Crystalline Entity - Alternate Record

by Cpt. Lynx

This is the story of how Darth Imperius, the Emperor of the Eternal Alliance, found himself on Terra. Burdened by the ghosts of his past, will he be able to fulfil his purpose and find happiness, or will the darkness consume him? As a fair warning, this contains dark and mature themes in much greater detail than the other version, so discretion is advised.

1. Day 1: New world, new problems

Disclaimer: I don't own anything. Crystalline is property of PixelFade and SWTOR is property of BioWare and EA.
Also, this story is co-written with a friend of mine, who wishes to remain anonymous, so the credit is not mine alone.

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It's been a month now. Only a single month since I transcended to something that can only be called a god. The sheer power Valkorion held is staggering. But now… now that strength is mine. He was a threat to all life in the galaxy, probably even beyond, so he needed to be stopped. And I did. Apparently, everyone knew it had to be me. After all, I was already the most powerful of the fourteen chosen of Valkorion. But claiming his and even Vaylin's powers as my own through Force Walking catapulted my strength to unknown bounds.
Luckily the galaxy has calmed down a bit now. With Valkorion and Vaylin gone, and Arcann and Senya laying low under the Alliance's protection, there is peace at last.
… At least for now. My Eternal Alliance is currently helping in distributing resources to the devastated worlds, but I heard word that the Republic and the Empire are both planning for yet another war.

Now, I'd better use this calm to further my understanding of my new powers. What's quite obvious is my expanded sense of… everything, as well as the sheer scale of power at my disposal. But even so, there are plenty of rituals and techniques that are locked to Valkorions memories, that I don't quite understand yet. Most of those I learned from his memories so far are quite evil, like the one he used on Nathema and Ziost…
But I'm certainly not lacking in the department of destructive capabilities. Just yesterday, I sparred against Oberon, A'den, and all the other powerful Force users and skilled combatants of my counsel on my own, to get a good feel of my newfound powers. They didn't stand a chance.
On the other side, I've learned advanced techniques that are actually useful - and balanced in the Force - like the Phase Jump. And right now, I find myself outside of the Alliance HQ on Odessen, in the wilderness just by the elevator.
The wind bristles through my hair as I sit cross-legged on the grass. The flames of the candles I placed around me in a circle are dancing with the breeze.

I focus on my meditation, but... something washes over my senses and I blink my eyes open. A bright light illuminates the wilderness, blinding me until all I can see is a stark whiteness. I throw my arm over my eyes to shield them from the light. After a few seconds pass, the light seems to dim, until there is no light left. I open my eyes again to see a dark blackness, dotted with white specks reminiscing of stars. White lines outline dark grey bands that snake in all directions, while I am floating above one such path myself. It seems as if I am in space, but not quite. This place is saturated with the Force... almost as if it was the Force itself. And something about this feels familiar…
As soon as that thought crosses my mind, I am dragged along by an invisible force, pushing me in the direction of a large white triangle with a circle in it. I have just enough time to see the picture of a grassy hill before I am drawn into it.
Another blinding light forces me to cover my eyes. Slowly but surely, the light around me seems to fade. Despite having been scooped up against my will by an unknown force, I didn't feel the characteristic sensation of malevolent minds trying to contain me. In fact, there were only dim echoes of sapient intent as the tunnel closed behind me - those of slim hope.

Carefully, I unwind and bring my arm down, squinting at a pale blue sky as I lie down. Odd, wasn't I sitting just a moment ago? A mild breeze tousles my hair, blades of grass tickle my ear, soft and eminently alive as I look into the sky. It is completely free of the chemicals characteristic of burning spacecraft fuels. No one on this world had ever reached the stars - or at least, not by conventional means. These lands… are kissed by life and nearly formless Force energy. Wherever I had just been moved to... hums with power like few other locations I visited, and even fewer had been so lacking in intent.

I begin to look around, flabbergasted, and mutter to myself.
"Where in the Force... am I?"

The rolling, meadowy hills I lay upon stretch on for kilometres in every direction except... the southeast, if the magnetic field is to be trusted, and it usually is.
In that direction is a forest, even more alive than these hills, and seemingly just as devoid of the presence of technology.

"Poi?"

Just as I was about to stand up, I glance in the direction of the sound.
Sitting there is a blue blob with little eyes and a mouth that makes a curious expression. The strange creature seems confused, or curious. Maybe even both, like me.
It has seemingly no internal organ structure but reacts to my eyes with a humanoid excitement.
It bounces up to me, bubbling like gumbah pudding while continuing to make that sound.
"Poi poi!"

I cock an eyebrow in curiosity.
"Hello there little blob. What are you? I've never seen anything like you..."

With a chomp, it bites down on my nose. Nothing leaves - except Force energy. A little nub of the energy that has concentrated there breaks off and the little thing swallows, looking all too pleased with itself. It smiles at me.
"Poi!"

"Hey!"
I jump back in one nimble movement.

It reacts with surprise, bouncing backwards and away with surprising speed and height.
"POI?!"

"I need that, thank you very much."

The blob pouts at me, looking dejected.
"...poipoi..."

I continue to eye the blob suspiciously, but also begin to analyze it. It could eat my Force energy, after all...

Soon enough, however, its greed overcomes its surprise, and once more it begins to advance. I take a step back.
"No! Keep your distance, you blob."

My energy is jumbled from the transfer, mixed with strange residue that will not listen to my commands - just like the drooling dollop of blue. This is not good…

"Argh, stay put I said!"
I begin to stumble back some more, beginning to feel unnerved by the situation. I reach out to my powers but find them jumbled, blocked.
With time, I could rectify this - in fact, the problem will solve itself given time - but unfortunately, I can barely muster a Force Push right now, something that causes the blob to jiggle and laugh as it chomps down on it.
It begins to bounce, but there is better news. No others of its kind seem to be nearby. Perhaps those woods hold something that preys on this creature?
"Poi...?"

That seems to be my best bet. I turn on my heels and run into the forest at a reasonably fast pace.
Its bounces become longer and faster as I leave, as do its frantic, sad-sounding pleas that almost make it seem like this creature doesn't understand why I am running - but that is clearly a ruse. If this planet was discovered at all, I could completely understand the utter lack of people - any world with creatures like this, no matter how verdant and beautiful its nature, would be quite secure from outsiders with creatures that ate the Force involved in its food chain.
"POOOOOOOI! POOOOOOOOOOOOI!"

I am forced to increase my pace, as to my surprise, the blob keeps pace with a series of nimble bounces.
I weave across the trees and begin to speed up. Luckily, I have quite a bit in reserve.
But I am so fixed on escaping this blob and leading it to some monster's den that I do not notice the telltale glint of sunshine on metal and the subtle sound of clinking until it is far too late.

"POI!"

The person turns.
"Wha-"

Her eyes widen at the same time mine do, just as I barrel into her.
"Ah, kr-"

"What th- ahh!"

Honed reflexes kick in and I try to stop myself, but the first law of motion has something to say against that. And so, I collide painfully with the other person. I topple over, along with the person I ran over, but my hands catch my fall.
"Oof."

Whumps, clatters, and thumps resound as she hits the ground.
"Oww..."

When I open my eyes, I see a woman.
Her eyes are shut and her mouth is twisted in a grimace. Her long blonde hair is splayed out around her, covering the grass in golden strands. She wears silver-white full plate armour with sheets of armour hanging off her hips, resembling a Mandalorian kama, along with a white cloak that extends the kama-like appearance to her ankles.
I notice that one of her dainty hands is covered by a leather glove and the other by a metal gauntlet with a blue sphere on the back of her hand.
My gaze travels upward, and it is then that I first get a good look at the face of the person I ran over. I am unable to tear my gaze away at first as my breath hitches in my throat. This woman... is easily one of the most beautiful women I have ever seen, if not the most beautiful. Though somewhat bruised, her face is well-sculpted in a way I have not seen in... well, ever.

As she lets out a groan, I notice the pain she must be in. That is to be expected when colliding with such a high-density object like myself. I quickly scan her for interior damage. I find several damaged bones. None are broken yet, but they will if they are stressed much more.

She reaches up and unfastens her dented helm, head clearly ringing. She rubs her forehead, before opening her gloriously sapphire blue eyes to gaze at me with equal parts curiosity and annoyance.
"Could you... get off of me, please?"

It takes me a moment, but then I register she addressed me and blink, pulled back into the moment.
"Huh? Oh! Yes, yes of course."

I stand up with relative ease, then offer her my hand.
"I am deeply sorry. Are you hurt?"

"Thank you."
She accepts the hand and shakes her head.
"A little, but nothing that won't heal."

She then cocks her head.
"Are you hurt? And what were you running from?"

Her voice is soft and smooth, and her question carries genuine concern. At this moment I notice the vibroblade hanging on her hip. Is she a Jedi?

I dust off my trusty royal robes.
"No, I'm fine. I am sorry again. I was trying to get away from one of the vilest and most dangerous predators I've seen to this day."

"Poi!"
The blob pokes its head out from behind a tree at this exact moment.

"Gah!"
I jump back a solid meter.
"Stay back!"

The lady looks at the blob, looks at me, then looks at the blob again. Then, she smiles.
"Aww, a pango! Let's help you get away from the nasty predator."

She reaches for the blob.
"So, where is it? I don't see it there."

"No! That is the predator."

As she holds the creature in her hands, her eyes narrow at me.
"You were running from a pango?"

"Poi."
The 'pango' seems to nod vigorously.

"If that's what you call that blue blob, then yes. That thing... it eats energy. Absolutely horrific."

"Yes, it does. I can tell that this little guy is very hungry for all the... crystals you're carrying..."
She blinks.
"Do you have crystals on you?"

I blink.
"Uhm... Not many?"

She shrugs and holds out a gauntleted hand. On the back, it has a gemstone of a light blue colour, and it glows as she focuses. As the hand opens, the crystal begins to flash faster and faster, she grows more and more confused.
"Wait... you're the source of all this energy? How?"

"I don't know. All I know is that that thing tried to eat me."

"They do that, but... I don't see any crystals on you..."
She cocks her head.
"Can I check your ears?"

I blink.
"My ears?"

I tilt my head in confusion. Why would she want to see my ears?

"Yes, your ears. Are they pointed?"

"I... don't think so?"
I brush some of my hair aside so that my ear pokes out.

"No, huh... Well... you said you had crystals. What kinds? They must be very high purity."

I smirk.
"They are."

I then unclip the metal cylinder from my hip and hold it in my hand.
"They're used to power my lightsaber."

The pango bounces out of her arms and advances towards me again.

"Light... saber? A sword made of light?"

I backpedal again.
"Seriously, stay put!"

"You say the oddest things. Pangos are harmless!"

"Well, it didn't try to eat you, did it?"

"Well, that makes sense, doesn't it? You're absolutely covered in crystal energy - enough to kill anyone in the world. But why? What sort of crystals are in this 'lightsaber'?

"I... do not know. I'm currently not doing anything out of the ordinary... for my standards."

"'For your standards', huh?"

I quickly check if my energy works properly again. Nope. It's better, but this weird energy keeps messing with how it flows. Well, I have at least some measure of control over it, so I can continue. I activate my lightsaber to check if it works as well.
The blade ignites in my hands with its distinctive sound. I fondly gaze at the black blade, emitting a dark blue light. It fits quite well to my robe, if I do say so myself.
"Good. It still works. Then that didn't mess with it. That's reassuring."

The lady steps back in surprise, her hand going to her own weapon as her hair bounces from the motion. A weapon that appears to be a mundane sword made from steel and what look like alchemic augmentations. I've... read about that. Back, at the beginning of the ancient Jedai'i, before even the proto-sabers, the Force users of old used augmented blades similar to this one, forged in the Force. But I digress, now is not the time to ponder the nature of her sword.

I deactivate my weapon, put it back at my belt, and look up at the woman.
"Oh, sorry. Did I startle you?"

"Yes. I've never seen something like that before."

"Oh, right. Given how you didn't recognize the name earlier, I should have guessed that and have warned you accordingly. My apologies. It was not my intent to startle you."

And now that I look... this lady, like her environment, seems absolutely swimming with Force energy - though it doesn't seem like she has access to most of it. This is especially true for the golden light buried in her heart, flickering dimly and barely responding to her use of the Force.
I make a mental note of that for later.
Given her beauty and effortless grace even in the face of the strange and new, it is easy for me to imagine that she has never been without the gentle touch of the Living Force.
She speaks up with that pleasant voice of hers.
"What... are you then? You look like a human, but you say the oddest things."

She shakes her head.
"I'm sorry, I've been just so confused I've forgotten my manners. What is your name?"

I blink.
"It would seem that the same has happened to me."

I make a formal and respectful bow and smile at her.
"My name is Xerath Kallig. A pleasure to make your acquaintance, miss."
I don't deem it necessary to introduce me with my full title. 'Darth Xerath 'Imperius' Kallig, Emperor of the Eternal Alliance' is quite a mouthful, most of which she probably wouldn't even understand.

She stiffens slightly, surprised, before responding with a natural curtsey.
"I am pleased to meet you, Xerath Kallig. My name is Leanna Dawn. If I may say so, your name is... as strange as the circumstances we find ourselves in."

I scratch my cheek.
"Yeah, it is not exactly common."

Her motion makes me eminently aware of the fact that her light armour includes a skirt. Not even the armour skirt I noticed earlier, but a normal one of blue fabric.
I note myself muttering absently.
"But Dawn, you said? How fitting…"

She doesn't seem to have heard me or just ignores my muttering.
"What exactly happened that you ended up in this place... um... Lord...? Kallig?"

"Kind of you to address me as such, but I somehow get the feeling that my titles have little worth here. As for what happened, that is something that I would like to know as well."

She raises an eyebrow.
"You... don't know?"

I look around myself, probably just seeming the slightest bit lost.
"If I wouldn't know any better, I'd assume that this is a dream."

She shakes her head a bit, loosening slightly.
"Why? Why would you think that?"

I mutter to myself again.
"I knew I shouldn't have eaten that Gorak yesterday."

"The... what?"

"Eh, just something I've been warned of not to eat. Unimportant. As for your question, one moment I'm... meditating, and the next moment I'm here."

I throw a glance at the pango blob.
"And then I was about to get eaten. That is all so surreal, I hypothesize that I have fallen asleep."

She looks down at the pango.
"He doesn't want to eat you, just your energy. He's harmless."

The pango smiles at her.
"Poi!"

I arc my brow.
"I am my energy."

"W- I'm sorry, I don't understand. Even elves that store their magical energy internally aren't damaged by pangos. What is it you are trying to say?"

I blink.
"What are elves?"

She sighs almost in relief as I ask a question that she can understand being asked.
"They look like humans but are a bit different. Different magic, different societies, lots of nature, pointy ears. I don't really have an in-depth summary in mind. They're pretty interesting."

I nod along.
"They certainly sound so."

"But even they aren't hurt by pangos."
She frowns sadly at the little creature.
"How could you be afraid of such a thing? He's so cute!"

It smiles at her.
"Poi poi."

"I- I am not afraid. But I've faced a lot of predators so far, yet none would eat my energy, my essence."

I look at the blob.
"And while it does look cute and adorable, I'm half assuming it's just a ruse to get closer to their prey."

Then, I sigh.
"But I suppose I've been getting on your nerves for long enough. It's time for me to finally wake up from this weird dream."

She rolls her eyes.
"I can assure you that this is not a dream."

I lightly slap my cheeks.
"Indeed. It looks a lot more vivid than the visions I usually receive. But what is this if not a warning about the invasion of a race of energy-eating gelatinous beings?"

She tickles the creature's chin.
"Who could dream up something this cute being dangerous?"

Then, she looks up at me.
"What?"

I look back at her, looking her up and down again, then at my surroundings, before staring at my hand, and finally looking back at her again.
"No, this simply must be a dream."

I give her a most charming smile. Or, at least the most charming I can muster. Something about it most likely seems... off. Unused. It's because I'm not quite sure what to do exactly. I didn't find myself in a situation where I had to, nor want to charm someone.
"For only a dream could hold a woman as beautiful as you."

Despite my best attempt, she seems deeply... unimpressed.
"If you want to wake up, a little pain usually does the trick for me. Do you want help?"

I nod.
"Yes, please."

She punches me in the shoulder with her gauntleted hand. I feel the impact through my nanofabric robe and rub the spot. Her punch is nothing compared to what I already had to endure, but the strength behind it takes me by surprise nonetheless. I mutter softly.
"Ow..."

I then blink and look back up at her. Then I blink again.
"This... this really is no dream... is it?"

"You should be more careful. Some 'beautiful ladies' don't like it when people are vapid around them. And no, it isn't - or at least it isn't yours. It could still be mine, given how surreal you're acting, but I doubt it. Where did you get here from? As in - where were you before you were here in Meadowhill?"

I take a deep breath, noting how fresh and untainted the air tastes.
"I'll let you know that I stand by my words, but if they offended you, I'd like to apologize."

Then, I blink again.
"Before I was where?"

"Here, where we are. Meadowhill."

I draw a hand to my chin, cupping it between my index finger and thumb while placing my other hand on the elbow.
"I see... Well, I was in the... Garden of my... institution, meditating to learn a new technique. I felt an energy wash over me, saw a bright light, and now I'm here. Though, now that I think about it, there also may have been something else. A strange realm I passed... but at this point, I honestly have no idea what is real and what is not anymore."

"A... technique?"
She shakes her head.
"Nevermind that. So, you don't know how you got here, or where you were is in relation to Meadowhill, yes?"

I nod.
"That is absolutely correct."

I continue to cup my chin, deep in thought. Meadowhill? I have no idea what even this planet is. For all accounts, I could even be in a different galaxy altogether.

Her gentle voice calls me out of my musings.
"Can you tell me where on Terra your home is? If you have been displaced by a magical event - as your energy levels suggest - I should help you return home."

I blink.
"'Terra'?"

"It's the name of our world - or do you have another name for it where you come from?"

I look at her again, while I pace a few steps up and down.
"Uhm... you might think me crazy- er, you probably already do so... Uhm, the thing is... if my hypothesis is correct, then I'm most likely not from your world. I know no planet by the name of Terra."

She raises an eyebrow.
"Why should I believe you?"

I raise an eyebrow back.
"Why should you not? You already stated yourself that my name, my mannerisms, as well as my technology, is completely alien to you. Also, what would I gain by lying?"

"Why would not being from Terra change things about you?"

I ponder that for a moment.
"Huh. Fair enough. From the utter lack of traces of industrialization, I can guess that your society is rather local. Probably spanning around the continent, at most? You displayed knowledge that your world is more than the mere continent, however, which hints at the contact with other societies. And yet, everything about me is completely alien to you, is it not?"

"Yes? I think?"

"So, this leaves us with two possibilities. Either I am from a part of Terra your society has not yet made contact with, or I am not from this planet. And personally, I would certainly remember such a beautiful jewel."

"Yes, but - for example - pangos exist everywhere we've found. To not know of anything like them would imply that where you come from is almost completely devoid of magic. And... jewel?"

"Your planet. From what I can see so far, it seems to be a completely unspoiled, pristine jewel. Also, magic? Is that what you call the Force? Yes, I suppose I can see how you could come up with such a name. But what does the existence of these pangos have to do with the natural energy?"

"Pangos consume energy. The energy that rests in us for a time, the energy in crystals, and just in the world. They don't harm people - in fact, my academy tends to keep a few around so that we can get massages. Magical residue can build up, and having it removed helps future casting and feels nice. You should try it."

I glance at the blue blob, my gaze somewhat mellowed out compared to earlier.
"Well, if you say so, I may take your word for it. But I, for one, do not like my energy being siphoned. Nothing good ever came from it so far."

"It's not like he's actually eating something that's yours after all. Magic is something borrowed from the natural world. It's like anything else. We borrow energy, use it to do work, and then it returns to the natural world."

"Well, you're certainly correct to say that the energy is a part of the natural world. But if you say you just borrow it... that sounds unlike every other form of casting I know of. Because from where I'm from, we use the energy within us."

"Like the elves, who charge themselves with energy that they then utilize?"

I shrug. She mentions those elves again…
"As I do not know about these elves, I can neither confirm nor deny that. However, it does sound similar, though we do not charge ourselves as much as the outlying energy recharges us."

She frowns.
"So, you don't know where you need to go now, then?"

I nod.
"Exactly. I'd need to find out what kind of anomaly brought me here, and somehow replicate it to get back."

"Well, unfortunately, the kind of event you've been through isn't exactly precedented. I was only here investigating abnormal energy spikes, I didn't expect to find someone that emerged from them. You can go to the Mage Guild if you want help - it might be a long shot, but it's one of the only organisations that study magic on a large scale. If anyone can help, they can. I'd recommend the Academy at Illumia - it's your best bet for finding someone that might know something."

"Right. Illumia. Where's that?"

"Illumia? Oh, you head northwest along the road to the town of Meadowhill, then east towards Raven Pass, and..."
She stops to consider the consequences of sending someone who is lost off on a quest for a city they know only the name of.
"Actually, since I have something to report - you - you should probably come with me to Illumia. It would probably be simpler. I can't exactly force you to come - unless you feel like breaking a law - but if you want my help I'd appreciate it if I didn't need to write a whole bunch of paperwork to satisfy bureaucrats."
She blinks.
"Ah- I mean, if it should please you, you may accompany me on this journey."

I make a slight bow.
"I would be more than glad to accompany you. Your offer is most generous, you have my sincere gratitude."

Then, I look up with a genuine smile.
"But your manner of speaking seems to slip. You do not need to uphold yourself like you're in court. As I said, I doubt my titles are of any worth on this world, so I'll just be a wanderer that has lost his way."

"I... see."
Something seems to flicker.
"Thank you."

"You need not fear me thinking any less of you. In fact, you offering to help me despite our... unique meeting is more than I could have hoped for."
I continue to smile.
"So, feel free to call me Xerath, if you want."

She smiles slightly at me.
"Well, shall we be on our way, Xerath? Days don't last forever."

I nod and chuckle softly.
"I suppose they don't."

Then, I blink as I remember something.
"But wait. You said earlier that you wanted to see what kind of crystals I was carrying with me, right? Does that still hold true?"

She turns back to me.
"Yes."

I unclip my lightsaber from my belt again and gently levitate it over to her. On the way, the brown copper-looking cylinder with blue engravings begins to disassemble, giving the view clear to both the power crystal and the focus crystal.

Her eyes widen as she sees what I am doing to my lightsaber.

"These are the only two crystals I have with me, at the current."

"So, what elements are they?"

I blink.
"Elements?"

"Doesn't your magic have elements? Isn't it an expression of the pieces of the natural world?"

I arc a brow.
"What elements do you speak of, exactly? Just to make sure we're on the same track."

"You know, Earth, Water, Wind, Fire... and Shadow. Crystals are natural concentrations of these energies which humans gather and process in order to utilize their internal magic."

I put a hand to my chin again. I feel like this will be a common movement while I stay on this foreign world.
"Fascinating... Most fascinating indeed. Well, I suppose you could call the Light side and the Dark side two elements of the Force, but generally, yes, and no. Yes, the Force is an expression of the natural world, and we also use naturally formed crystals for a selected few things, like lightsabers, and no, as in they do not fall into one of the categories you described."

She sounds curious.
"Is your magic different?"

"As of yet, I cannot tell. But from what I can feel so far..."
I pause and take another look around, feeling for the Force around me.
"...my connection remains unchanged. So, my first hypothesis would thus be that my 'magic' draws upon the same source, but the method in which we do it differs. This will naturally require further observation, though."

"Well, if that's the case, I'll be sure to help with your observations if we could start walking."

I nod, the lightsaber reassembling itself as it floats back to me. I put it back at my belt and make an arm gesture that she can take the lead while smiling at her.
"Then I will gladly follow you, Leanna."

"However, if you're going to be looking into how our magic works, I'd start with pangos."
She gestures to the dejected-looking blob.
"He looks like he wants you to hold him."

I look at the blob with suspicion, which quickly melts away.
"Well, if you say that he is harmless... then I'll trust your judgement. But if he'll eat me, I'm blaming you."
I smile slightly at her.

"I think we would've noticed in over two thousand years of history that being close to pangos can kill you."
She looks around suspiciously.
"Unless... that's what they want you to think..."
She watches the pango with mock suspicion for a good three seconds before giggling musically.

It is one of the cutest sounds I have ever heard. Well, you don't hear happy laughter like that often in a war-torn galaxy, but still, I like it. I relax at the melodic sound and can't help but smile at her.
"Well, in that case, I should better keep a close eye on the little guy, hm?"

I reach out my arms towards her.

The pango seems slightly annoyed at me for doing all those things, before once again his fear is overruled by hunger. He jumps up, cuddling into my arms.
"poipoi..."

It really is cute.

"Awww, he likes you."
Leanna gives him a few small pats before beckoning me to come along.

I sigh as I naturally fall in step beside her.
"I'm sorry I reacted to you so extremely, little one. But please refrain from eating me from now on, okay? I'm sure we can still get along."

I can feel him slowly soaking up unused energy - mostly residue from whatever portal event happened, but a little of my own. With time, it becomes obvious that pangos are more analogous to herbivores than carnivores - they don't consume ghost-energy, they consume Force energy, the sort that my self channels. With that distinction, I relax even more, holding the small blob, who feels surprisingly solid and cool to the touch. His surface is smooth, feeling silken. He is quite pleasant to hold, I have to admit.
"You know, I encountered a lot of different xeno fauna throughout the years, but never before have I met something like this."

The reason the population of this planet keeps these creatures around is also obvious - it most commonly targets nodes where the flow of the Force has begun to stagnate and clog. If this pre-space civilization is so dependent upon the use of the Force, then mages having to cast frequently would appreciate an animal capable of excising energy buildup - something I had to spend months and years learning how to properly deal with.

Her voice calls me out of my musings again.
"Does your... world not have something like them?"

I shake my head.
"Not at all. Neither such... gelatinous beings, nor beings that absorb energy buildup."

"Why not? Does your world not have as much magic?"

For a moment the entire massive war I spent my life on flashes through my memory, before I can speak up.
"Well, actually, we do have a lot of magic users."

"You do? Then where are the magical creatures?"

"We are the magical creatures. And create some. Though I certainly could have gone without meeting those."

"Like War Wyrms..."

I blink.
"What's a War Wyrm? No, wait, stupid question, a worm-like creature bred for war. But what is it, exactly?"

"It's... does your world have legends about dragons - or some kind of creature that doesn't exist?"

"Hmm... there are legends about angels. Spacefaring creatures made out of light that supposedly appear to lost space travellers to guide them on the correct path. There is no scientific proof of them, but many supposed witnesses."

"Well, do they have a real-life parallel?"

"Of a 'magical' species?"

"Yes."

"Well, indirectly. As I said, I believe that we are the 'magical' creatures. And by 'we', I mean every living being. You see, the Force is an energy that touches every living being, and even some planets. This energy can also materialise in form of crystals. However, even if every being is connected by this energy, only a generally very, very small percentage can feel their connection. We call those beings 'Force sensitive', and when trained, they are our 'mages', or Force users as we know them."

"That's not really what I meant. I meant a creature that doesn't actually exist, having a similar creature that definitely does. But that is nice to know."

"Oh. In that case, I do not know of a fitting example, sorry."

"Well, there's a type of lizard that lives on Terra. We call it a wyvern. It can fly, and can occasionally be seen fighting or cooperating with feathered avians. Some people also use them for hunting."

"Because of course."

"Now, legend has it that they are the smaller cousins of a larger species of flying creatures - dragons - which lived in ancient times. Some legends feature dragons terrorizing villages, others show heroes conquering them, and a few show helpful dragons capable of speech. We don't really know if these legends are true or not, but someone, one day decided that they would be."

"Fascinating. On the world I come from, there are also creatures known as Krayt Dragons. Though they are very real, very deadly, and very unmagical."

She slows ever so slightly.
"We don't know what they did, but using the wyvern as a base, they created new dragons - with the expressed purpose of being living siege engines. They... served their purpose well. Most of the War Wyrms are dead now, but sometimes one shows up. It typically takes an entire team of experienced Mage-Knights to bring one down, and they don't always all make it home."

"I... see..."
I take a glance at her, noticing her subtle shift. Then I look away again.
"I may not know what a Mage-Knight is directly, but if it is anything like it sounds like, then it is a dangerous line of profession."

"It is. It's also hard, and important. A good Mage-Knight is hard to train, but they're Havengarde's first line of defence against magical horrors of all kinds. Esaria might be mostly tamed, but sometimes dangers do emerge from the Shadows."
Despite her noticeable unease, she speaks with conviction.

"Okay, so, if I got this right, Esaria is the continent we are on, and Havengarde the country? And judging by your armour, knowledge about magic, as well as the conviction you just spoke, I take it you are among those Mage-Knights?"

"I am. A Wind Knight of Falcon House."
I notice a small sigil on her gauntlet which looks like a stylised bird. This is probably her badge for the Mage-Knights.

"I see. That doesn't tell me much, but it does sound prestigious. So, you're basically a warden for those that can't defend themselves?"

"I suppose that is one way of putting it. Local guards can be expected to deal with bandits, but if a warbeast from the Great War comes out of the woods, their orders are typically to evacuate the village and call for help."

I nod.
"Sounds familiar."

Then, I give her a small, genuine smile.
"That is something I can respect, quite much indeed."

She doesn't respond to that, so a natural lull in conversation occurs. Hmm… I was so preoccupied with this lady and whatnot that I didn't even consider trying to contact HQ. I reach into one of my many pockets and pull out my holocom.
From the corner of my vision, I can notice how she moves her eyes from their forward position to study the device. As her curiosity is obvious, I decide to entertain her while I fiddle with the device.
"This is a holocommunicator, or holocom for short. In my world, we use it to contact others over long distances. I just thought that I could give it a shot to try contacting my people."

There is a curious sparkle in her eyes.
"That sounds amazing. How does it work?"

I arc a brow.
"Do you want the full scientific breakdown? Otherwise, I could tone the explanation down a bit."

"Uhhh... if I don't know the science will I understand what you're saying?"

"Hmm... I have the feeling that a lot of the underlying scientific theorems would be quite much to take in at once. Since I don't want to overwhelm you, I could try to explain it in a way that makes sense but isn't too deep in the tech. Would that be acceptable?"

"Okay."
She still seems passively aware of her surroundings but listens intently.

I then begin to work on the device, explaining its functions and principles in simple and relatively easy-to-understand terms. My attention is solely focused on her as I talk, but like her, I am still aware of our surroundings regardless. All the while, she is silent and eagerly absorbs every information I share with her.

She seems to process the information for a bit, before asking her first question.
"So... you have multiple worlds then?"

I nod.
"Yes. Where I'm from, we live among the stars, so to speak. A large part of the galaxy is colonised or inhabited."

"...galaxy?"

I draw my hand to my chin again.
"Ah, so you haven't made that discovery, or perhaps have another word for it. Let's see, so you know that Terra, your world, is a planet, right?"

I point to the sky.
"What about the sun? What is it?"

"It's something like fire, but not quite, and is much larger."

"That's... basic, but accurate. Now, when you look at the night sky, what do you see?"

"Faraway suns... we think."

I nod.
"Precisely. Now imagine that all of these faraway suns have several planets like Terra orbiting them."

She sounds surprised.
"Oh?"

"For a sun and the planets in its gravity well is called a system. And a large, large number of systems held together by... other gravitational forces is called a galaxy."
Still holding the holocom, I press some buttons on it so that it projects a holographic map of my galaxy. No filters are added, only a visual representation.

She blinks.
"The Violet Road!"

I tilt my head, then nod.
"Yes, I suppose that is a fitting name. On many planets the local galaxy can be seen by the naked eye and depending on the atmosphere, it can take on a violet hue."

"Is that what that is? Part of a collection of stars and dust we are in?"

"I'd assume so. Of course, as I have not observed that phenomenon myself yet, I cannot be certain."

"You haven't? Why not?"

I arc a brow.
"I just arrived on this world less than an hour ago."

"Oh, just the one on Terra."

"I do not know if this 'Violet Road' is the local galaxy you see or another phenomenon altogether. Thus I cannot be certain."

"There are other galaxies?"

I nod.
"Of course. Actually, hold on and let me check something."

Since I lost my original thought by explaining the function of the holocom, I forgot to actually try to contact my base. I do so now.
The holocom cannot find a connection to the holonet. Not even static.
I sigh.
"Figured."

"Is it supposed to do that?"

"No connection at all, huh? Yes, that indicates that I am completely cut off from the galaxy I originate from. Thus this serves as proof that there are at least two galaxies, correct?"

"I suppose."

"Also, trust me, if Terra were a part of my galaxy, you would have been found and contacted long ago already."
I glance away when I pocket the holocom again. My tone droops a bit as an unpleasant scenario crosses my mind.
"Probably for the best that you weren't."

She opens her mouth, but then shakes her head and turns back forwards.

I look back at her, perking up again.
"Anyway, space is very, very vast indeed. There are countless galaxies out there. Though I haven't been to any other so far."

I smirk.
"Heh, so this is a new first for me."

"I see. That is odd."

I tilt my head in curiosity.
"Hm? How so?"

"Well, I didn't exactly expect to learn that the Violet Road is a place we are in, and to learn that from someone that arrived from outside it today... who is human. Aren't there different peoples in your galaxy, or are there just humans and dwarves and such?"

"Oh no, there are a broad variety of species. Some are humanlike - or humanoid, while others are not. But now that I think of it, neither did I expect to get flung to another galaxy to find another humanity. Also, what is a 'dwarv'?"

"A dwarf is a small, human-like creature - or are we tall dwarf-like creatures? Anyway, they like to make metal things and live in the mountains."

"I see... interesting."

"Some of them are also quite annoying. They're quite... traditional."

A small frown forms on my face before I quickly smooth it out again.
"Ah, I think I understand. Tradition... is not necessarily a bad thing. But when valued too much, it tends to create problems."

"They tend to look down on Esarians, because... well, we haven't exactly managed to create a period of lasting peace longer than thirty years. The time you are currently in is our personal best."

I gaze down, somewhat dejected.
"Sounds familiar."

Then, I stare up at the sky, muttering to myself.
"So even a completely different world, with completely different species and societies is still ridden by war and conflict, huh? Makes me wonder if there will ever be a way to break the cycle..."

Apparently, she heard me well enough.
"I'm not sure what you're talking about?"

I look back at her.
"My place is quite similar in that regard. The galaxy has not known peace for a long time. So long, in fact, that no one knows if there ever was a time where there was no conflict."

She sounds… somewhat sad?
"Maybe you should ask the elves?"

"The thing is, that it's not about building a single... no, wait, we also failed at that. But it gets even worse when there are millions of worlds with different species, different societies and opinions get together. So, yeah, are those elves renown for having a stable and peaceful society? If so, maybe I should really do that."

"They seem to accomplish it by being extremely individualist and pacifistic. It was only through contact with humans that they formed something that can be called a society at all."

"Hm. How strange. How fascinating."
I smile at her.
"Your world certainly is an interesting one."

"I'm not sure how to feel about hearing that my world is unique from someone that has seen many."

I arc a brow.
"How so?"

"What does it mean to be 'unique' among so many other worlds?"

"That I have not seen one like it. But on the other hand, that goes for most worlds. No planet is exactly like one other. Thus every planet is 'unique', if you will. However, the fact alone that this planet is able to sustain life is a very rare trait. And even so, there seem to be a lot of special things about this world of yours."

"How so? Like pangos?"

"Pangos for one. But also the ambient strength of natural Force- or magic. It is uniquely strong, as well with a certain something that I can't quite put together... However, yes, this world is special indeed."

"So... do most worlds not have as much magic?"

"Not at all. For most, there is only a trace there. Some incredibly rare ones have a presence that is deeply noticeable by Force-users... but here? It's even stronger than that. The Force fills everything here, from the trees to the ground and the very air around us. I wonder if that plays into your 'elemental' distinction of magic..."
I trail off as I get lost in thought.

"I... see..."
From the corner of my vision, I see how she raises her hand, feeling the wind move through her fingers - as though she can feel the magic on her skin.
"So you can't feel the touch of magic on most worlds?"

"I can, because I am always connected to it. But not like this, no. It is difficult to explain, I suppose, since you lack references. This is normal for you, after all."

Actually, now that my senses begin to clear up thanks to the hungry blob, I can feel something that I missed earlier… Currents? The Force isn't just here, it's moving. The energy flows like a liquid, and in definable directions too. In every situation I've been in with the Force, flowing like this has been the result of someone making the Force flow, through architecture or will. Natural places thick with the Force seem to just be closer to it, but on Terra the Force flows.

"But to me... this is completely new, to say the least."
I smile.
"I can't wait to analyse it and unearth the reasons behind this unique behaviour of the Force."

"Well, you're welcome to analyse our world - so long as you don't break anything."

I chuckle softly. I somehow get the feeling I will do that more often here, too. Odd.
"I'll try my best."

"Actually, if the conditions on other worlds are so different, why are we so similar?"

I nod.
"That is one question that I already asked myself. So far, I have not come to an answer. We are separated by at least a different galaxy. And yet your humanity seems to be just like mine. We even have the same language. That is highly unlikely. There must be a reason for it, and I am intrigued to find it."

"Actually - are we the same species, or do we just look similar? Elves and humans look almost entirely alike but are quite different internally."

I shift slightly.
"Well, I would need to analyse your genetics and deeper biology for that..."

She takes a step away.
"I'd rather not be cut up."

I look at her alarmed.
"I am no madman! We have technology for that. Technology that I am not sure if I have it with me at the current... Technology that is integrated into my holocom."

I sigh.
"So, yes, I have the tools necessary to test and analyse you. Or, at least your genetic makeup, if not your anatomy."

"Genetics?"
She takes a breath.
"I feel like I'll be asking questions for a while."

I give her a soft smile.
"Not to worry, it's understandable. Based on what little your world could tell me so far, it seems that the sciences of my world are far more advanced. Besides, I don't mind. Now, as for genetics, you can picture them as the building blocks for biological life. They basically tell your body how to grow. And to a certain degree how to behave, too.
Also, being able to share my knowledge with you makes me feel less like someone taking advantage of you. I am really grateful for your decision to help me, so this is the least I can do for you in return. Which actually brings me to a certain thought. When we met, you seemed to be rather suspicious of me, even unnerved. What changed between then and there, when you decided to help me?"

"Uhhh..."

I blink, then scratch my cheek apologetically.
"I'm sorry. Were that too many thought jumps at once?"

"I guess you just caught me off guard. I wasn't expecting someone to ram into me running from a pango."

I blink, as I suddenly remember something.
"Oh, yes. Speaking of ramming into you, how are you feeling now?"

"Better. Less rattled. You're heavy."

I chuckle nervously and scratch my cheek.
"Heh, yeah, I guess I am... Anyway, do you want me to heal you from the impact?"

"You can do that?"

I simply nod.

"How? Normally that requires mastery of Earth magic."

"My type of magic does not have that distinction, remember?"

"But how do you do it without the energy of the Earth?"

"With the energy of the Force. Or, I guess, magic itself."

"In order to heal me, won't you need to see the problem?"

I scratch my cheek and avert my gaze for just a moment.
"It would help enormously, but is not necessary."

She sighs.
"That's not what I meant. I don't have more than scratches on the surface. You wouldn't be asking if you didn't think I was hurt, so whatever you think is wrong has to be on the inside."

I was about to say something in response to her first sentence, but her second one makes me blink, then laugh.
"I already thought you perceptive, but you're even more so than I anticipated."

I calm down again and smile at her.
"You are right. Our collision has dealt some internal damage to you - a heavy strain on your bones, to be precise. Or rather, I noticed those cracks in your bones, and assume that it was due to our crash."

"So how did you notice?"

"I..."
I shift a bit. How do I tell her that I'm essentially a god?
"I have..."

I hesitate for a moment and take a breath, before looking into her eyes again. Then, I continue.
"I have reached a certain level of mastery in the Force that allows me to see things with more than just my eyes. What most other Force users can only sense in deep concentration, I can see with a bit more than a glance. I was worried after our collision, so I took a look at your internals, just to make sure there wasn't any damage that would require immediate attention."

"How can you draw a distinction between damage and natural when you've never seen my people before?"

"I know how bones are supposed to look like. And from what I saw, your anatomy is that of the typical human I am familiar with."

"I see. So, what is wrong with them?"

"They're stressed. Not broken, or even cracked. However, if you'd put much more stress on them, they will break."

"Okay. And you can fix them?"

I pause for just a single moment, checking the flow and control of my energy. This is a more delicate process than just lifting and dismantling my lightsaber. I have to make sure my control is undisturbed again. Or at least quite decent.
Hmm… I can't just destroy planets at the moment, but my control should be fine enough for this. Alternatively, I could wait a day or two. It should clear up by then.
"Generally, yes. However, whatever anomaly has brought me here is clouding my control somewhat. I believe I should be good enough to do it, but I'd rather meditate over it for a bit to make sure."

"Okay. I didn't really expect to have an injury I didn't know I had healed anyway. But if you can do that... how powerful are you, exactly?"

I arc a brow. This is the moment of truth.
"Would you believe me if I said 'godlike'?"

"I'll go with 'no'."

"I thought so."
I look at my hand.
"Though it is the truth. Well, perhaps not in this very moment, but generally. You have no reason to believe me, of course, and I can't really think of anything to prove it to you, either. So, all I can give you is my word."

"Well, I've put up with you being weird for a little while now, so I can be patient. You seem like you're actually trying - it's a rare enough trait."

I look back at her again, slightly confused.
"I'm trying what, exactly?"

"To be genuine. Honest."

I blink.
"Ah, yes. You know, I'm not trying. I am honest. I never have spoken a lie in my life... aside from the times in my childhood to protect a friend..."

My eyes grow vacant as I begin to get dragged into old memories but then shake my head.
"But that doesn't mean that my words will be believed. I've grown to expect it, really. At least I know that I am honest."

"I suppose that's true."

I look back down to my hand which I hold away from the pango. I then let some purple lightning snake over the glove.
The pango leans towards the hand, or more specifically the lightning. I let the lightning ebb away again.

"Pooooi..."
It seems disappointed.

"Sorry, little one. I don't know how your kind responds to electricity. I don't want to endanger you."

"Is that 'Force' lightning?"

I glance over to Leanna.
"Yes, it is."

"It probably won't hurt him. Pangos are hard to get rid of with magic."

I think back to my first encounter with the blob.
"Or so I noticed. I tried to push it away with a telekinetic push, but it just ate it."

She giggles at that.
"Yeah, that wouldn't work at all."

I just can't help but smile at this melodic sound. Somehow, it manages to put me at ease.

"Well, if you're sure it won't hurt it..."
I let some more small arcs of lightning crackle across my glove and hold it closer to the pango.

The pango lights up at this display, leaning into the current. It begins to vibrate as lightning courses over it, though it looks happy.
"Ppppoppoopoooooooippooooiiiioiii..."

I smile at the creature.
"I hope you can forgive me my poor first impression now, little friend."

It smiles sillily at me as it continues to absorb Sith lightning without any negative consequences.

I give it a gentle smile.
"Fascinating. You seem to like it, don't you?"

The blob nods vigorously.
"Ppppoooooiooiiii!"

"Then I'm glad."

I then continue to look at the blue blob with an analysing gaze. How does this weird creature even work? How are its genetics structured?
This line of inquiry results in me being absorbed by the study of the pango for about an hour, learning about how its alien body is structured, and how it utilizes metabolized Force energy from the environment to maintain cohesion, convert between mass and Force energy, and navigate the world. Effectively, I learn that the pango is half-ghost.
This discovery is incredible!
"How incredibly fascinating! Never in a million years would I have predicted this outcome. That such a being can even exist... how intriguing."

Leanna jumps slightly at my sudden exclamation but then smiles. Presumably at my excitement.
"What did you find?"

I shift my gaze over to her.
"The nature of the pango."

"Well, what did you learn about it?"

"Hmm, how do I put it? In simple terms, it's pure Force energy given form - half of it, to be precise."

She smiles.
"Well, I could've told you that much if you asked."

I arc a brow.
"Oh? So you have ghosts, too?"

She blinks, seeming slightly worried.
"No - at least I hope not."

I blink at her reaction.
"Huh? Why not?"

She moves on, basically ignoring my inquiry.
"But the common understanding of pangos is that they're related to less common slime moulds that developed enough to use instinctive magic, which is how they navigate, feed, and maintain their shape. Innately magical creatures aren't the hardest things to find on Terra, after all."

I blink again, then nod.
"I see. Well, to me, this is a unique blend of condensed energy and biology. Something like it has been utterly unheard of in my world."

The pango bounces in my arms before falling asleep.

"Wyverns are another commonly known example - it turns out that on their own their wings aren't sufficient to achieve lift, so they use wind magic to make up the gap - and, well, they have to breathe fire somehow."

I nod again.
"While that does sound impressive, it is not the same. Or, at least I assume it won't be the same, as I have not analysed such a wyvern myself yet."

"Well, pangos are unique, but it makes sense that they are. No other creature needs to use magic to hold themselves - or anything - together. Except for humans - we like to make objects harder to break, but we haven't managed to do it to ourselves yet."

I arc a brow.
"Hm? What do you mean?"

She draws her sword.
"If you could notice how a pango worked, surely you noticed that my equipment is enchanted."

I nod.
"It was one of the first things I noticed, yes."

"Well, let's give your abilities a little test. Without me telling you, what does my sword do?"

I look at it again, to see the nature of the enchantments. First things first: its basic components are a pre-space - no, pre-industrial steel alloy, along with a simple platinum trim and a grip made from treated animal hide. All told, this is doubtlessly one of the ancient predecessors of the lightsaber. Like a vibroblade without the vibro function. However, someone - probably multiple someones - have gone to great lengths to ensure that this weapon is anything but simple.
First and foremost, there is the characteristic touch of alchemy. While the metal in the blade was once steel, it is no longer, instead, it is a more complex - and more impossible - alloy involving bonds that cannot exist without the Force's gentle nudge. The substance is currently more akin to durasteel - if durasteel was lighter and about ten percent less durable.
One thing that does stick out about this alchemic substance is the fact that I had to look hard for the traces of the maker's presence that the process necessarily leaves on the changed object, but all told, I have seen stranger and more impressive alchemic projects in my travels.
Atop that is a second layer of Force tampering. Less deep and more overt, more similar to spellcraft than alchemy - which I expect is because this world's practice of alchemy currently has limitations the manufacturers of this weapon wished to exceed. These spells are each distinct in function but draw from the same power source - a group of small crystals embedded inside Leanna's armour. Together, they improve the durability of the weapon, increase its weight under certain conditions, and protect it from less physical dangers. As a result of these, the blade is allowed to be razor-thin.
Several only seem to activate under the wielder's command, obviously meant to link into another set of spellcraft that I can only guess at the purpose of but which is not present on either the weapon or the armour.
Finally, there is a magical signature on the hilt, likely as a form of theft protection.

I nod, satisfied and impressed.
"A truly fine work, given your society's limitations."

She waits for me to dictate what exactly I think is on the weapon.

Not wanting to disappoint her, I continue.
"The base steel alloy is rather basic, but that is to be expected. To compensate, the alchemical reinforcement is rather strong. However, the most fascinating is the series of small enhancements that fulfil various purposes and draw strength from the little crystals inside your armour. And no doubt your own abilities can manipulate it even further."

She nods, seemingly impressed.

"Also, the small imprint to prevent theft is also quite clever. It must have taken quite a long time to figure out this exact combination of enhancements."

"I understood most of what you said, but... what's alchemy?"

"Ah. It's a school of changing existing things with the Force - or magic."

"Ah, transmutation."

"Yes, I suppose that word can work, too."
I smile at her.
"Despite the weapon looking rather simple, it is anything but. Consider me impressed."

"That is about right. This isn't the best the Academy can offer, but one can't exactly skimp when trying to make a weapon to fight dragons with."

"I'd assume so."

She weighs the sword in her hands.
"This little lady has gotten me through quite a few interesting situations in one piece."

I arc a brow in amusement.
"'Lady'?"

"And... well, it has a habit of leaving others in more than one piece."
She smiles devilishly.
"What? Can't a lady have a few hobbies?"

I tilt my head, not letting on the fact that this smile of hers is actually really enticing.
"So, your hobby is to name your weapon?"

"I'm not sure about name, but I am quite attached to it. Aren't you attached to your 'light-saber'? If something lets you survive... Besides, when I said 'lady', I was referring to the sword. I think you misunderstood there."

I chuckle quietly, almost mirthlessly as I mumble to myself.
"Heh, yes, survive..."

I catch myself and look back up at her.
"But you are correct, I am also quite attached to my lightsaber. It is the embodiment of my beliefs and an extension of myself. Or rather a part of it."

Then, I blink as her second sentence registers.
"Wait, so you meant your sword has hobbies?"

"Like hunting, yes. Or... no, not compared to some. There are a few weapons out there that do seem to have hobbies."

"Oh?"
How peculiar.

"A few hundred years ago, it was noticed that putting enough enchantment on something makes it... strange. Someone from there had the bright idea to try and make a framework for this strangeness to grow into in order to see what happens."

I sigh.
"That is usually a bad idea."

"I've never had the chance to get close to one, but we call them Ymiran Spears... even though not all of them are spears."

"How peculiar."

"They're quite... alien, but also somewhat interesting. They're also typically quite powerful weapons or tools, and can't be used without their explicit consent. As a result of a picky selection process, Ymiran Spears spend most of their time indulging in whatever pastimes they've picked up over the centuries."

"Huh."

"I know we have a few at the Academy dedicated to teaching and the study of the arcane."

"They sound quite fascinating. Sentient objects? How odd."

"We're still not really sure how they work - but we aren't sure how we work either."

I smile slightly.
"That is to be expected. You are still a young society, after all."

"Given how depressed you seem about your society, I'm wondering whether that's a good or a bad thing."

"Well, it's less 'my society' and more the abysmal interactions of all the different societies. But all major wars have now come to an end, so I remain hopeful for the future."

"That is well."

"Indeed. Now, if the major powers can stop being stupid, we may actually have a shot at peace."

"Are they being stupid?"

"Well, how would you call two major powers that fight over opposing beliefs?"

"I would call that sane. The kingdoms once fought for much less. Now we fight in courtrooms over policy, and it is better. Even if it is with swords and dischargers, it is more important to fight over the experience of people than for control of distant lands few of them will see."

"Is it now?"

"At least what you fight over means something then."

"Violence and war are stupid and wrong in their entirety. If you're too blind to acknowledge the opponents' point of view matters little in that regard."

"What are the views fighting in your galaxy?"

"One on hand, we have the corrupt Republic, which was founded to be a safe haven for all sentient beings in the galaxy but is now reduced to a warmongering institution lead by greedy politicians. Along with their blinded Jedi guardians, which are an Order of Force users that use the Light side of the Force. They once fought for peace, but they have become blind to the point that they now fight to exterminate their enemy entirely.
And on the other hand, there is the Sith Empire, where users of the Dark side think of themselves as the rightful rulers of the galaxy. Generally very unpleasant fellows who think they're the greatest, and are often sadistic to a fault. Violence is the interpretation of their code, and vengeance for a loss several hundred years ago their goal."
I speak with a snarl, aware that I most likely sound rather bitter. But how could I not? The endless conflict in my galaxy is just so pointless!

"Ah, so merely your standard border conflicts. Territory and people, the currencies of kingdoms."

"Yes. That mixed with ideology. For example, the Jedi continuously preach about forgiveness and giving others second chances, but as soon as someone supposedly Sith stands before them, they attack with the intent to kill. Good guardians of the peace they are..."
I grumble the last part.

Leanna frowns.
"To think the Treaty is so rare an achievement to one who has seen older and mightier civilizations..."

Now that catches my interest.
"Hm? What treaty?"

"The Treaty of Esaria, the articles under which the longest peace in our history has grown."

My expression lightens.
"But that is something good then, is it not?"

"I suppose I'm am... displeased by how unique our world is in this way, if a peace lasting only a single generation is seen as impressive and rare."

Somehow… I do not like to see her frown.
"Well, you have to look at it that way: The more civilisations and people come together, the more potential there is for conflict. Also, that our galaxy has been manipulated by an individual that was pretty much a god does not help matters, I think."

"What? You're not making sense there. Manipulated?"

"For the longest time, he was simply known as the Sith Emperor. He manipulated the Empire into doing his bidding, and his goal was to wage war."

"Why?"

"To gain power. He drew strength from the deaths of others. Once, he destroyed and absorbed the life and Force of an entire planet to gain immortality - to ascend. A few years ago, ... he did the same again."
I look to the ground as I say the last part, and I'm aware of a painful look flashing over my face as memories of my failure at Ziost begin to rear their ugly head. But I replace it so fast, push back the memories, I'm sure Leanna won't have seen it.

"What kind of..."
She is taken aback.
"... was he stopped?"

I nod. Memories of my confrontation with Valkorion… no, Tenebrae haunting my mind.
"Rather recently, yes."

"Good."
Her line of inquiry ends. I get the feeling that she has more questions, but does not want to poke me endlessly.

I hum in agreement. I don't necessarily want to talk about it further, either. Instead, I bring up a new topic that interests me.
"So, what were you doing out there in the forest, if I may ask?"

"I was looking for the source of the energy spikes near Meadowhill."

I just arc a brow in silent inquiry.

"When magic concentrates like that, it tends to mean something - something is happening, or someone is doing something. It was my task to learn as much as I can and report back on the nature of the event."

"For how long has that been going on that your headquarter heard of it?"

"A few days now, building in intensity for that time."

I put a hand to my chin, beginning to ponder.
"Hmm..."

"I was terribly interested when they practically stopped, pooling into a single, person-sized space."

"And then I plopped through, huh?"

"Yes, as far as I can tell."

"Interesting. Well, that at least rules out me being the source of this."

"One thing that will interest you is that while the strange magic you call the Force was present, it was primarily elemental magic that formed the surge."

"Oh? That does sound interesting indeed."
I rub my hands together and smile excitedly.
"Oh, another secret to uncover."

She smiles at me.
"You are interested in secrets then?"

I chuckle.
"You could say that."
I calm down my laughing and smile proudly instead.
"I didn't hold the Pyramid of Ancient Knowledge for nothing, after all."

Leanna looks at me questioningly.
"'Pyramid of Ancient Knowledge'?"

"Ah. It's a position in the Empire. Or rather, it was a few years ago - it has been reformed since. The Pyramid of Ancient Knowledge was one of twelve spheres of influence and seats of power within the Empire. I suppose you could also say ministry to it."

"Ah. I thought it was a physical pyramid you hold to gain ancient knowledge."

I chuckle again.
"No, no. Sadly not."

She giggles back. Force, that sound truly is incredibly melodic.
"'Sadly'?"

"I mean, how cool would it be to have an artefact that would just give you ancient knowledge? Imagine all the things you could learn like that!"

"Imagine all the places you would never need to go yourself."

I shrug.
"Eh, I have found that nothing goes over an old-fashioned expedition."

Then, I smile. Pleasurable memories like my expeditions with Talos tend to make me do that.
"I find it rather enjoyable to dig up ancient artefacts myself, actually."

"I've never really had the chance."

I tilt my head.
"I also wouldn't have thought that it would fall under your jurisdiction as a guardian. But what prevented you, if you wanted to?"

"It wasn't part of what I needed to learn. But all mages begin as scholars. To raise a blade from there is to take what you've learned of magic and apply it to the field of battle."

"I see. An interesting train of thought. That has some merit for further analysis. You said we're heading to this Academy right now, correct?"

"We are - and as it reaches evening we should be arriving in the first town we shall stay in on our way."

"As it's the only town I can sense in the vicinity, I take it is this 'Meadowhill' you spoke of earlier?"

"Yes, it is. We should only have a few hours on the road yet."

"Yes. Given our current speed of travel, your assessment is correct. Though our method of travelling is slow and highly inefficient, I find it to be rather relaxing and enjoyable. Especially with such nice company."

"Well, thank you - but I don't seem to have an alternative method. Sorry."

"So you walked all the way from your headquarter to here? Wouldn't your superiors give you a mount or something?"

"I'm not exactly... good with mounts."

"Oh? How comes?"
Her statement takes me by surprise.
"I suppose you people don't have mechanical mounts yet, so I'd assume some domestic animal. And given how well you handled this extremely dangerous predator, your statement surprises me."

She snorts.
"Pangos are not hard to deal with."
She then lowers her voice.
"But horses... horses are demons."

"Horses, huh? What makes them so evil?"

"I don't know. They just don't like me."

"Hmm... But they are mostly domestic animals, yes? Generally considered to be harmless?"

"By those who don't work with them, yes."

"Do others struggle with them as much as you do?"

She now answers a bit hesitant.
"No..."

"I see. In that case, I might have a hypothesis."

She perks up, interested.
"Oh?"

"From my experience, animals are oftentimes rather good in instinctively gauging the intent of an approaching being. Now, given your reactions and behaviour just now, I assume that you have had some bad experiences with these horses, and are rather nervous whenever you approach one. The animal will sense it, and become nervous in return. Thus, it would only increase your nervousness and cements your belief that you're bad with them."

Her golden spark moves at that, twitching slightly.
"Oh no, have I been spooking them?"

I shrug.
"Possibly. Not in the kind that you pose any danger, but in the kind that they can't categorise you."

Her determination sets itself.
"I need to bring them all apples for what I've done to them."

I laugh out loud. Something that I haven't done since… I think I haven't done that in years.
"Haha, oh, you really are too kind. But yes, generally a calm and confident approach works best to assure animals that you have no malicious intent. Having food with you helps with that."

"I will provide all the apples."

I laugh again, and it takes a few minutes until I can calm myself again. I wipe at my eyes and then smile at Leanna genuinely.
"You truly are something special, you know that?"

She blushes slightly, before shaking her head.
"I don't know about that."

I smile at her in earnest.
"Your kindness and empathy are a rare trait, especially to such a deep degree. Also, let's just say that it has been... quite some time since someone made me laugh like this. For that, I thank you."

"Thank you..."
She still appears slightly flustered.

I smile pleasantly at her.
"You need not thank me for speaking the truth, but it is appreciated regardless."

She returns my smile sweetly.
"Well, isn't some kindness common among those who risk their lives for people?"

I chuckle softly.
"Heh, I suppose so."

Then, I look away as my face darkens a bit.
"Not that I was the recipient of it most of the time..."

"Those 'Jedi' you mentioned?"

I nod.
"I was... trained as a Sith, which was good enough a reason for the Jedi to fight me. Even when I once wanted to just talk with some and switch to their side, they accused me a liar and tried to kill me. Some Masters of the Order they were..."

"Was 'changing sides' a trick used by other Sith?"

"Not at all. At least, I never heard of one doing so as a ruse."
I look back at her.
"Since then, I remain sceptical of such self-righteous organisations. But you are genuine in your kindness. It's refreshing, to say the least. Special."

She raises an eyebrow.
"How can you be so certain my kindness is genuine? Or that it extends to everyone in some form?"

"I can see it."

She blinks.

"In the Force, emotions are sense-able. And I can see that you have strong empathy and kindness within you."

She grimaces slightly.
"...you can see what I'm feeling?"

"More or less. I mostly never focus on it, though. I do value the concept of privacy, and as such, I try to not read too much into the privacy of others, even if I can. Also, it's mostly only strong emotions one feels in a moment that are easily picked up on."

"Oh...kay..."
Her emotions seem to withdraw somewhat, moving behind practised barriers.

I arc a brow.
"You sound like you don't fully believe me? But wait, your action contradicts that. Have I made you uncomfortable?"
I stop walking and look at her worried. I would dislike it quite much if I'd make her uncomfortable. But why? Why do I suddenly care about that?

Leanna frowns.
"It's a bit like hugging someone, and them telling you they have a knife in their hand - but don't worry, they don't intend to use it."

I look down.
"I... understand."

It may have been quite some time since I last experienced a hug, but the concept is easy enough to understand.

"Even if you trust them, it isn't really... reassuring."

I turn away from her.
"I should have anticipated such a reaction when I tell you this. But still, it stings. I told you that I consider myself godlike, and that is not because I'm delusional. I have the powers to back that claim up. So, for your metaphor, I can offer nothing more than the reassurance that I'll never use the knife, for I am unable to put it away... ...but it seems like that won't be enough, ...will it?"

She places a hand on my shoulder.
"It will have to be. I still need to help you find your way home."

Her smile is shaky - built atop a desire to reassure - but there is something genuine behind that.
"Besides, I shouldn't really worry about it, should I? If you're lying, all I need to do is give you a smack, and if you aren't, well... what can I do about that?"

"You could walk away from me..."
Somehow, just the thought of that is upsetting me somewhat... why?

"Then who would help you find your way?"
She smiles, an overwhelming brightness creeping into her expression.
"You do need to make it to Illumia at least, after all."

I turn around to finally look at her again.
"You gave me the directions there, though, didn't you?"

"But I need to make sure you get there - and to show you to my superiors."
She gives my shoulder a gentle squeeze.
"And we don't need to tell them anything about what you are except how you got to Meadowhill if you don't want to. It isn't terribly relevant, after all."

I nod, my expression overflowing with the relief and gratitude I feel.
"Yes. Thank you..."

I close my eyes to take a breath.
"You have no idea how much that means to me."

Then, I open my eyes again and smile genuinely at her.

"It was nothing. Come on, we don't have much longer to walk."

I nod again.
"Alright."

I resume walking, side by side with Leanna.

There is a pause for a bit before she speaks again.
"Are you... feeling better now, then?"

I smile, once more floored by her care and kindness.
"And once again you show concern for a stranger... Yes, I'm better, thank you for asking. I was afraid you'd turn away from me after you learned of that aspect of my abilities, but you reassured me that you wouldn't."

She shrugs.
"I wouldn't say I'm comfortable with that knowledge, but I won't turn you away. You deserve compassion as much as anyone else, and I had the time to give you mine."

Then she frowns.
"Although... that you felt my simple acceptance was so meaningful... never mind."

She then shifts the topic.
"What kinds of worlds are in your 'galaxy'?"

I blink, wondering what she was getting at before changing the topic. But whatever, it most likely has a reason why she did change the topic, so let's just go with it.
"Oh. There are all kinds of worlds. Desert planets, jungle worlds, farming worlds, ice planets, city planets, and plenty more."

"Could you tell me about some of the ones you've been to?"
Despite her interest in the galaxy, she seems more interested in just getting me talking again.

"Of course. Is there anything that would interest you in particular?"

"Let's start with jungles. What are those?"

"Well, a jungle is like a forest, in a way, but more... tropical, I'd say. Densely populated with trees and all kinds of exotic flora and fauna. Usually the air is rather humid, too. And the first time I saw such a planet was Dromund Kaas, the capital world of the Sith Empire. Lush jungles filled with deadly predators and a never-ending thunderstorm."
I smile in a way that may be perceived as somewhat strangely.
"Good times."

"Never-ending thunderstorm? Why?"

"Something about its atmosphere. It's constantly being charged. So, 'never ending' may have been a slight exaggeration, but it does storm for most of the year."

"That seems so weird. Are you sure your worlds don't have as much magic? That sounds to me like an excess of wind magic."

"Not wind magic, no. Though the storm was started by magic. Remember that evil Force-user god guy I told you about earlier? His experiments on the Dark side, alchemy especially, lead to a constant charge of the atmosphere."

"So it's artificial?"

"It started that way, yes."

"So what does it look like?"

"Well, it's almost always dark, since the clouds block out the sky. So, instead of the sun, only violet lightning illuminate the darkness. And if we have a lucky day, it's not raining."

"That sounds depressing... so it's a jungle planet, that means it's mostly forest and devoid of civilization?"

"Yes. Aside from the metropolis of Kaas City and some outlying settlements and infrastructure, it is mostly untamed wilderness. Also, it isn't so bad. It was the first time I saw anything else but sand and rocks, so that was nice. I actually grew rather fond of that thunderstorm - I find it calming."

"Why is that?"

"Hm? Why is what?"

"You said you only saw sand and rocks before then."

"Ah, yes. You see, I grew up on a desert planet. And after my Force sensitivity was found, I was... uhm... encouraged to go to Korriban - another desert world - to be trained as a Sith."

She raises an eyebrow.
"A world with only desert?"

"And canyons. Yes."

"Any water?"

I blink.
"Wait a moment."

My eyes widen in realisation.
"Since you know what a desert is, do you mean that Terra does have one, too?"

"Yes, we do. The Kingdom of Venaya exists mostly around fertile rivers surrounded by deserts. Is that so strange?"

I blink again.
"So, your planet has different climates? How peculiar. At least in my galaxy, planets have only one prevailing climate."

"Is it? Climates are different depending on their surroundings, aren't they?"

I nod.
"Exactly. And those surroundings happen to be the same around the entire planet. At least, that has been the trend in my galaxy."

"Don't any of them have mountains?"

"So, when I say a desert world, I mean a desert world. Nothing but sand and rocks, as far as the eye can see. And the occasional oasis."
I pause as I realise her question.
"Oh, yeah, of course. That's what I meant with canyons."

"Well, if a planet has that and water, precipitation differences should form, right?"

"Yes. There is a rainy season once per year, which turns the desert into a mud land."

"Do your planets rotate?"

"Of course they do."

"So they should generate wind cells, right?"

I blink.
"Uh, yes."

"So, your planets have wind that carries precipitation?"

I nod.
"Yes. It varies from planet to planet, but yes."

"And the mountains create divisions between areas with high precipitation and those with low rainfall?"

"That, again, varies from planet to planet, but generally that is true."

"And these worlds have suns as their sources of heat, which do not behave in a manner which is radically different to the one above us right now?"

I nod again.
"Indeed."

She seems very perplexed about something.
"So why is there no climatic variation between areas of your worlds?"

I tilt my head.
"Should there be one? I mean, as far as I know, Terra seems to be the exception to the rule..."

Her eyes widen.
"Why could there not be? As far as we can tell, the only things needed to cause Terra's variations are the fact that certain lands get different amounts of rain and sunlight, which is caused by the fact that we have mountains, oceans, and orbit a sun. The only exceptions to the rules of climate thus far are exclusively caused by magical phenomena."

"Well, there are differences in the climate across a planet depending on the factors you just listed, but they are nowhere near as extreme as a continental world having deserts..."

"But by all rights, a mountain range near an ocean should have highly arable farmland on the side along the prevailing winds, and arid lands on the other. As far as we have found, these rules are consistent - even on the skies of Venestris. Unless the very rules of wind are different for us than they are for you, our planets shouldn't be so different."

I blink.
"'Venestris'?"

"The great planet, fourth from the sun. It is extremely large, and we cannot see its surface - but its winds behave in accordance to the same rules as Terra."

I turn my face, squinting at the sky as my eyes scan it. Then, they narrow down. If Leanna knows its location, she can guess that I am currently looking at it.
"I... think I can see that... My vision is still a bit blurred, thanks to that nebulous energy around me, but that planet is big enough for me not to miss."

"And what do you see?"

"A gas giant. One with a typically turbulent atmosphere."

Oranges and blues run along the equatorial bands of the world, swirling in the dance of endless deadly winds that these sorts of worlds favour. It is unusually large for its kind, but not as large as some I have seen. Streams of cold gas still mingle with the hot air emerging from the core.
Most striking is how obviously it shows how planetary wind currents divide into prevailing directions. The world has both the size and distinctive colour scheme to demonstrate its air currents to even basic dedicated astronomical initiatives.

I blink in surprise.
"Huh."

All told, it is as strange and wondrous a world as I have found anywhere else in my galaxy - perhaps even more so. I continue to gaze at it, watching the swirling masses of colourful gas being mesmerized. So far, this system is two for two on its count of strange and interesting worlds.
I mutter to myself, just loud enough that Leanna can hear it as well.
"How fascinating..."

Chemical analysis even suggests that its core is forging rare crystals - and that it lacks the elements of Tibanna Gas. I cannot be truly sure without all my powers, however - delving that deep into a gas giant's core is a challenge even for more accomplished seers.

I let my vision zoom out again, focusing back on my immediate surroundings. My gaze turns towards Leanna.
"Another unique planet in this system. It almost seems like it was made to show you how the winds on a gas giant work."

"It is?"

I shrug.
"I don't know if it is, but it sure looks like it. The fact that there are differently coloured elements floating around makes for the intriguing display of easily observable patterns. Like... like a tutorial on astronomy or something."

"Huh. Well, if it is, do you know if someone put it there?"

I shake my head.
"My vision is still clouded as of now - my senses numbed. I suppose I could check for traces of artificial creation, but so far it doesn't look like it."

"I wonder if the rest of our system is as strange..."

I raise a brow.
"Want me to take a look? Though on second thought, I think I have to postpone that offer. Aside from the moon, that is close enough, and the gas giant, that is big enough, I can't get clear readings on anything else for now."

"Well, I'm interested. I learned about the system as a normal thing for a long time, and to hear it described as strange... I guess I just want to know what you think."

I smile.
"Well, I think that I certainly want to learn more about it."

"Although... if Terra's crystals are so strange, I do wonder what you must think of Klauzister."

I blink. I really think I will do that a lot as a reaction to confusion in the next few days.
"Of what?"

"Klauzister, the second planet. She is bound by ice and snow - enrobed by a halo of it. Some of Esaria's worst winters are a result of her ice falling upon our world."

I cock a brow.
"Wouldn't it melt in the entry of your atmosphere?"

"Some of it does, but it descends slowly."

I continue to arch a brow at her, obviously sceptical.
"Well, that's the first I hear of something like this, but given how that is rather non-descriptive regarding your world, I'll take your word for it."

I step back around, motioning for Leanna to resume our trek.
"While I'm not busy stargazing, shall we resume our walk?"

"Of course."
She smiles at me.

I return the smile.
"So, this Klauzister... how do the impacts of the comets work? And what made you bring it up in the first place?"

"Because it is believed that its incredibly cold surface despite the fact that it is closer to the sun than Terra is a result of magic. You said worlds of magic were rare in your galaxy."

"True. But worlds of ice are not."

"Worlds of uninhabitable ice closer than habitable worlds to the local ball of skyfire?"

I pause and think back.
"That is indeed quite rare, but can happen occasionally. However, if you believe it is the reason of magic, then I'll take a look soon. Not now, though, since fighting against this pesky energy around me has strained my eyes."
I grumble a bit.
"Something is alien enough about this energy that I can't just assimilate it..."

"Oh. I'm sorry..."

I blink at her.
"Huh? Why do you apologise?"

"Well, I'm the one that made you strain your eyes, didn't I?"

"No? You mentioned that there was something interesting. I was the one to immediately jump at the chance to take a look at it, despite me knowing that I have to pierce the veil currently around me. You are not responsible for my actions, as such I see no need for you to apologise."

"Alright, if you say so."
She turns back towards the road.

Then, I smile in earnest.
"Do you see now what I mean about your kindness?"

"Not really. It's not a big deal."

"Well, I've met quite a lot of people, and few are those that hold similar kindness, compassion, and empathy as you do. But of course, I don't want to push my view onto you. I merely share my observations with you, as such I wouldn't want you to feel pressured or anything."

"Well, thank you regardless. I guess I'm just used to it."

I continue to smile.
"You are yourself, as such you perceive yourself as normal. Does that sum it up?"

"I suppose. It makes sense, at least."

I nod, and with a last smile, focus back on the surroundings. I see that the curl of smoke on the horizon has grown much closer, and that the sun grows low in the sky.
As we move closer to the small village, the skies shift their hues to a beautiful, sunset orange that strikes across the sky like so many golden spears.
I have to stop and pause in wonder, staring at the beautiful sight in amazement.
"Woah..."

"Come on, we don't want to be caught outside the gates at night. That will make everything much harder for me. Not to mention how spooked the guards will be."

"Oh, sorry."
I resume walking. Even so, the sunset is stunning. I have seen evening skies glow before, but never like this. The fusion heartbeat of this system's star almost seems to be reaching across the millions of kilometres simply to brush my face with warmth.

So, even as I stride onwards, I stare mesmerized at the sky.
"How wondrous, how beautiful..."

Then, I glance at Leanna for just a single moment.
"Most beautiful, truly."

And if I look right, Leanna almost seems to be framed by the light, her hair capturing the orange-gold flickers of twilight effortlessly.

"Huh?"
She doesn't even seem to notice.

I just smile mysteriously at her, not letting on the surprise I feel right now. This... sensation... how odd.

"Huh..."
She shrugs and turns away.

My curiosity gets the better of me, though.
"Are you not amazed by this spectacular view, Leanna?"

"What's spectacular about it? It's a sunset. I watch them on my own time. Don't tell me it's another thing that's unique to Terra..."
She seems worried that other worlds don't have sunsets.

"No, of course not. Sunsets work the same way everywhere. Unless a planet is tidally locked, but that's rather rare. But that's not it. This is just so... beautiful. I'd say it instantly goes into my top five favourite sunsets I've seen so far."

"Well, if this is one of the best, I suppose I'll have to show you where to find my favourite."

Now that would be something I could look forward to very much. I always enjoy taking in the beauty of nature.
"Oh? Well, I would most certainly love that."

"Because... well, this is a fairly normal sunset."

"I would assume that it is to you. But you know, every planet has a different sunset, based on their star and atmosphere."

"Oh?"

"For example, why does the sky appear golden like this right now?"

"I'm not sure."

"Well, do you have an idea?"

"Not really."

"Okay. So, light is perceived like this due to the elements that make up the atmosphere, as well as the angle at which it hits. There are other variables, but those are the main components. So, it could be that on certain worlds, sunsets appear in alien colours, like green or blue, or whatever, really. But this golden glow? It has something incredibly warm, soothing, and majestic to it."

She nods.
"Okay, I think I get it."

I smile slightly at her.
"Though the sunsets on my... origin planet were rather beautiful, too. The only good thing about that place, really."

"I'm glad that you're happy with that."

We then approach the gates of the village. A guard calls out.
"Halt, who goes there?"

Leanna steps forward.
"Leanna Dawn, Mage-Knight third class as ordained by the Haven Mage Guild, and my temporary charge Xerath, a victim of a rouge magical phenomenon."

A small porthole opens in the wall, and an eye looks out of it. Leanna stands still under the scrutiny.
"Very well, you may pass."

She smiles at him.
"Thank you. Have a good night."

The gate opens and we step in. We pass the guardsmen, who upon getting a good look at us, bow slightly to Leanna, but sustain their suspicion towards me. I pay them not much of a mind, though. I am used to such gazes, after all, and continue to stride with the confidence and grace expected of a man in my position.

Leanna, however, seems slightly unnerved by both of their reactions.
As we move through the city, this pattern is repeated by many townspeople. They look to Leanna, are satisfied that she means them no harm, then move to me, regarding my stranger look with suspicion.
She grows more and more uncomfortable under their attentions.

Eventually, I sigh.
"You are uncomfortable, are you not?"

She nods silently.

I put a hand to my chin, pondering the options to help alleviating her discomfort.
"Hm. Want me to deploy an aura?"

"A what?"

"An aura. An effect that spans a certain area around me."

"Which would do what?"

"Telling the people's instincts that I'm harmless."

She seems more anxious about the implications of that than the stares of the people.

"Well, my presence shouldn't be intrusive in the first place, but it seems that they are naturally suspicious."

"No, it's probably just your clothes. You don't fit in... at all, really."

"Well, they are my trusty robes. And I suppose that I don't, given my... drastically different background."
For a moment, I look at the sky, a forlorn expression flashing over my face. But as quick as it came, I smooth it out and I continue to look ahead.

"Xerath, you'll fit in well enough if you didn't wear something that looks that... otherworldly."

"So, you want me to change clothes? Well, as it happens, the only change I have on me... would be even more attention-grabbing."
I don't think my Emperor's Mantle would make this situation better.

"Don't worry, I'll help you buy some."

"But... I don't have your currency-"

She cuts me off.
"This is important. No one should be caught without sensible clothing. I'll buy them for you."

I ponder for a moment, then nod and flash her a smile.
"That is very kind, you have my gratitude. I will pay you back once I can."

"It's not like you won't accrue other expenses someone will need to pay for anyway. This will take a few days at least, and you should be comfortable while we do it. So, let's see if we can find ourselves a tailor. I didn't exactly look for one last I was here."

I arc a brow at her.
"I am comfortable, you aren't. And while I'm not exactly thrilled of changing out of these robes, if it helps to put your mind at ease, I'll gladly do so anyway."

"Well... Thank you."

"After all, these stares are nothing I'm not used to, anyway."

"They aren't?"

"Though you are right, that it might be better not to draw too much attention to us."

I shake my head at her question.
"Well, not this particular stare of suspicion, but I am used to being the centre of attention."

"That's so strange... Well, let's see."

We walk down the street as she reads signs written in an alphabet which is not Aurabesh.
I blink at the weird letters.
"Huh?"

"Let's see... there, those should be enough. This town has a leatherworker, tailor, and armouror. What sort of clothing would work best for you?"

She then notices the confusion on my face.
"What is it?"

"These signs... I can't read them. After we were able to communicate without any problems, I have assumed you'd have the same Basic as I do, but apparently, you use a different alphabet..."

"Basic? We're speaking Common. Or, at least Esaria Common."

"Common? Well, I suppose we have different names for the same concept, then."

"Most likely. Common is very artificial, however - and quite recent."

I stare at a sign, mumbling to myself.
"Though something about these letters does seem vaguely familiar... but I really can't place it."

Then I turn back to her.
"Oh? How so?"

"It was developed after the last war in an effort to promote unity. I was among the first generation taught Common - and since my family was rather supportive of the process, they taught me Common before Jeldaric."

I arc a brow.
"'Jeldaric'?"

"One of the older languages of Havengarde - sometimes called High Illumian."

"I see..."

"But while most people still speak Jeldaric, Jelvara, Halvi, or some other language, Common is fairly strictly enforced as the language of trade, science, and politics."

I nod.
"As makes sense with a language called common."

I then flick my gaze over to a sign, then look back at her. I shift slightly on the spot.

"It's also a confusing nonsense mess, but we can talk about that later. What kind of clothing are you looking for?"

"Ah, well, I do prefer these types of combat robes but assume that any that would live up to my expectations would still garner attention to some degree. So, rather something plain. Something that would make me look inconspicuous as your companion."

"People travelling with Mage-Knights are typically combatants themselves, so we do have a fair bit of leeway. I'd imagine that casting robes would work well enough for their role - as long as you don't get hit. I don't know what your robes are made of, but unless I can find you something enchanted it won't stop swords as well as whatever you have."

"Also, I do not know your finances, but wouldn't want to put a strain on them. So, a simple light to medium armour would be sufficient for me."

Leanna smirks.
"I'm disappointed in you, Xerath. You have the opportunity to take home garments from a world no one else has ever seen, and you want the plainest possible armour?"

Her smile then warms.
"I appreciate your concern, but don't worry about it. I have more than enough saved up to make someone's day."

I return her smile.
"Oh, trust me, I do intend to broaden my wardrobe with local specialities. But I'll do so with my own money. Also, you already made my day. But if you ask like this, I'd like to keep this colour scheme. I like it."

"Alright then."
She thinks for a moment.
"How confident are you that your 'godlike powers' will protect you from whatever dangers we might come across on our way to Illumia?"

I look blankly at her.
"Yes."

She doesn't bat an eye, though.
"So, ease of movement and aesthetics are your primary concerns?"

"Pretty much. And comfortability."

"Exactly. Let me see..."
I fall under her scrutiny for a little while, as she is seemingly mentally dressing me in various outfits.

"Though, given this veil surrounding me, my Force protection is not one hundred percent guaranteed. So, some sort of light protection could be useful."

"Hmmm... Alright, I've got it. Come with me, we have work to do."

We enter a tailor's shop. Various clothes are on prominent display.
I stay at her side as she moves up to the tailor's bench. The craftsman smiles at her, but his smile falters when he sees me. Leanna doesn't waver, however.
"We're looking for a more sane set of casting robes for my friend here."

This seems to assuage him.
"Ah, yes. Let me see what I can do..."

The man produces a measuring tape.
"May I take your measurements, young man?"

That does make me a bit unsure.
"Does it require me to take my robes off?"

"Not at all, if that is uncomfortable for you. I'll just need to know how thick the robes are so I can extrapolate."

"Oh, in that case, it's alright."

Leanna looks slightly strangely at me, but shrugs, and the tailor gets to work.

"Hmm, when would you like this to be ready by?"

"Tomorrow, if possible."

The man baulks.
"You are in such a rush?"

"We are, yes. Tomorrow morning. I am willing to pay good coin for such urgency."

I look at her worriedly.
"Are you really alright with this?"

She nods, shooting down my concerns while continuing to address the tailor.
"As long as you are willing to make it before we leave tomorrow, I am willing to pay."

"How much?"

"Well, a normal set of caster's robes would run about ten crowns. How does thirty sound?"

The man's eyes bulge.
"Thirty... I will see what I can do. WILLIAM!"

"Father?"

"Check our stocks of cotton and dyes. We might have a big job tonight, and I need to know how much we have."

There is a scampering noise as the son – William – speeds away, while the tailor measures me, each time asking how thick my current robes are at a certain place. I give exact answers based on the scale the man uses to measure me. All the while, he takes rapid notes.

He looks over the numbers as William brings him a report on their stocks.
"Yes... I think we can do this. If my word is worth anything, it will be done tonight."

Leanna smiles.
"Thank you."

She hands him several gold coins.
"To cover the cost of the materials. You'll get the rest when we pick it up in the morning."

"Of course. A good night to you!"

With that, we leave the shop.

I turn to her.
"You are willing to pay thrice the rate for this rushed job. I do not have a grasp on your economy, but I'd assume that was not cheap."

"No, it wasn't. Alright, we're not done just yet. Come."
She leads me to what looks like some kind of forge.

I gaze at her, almost dazed, and follow her automatically. I mean, this doesn't even fall under kindness anymore. Just how selfless can one person be? After a moment, I shake my head and return to normal.

She walks up to a burly man working on a piece of metal armour.

"Hello, I was wondering if you could get my friend here a breastplate and greaves by tomorrow morning."

The blacksmith frowns at her, only for the frown to lessen when he sees a Mage Knight instead of the expected green adventurer or noble lacking any knowledge of the practicalities of making armour.
"You want it done by tomorrow morning?"

"By dawn, yes."

"Fifty crowns."

"Make it forty-five and you have a deal."

He is clearly surprised by her number.
"Forty-eight."

"Forty-seven."

He ponders it a bit.
"Ah, ocean take it. Let's see what I need to do."

He walks around me and eventually stops.
"Alright, I figure I've got some stuff I could work into shape for him by morning. That good enough?"

"Absolutely. You can't be expected to make something new in that time."

He nods.
"I'll have it ready for you. Turn up an hour before sunrise and I'll have time to make sure it's fitted properly."

"Done."
She hands him ten coins.
"We'll be there."

They shake hands and we leave.

She smiles at the sky as it starts growing dark.
"Alright, done. Let's get you something to eat."

As we leave, I gaze incredulously at her again.
"Thirty for the robe, and now forty-seven for this armour. Just how much money do you have on you?"

She shrugs.
"Enough. I don't feel the need to tell you how much money I make that I don't use."

"Eh, I can share that sentiment. But still... are you sure it's alright? It sounds like you go to quite the lengths for me here..."

"It's no trouble. Besides, as you mentioned, this is kind of for me as well. I don't want to be stared at more than I already am."

"Even so..."
I bite my lower lip. I hate to be indebted to someone. If only there was something I could do... Oh, I know!
"Could you give me one of your coins for a moment?"

"And I'm buying these people's things. How many people do you think pass through here and purchase from these hardworking shops?"

She blinks as my no doubt odd question registers.
"Okay?"

She hands me a coin.
"Be sure to give it back."

I take the coin between two fingers, staring intently at it. I play with it, letting it wander through deft fingers. I analyse its exact molecular structure, even if I have to strain a bit against the veil still shrouding me.

It appears to be made of an alloy of zinc and gold, giving it a distinctive bright yellow colour. While the zinc is probably in there to make the coin cheaper to produce, gold still accounts for thirty percent of the disc - which is about two finger-widths in diameter. On it are designs of a crown, several words, and what looks like a heraldic crest.

Like everything I see, I memorise the entire layout of this small product. I then close my fist around the coin in front of Leanna. When I open it, there are two identical coins in my palm.

"Uhhh... That's counterfeiting..."

I arc a brow.
"I generally don't like to crash an economy, but for all accounts, this is a hundred percent genuine recreation."

"That doesn't matter, though. The kingdom still didn't mint it."

I glance down. Right, I forgot that I don't have the authority to create new money here.
"I thought that perhaps I could pay you back like this, but you don't seem to be thrilled about that..."

I close my fist again, and the copy I made vanishes. I open my palm once more and only her original remains.

"No, not at all. Thank you for trying, though - just, if you're going to pay me back, try doing it in a way that adds value to a place instead of distorting existing value. Instead of making coins, sell metals or something, or help someone. Even though that would work, it would reduce the value of all other coins.
Eventually, it would still be stealing money from everyone else in the kingdom. So, why not do something productive instead? You don't need to get paid for it to give money to me, I'll count that as being paid back."

I look back up at her, a brow raised in curiosity.
"Do you have something in mind?"

"Oh, I don't know - why not make a metal that's valuable because it's used in something important? Coins stand for something - an iron ingot remains just as useful regardless of where you get it."

I cup my chin. She does raise valid points.
"Hmm..."

"But that's just a simple idea. I'm sure someone more used to powers like yours would have a better idea of what to do with them."

I glance away as she says that and mumble to myself. Never mind the fact I have had these powers for just about a month.
"Yeah... used to them..."

Normally, I continue as an idea comes to mind.
"Well, for starters, I could treat your injury?"

She blinks, but then recognizes what I'm talking about.
"If you feel ready, go ahead."

"Well, a bit more quiet place would be better for that. So I could meditate a bit before tending to you."

"Of course."

As night begins to settle in, white lamps begin to glow throughout the village.

"Also, you mentioned something about food earlier? I could use a bite by now."

"Yes. Let's find that inn."
She quickly leads me through the streets and to an inn.

I follow her once again, and while we walk, I peer into the lamps to see how they generate the light. I notice that they appear to contain some kind of crystal.
"Oh?"
I pause to observe it more closely. Each of these lamps contains a small crystal, much like Leanna's but seemingly less powerful and with a more specific task - generating light.

I mutter under my breath.
"Fascinating..."

But Leanna must've heard me, anyways.
"What is it?"

"These lamps... they contain crystals."

"What do your lamps use?"

"Electricity."

"What's that?"

"Lightning, for example."

"Oh, your lights run on lightning?"

"Not directly. But lightning is a type of electricity, and electricity is used to power most things where I'm from."

"Interesting. How?"

"Well... where do I start? Electricity is a rather broad subject..."
I put a hand to my chin.
"Thus, I'd propose that we keep the broader topic for tomorrow, as it is already getting late. For now, I can tell you that there are many ways of generating power and electricity."

"Alright."

We then enter the inn. Everyone pauses to regard us, their eyes lingering on me. Leanna remains uneasy, but powers through it and makes for the counter. She looks over her shoulder at me as she walks.
"Could you find somewhere for us to sit?"

I nod at her and take in the interior of the room, whilst ignoring the stares. After all, they do not bother me. I try to find a neat place for two to sit, preferably at the sides or in a corner, out of sight of the other patrons. Ah, there is a good spot.
Shortly after I sat down, Leanna arrives and places a key and a bowl in front of me.
"Here's your room key."

I pocket the key.
"Thank you."

I then look at the bowl.

Leanna seems to note my curiosity.
"This one is yours. Mine will be brought over in a minute."

I glance up at her, then back at the bowl and its contents.
"Alright."

The smell approaches my nose. It is, in fact, a stew - same as what my eyes told me. Nothing in it is strong enough to damage me, as expected. After all, I am immune to most biological hazards. Still, I can't help a slight curiosity.
"What's this? As in, what kind of stew is it?"

"Stew. Rabbit stew."
She smiles.
"I'm sorry if it isn't what you're used to, but this is what we have."

I think for a moment, then shrug, as I do not know an animal by this name.
"Rabbit? Eh, whatever. Actually, I don't really care about food much anyway. As long as it keeps me full, that's all I need."

"That's good, then."
Her's arrives shortly after that, and she digs in.

As soon as she gets her food, I start eating, too. The meal remains stew. Its primary ingredients are the various parts of a small type of furry wildlife. I eat with all the grace and dignity my master drilled into me, but still fast, as I am quite hungry. And interestingly enough, so does Leanna - to an extent. She finishes shortly after I do, having eaten with the same kind of grace.
I smile when I catch her eye.

"Was that enough for you? We will have to leave first thing tomorrow - our schedule doesn't leave time for breakfast."

I put a hand to my chin.
"Hm. I won't starve, but I think a second helping would be beneficial in that case."

"Alright."
She stands up and walks off.
Minutes later, she returns with a second helping for both of us.

I have kept her in my vision the entire time, and once she returns, I give her another small smile.
"Seems like my verdict goes for you too, then?"

"Yeah, pretty much."
She sets the bowls down. Each of them is now attended by some kind of flatbread.
"They just finished a loaf too."

"How convenient."

"Indeed. Dig in."
She does so herself, and I idly note the minor contradiction between her large appetite and the slim figure that remains somewhat visible underneath her armour. I ponder if there is something to it, and decide to keep an eye on her in the future. Meanwhile, I also once again begin to eat graciously and efficiently, giving my body the right amount of time to register the intake of food.

Soon enough, we are done again.
"Well, I'm good. You're done?"

I nod.
"That should be sufficient for now."

"Good. We should get some rest."

I stand up.
"Sounds good. Do you want me to tend to your wounds tomorrow, then?"

"That would be as good a time as any."

"Though I presume that you would rest better without them. Including the scrapes and bruises."

She giggles.
"I've slept fine through more than bruises. I'll be fine 'til morning."

I nod.
"Alright, then. If you say so."

I then nod over to the path leading to the rooms.
"Well then, shall we?"

"We shall."
She starts up the steps and I follow at her heels.

We soon reach our respective rooms, doors adjacent to each other in the hallway.
"Well, that was... a day. Goodnight, Xerath."

I chuckle.
"It certainly was. Though... I feel like there must be something I can do for you now. If you'd allow me?"

"What do you have in mind?"

"Not quite healing you, but making you feel more comfortable."

"Oh? How so?"

"With some energy that takes the pain away, numbing it."
I smile slightly at her.
"Just because you are trained to endure some pain and injuries, doesn't mean that your body appreciates them."

"I suppose so. But it's already not really a problem, you don't need to."

"Leanna. You've been of utmost generosity and monumentally helpful to me today. I'd feel like I'd take advantage of you if I can't do something for you. And if only it's allowing you to rest just a tiny bit better."
I gaze at her earnestly. I... I really want to help her. I'm not sure why, yet, but I do.

She blushes slightly.
"It isn't that big a deal... but if it makes you feel better, you can."

"It may not seem like much to you, but to me, it certainly was. So yes, it would make me feel better, thank you. And you as well, I promise."

She smiles slightly.
"Alright."

I step closer to her and place a hand on her shoulder. Closing my eyes, I focus for a moment to pierce the veil around me and send a small surge of rejuvenating energy through her body. The effects are almost immediate - all the small little sore spots that have annoyed her over the course of the day suddenly stop. Her whole body seems to relax somewhat, as the minor ache recedes.

She sighs lightly.
"Thank you."

I open my eyes again and put my hand away, smiling at her.
"You're welcome."

"Alright, let's get some sleep. If you need anything important, tell me - just make sure you have a good reason if you're waking me up at night."

"I'm sure I'll be fine, but thank you for your concern."
My gaze seems to find her eyes as I smile softly.
"Then, I wish you a good night, Leanna."

"It's the least I can do for someone so far from home."

The more I am exposed to this, the more I realise that this is just what she would do for anyone. If I had to guess, this is what the Jedi think they are. Kind and noble warriors utterly devoted to helping those that need help, no matter how minor the problem.

"Good night."

With a lingering gaze and a parting smile, I turn around.
"Until tomorrow, then."

She nods, and enters her room, closing the door with a wave.
"Until then."

There is the soft click of an ancient lock closing. I am left in the hallway with a key and my thoughts. Well, no point standing around. I enter my room as well and take a look around.
The room is small, but not quite cramped, and lacks many amenities that I have come to expect in my travels throughout my galaxy - but the bed looks alright. And quite frankly, that's all that matters.

"Poi?"

I blink at the sound.
"Huh? Where do you come from?"

The pango, who had disappeared from my shoulder before we entered the town, now sits on the windowsill looking at me.
"Poi."

It bounces down from the window and towards me.
"Poi poi, poi."

Then it rolls sideways, hiding behind the bed, before poking its face out.
"Poi, poi poi, poi."

Then he bounces onto the bed and smiles.
"Poi!"

I scratch my hair.
"So, uh, you kind of lost us when we entered the town, found us again, and now are here, wanting to sleep in the room with me. Do I get that right?

He nods.
"Poi."

Then, he breaks into a wide grin.
I return the smile, if less wide, as I step into the room and close the door behind me, locking it for good measure.
"Then you are cordially invited to stay, my little friend. And in case you didn't have dinner yet, feel free to help yourself to this pesky energy surrounding me. It's getting on my nerves."

"Poi!"
He jumps at me, nestling into my hair.

I chuckle, then move towards the bed.
"Alright then, little one. We've got an early start tomorrow, it seems."

"Poi."

I slip out of my shoes, then proceed to slip into the bed. Suddenly, I yawn wearily and run a hand through my hair, making sure not to hit the pango.
"Haaaaaaahhh..."

Leanna was right. Today was very much a day. At this point, who knows what tomorrow might bring? I stare at the ceiling, mumbling to myself.
"I look forward to tomorrow... though I should remain more cautious. How ignorant of me to presume that I'd be something special... she'd go to such lengths for anyone..."

The pango tips his head up from its place on the pillow.
"Poi?"

I grow quiet and close my eyes.
"Ah, ignore my rumblings, little one, and help yourself to your dinner. Have a good night, I'll try to get some sleep."

He settles in and begins to snore softly, cool head leaning against mine. But even so, my mind is awake and swirling in turmoil. As a Sith, I am always aware of my own emotions, and right now, they go haywire in a way I have not experienced since- have not experienced for many years.
Yet, even so, the pango's presence brings a small smile to my lips. I allow it to distract me from my thoughts so that I too can fall asleep. My mind needs the rest.
Slowly, the darkness of the room accepts me, and I fade into another dreamless night, as per usual.