Star Wars Roleplay: Chaos

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What legacy shall I leave behind, when I return to the Manda?
Will I be remembered as a hero, a savior, a great unifier? Or will my name be reviled as that of another betrayer to my people, a loathsome and accursed name doomed to be forgotten by all?
Do I perform such mighty deeds out of true heroism, or do I merely chase glory, desperate to be remembered?

Those thoughts had been haunting Jenn ever since she took the mantle of Alor of Clan Kryze, carrying the burden of leadership with an undeniable measure of nobility. Once a humble and contented metalsmith, the Mandalorian rose from relative obscurity as repeated clashes finally led to an open war between the Enclave for whom she had dedicated many years of her life... and the immense might of the Galactic Alliance, the sole claimant to the title of superpower. Unlike those who proudly accepted the designation of Crusader, her own zeal was tempered with compassion - and, in the end, her eyes were opened to the painful truth: her people had become naught but bloodthirsty raiders putting on airs, cloaking themselves in self-righteousness as they pretended to the prestigious honor and glory they were once known for. Thoroughly disheartened (and equally disgusted) by that realization, Jenn led her people in a self-imposed exile from the Mandalorian Enclave, keeping to the northern edges of the charted regions of the galaxy as they erred in search of meaning.​
What had once been a broken Clan with few living survivors was reinvigorated by her efforts, as the force of Jenn's will proved to be nothing short of titanic. She had gathered to her banner ruthless mercenaries and dishonored murderers alike and turned them into saviors and heroes, their loyalty to her so great that they followed her without question as they threw themselves against the Dark Empire's elite brutetroopers. Resolute and cunning, the Alor proved to be an atypical ruler, for a Mandalorian; her claim to the mantle of leadership was rooted in her unique vision, rather than her skill as a duelist.​
With the Dark Empire pushed off of Onderon (or, as some theorized, marking a retreat after accomplishing whatever goal they had for the world) and the remnants of its forces left stranded on the planet hunted down, a mere warlord would seize the opportunity to loot the world or take it over for their own, with its royal guard all but broken. Jenn, however, set out to win over the population. In the capital of Iziz, the mighty warriors of Clan Kryze rescued those still trapped in the debris, distributed supplies and ensured a bloodless resolution to any unrest; on more than one occasion, those who once stood on the battlefield against the Alliance worked alongside its forces to better aid the local populace, if begrudgingly.​
The presence of beskar-clad warriors on Onderon was bound to draw the attention of the queen eventually. The brutal and sudden assault by the invaders may have left the royal guard with but few surviving members, but the reigning monarch certainly had no to let a large group of warriors answering to none but themselves unaccounted for. Before she could hope to coordinate efforts between her surviving forces and any aid the Galactic Alliance may be willing to give her to confront the Mandalorians, however, a lone messenger arrived at the palace, carrying word from the Alor of Clan Kryze.​
And with it, a humble request for an audience.​
Onderon was no strangers to Mandalorians, having once counted Veshok Rook Veshok Rook and his kin among them. The memory they held of those Mandalorians, however, did little to prepare the monarch for Jenn. Although no stranger to politics, if only because of the demands of leadership, the Alor was markedly unskilled (and equally uninterested) in the matters of etiquette and proper form. No, the woman who stood before the sovereign was a warrior, her armor and flesh still marked by the scars of the conflict, and she spoke as a warrior. And it was because of this earnestness that the two reached an accord.​
Although her intent had always been to save the lives of her subjects, the Queen's orders for the remaining military forces to lay down their arms and the citizenry to comply left the seeds of bitterness in the hearts of many - particularly those brave souls who chose to make a stand against their oppressors... and with Onderon's might crippled in the wake of such a brutal, if short-lived occupation, the sovereign's fears of unrest were bound to be realized. Not content with slaughtering unarmed civilians by firing squads in an effort to crush those pockets of resistance still holding strong, the Empire had seized a significant amount of supplies, equipment, and raw resources from the city and its surroundings. That several of those shipments had been waylaid by the Alliance and Clan Kryze and returned to the people made little difference in the end; mere drops in a bucket.​
Announced a few weeks in advance by royal messengers all throughout Onderon, the Queen planned her first appearance in public following the invasion meticulously: the vast expanse of the palace courtyard was cleared of remaining obstruction, the meager remnants of the royal guards merged with what remained of the armed forces to ensure the safety of the proceedings, and a polite request was sent out for the Alliance's peacekeepers of the Jedi Order to assist. The stage was set; all that remained now was for the Queen to face her subjects...​
... and for Jenn to face the future she was creating for her Clan with her head held high.​
She took some measure of comfort, of course, in the notion that she would not face it alone. In spite of her checkered past, the Alor was not without friends, nor allies - and she very much intended to see them by her side. The invitations were, in truth, as atypical as the Mandalorian herself: rather than merely sending a message through the holonet, the Alor put ink to parchment - and ensured that each and every single invitation invitation was to be delivered directly by hand, carried by the most reliable among her warriors. None other than the legendary Nite Owls, born anew under her rule, would do for such a task. Unnecessary pomp, as some may rightfully point out, especially from a woman so clearly and carefully divorced from the ways of nobility, but then again, she never had cause for such an occasion before.​
None of this explained the shockingly elegant cursive writing, mind. Try as she mind to pretend otherwise, the good Siren was far more comfortable among the very nobility she looked upon with suspicion than she ever cared to admit! How else could one explain the fact that she counted a Princess, a King and a Queen among those who held her respect, in spite of her pointedly dismissive view of the very concept of hereditary rule?​
That she even accepted to work so closely with the Queen of Onderon spoke of a degree of pragmatism some outsiders thought her people all but incapable of, and not a little humility as well. That, too, the aruetiise thought to be beyond the Mando'ade.​
Not all of them.
The ceremony was yet to start, but the courtyard was already crowded by the Queen's subjects... and, to the surprise of some, a vast amount of Mandalorians, their armor still marked by battle. If the warriors of blue and white cared for the odd looks they received, none of them cared to show it, waiting patiently for the sovereign to make her appearance. Jenn, for her part, worked on her breathing as she waited to be given the go-ahead, looking down at herself with a faint smile. Forgemistress like herself could certainly have repaired the damage done to her armor before such a grand event, to be sure - but she held no shame for the marks left by war on beskar and flesh alike. No, they were reminders of her service to Onderon, and the fearlessness of her assault during the heavy fighting. Jumping out of a burning transport to engage the best the Empire had to throw at them would have left a lesser woman six feet under.​
A blip on her helmet alerted her to the arrival of the transport before the roar of the engines or the rapidly-approaching shape could. Escorted by no less than four interceptors, the dropship quickly touched down onto a landing platform on the other side of the courtyard, out of sight, if not out of mind. As the ramp of the transport lowered, the Nite Owls stepped out, standing to the sides to let the honored guests through and onto the pad proper before linking up with the detachment of royal guards sent by the Queen to escort their charges to their destination. The honored guests were given a privileged position at the foot of the stairs leading towards the small plaza preceding the palace gates proper. A front-row seat if there ever was one - rubbing shoulders with Onderon's high society.​
Soon, the sound of trumpets filled the air; a fanfare familiar to the people of Onderon, for it announced the imminent arrival of their monarch. First came the musicians, clad in colorful garbed; then, followed the royal guardsmen in their light, if no less elegant armor, bearing their signature laser lances high... and lastly, the Queen finally made her appearance, clad in the traditional attire befitting her status. Cheers erupted from the crowd at the sight of her, watching as she carried herself with all of the presence and dignity of a monarch, lips curling into a smile at the sight of her people welcoming her with clear enthusiasm. As the musicians finished their fanfare and stood at attention, the Royal Guard slammed the base of their lances against the ground, the sound heard even over the adulation of the people assembled in the outer courtyard - and claiming their deferent silence.​
"Children of Onderon!" she called out, her voice carrying with surprising ease. "My heart soars at the sight of you all. Bloodied, yes, but unbroken, and proud. Even when faced with insurmountable odds, some among you chose the path of resistance! Your courage eclipses that of those who come before you, and shames those of us who chose submission over death." She marked a pause, then, taking in the guilt on the faces of some, the resentment on others... and, for a few, a grim determination.​
"Now is not a time for recriminations. Do not cast your ire on your neighbors, but know this; we will repay the Dark Empire in blood for what they have done... in due time. The invaders have left us not merely massacred, but plundered as well. If not for the aid of outsiders, our situation would be most dire indeed; for this, I owe thanks to the brave intervention of our neighbors in the Galactic Alliance, as well as the New Jedi Order." Her gaze turned towards the Jedi in attendance at that, her gratitude practically etched over her features, if for but a moment.​
"But the soldiers of the Alliance were not the only outsiders to assist us in our time of need. No, another group came to our aid, unbidden and expecting naught in recompense for their valor; even now, they remain among us, dedicated and true in their efforts to see us rebuild and recover from our losses. In recognition of such deeds, I believe the time has come to truly welcome the Mandalorians of Clan Kryze among us."
Jenn had never felt so many eyes on her before, but it was too late for her to go back - or to even think of slipping her helmet back on to grant herself some measure of separation. Stepping onto the plaza proper, the Mandalorian felt her heartbeat thumping in her ears with every step she took, stopping before the Queen as she drew her beskad... and knelt before her, offering the blade to the monarch. Slowly, purposefully, the ruler's fingers closed around the grip, lifting it up to hang above the kneeling Alor.​
"Jenn Kryze, mindful of your prowess upon the field and the honor you carry with you, I am minded to admit you as a Knight of Onderon. Will you accept this honor?"
"I will."
"Do you swear that you will henceforth comport yourself as befit a peer of my realm, as you most surely have until now, and that you will attempt in all of your endeavors to be a noble example to the people of Onderon?"
"I do."
"Do you promise further to uphold the laws and tradition of the Kingdom of Onderon?
"I do."
"Do you swear fealty to me, my crown, and the throne and Kingdom of Onderon?"
There was the slightest pause, then, the flat side of the beskad resting on her shoulder still. Jenn had been given ample time to consider the proposition before the ceremony itself, and spent many nights pacing around her tent anxiously, her values warring with the needs of her people. Ever since she made the mantle of Alor her own, the Mandalorian reminded all who came before her that Clan Kryze knew no masters; they refused to bow before the so-called Mand'alor the Rekindler, just as they refused to submit themselves to the Galactic Alliance. To bend the knee would doubtlessly grant stability to her people... but no small amount of discomfort at the thought of their absolute freedom coming to a close.​
"I do", she continued, her voice practically brimming with power.​
"Then I name you henceforth Knight-Commander of the Onderonian Rangers, and grant you and your people the highlands to the east to call your own. Arise!"
Doubtful as some of them may be, the Mandalorians in attendance were truly thunderous in their cheers and applause, soon followed by the rest of the populace. And, for all of her misgivings, Jenn felt naught but pride as she rose to her feet, taking the beskad offered to her by the Queen with a bow, stepping off the plaza as she returned the blade to her belt, digesting the magnitude of the events that just unfolded- even as the crowd kept on celebrating, and the sovereign walked away from the courtyard and towards the city itself for a parade, royal guard in tow.​
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Hey everyone, and thank you for reading this far! This thread is meant to be a social thread about Jenn and her clan settling down on Onderon. Join on in to socialize and learn more!

 
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Iziz, Royal Plaza
Onderon
The Dark Empire had fallen here.

Tactical retreat or full-blown defeat, it didn't matter. The people of Onderon stood proudly, resolute despite the attack on their home. Thanks to their own bravery. Thanks to the Jedi. And, most importantly today, thanks to Clan Kryze.

Alicio thought back to his conversation with the Alor, alongside Valery Noble Valery Noble and Varys Amun Varys Amun . Jenn had been on the verge of abandoning the galaxy entirely after her self-imposed exile, convinced that she couldn't make a difference, that her and hers would never be safe surrounded by enemies on all sides.

Alicio was almost certain Jenn was overjoyed to be proven wrong on both accounts.

The King of Alderaan sat amongst the other allies and friends of Alor Kryze, the blue highlights of his outfit shining in the Onderonian sun. He watched on with a simple smile as Jenn was honored by the Queen, and stood and clapped as the rest did. And as the Mandalorian stepped away from the plaza, and Mandalorians began to converge on her location, no doubt to give raucous congratulations, she would find Alicio there first.

Future-vision had many uses. Like knowing when and where he needed to be.

"So, Knight-Commander," Alicio said, a smirk growing on his face as he remembered their discussion. "This is what a hundred warriors can do, in the grand scheme of things. I must say, seems like a pretty good scheme to me."

"Well done, Jenn."
He held out a congratulatory hand to shake.

- Jenn Kryze Jenn Kryze -
 
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| Location | Iziz, Royal Plaza - Onderon
| Objective | Celebrate success, and life!


Jenn had not quite felt so elated in years. This was not quite the raw, savage joy she experienced in all things martial, but a glorious feeling of victory nonetheless. Relief washed over her at the thought that she had achieved something great, and a certain measure of pride as her gaze went from one friend to another, her lips curling into a smile. Her path was fraught with peril, but it never had been a lonely one, and for that, she was grateful for her many blessings.​
So many people coming to see her, to congratulate her, to share their pride in her determination - it was, admittedly, overwhelming. Alicio's arrival gave her something to focus onto, joyous laughter escaping her as he spoke of past words shared. "I couldn't have done it without you, Alicio!" spoke the Mandalorian with a grin, reaching out to give him a firm handshake. How far along they had come, from one keeping the other hostage to... well, to the monarch clearly standing with pride alongside someone he seemed to treat as a peer.​
Clearly, she would need to properly return the favor one day, and stick her own neck out for him and his people in return.​
"I think of the words we shared in B'yaim Haar Cabur often, you know", admitted the Knight-Commander with a thoughtful nod. "You helped me see things for what they really were, back then. I don't think I ever thanked you for that. I... owe a great debt to you, for helping me face the truth of what I had become. Thank you, Alicio. I hope one day, I can be as stalwart a friend as you have been for me."
 
The proceedings went by swiftly, but that did not make the ceremony any less auspicious.

It hadn't been very long ago that she'd first met Jenn Kryze Jenn Kryze . Cora's first impressions of the Nite Owl were not pleasant - but that hadn't been Jenn's fault. The sight of any Mandalorian helm would've caused her to bristle.

She hadn't imagined that a day like this would come. A day where she'd be counted among her allies, smiling proudly as Jenn received a well-deserved distinction for her services to Onderon.

As the Queen dubbed her a Knight of Onderon, Cora found herself focusing on the cadence of her speech, the well placed pauses in her delivery. There was an art to speaking, and there was an art to speaking like a Queen.

The ceremony ended, and Cora mingled her way towards Jenn. Alicio Organa Alicio Organa had found an opportune moment to relay his congratulations, and she didn't want to crowd the Alor, waiting until there was an appropriate time to approach.

When she did, she acknowledged the King of Alderaan with a nod and a polite smile. Then, she turned to face the redhead. The Princess offered her a deep bow, flowing skirts sweeping to the side as she curtsied.


"An honor well deserved. Onderon couldn’t have asked for a more dutiful Knight. I'm proud to have witnessed this moment, Alor Kryze."

Straightening out, Cora fixed her with a smile and produced a small, intricately decorated pouch. She offered it to Jenn with both hands.

"Tea from Ukatis. I've been told that you're partial to this particular blend."

Her smile quirked upward in a wry little note, recalling how Shan Pavond Shan Pavond had relayed the Mandalorian's fondness for the tea.
 
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Speak of the Green Bean and he shall arrive! Shan was stood towards the back of the celebration, trying to feel somewhat comfortable with it all. He wasn't uncomfortable because he was surrounded by Mandalorians. No, no. He was uncomfortable because he couldn't forgive himself for how he used to see the people.

It was a nice ceremony to say the least. And there was a part of him that was incredibly pleased to have been invited to it. Jenn had helped the Padawan to open his eyes to the Galaxy even more and whilst he still thought he was pretty foolish...Well, he didn't think he was blind to the differences in the Galaxy anymore. Everything wasn't clearly black and white as much as he wished it could have been...

But enough of that. It was time for celebration and to have fun! So he finally hurried over towards Jenn Kryze Jenn Kryze as a familiar face ( Corazona von Ascania Corazona von Ascania ) was already speaking to the Mandalorian and offering...tea. Shan's nose wrinkled up at the sight of the pouch. He could never wrap his mind around why people enjoyed the concoction. Alicio Organa Alicio Organa was nearby as well, and whilst Shan wasn't fully familiar with the King of Alderann, he had at least seen him around every now and then.

"I hope you're ready for some singing, if she does drink some of it." He broke out into a little cheeky grin, shoving his hands into his pockets as he looked between everyone. "Congratulations by the way Jenn....I think that's the right thing for me to say, yeah?"
 
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Jenn found herself... well and truly humbled, to be surrounded by friends as she was. Humbled, and, admittedly, profoundly amused! Jedi and monarchs made for an unlikely assortment of guests for a Mandalorian to have, and yet, here she was, completely ignoring the enmity of the past with her choice of friends. And who better to illustrate all of this than the Princess of Ukatis, who walked both paths at once? Even now, she remembered how the two of them found themselves at odds when they first met... as with many others she now called friend.​
"You honor me with your presence, Princess." There was gratefulness in her voice, and a healthy dose of respect as well; the burden resting on the young woman's shoulder was great indeed, and yet she carried herself with all of the majesty one would expect of someone of her station... and her tenure as a Jedi ensured that she would not become divorced from the perspective of those commoners so often forgotten by aristocracy. No, for all of the profound wariness she felt when it came to nobles, Corazona was no tyrant.​
Taking the offered pouch with a slow lift of her brows, the Alor's lips curled into a grin as she was informed on its contents by the Jedi, her gaze flicking up to her as she opened her mouth to answer- only for the purveyor of that little factoid about her to make his entrance! Laughter escaped her throat, then, musical and true, as she shot Shan a grin. "I suppose I should thank you for telling her about my fondness for that particular blend, mmh? I appreciate it, Shan - and thank you for coming, too."
 
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Jenn Kryze Jenn Kryze / Corazona von Ascania Corazona von Ascania / Shan Pavond Shan Pavond / Alicio Organa Alicio Organa

Huh? Oh! The thing started and all Colette seemed to do was stare out into the big wide forests of Onderon with no small measure of curiosity. Yes, she could come here and do the thing, but what were the odds that Colette would get the chance to roam these forests on any other day? She didn't exactly count the Mandalorians amongst people she held much respect for even if one of them seemed nice and clever enough to warrant some beneficials and a doubt.

Wait, was it already over? Shit. Shit, okay. Colette straightened her back and played it cool. She was talking to Shan and Corazona already. Alicio too, but Colette didn't actually know him as much as know of him.

Colette approached the group.

"They've done something wise today." She said and tried to pretend she knew what it was that had truly just happened. "You are a good person for this job."

… Probably.
 
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| Location | Iziz, Royal Plaza - Onderon
| Objective | Make merry!


Jenn was, although a little overwhelmed still, thoroughly enjoying the sensation of finding herself surrounded by people who cared. People who wished good fortune upon her and the rest of her people, people who had come all the way to Onderon to present heartfelt congratulations. For all of the trials and tribulations she faced on a near-daily basis, few things were sweeter in life than the glorious feeling that came with victory.​
But, even now, the Alor was reminded of humbler times - times when the burden of leadership did not quite weigh so heavily upon her, and when she was free to roam as she pleased... it was during such a time that she had made the acquaintance of a rather peculiar soul. They hardly agreed on everything, but Colette proved to be an interesting person to talk to; much like herself, the last of the Padawans she had met held a great deal of fondness for the real world, rather than the one of smoke and steel the Galaxy lost itself to so readily.​
So it was that she greeted the Padawan with a warm smile, waving a hand towards the highlands now under her protection. "Not quite the horrible wasteland you and I met one another in, is it?" asked the Mandalorian with a grin, a hint of mischief present in her voice. "I would be glad to have you with us as we explore what is to be the new home of my people."
 



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After listening to Jenn's speech, Valery stepped away but was quickly caught in the crowd. Mandalorians and other onlookers moved all around her, and too many requested a moment of her time to really focus on her friends. She wanted to congratulate Jenn and offer her support, but she had also spotted Alicio and Cora. Even Colette was here, which made Valery wonder — had she ran into the Mandalorian as well?

Luckily, Valery wouldn't have to wait too long to find out.

After maneuvering her way through the crowd, she stopped right behind her daughter and smiled, "Quite the gathering, hm?" she asked before placing a hand on Colette's shoulder. "Jenn is very much the right person for this. She's a good leader and has a kind heart. The people trust her." Valery winked and dipped her head to Jenn.


"It's good to see you again, Jenn."






 
Hm...This gave Shan an idea now as he listened to Jenn talk and even offer to show them around the planet. He'd obviously have to talk to Colette about this plan first. Speaking of Colette, part of him wanted to give her a peck on the cheek but...audiences, large crowds. That was a very dumb idea so he held off it. But for now? He was going to enjoy the time with the group as he took in the sights. It was strange to think how he'd have hated the idea of being here, not so long ago but now he was willing and actually quite enjoying his time here.Though he nodded in response to something that Valery had said.

"Yeah. It's great to see you again Jenn. I'm happy for you. You deserve this." It was nice to say the least. Though he had to keep a mental note to ask Jenn something about the home of her people. Which would be fine. He had a good memory. Shan could remember loads of things. And anything he couldn't remember wasn't important. Totally.

Valery Noble Valery Noble Jenn Kryze Jenn Kryze Colette Colette Corazona von Ascania Corazona von Ascania Alicio Organa Alicio Organa
 
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| Location | Iziz, Royal Plaza - Onderon
| Objective | Make merry, greet the crowd!


The people in attendance varied in their station - from humble Padawans to a newly-crowned King, those honored guests surrounding her came from all walks of life... and yet, the one she called her greatest friend had only ever been just that to her; someone she trusted with all manner of secrets, hopes and fears. Oh, Valery Noble was certainly worthy of the great titles bestowed upon her as Grandmaster of the Jedi Order, or the tales relayed to Jenn of her mighty deeds as the Sword of the Jedi! All of this glory, however, paled before what that woman truly meant to the Knight-Commander of the newly-formed Onderonian Rangers.​
"More than I would have ever thought would attend!" came the Alor's response, her smile honest and true. "But none are quite as uplifting as you are, vod'ika. We've had... quite the journey, haven't we? Here's to many more years of friendship, Valery." The praise was, for all of her pretenses to humility, clearly well received, given the somewhat imperious smirk that soon graced the Ersansyr's features, her gaze flicking back down to Colette as she took in the sight of her friend's hand resting upon the girl's shoulder. This, she could recognize with ease; the sight of a mother's pride, reflected in her own treatment of her adoptive daughter. Her smile grew softer, then, reminded of her first encounter with Valery. The kindness she had shown her. The promise of family, shown to her by one who should, by all accounts, have been her enemy.​
"It's good to see you too. I know your schedule is filled up these days, on account of the war, but- you took the time to come, and I really appreciate it."
Jenn was grateful to Valery for a great many things. She only hoped she could repay the debt she owed to her and her family for all the good she had done her. Before she could find herself all taken up with the solemn matters at hand, however, Shan was quick to bring her back down to the here and now. "Oh, Shan - you are more than welcome to come along if you'd like, of course!"
 
Cora had perfected her plastic, serene smile for formal occasions. The expression she wore now was genuine as she tilted her head in thanks; fine lines creasing around her eyes in honest joy.

She lifted a brow to Shan's comment. "Oh? Singing?" There was a lit of teasing interest in her voice as her eyes traveled back to the siren. "We'll have to partake together, sometime."

More friends filtered in to offer Jenn their congratulations, the familiar faces of Valery and Colette among them. Mandalorians and Jedi may have had a contentious history, but Onderon's newest Knight did not let tradition muddle her strong sense of honor. In a way, Cora found herself looking up to Jenn as an example of someone who did what was best for her people, wading through the fire as she did so.

She glanced between Shan and Colette, a knowing hint in her smile.

It was rare that they'd all gathered together because something good had happened. For once, there was no battle to fight. No problem to solve. Just delight and appreciation to be shared, and for a good reason.

Jenn Kryze Jenn Kryze Shan Pavond Shan Pavond Alicio Organa Alicio Organa Colette Colette
 
Jenn Kryze Jenn Kryze / Valery Noble Valery Noble / Shan Pavond Shan Pavond / Corazona von Ascania Corazona von Ascania

"Sounds great." Colette smiled at Jenn and smiled at Valery as she placed her hand on the girl's shoulder. "Anything that's not Coruscant is good."

She gave Valery a knowing nod to say that she knew Jenn indeed and that it was a wonderful exception to her expectations of a Mandalorian. A lot of Colette's disdain for the culture in general had simmered down since her first time learning of them, everyone had a right to exist after all, but that didn't mean that she was any closer to accepting a warrior culture as a 'thing that needed to exist' or anything like that.

And for a moment she looked over at Shan. She knew what he wanted, and perhaps to some extent she wanted it too, but not now. There was a trip home and a good movie put away for just that occasion which was waiting for them already.

Then she gave Cora a quick wave and a smile. They still had to catch up on some things, but much like with Shan… Now was not the time.
 

In a sun-drenched patch of ground at the edge of the courtyard, a gaggle of children, teenagers and young nobles stood in a loose circle, their faces turned up to gaze at the vast crimson kite which arced above their head, deftly controlled by a young Mandalorian girl. She was a haughty young warrior, daughter of the Queen's newest ally, the Alor. Her name was Varys Amun.

Varys grinned as she leant forward, tucking her arms in and sending the great kite swooping over the heads of the crowd, eliciting shocked gasps and cheers of delight. Varys twirled and opened her arms, causing the kite to soar upwards once again, as if it were an extension of her own body.

It was clear enough that Varys was enjoying the attention. She had done her best to remain aloof, but the sheer excitement from her presence was wearing away her usual walls. One memorable evening Varys had returned from sparring with Karrys in the courtyard to find a bouquet resting against the door to her quarters, no doubt laid there by some Palace admirer. She'd made a show of turning her nose up at the gift just in case anyone had been watching. In reality it had made her giddy.

With the ceremony done, Nobles and honoured guests mingled and made merry. Jenn would soon be wondering what was keeping her, so Varys placed her foot in a loop at the end of her guide rope. She stepped off the ground, allowing the kite to rise further into the air, taking Varys along with it, suspended above the crowded courtyard, until she was over the raised pavilion where Jenn and her compatrots stood socialising. She landed smoothly and with a small flourish for the onlookers she knew must be watching, neatly collapsing the kite into its carrying pack as it floated down beside her.

Varys smiled with satisfaction and made her way over to Jenn, who was surrounded by her allies. Some she knew. Others, she did not. By now Varys had come to tolerate the presence of the aruettise, the outsiders. She was loyal to the Alor, and they were the company the Alor chose to keep.

"Hello. Hi. Um- Just coming through."

Never one for Palace ettiquette, Varys pushed through the huddle of guests and fell in beside Jenn, nodding respectfully to Valery and Alicio, and staring awkardly at the others assembled.

"Congratulations, Buir." said Varys quietly to Jenn. "It has all gone how you planned, yes?"

Varys did not share the Alor's enthusiasm for Onderon. But, it was clear things were finally going Jenn's way, and if she could be happy then Varys supposed she could be too.

-


 
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| Location | Iziz, Royal Plaza - Onderon
| Objective | Introduce the Little Bird


Although her role in the Clan remained tumultuous at times, in no small part due to the young woman's own actions, Varys' display earned the admiration of the warriors of Clan Kryze in attendance as they looked to the skies... and found the ancient, near-forgotten art of Senaar'sen brought back to life before their very eyes. The Mandalorians were quick to cheer on the Alor's daughter, their helmets helping to carry the cheerful calls they let out.​
"Varys! Varys! Senaar'ika!"

The proud Mando'ade in attendance were far from the only ones to show appreciation for the girl's acrobatic display, of course. Foreign as the display may be to them, the locals seemed all too delighted to find themselves graced with the finest of reminders that their would-be protectors were, in fact, capable of more than immense violence. People of all walks of life pointed to the red kite and the graceful woman directing it as if she were a bird and the fabric her wings, their excitement escalating into applause as she landed.​
As the resourceful child of the winds made her way past the guest and to her mother, however, all of this recognition truly paled before the pride etched all over the siren's features, her hand soon brought to rest against her child's shoulder as she beamed down at her. If only for a moment, Jenn truly forgot all about the prestigious accolade she had just received, or the presence of royalty among her honored guests; there was only the unconditional love and unrestrained assurance of a mother. "That it has, ner'ad. And... you've shown us quite the display here today. I am so proud of you, Var'ika."
A reassuring squeeze followed her words, her gaze eventually flitting back to Valery, the sight of the Grandmaster in a similar position to her own claiming a hearty chuckle from the Alor. Now, more than ever before, she truly understood her stalwart friend. A mother looking upon another - although Valery was, admittedly, blessed with many more children than her Mandalorian friend.​
"You've already met Alicio and Valery, ad'ika - allow me to introduce Colette and Shan, the most pleasant Padawans I've had the chance to meet." A slight dip of her head towards the headstrong kid and the green bean followed her words, her voice still full of mirth. She found little need to call Alicio and Valery by their titles - not when introducing her treasured child, something she trusted them with as friends, rather than mere allies. "And of course, Corazona, Knight of the Jedi Order." There was a kindness to her gaze, now, as she chose to introduce the blonde by the title she had earned for herself, rather than the one bestowed upon her by marriage - and seemed to weigh so heavily upon her. Jenn was far from heartless, even more so when it came to the plight of one so young, torn between her duties as she was.​
 
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Jenn Kryze Jenn Kryze Varys Amun Varys Amun Shan Pavond Shan Pavond Colette Colette Valery Noble Valery Noble Alicio Organa Alicio Organa

Cora returned Colette's silent greeting with a smile and wave of her own. They'd been in the periphery of eachother's lives, but it had been quite some time since they'd shared a meal or a mission. She made a mental note to plan something with Colette soon.

The nearby "oohs" and "ahhs" drew attention over, then upward to the skies. A Mandalorian youth was flying overhead, deftly controlling the crimson kite stretched taut above her. She landed to the sound of cheers and wove her way through the crowd to take up the side of her Alor.

The way Jenn spoke to the younger Mandalorian was positively warming, even if she did not understand the affectionate terms spoken in Mando'a. As introductions were made, Cora dipped her head. The title Jenn had chosen to address her by - as a Knight of the New Jedi Order rather than a troubled Princess - did not go unnoticed nor unappreciated.

"A pleasure to meet you, Varys. I must say, you're quite the impressive aerialist! What do you call that?"
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Varys basked in the warmth of her mother's admiration. The feelings of pride were still something Varys was getting used to, but it was far better than the messy kinship she had grown up with. Jenn squeezed her shoulder, and Varys smiled widely, glad that her helmet hid her expression from the gathered onlookers.

"You've already met Alicio and Valery, ad'ika - allow me to introduce Colette and Shan, the most pleasant Padawans I've had the chance to meet.". "And of course, Corazona, Knight of the Jedi Order."

Varys stood up straight and rigid as Jenn introduced the rest of her associates, as if she was at attention.

"It is nice to meet you." said Varys awkwardly, giving a stiff nod to each of them. She was never one for pleasantries and always did her best to avoid strangers, so this situation made her decidedly uncomfortable. Still, Varys was riding the positive energy of the day, so she could put up with some discomfort.


"A pleasure to meet you, Varys. I must say, you're quite the impressive aerialist! What do you call that?"

"It is Senaar'sen." said Varys, puffing out her chest. "In your language, 'birdship.' The Mando'ade art of the Kite."

Whether or not Corazona had meant it, the question pleased Varys greatly. The opportunity to share her interest and loft the superiority of Mandalorian culture over the aruettise? Of course she would jump at that chance.

"The wind is a fickle thing, but for a true Child of Mandalore, it is not so difficult to control." bragged Varys. Then, as if catching herself, she continued, her voice suddenly serious. "But it is no game. It is a cultural practice that ties us to home."

Conscious that she should offer some sort of conversation with these outsiders Jenn so cherised, Varys went on uncertainly. "You have these sort of things on the world you are from?"

Corazona von Ascania Corazona von Ascania | Jenn Kryze Jenn Kryze | Shan Pavond Shan Pavond | Colette Colette | Valery Noble Valery Noble | Alicio Organa Alicio Organa
 
Should Shan offer his hand in greeting? Would it have been seen as an offense? Ironically, he was nearly as stiff and serious as the young Mandalorian before he shook his head. This was a casual event. Well, it was still formal but there wasn't tons of pressure on his shoulders to be formal. Maybe...he should try to fit in at least.

"Pleasure to meet you Varys."

With that, the Mirialan held out his fist instead of holding out his hand for a handshake. A fist bump would be...more appropriate right? Less formal, more of a casual greeting.

"Cora is right. Your aerial feats were quite spectacular. I've never seen anything like that. It'd be a beautiful sight to see such a silhouette soaring through the skies of Nar Shadda. Would at least bring some kind of appeal to my old home. The skills and inventions that the Mandalorians have never fail to surprise me."

Of course, he meant that both positively...and negatively, but for now he was focusing on the positives of it all. He wanted to see the planet anyway, and he felt like being side by side with the people who lived here would be the best way to learn as much as he could...Also it would be a good idea to get a look at the properties on the planet. For no...specific reason in particular.

Corazona von Ascania Corazona von Ascania Colette Colette Jenn Kryze Jenn Kryze Valery Noble Valery Noble Alicio Organa Alicio Organa Varys Amun Varys Amun
 

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"Senaar'sen." Cora repeated slowly, unfamiliar with Mando'a as she was.

She smiled, tickled by not only Varys' explanation, but by her pride as well. Her passion for senaar'sen shone clear.

Cora's eyes slid over to Shan, nodding along with the Mirialian's words. She had never been to Nar Shaddaa, and her only insight to Shan's homeworld were the snippets that had come up in conversation. That, and holodramas.

"Given how talented you are at such a young age, I can only imagine how your skill will continue to grow."

When Varys posed a question, the Knight glanced upward in thought.

"We do have something similar on Ukatis, yes. But kites are much smaller and simpler, usually flown by a string while the wielder is on the ground. In one province, I believe the children hold competitions using their kite's string to cut those of their opponent."

Varys Amun Varys Amun Shan Pavond Shan Pavond Jenn Kryze Jenn Kryze Valery Noble Valery Noble Alicio Organa Alicio Organa Colette Colette

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