Revealing the secret builds trust.
Quarrel! After meeting near the Jedi Temple, Santal and her aunt's paths diverge in opposite directions. In an attempt to resolve the conflict, the girl manages to help the oncoming woman Rana Martez, and then return to continue her studies at the Jedi Temple. The story continues.
Over the past week since that day, Santal got to know all the members of the clan better. Dasha, as an inborn empath, was able to feel emotions from childhood, at least basic ones. Nick is cheerful, constantly smiling and can amuse those who are sad. Grace loves to laugh. Landa is strict, obedient and obedient to her elders. Just like me, Santal thought.
Almost nothing can be said about the rest, because I rarely had contact. From conversations it became clear that many really do not remember practically anything. Because of this, the girl even felt sorry for her peers. Because they weren't as lucky as she was. She knows a lot about her parents now. Exactly! She can look for information about them in the library, or, as she managed to christen her, "The Main Branch of Paradise." Of course, she had many favorite places in the Temple, but the library is definitely in the first place.
Santal studied the schedule thoroughly. I also asked the curator about the youngling's life. Some facts she already knew, and some frightened.
So, Santal already knew that the morning began with a study of the Force, then the children went to classrooms for a lesson in politics, as well as the history of many worlds and cultures. After lunch, the clans began physical education, acquiring the necessary skills and reflexes. In addition to theory, the Younglings had to find time for five daily meditations. Each clan began their training with the study of the Jedi Code and three important disciplines: Strength, Knowledge, and Self-Control. It was these foundations that became the foundation for further development. In addition to the required course materials, each youngling received a copy of The Jedi Path: A Manual for Students of the Force. Students had to know the layout of the Temple by heart, as well as the names and history of the Jedi who had memorials in the Temple, so as not to forget their history and become better acquainted with the traditions and philosophy of the Order.
The children studied and practiced together, which made them very close and learned to trust. Younglings often helped each other and followed an example from a comrade. While comprehending the Force and its capabilities, they simultaneously learned self-control, which was an important step on the path to mastery. Before starting to comprehend the art of lightsaber fencing, children had to prove themselves in other areas, otherwise they will not progress in the possession of weapons. In the third discipline (self-control), younglings were taught for the first time more sophisticated meditation techniques that helped keep their minds under control during battle. After mastering the six levels of lightsaber combat, they were challenged. Refusal was not accepted. If the child did not pass the tests, then he could repeat them.
Youngling was either making progress or abandoning the path of the Jedi.
The tests were scheduled when the younglings were undergoing initial training at the academy. They consisted of three main tests: demonstration of knowledge of the Code, meditation, mastery of the lightsaber, and control of the Force. All junior Jedi were required to pass the exam, but not all passed the test. If in the future the younglings were not taken as Padawans, then the Council assigned the child to one of the Service Corps, where he would perform the tasks of the Order, which did not require skills in using a lightsaber and the Force. There was a third option for the Younglings, which the High Council deemed unsuitable for the Jedi path. Such children could leave the Order and use their skills to find a good place in the galaxy.
The last girl, to put it mildly, scared. And it gave rise to many questions and thoughts. What if it doesn't work? No, though. There is an answer to this question. But it doesn't make it any easier. It turns out that if Santal fails, then Corpus or a return to her aunt is waiting for her. Neither the first nor the second
perspective seduced her. The girl more or less imagined her fate in case of returning to Ryloth. But my aunt wanted to be away from her. Or maybe she was joking? Or maybe not? If not, what should she do? Become like the Evil Hat? Could she do that? Santal did not know the answer to the question, because she considered what he was doing, impossible for her, beyond understanding. Santal just didn't understand how one could be so cruel. And if you imagine that she was expelled from the Order, would she be able to find him? Ask to take to yourself? Make friends? Although the girl did not understand the meaning of the word "friendship" well. But maybe he will teach her something. Although no, I have already taught.
Then a strange thought occurred to the girl. And if this uncle is an inanimate creature? A droid who pulled on someone else's skin so as not to frighten others? Maybe. So Santal decided to find this blue. Anyway. Either for training or revenge. All the same, there is nowhere else to go.
Стоит отметить, что, despite good relations with the Younglings, Santal did not become very close to anyone. She politely communicated with everyone, if someone asked for help, tried to help, and the classmates themselves helped her out more than once and invited her to play. But Santal kept the other children at a distance. Adults, strangers, were still afraid like the plague. But with the Jedi it was just the opposite. Santal was always looking for the company of her elders and enjoyed communicating with them. So she once met the Twi'lek Jedi Anun Bondara. In principle, Santal liked to communicate more with Twi'leks, even more than with people. Because when she spoke to them, she felt at home.
Bondara was also happy and at the same time surprised to meet a human girl who was raised by representatives of his race. You don't see that every day. Therefore, two Jedi from the same home planet quickly found common topics of conversation. Santal talked about her past and learned a lot about a stranger. Her new acquaintance was born into the Dara clan, was admitted to the Order at a young age, and eventually attained the rank of Master, following the path of a Jedi Guardian. Most importantly, Santal was amazed when she learned that he was a sentinel in the Ryloth system! It turns out that he could find her! Wow!
I really want to travel the world. I have already visited some of the planets, namely Tatooine, Corellia, Devarone, Naboo, "Santal admitted with childish ease. And casually added: - Although my aunt told me: "Do not go to Tatooine, or the giant slugs will eat you."
The elder Jedi's face turned sad.
Did I say something wrong? - Santal was frightened. Twi'lek hurried to smile and answered:
No, baby, it's okay. You just know, I also like to travel the Galaxy, I visit Hutt space with a feeling of awkwardness, seeing how many Twi'leks were slaves or servants of the Hutts. It upsets me that my clan members have become either poor or criminals, but as a Jedi, I must remain cool and impartial, even when negotiating with the Hutts.
It turns out that we need to talk politely with everyone, even with those who we don't like and who don't like us?
Yes. Unfortunately, yes, - answered Bondara honestly and directly.
I understand you perfectly. My aunt was once a Hutt thing. She would have been her to this day if one Jedi had not saved her. Maybe I'll save someone. The man nodded approvingly. And then Santal plucked up courage and voiced her concerns:
We will soon begin to master the sword. I'm afraid I can't do it. I heard that it is difficult. I will be among the laggards, and then they will expel me or ...
Bondara made a gesture so familiar to the girl, meaning that he would not tolerate such thoughts.
But the majority, on the contrary, are looking forward to such a moment. They can wave their arms, imagining themselves to be great warriors. And I think we need to let the Force guide the sword, throw away all possible fears about the outcome of the fight. Get rid of your thoughts. Don't expect victory. Don't expect defeat. Don't expect anything. The lightsaber is not meant to defeat enemies or rivals. We must use it to destroy our own greed, anger and stupidity. The one who created the lightsaber and walks with it through life must live in such a way that he himself can be a weapon against everything that is directed against peace and justice. And most importantly, be honest in your feelings, this is the surest road to knowing yourself and the Force.
These words gave Santal a tiny bit of hope.
As the days passed, training became more difficult. Santal was in trouble. The first is acrobatics. The girl was afraid to perform various techniques. Everything seemed to her that she would fall or be crippled.
Somersaults were especially difficult. More precisely, they were not given at all.
Second, the senior Jedi sounded the alarm because a month had passed since enrollment in the Order, and Santal had still not become close to anyone. Yoda even approached her and talked about this topic. Santal answered the truth. That she communicates normally with everyone, but does not feel the need for friendship. Then the master replied that if she did not try to open up, then she would never have friends.
Other children also tried to make friends with the girl, talked to her and invited her to play even more often than before.
- Well, how can you sit and read all the time? - Max was sincerely surprised, unlike Landa, who treated this daily routine with much more approval.
Although it was not true. Santal not only sat, but also walked wherever possible. I studied the new house, where everything is. She enjoyed the conversation, but she was in no hurry to sign up as friends. She considered her fellow clansmen to be exceptionally good friends with whom she could communicate. And friends, real friends in the full sense of the word, she simply did not need. She was used to being alone, she was so comfortable. When you sit alone, you don't have to give in to anyone, everything is only according to your own rules. Or you sit in the library, not bothering anyone. Nobody distracts. No, Santal loved to help, but sometimes she just needed to be alone and reflect. Think. And she began to think almost every second after the story with her uncle.
And then, after some time, unexpectedly for everyone, including herself, Santal found herself a friend, more precisely, a girlfriend. She was a girl only a year older than her and the Mrialan race. Her name was Barriss.
They met in the library. Then Santal wanted to know more about her parents and went there. At this time, Barriss was sitting at a long table and reading something. It was she who became interested in Santal, drawing attention to a girl with olive skin, black hair, very beautiful blue eyes (Santal admired, she could not even take her eyes off) and with a strange pattern on her face, like freckles.
First Santal sat on the opposite corner of the table, then a little closer. And then she took courage and sat down very close. Left.
"Hi," the reader replied quietly. Santal was surprised, she thought she would have to take the first step. Well, okay. So even better.
Hi.
What is your name?
I am Youngling Santal Sabura. And you?
Barriss Offee. Also youngling. Mirialanka.
Nice to meet you. Santal paused and added, "You don't... don't... mind if I sit with you?" Do you read?
Yes. One text.
So you like to read? So do I.
Yeah. Barriss answered calmly, monotonously and reluctantly, as if the lesson was answering. Only at the last word she smiled.
I'm also looking for information. About two Jedi.
Then Santal went to Jocasta, who had become her favorite librarian, and asked for a CD with information about Bastian and Adir Shan. And she provided what was needed without question. The girl returned to her seat, feeling her bursting with curiosity. Finally, she will make her dream come true. She finally finds out what her mother and father looked like. Suddenly she wanted to question Barriss.
"Barriss, were you, like everyone, found and taken to the Temple?
Yes.
And you don't remember your parents either?"
No. The girl shook her head. - I was born on board an unknown passenger liner and never knew my parents. However, my connection to the Force was quickly discovered and I was taken away.
Santal's pupils were dilated.
Wow! - she exclaimed. - I was also born on a ship. - And mentally added: "But, unlike the others, I was lucky. I know who my parents are. And I can look at them right now. "
And now the long-awaited moment has come. Santal looked at the photo, and warmth spread throughout her body. As if wrapped in a soft blanket. How she looks like them! For everyone. Dad got the eyes. From mom - hair.
So the girl sat there, unable to tear herself away from the faces of her parents.
"What eyes they have! There is so much power in them! And smiles! Probably, when they were taking pictures, none of them suspected that they would have a girl, and something would happen to them. Well, I don't believe such talented Jedi would die. Surely they just got lost. Either they went on an expedition, wishing to discover or have already discovered many new plants, or animals, or even a new planet, system. Galaxy! But something went wrong and they got stuck. Or maybe this is what happened: my parents crashed on an unknown planet, saved its inhabitants, and they made them their rulers. King and queen Or the chancellor and the chancellor's wife. "
Dreaming, the girl did not notice how an hour had passed, although it seemed to her that it was less. And from the next day they began to take acrobatics. This is where the problems began. Santal was scared.
Because in the classroom they had to do somersaults, jump, get up in different poses. The algorithm most often was this: you jump and move your arms and legs in the air. Left, right or something else. There was also such an exercise: you need to run up to the wall, push off from it with your feet and roll back, landing on your feet. This exercise in the Temple was considered one of the easiest. But Santal was afraid to do it. What if she falls, breaks her leg and ends up in the infirmary? No, she had a good relationship with Vokara, she just didn't like being sick.
For many of the clan members, most of the exercises worked. Yes, and the daughter of the Jedi herself, in principle, tried, it just did not work out most often because of fear. But in other subjects, things were much better. Just fine. On history, politics, she regularly crammed the material and answered questions more than once during the lesson. So her teachers were praised and considered the best in the clan in this matter.
Barriss and Santal became inseparable. Often they could be seen in the library communicating with each other, studying texts, discussing material. One explains one, and vice versa. Soul mates found each other.
And so a month passed. And soon Santal and her clan prepared a surprise. On that day, instead of the usual classes, they were expected to show Yoda's training duel with one of the masters. Of course, everyone was waiting for her with eagerly. Especially Max. Three days before the upcoming event, he was worn during the break. It will jump to the left to Adrian, then to the right to Dasha. When he jumped up to Landa, she scolded him:
Behave yourself! A future Jedi after all! I hope you will sit still during the duel.
Do not swear, teacher, - as always the boy answered with a joke. - But the rest, at least someone, tell me, are you burning with impatience? Adrian? Nick? Santal?
"A little, yes," Santal replied, hoping that he would calm down a little.
Her words had little effect. At least he stopped jumping. But Landa did not surprise her at all. Santal was also not happy with Max's behavior, but, unlike the twilight, she was calmer about it. And if such active and sociable children as Grace or Max said that she and Landa studied longer together, but still did not understand what was wrong with her (she was like that almost from the first day), then Santal was not at all worried , because she herself is the same. But there was a difference. Sabura was never hard on others. And Landa sometimes loved to educate. Of course, Santal understood that this was not just that, but others from the beginning of their acquaintance almost immediately gave up. That's why they joked at times.
And Santal suddenly remembered that when Dasha began to talk about the twilight, she abruptly stopped the attempt. And the girl might just have forgotten about it, but it didn't work. Curiosity burned like acid. And for obvious reasons, Santal did not dare to ask, and she considered it tactless to climb into someone else's soul without asking. When Landa herself wants to share with someone, then she will find out. And if he doesn't want with anyone, nothing. Santal will not be offended. She herself has secrets. One is scarier than the other. Here's another reason not to intrude. You yourself will ask a secret, you will have to tell yours. And Santal with anyone, even peers, was afraid to share secrets. You never know what. Enough time passed, and I was still afraid of strangers like fire, only less. I was not afraid of children at all, but all the same. Suddenly they are someone's spies, sent by adults to find out more about her than she said. Oh Sila, she seems to have begun to understand that uncle. Maybe that's why he didn't believe? Thought Santal was a secret agent sent to spy on him or even kill him. Although ... it cannot, and it is so! He said something like that. Maybe he has secrets himself. And he was afraid that she would find out? But Strength, she's honest. And besides, a Jedi. And the Jedi try to keep their word.
The girl learned an important lesson. When speaking, try to understand what the other person is thinking. You should not easily trust those whom you see for the first time or whom you know little. When you meet someone, you have no idea if this is your future enemy or your friend. Anything can be. Therefore, you need to be on your guard.
But, despite this, Santal remained unconvinced. No, she was beginning to understand her uncle's fears, to guess what he was thinking. But his guilt in her eyes did not diminish. She's just a girl! Doesn't she deserve mercy? Why is it obligatory to take it somewhere? Or maybe he guessed she was Force sensitive? But this is not an argument. Is it her fault that she was born this way? And he could check that she was really a child? In a word, the uncle is inadequate. From whatever angle you look.
Santal. - The voice pulled the girl out of prostration.
Santal stopped looking at the floor and raised her head. Landa was standing near the wall.
Hi. Something happened?
Nothing. I just want to talk, "the twilight said mysteriously. "But not here. - Shall we go to me or to you?
Let me think. Come on to me. It's somehow easier for me on my territory. Santal grew more and more terrifying with every word spoken. So what happened that Landa wants to talk in private? And this word is "easier." It smacks of something serious. It is now clear that a serious conversation awaits her, and not some girlish gossip.
Entering the room, Landa sank onto the bed. Legs together, eyes on hands. Santal pricked up her ears, prepared to listen.
Everything, I'm ready. Santal sat down beside her. Not too close, not too far.
At first Landa could not get herself together, she looked at her fingers, flexing them. At first, the daughter of the Jedi waited patiently, but when several minutes had passed, she braced herself and said:
If you don't know where to start, start from afar. Landa thought for two more minutes and began:
You know, I thought for a long time whether to say or not. Initially, even before you came here, I generally planned to keep to myself. I think you can understand why.
Well, I understand. Each of us has secrets ...
Right. Landa smiled without showing her teeth. Santal also smiled with emotion. - It's good that you understand that. So I made the right choice.
About what?
About what I will tell later. What you just said is good. It's true. But, unfortunately, not all are like that. For example, Daria and Maxim. They, if you noticed, often annoy me. One of the reasons is they are not like that. They love to share everything. Therefore, when I first came to this clan, I was "attacked by them." In the sense that they started asking personal questions. Well, you understand. How did I get to the Temple, who brought it. And Max in general climbed into the jungle, - the clan member complained.
Well, I haven't been "attacked". As far as I remember.
This experience of communicating with me taught them something. Lucky you. But I do not. I still remember that Max pestered the most with questions. - It's curiosity. - Santal tried to stand in the place of the boy. Try to understand what he would say.
"You know, you can die of curiosity," the twilight replied sharply and very seriously, her eyes flashing. Santal froze immediately. Landa said to the point. How you guessed!
Hey, what are you? Santal, Santal, where are you? Did I say something wrong?
Well no. Your last phrase ... right to the point. Should I not know about this.
Come on! - Landa was shocked. From the next grimace, it became clear that she also wanted to know what had happened, but almost immediately faded away. - Although it's me ... If you don't want to talk, don't. I understand perfectly well, I myself have never told anyone anything.
So we are here only for this? - Santal was surprised.
Yes. What? You thought ...
No no no. I didn't think about anything. It's just that when you started, I thought there was some terrible secret awaiting me. But I also liked this frank conversation. That you generally agreed to this. You know me worse than the rest. And I understand you. I myself do not like those who cannot, without a large circle
of friends, not share information, who constantly ask questions such as "what happened?", "Please, can I help?", And just harassment. For example, "where are you going?" Why do some people get involved in their own business? You know, before the Order, I enjoyed being alone. Fair. Communicated only with my uncle and aunt. Played most often in the backyard. That's why I want to spend time alone. True, a friend appeared recently. And that's enough for me. Everyone was perplexed that I often sit alone. And I'm so comfortable. Peers are not needed. Only if there are a lot of them. I don't know how else to explain.
In my opinion, you explained clearly enough.
OK, bye.
Santal turned around and was about to leave when she heard a soft whisper:
I don't remember my parents at all. More precisely, I would like to forget them. If they loved me, they wouldn't sell me to some syndicate. Not rations, if you've thought about them. They made me serve. At first glance, nothing complicated. Bring trays of food and drinks. But in reality, everything is much worse. When you are pulled, pushed, kicked, spanked a hundred times a day. I could not stand it and wanted to run away. But it's hard to escape when a chip is put in you that explodes when you try to leave the territory. But I tried. At first I wore a collar with an electric leash. Hardly found a way to turn it off. But I was caught and this chip was planted. Then I was resold. I ran away on the way, transferring to another ship. But he was captured by pirates. So I changed five masters, until a Jedi accidentally found me and brought me here. - Landa spoke with difficulty. And it was clear from the intonation that the story was not complete. But even without that, it was terrifying.
Santal was shocked. For a short time I stopped hearing altogether. A veil covered his eyes. This is what she did not expect to hear. No, she had thoughts that there was something unpleasant in Selmura's life. But she didn't even think about it.
"Now it's clear why you ... I wouldn't tell anyone either. And yet you shared with me. It is with me. Why? The girl asked just as quietly.
It is not that simple. See, you told me to start from afar. I started. Through the conversation, I realized that you and I are kindred spirits. This is how I learned that you can be trusted. And I entrusted you with the main terrible secret, without fear of what you will reveal. I know. No offense.
And Santal was not at all offended. Moreover, she was going to take this technique into service in the future. Thank you, Landa. What a fine fellow she is! Despite everything, she continued to live on!
Probably Santal could not do that. Previously, she considered herself a sufferer, but now she learned that, it turns out, there are people who are unhappy than she.
You know, I also want to tell the main terrible secret.
Santal told how she got to the Temple. About everything. To which Landa replied:
Oh, you're still lucky. In general, I noticed long ago that you are very lucky. Was born in a shirt. And you know what else?
What?
"I also chose you because you are from Ryloth.
Yes. And there is. I was raised by Twi'leks. It's strange that I understand why I have no processes. I know that I am human. But I consider myself a semi-tweelek. It is clear why.
For the first time in the evening, and for the entire acquaintance, Landa laughed. But this laugh was light, quick, but memorable.
And I still wondered why you try to hold on representatives of my race, not my own. I noticed that you feel more confident with twi'leks. Not every day you come across such a phenomenon.
Yes, that is right. Probably. Okay, if you don't mind, I'll go now. If we've discussed everything.
Of course. I don't hold you anymore. Until.
Until.
Reaching her room, Santal fell on the bed, digesting the whole evening, after which she felt different. New. As if she was older. She had never before had such a serious conversation. Santal also felt that she was close to another girl. And it's great! Brought together on similar secrets and problems. Indeed, soul mates. The girl sincerely believed that Landa would not tell anyone her secret. As well as today's conversation.
The world for Santal Sabura began to lose its pink color. And she will carry the secret of Landa to the grave!