Trials of the Initiate [open]

[Vilado]

Vilado Lobri walked through the halls of the Jedi Temple garbed in Padawan robes. He traced his hand along the wall sensing his way past anyone who walked his way. Many people assumed the initiate was blind, considering his blindfold and peculiar mannerisms that mimicked blindness. In fact, he was blind. Technically. He possessed no eyes. Yet he saw everything. He constantly saw the world through the Force. He saw the brightness of the Force Nexus under the academy. The auras of nearby Jedi. He was blind, yet he saw much more than most.

Today was a big day for the 5'6 teen. He planned to take the initiate trials to officially declare his readiness for a master. Most did not take on the trials and Vilado had only recently learned of them. He was to study and recite the ancient Jedi Code. Demonstrate his ability with the lightsaber and finally, with the Force.

Vilado walked into the room sensing the presence of Jedi. They were powerful and Vilado assumed they were here to witness his trials. He walked up to the group and bowed.

"There is no Emotion; There is Peace
There is no Ignorance; There is Knowledge
There is no Passion; There is Serenity
There is no Chaos; There is Harmony
There is no Death; There is the Force".

The Jedi nodded in approval and Vilado bowed again before turning towards the sparing area. He took the opportunity to congratulate himself. It was hard for Vilado to memorize anything, he detested classroom learning and tests in general. Now that part one was over he could finally prepare for the duel.

 

[Vilado]

Part two would be more in Vilado's comfort zone. Being naturally strong and experienced with combat Vilado easily picked up lightsaber dueling.

The huge youth strode over to the training sabers. There he grabbed the largest blade and ignited it. This was not a test of his dueling abilities, it was a test of self discipline. Vilado tended to over think and he needed to master that. He needed to show the Jedi his training was acceptable.

Vilado walked up to his opponent. His aura was bright and ready. Vilado raised his blade hilt and prepared. He remembered all of the body zones from basic training and concentrated on them.

The duel began as a bell tolled. His opponent started with a vertical slash which Vilado defended against with a horizontal block. The two traded blows, horizontal to vertical many times. Then his opponent aimed for his right shoulder, Vilado blocked and countered at the left leg. The blade struck home and the boy knelt in pain. Vilado backed off and the other initiate stood, his aura was embarrassed but calm. He bowed to Vilado and left. The second trial had been completed.

 

[Vilado]

The final trial would be the most difficult. Vilado was a cluts, he always had been. Sometimes he misjudged distanced or failed to sense obstacles. Before training it had been a constant annoyance, now that he had refined his connection to the Force his sight had also gotten better. But to try what he was about to try with his reputation seemed like suicide. He was going to perform the Art of Movment obstacle course. He would need to channel the Force greatly to enhance his sight AND speed. He would need to flip and leap and roll. This would indeed be difficult.

Vilado strode over to the training area. He hit a switch and the course began. Moving hoops, rising and falling pillars, and to top it all off: it was timed. Vilado began by meditating. He called the Force to himself and used it to enhance his body. His vision grew clearer and he felt his muscles strengthen.

He ran full speed and leapt through a hoop as he came down he rolled and leapt up to a pillar. As the pillar rose he used the momentum to rocket into the air, he reached for a hoop but misjudged the distance and had to grab with his other hand. He hoped no one noticed but there was no time. He swung through another hoop and leapt off another pillar into the final hoop. The bell dinged and Vilado had to concentrate on the timer to see the numbers. A minute exactly. He was static! Last time he made just under two minutes! He turned to the masters and bowed deeply. Truly, the Force was a great and powerful ally!

Vilado walked from the room back to his quarters. He allowed his vision to return to normal and as he reached his room he saw Turbo chewing on his favorite pillow. His sight allowed him to see through the walls but the hound would never know that. He stormed in and scolded his friend but gave into the excitement and hugged and wrestled the pup. He laughed loudly and once again established that he'd rather be here than anywhere else in the galaxy.

 

[Gaja]

After just having returned from another mission Jedi Padawan Guhoo Armstrong allowed himself some time to heal and rest up. For he had been invited by one of the Masters to observe the trials of an Initiate. Welcoming the opportunity to observe and support a fellow Jedi the blond haired young man gladly accepted the invitation. Sitting alongside distinguished members of the Jedi order wearing a brown padawan outfit and a black bandanna over his head the padawan checked if his gloves were still where they needed to be.

The Initiate that was to perform today appeared soon enough, he was on time. Guhoo narrowed his eyes slightly, picking up on the fact that the teenager was a Miraluka, this would indeed be interesting. Despite being a member of the Jedi Order for almost two decades Guhoo couldn't claim to have seen many of Vilado's kind. Apparently they had a special type of vision, they saw everything through the force.

He admired them, and was even a little jealous of their gift, for he wondered what it was like to perceive everything around you through the force, teh sensation was probably totally different then how he perceived the world and the force around him. Being one of the Order's top padawans the young man paid close attention to the young man that was Vilado, as he recited the Jedi Code. Nodding to his words he saw him pass on to the next trial.

He observed his movement during the second trial, there was power in his swings, yet they lacked finesse and would need refinement. Though he held his own, much like he did during the third trial as well. Sitting patiently Guhoo formed an opinion of his own, though he had little doubt that the young man who was Vilado would soon be regarded as a padawan. Though he still had to hear it from the top brass. Still it was a nice pass of time, he really welcomed the change of scenery, after so many blaster bolts and swords coming at your head you learn to appreciate these moments of peace and relaxation.

 

[Master Maverick]

His time on Tython, to find and center himself, was more than necessary and equally, if not more so, helpful. Tross finally felt himself and had an idea of what his purpose and direction was. At least for the time being.

Returning to Coruscant was quite an occasion for the Vultan. It had been several years since he last set foot on the planet, which was not any different from any of the other Jedi Temples and various other worlds he had been to previously. The city-planet, even for all it's terraformed surface, still held as many people as ever. It was a magnificent sight from up above as the shuttle made it's way to land. However, once upon the surface, everything was simply too big to take in and everything seemed to have lost the interest it had previously. Everything was so plain; obviously all of it was to be seen from a distance and the lack of detail was to save money for the prime real-estate that was the planet. It was simply reality, but Tross saw it all in a new light and with a different perspective and deeper understanding than he had ever before. It was as though this was the first time he saw the planet for the first time and it was almost too much for the Knight.

Knight...

He was shocked that he was given the position and responsibility upon his return from exile. He had truly not expected it. He still wasn't completely sure what to do, but knew that knowledge would come in time and with experience. Tross wasn't want to just stand by and wait for knowledge to come and seek him. He was to go and find it for himself and take all he could from all around him.

Stepping out to the courtyard of the Grand Jedi Temple, he noticed the differences in this building from the one he knew previously. It was not like Tython where everything was familiar yet new as he looked upon it with his new found understanding. This was simply an alien structure and all the death and life that occurred within was almost distracting. While he had learned of the bombing during his time in exile, actually looking upon it was another thing altogether. He slightly wished to have been here to see it destroyed and to help in the reconstruction. To just have a new building atop the old was not something that rested well with the Knight. However, he was pleased that they had decided to spend the time, energy and resources in order to rebuild. It didn't do well for the already staggeringly low morale of the Jedi to leave their greatest monument in ashes.

After looking upon the Temple for several minutes, as Jedi shuffled about their business, he finally decided to make his way at a steady pace towards the Temple. His light robes fluttered as he stepped, his mother's lightsaber revealing itself a few times when a gust of wind might pass.

He mulled around inside the great entryway for several minutes, simply looking around and taking in all that could be with sight and Force. His consciousness stretched out slightly to feel those immediately around him as well as the pulsing of the Force within this place. It was strong, but completely different from what he felt on Tython. That wasn't to be unexpected, but he did take note of it and was curious, if only for a moment, to find the reason for it and why it behaved as such.

Word reached the Vultan of Initiate trials taking place. At first he thought nothing of it. Why would he? He wasn't an initiate. It took him a few moments for the thought to cross his mind of an Apprentice being chosen there could be done. Of course he was hesitant; after the advice given to him by the Sage Master, he wasn't about to go against her wisdom, and clear rationale, and try doing too much too quickly.

However, it would be interesting to observe regardless. With simply the intent of watching the young Jedi, he made his way to the trials.

_______________________________________

There were a number of Initiates there in which to observe and opine on. They all performed well enough; a number of them proving themselves worthy for Apprenticeship. The Masters and other Knights seemed well enough pleased with the performances and even spoke among themselves on their findings on certain ones. Tross, however, kept to himself and kept his eyes on the blind one. He found it interesting that the Masters wanted the Initiates to recite the ancient Jedi Code and not the one that they follow now, but he wasn't about to question their reasonings.

The boy seemed competent enough with a blade, but his performance during the obstacle course was slightly underwhelming, given his stature. However, he quickly reminded himself that looks were far from indicating anything of an individual's traits. He knew that first well better than most. However, he showed promise.

Perhaps... He thought to himself, his mind racing with the possibility. He came to the conclusion that he'd simply speak to the boy. He hadn't interacted with many Jedi upon his return and was more curious about the boy himself than anything else.

However, before he could even make his first move, the boy was gone. His quick eyes caught his back leaving the rooms. He paused for a moment, wondering if he should follow. His legs acting independently of his mind surged him forward and followed the boy as he made his way back to the dormitories of the Temple. Making it through the throngs of people in a place he didn't know was difficult, given that he was trying to follow someone so as to not get lost himself and look all a fool. He caught the glimpse of the boy entering a room. Tross tried to remember the exact room, but it was good distance away and by the time he reached it he had forgotten exactly. Especially given the smaller size of the room and the fact that they were close together. Jedi needed not large spaces in which to sleep and privacy of sound from those around.

Thus, Tross had to resort to eavesdropping and listening to find where the boy had gone. Luckily for him, there was only one noise of consequence coming from a room where a young male seemed to be talking with someone, but no other voice was heard. He knocked on the door after hesitating for a moment, making sure it was the right move. Going through with the action, his fist rapped on the door thrice and he waited for a response.

When the door would open, he'd ask, "Vilado Lobri?" When the name was confirmed, he'd continue to introduce himself. "I am Tross Wilum. I saw your performance during the Initiate trials. You did quite well." His voice was a higher baritone timbre with a smooth touch to it. It might be assumed that many women sought him, or simply found him more attractive, given this trait. He paused, his mind working furiously to come up with the right words. "I was hoping I could speak with you about your future with the Jedi." He didn't wish to sound so formal, but he reverted to his traditional way of speaking; one of nobles and diplomats. How he had learned to speak during his younger days on Vulta.

 

[Vilado]

Vilado heard the knock and through his Sight he saw the Jedi. A strange species, unfamiliar to Vilado. His curiosity almost overrode his fears but he knew he must act with dignity. He assured himself that he would learn what the Jedi was, after he spoke with him.He commanded Turbo to stay then walked to then the door. It opened and the being spoke.

Vilado nodded in agreement to his name and when he praised Vilado on his performance the young Miraluka became embarrassed and took a step back. Vilado was unaccustomed to praise, and the Jedi gave praise often. Many initiates thought Vilado never replied because he thought himself superior. The truth was that the boy felt he didn't deserve it.

When he asked the initiate about his future was the point where Vilado's fear peaked. It didn't make sense he had patted Vilado on the back? Why question his future? Vilado was too old, they planned to reassign him! Maybe this was a scout for a construction company! Vilado was going to be used once again as a sentient fork lift. No. Jedi did not work in construction! He mastered his fears and meekly said "Of course. Come in."

Vilado entered and fixed up his already clean room. His dog laid on the floor sniffing his paws. Turbo worried the youngling. Best friends since an young age the Kath hound had seen him through some tough situations. The Jedi permitted the hound until he was able to find it a home but as much as he tried Vilado could find no safe haven. He knew that would not work for much longer and he feared to relinquish his childhood friend. Attachment was forbidden so Vilado had done as instructed and prepared himself to lose Turbo. He'd just rather not.

Vilado turned and readied himself for the Jedi's words. Hopefully they were good, but Vilado had the worst luck. The Jedi's aura was guarded well and his diplomatic tone did not put the cautious initiate at ease.

 

[Master Maverick]

"Thank you," he replied as he bowed before entering.

The Vultan's eyes shifted about the room, quickly noting the cleaned living space and taking obvious interest in the Kath Hound that the boy kept here. He found it somewhat odd, but it was no more odd than his own team of droids that he treated like organic sentients, just as the boy much have treated his pet. Either way, he certainly didn't judge it. While he was initially hesitant to pet the thing, he went for it anyway. There was no reason to be so stiff and he was sure the canine wasn't disease ridden or anything.

He bent his knees to get at face level with the creature and pet its head, moving to the muzzle. The pooch seemed to enjoy it, urging Tross to do it more. "What is his name?" Tross turned to Vilado for the answer. Once given, he'd look back at the Kath and repeat the name; "Turbo. It's a good name," he determined as he stood and ended the petting of the animal.

Looking at the only chair in the modestly sized room, Tross queried, "May I?" The nervous Initiate would, no doubt, apologize and plead him to sit, which he would. Silently and with little change in face, he'd do so. His right hand draped over the side of the relatively comfortable chair, Turbo rose from his laying position to move over to the Knight. Vilado wouldn't know, but Tross had urged the mutt to come if he wished to continue to be pet. As such, he urgently did so and Tross continued slowly and deliberately petting the Kath.

Looking upon the boy, he noted his physical demeanor; his nervousness was quite clear. While Tross was no empath, he had learned quite a bit on physical communication over the years. "You need not stand, Vilado." There was a curl in his lips and his tone was humored as his left hand rose as his head tilted to suggest that he should sit on his bed for the conversation.

For a few more moments, Tross was silent as he took in what Vilado was saying without words.

"You need not be concerned; I am not here to condemn you of anything. My judgement of your performance was genuine." He was rather matter-of-fact with this statement. He didn't wish to make the boy on edge and he didn't wish for his message to be obscured once more.

"Now that you have passed your trials, I assume you consider yourself ready for a Master and to enter into an Apprenticeship. Your physical trials were well enough done. However, much more important than those is your mental constitution. I would very much like to know; what does the Code of the Ne Order mean to you?" While he wouldn't state so just yet, it could be rather easily assumed that Tross was getting ready to ask if Vilado wanted to be his Apprentice. Either way, Tross would keep that little bit of information to himself and allow Vilado to stew in his anxiety. It would be a good lesson for him.

 

[Vilado]

The code was not interesting to Vilado. It was words, nothing more. Every Jedi knew it but Vilado always had trouble with topics he was not fascinated in. He knew what kind of Jedi that he wanted to be, and wasn't the Code exactly that. A way for Jedi to behave, what use was it to a Jedi who knew what he was?

"Jedi protect peace and knowledge. We defend the weak and innocent and always use our power to serve. We lead by example but never by force. We fight only when forced to and spare all who we can."

Vilado had been sitting on the bed since the master had asked and found it pleasant that the Jedi liked Turbo. He hoped that the code in its entirety was not expected, Vilado had not bothered to remember it. He regreted it very much right now. He would not be caught off guard like this again, he would learn the Code even if it was only useless words.

 

[Master Maverick]

The change, physically, in the Initiate, to Tross, was quite clear; his enjoyment of things having to do with words was minimal at best. Of course he didn't know the reason for this, but he was sure to find out at a later date, given that the young Jedi proved to be a good fit for the recently found Knight.

The corners of his lips curled slightly in some sort of amusement. This carried over into his voice, if only slightly, as he re-worded his question; "What does it mean to you, though? I have no doubt you have a knowledge of what the Code reads, but how you interpret it for yourself, for your own purpose is far more important." He made note that the human did not recite the Code verbatim. Again, he wasn't sure of the reason for this, but would perhaps find out when it was more relevant. Either way, the reason for his pushing this particular question was to find out his own philosophies about what it meant to be a Jedi. This, above all, was most important to the Vultan. His own exile had taught him much, but if nothing else was remembered, it was what it meant to be a Jedi in the first place.

 

[Vilado]

Vilado sensed the amusement and turned his head. The emotion was not easy to detect, but it was still there. He felt his own tension melt off. What did it mean to be Jedi? Vilado knew only one answer. His. He would tell the Jedi who he wanted to be.

"Master in no shape or form do I seek to be rude but physisophical debates of morality are often skewed. Every being sees the world differently, so must every Jedi see his path. As you have asked, the Code is a lens through which every Jedi sees what he wishes. I see gallant defenders of freedom and justice. I see seekers of knowledge and wisdom. I see peaceful protectors of diplomacy. All this I see because all this I wish to be." Vilado was amazing himself, never had he been allowed to speak his mind so. The questions he was being asked forced him to voice his thoughts. The words spilled from his mouth even after he was sure he had answered the question.

" The Code is nothing but words, but behind the words lie the meaning. What does Jedi mean? Some hear peace others hear enemy. If you ask what I "hear" it is compassion. Jedi help whenever they can wherever they can." Vilado had more to say but through his mental constitution he was able to suppress the stream of nonsense.Drawn back to his shell the initiates aura faded back to normal. He sat awaiting a reprimand or a jest.

 

[Master Maverick]

The Knight was excited as the Initiate answered his question. His answer, while almost spiteful in a way, was quite insightful. More so than he had anticipated.

He was more than pleased.

However, Tross was slightly disappointed when he seemed to stop himself, forcefully, from going on. The question, though, had been answered well enough, but he was always up for hearing more of what others thought about various things.

He nodded, a smile indicating he was pleased with Vilado's answer. "I agree with you," he started. He made sure not to state the boy was correct, as Tross was certainly not one to dictate such a thing. "However, be sure not to blind yourself to the infinite various possibilities that you have yet seen and do not even know you are unaware of.

"And the Code is simply words, I agree. This is why I ask for what they mean to you. I care little for the words themselves, personally, for they are easily skewed, as you said. The compassion you see and hear, this is very important. However, as you are already aware, others think differently. You must not condemn them, even if you think them wrong. My advice to you would be; give them the facts and then allow them to come to their own conclusion." His smile deepened slightly as he looked upon the miraluka, slightly interested at his blindness and how he saw. Perhaps the boy could teach him how to see through the Force. Tross held no reservations about learning from one's own Apprentice.

His mind stopped, his eyes lowered and tightened. He was already considering the boy his Apprentice. He didn't really have the time to think and reflect on this at the moment, being before the boy and all it would be rather rude.

"I have a proposition for you, Vilado. Would you consider learning the Ways of the Jedi under myself for a time. For reasons that I will tell you later, I am hesitant to take you on as my formal Apprentice. Even so, I think it better to see how we work together and determine whether or not we are good fits for one another. What do you say?" Tross was somewhat apprehensive of the answer, but his facade was rather calm even as his mind raced and the pace of his heart quickened. It was not in anxiety of the answer, but in the consequences of the events that might occur. He did not believe himself fully ready to take on such responsibility, but as in the past, when faced with such things it pushed him to improve and gave him reason to better himself.

 

[Vilado]

He nodded in agreement with the Jedi the entire time. He felt that sentient should be allowed knowledge, of everything. What they think is their problem. Access to knowledge should always be guarded, this was important to the Miraluka considering his obsession with curiosity. He took some time to ponder the thought of his path changing as he walked it. An interesting thought that he would have to follow later. For now more pressing matters needed to be attended to.

He had been asked to travel with the Jedi. His heart skipped a beat and although he tried to remain calm his mind raced. A padawan.

"Of course, Master. It would be an honor!" Vilado mentally reprimanded himself. Jedi were masters of their emotions in any situation. Although it amused him to think of how the great masters had acted when they had been in his situation. Vilado bowed to the Jedi, but as his excitement died his curiosity rose.

"So I am not your official padawan." The thought put a damper on his happiness but even being asked to be an unofficial padawan would be amazing. "Should we alert the council?" Vilado hoped they would. He wanted to be given his new rank officially, and yet he was wary of it. What if the Jedi disliked Vilado? Would he be demoted? Sent back to initiate classes, or worse, the Jedi Service Corp. He tried very hard to contain his emotions but he was sure the Knight could read him like a book

 

[Master Maverick]

Being called 'Master' was just as weird as he thought it would be. For so many years, he had been the subordinate. Now he was the superior. He wasn't sure how to deal with it, but for now he would just ignore it and take it as it was. The privileged and responsibility to be one's Master was almost a daunting task to the Jedi. He hadn't even taught a class yet. Granted, he had helped a Padawan learn the beginnings of Shien, but that was the extent of his teaching experience.

Wait. Was it really?

Thinking quickly, he remembered his time on Tatooine. He had taught many the intricacies of droids and otherwise mechanics in general. He even had something resembling of a following; young people whom he taught on a fairly regular basis. He had led various campaigns against thugs and gangs, but those were rather small-time events in the grand scheme of things. However, experience was experience and wasn't to be shunned simply because one felt himself unworthy. He had been deemed worthy by one of the wisest members of the Order itself. While urged to take his time and make sure he was ready, he wasn't one of the most patient of individuals. Even so, he was taking his time in getting a feel for the boy first and making sure it would work out. However, it was more to see if Tross himself was even capable and competent enough to do so properly.

He'd certainly try his hardest. He wasn't about to let the boy down because of his own failings. It only pushed him harder to make himself worthy in not only the eyes of the Council, but his own eyes. The latter probably being much more difficult.

His good humor quickly dissipated, however, upon hearing the eagerness for a promotion from his lowly rank. At least, that's what he inferred from his excited acceptance and his depressed realization of what Tross had actually said. "You should not place so much importance upon what you are called within the Order." His light eyebrows lifted in expectation as he paused to allow the statement to settle for a moment. "Your ascension to Padawan will happen when you are ready and worthy for such a thing. Even so, your goal should not be to rise yourself within the ranks, but to become the greatest Jedi you can be. That is the Way of the Jedi." He was almost disappointed in the boy. However, he didn't hold it against the young Jedi. Tross felt similarly when he was chosen and couldn't blame Vilado.

Even now, he was imparting his knowledge and wisdom to the boy. It seemed to come so easily. He wasn't sure where it was coming from, but it was natural, but he didn't have the time, currently, to reflect on this either. This was a new experience for the both of them.

"I will alert the Masters in due time that you are formally my personal student and will send another when I feel ready to take you as my Apprentice." He hoped his message was sent; it wasn't that Vilado wasn't ready, it's that Tross wasn't ready. Either way, he wouldn't say anymore on the subject.

He rose from his seat, Turbo whimpered as he was no longer being pet, looking up longingly at the man. "I would suggest you meditate on all that you have done and learned today. I have a few things to attend to. Meet me in the entryway tomorrow at sunrise." With that, Tross nodded his head to Vilado, turned to look at Turbo and added, "You may bring him along if you wish." Then he turned to leave the room. Pressing the opening mechanism, the door whooshed open and he stepped out. Without looking back, he turned right and made his way down the corridor to make his way to the archives. He wanted to do a bit of reading to help clear his mind before sending the message and meditating on the day's happenings.

 

[Vilado]

Vilado accepted the criticism wholeheartedly and committed the lesson to ponder on. He nodded as he sensed the Jedi lose his humor. This was serious and Vilado had better learn it. The Miraluka also nodded when he had been given his instruction and he was happy when the Jedi had mentioned Turbo. The rowdy hound often had a good sense of people and Vilado had learned to trust it. Watching the Jedi go he regretted not asking for his species and knew it would bother him until he knew.

After Tross left Vilado swept his legs up onto the bed and crossed them. Meditation. The best part of the day. When he could finally become lost in his mind. He could let himself fall into the shifting of the Force and think. He had developed the technique at a young age. His adoptive mother had been an undiscovered Force sensitive and she used meditation to watch the Force for signs of a bad operation. His mother. Erluli. Sometimes when he fell deep into his trance, deeper than he usually went, he thought he could hear her. Singing to him across the galaxy. He usually chalked it up to his imagination, bit he relished the times when the singing graced his mind.

He had alot to ponder as he watched the Force ebb and flow around him. He remembered visualizing his path as a Jedi. He wanted to be a defender of the weak, a guardian of peace and knowledge. That was the thing. CURRENTLY he wanted those things, but he was fifteen years old. He had alot of growing to do, both mentally and physically. How could he possibly know his path's end from the beginning. He decided that he would use his wants as a guide, a compass to lead him. When his desires changed so would his direction. He would heed his teacher and not lock himself onto a destination, instead he would enjoy the journey.

He could not tell how much time had passed in just that one train of thought, his mind was a great pool and Vilado became lost in it. The Force flowed freely within him and his sight became so greatly enhanced that he could see Jedi walking outside the temple. Like tiny beacons of light they walked here and there. Some in pair or groups, others alone. He loved when he could see like this. Only after recently mastering himself and touching the Force for the first time was he able to perform the feat. He remembered how difficult life had been. How being big and partially blind had been such a burden. He used to fall and trip everywhere, knock over things he was reaching for and even ,on occasion, misplace objects. He might as well of been blind.

He used to tap the Force to provide him some measure of visibility, but it was like a leak in a dam. So little could he channel that his sight was dark and constantly shifting. Now the dam had broken and he could channel a great deal more. He no longer tripped but he was still a cluts. He hoped as his training progressed and he was better able to channel the Force that his sight would improve to the ability of a normal human at all times. Of course he could MAKE his sense-sight better when he chose, but it was a drain. He wanted to constantly channel enough without trying. He would only get better with practice.

He suspected it was well into the night considering how many Jedi he could see. Not nearly as many as before so he focused his sense onto the nearby. When zoomed out he could only see active beings, zoomed in he could sense alot more. Even to the point of focusing on an untrained sentient target and hearing their thoughts. Vilado would never do such a thing though and he only knew he could do it because of Turbo. It was a gross invasion of privacy, but a sneak at their auras was not so bad. He could sense the Jedi in the rooms beside him were docile, peaceful. They were indeed sleeping. Vilado almost never slept. Meditation provided the rest he needed while simultaneously letting him be conscious. Only on the rare occasion of training himself ragged had he been too tired to meditate.

It was nearing the dawn hours as Vilado's mind wandered to his reprimand. Padawan was just a rank, but that rank ensured he was to become a Jedi. It was not wrong to put emphasis on rank, or was it? Vilado had read of ancient apprentices doing great and terrible things. He remembered hearing of the tragedy of Anikan Skywalker. He single handedly slaughtered countless Jedi as a Knight and ruled the galaxy alongside his master as a Sith apprentice. Rank obviously held no great sway over him, except to bait his fall. His instructor told him that Skywalker wanted to be made a Jedi Master and the denial of his promotion had been a contributing factor to his hate of the Council and thus, his fall. Only the arrogant cared of rank, only the vain. They wanted to have titles to throw around and awe at the power that the position had. Vilado would not fall. He cared not what others thought and whether he was a Jedi Initiate or a Jedi Master he would do his best. Just as Tross had told him.

As the thought came to a conclusion he noticed Turbo shifting in his sleep. Vilado focused his enhanced Sight onto the dog and heard his thoughts. Chase, belly scratches, treats, running, playing. The dog had a simple mind but Vilado appreciated his simplicity. He never judged nor jested. He simply cared for Vilado, regardless of his faults.

Many Jedi had begun to rise as Vilado zoomed back out. He assumed the sun was going to rise so he pulled his mind out of the great lake in his mind and he felt the Force recede. Only a trickle of what he had been channeling was flowing into him. His sight shrank to its normal, sub par, state. He stood up and almost fell as he had failed to notice that Turbo had changed spots. He caught himself in time to avoid anything drastic but he had awakened the great beast. Turbo no doubt wanted to be let out and to eat some breakfast, coincidentally the teenager wanted the same thing.

After freshening up and grabbing some food he sped to the entryway with Turbo in tow. He often sensed curiosity at the dog and Vilado always let the young ones play with him but he could sense the disapproval of the masters as well. Soon he could get Turbo out of the temple, at least for a while.

Once he arrived he asked a passing youngling if the sun had risen yet and the boy replied as if Vilado had been teasing. He let Vilado know after some prodding that it was minutes from sun break. He could usually tell by the sun on his face if it was out, but he wanted to be sure.

The Miraluka sat down against the wall and scratched the hound behind his ears. He was excited to meet with Jedi Tross but he kept his excitement concealed both on his face and in his aura. He needed to seem professional, he wanted to make a good impression.

 

[Master Maverick]

It proved to be a long night for the both of them. Vilado kept himself busy, much as Tross did reading various articles, histories and philosophies in the archives. Of course he teased himself with some schematics and blueprints of various technologies, but those were breaks and he went back to the important topics soon enough. He always enjoyed reading and learning, but even so, it seemed so empty to his learning on Tython. He couldn't possibly understand why anyone would want to be cooped up in here all day every day reading everything the Order had to offer.

His mind quickly ended such a thought and altered it to approval, yet he simply knew it wasn't for him. Either way, he needed to get caught up and get a few refreshers on some topics before heading out with his new student.

After several hours of reading, and finally getting his mind back on the sentient who was now in his charge, he put down the datapads and holoprojectors and meditated in his seat. His head dipped his head and closed his eyes and allowed all thoughts and feelings to leave upon the waves of the Force. It took several minutes, as he was a bit out of practice, but once he was there, he reveled in it. After about an hour of resting his mind and body, he allowed the events of the day to enter his mind. He scrutinized them now in a way that was impossible earlier.

Overall, he was hesitant about much of what he had done. Unsure. He was full of doubt. And not doubt of anything or anyone but himself. He believed himself unready and unprepared for such a responsibility. He wouldn't disregard this feeling, but rather took note of it and allowed the doubt to leave him. Such decaying and detrimental thoughts had no place within his mind. Caution was to be employed, but not in such a way as to impede on his tasks and responsibilities. He needed to become more sure of himself. Tross knew it would take time, and he was insightful enough to realize this and, thus, not rush or push anything and allow himself to grow into his knew role.

Through the night, he meditated and became lost within the Force. His consciousness traveled far from his body, out to the courtyard outside and the endless city beyond. Not too far, of course, but he worked on his perception and range of sense, making sure he could still perform as his level required and was expected. However, then the thought of expectations of others entered his mind and caused his 'sight' to diminish greatly. He realized he was almost to be hypocritical; doing the opposite of what he had told his student. He had no requirements to perform in any particular way. He had been granted the rank he had been granted regardless of his skill. Either way, it was not skill the made a Knight, but their wisdom, knowledge and experience. A balanced individual was far more important to the Order than a strong, volatile one.

A soft alarm sounded an hour before the star would rise in the sky of Coruscant. He awoke with little trouble, organized the items before him for easier clean up by the librarians, which took a few minutes, before proceeding to find something for breakfast. He ate a small meal and gulped down a glass of water before making his way to the grand entryway of the Temple on Coruscant. Before meeting with his student, however, he stopped by a module and looked at various tasks that were open and available to be taken by any with the time to do so. A rather small-time mission was available and he signed himself up for that. Taking the small infochip, he inserted it into the wrist guard. The burns on his hand and forearm were ignored, though he did eye them for but a moment before putting his hand back down by his side.

Finally at the entrance of the Temple, his head swiveled to scan for the boy. There weren't too many Jedi up and about at this hour, but it still took several moments for Tross to find the Miraluka against a far wall. The Kath Hound was the creature that gave away his location, though. Such a sight was not so common and a dead giveaway to the young Jedi's presence.

Concentrating on his aura, he attempted to make it flash slightly, so as to catch the attention of the blind Jedi. He knew waving wasn't really all that noticeable. However, due to this flash, the wounds of his past were amplified equally. The taint that still resided within his being showed itself, if only for a moment. It was under well enough control, but the fact remained; he had been touched deeply by the Dark Side of the Force. If Vilado noticed at all, it would certainly make for interesting conversation. Though, Tross hoped to keep his past more his own for a longer time, but he surely wouldn't shy away from the line of questioning should it arise.

"How was your evening, Vilado?" His raised voice echoed off the high ceilings and towering columns, carrying his voice much farther than he intended. He almost flinched at the volume, but kept himself composed for the most part. The cover of his excitement was noticeable to the Vultan only because he remembered his first mission with his Master. Even so, his knowledge of body language was rather deep. Regardless, all he could do was smile. He was glad the boy was excited to further his education and training and start down the path of the Jedi.

After exchanging pleasantries, he revealed to Vilado their plans for the day. "There has been a robbery in the Feral City of a rather large shipment of droid and ship parts. We've been tasked with finding the thieves and the contraband. Feel up for it?" The question was largely rhetorical for they were going to go regardless. It was more for the respect of not just telling the boy what they were going to do and making him feel as though he had no choice.

 

[Vilado]

Vilado's head snapped up as he sensed a Jedi's aura grow. The aura quickly flashed with the nauseating hue of the Dark Side. Quickly fading back to the familiar aura of Tross. Vilado filed away the information away for later. Now all he cared about was his unofficial Jedi Master. The strength of the Jedi's voice made Vilado and Turbo jump. He quickly hardened him self and rose to his feet. Turbo also stood and the Miralukan teen waited for the Jedi to come closer before he replied.

"I meditated upon much. I learned much and I rested well."

Vilado smiled as his Master asked him if he was ready to embark on a mission. If Vilado was ready to take his first steps as a Jedi. He could no longer contain the happiness and let the emotion go. Hunting robbers with a Jedi Knight seemed like a dream come true.

"Of course, Master." He added emphasis onto the last word. They may not be official partners yet but he would give the Jedi the respect he deserved.

And so it was that Vilado Lobri, initiate of the Jedi Order, embarked upon his first mission. Sure to be full of adventure and excitement the pair walked off into the sunrise, flanked by Turbo the Kath hound, ready to face whatever challenges the world could throw at them....