Another chapter up and ready to go. I have the next few chapters written (just because I was on a roll) that just need to be typed. We're back to Maul and Ezra again. Just a heads up you will see Ezra refer to Maul as master once or twice through out the chapter.
Transitioning training was not only necessary in Maul's eyes, but was also symbolic for the transformation of Ezra's identity. It had been decided that due to Ezra passing his trial, Maul decided that it was time to move Ezra along, all the while continuing his combat and Force training simultaneously.
"It's time we started your lightsaber training." Maul declared. "Now I know you lack a lightsaber of your own, due to our time together on Malachor. So I have one for you to use."
Maul handed Ezra a duel bladed lightsaber. Ezra studied it thoroughly in silence. It had a sleek design and looked as though it had never been touched, almost as though it was brand new. This caused Ezra to look at his new master with a confused look.
"If you've had this lightsaber all this time, then why do you still use that old thing master?" Ezra questioned, pointing at Maul's lightsaber.
Maul seemed phased ever so slightly by the question, but did appreciate that Ezra asked regardless.
"Because, this lightsaber is mine. I crafted it myself. And while it may be an old, beat up relic that has seen better days and required repairing, I am too attached to it to let it got now. Besides, that lightsaber is not mine to use, and by giving it to you, it gives me some sense of peace knowing it's in good hands. So you should consider yourself honored. Now we will begin with using one of the blades."
Ezra gasped, almost as if he was genuinely offended.
"But I already know how to use a single bladed lightsaber. Why wouldn't I be proficient enough to jump right into using both?"
"The reason, is because these kind of lightsabers handle differently compared to your traditional single blade. The hilt is longer for one thing, so not only do you have to adjust to the feel of that, you'll also have to adjust to how both ends work in order for you to utilize both simultaneously to its full potential. And remember, unlike me, who's had years to master this lightsaber, you have never wielded such a blade before in your life. So you are required to master the mechanics of the blade before you can use it perfectly in its entirety. Now let's begin."
Maul ignited both ends of his lightsaber, while Ezra followed his master's instructions and ignited only one of the blades.
Maul approached, making sure not to go overboard since Ezra was still a beginner. The blades clashed and training had begun. Ezra had started to see what Maul had foretold as far as handling. Its extended hilt provided itself as a challenge, as he tried to deflect Maul's strikes.
Several hours would pass before Ezra started showing progress. Several parts pf Ezra's body had been burnt due to Maul's lightsaber striking him. Maul also had Ezra change to the other side of his lightsaber for practice on the other side.
"Good progress Ezra." Maul applauded. "Keep this up and you will be using the lightsaber to its full ability in a matter of days."
Ezra gave Maul a faded smile as gratitude for the compliment. He shut the lightsaber down, knowing that this was the end of the day's training. All he had to do was wait for Maul to dismiss him before he could return to his quarters, of which Maul did with a wave of his hand.
Maul had since moved Ezra and his bed into his quarters temporarily as a precaution, in the event Ezra had tried to pull another stunt. Ezra didn't seem to mind in his new mental state, mostly due to the fact that Maul was only there at night. But on the bright side, Maul did remove the shock collar on his throat, claiming that since Ezra was now in close quarters and has accepted his fate, there was no real reason to keep it on. But the threat of reapplying it was still present, in the event Ezra ever broke his trust again.
Ezra usually spent his free time meditating on that day's events. It usually helped him stay calm. Unfortunately, his mind still trapped all of the negativity of his actions and Maul's harsh words inside, embracing him in the darkness. It served as a constant reminder of just how far gone he was.
I didn't make it sound too complicated with Maul's explanation about a single bladed and a double bladed lightsaber, did I? I just knew I wanted to address that there was a difference. The next chapter we will still be with Maul and Ezra. We only have one more chapter dedicated to the Ghost crew (Kanan and Sabine along with Ketsu), but that won't be until chapter 16.