Temple Life

Substitute Mace

Caleb sat in front of the Bacta tank Depa Billaba was in when their Clones came in. He looked up at the Clones then stood up.

"Well, we got our next assignment. As soon as the General wakes up we're going to Kaller." Styles said.

"Great, who gave the orders?" Caleb asked.

"They came with the Jedi that just arrived. He told us to tell you he would meet with you soon kid." Gray replied.

"A few of us are heading back to the flag ship for some drinks. You're welcome to join us?" Styles asked.

"I'll catch up with you guys later. I'm still too young to drink legally. Even if I am technically older then most of you." Caleb replied.

"Your loss kid. It's not like age matters in a Clone bar though. They don't check IDs." One of the other clones said.

"Yeah but my master and your general would have all of our heads if she found out." Caleb replied.

"The kid's got you there Mixx." Big-Mouth says.

"Well then see you around Lieutenant." Shoots says. "Maybe we can share a meiloorun later."

"I'll look forward to it." Caleb answered.

The Clones left leaving Caleb alone with his master again. He placed his hand on the tank.

"They really miss you master, so do I." He says quietly.

"She'll be up soon. She knows both of us are waiting on her." A deep voice behind him says. Caleb felt a hand placed on his shoulder. "Figured I would find you here. Most Padawan's refuse to leave their masters even when they are injured."

"Master Windu, what do I owe the honor?" Caleb asked turning around recognizing the voice.

"I think you already know that answer. I believe I made you a promise last time we meet Padawan Dume." Mace replied.

"I believe you did master." Caleb replied.

"Well then let's get started." Mace said with a smile. "Follow me."

Caleb followed Master Windu into a training room. Mace stood in the middle and ignited his lightsaber. The purple blade shined brightly.

"I know your master prefers form III, but there's another from that I'd like you to master." Mace said then turned around to face Caleb. "Padawan Dume, would you like to learn Form VII?"

"Of course!" Caleb practically screamed as he ignited his own lightsaber. "So Form VII is real?"

"It is and only three Jedi have mastered it. Master Yoda, your master, and myself. Being Depa's padawan you will be the fourth." Mace said.

"Isn't it forbidden to teach?" Caleb asked.

"That's why only my line teaches it. As the newest addition you will be expected to learn and eventually teach it. Maybe one day you'll teach it to your own padawan." Mace explained.

The two practiced for hours. After practice Mace told Caleb stories about Depa's training.

Everyday for a week the two would spend two hours in meditation. Then four hours of practicing form VII. They took a break for lunch, then spared for a while. After the sparing session they would visit Depa. Finally they ended the day with Mace telling more stories about Depa as a padawan.

Caleb Dume loved it.

One morning Caleb and Mace went to visit Depa in the tank when her eyes opened. Caleb was the first to notice.

"Master? You're up!" He said as he stood in front of the tank.

Mace looked up. "Depa." He said then turned to the droid. "She's awake. Can you pull her out?"

"Yes sir. I'll give her a full check up." The med droid said.

Depa was pulled out and given a towel to dry off.

"You two have fun without me?" She asked.

"You could say we did. The kid has talent." Mace replied putting his hand on Caleb's shoulder.

"Well Padawan I guess you'll have to tell me all about it." Depa responded.

"We'll give you some privacy while you change. I'll evaluate you later. Your padawan can fill you in on your assignment." Mace replied.

•The next chapter is going to be the last pre "New Dawn" era chapter. After that it will switch to Kanan and Ezra training.

•May the force be with you always

•Cass