Time to Step Up - Another Day

[Bruce Guleya]

Vandor-1, Coruscant System
Time: 1000 Local
Theme

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Bruce Guleya had been studying and trying to familiarize himself with shuttle craft operations. More often then not, he'd typically just set it to autopilot and maneuver in large - mostly open areas. But every now and again he'd try and take control of the controls himself, this was one of those times. Bruce had brought the shuttle in and was sailing through the many mountains of Vandor-1, conducting what he defined as a survey mission. He really had no main goal here, but something told him he needed to check it out and he was here. The shuttle streaked through the skies and he was doing a half decent job of keeping it together - he was feeling a little proud of himself.

He wasn't flying alone though, he was flying with one of his contacts that he was becoming more and more like a friend with each visit and each adventure. The last time he physically worked with his partner was back on Dantooine when she found her crystal - since then they had the occasional run in on his visits at the temples - which were becoming a bit more frequent now. He had managed to keep in contact with her via commlink but even these days things were stretched thin, with all the business in the galaxy - but with the Exiles pushing for an NAP with each other, things had started to cool down... but no agreement had been officially struck; his companion, Eivor Vivas.

He knew that Vandor had recently gained attention for various reasons and it wouldn't be that much longer until they start settling the planet or working within the planet, Bruce wanted to take advantage of the calm before the storm so to speak. With the Republic starting to gain traction and becoming a much more predominate faction in the galaxy, getting closer to Coruscant might prove beneficial for the Jedi to start and investigate... although the good Jedi Master had to admit that he hadn't much luck with new discoveries lately - but it didn't stop him.

Bruce smiled to himself, but that smile faded real fast when the ship's computer began to beep at him and indicate a gradual loss of altitude. As he attempted to correct the issue, he was failing to gain control. Looking forward he was getting closer and closer to the peeks of one of the many mountains in the area, he couldn't gain any altitude. The system continued to tell him that he needed to pull up, he cursed under his breath - and although he maintained a positive outward he was on edge inside. The altitude began dropping more rapidly and he started getting closer to the peak, he gripped onto the controls and although the controls failed to respond; he wrapped himself in the Force and projected it outward to grip the hull of the ship with an immediate grab he was able to bank the shuttle hard left with the wing clipping the shuttle causing an jolt that tossed the ship side to side.

"Sod it! Sorry, brace yourself!" Bruce shouted back, although fruitless. "We're losing altitude and I need to try and land this thing... storm too..." Beyond the mountain top there was a hefty snowfall. Although problematic, Bruce had some confidence. Gripping the controls and flipping the switches he got the landing gear to lower, the controls began to free up with some quick thinking and quick movement he brought the shuttle in - saw a good spot that might work to his advantage.

With some struggles he managed to get the shuttle down, the shuttle rocked with an violent shake tossing anything not tied down aside. The shuttle slid across the snow and slide to a halt nearing a cave mouth, half buried. The outcropping offered a small level of shelter from the snow falling down.

"Not. Very. Graceful. More study..." Bruce breathed out.

@GABA

 

[Eivor Vivas]

Bruce reassured the redhead that he could handle flying the craft as they entered Vandor's atmosphere. Evee easily accepted it as she struck by awe as she watched the mountainous terrain come into view. She was glad she researched before leaving, wearing layers of alternating cream, emerald and browns to combat the cold of the high altitudes they would be travelling in on their way to a remote mountain colony. She had left the cockpit for only a minute when she heard a series of alarms and beeps behind her and the ship shifted harshly as she turned to return to the cockpit where Bruce was doing his best to regain control of the shuttle.

Eivor jumped into the seat next to him as she buckled up, the ship rocked hard, throwing anything not tied down in the back crashing across the ship. The wind blew the snow hard, leaving nothing but almost whiteout conditions for them. Evee gritted her teeth as he worked the ship, finding enough of a clearing for a rough landing. She shut her eyes tightly, turning her head away slightly until she no longer felt the ship moving and Bruce breathed out, suggesting he needed more practice. The girl rolled her head to glance at him, "Yes, but next time, I fly." she told him unbuckling her restraints and climbed out of her seat as she went to the ship's terminal control system, reading the technical reports of failures around the ship. She frowned, glancing upwards as the illuminators flickered, "Something burst it looks like, its leaking into the engines, flooding them." she frowned as she watched her breath condense from the cold that seemed to overtake the ship.

"Not much we can do...by the time we get help, it'll freeze in this cold and it will take more time to thaw if we wish to salvage anything." Evee looked over her shoulder, "Lets get shelter and fire set up in that cave out there and we can think of a new plan." she grabbed her thick coat that was sprawled on the floor and slipped inside it, already feeling warmer as she begun to collect her belongs and the supplies they would need to build a camp for the night.

When Bruce was ready, she and the Jedi Master exited the ship and stomped through the snow to get to the cave. Her nose and fingers were numb by the time the fire was started but it was a welcome relief from the subzero cold and blowing snow. She sat close to the fire, working on the comm transmitter, "We're not going to get any signal in this storm, we'll have to wait until morning..or it blows over." she frowned and glanced at Bruce before her eyes slowly looked around the rocky walls of the cave, it certainly was a better choice than having to sleep in some sort of animal.

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

"I think, you might be right." He smiled lightly, "But how would I learn?" He chuckled.

Bruce wandered over to Eivor, getting as close as he needed to look over her shoulder to see what she was looking at. A leak? He couldn't help but to wonder how the leak even got in there without them noticing, maybe there was some more faulty equipment he wasn't that dense, the systems should have detected that. He shook his head, this wasn't his day, technology sometimes refused to play nice with him. The temperature was starting to drop, just another problem; it would have been nice to remain in the shuttle for shelter in the storm but with the heating systems appearing to fail, he knew Eivor was right and they needed to find shelter and fire elsewhere.

He collected his equipment along with some rations and water for them to sustain themselves. He had layers matching that of the traditional Jedi robes. He gave himself a once over to ensure all of his personal items were in order and secured before he collected the supplies. "Well, you've got me lets go." He allowed Evee to take lead, although he had a few layers he felt no true chill in his body, he had used the Force to control his muscle functions and provide a level of warmth. He was comfortable but he couldn't hold this forever but he could for quite awhile; one of the perks of being very much attuned to the light side of the Force.

They trudged through the snow and the storm, a bone chilling frigid wind wrapped around them as they were pelted with snow and ice before they had to endure a slight climb up and over the accumulation in the front of the cave mouth. They stepped into the cave and there was an instant relief from the wind that had been howling, the only thing that reminded the two that they were sheltered from a storm was whistling of the wind as it passed by the cave mouth. Bruce took a moment to think, he almost made the suggestion that they go a bit deeper into the cave - just to be clear of the opening, the cave appeared to be a bit more deeper than he had thought; was it a good idea to be so close that someone or something could see the flames? Well it could work in their benefit or against them. Perhaps some locals would see it and offer assistance or maybe it would harm them and they'd become targets? Only time would tell.

The fire roared to life and the soft warm glow filled the cavern and as long as they remained further away from the opening, it wouldn't take much time for the natural insulation of the cavern walls to act accordingly. He could see the chill forming within Evee and the need for warmth, the fire would quickly get to work. He shifted his position and gently embraced his companion in his arms lending his own body heat to her to help cut that chill away. He chuckled without saying a word to her for a moment. "Well, I thought we would be closer - but I sure as heck didn't think it'd be like this!" He'd hold her until she started to feel better and then he'd release her.

He nodded in defeat, even though they had height to their advantage natural phenomenons could easily defeat that advantage. "A night with you, I can't exactly complain." The awkwardness of that statement lost on him. He closed his eyes, slowing his heart and breathing, opening his mind, he reached out and across the mountainous terrain feeling for anything that would raise an alarm, perhaps to get a better lay of the land. If anything he might at least consider this as a first watch.

"It's been awhile since we've had a true moment to ourselves, a moment like we had on Dantooine. How have you been? How goes your reintegration? I'm sorry - if you'd rather not talk, I understand."

@GABA

 

[Eivor Vivas]

Eivor's body shivered as Bruce scooted closer to the redhead, wrapping an arm around her and jesting about being close. Evee smiled as she warmed her hands near the fire, once they were heated she placed them on her cheeks warming them enough to leave her fingers like ice again. "It's been a while since I have been in such a cold climate." she chuckled, the girl's voice echoing against the cave's walls, "I would take the sweltering heat over this." she joked thinking about a couple of systems she would rather be on instead of here. She fell quiet for a moment as she warmed, the temperature finally becoming tolerable in the cave.

Bruce spoke up again, inquiring about her training, he was right they had not seen one another since Dantooine, much of her travels kept her away from Jedha and Bruce wasn't one who stuck around inside the walls of the temple. There was much that had happened, she wasn't sure where to begin.

"I guess it's going well, its been a lot of hard work, Master Bruce, I don't think I do well all the time, but I'm trying. However..." she reached into the folds of her clothing and pulled out a silver hilt, "I did build my saber." she smiled, handing it to him for him to see. She knew he would have wanted to know as soon as he could and she was almost beaming that she had completed the task successfully.

"It was a lot easier than I had thought, and everything about it just felt...right." she explained letting him examine it. "I hope the council comes around when the time comes." Eivor thought for a moment about who was left on the council and wondered if anyone else would be still present. She also had the habit of comparing herself to other Knights and Masters in the Order and at times it seemed like an impossible task. However, the girl had to keep reminder herself of how different her path was from the others.

She pulled out the comm and fiddled with the channels, trying again to get a signal, even though the girl knew that her efforts would be fruitless. She glanced at the darkening sky and sighed. "Hopefully this settles soon. I don't like waiting."

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

Bruce inhaled deeply, holding for a moment and releasing. He had been successful, he had brought a meditation on and things began to develop naturally within his body. Sustaining his heart and temperature, he could hear in the distance the sounds of water droplets separating themselves from their icy havens and to the tiny ponds below forming with each and every drop.

He smiled at the thought of sweltering heat, perhaps he'd have to offer a silly statement? Offer up a vacation? Ah, vacations were something of a rarity now. He often asked himself if life would ever return to normal... but what was normal anyways? This was normal and there was no deny it. The definition of normal is every changing and Bruce knew it, the galaxy around him had developed as it had and that would become the new norm while the past became nothing but a shadow. Sadness could stem from that statement, many had lost critical aspects of their normality - fortunately, Bruce had been saved from that; but for how long?

Master Guleya listened to the tales of the young Evee as she described her training as hard work and how she had been trying really hard to advance herself. This made him happy, although he didn't show it as she spoke - but then she caught him off guard; it really shouldn't have but she did promise him she'd let him know about her lightsaber accomplishment, but he hadn't heard anything until today. A sign of the times he acknowledged silently.

As Eivor revealed her lightsaber hilt, Bruce maintained his meditation - eyes closed. He knew it was a saber by the familiar feeling, the silent echos. He used the Force to gently free it from Eivor's hands, which was simply as he knew she was presenting it to him; she wanted him to join in her excitement of this accomplishment - and he was thrilled to be able to. He brought the hilt before him, allowing it to suspend itself horizontally in the air in front of him, he handled the lightsaber with the Force like it was a delicate flower, a precious gem. He twirled it around before turning it vertical twisting it again, this would have looked odd to any outsider as he never once opened his eyes; he was examining the internals and feeling the connection within the hilt - that would be the only way to truly appreciate the craftsmanship of an exotic weapon. Any outsider would simply marvel at the hilt and it's outward appearance and the brilliant glow when ignited.

The hilt was brilliant. He was proud of this accomplishment of Eivor's, it was almost like he crafted it - but that wasn't true and was far from the truth; but it did bring him a flood of memories from when he had crafted his own. He could not contain the excitement, there was no mistaken it - he was beaming and Evee would see that brilliant smile in the warm glow of the fire before them. In do time he would see her colour, but for now that was irrelevant. Once satisfied, he gently pushed the hilt before his friend, he let it hover in the air in front of her allowing her to reclaim it.

"I am without a doubt, ecstatic for you Eivor. You're wonderful. Truly."

He listened quietly to her as she described her assessment of the lightsaber construction, how it was easy for her and that it all had felt right. That was exactly how you knew it was time, and that's the Force's way of telling a Jedi that they were ready to mark off a milestone. The innards of a lightsaber were so delicate and one wrong twist or connection could mark catastrophic failure, you had to be careful when it was time to do that. Some could manufacture a saber hilt with tools, others chose to manufacture with the Force - Bruce fell into the latter.

By now, their temporary shelter was complete. The temperature of their lodgings had reached the most acceptable of levels and when he knew things had fully developed, he eased off of his efforts to maintain himself in the cold; that was no longer needed, but ever the Jedi he still held onto a meditation; but he laughed when he heard the beeping sounds of a commlink.

"Ah, Evee. Come my young apprentice." He did it again, he called her his apprentice, he really needed to stop doing that. "I see you haven't changed since that day, well at least not in this single category. Patience my dear, patience. You must always have patience for when a fool rushes in, a fool is met with a foolish demise, no matter how strong they think they are; and while I do no doubt you in the slightest my dear - you are not exempt from that statement.

"Just as I say you need patience to protect yourself, you need patience to win great battles. You didn't rush to craft that hilt of yours, had you done so you could have been faced with a defeat. A defeat that might lead you to hardships and being upset, perhaps a judgement case upon yourself. An empire cannot last forever, and even the smallest of groups could topple the mightiest of empires, if they wait. Wait for intel, wait for a vulnerability, wait for the right moment to strike... you'll be awarded with minimal hardships, minimal casualties. No method of wound care can be instant, no method of healing is instant. The Exiles - the practitioners of the Dark Side... the Sith, whatever they want to call themselves, they cannot tend as they think they can. While the dark side might give you an instant relief, and instant gratification, it is improper and will only be temporary and the act will need to be repeated again and again, worse and worse each time.

"Those who seek power seek just that, instant power. Unlimited power. And while they may be able to weave and handle such a strength, well it is only temporary and the body, the mind, the soul will all remind you of that day in and day out. Dig deeper, and fall deeper. Andraste herself is mighty, but it will not last - the further she digs, the deeper she goes the worse it will become for her. No one is invincible my darling.

"In lightsaber combat, while I am not an expert in the field, I can say without hesitation that everyone has a flaw and everyone has a weakness. Even the mightiest duelist, wait long enough and it shall reveal itself in the duel.

"In the arts, the ways, do you think I was able to accomplish my abilities by simply doing? Do you think I was able to just heal the meanest and harshest or bloodiest of wounds in a matter of a day? Each application, each assimilation of knowledge, each witness is always an opportunity to learn and each and every time you are able to find that connection and strengthen it, bolstering a resolve.

"Time. Time is an invaluable thing."

The Jedi Master spoke with purpose, he allowed the knowledge to consume his speech. When offered a chance to teach or learn he often stopped thinking and it just all came naturally to him. But the question remained, why did he do this? Was it just a passion for sharing or was it something more? Today he hadn't expected to do this - lecture. He had expected to spend some time with a friend and chase a lead or two... but he also didn't expect to have to spend a night in a cavern do to a downed shuttle, trapped by a storm.

 

[Eivor Vivas]

The saber floated back to Evee and she let it drop into her palm while Bruce continued to speak; she should have known he would have something to say about her being impatient, but she was relieved it wasn't a chastising, instead he took it as opportunity for a lesson. She prepared herself for things she had heard much before, but listened to what Bruce had to say. He was right and she knew the value of waiting, even if it seemed to be a running joke within the Order to just wait. However, she very well knew waiting wasn't useless, if used correctly, time would be in their favor, but it needed to be used wisely. It wasn't expendable, though now as they sit in a cave, Eivor thought it was just that. The storm continued to rage on outside and Evee couldn't help to let out a long sigh, "Its invaluable and we're stuck in a cave." she frowned, glancing back at the cave's entrance.

Snow continued to blow, some of the flakes swirled just inside, but quickly melted in the heat of the flames from the fire. Evee adjusted her pack and scooted back some from the fire, laying down on her side, the glow of the flames reflecting brightly in her eyes. "Though sometimes, sleeping helps time move a little faster." she said yawning and closing her eyes. She breathed in deeply and let out a long sigh, relaxing as she was certain they would remain relatively undisturbed for the remainder of the night.

_________​

It wasn't uncommon for Eivor to awake suddenly, in a cold sweat, startled by something only alive in the memories of her dreams, however, like this morning, she woke calmly, as though she had only closed her eyes for only a moment and to reopen them to see time had undoubtedly passed. Eivor sat up, her red hair twisted and bent, reflecting which side she had slept on as she reached up to try to flatten it. The storm had calmed and the sun shone brightly, reflecting off the white snow that had drifted in the mouth of the cave.

Still sleep in her eyes, it took her a moment to recall why they were in a cave, but when her thoughts sped up her eyes widened with anticipation as she turned look at Bruce.

"Storm has stopped! Lets get out of here!" she said happily pull out the comm and begun to test the channels, though there was still nothing. The girl frowned and pocketed the device before she started to collect things they would still need. "If we get out from under this stone, we may get a better signal."

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

Bruce smiled at the young red headed Jedi as she yawned and declared her intentions. He nodded in agreement as she closed her eyes to call it a night. She might have been upset about the irony of his statement about invaluable time, but there was a hidden solution - but it wasn't meant to be a lesson or anything; what to do when you're stuck? Maximize time by meditation, and that's just what he planned on doing. He looked into the fire, almost to get lost in it as his companion would drift off. He was no master of pyrokinetics like some of the Jedi, but he had basic understanding of science and an advanced control of the Force; he just wanted to ensure they'd have warmth and a steadily burning fire - so that is what he did for the moment, he used the energies to prevent it this moment from fading too far before adding whatever rubbish he could find to fuel it. He only spent a mere moment on the fire before looking to the future.

While Eivor slept, he'd maintain a silent vigil for the two; the red haired Jedi was much stronger than the Bardottan Jedi, but that wouldn't stop him from maintaining his vigil. The Bardottan would latch onto the energies around him and bring himself into a trance to conserve energy and watch the immediate surroundings. With a steady heartbeat he'd sit monitoring counting every beat, every thud and every thump. 1...2...3...4… and the world was gone, a vast ocean before him and a simple drop causing ripples in the Force to wrap their cave. This was peace. Could he maintain awake? Well this would be the test, but he admitted to himself - trances were nothing foreign to him.

---------


The night would progress, the fire would slowly dim away leaving embers in its wake. The human Jedi seemed to find peace in her sleep while the Bardottan simply lost track of time. The Jedi had kept a trickle of a connection with his companion, enough so that he always knew she was there and that she posted no danger to him and no danger would come to her - although he was certain she would have discovered that long before danger came knocking. This whole experience was a lesson to the suarin Jedi Master, for every meditation and application the master became stronger and more adept at certain techniques… Jedis were always training or practice - or at least this one made a habit of it. The Jedi’s studies only interrupt by the sudden deceleration of his young companion… or maybe it was actually his sleep. Bruce's lips twisted into a subtle smile as he returned to the waking world.


“No sooner is the beast frenzied does it calm to the gentle beast, that is the way of nature.” The Master really didn't know what just broke free from his mouth. “Yes yes, we shall get on with it. You're so eager Eivor! It's actually kind of fun to see - one of the things I've come to appreciate”


The Bardottan got to his feet slowly and shook his head up a bit to clear it and act as a method to wake home and spark his consciousness. He doubled checked the fire had dwindled to nothing, not even a spark before he gathered what little he had, a strack contrast to his friend, where she rushed onward he simply moseyed out of the cave. The wall of cold hit him the moment he was exposed to the sun, the mountain air was crisp and cool, simply refreshing; but low and behold, the sites were undeniably postcard. Simply gorgeous.


While the red head rushed off trying to get a single, the Bardottan simply stopped in his tracks before shifting his attention to the mountain ranges. The world blanketed in a fresh layer of snow, nothing had disturb it, except the wind that had take the time to craft the pretty and unique snow drifts. Like every snowflake, the mountains and the drifts all had a uniqueness and character - despite the similarities on the surface.


“Look at it Eevee. Just take a moment, pull your head out of the comm dear. Take a look around you and tell me what you see.” Bruce would listen to his partner before continuing, “A land untouched, a peace in an ever troubling and turbulent time. The life of the planet is all there and the world has shaped it so. To see this, you forget what is happening but you're always reminded of what we do - what we strive for. Thousands of worlds were once like this before collapsing and some day, perhaps we will see it again.”


“I am reminded of our academy, Telos. I am reminded of our temples; past, current, futures. I am reminded of such losses, such blows. Such a time. Long lost, but never forgotten.” The Master spoke softly, a note of remorse. The Jedi Master always took a death as a heavy burden, to take the time to recall and reminisce often returned that to him. He was a mere mortal, he would be allowed such a private moment.


As the Jedi Master took his moment, but only for a very glimmer of a time - it would be easily disrupted when Eivor’s comm provided a soft beep. Bruce turned his head to look upon the girl, the comm in her hands. He was eager to hear the message.

@GABA

 

[Eivor Vivas]

Eivor seemed to be on a one track mind frame as she scanned through the different signals in her comm device seeing if there was one that would pick up. Unfortunately, the ship would be of no use, with the extreme cold, she was certain getting it up and going again would prove to be a lost effort. Continuing to scan through, Evee paused when Bruce spoke to her and she let out a long exhale, her warm breath condensing in the cold mountain air.

She squinted in the sunlight that reflected off the freshly fallen snow and frowned as he asked her what she saw. "Avalanche potential..." she frowned and glanced at Bruce, knowing that wasn't what he was probably going to lecture her about and she was right as he continued, explaining its beauty and in a way was able to relate it to what was happening in the galaxy. She sighed, he was right and she nodded as he added more, the reminders he had of Telos and the losses they have faced and Evee felt her heart sink in the tragedies that resulted from those battles.

"Temples will rise and fall, we mustn't get attached to them, right?" she raised her eyebrows, "However, as long as we carry the hope of the Light of the Force and others see the hope as well, then it will never perish." Evee breathed in again and seemed now more calm, focused, she wasn't sure how he did it, but he seemed to manage to pull her back to the present every time.

Evee pocketed her comm and rubbed her hands together to warm them up. She pulled on the Force, letting it flow gently through her, warming her from the core as she could feel her nose begin to go numb from the cold. Bruce would be able to see her cheeks and the tip of her nose quickly brightening red, "Lets keep moving and see if we can't get to the foot of the mountain..." she closed her eyes and focused for a moment, drawing her attention to see if there were any signs of life nearby, but it all seemed distant, though the feeling she had, to head downward, seemed to be feel the best in regards to their options.

"Bottom of the hill..." she nodded in her own approval glancing at Bruce and begun stepping widely in the fresh packed snow.

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

"Yes they will, but with the fall of the temples, so does our records and our knowledge. True, old coots like me have a bunch of knowledge wrapped up inside our heads - but we won't always be here to ensure that knowledge gets passed on correctly in it's entirety." A grim thought but also a very real thought. He thought he must get boring or annoying the way he goes on his tangents - or at least he though Eivor might think as much. "While hope can always prove to be the most powerful of things, allow for many harsh barriers to be overcome, hope can be severed with careful consideration and planning. But one thing is certain, for as long as I draw breath and even beyond - I'll keep attempting to make that smoldering hope erupted to a potent fire."

"A fire, like your face and hair." Bruce remarked with a smile as he noted the reddening of her cheeks and nose. "Easy dear, dial it back a fraction you don't want to over heat everything. The body is a forgiving thing, but it doesn't like to endure rapid changes from cold to hot and hot to cold in a matter of moments. You've got the talent my fiery Jedi Knight, but you need to work on a bit of the control."

As Eivor motioned and suggested they continued on, Bruce merely nodded. Eivor had become so much better than she was the day he met her, he had grown very much linked to her since their adventures within the kyber crystal cave. While Bruce no doubt felt that there was something between the two of them, he wasn't sure if Eivor had felt it as well. Going into a deposit with such rich Force Energies, the living crystals had a funny way of acting - it was a possibility that while they spent as much time in that cave on Dantoonie that the living crystals wanted the two of these to support one another and to count on each other; forever more or just for a single purpose? There was no understanding the crystals in perfect clarity, they'd just have to let it flow as natural as it should... but Bruce couldn't help but to wonder what purpose the crystals had for them, it was exciting.

They descended down the foot hills as she had suggested, Bruce happy to be in her company. As Bruce walked, admiring the surrounding scenery and enjoying the ebb and flow of the energies that bind, he was unable to notice each and every pitfall, the snow dense enough. As such he tripped and stumbled sliding down the mountain side, he speeds accelerating and before he knew it, the tobogganing experience he had endured resulted in him hitting the ground with a thud as he got swallowed up by a small cave mouth. Bruce actually laughed at the whole thing before standing himself up; it wasn't a deep fall and he'd be able to quickly correct the fault with ease. With a simple motion he leapt out of the hole he found himself in, landing rather awkwardly up top beside the red-headed knight before intentionally falling over into the snow. "Jedi are not immune to clumsiness." Bruce said with a smirk, but as he spoke to the young girl he was subtly crafting a small snowball which he hurled at the woman playfully, he rose to his feet taking whatever punishment the young woman had for him, he did so with a laugh.

It was just after this moment did he catch in his vision, they were close to a village of sorts. The hole he fell in must have been a hole crafted by the natives for a means to hunt or gather. This caught the Jedi Masters attention, he quickly suggested to the woman that the find shelter and survey the village before simply wandering in with little care. Nobody could say for certain if they'd be friendly or hostile.

@GABA

 

[Eivor Vivas]

Eivor could disagree with the Jedi Master, but decided against it as he continued, warning her not to get too rambunctious with warming her body in order to avoid exhaustion. She certainly did not like the cold, but he was right and she relaxed, her jaw unclenched as she did her best to just accept that she was going to be cold. The temperate plains and being kicked by sheep on Dantooine seemed more desirable than this and she could help but to let out a long defeating sigh letting Bruce know she was reluctantly going to listen to him regardless. She respected the Master greatly, he was genuine since she had first met him, not letting the girl having to worry if he was going to turn cheek the moment she turned her back. He was eager to see her progress, patient with her energy, and Evee felt she didn't need to act like anyone else except herself.

However, as they descended, Bruce seemed unfamiliar with the terrain and was quickly championed by the mountain side, tumbling dangerously as Eivor watched, the Force quickly pulled as she tried to keep him in her grasp, but luckily soft pact snow stopped his fall. Evee made double time down the mountain side, more careful not to succumb to less desirable fate as Bruce seemed to luck out. He popped up from the hole as she climbed on top of jagged stone that rose from the mountain side's surface; he seemed in good spirits as he gave a smirk about being clumsy. The redhead's heart was still thumping in her throat as she took in a deep breath of the cold air, suppressing a cough, "No, but it could have been a lot worse..." she said frowning, unable to find humor in the moment; she climbed down from the rock, but felt her senses warn her to step to the side as the snowball flew past her shoulder.

Realizing what was happening she turned around quickly with a "Hey!" and a serious scowl that lasted only for a second before she broke out into a laugh, but Bruce detected something, motioning her to join next to him. Moving to his side, Eivor quickly lowered closer to the ground as she saw what Bruce saw. She frowned uncertain of what to make of the village, she didn't feel anything out of sorts in the Force, but then again, there was a good chance, no one knew they were present.

"It looks very isolated..." she observed quietly, glancing to the Jedi Master.

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

It was true, the fall and tumble could have been a lot worse and Bruce knew that. Perhaps his intentional jump-stumble to get out of the pit was a silly thing to do - but the actual fall wasn't planned.


As Bruce hurled the snowball at his companion, he wasn't the least bit surprised she was able to sense the impending snow bomb coming at her, but it still brought joy to him to see and hear her laugh. Jedi are far too serious most of the time! There needs to be room for some laughter and fun in these times of harshness - and that is what he often intended to remind his friends about; no matter how far they go.


As the two of the Jedi crouched in hiding and monitored the village below, Bruce continued to reach with the Force, though it was clouded considering they weren't exactly a stone throws away from the inner frosted walls. He needed to get closer in order to properly assess the village, after indicating to his companion that he intended on getting closer he broke clear of their hiding space. With a soft step, Bruce descended downward for a few more meters, using only his natural abilities. With his descent complete, he was able physically see the village over it's defensive perimeter - he saw several shuttles in what could be considered as dry docked and it was clear the people were working on the simple shuttles and appeared to be making significant progress, progress recognized as brilliant technicians. But as a Jedi, Bruce knew that you needed to be able to see beyond the eye and into the world; as he lapped the world with the invisible energies that were the Force, he could feel no hostility.


Even more, as he looked over the village below, it was clear it wasn't a village that had existed for more than a few years. These were all first generation, but it was curious as to why they were here on a planet that appeared to be devoid of life. Was it possible they were hiding? Perhaps they knew of a secret or two within these vast mountains? Or something more? Truly, there was no way to tell anything really, not without asking and approaching - so that's exactly what he thought they should do.


The Bardottan Jedi Master climbed back up to his companion, this time however he didn't put too much effort into concealing his movements, perhaps it was just misguided confidence, or just compliances, either way it would prove to be a low risk situation which would be proven simply by how easy it was for him to find himself beside his friend, unaware of her activities while he was down below. The saurian sat himself near his human friend before he began speaking “These people are not primitive nor are they natives. They've plenty of tech within their walls but I couldn't really feel them as a threat - but really they're not engaged. As for a species, I don't know I could see or tell to be honest - humans I believe. I'm not sure their role either… but, there is one way to find out. We walk up and ask them.” That was quite uncharacteristic of him, but it's what he had.


Not a moment later did he raise to his feet and begin his descent back down the mountainside but this time looking for the entrance; it wasn't hard to locate as there were two towers pushing up from the land indicating an entry point. This was a village designed for defense, most likely from the natural predators of the land - perhaps rivals? It was unclear and Bruce was taking a large risk, the village folk would certainly see him walking toward them this time as he made little effort to conceal himself. It was obvious that he was now in their rifle sights. Bruce inhaled deeply before continuing to face them head on in a non-threatening manner. Soon he'd arrive, with a friend maybe.


The Jedi was stopped by a man wrapped in animal furs with a hulking frame, asking for their business and Bruce wouldn't lie, he had seen the village from a far and wanted to investigate and search for aid due to his unfortunate incident atop the mountains, there was a sincerity obviously, and the man told the Jedi to follow him to who might better offer the help he sought. Bruce had no weapons, that was clear, at least not visibly so. But Bruce did have his saber hilt stashed away within the folds of his weather cloak and the strongest weapon of all at his back, the Force.


He'd be escorted through the courtyard to a large structure in the middle of the village, it was there he'd get a chance to speak with the leader to these people. It was there his chapter might begin, at least for this planet. But before arriving he'd have to see, many members of this enclave were not well and they'd need medical attention - be it wounds most physical, shattered minds or fractured spirits. Various races were here, rodian, bothan, twi'lek and humans for sure and, he couldn't help everyone but the weight of those in need would present themselves to his shoulders.


Bruce would need to take a deep breath before he could ask for help. In fact, the Jedi Bardottan, was to lost with the simple illnesses - he wanted for forego all of this and immediately help those and need, but he was struggle for the moment to focus. He would be able to attend the ones in need, just not yet.


Bruce wasn't afraid to admit to himself today, he needed his human friend, the former Exile turned Jedi of the light. It was Eivor's time to bring her Jedi Master friend back to reality, to get the conversation initiated as they were told to enter the central structure. Bruce remained frozen as he looked around at the few who were ill - perhaps it was just an outbreak of sorts and not the victims of an assault, he needed to check it out before they'd leave this planet.

 

[Eivor Vivas]

After she spoke, Bruce took the initiative and started down to the village. Evee was surprised and she wanted to yell out for him to return but did not in case the villagers were hostile, however, she would keep an eye on him, watching as he accessed the village. Her eyes narrowed as she studied, her senses reaching out as she gathered what she could using the Force. Bruce returned though, moving a bit more casually than earlier as he informed her of what he had found.

“That is my least favorite….” She mumbled implying she did not like asking what they were doing, especially given this was probably their home and they were the strangers present. She followed Bruce though, trusting his judgement as they both entered the village. They were approached by a large human, who looked significantly more comfortable in the cold than she was feeling. Eivor kept quiet as she followed; they were escorted across the courtyard to a building in the middle of the village.

Her eyes drifted to others who had come to see there guests and noted how some where injured; she thought it was odd, the area was pretty isolated and she wondered if they were hiding from something or someone. Eivor beside Bruce and gave him a reassuring glance that he knew what needed to be done. She trusted in him because he trusted in the Force.

@Zigara

 

[Bruce Guleya]

Bruce entered the larger structure they'd be lead to in order to meet what he assumed to be the leader of this band of isolated villagers. He wasn't sure what he was going to get himself into, but the Force hadn't let him down yet and he suspected it would start now. The halls were adorned with various animal furs and culturally distinctive artworks and sculptures from various races across the galaxy, it was obvious what the intent behind was: unity. They'd arrive at another set of doors and through them was a small chamber of government. There a half Moon shaped table before them with chairs rounding it out - one slightly more decorative one was in the center of the room, all of the chairs were empty though and Bruce was confused for the moment, if they'd be expected why was it empty? But he wouldn't have to wait long to understand, a single door opened on the side of the room and soon the two would be joined by a Kaleesh donning an ornate cloak made of fur and attire reminiscent of formal wear.


“Come in friends, have a seat.” The Kaleesh rasped, “Welcome to Frost Top Village, my name is Nim Kazier, I am the village head, but I'm an engineer by profession.” The Kaleesh walked over to the head table and took a seat looking at his guests, “Tell me - what brings the Jedi to my doorstep?”


Bruce's ears perked up, the man knew they were Jedi? How was it possible was it the clothes? His lightsaber? He had hidden it away and he thought he was wearing by a simple attire nothing of distinguishing markings. But then it became clear, the Force was vibrating softly around the man, a sight and feeling Bruce was certainly familiar with. The man was sensitive. This resulted in Bruce becoming a bit more relaxed, as he took a seat near the leader. “Thank you for the hospitality. We had been kind of scouting the planet when our shuttle had some malfunctions and we crash landed further up the mountain. We had no signal so when the storm of last night subsided we went exploring - and I stumbled on your humble home.” The Bardottan was forthcoming, there was no need for a level of secrecy, honest was a best policy. “We were seeking out potential homes, resources and or knowledge to be discovered. But, I never expected to find an already standing village.”


Nim would have smiled but the Kaleesh weren't exactly known for their facial expressions. “Well then, I guess we are successful in hiding our tracks. Well alien, your story isn't a unique story, you're a member of a recurring theme with the snow storms here in the mountains. I'm sorry to see this happen to you, but it has and I believe we can help you. The people here have a few good talents and we'd be happy to help… but I can't just do it for free.” The village head took a moment to let the words process, “But we don't want money. I'm sure you've seen the situation outside and I'm willing to bargain for medical supplies, or medical treatment rather. I need you to do some chores around here - or you can take your chances out there.”


Bruce shook his head, he understood what was being asked and he couldn't help but to immediately provide his own services as a healer to tend to the ill in the camp. He was compelled to do so as well, that was his nature and it wasn't going to chance in the slightest. “I've talents in healing. There's no secret, you've already revealed our paths, and I know you share it.” Bruce smiled, and Nim was happy to accept this kind of aid - it was more than he'd have asked for. “My companion here also has her own abilities and I'm sure she would be happy to assist… as long as it's not herding some wooly creatures.” Bruce chuckled, of course he wasn't voluntelling Eivor but he thought she might join in, but her skills were her own and he would never force her to do something she wasn't comfortable with or unsuited for; she'd get to pick her own choices.

* * * * * * * ​

Time would pass. Days longer than they had planned to stay, but in the end it was necessary. Bruce was feeling exhausted with all he had done, constantly on the prowl and constantly at the ready, and even when the job was done and ready for the two Jedis to depart, Bruce insisted on staying a bit longer to really make their mark. The Jedi needed more positive images in the galaxy and Bruce wanted to push for it even if Eivor had protested. Over the next couple of days, the Bardottan Jedi Master felt he had accomplished the positive relationship building between the Jedi and the village. But the day of departure, Bruce wanted to talk to the village head once more, but in private.


“Nim, you and your people don't need to stay here. We can probably find you a much more hospitable place instead of the mountains and we could work together.” Bruce explained.
“No friend, we are comfortable here and we've done what we have set out to do. This has been home for half a decade now and we're going to make things more permanent.” The Kaleesh replied joyfully.
“I understand, but have my contact information should things change… but of course I am happy to simply chat and will never press the issue.”


The two said their final farewells as the Bardottan and the human returned to their shuttle which had been brought down from the crash site bit by bit and repaired here. Bruce was sad to see the day come to an end, but also excited… and true to his companion’s previous statement, Bruce bowed down to the red haired Jedi and allowed her to fly the final departure.


It had been sometime, Bruce wasn't sure of he'd ever hear from the group again but it didn't matter. He had done a good deed and made sure to tend to as much as he could… even if it was daunting. Bruce was going to need a couple days rest and probably some meditation to recuperate.


He looked over to Eivor, he has grown fond of her. She was a true friend and he was happy to have been able to take on this journey with her and was thrilled she had wanted his company and had allowed him into her life a little bit more. He smiled at the girl in the seat, “Thank you Eivor. Thank you.”

@GABA

/End Thread