Chapter 2
The next day
I quickened my pace then, realizing that I was getting distracted by gazing at the enormous walls outside the Jedi temple. The temple was a vast, circular building that rose clearly over the tops of tall pines and knotted oaks. Its walls were assaulted by ivy; none of the stone slabs underneath could be seen under that tangled web. The temple's round glass dome was mirroring the sun's bright rays. I had always thought that if a legion of Rogues were to attack Myuondo, this place would stick out like a womprat in the midst of rancors.
Jogging up the temple stairs and trying to ignore my ankle, I entered through the massive marble doors that led to a large hall. Solemn-looking Jedi Masters were carefully striding along with silent steps. Very unlike their Masters, young Padawans, most of them humans like me, were chatting with each other, showing off their polished lightsabers, and quickly running away to be able to catch up with their Masters.
I turned right, searching for the chamber that I knew Master Kardu was in. I found it with little difficulty, considering that I had gone there at least a thousand times before. The door to the chamber was open a crack, as if it didn't get closed all the way. I could hear shouts from outside. I knew the voice; Theirra was the one that was shouting. Then came a gentler voice; it was Master Kardu. I could hear their conversation:
"-your time will come." Kardu was saying.
"But, Master Kardu, I'm so experienced! You know that. So why do you hold me back?"
"I have my reasons. Did you ever consider the fact that you're not the only one who is going to become a Jedi Knight? U'tlei and Kamesh are close as well."
"Well," Theirra paused, "Kamesh may be ready, but U'tlei...she needs refining."
"Oh? And why do you say that?"
"She was not successful during our mission yesterday."
"I see…Theirra, why don't you work on your meditation now?"
"Yes, Master Kardu." If I knew Theirra, she would be grinding her teeth right about now.
I heard the shuffling of feet. I scurried around a pillar to hide. I saw Theirra push open the door, followed by Master Kardu. I watched as Theirra stomped away, leaving Master Kardu by the door. Once Theirra was out of sight, Master Kardu, almost expectantly, said:
"U'tlei?"
Coming out from behind the pillar, my hazel eyes met Kardu's calm, grey ones.
"Yes, Master?"
"Come with me."
Master Kardu turned around and re-entered his chamber. I silently followed him, wondering what I was in for.
Seating myself across from Master Kardu, I waited patiently for him to speak. Five minutes went by, and no words were forthcoming. Kardu just sat, his legs crossed as he examined his lightsaber. After what seemed ages, Kardu spoke.
"What is troubling you, U'tlei?"
"Well, Master, as Theirra said, I failed our mission yesterday. I feel as though I am not as experienced as Theirra or Kamesh, because I have been beaten by them so many times. Maybe Theirra was right…" My gaze dropped to the floor.
"Don't say that, U'tlei. Theirra may be right about some things, but not that. I know that you are a great Jedi; I have seen you." My eyes went back to Kardu's, and he was gazing at me with fatherly affection. I almost wish he was my father, I thought.
Kardu spoke again, this time, it was a commanding voice. "What you need is more training under my supervision. You shall start tomorrow."
"Tomorrow…Master?" I asked.
Kardu raised his dark eyebrows. "Yes. Do you find that surprising? I know you need to be training with me immediately, so why not start tomorrow?"
"All right, I mean, yes, Master Kardu." As I walked out of the chamber, Master Kardu added,
"I know you will do well with me."