A Moment, please.

[Bruce Guleya]

Theme
Tython Jedi Academy

Bruce had been with Master Shai only a few moments ago when they were in bound to the Jedi Academy from the Temple after a High Council session. They had received words that Master Zeerda had encountered some unauthorized individuals on Tython; though (thankfully) nothing was required of Master Guleya or Master Shai in regards to the opposition. With the situation concluded, Bruce had asked Vollen to take him directly to the Academy instead of back to the Temple; Bruce had a few things to tend to within the Academy walls.


Vollen dropped Bruce off at the landing pad and went about his day while Bruce headed inside the Academy. As he looked around he took a moment to admire the work of all the students as they carried out their training. It was nice to see some peace in the Order, even though they were not truly at peace - but here people could relax. Bruce carried on with his day, checking in with different departments; the day to day operations were simply flowing correctly. Bruce decided to take the time he was granted to relax and meditate.


Bruce had made his way toward an meditation garden kept within the walls of the academy, reserved for Jedi Masters and Knights alike. There he settled in, and began to center himself. He sat in the middle of the room, surrounded by flora teeming with life and a soft trickle of a fountain, a perfect setting. Now Bruce could have taken up a spot in one of the quarters reserved for visiting Masters, but instead he liked the open and airy nature of being outside.


But these days, Bruce Guleya wasn't someone who could hide within the temples and academy's of the Jedi Order. As the newly appointed Caretaker of First Knowledge, his visits to the temples didn't go unnoticed by the Order; even though his appointment happened just a short time ago. Because of this, the Jedi Councillor would soon be interrupted.


At this point in time, Bruce knew about Aliyah Phoenix, being that he sat on her Trial of Mastery. He was also aware of her involvement in the recent encounter just outside the Academy as Fennex had also notified Vollen and Bruce of Aliyah's presence during his encounter with Loa and Silas. Bruce didn't think this would happen so soon, but it would. He wanted to speak with Phoenix after her Trial but he had to tend do other things and he was gearing up to talk with her some time soon - but the minor incident on which the Temple Guards took custody of Aliyah's sister - mere moments ago - was going to expedite that conversation.


As Bruce meditated he heard the voice of a Temple Guard announce their arrival and that they had Aliyah with them. Bruce hadn't asked for them to bring her and he wasn't looking at giving her any trouble - but apparently the guards thought it was best to deliver her to a councillor.


While meditating, Bruce was slightly levitating off the ground, just a few inches. Without breaking his meditation he acknowledged the guards and asked them to leave the two alone. Aliyah wasn't exactly in trouble so she didn't need a guard escort. She was a Jedi Knight after all, she'd earned the privilege to walk these halls freely; and Bruce had no intention of reprimanding the young Knight; it had been suggested he share a conversation with the Knight.


“Come in Aliyah,” Bruce made the conscious decision to call her by her name. There was no need for such titles, for this was an informal meeting and discussion. “Please have a seat. It's a pleasure to sense your presence within the Force.”


The bardottan was relaxed. “How are you today? As the day been kind to you?” Bruce would have smiled had he not had his eyes closed and maintaining his state. Though as a Jedi he was certainly aware of his surroundings.

Spoiler: OOC

As expected this is a social thread. Death/Capture disabled, no time limit imposed on posts.


This is an ASK thread between Aliyah and Bruce Guleya.

@Autumn's Firefly

 

[Aliyah Phoenix]

And so she was the one being escorted by guards. Wasn't a very kind thought, but they where only doing their jobs. Whatever issues she had with their orders came from the one who had command over them. That wasn't the Jedi she was going to see. Part of her had hoped it would be Fennex, she needed to talk to him anyways, but wasn't surprised that it was Master Guleya. Vollen had recommended him as somebody she could talk to that would understand what she was trying to say.

She was still a little skeptical. For some reason, life was very confusing right now, and way too much had changed too fast. She didn't really know she should trust at the moment, her own judgement seemed impaired so she couldn't really trust herself. At least, that must be the situation, the other Jedi would not behave this way otherwise. She hoped, at least. Her right lekku raised in greeting. "Hello Master Guleya. It's good to feel you're well." Aliyah meant it. Doubts or not, he was alive and she knew he was helping people. The Galaxy was better off with people like him in it.

"Life has become complicated, Master. To put it... simply. I believed I was prepared for this. I wasn't." She hadn't been ready for any of it. Dad's death was something she thought she could accept. Marion's son, who Aliyah promised to protect, died a week later. She didn't expect that much pain. Lucian was a saving grace, the two of them managed to crack her adoptive sister's exterior. Aliyah believed that Kathry's circumstances had led her down a dark path, and she was at a crossroads. Being escorted off by armed guards was most likely not to help whatsoever. But what did she know? "Am I supposed to feel like this?"

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

Bruce kept the Force alive. It flowed around him and through him, and when Aliyah entered to room - he made sure the include her in the soft embrace of the Light Side of the Force. It's intention, to let her know he was there - even though she clearly could see him.


“Aliyah, please. Just call me Bruce right now. There's no need for titles on a situation like this, you're not in trouble. I'm sorry the guards have walked you here - truly I don't know why. I didn't ask them.” Bruce sighed softly, he was kind of upset at the whole scene - it was unnecessary and the young Knight would know that it did bother the bardottan.


“To feel the way you do - it is not wrong.” The master spoke softly, his tone of voice ever calm and others would say, soothing. “You're life has not been an easy one, and so few are prepared to admit to that feeling.” The bardottan opened his eyes and returned to the ground, he quickly turned himself so he could get a good look at the young lady who had joined him.


It bothered Bruce, to see someone like Aliyah struggle. He could sense the confusion, the sense of defeat, the sadness with everything that had transpired. “You've suffered a great number of losses, so I have been told. Losses that had happened so quickly, it's not right or fair. So I do understand why you're feeling that way.” Bruce motioned to the twi'lek to come and sit with him. “I'm sorry, I don't know the particulars of all of your losses - I've just heard you've had a fair share and those weigh heavily on you. I can feel that much.” Bruce offered the woman and comforting smile, a smile that was genuine and not some falsified expression, he was truly there for her.


“As I have said, feeling this way is a natural expression. Do not feel ashamed, and there's no reason to hide it. Feeling this way means you're an individual - a lady with her own wishes, wants, desires. It's what makes you strong. It is what makes you, you.” His expression was soft, he held his gaze on the twi'lek knight. His yellow eyes soft as they locked with Aliyah's eyes, if she would allow it.


“I do feel with you. I do not change my stance, the galaxy and the Order is lesser without those you have lost. I remember when Eivor was slain. I was friends with her and felt her across the galaxy. I miss her dearly.” Bruce hung his head after the last statement, Eivor had proven the doubters wrong and she was a good example of what a Force user could become. An example that even an Exile, one who had fallen could return to the Light. Though she lacked patience is the early days, she was shaping up to the next level.


After a moment of silence past, a silent prayer for the fallen - not just for Eivor but all that Aliyah grieved - Bruce looked up and back to his guest. “It is not my place, for it is your own personal life, but Aliyah, please - tell me about them and what seems to trouble you most. For, in this room it is just you and me; and what we say is reserved for you and me. This is an Oath I make, to you.”


Bruce paused, he wasn't going to rush the girl and he wasn't going to pressure her either. Not once did his voice or attitude shift, outside the grief for the fallen. Bruce wasn't a monster, he wasn't soulless. Aliyah would also know the bardottan wasn't acting, he truly did want understanding; he truly did want to listen to her. To prove this his attention was focused on her, he leaned forward and presented a more open posture the best he could as he sat there.


“Help me understand you and what's going through your head, Ali."

@Autumn's Firefly

 

[Aliyah Phoenix]

It felt warm in the room. A strange, welcoming warmth that she hadn't felt used in a long time. Some Jedi emanated this kind of aura all the time, others had different feelings about them, but this was like being wrapped in the Force itself. The blanket that smothered her mood and made her feel very numb lifted a little bit, and she seemed to calm down. Looking back on her week, Aliyah realized that she's spent it going from one stage of stressed to another. It seemed this was a place she could relax. "I understand, Bruce. Somehow, it weighs on me that I am, even though I know I'm not." She knew it was because she felt like she had done something wrong, even though she didn't know where she'd gone wrong. She did know why the guards escorted her, though she didn't feel like bringing it up. She may not be as powerful as their Knight Commanders, but any Jedi can sense intent from another. But still, subject for another time, she wasn't really in any place to be bringing that up. She let him talk for a while, his voice was soothing, and she didn't really have much to say yet.

It was pretty obvious that Master Guleya was used to giving advice. Like usual these days, she started drawing similarities between him and Venatus. Or him and Percival. All three where similar, they had the same warm presence and understanding. Like they knew what to say to put you at ease. She sat down when he offered her a seat, nodding gently in agreement as he talked. Most of the Order at this point understood she wasn't doing the greatest, and that was a blessing and a curse. It was hard explaining to Jedi was it was like to feel this much loss, most of them didn't understand, or handled it better than she did. She looked up and met his eyes, and vaguely returned the smile. Sadness was part of this, but it was more an overwhelming feeling of having no idea what to do. She understood what this loss felt like, even that it was a natural part of life, those that where gone where now one with the Force. But their lack of presence, the amount of milestones the fallen missed, the amount of things they could have done. Her eyes grew darker as he mentioned Eivor. She'd never really known her, but she would've liked to, Jace seemed to be good friends with her.

The silence passed slowly for her. This was the first time she'd actually ever lost someone, but instead she lost a group of people at once. Individually, she hoped she would be handling it better, but one moment she felt like she'd come to terms with it and the next it was a giant void where those people used to be. She nodded her understanding that it was between the two of them. She didn't have any reason not to trust him, and she didn't expect any Jedi to act like a monster. Aliyah thought she knew what to say, but still making the words coherent without rambling was... interesting. "When I was traveling with Venatus, I guess at some point he decided I needed a parental figure. This was before he joined the Order, but we still talked about the attachment and how it could be a danger to us both. I thought I was ready for when he would die, and I thought I was handling it well. Jace wasn't easy either, I'd only just met him but we were close. Evee... I wish I'd known better... but this feeling isn't like what I expected. I can come to terms with it and it still hurts anyways.

For all they did for others, for the amount they wanted to do, for the plans that will never happen now. My dad wasn’t only the first person beyond the Order to accept me, he was also my hero. He was the one to show me how things should be done, and why they should be done. Always providing moral and meaning, not just showing but explaining. I had finally made a move to strike out on my own and was just beginning to see what adult life and freedom meant. But now, without him, I feel lost. I felt his death through the Force, but he wasn't in pain or desperate. He was at peace. I try to do what he would do, to be the person he wanted me to be, and for some reason I keep messing up. I felt Jace's death through the Force, he was desperate, his was sudden. He's the kind of what if that won't let me sleep. I couldn't feel Eivee through the Force, but I watched the footage of her death." Her eyes closed. "It was horrific. All of them where, it was a slaughter. They didn't deserve an end like that, One with the Force or not.

And here I am, trying to do what I feel is the right thing to do, and everyone treats my actions like they're wrong. Marion's son was electrocuted to death, I felt that through our Force bond. I promised to protect him, and I did a really great job there.
I thought I could help Kathry understand that she wasn't a monster. She was raised to be one, the Dark Side is all she knows, obviously she's fallen to it. And I think I succeeded actually. Figured if I gave her as much trust as Dad gave me, she would get better, and she is. I have no idea what she'll do now, though, she doesn't seem to like very many other Jedi. Only Lucian... even though he cut her legs off...

I worry for her, I worry that she's going to get herself killed trying to avenge the family that adopted me. I worry for myself, because I can tell this fighting is making me numb. Cold. I've seen what battle and loss can do to people... I don't want to become like that... I don't want to lose the empathy that makes me... me."

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

The Jedi Master listened to the Knight closely as she explained what was going on with her. The bardottan listened to her with great interest, and with each sentence he was starting to get a picture of what was happening. The girl was facing some hard times and needed help to understand what was happening; and she wasn't in the wrong to feel that way and to feel lost. It reminded Bruce of something Austin had said during his Trial, the Jedi needed more exposure to feeling deaths of close ones, because it was no doubt that if Aliyah was feeling this way, she wasn't alone. He almost thought he should apologize for what he knew would be a long answer - but before he began all he said was, “Thank you, Aliyah.” Bruce took another moment of peace to himself before he responded.


“Venatrus was a father to you. A connection was made and those connections are not easily ignored. Upon his death, you were upset - which is appropriate. To feel it, it means that he meant something to you. Both your father and Jace.” Bruce continued to watch the Knight, “No one will ever ask you to forget them. It is their memory that sticks with us, as long as you hold their memory they will always be with you - even when the world seems dark.”


He took another moment to gather his thoughts, the twi'lek had given him an insight into her own life - and she'd given a lot for him to digest and he was working through it. There was a lot to cover and a lot of points to acknowledge, but that was the bardottan - he wanted to ensure he didn't leave anything out. Part was his own confirmation and understanding. It was important to him.


“Aliyah, there is nothing to say that their wishes and plans can't get done. But, I also want to tell you that you shouldn't feel responsible either, and you need not take the burden of seeing their plans through. For, those goals and desires belong to another and you can help but you need not endure their completion either, not by yourself.” Bruce shifted his weight, he was leaning forward now, “Role models, heros, those are good things - they give us something to look to, to aspire to be and it is important we have them because they can truly help shape each and everyone of us. We are never alone.”


The bardottan master sort of froze a moment as he appeared to be dwelling on something, Aliyah had said something that seemed to catch him, but he wasn't being negative with the connection - nor was he overly concerned but he wanted to address it. “Aliyah, you've said something to me that got my attention.” The bardottan said thoughtfully. “You had said you are trying to be like him, to be the person he wanted you to be. This statement catches my attention and I think this is where some of your weight comes from. For, you're trying to be someone else - not yourself. You put the pressure of not being what someone else dictates. This can cause a moment of loss.” He knew what he said probably wasn't making sense, he needed to correct himself. “I'm not saying that you shouldn't aspire to be what others saw in you, but it's important you find your own way. To be the woman you want or need to be. Though your father guides you, it is up to to develop in your own right. Though, it won't solve all of your problems, when you remove yourself from that expectation you shall see.” the master laughed at himself a little as he realized something he missed, “I know, I'm telling you not to be what someone else wants - you may ask yourself what about the Jedi? - the Jedi have laid a foundation, a code, a mantra, and have set a way of life. We ask you to not necessarily conform to what we want, but we ask you to use the tools as a guide - to help your process.”


“I recall, you recited the code to me back in the council chambers. You know the code, but I want you to really think about it. Your answers were not wrong, but they weren't right either. But, you're on the right path, rest assured.” he had hoped what he had said would add a layer of comfort for the young twi'lek. A boost in confidence hopefully? He wasn't lying. As Master Shivaaga had said something similar on the conclusion of the trial she had faced.


Bruce knew he had talked a lot by now - but there was still more to cover. Although, he knew he probably wouldn't be able to address everything, but by the Force he had to address more things to help the young girl. He also knew, that overall he would have to take more time going forward to provide complete guidance. This wasn't something he took lightly, he wanted to help.


“I'm sorry if I've been talking too much, Ali. But, I want to help and there's much that has happened. As I said before, you shouldn't have to bare this alone. I've got a few things I'd like to address - based off of what you've told me. So I ask some more time with you, right here. Close your eyes and slow your breathing. I want you to to feel the energies of this temple and the Nexus on which it's bilt, while I continue to talk. I will join you.”


Bruce inhaled deeply before exhaling slowly. Entering this state was not difficult for him. As he found peace, there would certainly be a chance for Aliyah to feel it as she tried to meditate with him, he may even make it a little easier for the pink lady who'd joined him. “Your father was at peace, a peace you can achieve. Your father had accepted the outcome before it happened. Take with you, the peace he felt. Remember that peace you felt, an grasp it. Remember the feeling you had when you joined me here, and grasp it.” The Caretaker's voice would slowly become slightly disembodied and echo quietly as meditation came together, this was the result of almost speaking telepathically. “Now, with that peace, push it with your close friend, Jace. I met Jace here on Tython during our attempts to cleanse this very temple… but alas, I didn't know him and I wish I could have. Unfortunately, many who've lost their lives, lost them too soon. It is our duty to remember them in all of their rights. For we shall always remember who they were and we seize all the good memories, they will always be with you. Right when you need them, but you must open yourself to receive them, through the Force. Remember those times, and you'll feel their warm embrace. Honour them, by being you.”


With another breath, the master arrived at his final portion, a portion he hated to address because he didn't think he could put this in a good light. “Unfortunately, people will always judge your actions for they are not fully aware of the circumstances in which the actions were made. People as observers will often take what they want from it. Don't fret, for you know the decisions you make and how you arrived at that decision - even myself have had decisions questioned.


“Kathry is not a monster. You are right. The Dark Side corrupts and twists as you already know; redemption is always an option. Sadly, the deeper you go down that path - the harder it becomes to see reason. I would suggest you never give up - but don't make it priority. Seize opportunities, but don't go out of your way if you have the doubts. Doubts will betray you and will complicate things further - damaging to you and Kathry. Have you been successful? I cannot know for certain. Worrying, Ali, worrying is good. She is family, by blood or not it doesn't matter. The bonds are there, and to be concerned is natural but I say, you cannot control other actions and that is one of the hardest things to accept. To be a Jedi means freedom, to be a Sith means servitude and being a slave to the corruption. You can guide but you cannot control, if she cannot see this on her own, you cannot make her see it. In this case, you may have to grant her peace or leave her be. I do not truly know what must be done, I'm sorry. You'll have to make that decision should the time come - but I hope it does not.”


“Please don't misunderstand me, I'm not telling you to go about slaying everyone who refuses to be a Jedi and turn from the Sith. Doing that makes you no better than them. Sometimes, and more importantly you will need to walk away… and that'll be the hardest thing to do.” Bruce Guleya, Jedi Master finished speaking finally. A long, drawn out lecture, he hated to lecture but there was too much here that he wanted to address. He came out of his short meditation, because he needed to say one thing, something he should have sent a long time ago and maybe was everything - or the only thing he needed to say…


“Ali. Aliyah. Phoenix.” He wasn't sure exactly what call her, “I think you're okay. I understand how you're feeling about this numbness, and I suggest you remove yourself from the fight. Teach here at the academy or serve in a support capacity at the temple? Something not related to the fight. Meditation. Relax - the best you can. I know. Easier said than done, and we can never truly rest.” he took a pause, “Perhaps - we can do something for you. I don't know what you think of me, or what I've said thus far… but I would like to speak with you again. I would like you to come to me, you don't need to be alone and I'm available to talk about stuff or answer questions you may have, we can work together if you'd like. I want you to know you're not alone.” He offered her a friendly and caring smile as he concluded.


“Now. I'm open. I know there's much, please feel free."

@Autumn's Firefly

 

[Aliyah Phoenix]

Maybe Master Guleya... Bruce, was just a very open person, but she didn't feel any judgement from him, and that was a nice change. She didn't speak much as she listened to him talk, giggling a little when he mispronounced Venatus' name as Venatrus. She'd laughed almost as hard when more than half the Order was doing it, and in a way it confirmed what Bruce and Lucian had said. Aliyah knew that they lived on inside her, in their memories, and in what they where trying to do. Letting all that information out at once had a very calming effect, but the numbness didn't leave. It was still there, but that was a natural thing, so she wasn't worried. The conversation turned to heroes and how they can be good for you, and that she shouldn't shoulder all the responsibilities of the ones they'd lost. He's right. I really shouldn't, it's driving me crazy. Half laughing, she shook her head and continued to listen, letting the Master finish his thoughts. When he commented about her trying to be like somebody else, Aliyah blanked slightly too. Her face gently looked neutral for a second, before something seemed to click, and she understood. Something she'd always been noticing, but more recently in the Trials and since Dad's death... she was acting like him. Aliyah was even talking like him sometimes, she'd picked up his habit of being reclusive. That needed to stop, or at least be toned down. "I know they're still here with us, it's just taking me time to realize they've passed on. I have been acting like Venatus a lot lately, but somehow I don't think he'd approve of half of it. Not at all. I guess I was just doubting myself too, but, I think we've had enough of that.

Honestly, Master, I hadn't really considered the philosophical meaning of the Code before that day. I just did my best to follow it, through the way I'd interpreted it." She paused, closing her eyes like she was asked, and felt nothing at all. Or maybe, everything around her, so much that she couldn't really tell the differences. She could feel this warm energy around her, and through it Aliyah felt like she could see everything around her. In a way, at least. As Master Guleya started talking in her mind, she physically inhaled and exhaled. And then, she wasn't physical anymore, she was somewhere completely different. Peaceful. Nights learning how to play a lute or 8-String. Asking a wookie to punch through a wall so Aliyah and Jace could help the other slaves escape. The celebration on Tython, everyone together. These where nice thoughts, and this place felt welcoming. She replied through her thoughts, being surprisingly deep in meditation. I understand that I'm doing the right thing. I just don't like stepping on toes. Aliyah stopped again and listened to him. Everyone had recommended she speak to a Master, and apparently she'd done good. Wisdom, something she'd imagine Austin saying, was pouring into her mind while she was in this amazing state of peace. Aliyah is okay, Ali is if we're about to die or something and you need to shorten. Phoenix is... well it's still weird to go by that name now. I'm prepared to walk away if I have to, I know I am. I'm definitely open to meditating more, because this helps, but I can't walk away from the fight. Especially not right now. I don't mean I go looking for fights or anything, but if someone is in danger and I can help... I hope you understand what I mean. Working together would be nice.

Aliyah paused, and smiled in return. She moved her head slightly, even though she was meditating, towards a sound. It lasted a second. Off topic slightly, but I'd still like to ask. I was stopped earlier with Kathry, I understand why now mind you. But I don't understand why we've basically arrested Silas. He was here before for the funeral, and that was open to everyone that knew the deceased. I recognized him and said his name, nobody blinked an eye. But suddenly we have two Knights and a Master out there looking for them? Was it the Kyber? Sorry.

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

Bruce monitored the young Knight before him as she adjusted and allowed her body to become a vessel of the Force. Her ability to bring herself to a state of meditation was exactly what the Caretaker wanted her to feel, to experience. He never doubted her connection as a Jedi, but he knew this was a lost thing - not just for her, but the Order as a whole as they pushed deeper and deeper into conflict. Being able to bring people back to their roots, that was what gave Bruce the biggest satisfaction. He could feel her peace as he felt his own; it was this shared experience that seemed to make things, the conversation flow a little more fluid. He could tell, Aliyah was experiencing something she hadn't in sometime. Though he obviously didn't know exactly what was going on in her head, he suspected she was reliving the memories as he had suggested to her.

Reflection.

"I do understand, Aliyah." Bruce replied calmly, "But, understand it is not only your fight. It is our fight. We fight together. I feel your reasoning for the fight, it is why we all do it. I do not suggest you forsaken that nor am I suggesting you go looking for a fight. If someone is in need, it becomes our duty to ensure a favorable outcome. For we are a sword and a shield for the galaxy. For even when this shield and this sword was chipped, it never ceased. While some retreated to mend the armor, the sword continued to strike true, just as the sword was pulled back, the walls protected until they could return. The duty to the galaxy is a duty we all share, we are all equally responsible in one form or another. If it is not you who may help, it is your brothers and sisters who will address it as they expect you to do in their steed."

The bardottan dug deep into his memory as he called on some of the darker memories and darker entries within the Order. "I do not say walk away permanently, but I think it is best you take just a break. Just a time out, allow yourself the ability to properly process all that is happened within you. For a clouded mind results in clouded judgement that can often prove fatal; be it death or worse... capture." It maybe be an odd statement to hear, why would being captured be worse then death? For a Jedi the code provided guidance and solace from death; capture often had very striking and damaging effects, long lasting often - at least that's what Bruce concluded. "The fight will be there, ready for you and while you step back for a period - we will ensure that we continue to prevent extensive harm to the galaxy until you're ready to join us. When you join us, no doubt others will fall back and reflect. A cycle repeated, but not detrimental to the Order. In fact, a strength." Bruce was trying to make a point, a point that would provide some insight but not inflate an ego; a thought that one individual was better than the rest - which was far from the truth.

The meditation continued, a steady connection. So, Silas is the name of the individual Fenn had encountered. Bruce didn't know the name, all he and Vollen were told was that Fennex had intercepted someone who had accessed Tython unauthorized, but there really wasn't enough time to give details at the very moment. The saving grace however, was when Fennex had told the two he had taken the individuals into his care and was heading for the Academy; while there wasn't enough time for a full debrief, Bruce had the gist of what had transpired. Now he was being asked to share that insight, a task he would do his best to answer.

"Silas. An Exile of the Order, but no Sith." The purple suarian-like Jedi Councillor began. "His details are sparse for me, as those decisions were made long before I took up the mantle. The Kyber is not the sole reason, this I can say for certain. For yes, we may have a concentration of crystals within our borders - just as the Sith have, as well as the various formations throughout the galaxy. The Kyber crystals are, as you are fully aware, a living entity. As we undergo our own pilgrimages the crystals call to us and we cannot know for certain when, how, or where they will call. Because of this, the Jedi Order nor the Sith have any true ownership of the Kybers; the Kybers select us more than anything. But, the issue that had arise is that he had come here to our world - and I use that term loosely."

"There is no need to apologize for the question, Aliyah." Bruce had to take a moment to think, he needed to find the correct phrasing here, though he would speak truth. "As an Exile, you forfeit your affiliation with or Order and of course that means all of the resources we posses and our homes. Tython is a sanctuary for Jedi, young and old alike. Master Zeerda had acted out of that drive; he sought to preserve the sanctity and safety of our Order. I can assure you, I do not believe Silas will forever remain in our custody. The actions were a precaution taken, the Order has become a little uneasy lately with the rise of our former brothers and sisters who now call themselves Sith. They've done rapid expansions and have struck out openly out our temples. There was no malicious intent, with approaching Silas. Allowing an 'Exile' to continue to use our safety, security, and the areas we have tried to preserve is like having say... a World Leader being removed from power but still having full access to the planet's military might. Or a Police Officer who was dishonorably discharged from his agency but still access the databases on innocents or breaks into their homes to conduct a search of the premises in the name of the law." Bruce's face twisted as he finished off what he had said, he wasn't sure if he was making sense and was having a hard time trying to find accurate comparisons - but he had hoped the twi'lek sort of got what he was saying.

"But, you bring up a good point," The Caretaker continued, "He was here for those funerals - despite who may have invited him or not invited him. He had arrived without explicit permission, although I cannot speak more on that specific incident at this time... I'm sorry. But, I can tell you that we - the Order - were aware of his presence and I strongly suspect he was being watched during those proceedings."

"As to why no one had intervened then, well, it was a funeral for our fallen. He had come to pay his respects. For us to intercept him and remove him would likely cause a scene despite our cautions; this would be disrespectful for our members in attendance. For, a funeral is a celebration of the fallen life or lives - a tribute to everything they had done, a final goodbye and acknowledgement. While a sombre occasion it is also very much a joyful occasions as we walk their lives together, to share our stories, to share our respects... to come together. Having members removed would sully those memories and be disrespectful to our fallen, we want to remember the good times, yeah?"

Bruce was started to return to the world now. The room around him would slowly materialize around him and when he 'awoke' he focused his attention on the pink twi'lek he had been talking to all this time, another being he was happy to be communicating with. A Knight he was happy to be with, a Knight he felt had great potential if she took the necessary time to develop that potential; the offer to work with her directly was an offer she had graciously accepted, and as he worked with her he was developing a professional interest in her - perhaps in due time, she would be well suited for a unique job, perhaps.

He continued to keep his attention on her while she meditated or decided to come out of the meditation. It didn't matter to him, he was going to be here for her on which decision she made. He was also prepared to answer more questions from her, should she have them, he was also prepared to be a soundboard if she would rather.

He also had a question for her, but he wanted to give her a chance to speak. Bruce was starting to feel like a long winded old-man now. A smile flashed across his face as he thought.

@Autumn's Firefly

 

[Aliyah Phoenix]

As Bruce talked about it being their fight, she gently saw images of battle everywhere. Not just Jedi fighting, but civilians and soldiers too. He was right, it wasn't just her fight. Besides if it started getting bad enough she could always rejoin when she was a little more collected. She didn't answer him or anything, and stayed in meditation, preferring to listen to his answers. They made sense. It wasn't that she thought she was the only one that should be fighting, but if she had the power to help she felt the responsibility. Her judgement right now could be considered clouded though, and Aliyah wanted time to make sure what she thought was the right thing was actually the right thing. The Order did shuffle throught active fighters? Most people she'd seen in battle where the same people, but she didn't bother to mention that. Aliyah knew that staying on the sidelines wouldn't be easy for her, but this way she had the opportunity to study under a Jedi Master and help train people, something she still needed experience in. It seems some people are taking interest, others are just annoyed. The thought barely disrupted her.

"So he was an Exile, then." That was news to her. Though she hadn't gone to speak with Master Fennex yet, that made a lot of sense. When she'd met him on Nar Shaddaa, she honestly thought he was another Jedi, and that belief never really changed. He warned her against using her lightsaber in public, and that probably saved her a lot of trouble. But at worst, she thought he was someone like Venatus had been, an ally to the Order. But still, she could admit to herself that she jumped to conclusions in that moment. The dreamlike state moved back to a neutral moment, where all was calm. He spoke of the funeral, but it didn't affect her as much anymore. It hadn't gone away, but it was becoming easier to live with. Still, she took a deep breath, and continued to breath as Bruce mentioned remembering the good times. Her mind turned back to all the days where the war seemed irrelevant and everyone was just happy. It was a beautiful moment. Aliyah opened her eyes and looked at the ground for a second. Where the walls would've been there stood trees. Bruce was sitting there, calmly watching her as she fought back a yawn. Not that she was bored, just a little tired. "I wonder what would happen if I were to apologize to Master Zeerda. I used to meditate all the time. I should start again, it helps.

That was incredibly peaceful. I'm not sure how you did that. You helped clear up a lot of questions I had floating around. Thank you for listening to me, we'll have to see how things go from here. But I do want to ask... why listen at all?"

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

"Because Aliyah, I care." Bruce smiled warmly, "I believe in you more than I think you believe in yourself."

The slender, rather lanky bardottan rose to his feet and offered her a hand should she want it. "You are Jedi. You have the makings of one and I believe you're doing the right thing. I believe it always important for us to remember our roots, to remember our foundations in which we built on. During these times, it is easy to forget."

"You are capable of much I wanted to remind you of that as well... I can see it. The first steps to becoming a Jedi Master is to understand yourself. Knowing what you can do, in all aspects allows things to become fluid; as cliche as it may sound, taking the time to process it in meditation helps clear the mind. Do it enough, and soon it'll be second nature."

Bruce took another moment to ponder her statement, "The thing about Master Zeerda... he's a grumpy man; but he's reasonable enough. If you were to approach him and apologize to him, he might grumble but he'd appreciate it and respect you for it. Although... if he gives you a hard time, don't take it personal - I'll handle him myself." Bruce gave the young twi'lek an extremely playful smile.

Bruce had to keep a few things to himself; the Councillor wanted to ensure she could sort through things and understand as she makes her way through it. He had high hopes for her, if she could return to her roots she would go far within the Order - Bruce was certain. He wouldn't admit to it openly, but if she needed more intense guidance he would provide it to her - beyond the basic guidance he would offer as always. He didn't think he needed to tell her that all she had to do, if she was having a tough time with anything was to talk to him and he'd be available.

@Autumn's Firefly

 

[Aliyah Phoenix]

Taking a deep breath, Aliyah rose to her feet, accepting his help. What a serene place, it really was the best place to be talking about really weighted subjects. She'd been in a strange mood the last few days, but it was at least dulled now. Bruce said something about coming back to her routes and she smiled a little. Aliyah knew she was a Jedi, she never had any doubt in what she was. She did have some doubt in what she was doing, and hopefully taking a step back would help with that. Though she wasn't really trying to become a Master at the moment, the advice was appreciated. Being a Knight worked for her, annoying sometimes but that was life. She'd approach the trials again when she felt she was ready.

She couldn't help but laugh at the comments on Fennex. He seemed like a very easy going person from afar, but apparently he was took a lot more to handle. "I don't think he'll be hostile. We can be civil." Dusting off her robes for a moment, her hands drifted near her sabers. She shrugged and dropped them to her side, knowing she'd be teaching later anyways. That was probably the best way to practice and help others get the practice they need. "I have a lot to do, now, between catching Master Zeerda in a good mood and taking a break. Maybe I should train people, I know that always helps, if that's something the Council won't disapprove of." She didn't think they would, but confirmation would be nice. She would start with training herself with others, and teaching what she knew. It would be a start. Tynian already asked her to help train alongside a bunch of other Knights and Masters, and she thought it would be good experience. "Thank you, Bruce. I'll let time take it's course and heal. I'll fight when I'm fully in control of my emotions. Or when the fight comes to us."

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

"The Council will not disapprove, I speak with their authority on that matter right now. Not only do we approve, but it is encouraged. If you know someone or see someone in need to training, please do. But, in light of our discussion, you mentioned you hadn't thought of the philosophical meaning of the code until the trial. Before you take a student - in your own right - I'd recommend a few debates with your brothers and sisters... just seeing what they view the meaning as. Everyone, including myself, can benefit from getting other views. Makes you think." Bruce smiled.

"But on the note of that, I would like to ask you a question. A question I would like to hear." The bardottan lifted his hand to his chin, "Aliyah. When I asked you for what I should call you, you said that you found 'Phoenix' weird to go by. I would like to ask, Phoenix - the Phoenix of Vahla - What exactly does that title mean to you? Not what it means in general, but to you?"

@Autumn's Firefly

 

[Aliyah Phoenix]

"The Philosophy of the Code... I'd rather go over that with one of the Council anyways. I know what I think, and I know what most of the people I talked to interpreted it as, but obviously that isn't quite what I'm supposed to be learning. I have been thinking about taking a student, actually - a beggar boy, actually pretty strong with the Force. Helped me out on Ossus when I..." Aliyah paused for a second. Maybe mentioning how she went back to the Temple on Ossus wasn't the best idea just yet, nothing had really come up in her own searches. When something did, she'd mention it. "...ran into a couple of Sith. Managed to escape pretty much unscathed, he can handle a lightsaber pretty well for his first time... Maybe I should have brought him here... I just didn't feel comfortable asking. I don't really think I'd make a very good teacher right now, not in the way he needs it, not yet. Can't pour from a broken glass." Aliyah smiled back gently. She agreed and she wanted to learn, her training was never a Jedi's training. What she learned was how to lead, how to fight, and how to trust in the Force. Sounds like Jedi training, but fundamentally it wasn't. The basics she achieved with Knighthood, but learning on the move has really helped. This was just her first time adapting to loss, and really trying to be the Jedi she knew she could be. Which is why it was so strange that his next question's answer was almost the same subject.

"I'm used to Dad being called Knight Phoenix. Every time I hear it, I kind of hope to hear his voice answer. Maybe I'll turn around and he'll have the huge stupid smile on his face." She paused. "The Phoenix of Vahla was a thing that my Dad held as his ultimate responsibility, I guess. To protect the Vahla, but it was something else to him, it was a promise to protect everything. To protect life. And it means that to me too, but... it's kind of like a torch. Before now I was a part of that family, but I wasn't really accepting that, I still wanted to find my birth parents, and what happened to them. And I had plans with Venatus to go and find them, and we had plans to do things together. So many milestones that he'll never be able to see now... I don't really know how to explain it." She shook her head for a second, thinking over a couple words, wondering how to explain. But words failed her. It was a promise to herself, a promise to the Vahla, a promise to the Galaxy that she'd find a better way. That'd she'd live to be more than just herself. But more than any of that, it was a sense of belonging, even somehow closer than being a Jedi. It was accepting herself, and knowing that there was an entire tree of strangers that accepted you as one of their own. She just recited a poem, because honestly it spoke for itself. "You got it from your father, it was the best he had to give. And gladly he bestowed it, it's yours the while you live. It was fair the day you got it, and a worthy name to bear. When he took it from his father there was no dishonor there. Through the years he proudly wore it, to his father he was true. That name was clean and spotless when he passed it on to you. It is yours to wear forever, yours to wear the while you live. Yours, perhaps some distant morn, another child to give. And you'll smile as did your father, with a smile that all can share... If a clean name and a good name you are giving them to wear.

Sorry. It just... that."

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

Bruce listened to the young girl as she talked to him, he politely gave her his full attention as she explained things to him; when she arrived at the poem she sought to share with the Caretaker, he listened even more so - a description locked in a code or a saying, it was nice. It was these things that made him relish the fact that he was a scholar and how he'd liked to address things and decipher things. It was his belief that a lot could be told with something as simple as a poem or a single line.

When she concluded, the bardottan smiled before placing one hand on the twi'lek's shoulder, a soft touch like a father would to do his child to reassure them and comfort them. To Bruce he could see the poem meant a great deal to her and it resonated within her. That ever warm and comforting smile crossed his features and his hung his head happily, "Thank you, Aliyah. I understand."

The young knight had been a pleasure to speak with and he had a better understand of the girl and what made her tick. After he thanked her, he had a single follow up question for her. "You'd rather go over it with a council member, do you have anyone in mind?"

It also didn't take much for Bruce to acknowledge that she was hiding something about Ossus, but more often than not Bruce wasn't really the kind of person to pry into the business of others unless it absolutely required his attention. Sure she had a secret of some kind, he probably had some too - most people do. He told himself that perhaps she would tell him when she was ready but until then it would let it go.

@Autumn's Firefly