[ Of course, by virtue of the fact that Bastila herself has been trained as a Bene Gesserit, she ought to be subject to the same distrust and wariness, and thus she does not have the right to view Jessica through that lens. Still, there are secrets within secrets and plans behind plans and she finds that even though she does not want to eye Jessica questioningly, she also realizes she cannot entirely help it.

But perhaps it is not simply about questioning Jessica, the Bene Gesserit; perhaps it is that Bastila wonders about her intentions and decisions concerning Paul. Of course, it is hardly Bastila's place to question what Jessica does about her own son.

Still, in a world where everyone has their own secrets built upon secrets, a part of Bastila wishes that such delicate dances were not required to attain one's goals. ]

No one knows the skills of the Bene Gesserit better than you. [ Bastila is quick to reply, because she believes what she says. ] I have never liked keeping secrets from anyone, but I am sure that if this is something Paul is not to know, there is a reason for it.

[ She falls silent then, to allow Jessica to speak uninterrupted. As she continues, a knowing expression takes Bastila's face, and she finds that she does not like the knowledge that she has. She knows exactly what Jessica is talking about and why she does not want her saying anything to Paul before the time is right. ]

I see why you said to not say anything, why you waited until we were alone. But Paul will pass this test, this training. I am sure of it.

[ If there is one thing she is sure of, it is that Paul will pass any test that is put to him. To consider otherwise is unthinkable. ]

Would you rather have me withdraw from him, present a cold exterior? [ She feels herself shaking her head at the suggestion. Such a thing would not be easy for her to do, but if it is an order, what choice does she have? ]

So I should ensure that my answers are satisfactory, then.

[ Politics, indeed. ]