Burning Shadows
Chapter 10
Yumikaya awoke slowly as the smell of breakfast drifted into the room she was asleep in. After yawning and stretching slowly, Yumikaya got dressed and followed the pleasant smell into the dining area.
" Sis is awake! " Yumitaya happily smiled as Yumikaya sat beside her.
" Morning Taya. " Yumikaya hugged her sister gently as Zanira placed a plate of food in front of them both.
" Morning sweetheart. Eat up. If you are up to it.. I would like to show you what we have been doing while you were gone ok? " Zanira had a look of longing and pleading in her eyes,
" Yeah...that sounds... good. " Yumikaya was happy to see what had been going on in her absence but felt unsure exactly what to say.
" Are you ok sis? " Yumitaya put her arms around Yumikaya gently and leant her head against Yumikaya's shoulder.
" Yeah I'm ok. I just... I just need to get used to this. I've been on my own for so long... This is all very new and I'm a little out of my depth. " Yumikaya smiled gently but was clearly still emotional and confused.
" Well have your breakfast and then we can take all the time you need until you feel ready sweety. We have all the time in the galaxy now. " Zanira smiled as she sat down and began eating breakfast.
Once Yumikaya had eaten breakfast, She went back to her room to get her armour, lightsabre and fix her hair. Much like the previous day, Yumikaya brushed her hair straight to remove any knots then braided the left side of her head before putting the rest of her hair up in a ponytail and adding her hair extensions. Once her hair was done, Yumikaya put on her armour and attached her lightsabre to her belt.
After walking outside into the chill wind, Yumikaya noticed how beautiful the snow looked in the dim sunrise. " It's... This is so amazing..."
Yumikaya sat down and smiled as she played with the snow and watched as each flake of snow glistened in the morning sunlight.
" It is. Ilum is a magnificent place. It's very cold but it holds wonders and secrets beyond imagining. One of which is what i want to show you. When you are ready of course. " Zanira smiled as Yumikaya and Yumitaya played in the snow happily.
As the two young girls threw snow at each other playfully, Yumitaya asked her sister a question. " Hey sis... Um... what are those pink lines on your skin? "
Yumikaya suddenly stopped and looked at her sister with a smile. " These are Felucian warrior tattoos. I got them during my survival training. "
Yumitaya walked to her sister and placed a hand on her cheek gently. " Hey mom... Kaya's tattoos are... um... humming..."
Yumikaya looked curiously at her sister as Zanira walked over slowly but didn't need to place a hand on her daughters cheek. " That's... That's not possible... Kaya will you come with me? There is somewhere you need to go. "
Yumikaya looked nervously between her mother and sister before nodding slowly. As they walked through the snow, Zanira explained her reasons for taking her daughter wherever they were going.
" Those are very special tattoos sweetheart. But they can be so much more than just decorative. Which is why we are here. " Zanira stopped walking as Yumikaya noticed a tunnel leading deep into the icy caves of Ilum.
" But... What's down there? " Yumikaya looked into the tunnel nervously.
" It's ok sis. Nothing down there will hurt you. I went down there when I had a vision two years ago. You'll be ok and if anything happens I'll come and save you ok? " Yumitaya smiled happily as she hugged Yumikaya and the two girls giggled as Zanira patted Yumikaya's head gently.
" We won't let anything happen to you sweety. I promise. We will be right here and we will be waiting. If anything happens we will come for you. " Zanira kissed her daughters head gently as Yumikaya sighed and stepped into the tunnel cautiously.
The tunnel was pitch black until Yumikaya stepped into the shadows and her warrior marks started to glow softly. As Yumikaya walked through the icy tunnel, A soft wind drifted through.
" Who is this... A soft thing but strong in the force... But what does she seek... "
" W... Who's there? What do you want? " Yumikaya stood still nervously as another voice circled around her.
" We are eternal. We are immortal. We are one with the force. The question however is... What do you want? So many have come here for power or guidance or ancient secrets. What is it that you seek little one? "
Yumikaya sighed nervously as she spoke." I... I don't know... My mother told me to come here... " Yumikaya stood nervously as a third voice spoke.
" She knows not what she seeks... And yet... We know what she needs. Those marks little one... Do you know what they truly are? "
" I was given them on Felucia. They told me that they are the marks of a tribal warrior. " Yumikaya did her best not to be scared as the first voice spoke.
" Those are much more than marks little one. Those are biochemical Midichlorian's. They are created using the Midichlorian's of a living thing such as plant life and infusing them with a variety of toxins and chemicals. If done properly, Those marks will act as a focus for your Force energy. Magnifying it exponentially. However your marks are unrefined. They require our attention. Continue down this tunnel little one. We will be waiting."
Yumikaya nodded silently and continued walking down the tunnel.
Three Hours Later
" She has been gone longer than I was mom... I'm worried.. " Yumitaya looked up at her mother sadly as Zanira smiled.
" Can you feel her through the force? " Zanira smiled as Yumitaya giggled.
" Of course I can! She is my big sister. I could find her anywhere! "Yumitaya giggled happily as Zanira patted her head gently.
" Then we have nothing to worry about sweetheart. " Zanira smiled before returning to her meditation.
Caverns
" We have been a part of the Force for many millennia little one. We have knowledge that your Jedi and Sith can only dream of. Knowledge that could rewrite history. But before we educate you, We will repair your marks before the toxin mix has any negative side effects. Now sit and open yourself to the Force. "
" What if I open myself too much? Won't others who are hunting me know where to find me? " Yumikaya spoke with tones of concern as she started to feel overwhelmed.
" No one will know you are here. We will drown these caverns in the Force. All anyone will feel is a large presence. Which they more than likely feel anyway with all the crystal caverns on this planet. At most they will think the crystals are having a surge of Force power. Which gives us all the time we need. Now close your eyes and open yourself little one. "
" Alright. I'm ready. " Yumikaya closed her eyes slowly as the Force rushed through the cavern like a wildfire. As Yumikaya opened herself to the Force, She felt her marks burn as if red hot metal was being scraped along her skin. " It... It burns... Why is it burning..." Yumikaya spoke shakily as soft sighs of pain escaped her lips.
" For us to repair your marks we must purify any... Inconsistencies. The toxin mix in your marks was imperfect. Purification and then correction. This will take us some time so we have sealed this part of the cavern. It will get very cold in here but we will keep you safe until you are ready. Relax and rest little one. "
As Yumikaya slowly fell asleep, Her marks burned more and more while the force around her cooled the air to freezing point.
" Do you think this one will survive? Her marks are very impure. "
" I don't know if she will survive or not. But she is only the second human to have them. But I know we have to try. The Force in her is equal to ours before we became one with it. Her marks will reform and we will show her another way to live. Jedi and Sith are pragmatic and narrow minded points of view. We will show her the truth. We will show her a path that will make her stronger than we ever were. "
" And say she does survive then. Will she be able to handle the force in it's unrestricted entirety? Will she be able to tolerate the amount of magnification that her marks will apply? "
" Yes. We will we show her how. "
" This will take a long time. These impurities would have killed her within a few months. It may take us weeks to purify the marks before we can begin repair. "
" Then we take as long as we need. "
" I agree. We do this the correct way the first time. Failure is no longer an option. "
" Indeed. Let us begin."
As Zanira and Yumitaya meditated, A soft yet pain filled ripple echoed through the force from the deepest depths of the cavern. As Zanira opened her eyes, Yumitaya stood up quickly and motioned to run into the tunnel.
" Taya! We must not interfere! " Zanira had as much concern going through her mind as Yumitaya but tried to remain composed.
" I don't care mom! I'm not losing my sister. I only just got her back! " Yumitaya ignited her training lightsabre and ran into the tunnel following her sister's force signature.
As Yumitaya ran further into the tunnel, Another ripple echoed through the force. This time it was not filled with pain. It was an absence. A silence. Yumitaya quietly started to worry as she reached out to her sister again. Upon sensing her sister's signature in the force, Yumitaya realised it was coming from much deeper in the cavern but the way was sealed.
" I gotta go tell mom. " Yumitaya turned and followed her mother's force signature as quickly as she could. When she arrived, Zanira, Kalina and Orgus Din were discussing what to do.
" I am well aware of what that ripple could mean Orgus. You forget that she is MY daughter. But we cannot interfere. " Zanira spoke impatiently.
" I know that but if there is any chance that she may be injured than we must investigate. " Orgus Din spoke calmly.
" Enough Orgus. If Zanira says we do not interfere than we don't it's that simple. " Kalina spoke forcefully as Orgus sighed and motioned to walk into the tunnel.
As he approached the entrance, Zanira stood in his way. " You will not interfere with my daughter's training. She is not part of your Jedi order and you have no right to disturb her. Make another step and i promise you i will make it your last. " Zanira entered her combat stance as she ignited her lightsabre. Zanira's lightsabre was double-bladed with a straight hilt and square emitter shroud. The blades were curved slightly in opposite directions and had a burning orange core with a fiery red glow.
" We can't get to her anyway. The caverns are sealed. " Yumitaya spoke softly as she caught her breathe.
" Until Kaya returns, NO-ONE enters this tunnel. That is FINAL!. " Zanira spoke forcefully as a light wave of force energy erupted from her in Orgus Din's direction as her lightsabre deactivated.
" I will consult the Jedi council about this. " Orgus Din turned and walked away as Kalina spoke next.
" Consult them all you like Orgus. They have less authority here than you do. No-one disturbs Kaya. End of story. " Kalina sighed slightly as Orgus Din walked away in a huff.
Orgus Din entered his fighter and flew back to the cruiser in orbit before walking to his room and contacting the Jedi council. When the holocommunicator answered, Satele Shan spoke softly.
" Orgus? Have you news to share? " Satele Shan was surprised by the sudden contact as Orgus Din spoke.
" Yes. Yumikaya has been sent into the caverns beneath Ilum and her mother is not allowing anyone to enter despite the fact that there was a ripple in the force filled with pain coming from the caverns. According to Yumikaya's sister, The caverns are sealed but i do not condone this course of action. " Orgus Din spoke impatiently as Satele thought for a moment.
" Zanira has said no one will enter correct? " Satele spoke calmly and gently as always.
" That is correct Master. She has promised that if anyone enters the tunnel she will make that action they're last. " Orgus was tapping his foot lightly as Satele spoke again.
" Then that is how it must be. No one will enter. Speaking from personal experience Master Orgus, DO NOT cross Zanira. She is one of the few Sith that no Jedi has ever defeated. Not even me. Take this as an official order Orgus, Do not enter those tunnels under any circumstances. " Satele spoke forcefully but still remained calm and composed as Orgus Din showed frustration at her order.
" And if i do enter those tunnels? " Orgus Din had a slight look of defiance on his face as Satele once again spoke.
" You will forfeit your rank of Master and seat upon this council. That family and everyone that is either part of it or affiliated with it is out of our jurisdiction. You will not interfere with how they train they're children. " Satele Shan cut off the communicator without another word as Master Syo Bakarn spoke calmly.
" It would seem that Orgus has once again forgotten himself. " Syo Bakarn glanced at Satele Shan as another voice echoed throughout the council chamber.
" Let us be honest, Orgus has not been himself since Coruscant. The loss of his padawan broke him and shook his beliefs. He now wavers on the edge of darkness. " Bela Kiwiiks had spoken honestly but calmly as Syo Bakarn finished speaking.
" Want honesty? Orgus Din has never been a Jedi of the code. We all know that. If he is going to go against Zanira and her decisions than we will have a serious problem resulting from his actions. Zanira is not to be trifled with. " Jaric Kaedan spoke as bluntly as usual as Satele Shan heard them all voice they're thoughts.
" You are all correct. We cannot allow Orgus to endanger the fragile agreement that we have with Zanira. Master Bakarn, Master Kiwiiks, Take your padawan's and travel to Ilum immediately. If Orgus is indeed threatening the agreement then you have leave to bring him back here. By force if necessary. And please ensure Zanira however you can that the Jedi have no intention of interfering with her and her family. " Satele Shan stood slowly and bowed to the other council members before leaving the council chamber.
As Satele Shan left, Master Kiwiiks and Master Bakarn discussed what to do. " This... is not going to be easy is it? "
" Is anything to do with Orgus ever easy Syo? " Master Kiwiiks spoke gently.
" Uh... No. Shall we go then? " Master Bakarn and Kiwiiks walked towards the training grounds to find they're padawan's.
Two Days Later
" Is she still down there Zanira? " Kalina spoke softly as she glanced down the tunnel with worry in her eyes.
" Yes. And down there she will stay until they are done with her. " Zanira began meditating after speaking calmly.
" It's been two days mom. If i couldn't feel Kaya through the force I'd be worried that something has happened. It's weird though..." Yumitaya spoke softly as she glanced down the dark tunnels.
" What is it Taya? " Zanira looked at her youngest daughter curiously as she spoke.
" Well... I can sense sis but it's strange. It's like she is asleep or something. She is so calm and peaceful right now. But she is feeling pain... And her force signature keeps... Pulsing. Like it's growing.. " Yumitaya looked up at her mother calmly as Zanira patted her head.
" Kaya will be alright sweetheart. The priestesses would never hurt anyone. " Zanira smiled as Yumitaya giggled happily.
" I know. They are nice. Even the grumpy one. " Yumitaya smiled cheekily before running off to play.
" Can the priestesses really help her? " Kalina spoke softly as Zanira sat down to meditate.
" Yes. They can and will help her. She is the second human to have those marks. The last one attempted to destroy the galaxy. They will not make those mistakes with Kaya. " Zanira sighed softly before entering her meditative trance.
Five Days Later
" The repairs of her marks are going nicely. The purification went perfectly. The toxic components of her marks were cleansed without incident. She is uniquely strong for someone so young. "
" Indeed. Her strength is surprising. She must have had a very hard childhood. "
" She is almost ready to begin her training. Let us not allow the same mistakes. "
" No. That will not happen this time. That one was an egotistical brat who cared for nothing and no-one. She is different. She has family and friends to help guide her. She will not be so foolish as that one. "
" He was powerful though. But in the end his arrogance was his undoing. But this one... She will listen to us i think."
" Time will tell sisters. Let us hope for the best. "
Meanwhile
" Gone now for just over a week. Is there really nothing we can do? " Kalina spoke softly with tones of worry and concern in her voice.
" No. Nothing. We can only wait. " Zanira went about her daily life as normal but it was concerning that Yumikaya was taking so long.
" Sis is ok... right mom? " Yumitaya looked up at her mother sadly as Zanira smiled and picked up her daughter.
" Of course she is. Your sister is a strong girl. Don't worry darling, She will be home soon. " Zanira smiled and held Yumitaya lovingly but in her heart she was herself starting to worry.
" Go and play sweety. Lunch will be ready soon. And will you take Kalina with you? She looks far too miserable over there. " Zanira smiled as Yumitaya ran happily over to the small table Kalina was sitting at.
" Kalina? Will you come and play in the snow with me? " Yumitaya smiled happily as Kalina smiled and nodded. Kalina and Yumitaya walked outside to play in the snow as Zanira started making lunch. As Kalina and Yumitaya were playing, Two Flash-Fire scout fighters landed near Yumikaya's.
As the engines on the fighters slowly powered down, Shae Vizla and Larkan stepped out and walked over to where Kalina and Yumitaya were playing.
" How are things here? " Shae Vizla spoke to Kalina calmly as Yumitaya giggled happily at the snowman they had made.
" Good. Kaya is still training in the caverns so we are waiting for her. How about things on the cruiser? " Kalina looked up with a smile but Shae Vizla sighed sadly.
" We... Have a problem. Orgus is losing it. This morning he tried to convince Larkan that Zanira had sent Yumikaya into a cavern and sealed her inside. That she was in pain and was suffering. I think.. " Shae Vizla stopped suddenly as Zanira finished her sentence.
" That he has stepped over the edge and is drowning in darkness. " Zanira stopped speaking as Shae Vizla nodded. " Contact the Jedi Council. I will speak with Satele. " Shae Vizla nodded as the droid in her fighter activated its holo-communicator while Zanira sat a plate of sandwiches on the soft snow next to Yumitaya. When the call was answered, Satele Shan greeted them with a surprised look in her eyes.
" Zanira? This is an unexpected call... How can i be of assistance? " Satele Shan spoke as calmly as always.
" I believe your Master Orgus has... " Zanira didn't need to finish her sentence as Satele Shan put her face in her hands.
" I didn't want to believe it. We had our suspicions when he contacted us and I dispatched two Jedi Masters to deal with it. I assure you the Jedi have no intention of interfering with your family. " Satele's voice wavered for but a moment which Zanira detected.
" I am aware. But this... Problem cannot stand. Only this morning did Orgus try to turn the privateer that brought my daughter here against me with words of poison and deception. What am i to make of this? " Zanira crossed her arms contently as Satele Shan sighed softly.
" The Jedi Masters I sent will arrive in orbit tomorrow. I will not try to stop you from dealing with this yourself if it comes to that but otherwise i ask you.. Allow us to return Master Orgus to the Jedi. Allow us to try to return him to the light. Please? " Satele Shan spoke respectfully but pleadingly as Zanira uncrossed her arms.
" Very well. If he oversteps before your Masters arrive i will protect my family with no hesitation. But if your Masters arrive before he acts then the issue is yours to solve. I want no conflict with the Jedi you know that Satele. But i have waited too long for my daughter to come home to allow Orgus to endanger her. " Zanira spoke calmly.
" I understand Ki Aki... It is good to see you again by the way. It has been too long. " Satele smiled slightly as Zanira smiled.
" It is good to see you to Ki Diti. Perhaps you should visit from time to time. " Zanira smiled as Satele smiled happily.
" You... You forgive me then? For what happened? " Satele Shan looked hopefully at Zanira.
" Hard to forgive something i never hated you for Ki Diti. Please visit sometime. I would love for you to meet my daughters. " Zanira smiled as a single tear fell down Satele Shan's cheek.
" You... Never hated me..." Satele Shan's voice trembled as she spoke.
" You didn't exactly give me the chance to tell you until now Ki Diti. Come and visit. We can talk about everything when you arrive. " Zanira bowed calmly as Satele spoke.
" O.. Of course Ki Aki.. I'll be there as soon as possible! " Satele stood quickly as the holo-call ended and she rushed to her fighter.
As Zanira smiled happily, Shae Vizla spoke with confusion in her voice.
" You just called her... " Shae Vizla stopped as Zanira raised her hand slowly.
" I know Shae. But don't act so surprised. After all you were with us for most of our missions before i left the order. " Zanira smiled as Shae Vizla laughed.
" Just didn't expect you to call her that after so long. It's good to see you two reconcile though. What happened wasn't her fault. " Shae Vizla smiled as Zanira giggled.
" I wouldn't have invited her if i thought otherwise. What happened was... Painful but was no one's fault. For a long time I did blame her but I realised the error in the way of thinking. " Zanira smiled as Shae Vizla walked back to Yumitaya and Kalina.
" That is true. Until she arrives however we need to discuss how we will deal with Orgus if he loses control. We cannot have a rogue fallen Jedi just running freely around Ilum. It may disturb Kaya. " Shae Vizla spoke with deep concern in her voice as Zanira nodded.
" I agree. If he sends too large a ripple through the Force, Kaya may sense it. If she does at this point in her training it may have... Irreversible consequences. Speak with my nephew and put in place some contingencies. " Zanira spoke calmly beforeKalina smiled as Shae Vizla bowed and walked back to her fighter. Larkan said goodbye to Kalina and walked back to his own fighter as well.
Once they had returned to the ship, Shae Vizla walked out of the hangar and started searching for Aratarus. Ironically, He wasn't hard to find. Mako and Aratarus were sitting in the dining hall having lunch as Shae Vizla walked in. When Shae Vizla sat down, Aratarus picked up a cup and drank slowly as Mako smiled to Shae Vizla. " Hiya Shae. How are things in the winter wonderland? "
" Going well so far. Our only issue is Orgus. Zanira wants us to put some contingencies in place to ensure his emotional meltdown doesn't disturb Kaya. Her training is ongoing and Zanira is concerned that Orgus may cause a disturbance in the Force that will disrupt Kaya's training. " Shae Vizla smiled as Aratarus sighed contently after finishing his drink.
" Contingencies for a Jedi Council member? Hmm... " Aratarus thought for a moment as Mako spoke up cheerily.
" Well we do have force shackles from Iron fist's ship." Mako sipped her drink slowly as Shae Vizla spoke.
" Those would work but we would need to incapacitate him first. " Shae Vizla thought carefully as Aratarus spoke.
" I hunted a few Jedi during The Great Hunt. They were difficult to take down but not impossible. Gas works sometimes and tranquilliser darts are effective if you surprise them. Sonic fields also work really well. Stun grenades and flamethrowers can give a Jedi some trouble to. Other than that it depends on the Jedi themselves. Padawan's are easy but Jedi Masters can be a royal pain. " Aratarus spoke calmly and with a tone of experience about him as Shae Vizla wrote down some notes in her data-pad.
" Okay. Those points should do it. We need to figure out how to implement these with a system that doesn't require constant attention. Like a mine. " Shae Vizla spoke as Mako giggled.
" Stun mines shouldn't be too difficult to make. Stun darts and gas traps we have on our ship. Sonic field might be a bit tricky but I'll see what the techs can work up for us. Lets keep this hush though. We don't want Orgus to get ahead of us. " Mako spoke softly as she stood and left the room.
" Smart girl that Mako. Got yourself a keeper huh? " Shae Vizla teased Aratarus playfully.
" Yeah. Think i might have to marry her. " Aratarus smiled as Shae Vizla's jaw dropped at the sound of how serious Aratarus was.
" You know i was just teasing... Right? " Shae Vizla smiled as Aratarus nodded. " And that she will deck your sorry ass for not asking her sooner. "
Aratarus laughed heartily as Shae Vizla smiled. " Yeah i know. Should've asked her years ago. Better late than never right? "
" You better pray she sees it that way Aratarus. Or i might walk onto your ship and find Mako with a new rug. " Shae Vizla poked her tongue out playfully as Aratarus laughed again before walking out to find Mako.
" Got a lot of stuff that Hunter. No wonder he won The Great Hunt. Pity i didn't see it... Bet it was glorious. " Shae Vizla smiled before walking towards the kitchen to find some food.
One Week Later
" At last. Her marks are as they should be. The shape has changed to. "
" Indeed. But it suits her. Now it is time to wake her and begin her instruction. "
" Yes. It is time. Awaken little one. "
Yumikaya slowly opened her eyes as the chill in the air receded. " W... What happened? I feel so cold... "
" The Force cooled the air to a point that you were technically frozen. It did no harm and made our work easier. Your marks are reforged and pure. You will notice the difference. "
" They're beautiful... And i feel so good.. Almost like... " Yumikaya sighed softly with a smile as one of the priestesses spoke.
" Like being reborn. All your senses new and untouched. Like seeing the sun after eternity in the dark. Like feeling the rain touch your skin for the first time. "
" Yes. It is. It feels wonderful. " Yumikaya smiled as the priestesses watched.
" It is time to begin your training little one. The first thing you need to learn is your new path. Neither Jedi nor Sith yet both. Jedi use the light and Sith the dark but what is in-between? "
" But i thought there was only light and dark.. is there more? " Yumikaya spoke softly as the priestesses chuckled.
" Oh yes. Light and dark but there is also what lies between. Balance. The Force in all it's glory and power. Your first lesson is the code you will follow. "
" Do i need to follow a code? " Yumikaya spoke calmly.
" Not necessarily. But you think of a code as a set of rules. Whereas it is more... Guidance than rules. Hence..."
Yumikaya sat silently as the five priestesses recited the code they wanted her to learn.
Chaos with Harmony
Ignorance with Knowledge
Fear with Courage
Power with Temperance
Strength with Patience
Passion with Serenity
Life with Death
Dark with Light
Balance in All
The Will of The Force Guides
Yumikaya thought for a few moments before speaking. " So I must find balance in all things? While still listening to the Force so that it's will can guide me? "
" Correct. You must be both light and dark yet give neither your preference. You are the line that they cross. The middle of the scale. You are Balance and The Force is the only guide. As we are one with the Force we give voice to it's will when the Force shows it to us. We are guided by the Force and care only for balance. As you will. "
" Balance... Light with Dark... So i must learn and control both? " Yumikaya asked softly.
" Yes. And we will teach you. The Force takes no sides. It is neither light nor dark. The Force is neutral in all things. It is the person who wields the Force and the choices they make that are light or dark. Like our last student. The last human to have these marks. "
" There was another? Was the last one balanced? " Yumikaya asked curiously as the priestesses each spoke.
" No. He was angry. "
" He was misguided. "
" He was proud and egotistical. "
" He was mad with power and destroyed much of the galaxy. He broke the balance. "
" He defied the Will of the Force and ignored our words. "
" His ignorance and pride led to his destruction. "
" Who was he? " Yumikaya listened to the words of each priestess as they spoke.
" We do not speak his name. He is a ghost from a time long past. You however are different. You are not blinded as he was. You will be what we tried to achieve in him. You will be a Flower of Balance. As your marks depict. "
Yumikaya turned to a flat wall of ice and looked at her reflection. There, On her forehead, Was a glowing pink flower connected to the swirling floral lines that her marks had become. " Flower of Balance... "
" Yes. You will bring balance to both the Force and the galaxy itself. Through you, The Will of the Force will finally be heard without bias or pragmatic foolishness. Through you, We will finally see the Will of the Force find fruition. "
" Then i would learn all that you can teach me and ask that you show me how to hear the Will of the Force. I will not succumb to my power like the last student. This is who i am. Balance. Please teach me? " Yumikaya spoke calmly and soothingly as the priestesses sighed satisfyingly.
" Already she makes us proud. Listen and learn little one. We will teach you all we know. "
Meanwhile
" Kaya is still down there mom. I can sense her. She was only here for one day and then suddenly she was gone again. I want her back now! " Yumitaya spoke softly as tears fell down her cheeks.
" I know sweetheart but we cannot interrupt her. Kaya's training is very important and does not require our input. She will come back. " Zanira held Yumitaya lovingly as she cried.
" But i miss her.. I want to hug her and play in the snow with her. I want to be with her all the time.. And i can't be. I don't like it..." Yumitaya cried as she spoke and her voice trembled.
" You and Kaya bonded so quickly. It is ok to miss her. But as long as you can sense her we know she is alright. " Zanira smiled as Yumitaya wiped her tears away and smiled slightly.
As Zanira stood, Kalina ran over to her with a panicked look on her face. " We have a problem. "
" What is it Kalina? " Zanira leant against a large boulder as Kalina spoke.
" It's Orgus. I just got word from the ship. He took a fighter and is on his way to the surface. " Kalina sat down slowly.
" And the Jedi Masters? " Zanira quickly stood up straight.
" They arrived when Satele said they would and subdued him but he just escaped and killed Syo Bakarn... And his padawan. Then stole the starship they arrived in and is coming here. Bela Kiwiiks and her padawan are following him. " Kalina laid back gently.
" Then we do indeed have a problem. Has Satele arrived yet? " Zanira spoke quickly as she turned to walk back to Yumitaya.
" No. She is due today. She would have been here a few days ago but she got side-tracked by an emergency call from her padawan. " Kalina spoke calmly but sat up quickly as Zanira spoke.
" Get a message to her as quickly as possible and tell her what has happened. Also, Contact the ship and tell them we need immediate reinforcements. Request Aratarus and Shae Vizla. They will have finished the contingencies. Tell them they need to be here as quickly as possible. And tell Bela Kiwiiks to track the ship Orgus stole if she can. I want to know where it lands! " Zanira walked quickly over to Yumitaya as Kalina ran off to relay Zanira's instructions.
" What's happening mom? Are we going somewhere? " Yumitaya had concern and confusion in her eyes as Zanira picked her up.
" Yes sweetheart. Orgus has fallen to the darkness within himself and we are in danger. We will wait for Shae and Ara to arrive then we will plan what to do. " Zanira spoke softly and calmly as Yumitaya nodded. Yumitaya quietly looked to the tunnel leading to her sister and a sad feeling echoed within her heart.
Caverns
" Wait... I felt something.. " Yumikaya spoke softly as she stopped what she was doing.
" It is your connection to your sister. The two of you forged a bond within the force. Far quicker than it would normally take. What did you feel? "
" Sadness... " Yumikaya sat down slowly as one priestess spoke.
" Close your eyes and concentrate on your bond. Through your bond it is possible to communicate with each other. Focus. "
Yumikaya closed her eyes slowly and concentrated on her sister as hard as she could.
" Taya? "
As the soft sound of Yumikaya's voice echoed into the force and flowed into Yumitaya's mind, she cried out suddenly. " Mom stop! Put me down! "
" Why? What's wrong? " Zanira had a look of shock and surprise on her face.
" I heard Kaya! " Yumitaya sat down quickly and closed her eyes.
" But that means the two of you have a Force bond... How... " Zanira looked shocked and surprised before snapping back to reality. " Concentrate Taya. Remember what i taught you. "
Yumitaya took a deep breathe before concentrating. " Kaya? Can you hear me? "
" I can hear you Taya. Are you ok? I felt your sadness..."
" I miss you so much Kaya... You have been down there for nearly three weeks now and i only got to spend one day with you before you were gone again. I want you home. You are going to come back... Right? "
" Of course i am coming back. I miss you to. I know we only got one day but when i come home we will always be together. I just need to finish my training. I promise i will be back home soon. I love you little sister. "
" I love you to big sister. Come home soon.. "
Yumitaya sighed happily as she opened her eyes slowly. " Kaya is ok.. she felt my sadness. She is still training but says she will come home soon. "
Zanira smiled and held Yumitaya gently. " See? I told you she was alright. Just keeping thinking of her voice and she will be home before you know it. "
Yumitaya cried happily before nodding and standing up. As Zanira picked her up again, Yumitaya heard her sisters voice echoed through her mind again. " I love you little sister. "
Yumikaya opened her eyes slowly and stood up before speaking. " It's ok. My sister misses me and wants me to come home but i told her that i need to finish my training first. She understands. "
" Good. Patience. You are learning already. Now back to your training. Ignite your sabre. "
Yumikaya did as she was told and ignited her lightsabre. The blade glowed a deep ice blue as the priestesses spoke.
" Your crystal is bonded to you through the force. When your training is complete it will reflect who you are. For now we will teach you a Lightsabre technique that the current Jedi and Sith do not know. It is an ancient form called Sokan. It is a lightsabre form that uses high mobility, sweeping movements and the environment itself in battle. We will teach you the basic forms as well but we feel that Sokan will suit you. Now... "
The priestesses focused for a moment before a male human materialised in front of Yumikaya and ignited a lightsabre. As Yumikaya looked nervously at the person before her, The priestesses spoke again.
" As we cannot teach you this form ourselves we have created this being as a force apparition. Copy his movements. "
Yumikaya followed the movements of the human. First was the ready stance. The male knelt on one knee with his eyes closed and his lightsabre pointing toward the sky. Yumikaya memorised the stance before copying it and staying still for several moments.
" Good. Now the combat stance. "
The male moved and stood while moving his lightsabre to his side where it pointed at an angle toward the ground. Then, he moved his body so that he was slightly turned and his head was tilted down but allowed peripheral vision. Again, Yumikaya memorised the stance before copying it.
" Very good. Now you will learn the strikes and movements. This form is best in open spaces with environmental input but we want you to refine it for small enclosed spaces as well. Watch and practice. "
The male moved in accordance to the description of the form with swift mobility and fast sweeping strikes but remained central in the return to his combat stance. Yumikaya watched and memorised the movements in silence before beginning to copy them one by one. After what felt like forever, Yumikaya was beginning to get the movements correct. As she continued to practice, Yumikaya noticed that the priestesses were moving down a tunnel past the male. As Yumikaya moved to follow, The male struck at her swiftly but Yumikaya managed to dodge in time.
" To follow us, Defeat him. "
Yumikaya took a deep breathe before entering the Sokan combat stance. After a few moments, The male lunged forward and swung with a wide sweep attack toward Yumikaya's chest. Yumikaya quickly blocked and dodged sideways before using the wall of the tunnel to lunge upwards and push off of the roof. With a swift sweeping downward strike, Yumikaya pushed the male back to where he was originally standing.
As he recovered, The male changed his combat stance and Yumikaya memorised the stance as quickly as she could before the male lunged into a flurry of quick aggressive attacks. Yumikaya blocked as quickly as she could but suffered a hit to her upper left arm and lower right leg before dodging and beginning her own set of sweeping strikes and quick manuevers. The male defended quickly before again changing his combat stance.
Once again, Yumikaya memorised what she could before dodging a strong downward strike and kicking the male's left leg. As the male fell to his knees, Yumikaya flipped overhead and made a wide downward sweep which connected to the males neck and drew a diagonal line down to his hip. As he fell back and disappeared, Yumikaya panted heavily and checked her wounds. The cut on her leg was light but the cut on her arm was deep and had barely missed the armour plate of her armoured pauldron. The wound burned as Yumikaya used her lightsabre to severe a piece of ice from a pillar nearby and used it to cool the wound.
" Clever. The wound cauterises from the blade of the lightsabre but continues to burn. The ice will cool the wound and prevent further damage. Proceed. "
Yumikaya sighed painfully as she continued down the tunnel that the priestesses went through. As Yumikaya sighed, Her pain echoed into the force.
As Yumitaya stood next to Zanira she felt a searing heat in her upper right arm and grasped it before a loud gasp of pain escaped her lips. As Yumitaya fell to her knees, Zanira knelt quickly with shock on her face.
" Taya?! What's wrong? " Zanira spoke fiercely as Yumitaya cried.
" Kaya is in pain. i can feel her pain... " Yumikaya cried softly as Zanira spoke.
" How... How has this bond developed so quickly..." Zanira looked to Yumitaya as she spoke softly.
" When sis arrived we sat at her ship until she calmed down but when you left, Kaya and I went to the cave you showed me and meditated together. We spent all day together. And... I had a nightmare that night and Kaya let me sleep with her because i was scared. " Yumitaya spoke softly as the pain in her arm eased.
Zanira looked stunned for a moment before speaking. " You bonded so closely in a day? Amazing.. Is she alright? "
Yumitaya spoke softly as she burst into tears. " I don't know if she is alright but someone hurt her! Why? "
" It may be part of her training sweety. We won't know until she returns. For now go and get some rest. " Zanira smiled softly as Yumitaya nodded and tried to stop crying.
Kalina spoke softly as Yumitaya walked away. " Is this level of bond possible so quickly? "
" There is a lot we don't know about Kaya. Force bonds are common but to form one this quickly is rare. " Zanira spoke with confusion and curiosity in her voice as a ship landed nearby. Once the engines had powered down, Satele Shan climbed out of the cockpit and ran to Zanira before hugging her tightly. " I have missed you so much Ki Aki. "
As Satele Shan looked into Zanira's eyes, Zanira spoke softly. " As i have missed you Ki Diti. It is good to have you here. You are aware of what is happening? "
Satele Shan nodded slowly before hugging Zanira tightly again.
Caverns
" This cavern will allow you to be more agile than before. Use your surroundings and defend yourself. "
Yumikaya looked around slowly as three male humans materialised. Yumikaya sighed and ignited her lightsabre before entering the Sokan combat stance. As the first male lunged forward, Yumikaya dodged to the right and used a rock to launch upwards while spinning to create a whirlwind of sweeping strikes. As the first male dodged, the second lunged forward as Yumikaya landed. Yumikaya landed and rolled forward before sliding on her knees to block the strike.
As she stood, Yumikaya felt a searing pain in the side of her thigh as a strike from the third male connected. As Yumikaya cried out in pain, The second male struck downwards but Yumikaya dodged just in time. As she stood, All three lunged at her at once. Before Yumikaya could react to what was happening, Her marks glowed brightly as she felt the force surge through her. As if time was slowing around her, Yumikaya moved forward and made three fast sweeping slashes to the chest, side and back of each male before lunging past them and landing in ready stance.
As the frost in the cavern settled, Yumikaya's marks dimmed to a faint glow and the three males fell to the floor, Each with three sabre cuts on them before disappearing.
" Simply marvellous. You have tapped into the force and magnified your movement speed. Excellent. Now continue to practice this form without opponents. We will be watching. "
Yumikaya nodded but before she began, Yumitaya's voice echoed into her mind.
" Kaya?! Are you okay? "
Yumikaya closed her eyes as her voice echoed into the force.
" I am okay Taya. Just some cuts but i will be fine. Are you alright? "
" No i am not alright! I felt your pain! Do you have any idea how scared i have been?! "
" You.. felt my pain? Taya i promise i am alright and i am sorry for scaring you but i really am alright. Just learning a new lightsabre form and i was a little slow to block. Don't worry i will be fine. I will see you soon. "
As Yumikaya opened her eyes again and entered her combat stance, A priestess spoke calmly.
" Your bond with her is very strong indeed. She feels your pain and emotions. "
" Well we spent an entire day and night together. We were inseparable. " Yumikaya began practising her movements as the priestess continued to speak.
" Ah i see. Yes such a close bond could be forged over such a short time with the force flowing through you both freely. It was an emotional time that day? "
" Yes. It was the day i met her. " Yumikaya did not stop her practice as she spoke.
" Yes that would be emotional. It is good to share this bond with your sister. Over time, You may be able to channel the force through one another. Even when you tap into your magnification. "
" So Taya could use the force like i did when my marks glowed? " Yumikaya spoke with a tone of surprise in her voice as she practised the agility and mobility that Sokan required.
" That is correct. "
" So i should build upon the bond i share with her when i return? " Yumikaya spoke in puffs as she darted around the cavern making sweeping strikes and swift dodge movements.
" I would recommend it. Spend as much time as you can together to develop the bond further. "
" Then that is what i shall do. I don't want to be on my own anymore. I am not alone now and i don't want to be ever again. I want Taya with me all the time if possible. " Yumikaya slowed to a halt as she fell to her knees from exhaustion.
" That is for the two of you to decide. For now you are learning Sokan quickly but your technique needs more work. Come down this tunnel and there will be a warm room for you. Rest and we will continue when your wounds heal. "
Yumikaya nodded as her lightsabre deactivated. After walking down the indicated tunnel, Yumikaya laid down in the warmth of the fire in the centre of the room and quickly fell asleep.
The Next Day
Yumikaya stretched slowly as she awoke. Once fully awake, Yumikaya checked her wounds. Her leg wound was healing quickly but the wound on her shoulder was still deep and very tender. After practising some Sokan techniques to test how much movement her wound allowed, Yumikaya walked out into the training cavern. As she stepped into the large open cavern, Yumikaya saw the priestesses appear slowly.
" Good morning little one. I trust your wounds are not too painful for more training? "
" My arm hurts but i can train. I'll do my best. " Yumikaya continued to stretch her arm slowly as one of the priestesses spoke.
" Good. Now we are aware that you are trained in Shii-Cho and Makashi so you will continue to practice Sokan until you have mastered it. Then we can teach you the other basic forms and other forms that may or may not suit future combat styles and scenarios. Continue your practice and try not to add injury to the wounds you already have yes? "
' Of course. I will be careful. " Yumikaya bowed respectfully as the priestesses left down a dark tunnel before continuing her training in the form Sokan. After several hours, Yumikaya had almost mastered Sokan. As she sat down to rest, Yumikaya closed her eyes and began to meditate. Yumikaya took a deep breathe before opening herself to the force. As the force began to flow through her like water, Yumikaya thought about her little sister.
Meanwhile
" It feels so weird mom. It's like Kaya is always around. Her presence is always here and i can always feel her through the Force. " Yumitaya spoke softly as Zanira meditated.
" Yes.. Yes i can sense it. The bond between you is very strong. If the bond continues to develop... " Zanira sighed softly as Satele Shan spoke.
" They may become linked in life and death through the Force. It may also allow the Force to flow between them. " Satele Shan spoke softly.
" And that's... good... right? " Kalina sat down next to Yumitaya and tickled her playfully.
" Yes and no. A bond of that strength can be both advantageous and very dangerous. But time will tell. " Zanira spoke calmly as Kalina and Yumitaya played happily.
One Week Later
During the week, Yumikaya had all but mastered Sokan. The style suited her. Highly mobile with graceful sweeping attacks and battlefield integration made the form highly versatile. When integrated with segments of the Shii-Cho and Makashi forms, Yumikaya was quickly developing a confined space variation as well. As Yumikaya was practising her form, The priestesses entered the cavern.
" How goes your training little one? And your wounds? "
" My wounds have almost fully healed. I feel that my training is going well but..." Yumikaya sat down slowly.
" But you also feel that there is something missing. Our force apparitions are useful for training but they lack the ability to make judgements and quick thinking. You feel that you need a real opponent. "
" Yes and no. I know i am not ready for a real opponent and i want to be ready before i attempt that but i feel like i need to learn something... more. And i don't mean power or secrets. I mean i need to learn more about the Force and combat to better improve my capability. " Yumikaya spoke calmly yet confidentally as the priestesses sighed contently.
" Truly she is a most marvellous student. "
" To recognise one's own failings, need for learning and improvement is very wise little one. "
" Very well. We shall teach you more about the Force. Come, Sit with us. Let us meditate together. "
" Thank you priestesses. I appreciate all your training and patience. " Yumikaya stood and bowed deeply and respectfully before walking towards the priestesses and sitting with them.
" As you know little one, The Force resides in all living things. As we have said, The Force takes no sides and is not inherently light or dark. We are Force Priestesses. While we appear to be here, We are in fact many parsecs away in what the ancient Force Sensitives once called the Wellspring of Life. There we reside and exist to guide Force Sensitives in the greater mysteries of the force. However over time we developed a way to project ourselves across space within the Force while remaining in the Wellspring. This allows us to seek out candidates for the path without leaving. While there are few such places of focused Force energy, The wellspring as it's name depicts, Is concentrated towards life. The Force however remains much of a mystery even to us. What we do know however is that the Force has its own will. We are simply a representative between the Living Force and the Cosmic Force. "
" What is the difference between the Living and Cosmic force? Are they separate? " Yumikaya listened to the priestesses as they did what they could to explain the force to her.
" Yes and no. While the Living Force is the Force that all living things feel, The Cosmic Force, Like the Living Force, Is an aspect. The Living Force is the energy of all things that have ever lived and feeds into the Cosmic Force. The Living Force allows the use of the Force in living things such as yourself, And makes it possible for Force apparitions such as the spirits of fallen Force Sensitives to exist. The Cosmic Force however is different. The Cosmic Force is fed by the Living Force and connects all things. The Cosmic Force makes it possible to communicate through the Midichlorians. The Midichlorians then allow the being they inhabit to feel the Force as a whole. "
" So... The Force is like a never ending cycle? " Yumikaya was thoroughly confused but was trying her best to understand.
" Indeed. A cycle of life, death and renewal. Always striving for balance. "
" I think i understand. If the balance leans too far in any one way, Life will radically change right? " Yumikaya spoke curiously.
" Correct. "
" Which is why you need someone that can not only keep the balance but teach others to do the same? " Yumikaya stood up once again as the priestesses nodded.
" Now that we have covered the explanation of the force, We should get back to my training. I am starting to miss my family too much. " Yumikaya looked to the priestesses as they rose from the ground.
" Then continue your practice. When you feel you are ready for the next step, We will speak again. "
Yumikaya nodded as the priestesses once again floated into the dark tunnel they disappeared into while Yumikaya ignited her lightsabre and continued practising Sokan. After nearly an entire day, Yumikaya fell to her knees in exhaustion.
" I.. I am almost there... " Yumikaya panted heavily before standing and walking tenderly to the room she slept in. Once in the warmth of the fire, Yumikaya collapsed and fell asleep.
Early Morning
Yumikaya awoke in the early hours of the morning feeling refreshed but very sore from her training the previous day. As she stretched gingerly, Yumikaya thought upon the words of the priestesses. " Always striving for balance. "
" Balance... Balance... " As Yumikaya repeated the word over and over, She closed her eyes and entered a trance like state. " Balance... Balance in all things. That would mean that i need balance in my emotions and thoughts before i can achieve balance with the force... but how do i do that... "
While Yumikaya meditated, A soft feminine voice echoed from deep within the force. " Balance in one's emotions requires you to understand your emotions. Emotions are powerful things and can shape who you are as a person. Trying to balance them without understanding them first is like throwing a rock into a pond and expecting it to float. "
" But.. How can i truly understand my emotions? I don't even understand why i feel them..." Yumikaya kept her eyes closed as the voice echoed again.
" Then you already have somewhere to start. That being said i would not tell you to ignore your feelings. The Jedi code states that there is no emotion. But without emotion we cannot understand the emotions and needs of others. Without emotion, We cannot be compassionate, We cannot be merciful and most importantly, We can never truly find peace. Emotions are part of who we are and part of how we live. How we express them and what emotions we choose to focus on is what defines our own balance. But that is not an answer to your question. Just another question to find your own answer. "
" So i should look within myself for the understanding i seek? " Yumikaya let the thought of her statement repeat itself in her mind as she breathed slowly.
" Yes. The only one who can find understanding of your emotions is you. Balance in all things. "
" Balance in all things... Balance with my emotions. The code... i cannot favour any one emotion. I must feel and acknowledge them all to understand them... " Yumikaya was deep in her trance while she spoke as memories flooded her mind and a mix of emotions swelled within her heart. As her emotions flowed and intertwined, Yumikaya's tattoo's began glowing slowly. The flower on her forehead was glowing brightly as the glow traced its way down the lines covering her body inch by inch. As each emotion and memory burst into her mind and intertwined with the others, The flower on her forehead glowed brighter and then dimmed like a wave upon the ocean.
" Each emotion is a string that life pulls. Each string is tied to a different trigger. The death of a loved one may trigger sadness or anger. An argument with a friend might trigger regret. Doing something unlawful may trigger guilt. Each emotion is a reaction to something that we do, say, experience or witness. "
" A trigger... Like a wound creates pain? " Yumikaya spoke almost subconsciously as her trance deepened once again.
" Correct. "
" So to understand my own emotions i should pull the strings myself and memorise the reactions and effects? " Yumikaya sighed softly as her memories slowed.
" Now you are learning. Continue... "
The Surface
Yumitaya held her head tenderly as tears flowed down her cheeks.
" It's too much! Kaya's memories are all in my head... I can't take it... " Yumitaya cried heavily as the memories of her sisters childhood flowed through her mind like a raging river.
" Satele will you help me? " Zanira sat on one side of Yumitaya as Satele sat on the other.
" What are we doing? " Satele spoke curiously as she sat down.
" We are going to try and shield Taya's mind from Kaya's until her training is complete. Her mind cannot take the strain of another person's memories. It is overwhelming her just feeling the same emotions as Kaya. We need to ease the burden. " Zanira closed her eyes as she placed one hand on Taya's forehead and the other on the back of her head before Satele did the same as they both began focusing on Yumitaya. Slowly, Yumitaya began to stop crying as her mind calmed.
" It's getting better but it's still too much. Why is this happening? " Yumitaya sobbed softly as Satele spoke.
" Your bond with Kaya has formed but it is still raw. Unrefined. It is like a storm. Unrestricted, Unrefined and Unbridled. When Kaya returns i can help train you to refine your bond to a less intrusive degree. " Satele spoke softly as Yumitaya sighed heavily.
" Thank you.. " Yumitaya spoke softly as her mind slowly recovered from the torrent of memories that flooded her.
" Yes. Thank you Ki Diti. " Zanira smiled as Satele sighed happily.
" It is so nice to hear you call me that again... " Satele smiled as Zanira giggled contently.
In Orbit
" Are we ready to go to the surface and put our plan in motion? " Shae Vizla spoke cautiously as Mako giggled.
" Ara and I were born ready. Isn't that right love? " Mako spoke with unwavering confidence as Aratarus beamed proudly.
" Indeed. Our new toys are sure to give Orgus a run for his money. Let's get to work. " Aratarus smiled as Shae Vizla nodded and left to find Larkan.
Upon entering the cockpit, Shae Vizla found Larkan looking over Orgus Din's Jedi council file. " Whatchya got there Captain? "
" Just a wee tidbit of homework Shae. Aratarus said something yesterday that got me thinking.. " Larkan spoke distractedly as he studied the holo.
" And what words of wisdom did the Grand Champion bestow upon thee? " Shae Vizla giggled teasingly as Larkan sneered at her playfully.
" Well little miss jetpack, The almighty Grand Champion did so declare that a true hunter studies his prey before the hunt. " Larkan spoke with the same old Joystick attitude as Shae Vizla laughed happily.
" You know sometimes i just love that attitude of yours. And yes, Aratarus is right. A true hunter always studies the prey. As we must study ours. " Shae Vizla smiled as Larkan handed her a holodisk.
" Get to it then. I have his Jedi record. You can study his military contributions. " Larkan smirked in jest as Shae Vizla poked her tongue out.
" Military huh? Didn't think Jedi had any military affiliation. " Shae Vizla spoke curiously as Aratarus entered the cockpit.
" War has a way of changing priorities. Though they claim to be peace keepers, Jedi have answered to the Republic for as long as anyone can remember. Whether they realise it or not, Jedi are just another asset for the Republic to use. " Aratarus spoke plainly as Shae Vizla started to read the holodisk.
" Then let us see what this asset has been up to shall we? " Shae Vizla spoke calmly as Aratarus helped her read the holodisk.
The hunt for the rogue Jedi is about to begin.
Will our hunters catch they're prey or be outwitted by a council member?
Read on to find out.
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