SotP Addenda - Force-user Sects, the Unorthodox in Practice
THE QUABULAR : CULTURE – MANDALORIAN HERITAGE
Though the Quabular separated from the Mandalorians as a cultural entity millennia ago, their Mandalorian roots – questionable though they might be – have shaped and defined them. They have almost certainly evolved in a direction that neither the Mandalorians nor the first Quabular themselves might have foreseen.
Do the Quabular see themselves as Mandalorian? No, but that answer is far too abrupt, rather, the answer is yes but not entirely, and the reasons for that are complicated. It is perhaps more accurate to say that they recognize the Mandalorian influence on their people and culture, but do not consider themselves truly Mandalorian in the way that the Tribe does, as a comparison.
It is not too difficult to puzzle out the Mandalorian-flavored milieu if one looks just below the surface. Some are arguably Mandalorian traits and values taken to an extreme position. Discipline is embedded throughout their society, with a rabid adherence to methods and tradition with no dissent tolerated. There is an argument to be made that they more closely resemble the first Mandalorians in this way, rather than the modern iteration that first emerged under Mandalore the Ultimate.
However, what most would consider the most overt tie is their language, aptly labeled as 'Mandalorian Creole.' While it is obviously derived from basic Mando'a, it has evolved into a distinct language.
Even fluent Mando'a speakers find it more difficult than expected to translate, and neither does a fluent speaker of Mandalorian Creole innately know Mando'a. While both languages share a significant amount of root words and concepts, this is not a mere dialect of Mando'a as some academics have tried to claim.
Another notable cultural connection is how the Quabular have taken concepts and entire words from a very old part of Mandalorian history – predating even Mandalore the First. The Kaarnan evolved from the Mando'a term 'Ka'ra,' which references a mythical 'Council of Kings.' Before the Mandalorians were led by a single leader, the taung states were led by the Ka'ra – a vastly different structure of leadership than what they eventually adopted.
There is an argument to be made that the roots of the Quabular are closer to the early Mandalorians rather than the modern ones – but for the Quabular themselves, they tend not to make the distinction, because they do not claim to be Mandalorian in any substantial way.
When the Mandalorians exiled themselves from the rest of the galaxy, that severed any possible justification for claiming ties, as they see it. Perhaps more importantly, the Quabular have no real desire to be associated with the Mandalorians. They are their own people now, and they are content with this.
THE QUABULAR : CULTURE – VIGILANTISM
The word 'vigilante' is often used to describe the Quabular, one that few would dispute the accuracy of. What might be considered a more interesting question is if the Quabular view themselves in a similar way, and why they engage in vigilantism at all.
The Quabular view their association with vigilantism to be understandable to outsiders, but internally, they believe it fails to accurately capture or convey what they see as their mission. They see vigilantism as the consequence of a failed government, legal system, culture, or authority where such an option is not only sought, but ideal.
To be a vigilante requires a dismissal of the laws, norms, and rules that govern a particular planet or region. It is a rejection of the existing central authority in favor of individuals or groups whose only safeguard is their personal ethics and morals. What perhaps differentiates Quabular from other self-proclaimed vigilantes is that they do not accept the legitimacy of laws in the first place, but rather only follow their own.
From the perspective of the Quabular, foreign laws are at best suggestions, and if they come in conflict with their morality, then their morality supersedes it by default. The Quabular do not see themselves as lawbreakers, because non-Quabular laws are already in conflict with what they believe, and therefore illegitimate. At best, a foreign law can be neutral, and at worst, it exists only to deny resolution or justice.
It is why the Quabular neither embrace nor reject the vigilante label. They operate outside of the law, or in direct conflict with it, but not because they see any particular law as unjust, but because all laws are illegitimate except their own. There is no internal conflict or hesitation when choosing to break any local or galactic law, because from their perspective, they have done nothing wrong.
Rather, it is the rest of the galaxy that has the wrong laws, the wrong morals, and the wrong culture – as it enables evil and criminality to thrive. Everything the Quabular do is something they believe will make the galaxy a better and safer place.
When operating with that mindset, one can easily see how and why they are willing to do things that even less principled vigilantes would balk at.
THE QUABULAR : CULTURE – CRIME AND JUSTICE
The Quabular perspective on crime has two parts – the social aspect and the personal aspect.
Crime is considered the consequence of a failing of society, and the immorality of those who lead it. To the Quabular, a proper leader or government would be active in dissuading their constituents from engaging in criminal behavior, both by example, and by the enforcement of laws to curb said activity.
It is one reason why Quabular sentences are often harsh – a society is a reflection of the values and norms of any particular culture or government. If a society has fallen so far that criminal activity has become passively accepted, then nothing short of total elimination will be sufficient for there to be change.
Quabular do not see themselves as a 'cure' to crime, as some of their defenders would claim, but something akin to an 'exterminator.' Someone who is called upon to remove an infestation, but not responsible for maintaining it afterwards to make sure it doesn't arise. The Quabular remove the criminal infestation, but they do not address its root cause.
This enters the personal element of crime. Ultimately, the Quabular see the criminal as an immoral individual, whose morals – or lack thereof – will be the deciding factor on who they become. Once someone crosses the threshold of committing a single crime, it becomes easier to do more, and if you have no values or morals to anchor yourself, then there is no limit to what you might do.
The Quabular do not make much distinction between the types of crime. While they will recognize the difference between theft and murder, they would contend that they share the same root character failing, which will only worsen unless the individual changes their ways. The same applies to tolerance.
Quabular believe that deviance should not be overlooked or tolerated within a society, and that being understanding, open-minded, or apathetic is what instigates the corruption of civilizations. It is not enough, in their view, to be personally uncorrupted – you must also not tolerate it in even those close to you.
It is why the Quabular are so strict with their morality – they believe that morality is the ultimate foundation of a society, and a check on the individual. Their calculus is that a moral society is far harder to weaken or corrupt than an immoral or amoral one. They can point to any number of failed societies as explanations for their own internal intolerance.
This extends to justice. Quabular, notably, do not believe in carceral punishment. They believe that isolation or ostracization from society only hides the problem. It does not address it, it does not cure it, and it does not stop it. Punishment is necessary, but a criminal must not only understand what they did was wrong, they must change themselves to be better, and this is not accomplished with prisons.
For Quabular who transgress, they receive direct reeducation, but also social reintegration. They receive attention and encouragement from their neighbors, family, and peers, and given enough time, it is as though they did nothing at all. They have the memory, but they can now reference it as something that fostered their betterment.
It is a notably progressive model by Alliance standards – and one the Quabular often do not extend to people they target. Why? Partially because the scale of crime is often too great for the Quabular to forgive, but also because non-Quabular societies are not built for the kind of rehabilitation they practice.
Any attempt would almost certainly lead to a relapse, and the criminal learning nothing. The Quabular consider this unacceptable, and so they often remove the problem from the equation entirely. This is not to say the Quabular do not offer mercy on occasion for the truly penitent, but as noted when discussing the Zer'uka, this is the exception rather than the rule.
Not all of them consider it 'true' justice. Some acknowledge that it can be disproportionate, but they ultimately believe it is far better to take action and apply the punishment than let it fester. They place the burden on the societies themselves to address the underlying problems. The most the Quabular can do is set an example to follow – one which is, admittedly, unlikely to take hold anytime soon.
THE FALLEN KNIGHTHOOD
If one is aware of the existence of those who comprise the Fallen Knighthood, they are likely under a few immediate misconceptions. The Fallen Knighthood is largely – and incorrectly – believed to refer to Quabular who have failed the Trial of Purity, and have permanently succumbed to the dark side. Under this misconception, the Fallen Knighthood are roaming, unchained Force-users that prowl the galaxy until put down by the Quabular, Jedi, or the Imperial Knights.
It was stated earlier in this report that roughly a fifth of all Quabular ultimately fail the Trial of Purity, but there is some more nuance to this statistic than at first glance. While a majority of this number reject redemption and become vessels of the dark side, having no desire or need to return to their brethren, this does not comprise everyone who fails this trial.
An aspect of the Trial of Purity – for those who succeed – that is often overlooked and understated is the aftermath of it. It is coming to the realization of not only what you became, but what you have done. The Trial of Purity is not an illusion, as has been painstakingly outlined, nor one without consequences. Their fall was real, and for it to be real, there were actions committed that can never be taken back.
To reconcile with that is a tremendous challenge, demanding support, forgiveness, and love from those who care about the individual. It is critical to know that after everything done, they are still worthy to receive forgiveness. The Quabular understand this, and they are aware of what it takes to have their people regain themselves.
But for some of the Quabular who've undertaken the trial, it isn't enough.
Consider that you have undergone the Trial of Purity, and by whatever circumstances you can envision, you have realized what you have become, and it is enough to jolt you off the path you have walked. It then dawns on you that everything you did was real, it can never be taken back, and will haunt you forever.
This is followed by the realization that it didn't have to happen.
Everything that happened was nothing more than a test; one where you were manipulated into taking the actions you did. It does not excuse what you did, but you know that it was a deliberate choice the Kaarnan made to induce your fall. You had heard about this trial of course, but like most, you believed yourself better, or did not think the cost would be so high.
How could you forgive yourself? How could you face your peers, friends, and family – those you didn't kill, that is. How could you walk among the Herrgalba, Ha'qa, and Ikur knowing that this is what they sanction; who do this, knowing the pain and horror it will unleash? Finally, you consider that every one of them has undergone this same trial and passed – what horrific acts have they committed? How much pain and misery has been unleashed by the Trial of Purity onto the galaxy?
It is this line of thought that causes these people, who are again set on the path of redemption, to instead reject the Quabular utterly and leave it forever. These individuals belong to the Fallen Knighthood.
The Fallen Knighthood should not be thought of as a 'formal' group. It is at most a loose association of former Quabular who succeeded the Trial of Purity, and departed afterwards in disgust, shame, and betrayal. They are bonded by one thing only – that they are irredeemable monsters the Quabular created.
There exists a spectrum of self-perception within the Fallen Knighthood. They are not uniform in personality, or the circumstances that led to their fall, redemption, and rejection of the Quabular. Many are consumed by shame and self-loathing; others by anger at what they consider an unforgivable betrayal by their former brethren; some by despair and nihilism. They do not believe that they deserved to live, and consider the Quabular hypocritical for their uncompromising stance on crime and corruption – but in turn intentionally creating monsters who they are then willing to forgive.
If anything defines those within the Fallen Knighthood, it is this – they are the sworn enemy of the Quabular, and spend the rest of their lives hunting or thwarting them. They can be found across the galaxy as mercenaries or assassins who actively stalk Quabular who they gain knowledge of, or they will offer their services to individuals who they believe will be targets for Quabular judgment.
Fallen Knights have wildly varying demeanors, ethics, and morals. Some of them still maintain a code of conduct not dissimilar from their time as the Quabular, and will act within certain limitations and rules that won't endanger innocents. Some relapse into their truly fallen selves, seeing resistance to it as pointless – they are already monsters, so why not embrace it.
However, even the Fallen Knights who embrace the dark side retain enough self-control to keep their focus on the Quabular, and do not care for the indulgences other fallen Force-users often fall into.
Each of the Fallen Knighthood are very dangerous – but notably only have their sights on the Quabular, and are willing to work with anyone, no matter their allegiance, to help fight them. Combating the Quabular is their final, enduring, and endless mission in what remains of their life.
They are ready to die, and when they die, all they desire is that it be while fighting their sworn enemy.
RORAN WIRENS, WHO SHEPHERDS THE DAMNED: While it is unconventional to add an individual of note in this section of the report, it is warranted. While the Fallen Knighthood does not have a formal structure or a leader, it does have a face – or at least someone who has begrudgingly accepted the role.
Roran Wirens' identity as a former Quabular is not known to most people he interacts with, and it was only after we connected him to a number of other members who associate with the Fallen Knighthood that we believed there was a connection. Roran's reach into and over the Fallen Knighthood is undefined – but it does exist, and we know that he has passed along information concerning the Quabular to other Fallen Knights to act upon.
We were able to contact him, and he agreed to speak to one of our agents. Much of what he said should be examined critically, but it gives us greater insight into him, and the broader Fallen Knighthood.
Roran told his story as this: during what he now knows was the Trial of Purity, he murdered his family, who had seen his corruption, and endeavored to stop it. Rather than step off the path, he killed them. They were, as he recounts, his first, but not only victims. He did not share exactly what circumstances led to his fall, or why he felt he needed to do that, and we unfortunately have little to speculate on.
It was only two years after this incident, and the encouragement of someone he called a 'friend at the time' did he realize what he had done, and began his new path toward rejecting the darkness – which he ultimately did. For most Quabular, this would be the end of the story, and he would return to be reintegrated.
Roran says that he couldn't handle the reality of what he had done, and instead fled far away to avoid putting any of his brethren in danger, while he attempted to reconcile with what he had done. He openly admits that he was likely going to kill himself (which the small percentage that do not end up as Fallen Knights usually do), were it not for an encounter in a cantina where he was able to save the life of one of the patrons.
It was, to him, a reminder that while he had fallen, and could never redeem himself, he could still do something worthwhile. That was his trajectory for several years, wandering the galaxy, occasionally saving a few strangers, but otherwise keeping himself isolated. Eventually, it led him into the employ of a certain well-known figure – Aggora the Magnificent.
Roran declined to say exactly why he agreed to work for a notably more benevolent, but still active member of the Hutt Cartels (and one of the most powerful). Instead, he said that Aggora was 'persuasive' in presenting an opportunity to do something important with the rest of his life.
Primarily, stopping the Quabular.
Until this point, Roran says that he wouldn't have considered himself a member of the Fallen Knighthood. He had hated the Quabular for what they'd done, but he was too broken to act on it. He has now put his life back together, serving as Aggora's chief of internal security – and explicitly deterring Quabular activity.
From the day he fell until now, it has been twenty years. Few outside of Aggora himself appear to know his past, where he came from, or what he'd done. He is one of the Fallen Knights who maintains some degree of the morality he grew up in, and is well-liked among Aggora's entourage – and disliked by Aggora's rivals for being 'principled,' but also very good at his job.
Speaking to the man today, it would be difficult to think of him once being completely broken, though there are hints that it is mostly a persona. Roran expresses little emotion, his voice is an unusual monotone that is overtly deliberate, rather than a natural way of speaking. He also self-isolates himself to a degree that is considered unhealthy; he actively avoids friendships or relationships beyond the strictly professional.
The only exception to this is when he interacts with others like him. He has been known to take in Fallen Knights who couldn't handle the aftermath of the Trial of Purity with no questions asked until they have recovered enough of themselves – or they commit suicide.
His views on the Quabular have grown more resentful, bitter, and hateful as the years have passed. He considers the entire group a hypocritical evil – one he hopes to see destroyed one day.
As far as his place within the Fallen Knighthood, he does not hold a leadership position per se, but he has hosted others identified as Fallen Knights, and there is speculation that he has begun to start giving them instructions. No decision has been made yet, but Roran has reportedly considered formalizing the Fallen Knighthood.
We do not know if this is something that Aggora has encouraged – but it is almost certain that if Roran does take this step, Aggora would support it with the vast resources available to him. One hint that Roran is utilizing his elevated perception among the Fallen Knighthood is his adoption of a title, 'Who Shepherds the Damned,' which is something only members of the Kaarnan earn.
Roran may not intend to recreate the Kaarnan, but he does appear to be signaling his willingness to be a leader to others like him.
The Quabular are not ignorant of Roran, he has claimed that the Quabular have attempted to kill him several times and failed. We do not have a way of confirming this one way or another – but considering that Roran admitted to sharing intelligence collected by Aggora's spy network with other Fallen Knights, it would not be surprising.
If Roran makes the choice to formalize the Fallen Knighthood, it seems reasonable to assume the Quabular will take more extensive action against him.
ALLIES OF NOTE
The Quabular, as a rule, do not maintain 'formal' state-to-state alliances. They do not consider it a priority, nor necessary to complete their own objectives. While they recognize the benefit of positive relationships between numerous actors, they prefer keeping some distance from even those they consider 'friendly.'
It would be misleading to list the following groups as true 'allies' as the template requires, but these groups are ones that the Quabular hold largely positive views on, and will proactively work with should an appropriate situation arise. These determinations have been made based on known interactions, or historical encounters.
THE VOSS MYSTICS: It is not clear precisely what the relationship between the Quabular and the Voss Mystics is, but we are confident that there is some form of standing relationship. It is possible, though not confirmed, that there exists a formal agreement in some form between the Three and the Kaarnan considering who the Quabular have sent and interacted with.
Members of the Kaarnan have visited Voss, stretching back to the latter days of the Galactic Civil War, and it is almost certain they met with the Three. Analysts have noted that there are also no prior visits to Voss before this point, suggesting that this began following the Jur'bwar's appearance in the Quabular.
It is not unreasonable to speculate that the Jur'bwar already possessed some relationship or link to the Voss, which has since been extended to the Quabular. This is further reinforced by the fact that the Jur'bwar has paid visits to the voss throughout the centuries, up until the current era.
It is not just the Kaarnan who visit Voss, but Herrga as well, though this is uncommon. What is notable is that when they visit, they also are believed to speak to the Three. This implies that whatever the relationship between both parties, it is significant.
Neither the Quabular nor the voss have ever acknowledged these visits or any agreement, if such a thing exists at all. However, both parties are clearly gaining some mutual benefit, and it does not need to be stressed that if the voss are involved, then they either see benefit in a strong relationship with the Quabular, or otherwise consider them worth keeping a close watch on.
We ignore anything the voss do at our own peril, and the key to understanding this relationship will be found in the truth of the Jur'bwar – whatever that might be.
THE FELLAN IMPERIUM: While there is no official alliance with the Quabular, I believe that it can be credibly stated that both the Fellan Imperium and the Quabular hold a mutual respect for the other, and share similar views concerning a number of critical topics related to the Outer Rim and beyond.
It has been standard protocol within Imperial Intelligence, and the branches of the Imperial Military, that if Quabular are encountered in the course of an operation, it is almost always beneficial to join forces, or assist the Quabular operative in their mission unless it directly conflicts with Imperial objectives.
The Quabular have largely been receptive to these temporary alliances as they arise, and have often repaid this support by assisting with our own operations, or if not feasible, providing intelligence they believe we can use on figures, groups, and movements of note on the local region or planet.
They often have similar objectives to our own in the Outer Rim, particularly concerning the elimination or mitigation of organized crime, smuggling rings, drug production, and other numerous criminal activities. There are sometimes points of friction – the Quabular almost always prefer to kill criminals, while Imperial protocols prefer capture and interrogation.
This will often be resolved in a compromise, usually on the part of the Quabular, who will allow us to take criminal figures into custody, so long as we commit to capital punishment following interrogation. Imperial Intelligence recommendations are to use this sparingly, and for individuals who almost certainly possess important information, and allow the Quabular to terminate other criminal leadership to maintain a positive relationship with the group.
These alliances with the Quabular should not necessarily be taken as the Quabular viewing the Imperium as 'compatible' for lack of a better term. There exist vast cultural differences, and the Quabular almost certainly consider the Imperium an immoral society – if one more acceptable than most in the galaxy.
However, because this relationship developed, the Quabular exercise pragmatism instead of dogma when interacting with the Imperium. While they almost certainly hold reservations, they appear to see the Imperium as preferable to the status quo in the Outer Rim and the Kaarnan has issued guidance to their members stating as much.
The Kaarnan view the Imperium as useful, and have encouraged their operatives to work with us if the opportunity presents itself. If this perception were to change, it is almost certain that we would have little prior warning. It is unlikely the Quabular would take hostile action, but instead refrain from association.
However, there are currently no indications this standing, if unofficial, arrangement will change. The Imperium, the Quabular, and the galaxy at large have benefited from this relationship, and from the standpoint of the Imperium, there are no current plans to alter the deal.
ENEMIES OF NOTE
THE HUTT CARTELS: If there is a particular organized crime group that has been on the receiving end of the Quabular more than any other, it is without question the Hutt Cartels. This statement, while technically true, does not have the full context, and requires a brief overview of what the Hutt Cartels are.
The Hutt Cartels are not a coherent entity, but a loose collection of individual groups and interests that are dominated by the hutts. There are thousands of Cartels, and they fight against each other as much as against the Imperium, Alliance, or any other planetary authority. People who try to portray the Cartels as a singular group with an agenda are misinformed at best, and actively misleading at worst.
As far as what the Cartels align on, it is exceptionally broad, and often comes down to creating a permissive environment to spread their particular vice. The Cartels have little that unites them beyond keeping non-Cartels out of their territory – particularly the Black Sun and Zann Consortium – and maximizing their profit and influence.
And they have been very successful in this regard. The sheer number of Cartels, and their breadth, means that behind nearly every organized crime entity, corrupt planetary government, or mercenary company, is a hutt. It cannot be overstated the degree to which the Cartels invest and influence organized crime in the Outer Rim.
As a result, whenever the Quabular operate in the Outer Rim, they are, even if unintentionally, striking directly at the interests or investments of a Hutt Cartel.
This does not mean that the Quabular do not actively target major Cartel efforts and operations – they absolutely do – but they cause just as much damage, if not more to Cartel interests, by accident. And for the smaller, weaker, and up-and-coming Cartels, this can be a death blow that is taken advantage of by their numerous rivals.
The hutts are becoming more aware of this fact, and the larger Cartels are beginning to take more proactive measures to mitigate possible Quabular interference. This includes hiring more professional mercenaries, more competent subordinates, and investing in anti-Force technologies.
While these measures are intelligent and effective, they also reflect the disparity between the largest Cartels controlled by Tuchanka, Aggora, Orsoros, and Gliduma and even moderately-sized Cartels who do not have a powerful patron.
The measures that the dominant Cartels take are simply unaffordable for the vast majority, and this significantly influences Cartel dynamics. They are forced to either submit to a larger or wealthier Cartel, or take significant financial risks to fund their ability to mitigate a potential assault from a group few of them even knew existed.
This is who is primarily damaged by the Quabular efforts against the Cartels, intentionally or otherwise. They are not doing enough to permanently cripple any of the largest Cartels, who are using the threat of the Quabular to pressure the smaller Cartels into submission, undercut their rivals, and expand their reach.
In a way, it can be argued that the Quabular are only empowering the most powerful – and vile – of the hutts, by being indiscriminate in who they target. At the same time, it cannot be denied that handing the Cartels as a whole a defeat, and forcing them to invest credits where they otherwise would not, is inflicting a heavier cost than most have achieved.
What is certain is that so long as the hutts are around, the Quabular's work will never be done.
THE VONG ENCLAVE: The Quabular hold a peculiar animosity towards the yuuzhan vong in a way that goes beyond the time they once tried to subjugate the galaxy. Nearly four centuries after the vong's attempted invasion of the galaxy, most people are content to leave the Vong Enclave to its own devices. The vong themselves also tend to know better than to overtly traverse the galaxy.
Most people are content to live and let live.
The Quabular are not.
As far as the Quabular are concerned, the yuuzhan vong are not real. Their existence outside the Force renders them an unnatural, artificial abomination, one that must be cleansed from the galaxy. This appears to be their logic based on what little we have gathered from off-hand comments. This has some validity, as there are few other reasons why they would hold such a genocidal view.
There is extremely circumspect evidence tying this animosity to the Jur'bwar. While we cannot directly connect them to the vong, there was a notable shift in Quabular attitude toward Force-repulsive organisms like the ysalamiri following the Jur'bwar's appearance. Prior to this, they held no real opinion of the creatures outside of avoiding contact with them. Now, they hold near-genocidal indignation for the furry lizards. This hatred has only increased following the near-destruction of Myrkr in an asteroid strike a century ago – with surviving ysalamiri propagating through Dacian efforts.
The vong, like ysalamiri, are something that the Quabular have been known to go out of their way to hunt and kill. The Kaarnan have sanctioned operations specifically to eliminate vong, some of whom wander the galaxy in disguise outside the Enclave. While the Quabular have not targeted the Enclave directly, they appear to have an agenda that effectively condemns any vong outside it to death.
Vong as a rule do not associate themselves with organized crime, or participate in criminal activity – outside of a handful of outcasts found amongst pirate crews and mercenary bands. They take pains to not attract attention, and not individuals who would naturally run afoul of the Quabular.
Yet what they have or have not done is immaterial. They are vong, so they must die.
It is doubtful that the Vong Enclave knows of this animosity, since they rarely maintain contact with any vong outside the Enclave. At most, they may hear of a large number of vong going missing or being targeted, but considering they are vong, it is unlikely they would believe they are being specifically targeted by one group.
The list of possible perpetrators is not a short one. The Quabular are far from the only group to have standing bounties on vong – but it can be said that the Quabular appear to be the most successful.
It may be worth passing this to the Enclave, though this is a matter for the Bureau of Foreign Affairs to answer.
THE GALACTIC ALLIANCE: The Quabular have never held a positive opinion of the Galactic Alliance, but it seems that only recently have they moved to consider them an active, hostile presence to be targeted.
Previously, if the Quabular operated in the Alliance, it was more a matter of proximity and circumstance, rather than an action deliberately undertaken against the Alliance as an entity. This calculus has shifted in recent years. The Quabular appear to now consider the Alliance an actively corruptive force that must be stymied and opposed – similar to how they view the Hutt Cartels in the Outer Rim.
We are aware that there are Quabular operatives on long-term assignment in the Core and Mid-Rim. Previously, most Quabular in the Alliance tended to restrict their operations to the border systems, where there was less centralization, oversight, and chance of interference by local authorities or Jedi. They have changed these guidelines, but are being more selective in who they send, and who they target.
In contrast to their operations against the hutts, there is evidence to suggest the Quabular intend to execute a larger plan with their operations in Alliance Space, not simply remove corrupt and criminal officials as they find them. The Alliance has pressure points, faults, and administrative cohesion that the hutts do not.
Unlike the Outer Rim, there is a certain expectation held by citizens on the conduct of their leaders. Corruption and criminality must have a veneer of subtlety and a legalistic façade. You cannot openly be a criminal in the Galactic Alliance – not if you want to last long, at least.
Currently, the Alliance appears to be unaware of this shift in Quabular perceptions, and it is unclear what they would do to combat it. In our assessment, the AIS would likely not interfere with discovered Quabular plots, but instead attempt to use them or exploit the aftermath.
The AIS has historically shown little interest in proactively protecting the Senate, or corrupt officials (that they cannot utilize themselves), and they might only feel compelled to act if pressured by the Senate – or if Quabular operations posed a threat to the security or stability of the Alliance.
Similarly, the Jedi who might encounter the Quabular are unlikely to prevent them from carrying out their operations, so long as the targets are either notorious or irrelevant. Jedi Justiciars have been known to work with the Quabular, and the Quabular are viewed relatively positively by the Sphere of the Militant Order and Sphere of Law and Justice – two groups of Jedi the Quabular are most likely to encounter.
This relatively tolerant behavior might change if the Quabular begin to target high-profile senators, individuals in prominent positions, or major military, Alliance, or corporate leaders. It is difficult to see this being overlooked.
We do not have any evidence that the Quabular have included the Jedi in their calculus, and appear to consider them an entirely separate entity from the Galactic Alliance, despite how interlocked both groups are.
However, it would be surprising if the Jedi were not taken into account at all, and does raise questions about where they ultimately factor into the Quabular – and why they have yet to target the Jedi in any significant way, considering their own corruption and ties to the Alliance.
[THE FOLLOWING HAS BEEN CLASSIFIED BLUE-5 BY ORDER OF SOVEREIGN PELLAEON]
THE GRAY PALADINS: The inclusion of this group may appear strange, and carries with it implications that require extensive knowledge of the Gray Paladins – most of which the galaxy at large is ignorant of.
For the uninitiated, the popular understanding of the Gray Paladins is, at best, misleading, and at worst, active misinformation. The Gray Paladins are often reduced to 'Jedi who use blasters' which is perhaps one of the most laughable summarizations I have heard. They are also condensed to 'gray Jedi,' as in those Jedi who left the Order because of too many rules, regulations, bureaucracy, and that the Gray Paladins are people who are 'doing the real work.'
This stereotype is primarily the fault of popular fiction, primarily in crime media, literature, novels, and holodramas. The 'former Jedi turned Gray Paladin' is a popular trope, and the portrayal is usually as unsubtle and ham-fisted as you'd expect. It is certainly entertaining – but not based in any kind of reality.
The truth is that the Gray Paladins are one of the most dangerous organizations in the galaxy, and comparing them to the Jedi in any way demonstrates that one knows nothing about what the Gray Paladins really are.
They are not crime fighters. They are not 'gray Jedi.' They are not vigilantes.
They are mercenaries.
They advertise themselves as an elite mercenary group, one that is only available to those who can afford them. Mercenaries, they emphasize, who are trained in the Force. Some of them are former Jedi, but many of them are not. They do not have a large profile, because similar to groups like the Consortium, they gear their services towards a very specific, wealthy, and powerful clientele.
You do not hire the Gray Paladins through the HoloNet or on bounty boards. You find them on the Golden Board, or through a referral. The Gray Paladins will not deal with people who cannot even afford their basic services, and have cultivated a reputation of complete professionalism, competence, and success.
Their official success rate is 99.8 percent – and it is not out of the realm of possibility that the only reason they chose that number was because they believe it would be too implausible to their clientele that their record was perfect.
What makes them most attractive is that they are amoral even by the standards of mercenaries. So long as they are paid, they will do whatever is asked. Protection services, assassination, the range of services the Gray Paladins offer is broad, and they have no qualms about the specifics. Their only concern is completing the job, and completing it above and beyond expectations.
However, this is not why the Gray Paladins are notable. While they are certainly elite, they are hardly the only elite mercenary group who has similar professional standards and conduct whose primary concern is payment. It's a big galaxy, and if this were the only distinguishing aspect, it truthfully wouldn't be special.
But it isn't. They are not just an elite mercenary organization. Nor are they an apolitical or profit-focused group. They have an agenda beyond providing services, and when they're not providing these services to their clients, they are working behind the scenes to implement it.
And that agenda is dictated to them by the GenoHaradan.
While we do not believe that the Gray Paladins are an official arm of the GenoHaradan, it is almost certain that they are one of the most dangerous of its resources. Their connections to the GenoHaradan are extensive. There are Gray Paladins who are full members, they receive direct tasks from the GenoHaradan, and have an official GenoHaradan liaison embedded in their leadership.
I am aware Imperial Intelligence has done a full report on the Grey Paladins, and I would reference this for more information if possessing sufficient clearance. For now, this provides a sufficient overview on why the Gray Paladins are significant enough to include on this list.
With this context, one can see a few reasons why the Gray Paladins would be particularly hated by the Quabular. The Quabular have a strict code of conduct and morality. The Gray Paladins will do whatever is asked of them so long as they are paid. The Quabular have no tolerance for corruption, the Sith, or the dark side. The Gray Paladins could at best be said to hold a neutral view of the Force, and do not care about light or dark.
Most importantly, the Gray Paladins are the group that is most likely to be able to stop the Quabular – and has. No matter what you might have heard, the Grey Paladins are not weak in the Force – and because of their work, they are more likely than most groups to encounter the Quabular.
Every time that a Quabular has failed or been successfully deterred, it has usually been because a Gray Paladin was in the vicinity and targeted someone they were working with or protecting.
This clash does not always end in the Gray Paladin's favor, of course, but it is telling that the presence of one is enough to give even an experienced Quabular pause. Both groups are well aware of each other, and almost certainly consider the other an active threat to their respective interests.
It has reached a point that the leadership of both groups has authorized or ordered operations specifically targeting members of the other, should they become aware of them. This has intensified in recent years, especially as the Quabular have shifted their focus to the Galactic Alliance – where GenoHaradan interests are very clearly entrenched.
The GenoHaradan consider themselves the judge, jury, and executioner of the Alliance – and have not reacted kindly to usurpers in this respect.
We do not know if the Quabular are aware of the Gray Paladin connection to the GenoHaradan, but even if they are, I would not expect it would change anything. It might even result in them intensifying operations, as they would doubtless see the GenoHaradan as another example of the deep rot infecting the Galactic Alliance as a whole.
[SECTION CLASSIFICATION ENDS]
THE QUABULAR : RELATIONS WITH THE MANDALORIANS
The relationship that the Quabular have with the Mandalorians is one that is more complicated at first glance, because it is often approached from the incorrect idea that the Mandalorians are a zeitgeist and that each aspect of it is in alignment.
In the interest of clarification, this section will break the groups that claim a 'Mandalorian' identity into three broad groups: The independent clans and individual Mandalorian actors, the so-called 'dishonored' clans, and lastly the Mandalorian Tribe. The Mandalorian Union is exempt due to their own isolation, and to our knowledge, we do not believe the Quabular have ever visited Mandalorian Union Space nor have they reached out to the Quabular.
The Quabular tend to interact minimally with the first group, if they're encountered at all. There is no animosity any longer between Quabular and the average Mandalorian, and the differences within and between the various clans often mean that many do not even know of the Quabular's Mandalorian founding. Those that do either don't care or remember the role the Quabular played in ending the rule of Mandalore the Butcher. Only a few maintain negative views of the Quabular, and both groups mutually avoid the other.
For the second group, needless to say, the dishonored Mandalorians and the Quabular do not get along. Considering that those in dishonored Mandalorian clans engage in mass criminal activity, to include slavery, pillaging, drug production and distribution, and a myriad of other crimes, the Quabular are responsible for the extinction of at least six independent clans.
The Mandalorian Tribe holds a different place compared to the previous two groups, and there is something resembling a… low-key respect between them and the Quabular.
It is likely that this shared (and unexpected) kinship is because of a similar foundation, as the Tribe is also a splinter that separated from mainstream Mandalorians a long time ago, and have since developed a distinct culture and way of life.
It is especially interesting because despite the largely isolationist ways of the Tribe, those who go out into the galaxy have been known to work for groups that the Quabular despise. There have been cases of Quabular and Tribals ending up on different sides, often with the Tribal losing the bout. However, the Quabular always return the armor to the Tribe, and there seems to be no change in how they view each other.
We cannot explain this behavior satisfactorily at this time. It has been suggested that the Quabular are willing to 'overlook' it because the Tribe Mandalorians do have a strict code they keep to, which prevents them from engaging in immoral activity – though not from being associated with it. For example, a Tribe Mandalorian may work as a bodyguard for a crime lord, but will not perform any action outside of what they deem appropriate, even if ordered.
Under the tenets of the Tribe, it is acceptable to make immoral associations that benefit the Tribe as a whole, which is why they can be found performing questionable work in the wider galaxy. The Quabular appear willing to respect this logic – or at least it doesn't hinder their standing relationship with the Tribe.
It is worth keeping watch on. There may be more to this relationship than we know.
THE QUABULAR : RELATIONS WITH THE JEDI
To say the Quabular and the Jedi have a complicated relationship would be the most banal summarization one could make.
A more accurate one would be to say that the spectrum of perception ranges from mere distrust to outright hostility. While the Quabular do not consider the Jedi one of their 'enemies' per se, they are most certainly not friends, and both have reasons to dislike the other.
The Quabular view many of the Jedi as perpetuating an unjust and immoral status quo with their unconditional support of the Alliance, something they also directly benefit from. They assess that the Jedi have prioritized power over adhering to the tenets of their code, and view many in the Order as corrupted as a result.
They do have a more positive view on some Spheres, particularly Law and Justice, Outreach and Aid, and the Militant Order – with the caveat that, outside of Outreach and Aid, even these remain in service of the Alliance. At the same time, there have been instances of Justicars and Quabular working together, as the Justicars are effective vigilantes in their own right, and often hold sympathetic views.
As for how the Jedi view the Quabular, they have a myriad of complaints against them, but none of them are as universal as the Trial of Purity. Intentionally causing the fall of an individual to the dark side is universally seen as irresponsible, immoral, hypocritical, and of limited actual worth. Every Jedi, even those who are sympathetic to the Quabular, believes it to be an unforgivable practice with no legitimate justification.
It is for this specific reason that some Jedi consider the Quabular a sect that should be actively combated instead of merely disapproved of. Outside of this trial, they also tend to view the Quabular as self-righteous vigilantes and assassins who are interested in nothing but causing chaos and anarchy, and who leave others to handle the aftermath.
The majority of the Jedi ultimately see them as a strange, possibly heretical sect that is best avoided. They generally do not have a positive opinion of the Quabular, but they also don't actively hate them without sufficient reason. The same mostly holds true on the Quabular side. Neither tend to like the other, and will avoid unnecessary interaction – but barring a situation where one will absolutely not work with the other, there are cases where both groups will – albeit reluctantly – cooperate.
Neither side appears willing to take any steps to improve this relationship. Neither the Jedi Council or the Kaarnan have met, even unofficially, and this is unlikely to change. For now, the Quabular and Jedi alike have settled into an uncomfortable status quo.
THE QUABULAR : GOALS AND FUTURE PLANS
While it can be stated with confidence that the Quabular have their own agenda, and almost certainly steps to achieve it, it is difficult to assess these objectives with even a moderate degree of certainty. The existing template is not useful in assessing the Quabular, because the Quabular as an organization do not have geopolitical ambitions or specific objectives that are made public or are comparable to other state or group actors.
Very little is likely to change in how they conduct themselves. They are not a large entity, and have prioritized isolation and ensuring self-sufficiency over foreign policy. While they will continue to send their people into the galaxy, particularly the Outer Rim, the scale of these incursions is ultimately limited.
It is almost certain that the Quabular are pursuing a specific objective, and their shift towards targeting the Galactic Alliance is an indication of their current priorities – though whether they are simply shifting their focus, or have specific intentions for the Galactic Alliance is unclear.
Because of how insular the Quabular and the Kaarnan are, another indication of their actions will be what they cease doing. If they begin to cease other traditional operations, or otherwise significantly deviate from expected behavior – such as recalling all Quabular from non-Alliance-based operations – that would be a major sign that something significant is planned.
THE QUABULAR : THREAT ANALYSIS
Compared to many other Force-using organizations, this is one of the few that poses a minimal threat to the Fellan Imperium. While there is no formal alliance with the Quabular, their continued cooperation and proactive outreach with the Imperium is representative of how they currently view the Imperium.
The Quabular have assisted Imperium operations, and provided us actionable information later used to successfully achieve objectives. They have both proactively sought our support, or been receptive to our own outreach. They clearly view the Imperium as a limited partner in their efforts throughout the Outer Rim, though this is almost certainly the limit of their cooperation.
There is also a limited degree of cultural overlap, primarily concerning crime, substance use, and other criminal vices. While the Quabular almost certainly do not consider the Imperium a 'moral' society, they do acknowledge that there are redeeming aspects to Imperium culture – something they notably do not give any other galactic organization or government.
We would expect the view of the Quabular on the Imperium to only change in the event that the Imperium drastically shifts its approach to the Outer Rim, to the Quabular directly, or underwent a significant cultural shift that changed significant elements of Imperium culture – particularly the aspects that the Quabular view positively.
In light of the evidence and low possibility of any significant changes in the Quabular or the Imperium, it is recommended that this relationship be maintained.
CONCLUSION
The Quabular are an unusual, complex, and enigmatic organization. We do not know everything that we want to about them, and these gaps should not be overlooked, even if they can be mitigated based on their observed behavior and stated objectives.
While the Quabular may be a small, and largely obscure group by galactic standards, this should not be grounds for underestimating their potential impact. We know how even a small group or even an individual can make an outsized impact, should the circumstances align. And the Quabular are not just a small, obscure group when they can count powerful Force-users among their number.
Their culture, rituals, and ways are ultimately more alien and familiar, both to us, and the galaxy at large. While this report has endeavored to understand them, their views on the galaxy, and their place in it is a perspective that I suspect can only be truly understood by one of their members. We can look at how they live, how they act, and the reasons they provide – but there's a limit to what can be understood or explained.
The Quabular have an agenda that is larger than we first anticipated. We can now say this with moderate confidence. The larger question is what this agenda is. Their connections span across the galaxy; from fringe groups such as the Mandalorian Tribe, to the Galactic Triumvirate through the Imperium. Their reach is theoretically limitless, and currently extends to the Core.
Many of them have explicit missions to complete. They aren't all simply wandering the galaxy looking to do good or fight evil. This, more than anything, is what should let us see the Quabular with clear eyes. They are an ally to our own efforts in the Outer Rim, and this should not change – rather, it should be clear that the Quabular see us the same way we do them.
As a useful ally to cooperate with when circumstances permit.
But their interests are not ours. Their plans are not ours. And we can very easily see that if their perception changes, especially in the case of the Galactic Alliance, they will treat them accordingly. All alliances are underlined by convenience, and we should not become reliant on or attached to the Quabular forever.
As long as we do not forget this, then they should continue to be an ally. At the same time, we should not stop watching them, or attempting to assess their plans. Whatever their agenda might be, it is almost certainly not a small one, and it is very likely that we are the only ones positioned to learn about it.
Xabiar's Note: Two years is better than nothing, right? It's funny that this took so long to do – I've had it outlined for that same period of time, but never got around to actually finishing this. Still, I'm glad to finally finish up the last part of this interesting group. If there were any lingering questions about the Quabular, I hope that this answered some of them.
They'll definitely have a part to play in SotP too, don't worry.