Audacia Gaudio

[Alice Di Scarra]

Agent Di Scarra couldn't help wonder what the heck had unfolded in the recent while. She had briefly dabbled into going outside of the Cluster to assist officiall Alliance Intelligence; but the whole thing had gone in a very different way than she had expected. She didn't regret the experience, for she was the kind of woman to make the best out of everything. What had eventually occurred since then was still a shock. Hapan Intelligence had recommended her to the Queen of Onderon, to help with the monarch's security. It was quite an honor and a challenge. Frankly she loved it. And she always did better serving under a woman's order than a man's, even though she had been raised on Theselon, which remained a more egalitarian world in the Consortium, much to many's chagrin.

Sitting in the private lounge aboard Archon Starfallen's flagship as they were en route to Onderon, Alice appreciated the privacy of being able to speak freely with the aristocrat. She was only a couple of years older than him, and she had served much of her early years as his bodyguard before climbing up the ranks of Hapan Intelligence. They had remained both wild cards even by Theselon standards; and he was the one man she respected most. Granted in private, she had given him hell for over a decade.

"I really didn't expect you to make it a whole diplomatic trip, you know. I thought you'd be off bride hunting yet again."

She knew his parents had been horrified he hadn't settled for a suitable wife yet. He had had a couple of flames here and there; but none of them had panned out for multiple reasons. She had almost expected him to elope against his family's wishes at some point. Yet, he was set on doing his own thing, while remaining a respectable figure. There would always be a hint of a rebel in Starfallen; but she had come to think of it as a Theselon trademark.

[Varyan Starfallen]

His former bodyguard and longtime friend's quip about his bride hunting gave Varyan pause. He had felt the whole affair had become too time-consuming. He had dreamed of taking certain liberties and aiming for pursuits that would have driven his family mad, despite how his heart had entertained certain longings. He had even plotted how to maybe even take unwanted charge and literally kidnap a woman who had caught his eye; but in the end reason had prevailed. He had kept his fantasies as such, regusing to turn them into reality. It hadn't been a fearful decision; but rather the realization that his people deserved better than an Archon so entrenched into forming political alliances that he would have no time left to serve the citizens of Theselon. Both his people and the Chume deserved better.

"At some point, the right spouse may come up. Until then, I have other priorities."

He polished off the last of his drink, before setting it aside, flashing a mischievous grin at his companion. "I was only hoping to see you in a gown again, Agent."

Even with her cybernetic eyes, the way Alice glared at him left no uncertainty as to whether she yearned to strangle him right then.

"When it was brought to my attention that you were considered for the position on Onderon, I didn't hesitate to recommend you. I am proud of you; and I know that any monarch would be lucky to have you protect them."

Di Scarra and he might have a tendency to be at each other's throats; but they had immense respect for each other.

He heard the ship move through the atmosphere; and it wasn't long until they felt the large craft hit the landing pad awaiting him at their destination. Getting to his feet, the Archon smoothed the elegant fabric of his outfit and extended a hand towards his guest.

"Shall we?"

[Adraudia Basillie]

Queen Adraudia Basillie stood patiently waiting on the far side of the landing pad as Archon Starfallen's ship engines powered down. The repulsors were cycling through their cool down, hissing out jets of white steam. She was eager for this change of events as much as she was relieved that Onderon's royal guard would have a new commanding officer. This was a void long overdue to be filled and Iziz was grateful of Starfallen's assistance. The queen's cousin had filled in the interim, but Royston was better suited at commanding the beast riders in her eyes. This also helped to further solidify the relationship Onderon had with the Cluster, keep the bonds of allegiance openly. Though it did bring great joy to Darth Creas how deeply the ties were woven together with her master and beloved friend. It saddened her that time with them was limited, but they all had their part to play to keep the proper pieces aligned for influence and power.

Her head lifted higher just so with interest as the landing ramp began to open. The guards that flanked her stood at attention, the ends of spears thunked against the stone work, polished armor shining against Prael high noon rays. The thick maroon padded cloth complemented Adraudia's own silk dress that was trimmed in gold with fur outlining the hanging sleeves. Brown hair was tied back with black bands at equal lengths from the first only allowing two thin strands to hug her face that was just had hints of makeup that heightened her natural beauty.

Di Scarra came highly recommended but Adraudia was understandably wary. Could she trust this offworlder with her guards and safety?

[Alice Di Scarra]

Alice took Varyan's hand when he offered it to her, rising to stand by his side, before they headed for the boarding ramp, which was lowered by the time they got there. She was still surprised that she had been recommended for the position. Handling a high ranked individual's security was very much up her alley, and she had proven her worth repeatedly, including when needign to put her life on the line. That was how she had got both eyes replaced after losing her biological ones a few years back. Yet, she knew she had been trained as an agent, and handling any sort of Royal Guard was a slightly different matter, though it didn't daunt her as much as it inspired her to become even better.

She let Varyan lead the way as the descended to the landing pad. The weather was very agreeable, and she liked the idea that Onderon had days and nights. While as native Hapan, she used to have issues with darker settings, it wasn't the case anymore due to her surgeries. She scanned the perimeter out of habit, wanting to get a feel of how the Queen security's functioned, and what she would have to improve. As much as she knew that she would have much to learn, she was keenly confident in her skills to ensure the monarch would be safe.

She observed the Queen who had chosen to personally greet them. It meant much to Alice, for she knew that it wasn't always the case, depending on the kind of ruler a planet had. It gave her a good first impression from Queen Adraudia. The brunette let Varyan speak first, for he technically outranked her, and she was willing to be polite.

She suddenly felt a tremor in the Force, and it pulled her attention towards the Queen. She looked at her, but the impression had been fleeting. Yet it had been there. She wondered whether the Queen might be a Force user. After all, Alice had kept to herself that she was a Sith Knight to everyone, even Varyan. She had chosen to keep that herself out of self-preservation. Yet, she found herself highly curious of the Queen's status in such regards.

Once Varyan had introduced her to the Queen, she spoke at last. "It is an honor to meet you, your Majesty. Thank you for having me here."

[Varyan Starfallen]

Varyan knew Alice well enough to realize that she was presenting herself as a true lady, which always required a lot of self control from his long-time friend. He knew she could do that, but it was a rarity. She was a wild card a heart, which was one of the reasons he held her up in such high regards. He was so proud of her for obtaining this position.

He was personally looking forward to meeting the Queen of Onderon, and was grateful she had agreed to a formal diplomatic visit from Theselon when Alice moved to her new assignment. It was important to him not only to support Alice; but also to make the best of an opportunity to strengthen ties between his home world and a planet such as Onderon. While the latter had been brought in to the fold of the Consortium several years ago; it meant much to him to continue consolidating as such. And the healthier the relationships between worlds, the better it was for the whole gathering of worlds.

His eyes soon fell upon the graceful monarch as they exited the ship. There was a tranquil strength to Queen Adraudia, and he appreciated it. He knew she had led her people for a significant amount of time by now, and he had heard much good about the planet, despite certain troublesome times, which was only a natural element of any place's history.

As they came to a halt before their hostess, he bowed to her with genuine respect.

"Queen Basillie, this is an honor to meet you. I am Archon Varyan Starfallen, of Theselon. This is Agent Alice Di Scarra."

[Adraudia Basillie]

She regarded Di Scarra, evaluating every nuance as to how she carried herself and even how the woman's gaze was already scrutinizing the guards. What was more puzzling was the low droning sensation that caught the queen's attention when their gazes briefly met. This was highly curious and immediately erected mental barriers to protect herself from any potential threat. She would take no chances with Di Scarra until they talked properly. There were too many webs and mechanisms inside her mind to take any chances with this stranger. The queen sincerely hoped that Starfallen was not attempting something duplicitous which would signal his end.

Until she unraveled true sincerity or hidden motives, pleasantries continued.

For now the Archon was genuine and Adraudia smiled graciously towards her guests, arms extending. "Onderon is pleased to welcome you Archon Starfallen and Agent Di Scarra. We are looking forward to hosting your stay. Though of course ..."

The queen smiled respectfully towards the agent.

"... we are most eager to learn more about our new commanding officer of the royal guard."

[Alice Di Scarra]

Alice kept to herself about her strong curiosity about the Queen and what she had briefly but definitely sensed. Her guard was even higher than usual, which said a lot. She was so rarely taken by surprised but the monarch could already pride herself in having achieved such a feat within minutes of meeting. This might either complicate or simplify matters. It was way too early to judge. While having to be patient due to her work, the brunette had little enjoyment when it came to waiting. Alas, she had no other option for the time being. She would carry on as usual for now.

She observed the exchange between Varyan and the Queen, bowing her head once more when attention fell upon her. "I understand Your Majesty was provided with significant information regarding my credentials; but I believe you will have questions for me regardless." After all, there was red tape around her work history, and that wasn't even including what might or might not be shared between both women in the ways of the Force.

"I will be ready to begin my new assignment as soon as Your Majesty says the word," she added, for it was how she always considered new missions. Whenever she could start, she would. And this particular new position was one hell of a challenge, which would require more study than she had been able to complete in the short time of preparation she had had on her hands prior to the trip to Onderon.

[Varyan Starfallen]

Oblivious to the succinct exchange between both Force users, Varyan kept most of his attention upon their hostess; although every once in a while he spared glances at Alice. He knew she had longed for larger and greater horizons since her adolescence, and this position went beyond what he had even expected for her. Her credentials spoke for themselves; but he had nevertheless wholeheartedly supported her nomination.

"I will gladly step aside for the both of you to discuss Agent Di Scarra's new position. My diplomatic visit comes after the security of Onderon."

He was genuinely happy to give space and time for the Queen and Alice to better acquaint themselves with one another. He had of course brought certain prized presents from Theselon, quite required in such settings; but his stay of a few days would give ample time to present them to the Queen.

He had high hopes for this trip to cement a long-lasting relationship between Onderon and Theselon; but he knew well enough that such things took time. Confidence and patience mattered more than bold urgency, which would only leave all parties disgruntled.

[Adraudia Basillie]

Polite but restrained eagerness is what she felt from Di Scarra. It was a superficial brush of the Force to get a feel for the woman's current emotional state.

She held up a hand towards her new commander, it slipping further into view as the long sleeve pulled back to reveal rings and bracelets adorned with precious gems. "Patience. You'll get to see my guards soon enough but as you say... we have much to discuss."

The Queen lowered her hand once more and looked to the Archon. "Nonsense. You will join us. You spoke highly of her abilities and it would be foolish not having you present. There's plenty of refreshments for all of us. Come."

The guards followed their ruler as she turned to walk up the stairs and into the palace. "My staff has prepared a proper welcome on the deck. You'll enjoy a breathtaking view of Iziz and the surrounding homes. You can even see the wall from there."

[Alice Di Scarra]

Varyan's response was quite typical of him, Alice mused. Many had thought vastly different things about the kind of leader he would become; but she had known him close enough that she hadn't been surprised by the man he now was, for it was in par to anyone gifted with an acute sense of observation. While she wasn't the kind to offer profuse compliments, she was quite proud of him, and valued their friendship, even as life took them into different directions for the most part.

She felt a brief but distinct flutter in the Force; and her cybernetic eyes ironically strengthened their focus upon the monarch. May she be damned if Queen Adraudia was no Force user.

She bowed her head and a subtle smile curved her lips, appreciating the Queen's words. She was eager to find out more about her new assignment but as her mentors had drilled into her, both as an agent and as a Sith, patience had virtues for an accomplished predator.

Alice found herself feel even more positive about the planetary ruler, when she offered Varyan to accompany them. While Varyan's support had been a constant in her life, seeing the Queen take it into account meant more than she had expected.

She bowed her head as they were offered to come along. She fell in stride right by Varyan's side, which was a weird thing to her. Back in the day when she watched over him, she was behind him, ensuring he was protected at all costs. She took his arm when he offered it to her. He didn't have to do it, but she appreciated regardless.

As they followed the Queen; and eventually reached the promised point of view; she had to admit she was impressed. It was beautiful; and she enjoyed her technological eyes all the more to zoom in and out on certain details.

"This is stunning, Your Majesty," she admitted with genuine appreciation.

[Varyan Starfallen]

Varyan's smile widened at the Queen's invitation to be present during her discussions with Alice. He gave her a polite nod; but his joy was visible. He knew he would have offered exactly that, had the positions be reversed; but he appreciated it nonetheless. Alice meant a lot to him; and he was honored to have participated to her being considered for the new prestigious assignment. He was aware that her qualities and hard work were what had mostly earned her this position though.

It was hilarious how some people had believed once upon a time that he would seek to take her as his wife and potential Archoness. That had never been the case; and both friends had laughed over the silly concept several times over the year. They hadn't always seen eye to eye, they could both appreciate the other's attractiveness; but they had never been romantically or sexually enticed by the other. At least, it made for good running jokes.

"Thank you, Queen Basillie. We are grateful for your warm welcome," he said with slight greater ease.

He caught the brief amused smirk on Alice's face, her usual reaction to his sometimes boyish enthusiasm. He was pleased as she took his arm without quip or hesitation. They followed the Queen to the staircases leading to their current destination. He was intrigued by this view she had mentioned. He wondered how his eyesight would make do upon night time; but it wasn't as if he was unique in his Hapan eyesight limitations.

Varyan had only been out of the Cluster once before; but Onderon made him feel at home to certain extent. He had also longed to challenge himself, especially as the Consortium expanded beyond the Cluster through the planet, and wherever else political alliances might one day take it.

He couldn't help smiling at Alice's compliment about the view. He remained silent for a moment, simply taking the whole thing in, as much as he could. The colors were stunning above anything else. It had a feeling of power and yet tranquil beauty that spoke to him.

[Adraudia Basillie]

She was pleased with Di Scarra's comment and the looked of splendid wonder that slowly spread across Varyan's features as they took in the impressive view that was Iziz.

"It is a sight to behold. And I do hope you come to love it as I have, Alice," she said, gazing towards the other woman with a soft smile. "May I call you Alice?"

As a queen she could do as she pleased but this was a fledgling relationship that was forming. Adraudia needed a strong commander for her guards, but if Alice was the perfect fit for her needs, the woman had to realize that first, and foremost, Iziz Palace was a home. Millennia of history resided here since her great ancestor Freedon Nadd ruled all the way to the time Razielle was taken as ward of the queen. Onderon's ruler treated those she trusted as family, with all the adoration and privilege that came with it. That trust just needed to be earned both ways. A small gesture of asking permission over a name was a start.

If things worked with Varyan's companion, and with the potential felt, the queen ruminated on how Alice could fit in Callidus' plans.

[Alice Di Scarra]

Alice was surprised to be called by her first name, for it was a rarity outside of her family and Varyan. She looked at the Queen for a moment, genuinely considering the question, mostly because she hadn't expected the monarch to do as such, given her position compared to her, even as commander of her guard. She could feel Varyan's eyes on her as well, probably as surprised as she was, although he was more used to the intricacies of political entanglements than she was. She eventually nodded and smiled.

"You may, Your Majesty. Thank you for asking," she replied in earnest.

Alice looked at the view that seemed to stretch into semi-infinity. "I am glad to get to serve in such a beautiful place. While traveling to several worlds over the past year has taught me a lot, I am looking forward to potentially plant roots somewhere."

It was a bold statement from her, but stemming from a realization that had been brewing in the last months. It had been part of the motivation for her to accept the prestigious offer.

[Varyan Starfallen]

If there was one thing that Varyan knew about Alice was how she wasn't the trusting kind. He had witnessed the shift when they were adolescents. He had never been able to truly explain it; but he had never asked either, valuing their strong friendship instead. If she wished to open up to him one day, he would be there; but he wouldn't pry. He was still surprised that she did trust him to a certain extent no matter what. He felt privileged. Some had suggested it was because of his position of power. While he knew that Alice was one hell of an ambitious woman, she hadn't needed him to excel in the path she had chosen. And he knew for sure their friendship didn't rely on power games.

The exchange between the Queen and Alice was a good omen for what was at stake with this new assignment, for a commander of the guard and a monarch or any leader of sort, had to run deep. It was no sand castle.

He caught Alice's eyes after she admitted to her new perspective about assignments and making a place for herself somewhere.

"While I am chagrined you didn't stay on Theselon, I have hope that Onderon will be the place for you," he offered with a slight nod.

[Adraudia Basillie]

She inclined her head, pleased that Alice approved of not only the use of her first name but of her kingdom. Her new commander expressing that Onderon be her new home thrilled Adraudia as much as it heightened her suspicions. Alice may be vetted by her exemplary resume, beginning since the time she was trained at the Royal Academy, and by Varyan, but the woman's aptitude with the Force required tempered patience with the queen. Trust was going to take time.

"Opportunities are plentiful, but not to be wasted," she implored. "All things to discuss comfortably. Please ..."

Adraudia turned towards the banquet table set up on the deck. The table was covered with finely pressed lavender linen and piled with food and drink for far more than those present. The left overs would go to the kitchen staff to disperse throughout the palace.

"... sit and eat in comfort."

[Alice Di Scarra]

Alice was still very intrigued by the Queen's Force talents that she had so briefly and thus inadequately sensed. It had been mostly easy to hide her secret nature from most others, even as she had occupied multiple positions as part of Hapan military and then Intelligence. She would have to be careful around the Queen. It wasn't so much about deception that she wanted to ensure that it wouldn't pose a problem. And it was likely that someone else was behind the woman's training as well, if she was still educated, which she had a gut feeling she was. Time would reveal what intricate designs the Dark Side had at play; but for now, the Sith Knight would remain careful.

She spared a glance at Varyan and nodded to him. She could be his personal guard's commander as well now, if she had chosen to; but she trusted who was currently overseeing his security. After all, she hadn't expected that her military training would come in handy in such a capacity as her new role demanded it.

To the Queen's remark about opportunities, she quirked a brow and took a seat when invited to. She took in the table settings and all the food and beverages available. It was definitely a mouth-watering side.

"Thank you, Your Majesty. As for opportunities, I do value efficiency. Wasting resources of any kind is something I do my best to avoid. This is also why I will likely be conducting a thorough review of your guards and security personnel at first, so I know who to best delegate certain duties to, so I don't end micromanaging so all's abilities are used to their fullest."

She was a strong overseer so to speak; and was always deeply involved in any mission; and this new assignment would be no different.

[Varyan Starfallen]

Varyan thanked the Queen as he sat down at the table, appreciating the Onderon delicacies being presented. He had things to discuss with the Queen, as he hoped to build strong relations between their two worlds; but he also understood that the matter that had priority over his diplomatic designs, and which would participate to them, was the Queen and Alice addressing his longtime friend's new position.

For now he made himself scarce, giving his attention to the conversation between both women. He was ready and willing to participate at any time; but he knew that for now his silence was beneficial. He knew that some would consider that typical good behavior of a male Hapan; but he chose to see that as normal courtesy.

[Adraudia Basillie]

Once they were seated, servants poured wine and stepped back, alert for the needs of the queen and her guests.

"Curious." Adraudia picked up a bunch of grapes to lay across her plate. "It sounds like you've given this assignment a lot of thought, Alice. What I've read about your thoroughness is not just pretty words."

She smiled pleasantly. "I've read, and heard, a lot of pretty words. People hoped to sway my decision with them. Until I dug further on my own. I still find it troubling that after all this time, some in court believe me vapid. Alas."

Her smile fell grim. She and the courts had a most persistent love hate relationship since she and her consort parted ways with no heir. For awhile they had been appeased that Adraudia had settled, but it was not meant to be with the dashing entrepreneur. The courts remain in a state of unrest with it but Adraudia continued to persevere - her duty to the people of Onderon, and her master - always coming first.

[Alice Di Scarra]

Alice's attention remained upon the Queen. It was interesting to see her grimly comment on how the court viewed her. Onderon appeared to be mostly stable in its current state; but she knew that unrest could take many forms, and fester for a long while before bursting to life in the most vicious ways.

"You do not strike me as vapid, Your Majesty. I would have little interest in this assignment if you were a purely decorative monarch."

She heard Varyan stifle a cough next to her; but she didn't look at him. It was a bold statement; but a truthful one, and it could be interpreted as a hint to how Basillie and Alice recognized what each other were upon the very first moment they met.

"Based on what I read there has been little direct attack against you in the recent while; but I will review any further sealed reports of course; and I want you to be able to confide in me about threats you perceive."

[Varyan Starfallen]

Watching the conversation between Alice and Adraudia, Varyan found himself focusing more on the Queen at the moment, especially as she discussed her problematic relationship with the court. He knew she had once had a consort from whom she had separated. He knew well the concern of families and higher nobles expecting a planetary leader to produce heirs or heiresses depending on which way a culture leaned.

"Sometimes court members appear more focused on the continuation of the line than on what a ruler actually does for their people," he remarked in earnest.

After all, his family and some of his closest advisers had forced him to focus on bride hunting for too long, and his recent decision to refocus on his citizens had caused tensions.