn grabbed Serina's hand, guided her gently out of the car, and began to walk. She didn't say much but knew exactly where she wanted to take her.

They passed through the small, old gate and walked along a worn stone road. The sound of Quinn's heels tapped gently with each step, followed by the sound of Serina's footsteps. The trees and bushes began to thicken as they moved deeper into the foliage. "This is my favorite place on Jutrand; I hide here when I just want to listen to the world around me." As she finished, she pushed through the thin branches that acted like a barrier between them and the Princess' sanctuary. "Watch your head," Quinn smiled while warning the blonde and held the branches, allowing Serina to enter first.

In the clearing, hundreds of flowers dotted the bushes, shaded by tall trees that blocked out the artificial lights of the city. Quinn gently guided Serina toward the center of the clearing and smiled. "My mother loved roses as well, so when I found this place, I planted as many rose bushes as possible." Exhaling softly, Quinn focused, and suddenly, the rose bushes began to bloom. All colors ranging from red, pink, and white opened and filled the area with a delicate floral scent. Smiling, Quinn looked to Serina and blushed softly.

"I was hoping you'd like the rose so I could bring you here." Something rustled behind them, and Quinn looked back; it was the driver carrying a small basket and a blanket. When Serina had passed through the gate, Quinn took the opportunity to quickly gather the picnic she had packed for the Academy tour and bring it to her. "We can see the Academy later," she nodded, thanked the man, and then moved back to Serina. "This is a better start than a stuffy Sith school." Carefully, she laid out the blanket and then knelt down with a grace only known to a royal. Her feet were tucked under her body, and she began to pull out glasses, small finger foods, and sweets.

"Join me?" She offered the space beside her on the blanket, hoping this wasn't too much for the Jedi woman.

 

[Serina Calis]

Location: Jutrand
Tag: Quinn Varanin

Serina followed Quinn through the gate, her curiosity growing with each step. The worn stone path, the thickening foliage, and the gentle sounds of their footsteps against the quiet surroundings created an atmosphere so serene that it felt almost surreal. As the artificial lights of the city faded behind them, she found herself glancing at Quinn with an admiring smile. There was something magical about the way the Princess carried herself—confident yet unassuming, elegant but unpretentious.

"This is beautiful," Serina said softly as Quinn guided her deeper into the greenery. She ducked under the branches Quinn held aside, stepping into the clearing. Her breath caught in her throat as she took in the sight before her.

The clearing was like a dream—a hidden sanctuary of roses in every shade imaginable, their blooms vibrant and fragrant. The tall trees around them created a quiet, protective canopy, as though shielding this sacred space from the rest of the galaxy.

When the roses began to bloom in unison, their petals unfurling like a synchronized performance, Serina turned to Quinn, her blue eyes wide with awe.

"Quinn…" she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "This is incredible. You did all this?" She reached out to touch one of the blossoms, her fingers brushing against the soft petals. The floral scent enveloped her, and for a moment, she was utterly captivated.

As Quinn spoke of her mother, Serina's gaze softened. There was a depth to Quinn that she hadn't expected, a connection to this place that went beyond its beauty.

"I love it," Serina said sincerely, her voice warm and filled with emotion. "This is… it's perfect. I don't know what to say, except thank you for sharing this with me." She glanced at Quinn, her tone shifting to something more playful. "Though I have to admit, you've completely outdone me. How am I supposed to impress you now?"

When the driver appeared with the basket and blanket, Serina chuckled softly, shaking her head. "You've really thought of everything, haven't you?"

She watched as Quinn knelt gracefully, setting up the picnic with practiced ease. The scene felt almost too perfect, like something out of a holonovel. But it was real, and that realization made it all the more meaningful.

When Quinn gestured for her to join, Serina didn't hesitate. She knelt beside her, smoothing her Jedi robes as she settled onto the blanket.

"This is definitely better than a stuffy Sith school," Serina agreed, her tone light and teasing. "Though I'd be lying if I said I wasn't curious to see it. Maybe after we've properly indulged in this—" she gestured to the spread of food and the enchanting surroundings, "—we can save the tour for later."

Serina reached for one of the glasses, raising it slightly before looking at Quinn with a mischievous smile. "To roses, secrets, and scandalous Jedi," she said, her voice playful.

As they began to enjoy the picnic, Serina found herself relaxing completely for the first time in what felt like forever. The structure and expectations of her life on Coruscant faded into the background, replaced by the warmth of Quinn's company and the simple joy of being in such a beautiful place.

"You know," Serina said after a moment, her tone turning thoughtful, "I think I could get used to this. Escaping the galaxy, even just for a little while. And having someone like you to share it with…" She trailed off, her cheeks coloring faintly as she glanced at Quinn.

Leaning slightly closer, Serina's voice dipped into something softer, more intimate, yet licentious. "I think you're going to ruin me, Quinn. How am I supposed to go back to Jedi robes and meditation after this?"

Her words carried a teasing edge, but there was a genuine warmth in her gaze. For the first time in a long while, Serina felt free—not as a Jedi, not as someone caught between light and shadow, but as herself. And in that moment, she knew she wouldn't trade this feeling for anything.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Serina Calis //:
//: Jutrand //:
//: Attire //:

Quinn smiled. There was something special about sharing a piece of yourself with someone. The garden they were in, she had never shared with anyone, not even the guards. Typically, the poor men were shouting her name as she hid silently. Quinn sipped the light white wine she had poured for them, listening to what Serina said. It was interesting how easily the Jedi could give in to temptation. The Princess grinned as she glanced at the blonde over the rip of the glass. Serina was an interesting character; there was something sweet about her - but shrouded in mystery.

With her eyes gazing over the woman in front of her, the Echani couldn't help but indulge herself in the beauty of the mysterious Jedi. She had decided to cross danger willingly to explore the nature of the Princess. "You're sweet," the Princess said, placing her glass down. She reached out and caressed the top of Serina's fair hand. Her fingers gently intertwined with Serina's as she listened to the woman continue to compliment her.

Serina leaned towards the Echani, and Quinn found herself following suit. There was something that drew her into the young Jedi's gaze. Quinn whispered back, grinning as she leaned closer, letting her cheek lightly graze the woman's cheek. Serina's cheek was warm, and Quinn relished in the gentle touch as she stayed close, softly her whisper brushed against the other woman's cheek. "No one says you have to go back," Pulling away enough to look at the young woman, the Princess let her eyes look over her again.

All their talks and confessions with each other had led to this moment. Quinn often wondered what Serina would be like and if they would like each other. So many people were different than they were on the holonet, but Serina was perfect. She had been exactly the same as she was in the messages. Quinn remained close as she took in everything that was Serina Calis.

Leaning back in, Quinn caught the gentle scent of the girl's perfume mixing with the floral aroma of the rose garden. She smiled again, wondering if she was going too far. Pausing slightly, Quinn let her hand hold Serina's, hoping the next thing she desired was welcomed. "You're beautiful," Quinn whispered as if no one else was allowed to hear it.

Hesitation gone, Quinn leaned in, gently pressing her lips against Serina's. The kiss was gentle as she tested the waters. It was short and sweet as she pulled away. Her cheeks flushed as she laughed nervously. "I hope that was okay and I didn't overstep."

 

[Serina Calis]

Location: Jutrand
Tag: Quinn Varanin

Serina froze, the world narrowing to a pinpoint as Quinn's lips brushed hers. The soft pressure, the warmth of the touch—it was unlike anything she had ever felt. Time seemed to stop in the clearing, the scent of roses mingling with the faint citrus and floral notes of Quinn's perfume. The artificial lights of Jutrand, the ever-present whispers of the Force, even the weight of her Jedi training—all of it faded into a quiet hum at the edges of her awareness.

Her first kiss.

For a moment, she forgot to breathe. Her hands, usually so steady and controlled, trembled faintly where they rested in Quinn's grasp. Her mind reeled, caught somewhere between disbelief and a strange, overwhelming sense of joy.

It was so simple. So unexpected. So perfect.

Serina's blue eyes remained wide as Quinn pulled back, the gentle laughter and blush on the Echani's face pulling Serina halfway back to reality. Her lips tingled from the kiss, a phantom sensation that seemed to linger even after it ended. She touched her free hand to her mouth, her fingers brushing lightly against her lips as though trying to confirm the moment had truly happened.

For all her training, all her ambition, and the certainty she carried about her place in the galaxy, Serina Calis had never felt this unprepared. Her thoughts raced, a thousand conflicting emotions surging through her, yet no words formed on her tongue.

Quinn's nervous question finally broke through the haze, grounding her in the present. Serina looked at the woman before her, this elegant, enigmatic Princess who had been nothing but kind, thoughtful, and utterly disarming.

Slowly, Serina's lips curved into a soft, trembling smile. Her hand, still held by Quinn's, tightened slightly, as if anchoring herself to the moment.

She didn't speak. Not yet.

Instead, she leaned forward, her forehead gently pressing against Quinn's. It was a gesture born of instinct rather than thought, a quiet acknowledgment that words couldn't capture what she felt. Her eyes closed, and for a moment, she simply stayed there, feeling the warmth of Quinn's presence, the steady rhythm of her breathing.

Serina exhaled slowly, her voice finally emerging, barely above a whisper. "That was…" She paused, unable to find the words, her throat tightening with emotion. Her hand shifted slightly, her fingers brushing against Quinn's as if trying to communicate what she couldn't say aloud.

When she opened her eyes, they shimmered faintly with unshed tears—not of sadness, but of something deeper, something more profound. Gratitude. Wonder. Joy.

"I've never…" she began, her voice faltering as a soft, nervous laugh escaped her. "That was my first."

Her cheeks flushed as she looked at Quinn, the admission hanging in the air between them. "I… I didn't know it could feel like that."

She looked down briefly, gathering herself, then back at Quinn, her gaze steady and filled with a quiet, vulnerable intensity. "You didn't overstep," she said finally, her voice firm but gentle. "Not at all."

A small, almost shy smile crossed her lips as she added, "You're the first person who's ever made me feel like this. Like I can just…be."

Her hand moved, brushing lightly against Quinn's cheek before pulling back, unsure but yearning. "Thank you," she said softly, the words carrying a weight that went far beyond the moment.

In the silence that followed, Serina let herself savor the peace of the clearing, the beauty of the roses, and the company of someone who had given her a glimpse of something she hadn't realized she needed. She didn't know what the future held—how this would fit into the fractured, complex life she led—but for now, in this moment, none of that mattered.

What mattered was Quinn. What mattered was this.

And for Serina, that was enough.