Chapter 2: The Blade that was Broken

[Aliyah Phoenix]

--Music--

It is a period of conflict and war

With the threat of Vahl and her force looming, Aliyah Coven has decided that her companion and teacher, Venatus, needs a modern weapon. To that end, she has convinced him to travel to Lothal.

There, the roles will reverse as she teaches him the basics of lightsaber creation, crafting a hilt, and finding a focusing crystal. However, the Order's eyes are ever watchful, and there are many who disapprove his methods.

The pair may find more than they bargained for on the Jedi's most sacred planet, defended against all intruders. For her master is in no way a Jedi.

@Aliyah Coven @Venatus Phoenix ​

 

[Aliyah Phoenix]

She was careful to fly their ship at low speed when entering the aired atmosphere of Lothal, a planet known for its natural kyber deposits. She had never been here before, but the time spent at her Temple taught her much about it. It was the nearest place the two of them could go to make a lightsaber, and she thought it would be safe, at least from Exiles. She knew Venatus had no true problem with them, but Aliyah was still unsettled. Spotting a clear landing area nearby, she put the freighter down before spinning in her chair.

"We're here. Did you grab your sword hilt thing? And what's that smell?"

Venatus had gone to his quarters to do some strange alchemy experiment or something. He seemed to be occupying himself during the flight. Aliyah wondered whether he didn't like the feeling of entering orbit, so he tried to distract himself. No, that wouldn't be right. She had never seen him afraid before, so she doubted he'd start now. He had told her that crafting a lightsaber hilt would take too much time, as he would have wanted to forge it himself, so he would instead use what remained of his sword and make it into a lightsaber. She was not sure how he would do that but considering everything they had seen together she wasn't too surprised.

"We'll be landing on the outskirts of the crystal caves. I don't want to disturb the temple."

She knew there would be Knights at the doors, so it wasn't that she was sneaking in. But trying to explain their situation to a Master would be a little different than explaining it to a Knight. She was also a knight of the Order, and Venatus acted like a Jedi more times than not, even if he didn't think so. This also might have been the only opportunity that Aliyah would have to try and convince him to fully join the Order. Assuming they would have him.

 

[Jon Atreides]

Jon stretched and yawned as he trudged along behind the kids, his back a little sore from sitting up against a stalagmite for so long, his stomach more than a little empty from not having had a meal in Force knows how long, and looking forward to a shower and a nice long nap. But first food, then all that.

He had agreed to accompany some Knights who were guiding a group of younglings into the caves to build their first lightsabers, and while it had been cute to see the little things get so excited when they found a crystal or when their blades finally sprang to life, Jon was definitely not eager to do it again any time soon. It was tiring work, sitting around doing nothing for hours on end. But then a young Togruta turned around and flashed him a grin that almost split his face in two as he waved his new blade in his hand and Jon had to concede that it had been worth it. He had felt more like a Jedi in the past few hours than in a long, long time.

Once out of the caves, he closed his eyes and let the sun's rays warm him up a little, but his attention was soon drawn down by the Togruta tugging at his robes. "Sup kiddo?" The only response he got was the youngling pointing off to the side with his other hand, lightsaber still gripped in it. Jon saw two beings not too far from them, a female Twi'lek and what seemed to be a human male.

He was sure no one was supposed to be near the caves today to give the youngling all the time they needed to build their blades, it was a delicate enough process without the kids getting disturbed by unwanted company. The Twi'lek looked like a Jedi, and he didn't really sense anything wrong with them, so maybe they were simply unaware of the caves being off limits for the day. Well technically they weren't really off limits now that the kids were done, so maybe they were just a little early.

Still, he had to check, didn't he. He gestured for the other Knights to carry on with the younglings while he went and checked out the duo. Approaching them, he waved in greeting with a smile on his lips.

"Hello there, heading into the caves?" He had already lead one group through the caves, why not one more.

@Autumn's Firefly @Aurius Pheonix

 

[Vorro Rayden]

Theme for this Post
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The wind swept the silky golden grass beneath his feet as he walked along a long windy path. Lothal was a peaceful planet far away from everything. There were Jedi here, but it was not like the crowded streets of Jedha. He could walk among the locals, and find himself lost inside of nature. He had only been here a few days, and didn't bother checking into the Temple. He doubted anyone would know his face, let alone they would most likely shun him away like so many did before him. Holding onto his wroshyr wood staff as he walked, the man contemplated his so far eventful day.

He had woken up early to help the locals graze their cattle and farm. It was grueling work, but he appreciated the bond between the people. Paying his goodbyes the quaint man was on his way towards the temple and to his ship. His eyes would narrow as he saw children leaving the cavern, lightsabers in hand. Stopping to watch them, he would rest his hands on the top of the staff--a small smile forming on his face. Memories of his own experiences came back to him, his old master, friends. Though the smile would quickly fade as he looked down towards his own empty waist.

He would watch as one of the children held the blade out in the open, shaking his head at the whole situation. Sabers were weapons of destruction and death--they shouldn't have been wielding it like that, they almost killed their instructor. He would make his way towards the group, listening in as the man called out towards the two other adults that approached. Vorro would take a good look at the children, pausing on a small chiss girl. His brown eyes would gloss over for a moment as images of Day began to flash back to him.

Taking a deep breath, he would close his eyes as he took a deep breath--his face visibly wincing. When he opened them, he would simply look towards the children and not the adults. "Did you..just build those sabers?" He would watch as many of them cheered and smiled towards his response.

Giving them a nod, he would rub his palms against the staff nervously as he looked out towards the sea of grass for a moment. "Those aren't toys..they're weapons." He would pause as he was unsure of what to say--he hadn't spoken to another Jedi in weeks, let alone younglings. "All life is precious, you..you should only use those if you absolutely must,,,and don't wave that around towards your Instructor..." He would pause as he shook his head, making a visible and awkward sigh as he shook his head to the side.

"Everyone can comeback from the darkness, you must show and find peace. Peace with yourself, your actions and who you were. The actions of your opponent and your enemy. You must respect them as another living entity of this galaxy. You must respect yourself and your enemy, protect them too...then you can protect yourself. Never forget the power of life...because all life is precious." He would glance towards the children, who had mostly glossed over his whole speech. Giving a nod towards them the man would unplant his stick from the earth and continue forward, past the adults. They probably thought he was crazy--they always did.

tag: @Aurius Pheonix @Autumn's Firefly @Wit

 

[Venatus Phoenix]

He emerged from his quarters in a most unusual garb; a white and blue flowing robe. It was an odd choice of clothing for the man who sported such cunning titles as The Red Rider. But he felt it necessary to leave his armor behind as it was not the most welcome sight. He was not afraid of judgment among the Jedi - they served the same cause, after all. He noticed that she had landed the ship farther away than necessary. Venatus looked down to the cooling hilt in his hand. It had once been the pommel of his sword, The Ashenblade, broken on the fateful day he had lost his memories. It was that point he most craved to find. He had hollowed the hilt and split it into many pieces as instructed.

"Yes, Aliyah, I grabbed my hilt thing. Oh? That's likely the magnesium you're smelling. It's very distinct in its odor. Ahh, is that why we landed so far out? Hmm."

Venatus left towards the lounge area, grabbing the staff of Hawthorn he had so recently carved. It was more of a walking stick than anything else, but it also helped sell the appearance of one mysterious and travel-weary. He grabbed his lute, which was carved from dark ashwood and framed in gold and brass, slinging it around his waist. He could still play fairly well, and he always felt music helped to cheer and lighten any mood. The freighter doors hissed open, and the vast and open air that greeted him made him gasp and cough. This was a vast difference from Nar Shaddaa, a sorry place that has been poisoned by greed and corruption. The grassy plains where an enjoyable feeling on one's feet and he could not help but feel safer here. It made sense that Aliyah would want to spend time at her temples too and after all the fighting they had been doing over the last few months even he wanted to rest.

Ahead, he spotted a group of children and at least two Jedi at the entrance to the crystal caves. He was happy he had left his weapons behind - especially if there were children. A gentle sadness washed over him for his own kind, but it lasted only moments before he quenched the thoughts. There was nothing to be done about it, grieving made no difference. They were here to expand their arsenal so that they might better stand a chance against enemy warriors. Preventing Vahl's return was paramount, and they were both sworn to protect the free people's of the Galaxy, as well as their brothers and sisters, bounded through the Force. To do that, he needed a weapon up to the task. A Knight broke from the ranks of children and called out to them. Venatus bowed low in response.

"Younglings, Knights, I did not expect to see so many of you here. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Venatus. Yes, we intend to enter the caves, Master Jedi. Is this a bad time? We did not intend to interrupt a lesson. We could also return at a time more opportune."

​

 

[Jon Atreides]

Jon tried to get a read on the man who had introduced himself as Venatus, unable to make a fix on his accent or his way of speaking. He had travelled a fair deal as a child, and seen and heard a lot of different folk, but this man was throwing him off. Guess in a galaxy as vast as theirs it was never impossible to be surprised.

"Venatus, nice to meet you. I am Jon." He glanced once more at the twi'lek, before turning back to the weird man. Going on a hunch, he decided to answer Venatus's question with one of his own. "You're not a Jedi, are you? What about her?" He gestured towards the Twi'lek as he asked the question.

He wasn't sure what he to do if they actually weren't Jedi, at the very least he was ready to inform the other Knights to get the kids to safety as soon as possible, in case the strangers were here to harm them. But he didn't sense any hostility from them, and his gut feeling was that there wasn't really any genuine danger here. But he had to be sure, these were troubling times after all.

 

[Vollen Shai]

Not often Vollen was on Lothal, rarer still was it for him to return anywhere near the planets Kyber caves. But he'd returned to visit an old friend, and sought to purify some blades of his own he'd taken on Balmorra. For that he'd need new crystals, task enough for anyone to acquire, and certainly for the younglings that exited them now.

He remembered finding the crystal for his very own lightsaber, it felt like an age ago. At the time it felt so much like a feat to have crafted it, reaching into the force and feeding it through you, into something that would be with you until your life was over, or the Order abandoned. He certainly had no plans to do either anytime soon, but there was a weight to the thoughts, a comforting one. To be reminded of the Order, the life it had given him, and true some terrors too. It was all part of his life now, he was learning to understand that. Returning here only helped confirm that, remind him of the purpose that was coming with it.

To then see before the cave two familiar faces, that threw him off balance a bit. They were speaking to a Jedi, Knight Atreides if he wasn't mistaken. Though why they were here he wasn't so sure,

"She's Knight Aliyah Coven, Venatus... I must admit I never thought to ask" He said with a smile as he appraoched "The two of them helped us on Balmorra, so certainly some friendly faces" Vollen entered with a smile. The trip to Lothal had become an introspective one, it was good to be lifted out of it by some familiar company. He offered both a handshake and a hearty laugh, serendipitous it was. He wouldn't question it.

"Vollen Shai, I don't believe we've met" He stretched out a hand to the Jon, a new acquaintance, before turning back to the duo "Why come to Lothal?" He queried. The children laughed in the background, they were clearly being well looked after.

 

[Aliyah Phoenix]

Afraid wasn't the right word to describe what Aliyah felt right now. It was more of a jittery excitement. There were so many Jedi! She hadn't expected this many. She smiled to the younglings as Venatus greeted the Knights that had assembled, and just as she was about to reply to Jon, a familiar face popped into view - Vollen. She beamed at him, smiling gently before turning back to the assembled knights. The one with a walking stick, who didn't look unlike Venatus, seemed to emanate a gentle sorrow. But Venatus' warm glow was almost a counter to it, and she stuck in the middle. Aliyah did a gentle curtsy.

"Yes, I'm a Jedi. I brought him here to construct his first saber, something we will need if he wanted to keep fighting Exiles. Swords are good and all, but they're hardly a substitute for a lightsaber! We would have gone to Ilum until we heard what happened there..."

She took a moment to smile and enjoy the company. She hadn't seen Vollen since Balmorra, and truthfully she was slightly worried. Not as worried as she was over Bri, however. Vollen could handle himself, that she had seen firsthand. She was slightly amused by what Venatus had chosen to wear, but it did look non-threatening and kind of suited him. The two other knights, both human thought of different tone and shape. One was older and seemed weary and wise, the other young and welcoming. But there was a tension in the air, as though at any moment something could go wrong and they'd all draw sabers.

Why am I so worked up? Everything is going to be fine. I'm home, for now.

She was aware that everyone wondered a simple, unspoken question. Why was she, a Jedi, traveling with him? That was a very long story, and not one she wanted to tell at the second. She'd leave it to Venatus if it came up, he loved the opportunity to sing about things. She gently turned to Vollen, almost singling him out, looking at the newest batch of scars he had acquired.

"What happened over there?"

 

[Vorro Rayden]

Vorro would listen to the others as they spoke, they talked of fighting and sabers. It appeared to the quaint Jedi that none of the Jedi had met before, albeit it appeared that one of the men had known the Twi'lek and the strange man. Holding onto his staff he would watch as they spoke about constructing sabers and fighting. His face winced at the thought of his time on Illum, watching his master die. Shaking his head he would sigh--he didn't feel like getting into this.

But, going against his better judgement the man would step forward his voice soft as he spoke, "Tell me, what do you plan to have after fighting.." His voice was steady as he looked around, "Do you think having a lightsaber is going to bring peace to this galaxy?" He would shake his head as he squeezed his hands upon his staff. "It's not going to end up the way you think it will; fighting and bringing death." He would sigh as he looked back to the children, "They're too young for this..."

 

[Vollen Shai]

As Aliyah pointed out his scars he paused for a moment, lifting a hand to his face. He’d never even realised he’d got them, there’d been so little down time with everything that he’d never stopped to reflect on himself. At least, not physically. Running his hand along he found a cut along the back of face, coming down along the jaw. Another again, smaller, across his temple. What did he even look like at this point? Where had they even come from? He had to laugh,

“Force, I wish I could tell you. Balmorra perhaps? Or Devaron? Apparently I’ve had more close calls than I thought” he replied with a smile, almost bewildered by his ignorance. He’d been so worried about his life, about what he’d been doing, he’d forgotten to even check. He guessed if it wasn’t maiming, it was fine. He wouldn’t have said six months ago, let alone longer than that. A lot had changed, and so fast.

But familiar faces helped keep him grounded like this, he often worked with similar people, it was nice to stumble on them even in the wild like this.

“Can’t imagine you’ve had any easier a time yourselves though”

The Jedi looming after the younglings turned to speak as Aliyah finished explaining their purpose here. His caution was correct, understandable. Though Vollen wanted to reassure him,

“Venatus and Aliyah I don’t believe are under any apprehensions on what a single blade can do. If anything Venatus seems more restrained than many members of our own Order from what I’ve found” he replied calmly. They were good people, no one here had anything to worry from them,

“I share your preference for non-violence nonetheless. I never caught your name I’m afraid?” Vollen offered the man his hand, before addressing the group “Certainly enough we shouldn’t stand here bickering amongst ourselves, reminds me far too much of the convocations anyhow. The younglings I’m sure need an eye on them with new blades after all”

Vollen looked across at the children, the Knight was right, all too young for war. Hopefully then their lightsabers would be for little more than training and discipline any time soon.

 

[Venatus Phoenix]

"It's hardly of any consequence. They've taken to calling me Venatus Phoenix. You have grown, Knight Vollen. I would speak with you alone when we have the time.

Dear Master Jedi, forgive me. I fight to end all fighting, my friend; that is the truth of it. Only once the children of the Force lay down their arms can this war truly be over, and to deny a war is at hand would be folly. Make no mistake, I take no pleasure in causing it. Though I find myself quite capable of inflicting it."

Venatus paced forwards, into the middle of the group for mere moments, pacing gently in a circle. His mind was abuzz with thought, as he had planned to discuss many things with the Jedi when time permitted. But now that he was here, he found himself singularly focused on constructing the blade so that these conversations might happen. He could tell the darker man who sported a walking stick like him was deeply affected by the war. He had likely lost someone, the glassy look his eyes reflected seemed to confirm this. Venatus knew the feeling well, he too had lost many people, some he had even sent to their deaths in the name of freedom. He never allowed himself to dwell on them, however, as that might well prove disastrous. While his memories were still returning, he needed to stay positive so as to not shock any thoughts to the front. Noticing how intently Aliyah peered at Vollen, he gently tapped her on the shoulder before whispering;

"If there is something you'd like to say, tell him without everyone assembled..."

Turning back to the assembly, he continued in conversation.

"Do you know when I first held a weapon, Master Jedi? At the age of seven. Even without my amnesia, I could tell you that, I still have the calluses on my hands. From the age of seven, I was taught what a weapon could do, and it instilled in me the deepest respect for life. Learning how to fight now simply ensures you can spend more time brokering peace later, wouldn't you agree?"

After hearing Vollen's musing, Venatus began to gently chuckle before shaking his head with a smile. The Knight was being very convincing, and he appreciated that - it was good to know he could rely on Vollen in situations like this. He had no illusion, it could have been a very dicey situation had it played out differently, or with another crowd.

"Yes, it is pointless to let the little ones in on such babble. They have so little time to be children, let them cherish it. I must be finding this crystal, and then... constructing the weapon? I am still unsure as to how this works exactly."

 

[Aliyah Phoenix]

"I was just going to ask whether he'd like to spar again sometime. You don't have to make it awkward."

Aliyah huffed gently. She knew that Venatus meant the best, but sometimes he was a little overbearing. Vollen was an awesome Jedi, yes, and he was entertaining. Getting to know him better would be fun. Of course, his papa bear mind immediately took that as something more than it was, or perhaps he was just afraid of that scenario. She looked towards the kids, past the assembly, and towards the cave, and then back at the group as Venatus finished speaking. They had been talking about the philosophy behind weapons or some such.

"Yea, we've seen a few things. You wouldn't believe the creatures we fought on Nar Shaddaa, they were nasty buggers. I'm surprised I haven't had as many close calls as you, only a few scratches compared to your scars. Although I think I have Venatus to thank for that. Also, in case you didn't hear, would you be open to sparring again sometime?"

She realized they should be along soon to actually make the lightsaber itself, as Venatus had not done anything like this before. As though to prove the point, he decided to announce it at the top of his lungs for every Knight to hear. She didn't bother trying to cover up her gentle laughing, shaking her head once before calming herself again. For all of his wisdom and knowledge, sometimes he could act like a total child. It was priceless every time.

"I'm Aliyah, by the way. Thanks for introducing me, guys. The gist is pretty simple, you need to assemble the crystals and components in order. I'll show you when we get inside the cave. Speaking of, if it's alright, we should probably get to actually finding that crystal for him."

 

[Vollen Shai]

Such a respite like this was rare for everyone involved he was sure. A conversation that wasn't just directed at something specific wasn't something he got to have all that often, just compare stories and scars, do what people are meant to do. He was glad of it, he had to say. A slight moment of concern passed his mind as Venatus asked to speak privately at some point, for what that might be Vollen had no idea,

"Of course Venatus, whenever you feel is time, my door is always open" He replied with a smile despite his concern. Hopefully he worried for nothing. He often did.

Aliyah was in good spirits though, and that was something he appreciated. She had no scars true, but that didn't mean a whole lot. It's not like he'd even known he'd had them. It can be hard to understand where you're at, often harder then knowing it in others. But no, he shouldn't think like that, they seemed a good pair, they would come through alright. He chuckled at her story before replying,

"Do I even want to know about them? But no, Certainly up for a little training, though I hope you know I've learnt a few things" He said with a smirk. It wasn't often he practiced with his lightsaber, certainly not for duels. It would be a good opportunity to know where they'd both come to now, and a better chance to chat than this rather happenstance meeting they had now, fortuitous as it was. As Aliyah confirmed whether it was alright they continue with Venatus' construction, Vollen glanced at his fellow Jedi before continuing,

"Typically Kyber crystals are a rather... well protected piece of knowledge, as would be the construction of a lightsaber. They're not just tools that come together in a snap, nor for just anyone to wield" he glanced back at the younglings behind him, still talking and playing, being guided in their first steps "Younglings excluded. As much as I feel being a Jedi is something you do, not are, I don't know how the Council would take should they find out about this..." He offered with a hint of mischief. Such deposits were maintained by the Order for its use, not for the galaxy at large. It wasn't something Vollen could just let them interfere with, not with someone from beyond their Order.

 

[Venatus Phoenix]

Venatus gently hummed as Aliyah snapped back at him, chuckling slightly. There was still some uncertainty as to how the two of them were supposed to act. By one token, Venatus was her teacher and equal in almost every sense of the word. His teaching style was very demanding of most people, even by a Jedi's standards, and Aliyah was no exception to this rule. However, after the most recently engaged the Exiles on Balmorra and realized the gravity of his position and how much the girl had come to mean to him, Venatus had formally adopted her as his own. She had never known her own parents and was raised as a slave and a monk. There was so much more for her to experience in this life, and part of him could not help but wonder whether he was preventing her from pursuing it.

"Hello, awkward. I'm Dad. She's too modest for her own good, Vollen. She made up for in skill what she lacked in grace."

Both of them explained Kyber crystals in very different ways. Aliyah, as usual, sported her hyperactive unspecific descriptions, and Vollen being quite Jedi-like in his mystery. Venatus knew well the planet was held by the Order, but Aliyah never told him that it was a guarded secret. In this, he was slightly vexed, even among his own people the sharing of knowledge was common. But these were Jedi, not Embers, as Jedi did not kill those who refused to obey. It was their right to refuse it to him, but from Vollen's tone, it sounded as though this was him acting on behalf of the Order as opposed to speaking for himself. Again, Venatus could respect that, though he felt it necessary to explain his allegiances after the comment about being a Jedi. It seemed nobody understood that he could not and would not associate with the war directly until his people were safe, and their homeworld secure and returned to the horizons. As the Vahla are a nearly extinct species, every time he went into battle he risked extinguishing one of the last of his race.

"I would be pleased to speak with your council given the chance. I most recently discovered Ilum to be overrun by aberrations, and as I am sworn to destroy such monstrosities, I plan on purifying the entire planet. I'd like their blessing if not their assistance, although I feel our allies will do regardless. Unfortunately, for all the good such oaths have caused, the strictures and tenants prevent me from becoming a Jedi. I have considered it in a lengthy measure, but until my task is complete and my people are safe I cannot swear allegiance to anyone associated with the war effort openly.

I aided you and fought on Balmorra not because I wanted to act the part of a Jedi. I fought because the people of Balmorra should have the right to choose their own freedoms. As the smallfolk of Balmorra had no champion on the field, I took their banner for my own and fought on their behalf. And I shall do so again, at the Orders request if needed. My allies and resources are yours, no matter how limited in size and number. But in that regard, so too would I be bound to oppose you if the Order chose to start conquering planets and restricting the free peoples of the Galaxy. Though I highly doubt it would ever come to that."

 

[Aliyah Phoenix]

"Nobody really wants to notice their own scars, you goof. And yea heard you were promoted to Master. I'm very impressed. I've learned a few things myself, although I think you've had just a little more practice."

She was a little flustered with Venatus' insinuation but she didn't really let it show. The instant that Vollen mentioned him acting like a Jedi, however, was a red flag to her. Venatus was hypersensitive about the subject, he didn't even want her to be in the Order or a part of the war at all. They'd argued about it before, and every time it ended the same way. On this, he wouldn't ever budge, no matter how hard she tried to convince him. But maybe, just maybe, Vollen could talk some sense into his logic. If he decided to remain neutral until Vahla was back on the Galactic map, the Order could be wiped out and Exiles reigning supreme. They would conquer Vahla and enslave it again, and all the two had fought for would be for nothing.

"Oh wow, where did you dig that fossil of a joke up?"

She giggled at the joke, before stopping herself from whacking him in the arm for the playful insult. Vollen went on about how the kyber crystals were guarded secrets, and she started getting a little worried. She didn't think the Order would refuse him entry, even if he wasn't a Jedi, and if they did the two of them would have to rely on unprotected deposits of the crystals. She wasn't surprised about wanting to keep the lightsaber a secret, though she simply didn't see the need in it withholding information from him. She trusted Venatus more than she did almost anyone else alive, he would never betray her and has always been by her side. Even from the beginning. And nothing reminded her more of that fact that hearing the same speech for the fiftieth time.

"It's all well and good that we are sworn to protect, but the Order is the only thing keeping even the smallest iota of peace in the Galaxy as a whole. We could do so much more if we had full access to their resources, and you could teach entire classrooms of people how to fight and live like an honorable person. The Jedi could use a man like you."

 

[Vollen Shai]

Venatus' joke elicited a groan from Vollen, but a smile followed. He was certainly a character this man, one he'd be welcome to assist. The two were good people though, doing what they did, he could never doubt their intentions, even if he did wish they might more formally associate. Aliyah was of the Order, but Venatus, well, clearly by his reply he particularly see himself joining up anytime soon. Though Aliyah at least seemed to want to change that. A prod in that direction wouldn't hurt,

"We could use you and you could use us. At your age it wouldn't be like being inducted, like a child, like so many were long ago. Even with the whispers and rumours round the galaxy about our selfishness, our inaction, which I must admit some of which are true, there is a core of goodness in the Order still, or at the very least in the people within it. Taking the name 'Jedi' is nothing more than a public commitment to do that, to work with others who want to do just that" He said it all, though inside him something knew that it was an idealised version of the Order. He himself had been impressed into the Order in the dying days of the war, along with so many others like him. That wasn't something the Order should be proud of. And if he had his way it wouldn't be happening anymore. But a volunteer, that was who should be with them.

"Since the Darkness anyway. The Order in the war was a different beast altogether, as so many structures can be when thrown into the fire" He was sincere in his words, and thought really, if Venatus was to be with them he ought to know there was failures too. Honesty would be appreciated, he thought.


@Aurius Pheonix @Autumn's Firefly

 

[Venatus Phoenix]

Venatus gently chuckled as Vollen groaned in exasperation and Aliyah scoffed a snide remark back at him for the fatherly humor. But it seemed that the subject had turned from gaining a weapon to becoming a Jedi. Was that the key, then, to being able to make a lightsaber, one must become a Jedi. He was still cautious of painting too big a target on his back at this stage in galactic history. He would need time to fully regain his memories and with them, his strength and mastery of the Force as he journeys and uncovers new uses as well. The Jedi could help him in this, it was true, but it might mean losing any sway over his existing Exile allies. As dubious an alliance as it may be, perhaps it could survive a simple title change.

"The Jedi and I share similar moral compasses, it is true, but I think you have me painted in the wrong light. What I do now does not all stem from a desire to do good. It is atonement for my past and the terrible damage which me and mine wrought. Some of my amnesia has begun to lift, and I remember faint whispers of my past. I have killed many, Vollen. Many who may have deserved their fate, and countless more who did not. I am not certain your Order would be very welcoming of that fact."

They both spoke, and it seemed as though a moment of clarity was struck between the three of them. Venatus could see why the two of them could want a Jedi in him, he was a capable warrior and decent leader. He had begun to question whether he was trying to give Vollen and Aliyah reasons he couldn't be a Jedi, rather, he was stating the reasons he thought he couldn't. The realization was one he did not expect, but it came at an opportune time. Venatus resolved to open his mind to their words and try to reason with his own doubts, giving this day as a grace period for the Jedi. So far, he had little reason to mistrust them.

I have heard a lot about Jedi misconduct, but I have never witnessed it myself. Likewise with most of the other rumors that have been spread about them. Perhaps there are more elements at work than just the Exiles. Allies in the shadows, perhaps?

It was a disturbing thought. Although his primary fight lay with the Embers of Vahl, cruel religious fanatics though they were, the Exiles had become a prevalent threat. Not only to himself and his adoptive daughter but to his allies (even those within their ranks) and friends as well. It seemed that the war screamed for him to simply choose a side or get swept away in an oncoming clash of light against darkness. He could see now the need for an agent within the ranks of the Order to ensure that it does not stray, to keep it true to its code. But was that agent him? Aliyah was already and would always be a Jedi, he knew she would protect the people of the Galaxy as she had been taught and do her duty no matter the consequences. Was this another calling? He knew not.

"No matter how strong a blade is forged, if you put it through its paces in the fires of war, it will eventually bend and break. That is true of all things, be it a weapon, person, or organization. But that war caused many good people to do otherwise horrendous things, as all wars do. It is not your Order's past that I fear, rather it is the future, where the past may once again repeat itself.

If you would, we might walk and talk? Assuming you will allow me to complete the lightsaber, perhaps under the incentive of hearing the two of you out without complaint?"

​

@Vollen Shai @Autumn's Firefly ​

 

[Vollen Shai]

"More than enough of us have done the same I assure you, as little comfort as that might offer. We're certainly not perfect, but were striving for it, and that's enough sometimes I think" Vollen replied to Venatus. The conversations tone grew a little more serious, true, it went with the territory. Who they were, and why they fought, and why they did anything at all. These weren't simple questions to be brushed aside with a laugh and a smile. But still, he'd keep wearing one anyway, today was to be a cathartic one for him, he would keep it that way,

"But despite that, don't believe all the rumours, please, there's little truth to many of them, and I'll happily own up to the ones that are. There are some people who simply don't like us I'm afraid, and there's only so much we can do to stop that" He finished as the man suggested they walk and talk. Good thought, they'd been standing by the caves entrance for a long while now, and even though he knew it wasn't exactly Order to let the man in, he was being looked after by one of their number, and after all, they'd do more good than harm, he felt that much instinctively.

And so Vollen waved them into the entrance to Lothals Kyber caves. The entrance to the caves was nothing of note, and if you didn't know what lay buried deeper perhaps you'd never do more than peak into the door. But the Order knew, and so the Order kept watch. The crystals were too powerful, important to be left alone. They needed a steady hand. And so did one to forge their own blade here, just as all Jedi had to at some point. Vollen would welcome the man aboard if they'd have him, and he was sure Aliyah had suggested it before now. Perhaps, between the two of them, they could show him why the light could be good.

"I'll take you up on that Venatus, just follow my lead" He said, walking them further into the cave, as the angle began to lower, and they walked deeper into the earth "Breathe. Feel the earth. All around this world, and here in particular, the force comes to a head, a nexus, feeding the planet, into the Kyber especially. It's purer here than most of the galaxy, more peaceful than much of it as well" Vollen tried to guide him to feel the light side of the force as it swarmed around them. In the Kyber caves here they would almost be bathing in it, drinking it in. That's why he came here in the first place, it's purity. He was going to need it if we was going to do what he meant to. He patted the hilts on his belt.

He could not forget, once they reached the heart of the cave then it would be time. Perhaps it would be a sign to Venatus as well.


@Autumn's Firefly @Venatus Phoenix

 

[Aliyah Phoenix]

Aliyah was slightly shocked as Venatus revealed parts of his past to Vollen in a relatively casual, although serious, manner. He used to be so closed off, and now he felt confident enough to speak openly to another Jedi? Today was a day for firsts, apparently. Vollen also began to open up about the Order's history, a history that Aliyah had never really delved into. It was interesting to listen to as the two of them spoke, a pair of learned heroes that shared philosophies. It really seemed like Venatus was beginning to understand were she and Vollen were coming from.

"Nobody is perfect, and everyone makes mistakes. You're an entirely different person now than you were then. It wasn't your fault you were put in those circumstances. You did what you had to do to survive, just like anyone else would."

"Besides -", she added to Vollen's initial remark, "...if you were a member of the Order, you would have a say in how it grows. You could help lead it in a direction that you see to be right."

They went on to talk about how the Order had truly lost its way during the one hundred years darkness. As a kid, she had heard stories of the great battles that had taken place. Most of them were lies, people telling tall tales to get attention from prospective partners. But they had always fascinated her. But the tone that Vollen took was so serious and dark that all her curiosity disappeared almost immediately. Finally, Venatus agreed to hear the two of them out as an incentive to allow him into the crystal caves. It was smart if it was a trick, but she sensed that he was being genuine. They entered the cave, and immediately Aliyah could feel the hum of the kyber inside, like a singsong vibration. It was a nexus of the light, as Vollen explained it to Venatus. Taking a deep breath, she smiled and almost did a twirl before calming down and standing normally.

"This place has always been gorgeous. Just stay true to yourself, and everything will go smoothly"

 

[Venatus Phoenix]

-Music-​

"Yes... I suppose you are both right. That does not make what I did right, though dwelling on past mistakes does nobody any good. I should not be so near-sighted, and instead, focus on what we are here to do."

As they began to walk towards the cave, both Vollen and Aliyah continued to add points as to the Order's current state and how he could help improve it. Venatus could not help but notice that the two of them together worked well for diplomatic situations, something he would be sure to bring up to them both in the near future. For the time being, he did as he had promised and patiently listened to their words. He requested that Venatus not take heed to the false reports that had been circling the galaxy, and to that Venatus simply chuckled. Not so long ago he had no so accidentally vaporized a screen displaying one such broadcast, the lies spoken by the robotic voice unsurprisingly causing him to temporarily vent in frustration. The fact that the free peoples actually believed such nonsense was nothing short of a tragedy in an of itself.

"Do not worry. Those false rumors are exactly that, false. I knew as much from the instant I met Aliyah and since then onward. I will disregard them if I can, destroy them if I cannot. Such lies irritate me to no end, the sheer dishonor of the act is appalling. And yes, again, you are correct. I could help shape it and allow it to grow, teach my own fighting style and force techniques. My ideals and philosophies I believe would help, but I doubt many others would agree with them."

Venatus moved forward calmly as Vollen waved towards the barren entrance to the crystal caves. To an outsider, it appeared to be nothing more than another of Lothal's many natural rock formations. But to the trained force sensitive, they would know that there was something much more profound laying in secret, guarded under lock and key. The famed kyber crystals, almost universally protected by the Jedi Order. It was an honor to be allowed within, of that Venatus had no doubt, and he endeavored to act as respectfully as he was willed inside. There was a strange and welcoming aura that flowed from the entrance and took to the air outside, bathing them all in its warm grasp. As Vollen instructed him to follow his lead and do as instructed, he did. Breathing in deeply and closing his eyes, he allowed his own force power to dissipate and explore the cave, mingling with the kyber's natural potency. It was wonderful, as though each and every one of the crystals was alive and trying to talk to him, in their own ways.

"This place... it's filled with such energy and life. The likes of which I haven't felt in... it must be years now."

Gently bringing his hand up to just barely graze the rock wall as they continued their descent, anyone watching him could almost swear the sparks of his eyes were getting lighter, going from a virulent amber to a light butterscotch color. For the first time in his entire life, it was as if he was completely free from Vahl's influence. He alone had managed to overcome her foul will for the majority of his life and continued to do so, but this was the first time he felt completely welcome in the presence of the Light Side of the Force. The thought caused him to gently smile, nobody at home would ever have believed that a Vahla would walk the halls of the Jedi and consider becoming one of their members. If he accepted, he would be the first Vahla to join the Order and fully embrace a life of service towards the greater good. It would be harder for him, but he was willing to try, and he felt surrounding himself with friends who could tell him if he lost his way, and strike him down if he refused to make it right. As they approached the inner chamber, Venatus felt something. Perhaps it was a calling, perhaps something more, his curiosity begged him to investigate further.