Chapter Seven: Parting
Kreia walked out to the landing pad, her senses telling her that the repulsorlifts of the ship were warming up, and that the main drive was on standby in preparation for launch. The captain also stood on the pad, impatiently awaiting his passengers, but he avoided the cloaked figure of the Jedi Master. She felt his fear, his anxiety, and marveled at how much beings like him trusted the Jedi, yet feared the power they wielded. She ignored his fear, but shared his impatience, as she was waiting on the passengers too.
Revan and Malak emerged from the Enclave, receiving some last minute instructions from Master Haan regarding their assignment. Though reprimanded for their loss of control with the little girl's attackers, the gratitude of the local settlers had prevented any meaningful punishment from the Council, and the two Knights were chosen to visit Juurok and inspect the damage the Mandalorians had wrought, then report to the High Council. They bowed to the Weapon Master and turned toward the starship. Kreia stepped out to meet them as they were about to board.
"I want to speak with you Revan," she said without preamble.
"Yes Master, of course. Malak, tell the captain I'll be aboard momentarily." Malak nodded, bowed at Kreia, then turned and strode up the ramp with the ship's captain.
"Revan, you are no longer my apprentice, but I wish to impart one last lesson to you before you go. I forsee it will be a long time before we meet again, and the circumstances may be much different." The blind Jedi turned and ushered Revan to the edge of the landing pad. She could sense the calm in him, and felt his serenity that prepared him for his mission. Yet, like all who are blind, she had senses that were sharpened to compensate for her atrophied eyes. She was intimately familiar with the currents of the Force, its swirls and eddies, its voices and echoes. Deep within her protegee, she felt the echoes of the anger that he had awakened in himself. She knew he would always do what he thought was right, but she worried about what he would sacrifice to do it.
"The Force is strong with you Revan, but be cautious. Anger and agression lead to the Dark Side. We are guardians of justice and peace, not the executors. I feel your compassion, your feelings. Embrace them, but be wary of them. If they overmatch you, can you pay the price that their control over you will demand? Once you start down the path to darkness, it is almost impossible to return. I have seen it done only once, when I was young."
Revan nodded gravely, hearing her every word. "You have taught me well, Master, and I will remember. I know I have disappointed you with my impetuousity, and I am sorry. I will control my passions and follow the light. May the Force be with you."
"May the Force be with you, young Revan." The young Jedi bowed, and turned toward the ship. Kreia remained at the edge of the landing pad long after the ship was gone, feeling the currents, listening for echoes.