Tython

[Tobias Vos]

Vos sighed, his eyes venturing down the path- then skyward. The crystal blue of the sky was… calming. How had he not appreciated the views he was granted more? Countless worlds, countless ships, and dozens of space stations. They were all remarkable in some manner. Intimidating to peaceful and anywhere inbetween. A part of him felt regret. Why had he been so angry? There was no point to any of it, at least the bits he remembered.

 

The warm air filled his lungs. Words could not describe how refreshing it was. In the depths of Gala to recycled air in the ship they were in. Vos appreciated the simple things now- more so than he had. While his mind mused over the simple things- thoughts swirled in and out of his head. The planet- the town they were upon- the history.

 

The history.

 

It was like a gunshot had gone off- his thoughts blank for a moment. Maybe his jaw dropped as well, Vos was unaware. He rubbed his hands against themselves, making sure his gloves were there to protect from any contact with the surface. The flashbacks he was privy to on Gala would not be so welcome here. This was the Jedi homeword. Albeit the ancient Je’daii Order, but it was a brilliant place to be with the history in the buildings, landscape, and even the path they walked on. Tobias wondered if he even should. Maybe memories here should be buried, and kept there.

 

A slight breeze came about, and he felt his bald head get goosebumps- then all the way back down his neck. Silently, he nodded. It was a sign, and that much he acknowledged.

 

Tobias still was within earshot of the trio of Jedi, grateful for the increased distance between him and the wookiee. “Indeed. I am curious to see what sparked the disappearance- and now… the awakening. You all feel it don’t you? It’s faint, but the Force is clear- wielders of the Force are popping up. It will be interesting to see if the people of the Galaxy want us back. Or even allow us back.”

 

So far, they hadn’t- he remembered getting off of Taris and the mercenary crew that attacked he and Dahar.

 

The sky was glorious. It was as if it were perfect, just for them. Almost too perfect, he thought he had seen this on the holonet as a advertisement. If he grew out his hair a little bit- and if Dahar was a droid- it would be too relatable to the holonet. What was that ad for? Tobias questioned himself before pushing the thought aside. Odd.

[Dahar Raikanda]

Dahar continued with the party through the forest. The path stretched before them like an amber-stone-trail.

 

"Yes, I feel it. It's like something stirred, pushing us all up to the surface. I mean, we never really vanish right? Some of us die... temporarily or forever... but those of us who touch the Force will always find our way back to each other. Like... force osmosis or something."

 

"As far as the others, I honestly don't know Xae. I'm hoping to find that out. Master Starlisk, Master Trevelian... I feel like they're gone. I don't know for sure but I feel a void where their large presences would be. But there are other Jedi out there. Other lights in the darkness. Some bright and some dim. I suspect Kirlocca and I aren't all that's left of the old council. We shall see."

 

The party moved on the woods disappeared suddenly.

[Kyrie Eleison]

.::Believe the truth, the power of the light consumes all darkness. The power of The Dark Side is like an ouroboros, it will devour itself and collapse into the oblivion of corruption::.

 

Kyrie’s emerald eyes sprung open, the fog of dreams clinging to her mind like tendriled roots of ivy upon dark-wrought stone. Her jet-black hair hung loose and damp upon her neck, the sweat of a troubled sleep turning cold in the morning air. Far too long had been her mind in the darkness. With her nail-bitten fingers playing at the rosary about her thin wrist, the troubled Jedi slipped out of her sweat-stained tunic and stepped into the refresher, selecting hydration instead of sonic. She needed the shock of cold water to awaken her dream-bound mind. Her pale and scarred body slipped into the stream of cold water, and her mind was awoken fresh, washed clean of dark thoughts of years past. With her mind set to ease, Kyrie slipped into a new set of the black robes of her order, the Exorcists, and stepped into the hallway of Tython’s Jedi Temple.

 

With eager footsteps, the Jedi Knight walked swiftly to one of the many Forest paths to begin the day’s ritualizations. She had to prepare for the rise of the Sith that was always imminent. As the paved pathway gave way to brown earth, Kyrie quickened her pace into a jog, letting her dark robes flow about her, the soft earth caressing each step just as did the wind. The air smelled sweet with the fresh-fallen rain, the dampness giving rise to the smell of nature, simple bacterial disintegration of fallen flora, the spores of a million different fungi kicked up by her footsteps. Nature had a way of comforting the soul like nothing else in the galaxy.

 

Her black boots slowed as she reached an isolated meadow, scarred with upturned earth. Two days prior a meteorite had kicked up the soil of her favourite training grounds. Her face set in determination, just as darkness crumbled in upon itself, so did the light fall to entropy. Kyrie reached into her mind and beckoned the Force to flow through her. She could feel it within her like an ember, and she stroked it into white-hot flame. Thumbing on her long-handled lightsaber, the young jedi began to weave bright flashes of silver light into the song of the Force.

 

Vom Tag came naturally to Kyrie, the glittering silver-white light of her lightsaber striking through the morning dew. The upturned earth began to glow with the power of the force, and to any who passed by who were sensitive in the Force, a melody of war could be felt coursing through the meadow. Battle was where the Force could be found the strongest, nothing would feel more right than to purge the darkness with righteous flame.

[Xae-Lin Ardel]

Before them the Tython Jedi Haven emerged from the forest's grasp. It’s sudden appearance combined with the wash of the Light Side Xae felt surging through her now caused the young woman’s breath to catch. It hadn’t been since leaving Dathomir that she felt this much Force-energy in one place, now knowing that Dathomir’s radiance was due to the sheer biomass of the planet. This was different though. Where as the Force on Dathomir simply just seemed to be, things felt more alive here to her, awash and dancing in the brilliance that was the Light Side of the Force. It made her feel stronger.

 

In the part of her that had imprinted with Il Andon’s teachings it resonated of home. In the same moment it reminded her sharply of the people she’d left behind - Kyrie, her Padawan and her niece, Ineira.

 

Cautiously she reached out, allowing the temples energy to wash over her and through her.

-------

As the dust sprung up around Xae she used a Force Shield to protect her eyes, nose and mouth, but still found herself unable to see through the thick cloud of dust that now swirled in storm around her. The Force was her ally though, and she didn't need her eyes to see. Knowing that through the screen of dust, her jade-bladed lightsaber would mark her as a target she deactivated the blade.

 

The fact that this girl had managed to tap into the Force so well made Xae wonder if there was something that Kyrie had not yet shared with her. It felt old, ancient, almost as haunting as the song that the girl had been singing which now seemed to echo within the Force around them. Xae'd been told by her original Master, Kyp Durron, of certain artifacts that would sometimes possess Force Users, many of these being dark side in nature. This concerned the Jedi Knight, and she was determined to get to the bottom of it as soon as this fight was over.

 

She sensed that Kyrie had been pained by the exertion, but also noticed instead of harnessing the pain to gain strength as a dark user would, she released it to the Force and seemed to be regaining her balance. Definitely one of the most promising Padawans that Xae had had the opportunity to work with in a long time. Knowing how powerful this one was in the Force made it all the more imperative to Xae to guide her properly in the the path of Light.

 

She used the cloud for cover as she pushed it back towards Kyrie, engulfing them both and giving it another kick with the Force as she slipped silently behind her Padawan and swept low, knocking Kyrie's feet from under her and then spinning as she activated her lightsaber, the tip stopping just mere inches from Kyrie's throat. With a wave of her hand Xae dispersed the dust cloud, and glanced down at the young woman.

 

"You fight well Kyrie, tell me, where did you pick up that particular trick?" She didn't bother to hide the genuine interest from her voice as she posed the question, and extended a hand to help her student up as she deactivated the lightsaber blade.

 

----

 

Just like that, she snapped back to the present as though the memory had become fragmented. It was here that Kyrie guided me along my first steps on the path of the Exorcist. she thought to herself as her eyes fell once more to the ornate temple that harmoniously blended in with its surroundings at the same time.

 

From what she recalled of the events, she’d been pulled through time and space to an instance when the temple on Tython was in great peril. With the help of ancient Jedi, including Il-Andon, she and Kyrie had cleansed the temple of the Sith incursion. This temple held great power and even greater secrets that Xae felt were only beginning to reveal themselves. Still, those were thoughts left for another time. The Order was awakening and it was time to play her part in shaping its future.

 

“We should at least try to reach the other temples. If the others have become beacons for the light, much like this ancient safe haven, then there is a chance there are more of us out there than we think. It’s at least worth a try Masters. We may yet be surprised by what the Force has in store for its servants.”

[Kyrie Eleison]

.::The Light Side’s power can be concentrated in areas of great power, the Force is not only concentrated in you. It binds us all together everything in the natural and spiritual realm… From within and without an Exorcist finds power::.

Silver light flashed through the cold air, the lightsaber’s song mixing with the light pattering of raindrops on freshly upturned earth. The moist, black earth gave the Jedi’s dance a spring as she flew through the patterns of Vom Tag. The powerful swings came through the rippling of force-enhanced musculature, momentum of one swing channeling to another or to a kick, a free-flowing dance of strength. White light shone from her hands, whispering tendrils of verse and song trapped in the essence of the Force.

 

Kyrie could feel the energy of the Temple complex stirring to life about her, ancient songs from history long past. Too few were the songs of the ancient Exorcists. Il-Andon had often told her that the Exorcists’ path was one not oft traveled. It took the soul too close to the darkness, far too many fell into evil. Black robes, terrifying power, lightsaber tactics emphasizing power, it was something few Jedi wanted. The Order was far more content to sit in high towers and meditate on useless things. It was no wonder so many of the Exorcists had fell to Revanchism, a path that Kyrie had no doubt she would have followed if given the chance. A choice between intervening and putting an end to evil, or sitting back and watching the galaxy burn. She would much rather step away from The Order and actually make a difference.

 

.::Focus on the here and now. Wishing for a repeat of history will only leave your mind under a thousand stars, instead of what lies before you::.

 

A familiar presence echoed through her soul, causing her blade to pause mid-strike. The phantom she fought fading into the Force. Kyrie stretched out her hand into the wave of raindrops that passed around her, patterns like a tapestry of the past stretching out into the meadow. Palm upwards, she beckoned the rain to form a physical manifestation upon her scarred hand.

 

Xae-Lin Ardel…

 

Reaching out into the song of the Force, Kyrie sent forth a pulse directed towards her master’s presence, and poured her mind into it. It would appear as a spirit, black with silver light streaming like blood down its tattered robes. A physical manifestation of her soul, rescued from wretchedness by the Force, molded by a history of pain and sorrow but not defined by it.

 

...Master...

[Wookiee Jedi]

Kirlocca held most of his thoughts in, just simply walking and thinking about Vos and why he would be attempting to keep his distance. Dahar, and what sort of journey the man had been on since the last time the two saw each other. Then Xae, her and her powers have been a rare gift, and what sort of movement the Force would have in store for her now that it awoke her from a deep slumber. These were things that kept his mind occupied for a long while. It was't until the view of the temple and the pick up of chatter that brought his mind back.

 

<< I have no doubt that there are others, and that they would be alive and well. Contacting them is something we must do. But not at the sake of letting other priorities fall through. The Jedi need to be established again, that is priority one. Contacting others is not. >>

[Tobias Vos]

Vos continued on the path with the group. The planet was interesting- there was always something new that caught his eye. As they were leaving the forest behind, they were about to crest the hill- and what lay beyond it was their destination. This yellow road was an odd color. What had inspired it?

 

The three conversed among themselves. A slight mental probe popped up, then disappeared as soon as it was there. Most likely Kirlocca, the wookiee had been curious about the Kiffar. Vos would not indulged the Jedi just yet, or maybe even ever. Another strange sensation came around him- as if he was being watched. Not through the Force- as he was anticipating- but rather, physically... it was a little unnerving.

 

A twinge at the edge of his cheek flashed for a moment. These Jedi were not discussing the possibility of the galaxy resisting Force User's return. The galaxy had changed a bit in the absence of everyone the past few years, it may not change back. He would keep his mouth shut, and formulate his own plan- should the need for a plan arise.

[Xae-Lin Ardel]

Xae turned to block the Wookiee Master's path as rain began to fall. "Forgive me Master Kirlocca, but how are we supposed to rebuild the order if we don't reach out to those that remain? Our parts only work if we communicate as a whole. Contacting the others out there is merely the first step on the path. Or is it simply that you feel the Force will draw them to us?"

 

Just then, she felt the faint and familiar whispers in the back of her mind. Kyrie…so Il-Andon has awakened you as well? As though bidden by her thoughts, the echoes of a form began to appear behind Kirlocca, sliver tendrils of Force energy that reflected in the rain to form a shape that ultimately resolved itself to the transparent and silvery form of her former Padawan. From the look of her it seemed the girl’s soul still still bore the scars of darkness.

[Wookiee Jedi]

<< Call them to what exactly? >>

 

Kirlocca turned around and stopped himself before the main entrance to the Jedi Temple, halting the progress of Dahar, Xae, and Vos. He looked at each one before he spoke.

 

<< A temple with Jedi in it that have no plan, have no leadership, and has no means of guidance? Let us remember that there is a bounty on Force users. Just because we made it here without running into any bounty hunters doesn't mean the rest of the Jedi will. And even if they do make it here, gathering in one spot doesn't seem like the best idea. >>

 

Kirlocca now folded his arms across his chest and made his presence well known in the Force to the three of them.

 

<< Surely you have felt what I have. Me coming out of exile, Xae awakening... The Force is stirring and awakening those who it can touch. The galaxy is turning and moving with the Force. We'd be making a mistake if we didn't stop to figure out why. We need to make sure we know how we want to present ourselves back into the galaxy before we get ourselves wiped out again. If there are other Jedi still alive, or have been awoken by the Force, they will know we are here. >>

[Tobias Vos]

The rain fell softly around Vos. It was a very weird feeling- feeling it on the top of his bald head. It was warm- a silver lining. Feeling out the area, whispers stirred within the Force. Taking a glove off his hand, he extended it to feel the rain fall against it. The grin on his face was wide- his eyes closed- but he saw with the Force. The vibrations of the rain drops was such a rush to his senses.

 

Kirlocca stopped the group- and just a few more seconds away from the entrance to the temple. With his eyes still closed, he saw the events unfold without missing a step.

 

"Shouldn't you call out to them- get everyone's opinion before you start to move forward? If they are Jedi- they maybe feeling alone, isolated. Maybe they were operating while we were all...." Vos paused to find the right word- he reached his other palm out and up to feel the rain. It was clear that they were going to have this discussion in the rain. "... indisposed... Maybe they know something to the reason why our kind disappeared? Either way- I'm sure some of them feel the pull- I can feel them acknowledging the ripples in the Force. Thought Tython was hidden away? Bounty Hunters wouldn't risk themselves for a few credits on the home world of the Jedi- foreign territory for most. Most are smarter than that."

 

Tobias opened his eyes- Xae and Kirlocca were facing each other- some mild tension? "The Force has a plan for us all. Surely we can have this conversation inside? The temperature is changing, and Xae- I worry of your health with your recent injury. Last thing we need is to stay out in the cold rain." His voice carried a bit of weight with it- some authority carried on it.

 

"Things are already in motion..." Vos had put his gloves back on, walking to the side of Xae and Kirlocca- he glanced at them, and almost through them. His eyes were directed at them, but it was as if he was focusing on something else. With a blink, he turned his head towards the temple and continued towards the temple with no other words.

 

Vos felt Kirlocca's posturing in the Force. What was he trying to prove? What was Vos even trying to prove? He wasn't part of the Jedi...

 

The rain felt so- wonderful against his senses, Vos was a tad caught up in the rush.

[Kyrie Eleison]

.:: When the galaxy is cast in shadow, that is when the light is of its greatest use. The Force awakens us all in our turn to fight against the dark ::.

 

Dark clods of upturned earth clung to her blackened boots like moss to stone as Kyrie’s pace quickened towards her master’s presence in the force. Within the song of the Force, the signature of Xae-Lin Ardel shone like a ray of sunlight through a rainstorm and towards it she ran at full tilt. The rain ran frigid against her skin, raising the hairs and flesh on her body, drawing skin tight as she ran. The muscles beneath her scarred, pale skin pulsed with echos of the song, driving away fatigue with white flame. Raising her long-handled lightsaber she focused the song through its silver light, casting a trail of flames through the dark, falling rain.

 

.::Tython is a bastion of the light, focus upon its ancient verse::.

 

With agile grace, Kyrie moved through the jungle her lightsaber guiding her path. It would have been easy to strike and blaze through the brush and vines like a machete, but that would show her path to any wishing to pursue. Beneath her feet, the jungle hummed with the song, the leaves waving through the wind upon which she followed. The presence of her master was growing stronger, each pulse of her master’s heart renewing the waves through which she ran. Beneath her feet the jungle gave way to an overgrown trail. She would soon be upon those whom she sought

[Dahar Raikanda]

Dahar couldn't help but hang on Tobias saying "our kind". It was a newer revelation that had slowly been opening itself up to him. In his youth it had always been the Jedi against the Sith. But now both sides seemed to have retreated into the shadows of the galaxy. Perhaps there was some common enemy out there. This could be true... but whenever it seemed like something was plotting to destroy the powers that be it was usually an even stronger Sith hidden away.

 

"I can't believe we're all that's left. We'd be able to feel the imbalance. Sure, things are off, but not that off. Master Kirlocca and I will attempt to reach out to the others when in the council chambers."

 

They were entering the temple now. The flow of the Light Side was strong here and it strengthened those who knew how to draw upon it. With each breath Dahar felt refreshed and restored. He was happy to see that this temple hadn't fallen into ruin.

 

There were people here, many of whom he could sense were not force users. There was always a crew of civilians, locals, who took care of the grounds and some of the goings-on of the buildings. There were, also, some ambiguous Jedi Knights who held to the duties of the temple. The library needed to be kept in order, people needed to be fed. Things were strange here thought, as if it the place had been cut off.

 

There were no younglings. There were, however, a group of minimally educated teenagers who appeared to have been trained by a skeleton crew of knights, and the holocron that powered the library. The Force had pushed them along in their journeys but without skilled teachers the students had made little progress.

 

None of the council was present. Dahar would have been able to sense another master. No, it was just him and Kirlocca. Other presences flickered in and out of his mind though. Dahar had met some of these people and could sense their signals calling out not to him but to his companions.

 

"Yes, you're right Tobias. The medical facilities here are sure to be in working order. It would be a great help to us if you would go with Xae."

 

Dahar turned to speak to Xae, "You sense something, someone, no? The Force will guide. You'll find Master Kirlocca and I if you need us."

 

And lastly he spoke to his towering Wookiee friend. Dahar held some important tools on him. He was pretty sure Kirlocca could tell. "Shall we, my friend? I think a vacant council chamber awaits us."

[Sandy Sarna]

The shuttle whipped out of hyperspace with the suddenness of a supernova, the blue tunnel protecting them from harmful radiation peeling away into a mass of stars and a floating green orb. Though the piloting left much to be desired, within the space of a hour Sandy And her new friend landed at the Tython spaceport. With the end of Galactic War, tourism had shot up across the galaxy, and like many planets composed of lush forests, there was substantial traffic as compared to one decade earlier. The spaceport had not received the funding it was due for such a climb of visitors, or at least not initially. As such the amenities were at least two or three decades out of date, at least in the original landing zones. Though with some good land purchases and investors there had been some additional 'Luxury Stays' which included private landing zones, turbo lifts, bantha rides, swimming facilities, and even guided tours. Though it was not a destination planet per se, it could be given the proper funding.

 

The Jedi Sanctuary was far into the wilderness from the spaceport and could only be found by the will of the force. Or at least that is what the stories said. It was a secret, and no tourists had even come close to passing the outer perimeters.

 

At the boarding ramp Sandy sat, eyeing the pooling coolant from a Z-95 Headhunter that was parked in the next over zone. She considered that perhaps the owner should have paid for the repair services that came (at a price) with the facilities. With a heavy sigh, Sandy stood from tying her bootstraps and shouldered her daypack. She turned to the Avian.

 

"Are you ready to head out towards the Sanctuary? We will need to follow the force to get there. I have packed enough food for three days in case we get lost! Meanwhile we can enjoy the forests as we march along"

[Wookiee Jedi]

Kirlocca allowed for Dahar to lead him in and deep within he Jedi Temple. He was silent for the most part, only allowing for his robes and footsteps to make any noise. His own breath seemed to have slowed down and became as if he wasn't even breathing in air. As they walked, the Wookiee allowed for the Force to flow through him, bringing life back into his spirit and soul. He had indeed been gone for a long time, and his own connection with the Force was left rather untouched during his exile.

 

<< I regret nothing Dahar. My life, my actions, my past... It formed me. Made me how I am. I only say this to allow for you to know more of who I am. If I do retake a spot with the Jedi... Grandmaster even... My past will come forth and those who will want me to not be against them will do everything they can to destroy me and those who side with me. If you are not strong enough or if you think that the Order is not strong enough... now is the time to say something... >>

[Tobias Vos]

For a moment, Vos scowled at Dahar. Jaw tightened- he let his eyes scan over the crowd inside the temple. This wasn't right. No one approached, they all just continued on their tasks. The expert tracker could not place these people. It was as if his insight into the Force was fuzy- or being blocked here. Why? He knew he was within the Force's fold, but he couldn't feel it from these people.

 

Then he finally turned back to Xae, with one hand chasing the water out of the new beard on his face. "I suppose we have our orders." The words were said with a bite within a whisper- but not at Xae, he was glad to take Xae down to the infirmary, wherever they were going now was beyond him. Silently he did brush Xae's arm and took a step past her, asked one of the people in the area where to go. The guy Tobias had stopped pointed him down the hallway to the south. He turned to see if Xae was coming along, and she was. After they had gotten to the medical wing, the droids had told her she needed some time in a Bacta Tank. They said they would inform Vos when Xae was better.

 

He sensed no danger, or tricks, and he left it at that. Hesitant, he started to make his was back through the temple. He harrumphed at the irony. When he was intent on joining the Jedi, he had been monitored constantly at the temple at Gala. Here- at the heart of the Jedi. Birthplace, even... he was left to his own will. Now he was self-admitted something larger than the Jedi. He pressed on, tracking Dahar and Kirlocca's signature... and the random wookiee hairs that shed naturally. Plus the smell of wet wookiee fur.

 

Avoiding the gaze of others around the temple, he was as fast as he could be without outright sprinting.

 

*OOC: Xae said to post her out of the loop for awhile. I have the permission, and no one else has posted- ergo the edit.

Edited November 8, 2016 by Guest

[Trushaun]

Truashaun looked around as she stepped out of the shuttle. It was such a... indescribable. It was just wave after wave of the Force crushing down upon you. Quickly scanning the jungle and finding no immediate threats- the big avian eyes shot to the sky. A tingle in her spine, and along her crown of feathers. Reaching out with Tython bolstering her, she reached out to the other wolds inside the deep core. There is was- her planet.

 

She was so close, but unable to visit. Soft words played into Trushaun's ears from Sandy. Still taking her moment, Trushaun adjusted her bag across her shoulder, a gentle clink of jars was barely audible. Fosh, the world and her people, were there. The Jedi Knight could feel it... them... Her heart longed to just hop into the shuttle and just leave. But, the real world was here. Fantasy had to remain that- just a fantasy. A silent growl in her throat, she turned back to Sandy.

 

"What does Sandy feel, within Force?" The avian seemed intent to have a brief conversation before they even left the landing pad. This was just to touch base, see how the girl was feeling. Tython could be a bit- over bearing. Trushaun did not want to wander into the Jungle if the girl was feeling rushed or blinded.

[Sandy Sarna]

Sandy tightened the straps of her pack as they set off into the wilderness. Miles they walked. The trail was nearly non existent. Where there once had been years of nearly constant foot traffic there had dwindled down to nearly nothing. She could feel the call in the back of her head directing her up. Up the side of the stony mountain. She sighed. Climbing up a sharp patch of shale she sat in the shade of a wizened tree and opened her pack. Retrieving a bottle she gazed out with emerald eyes at the nearly setting sun.

 

 

“I feel everything. Life, death, love. It's all here packed so tight.” She tapped her forehead and then pointed to the expanse of dusk lit trees. “But here there is a different kind of life. It lifts the spirit, fills with a familiar loveliness. I almost want to cry.”

 

 

But she did not. Plus it would do them no good to be trying to sleep on shale. There was a lot of life on Tython. Most friendly but when night came. It was not always so safe. It would not do to have to fight their way through hunting packs of carnivores to get to the temple. Sandy lifted her pack and they set off again at a slightly faster pace. Sandy's hand staying ever close the battered handle at her waist.

[Trushaun]

Trushaun navigated through the trees and underbrush with ease. She was on her home turf- in her element. The air, the noise, the taste of sweat coming from her brow. This was a small state of pure bliss, at least for Trushaun. The Naturalist did not have a care in the world- not even the predators that she could feel out there. They were taking the hard way through the jungle, but perhaps it was for the best. Nothing worth anything was easy to get to. It also did not hurt to get some good exercise in.

 

"This is life in purest form." The replied to Sandy. The cliff was formidable, but passable with some plotting. Sandy was the lead here, and Trushaun would follow.

 

As they walked, Trushaun made small observations about the wildlife and the plants they encountered. Even collecting some seeds for her seemingly infinite supply of jars and containers. The area was getting darker by the minute, then Trushaun spoke up again. "If Sandy desires- Trushaun can make camp?" She was now getting a little tired and could keep going, but she did worry about her companion- even if it was unneeded or wanted.

[Sandy Sarna]

Sandy nodded. Perhaps setting up camp was best. She didn't know if she needed to unfurl a bedroll or build a roost for Trushaun. But she didn't dare ask. So as the sun fully set, they began to set up the camp. Within a few minutes the small tent from the backpack was set up and they were huddled around the glowlamp inside.

 

"You know, this has been a lot of fun." Sandy said sleepily. Yawning and cuddling into her bedroll. There would be time to discuss on the morrow.

 

A howl echoed from not very far away. And just like that, Sandy was very much awake.

 

"Spast, that is not what I wanted to hear!" Her mind raced. What could they be, Neks? Tuk'ata? She grabbed the saber from her belt and held it with white knuckled fingers.

[Trushaun]

Trushaun was not used to all the 'camping' things, or even the concept. It was all second nature to her. So she helped where she could- always feeling the Forest's energy around them. Being one with the vegetation was a key, also her entire life was based around it. Why Sandy kept doing regular people things here, was beyond Trushaun. But she had gone along with it. The tent was a downright offence to the Fosh. She could have found a the space between the roots of one of the trees- or-

 

Now she was being ridiculous. Experience the 'civilized' world, so she sat in the tent, like a fool- with no bedroll. She had always had a bed wherever there were trees. So when the howl came from outside, her eyes were wide open- now it was her turn to set up camp.

 

"Reach out, what does Sandy feel now? Feel the beasts?" Trushaun questioned as she exited the tent, zipping it up behind her. The conversation was now meant to be conducted through the lining of the tent. Trushaun knelt in the little clearing the two girls had found, and shoved her fingers into the dirt.

 

Her veins pulsed as she connected with the earth. Brambles started to grow between the trees- a barrier between them and the carnivores in the darkness. It seemed a slow process, but Trushaun knew it would take just a few moments for the brambles to reach a decent height and density.

 

The Force flowed through the young Fosh woman and into the ground, she felt no shaking in the ground, Trushaun let it be as she felt everything around her. Sandy was her responsibility, in a manner of speaking, she was to protect the girl. But she would also try to protect the beasts from the two Jedi as well. The two would not mix well. Trushaun awaited Sandy's response.

[Sandy Sarna]

The power of the force always took young Sandy Sarna by surprise. In spiraling motions, brambles emerged around the tent and formed a defensive perimeter. Knowing that in case the defensive wall would not hold the Fosh Jedi would need her assistance, Sandy slowly unzipped the flaps of the tent. As the brays of creatures spread out and surrounded the walls of brush Sandy Stood and placed her back against the Fosh’s. Lightsaber in hand, unlit. Like that they stood, until the barks of carnivores slowly faded away. Searching for easier prey.

 

Sandy sighed. “Thank you my friend, I am glad you know such power, I know not much else than combat. You are an amazing Jedi.”

 

Sandy grinned and sat down in a huff. Checking her chronometer she yawned. Only an hour until sunrise. Letting her breath calm. She drew upon the power of the force, refreshing her exhausted muscles and clearing the whisps of sleep from her brain.

[Tobias Vos]

It was a typical Jedi Temple layout, so Vos made his way through the maze of rooms, stairs, hallways and turbolifts to catch up with Dahar and Kirlocca. That bit- where Dahar had simply ordered him to take Xae to the medical wing, and not even to acknowledge the Exorcist was... rude. Waltzing in here like he owned the place- and simply was walking towards one of the more... secure rooms typical of a Temple. Something had changed in Dahar. Vos just wasn't around to determine the change, but on Taris- where he cut down a defeated combatant- and another from behind as he ran? Grinding his teeth, the Kiffar thought further and further into Dahar's actions.

 

The viridian crystal in his chest pocket started to pulse- harder than before. It was trying to tell him something. Stopping in a fairly crowded common room- there it was- eyes. A dozen pair of eyes were on him, something unsettling in the thoughts behind them. Rotating his head to the left- then right- he scanned the room and more eyes started to fall on him. Mostly they were curious- some of them frightened- others aggressive.

 

To walk away, or assert your dominance. Vos's mind was about race. He had no lightsaber- and most of these Jedi were armed. If one rose up against him- the outsider- the others would follow, and he was solo after all... the crew he came with was now dispersed.

 

He'd like to avoid that witch-hunt if he could. Part of him did want to make a show of force- make everyone aware he was not to be messed with, then the other part was to ignore it- move along. A third option- state who you are what you're here for and hopefully be accepted.

 

Or they were curious what was in his bag. A stranger with a Force Signature that they, most likely, had never encountered. A male near-human took a step forward, Vos automatically took a step back, eyes still scanning the room. Everything was quiet now. Then someone called out "You're not from here."

 

Duh. Vos looked around- eyeballing the faces and exits.

 

"You're not Jedi. You're a Sith. You're signature is not of the light..." the male who had stepped forward was engaging Vos.

 

Narrowing in on the leader now, Tobias focused on his mind. "And you have never been off this planet." Vos shot back a fact of the boy's life.

 

"So?" the guy shot back, offended.

 

"You know nothing of how the Force works outside of this temple." There was Vos's chance now- protect himself while in the temple, and defuse the situation. Perhaps even foster some adventurous spirits. Orrrr seal his fate with the insulting fact. But the kid's face showed he was now on the defensive- "You live on a saturated world- here there is no alchemy in the Force. I was born of the alchemy- and there is still more factors to think about. That is why I am here with Jedi Masters Dahar, Kirlocca, and Xae-Lin. With more Jedi going to arrive soon, all have experienced the alchemy. You all will learn something in the next chapter here. Pay attention and learn something of the galaxy." With that Vos took four steps and was past the leader. A slight murmur in the far reaches of the room, the leader of the room was defused.

 

The room was still curious- and now anxious. He had never been a crowd person before, hopefully he had done the right thing. Things were so different than how they used to be. Vos's mind raced like the pod's shown on the holonet- and in all different directions like Courasanti traffic.

 

And way out there in the outskirts of his mind- something familiar was on it's way back to him. But he had to reach that final set of stairs and reach Dahar and Kirlocca.

[Dahar Raikanda]

"When has it ever been any different, Master? When have our enemies not tried to destroy us? But times have changed. Look at the Order. We might be all that's left. And the days of the purists, of the unyielding resolve to the Light Side, the strict aversion to the Dark. Those days are gone. How could either of us assume any leadership role and pretend we haven't seen and done the things we have? I don't know about you, but for me, learning the balance and discipline in the waves of the Force has shaped me into who I am. I spent my life studying under the Jedi and what I learned of the Dark, in just a few months under Master Darkfire, has been just as valuable. To fight our enemy we need to know it, to name it.

 

The Force is quiet now, yes. And that is why this time is so dangerous. The Sith will always be out there. Lurking... plotting. It's not the Dark Side that we need to fear, it's those that can't see past it. To them, to the Sith, it is the only way. That is why they will always cause the imbalance. I think we need to be proactive in seeking and snuffing out the fires that would try to burn this galaxy."

 

There was a refreshing familiarity to the temple as the two journeyed onward towards the council chambers. Dahar had worried that the Order had all but vanished. In truth it was hiding. Without leadership or direction. But that would all change soon.

 

"Master Kirlocca, what I recovered from Gala was none other than the holocron that powered the facility. When I set off the self-destruct all those years ago it refused to come with me. But now, it is ours again. I am certain that, combined with the powers of this temple and the abilities that you and I possess, we can put out a message through the Force so powerful that it could reach the ears of Jedi clear across the galaxy.

 

But what do we want to say? Should the survivors come here? I think we need to regroup...

 

Are you ready to lead?"

[Wookiee Jedi]

Kirlocca stopped and went into a very deep thought. He allowed for the Force to be a nonstop current within his mind. He glanced over and looked directly into Dahar's eyes and then shook his big furry head.

 

<< No. I will not lead. That role is for you. I will support and help back you and give you what you need to start, including my always constant guidance.... But It is not my time to lead. >>

[Adenna Alluyen]

With a weighty sigh, Adenna pulled back the lever that would bring her out of hyperspace and into the Tython system. It was the first time she had been back in several years and she was not quite sure what she would be facing when she landed. During her absence, she had returned to her home planet of Thalassia to assist with its newfound independence from the various slaver gangs that had once controlled it. Most of her work there had been in mediating disagreements between various leaders struggling to build a coalition government. There had been times when she had to lead its fledgling defense force against encroaching gangs hoping to retake the planet.

 

During the last few months, she had felt increasingly discontent and unfulfilled with what she was doing. She had ultimately decided that the Force was calling her back into the Galaxy and she needed to heed its call. To that end, she had taken the small shuttle that had been one of her rewards from the Thalassian Coalition government and headed to find other Jedi. Vague news had reached her ears about a battle and loss at Gala, so she didn't go there. Instead, she went to Tython, a place that she hoped was still intact.

 

As she landed, she was dismayed to feel how few Jedi were on the planet and hoped that it was not due to losses suffered at Gala. It took a minute to run through all the cool down procedures needed to shut down her ship. When she was finished, she sent out a small pulse through the Force announcing her presence to any Jedi in the area and disembarked to head to the entrance.

[Tobias Vos]

Cresting the top of the stairs- he heard Kirlocca and Dahar speaking to one another, but something immediately took his attention. Frozen in place, midstep, his eyes glazed over. A number of feelings rushed over him as well as physical changes. Increased heart rate and blood pressure, as well as another shiver that shook him down to his inner core. The Force was mysterious, no matter which fold of space and time they were in. He would know, Vos was wiser now, his tracking sense had not been relaxed- sharper than ever. Especially here.

 

His head started to throb- he let go of the breath he had been holding. Eyes still fixed off in the distance. He was right. As always, he listened, and the Force had delivered a surprise back to him. Was this his reward? No, this was all part of the plan. What was there to do right now though? Make the trek back to the city, or patiently wait for her to arrive at the temple? Either of them.

 

A deep inhale, and a thousand lines of dialogue sounded off in his head. It was a massive discussion all with different angles and perspectives. Eyes shifting back and forth as if examining the tile work on the floor, Tobias shook his head- shaking away the voices. Zeroing in on the crystal that was in his pocket- trying to pick apart what message it was trying to tell him. Bracing against the railing, he continued onto the floor.

 

It would be better to speak with Dahar and Kirlocca. There was a plan bigger than him and his private interests in the works here. Recalling what he overheard before the two had made a turn and went out of earshot, his feet marched him to the same room the two Jedi Masters were conversing. The duo had stopped just inside the room. Kirlocca, looking at Dahar- some deep conversation had just reached its peak.

 

Vos paused in the door frame. "Xae-Lin is safely away in a bacta tank for a little bit. May I join you two? Your... peers... don't seem to particularly like me." His tone was soft, still unsure if this was where he was supposed to be. His heart still was pounding in his chest, part of him told him to run out to the city- or into the jungle.

[Sandy Sarna]

While sitting on that stony outcropping Sandy could trace the coming and goings of ships from the several mile distant spaceport. Watching one meteoric fall of a ship after the other blaze a path into the sky suddenly she was overwhelmed by a feeling in the force. Like someone had dumped a bucket of water over her head, she was overcome by the familiar warmth of a friend and master she had not seen in many years. She gasped and feel into the arms of the force. She stretched out to the distant presence and lightly acknowledged it. She returned with a feeling of her own presence and dumped warmth and gratitude into the force.

 

Her master was back. Her fears and doubts fled. She turned to her Avian friend.

 

"Trushaun! I can feel her! My master has returned!"

[Trushaun]

The beasts had ventured back into the jungle, and it was now time to make their journey forward once again. While they took a moment Sandy sat on the outcropping of rock and suddenly became excited. And for good reason. The Fosh smiled- today was a good day.

 

Smiling at the girl, Trushaun couldn't be more happy for her. The naturalist held a similar excitement- her own master had come to the planet. Unsure of when exactly- but his presence was unmistakable.

 

"Trushaun's master also returned to Tython. Meet masters at temple, or connect with Sandy's master? Next-t-t move is Sandy's decision."

[Moon Knight]

<< Incoming comm for Kirlocca >>

 

"Kirlocca, this is Fett. While investigating a situation on Hoth we recovered a lightsaber that belonged to a Sith. When Mirdala made contact with the weapon, she triggered a trap of some kind and has suffered some kind of Force-based attack which rendered her catatonic beyond our ability to help her.

 

"We urgently need your help. I have a place where we can meet if you are able to come."

 

<< The line remains open, waiting for a response. >>

[Wookiee Jedi]

Kirlocca stopped almost all movement upon Vos entering the room. While he could feel the man coming through the Force, he didn't need a real acknowledgement of it until now. Dahar was the one who vouched for him, and Dahar will continue to stand by his convictions. Anything less would have made Kirlocca not want him to be Grandmaster. The trip and interaction the Wookiee had with Tobis Vos made him not as trustworthy, as the Jedi Master could feel something within Vos that made Vos and Kirlocca uncomfortable. But it was o no matte by this point. Whatever was there would be dealt with much later, and at Dahar's own doing.

 

<< You may join us. And I thank you for taking care of Xae. >>

 

Kirlocca finished speaking only to have his commlink buzz. He had to approve the comm, a transmission that was only possible due to the huge satellite Kitt Fitt had installed to make communications through the main city even remotely possible. The frequency was instantly recognizable, as was the voice on the other end. Fett had been a Mandalorian who had gotten close to Kirlocca over the years, mainly due to the Augury. Mirdala was also someone through the Augury, although Kirlocca's own interaction with her was much less. After listening, Kirlocca quickly responded out loud, as privacy was already out the door.

 

<< I will leave shortly. Keep a watch on her vitals until I arrive. >>

 

Turning rather quickly to Dahar, he spoke firmly, but left the comm channel open for Fett.

 

<< Contact the other Temples, bring them up to pace on what is going on. The Order is in good hands Grandmaster... >>

 

With that, Kirlocca turned and left the room in a hurry. While Fett spoke no urgency or even hinted at it, the very presence of a comm meant something was up and every second he delayed could spell disaster. He would allow for Fett to send him a meeting point to his comlink, but he would take a JediAce from the hangar, which would require him to fly blind out of the blackout zone.