Author's Note: You didn't think I was leaving this to die now did you? Just wanted to give a quick IRL update, I changed jobs recently and am also planning to get back to school to continue some career goals, so there may be some deficiencies with the chapter posting goal I set of two chapters a month, my apologies for that. I want to continue giving many heartfelt thanks to all my readers, followers, and people who have favorited this story, it all means a lot and I just hope that you're enjoying the story. With that being said, here goes Ch 14, enjoy! :)
On the run, having found himself at odds with Rey Skywalker's Jedi Order Kyle Katarn has managed to escape. Pursued relentlessly by Rey's Order, who view him as a dangerous threat to the galaxy, Kyle must evade capture at all costs if he is to rescue his captive apprentice Polina. Meanwhile, Grandmaster Rey Skywalker assembles her most trusted students, determined to find the fugitive…
As Rey exited the temple with determined strides, a throng of her Jedi students accompanied her, their expressions reflecting a mix of concern and dedication. Master Syndulla, Master Serni, and Jan stood at the forefront, their faces etched with varying degrees of worry.
"It's imperative we act swiftly," Syndulla asserted, his voice carrying authority. "With Katarn's escape, the delicate peace we've achieved is at risk..."
Rey's brow furrowed with concern as she considered Syndulla's words. "We cannot afford to jump to conclusions, we must locate him before the Republic arrives," she cautioned, her tone measured. "He can't have gone far."
Syndulla nodded in agreement, his expression grim. "We must deploy all available Jedi to track down Katarn," he asserted.
Serni interjected, her voice tinged with skepticism. "Can we afford to dedicate so many resources to find one man?" she countered, her tone firm, "and besides, Katarn poses no immediate threat to us."
Syndulla's scowl tightened at Serni's words, his frustration evident, "He attacked us and incapacitated Malakar," he reminded her sharply. "We cannot underestimate the danger he poses."
Serni's eyes narrowed in disagreement, "Katarn believes he is acting for the greater good," she argued, her voice impassioned. "He could have killed Malakar, but he chose not to. Even Sela acknowledges this."
Before the debate between the two masters escalated further Rey stepped in, her authority commanding attention as she cut through the tension.
"We cannot afford to waste time in fruitless arguments," she declared, her voice firm. "We must act decisively. Jan, assemble a dedicated tracking party immediately."
Jan nodded in acknowledgment, her expression determined as she prepared to carry out Rey's orders.
"Ronan! Ronan, are you in here?" A voice echoed through the vast chamber of the Archives room, filled with stands meant for holocrons and data modules, though most stood empty.
After several moments, a young human with a clean face and tousled hair emerged from a corner, holding a holocron in his hand and with curious eyes at what was unfolding.
"Jack?" Ronan blinked in surprise at the urgency his the soft voice was unlike that of Jack's, "What's going on?" Ronan asked.
"They're calling for volunteers to hunt down that Unchained that escaped," Jack explained, his tone serious as he stood proudly at the entrance, his dark hair thinly cut and a stubble at his brow contrary to Ronan's more disorganized appearance. "Master Jan is assembling a search party, and I'm going."
Ronan furrowed his brow, considering Jack's words carefully. "But didn't the council say he's not an Unchained?" he corrected.
Jack shrugged dismissively. "Doesn't matter," he replied bluntly. "We can't have a rogue force user roaming around out there, are you coming or not?"
Ronan nodded in understanding, though a hint of reluctance lingered in his expression. "I appreciate the offer, Jack, but I think I'll stay here," he admitted, gesturing to the holocron in his hand. "There's still so much to catalogue, especially with the new holocrons Master Serni brought back from Tython."
Jack sighed, shaking his head in mild frustration. "There's more to being a Jedi than studying holocrons all day, Ronan," he admonished gently. "But suit yourself. Just be careful, don't break your head too much!"
With a final nod, Jack turned and exited the Archives room, leaving Ronan to ponder his friend's words in the quiet solitude of the chamber.
Sela sat perched upon her bed, lost in a sea of uncertainty and introspection. The memory of Kyle, wielding her master's saber, lingered like a shadow in her mind, refusing to fade into the depths of forgetfulness.
She replayed the events in her head, questioning her own actions and motivations. Had she allowed Kyle to leave out of sympathy? Cowardice, perhaps? Or was it simply doubt that had stayed her hand? The answers eluded her, slipping through her fingers like grains of sand.
Her thoughts drifted to the moment when Kyle stood before her, his eyes were of a man of conflicting emotions and yet one who also set his mind to a goal. He had not posed a threat, not in the conventional sense at least, yet she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had settled in the pit of her stomach.
As she grappled with her inner turmoil, a familiar voice broke through the silence, calling out her name. Jack stood at the entrance of her room, concern etched upon his features as he inquired about her well-being.
"Sela, are you alright?" he asked, his tone laced with genuine concern.
Sela offered a strained smile in response, a subtle flinch betraying the turmoil within her. "I'm fine," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.
Jack's next words drew her attention, his tone grave yet resolute. "Master Malakar is still at the infirmary," he informed her, his expression solemn. "The guy really did a number on him. Master Jan's assembling a search team. You in?"
Sela seemed unsure, her gaze drifting to the floor as she weighed her options.
"We can't let him slip away," Jack continued, his voice firm. "He might hurt others if we don't find him."
With a nod and seemingly convinced, Sela rose from her bed. "I'm in," she declared, her voice steady.
Jan and Garen stood side by side, their expressions grave as they surveyed the group of assembled Knights. Their young faces stood out as many were barely out of their teenage years. It all spoke of their relative inexperience compared to the seasoned Jedi Masters.
Jan leaned in towards Garen, her voice barely above a whisper, "We've been scraping the bottom of the barrel lately with Knights."
Garen offered a solemn nod in response, his gaze drifting over the assembled group. "Appearances can be deceiving," he remarked quietly. "We were young once too not long ago."
As the murmurs of conversation filled the air, Jan raised her hand for silence, calling the attention of the gathered Knights.
"Everyone, remember this," Jan cautioned, her tone serious, "Kyle Katarn may not be an Unchained, but he is still dangerous. Stay vigilant and use your communicators if you spot him. Do not engage unless absolutely necessary."
Among the group, Sela and Jack stood side by side, their expressions still as they listened to Master Jan continuing to give out instructions. Suddenly Jack leaned in towards Sela, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he whispered, "Maybe if we kill him, they'll make us Masters?"
Sela raised an eyebrow at his comment, her expression incredulous. Jack quickly backtracked with a scoff, "I'm just kidding, of course."
As the knights readied themselves for the search, Jan discreetly approached Sela with a concerned expression etched on her face. She spoke in a hushed tone, her words meant only for Sela's ears.
"Sela, I've noticed your past fondness with the rogue Jedi," Jan began, her voice concerned. "I sense your hesitation as well. Are you sure you should be joining the search party?"
Sela's gaze flickered as she considered Jan's words. She knew her feelings toward Kyle were complicated, but ultimately, her loyalty lay with the Jedi Order. With a firm expression, she met Jan's gaze and replied, "My loyalties lie with the Order, Master Jan. While I may not believe Kyle is inherently malicious, I understand the danger he poses to others. I wish to make sure he does not hurt anyone or himself."
Jan studied Sela for a moment, her own apprehension evident in her expression. Finally, she relented, albeit reluctantly. "Very well, Sela. You may join the search party," Jan conceded. "But remember, do not get ahead of yourself. If you spot Kyle, call for help immediately. Understood?"
Sela nodded solemnly, "Understood, Master Jan. I will exercise caution," she affirmed, before turning to join the other knights as they prepared to embark on their mission.
As the morning fog blanketed the dense forest, the Jedi search party moved forward in a tight formation, their steps careful and deliberate. Sela walked slowly, her senses heightened as she navigated the thick undergrowth. Her hand hovered near her lightsaber, ready to call on her weapon if need be.
Jack, on the other hand, moved more urgently, his lightsaber already in his hands at the ready. His determination to find the fugitive fueled his every step, driving him deeper into the heart of the forest.
About a dozen other Jedi, all led by Garen stood only some distance from each other, together, they formed an impenetrable line, each Knight vigilant and watchful as they pressed onward, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of movement. The sun's rays filtered through the upper foliage, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor as they advanced.
As they ventured deeper into the forest, Jack's voice cut through the silence, drawing Sela's attention. "So, what was it like?" he asked eagerly, a glint of excitement in his tone, "Facing off against an Unchained, I mean."
Sela's steps faltered slightly as she considered his question. Memories of her encounter with Kyle flooded her mind. "It was... strange," she finally replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "I expected danger, but he didn't seem... like a threat."
Jack raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Really? But he had your master's lightsaber. He could've hurt someone."
"He didn't attack and I... hesitated," Sela admitted, her gaze fixed on the forest floor as she recounted the encounter. "I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to him than meets the eye."
Jack nodded, his expression softening slightly. "I get it. But we have to be careful. He could still be dangerous, even if he doesn't seem like it."
Sela sighed, a conflicted look crossing her features. "I know, Jack. But... something about him felt different. I can't explain it."
Jack's confusion grew, but he relented, realizing he wouldn't get any more from her at the moment. "Fine, just... be careful, okay? We can't afford any mistakes out here."
Sela nodded silently, her thoughts still consumed unresolved questions.
Kyle stumbled through the dense forest, his breath ragged and his muscles aching with exhaustion. The trees blurred past him, the rhythmic pounding of his footsteps echoing through the silent forest. His mind was whirlpool of thoughts yet one thing remained clear: He had to put as much distance between himself and the temple as possible.
The temple, with its imposing cliff side presence and watchful eyes, was already a distant memory, lost behind the thick curtain of trees. Kyle pushed himself forward, ignoring the burning in his legs and the heaviness in his chest.
As he ran, the weight of everything he had done up till this point began to bore down on him, each step reminding him that he now found himself as an enemy to all and friend to none. But despite the doubt and uncertainty gnawing at his mind, one thing kept him going: the image of Polina's face, her eyes filled with fear and uncertainty.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity of running, Kyle came to a sudden stop, his chest heaving as he gasped for air. He leaned against a tree, his body trembling with exhaustion as he slowly descended down onto the ground.
Taking a moment to catch his breath, Kyle closed his eyes, the sounds of the forest surrounding him like a comforting embrace.
Kyle slowly regained consciousness and as he did he found himself in a serene and otherworldly place. The darkness around him was not oppressive but rather comforting, like the vast expanse of space dotted with countless stars. He floated weightlessly, suspended in this tranquil void, his senses heightened as he took in his surroundings.
At first, Kyle felt a sense of disorientation, unsure of how he had come to be in this ethereal realm. Yet, despite the unfamiliarity of his surroundings, he remained surprisingly calm, allowing himself to simply observe and take in the experience.
As he floated amidst the darkness, his gaze wandered, searching for any signs of life or movement. But apart from the serene stillness that surrounded him, there was little else to see.
Then, suddenly, a faint image began to materialize before him, growing clearer with each passing moment. Kyle's heart skipped a beat as he recognized the figure lying against the tree, asleep. It was him, but from a different perspective, as if he were observing himself from a distant vantage point.
A wave of realization washed over Kyle as he struggled to comprehend the significance of what he was witnessing. Was this some sort of vision? A glimpse into another reality or some kind of dream? He couldn't be certain, but one thing was clear: there was more to this place than met the eye.
As Kyle floated amidst the tranquil void, a faint voice pierced the silence, growing louder and more distinct with each passing moment.
"Here!"
His heart quickened as he recognized the voice as Jan's, it seemed to be filled with panic and urgency. It was as if he were eavesdropping on a distant conversation, a spectator to events unfolding beyond his comprehension.
But then, just as suddenly as it had appeared, the image began to fade, dissipating into the ether like a wisp of smoke. Kyle's heart raced as he felt himself being drawn back towards his physical body, the sensation disorienting yet strangely exhilarating.
With a jolt, Kyle woke up, his body drenched in sweat as he sat up abruptly. He looked around, his gaze darting to his own form lying against the tree. For a moment, he was filled with confusion and disbelief, but as the pieces of the puzzle began to click into place, a sense of wonder washed over him.
Had he just experienced an out-of-body journey? The thought both thrilled and unnerved him. But there was no time to dwell on it now. With a deep breath, Kyle focused his mind, intent on exploring this newfound ability further.
Lying back against the tree, he closed his eyes and cleared his thoughts, willing himself to detach from his physical form once more. As he drifted into the void, the scene outside his own body unfolded before him once again, his consciousness free to roam wherever it pleased.
"Over here!"
Once more he heard something, Jan's voice. Kyle turned towards the direction of the voice, his form gliding effortlessly through the void. He watched in astonishment as the veiled surroundings of the forest blurred past him, the lake rushing beneath him as he traversed vast distances with ease. Jan's voice continued to guide him, drawing him closer with each passing moment.
Suddenly, Kyle found himself back amidst the familiar scenery of the forest, but disoriented and unsure of which way to turn. The sound of Jan's voice faded, leaving him alone in the silence once more.
Before he could make sense of his surroundings, Kyle's gaze fell upon Jan, her figure rising above a small ridge as she overlooked the scenery. Unbeknownst to her, Kyle stood right in front of her, watching her with a mix of admiration and longing.
"Spread out, we have to close him off…"
Jan's voice broke through the silence once more, her words echoing in Kyle's ears. Though he heard her speak, he also sensed something more beneath her words, fragments of thoughts and emotions that he couldn't quite grasp in his current state of confusion.
As Kyle watched Jan move through the forest, a profound sense of sadness began to wash over him. He wanted to reach out to her, to hold her close, but he knew it was futile, both in the state he found himself in and in reality. And yet, he continued to hold her with tenderness in his heart.
In his ethereal state, Kyle felt a strange sensation coursing through him, a tingling warmth spreading from his fingertips. Without thinking, he reached out towards Jan's distant form, his hand extending as if to touch her face.
To his surprise, as his fingers brushed the air where Jan stood, he felt a ripple of energy spread outwards. The wind around him seemed to respond to his touch, swirling gently in a mesmerizing dance. Leaves whispered and twigs rustled as if acknowledging his presence.
"What is…" Kyle whispered, his voice barely audible even to himself, yet the words seemed to break through the air with palpable weight in the ambiance.
As Jan's voice crackled through the commlink, Kyle's attention snapped back to her. "Garen, what's the status of your search team?" she inquired, her tone tinged with urgency.
Garen's response came swiftly. "We're slowly corralling the other bank," he reported. "But I sense something... unusual in the Force."
Jan acknowledged his report with a nod, though her brow furrowed slightly at Garen's mention of the Force anomaly. "Keep me informed," she instructed before clipping the commlink back onto her belt.
As Jan resumed her search, Kyle continued to experiment with his newfound abilities. He focused on the sound of his own voice, projecting it subtly into the forest around him. He then stated more loudly, "Jan!"
And to his surprise, he felt the sound ripple through the air, carrying further than he expected.
Then, as Jan paused and turned her head, as if sensing something amiss, Kyle held his breath. Their eyes met briefly, a moment of stillness before Jan turned away to continue her task.
A heavy sigh escaped Kyle's lips as he watched her depart. Despite the sadness weighing on his heart, a spark of hope ignited within him. If he could manipulate the elements of this realm, perhaps he could find a way to escape from his pursuers, perhaps he could obtain one of those commlinks. With determination in his eyes, he began to form a plan.
As the search party led by Garen pressed on through the forest, closing in on the direction opposite of Jan's, the tension in the air grew palpable. Sela and Jack maintained their positions within the line, moving cautiously as they scanned their surroundings for any sign of their elusive target.
A heavy silence settled over them, broken only by the rustling of leaves and the occasional snap of a twig underfoot. Sela couldn't shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at her, a sense that something was amiss in the Force. She glanced around nervously, her grip tightening on her lightsaber.
Jack, ever vigilant, pressed forward with his weapon at the ready, his senses alert to any potential threat. Every shadow seemed to hold a hidden danger, and he spared no corner from his scrutiny.
Suddenly, a blood-curdling scream shattered the silence, echoing through the forest and sending a chill down Sela's spine.
"Here, he's here!"
Without hesitation, both Jedi turned towards the source of the sound and sprinted towards it, their hearts pounding with adrenaline-fueled urgency.
They found a fellow Jedi, a young Zabrak with his lightsaber ignited, standing before a cluster of bushes that concealed a dark crevice. Jack wasted no time in demanding an explanation, his voice edged with urgency.
"What happened!?"
"I heard movement in there," the young Zabrak explained breathlessly, his eyes wide with fear.
"The Unchained is probably inside," Jack tensed, ready to spring into action, but Sela held him back with a firm hand on his arm. "We need to wait for Master Garen," she insisted, her voice steady despite the situation.
Before they could make a decision, another cry pierced the air from a different direction, followed by another, and then another. Panic spread through the ranks of the search party as master Garen struggled to focus on any one call amidst the avalanche of voices, all calling out spotting of the rogue Jedi.
Confusion clouded the Jedi's minds as they grappled with the sudden turn of events, uncertain of what lay ahead in the depths of the forest.
As the chaos of cries and callouts engulfed them, the trio of younger Jedi found themselves overwhelmed and uncertain of how to proceed. Amidst the confusion, Jack took charge, determined not to be fooled by the tricks around them.
"We need to draw him out," Jack declared, his voice firm with determination. "You," he pointed to the Zabrak, "come with me. Sela, stay back and cover our flank in case he tries to flee."
Sela hesitated, "But what if he's already gone?" she questioned, her tone apprehensive.
Jack remained determined, "We can't take that chance," he replied firmly. "We need to act fast. Trust me on this."
With lightsabers ignited, Jack and the Zabrak dashed further into the forest, leaving Sela alone.
Feeling a sense of unease settle over her, Sela turned to scan the area, her heart pounding rapidly in her chest. Despite her training, she couldn't shake the feeling of uselessness that gnawed at her, her mind still troubled by her previous encounter with Kyle.
After a moment of indecision, Sela reluctantly lowered her guard and returned her lightsaber to her belt. She found a nearby rock to sit on, her thoughts swirling with uncertainty. She wondered about her Master's status and feared for the future of the Order if they failed to apprehend Kyle.
Lost in her contemplation, Sela couldn't shake an emerging feeling of futility that had began to nag at her. The search for Kyle had yielded no results so far, and she couldn't shake the suspicion that he was already long gone, perhaps even off-planet by now.
As doubt gnawed at her, Sela couldn't help but question her decisions. Should she have listened to Master Jan's suggestion to stay back at the temple? Was she simply wasting her time and energy chasing after a ghost? More questions began to add up on her.
As Sela sat on the rock lost in her thoughts, she heard a rustling in the bushes just ahead of her. Initially dismissing it as nothing more than the forest's natural movements, she remained seated, her guard lowered.
However, as the rustling persisted, Sela's curiosity was sparked. She leaned forward slightly, squinting into the foliage, expecting to see a small animal scurrying about. But to her shock and disbelief, it was Kyle who emerged from the bushes, moving with a stealth that spoke of practiced skill.
Sela's breath caught in her throat as she watched Kyle move further into the forest, his form disappearing amidst the dense undergrowth. She was torn between conflicting emotions—shock, disbelief, and a hint of relief that he seemed unharmed.
Uncertain of what to do next, Sela remained rooted to the spot, her mind racing with questions and doubts. Should she follow him? Alert the others? Or simply observe from a safe distance?
As Kyle's figure faded into the shadows of the forest, Sela knew she had to make a decision—and quickly. But as she grappled with her next move, a sense of hesitation held her back, leaving her paralyzed in indecision.
Kyle moved through the forest with careful steps, leaving his pursuers behind. He had managed to finally fool them, using his newfound ability that he was still unsure of its true nature but this was not the time nor place to ponder on it. As he reached an empty clearing, he paused, his senses sharp despite the tranquil surroundings. With a faint smile, he retrieved the commlink he had acquired from one of the Jedi, his fingers deftly working to adjust its settings in an attempt to establish a connection with AD-10.
Amidst his concentration, a subtle sound caught Kyle's attention, prompting him to whirl around, hand instinctively reaching for his lightsaber. There, standing a few meters away, was Sela, her presence unexpected yet undeniable.
Kyle's gaze locked onto Sela, his stance defensive but not overtly hostile. Sela, equally taken aback, halted in her tracks, uncertainty flickering in her eyes as she faced the Rogue Jedi. Her mind raced, grappling with the surrealness of the encounter and the myriad of possible outcomes.
In a moment of quiet tension, Sela's voice broke through the silence with a simple, tentative "Hi," an attempt to bridge the gap between them and navigate the delicate balance of their unforeseen meeting.
In response to Sela's nervous greeting, Kyle couldn't help but feel unimpressed. With a wry smirk, he quipped, "If that's how you greet a potential threat, I can't imagine how you'd deal with an actual enemy. Invite them to a nice dinner, perhaps?"
Sela let out a nervous chuckle, her demeanor reflecting a mixture of apprehension and boldness as she took a cautious step forward. Kyle remained on guard, his senses keenly attuned to any hint of danger.
"I don't want to fight you, Kyle," Sela spoke earnestly, her voice tinged with sincerity. "I just want to talk."
With a wary gaze, Kyle watched as Sela reached for her commlink, his hand hovering near his lightsaber in readiness. To his surprise, Sela tossed the commlink towards him, a gesture of goodwill. Kyle caught it, his expression shifting to one of puzzled curiosity as he examined the device.
"You're either very brave or very dumb," Kyle remarked dryly, his tone laced with amusement.
Sela, now seated on the ground with her legs crossed, couldn't help but giggle at Kyle's comment. "I've been told that before," she admitted with a sheepish smile.
As Kyle chuckled in response, he leaned against a nearby tree, creating a subtle yet distinct barrier between them.
Almost immediately, Sela's curiosity got the better of her as she then asked.
"What's your plan?" she inquired, her voice laced with inquiry.
Kyle's response was guarded, his arms crossed as he contemplated his answer.
"That's need-to-know information," he replied curtly. "As far as I'm concerned, nobody but me needs to know."
Sela couldn't help but inwardly admit that her initial question may have been rather foolish. She rephrased it, choosing her words more carefully this time. "What are your intentions, then?" she asked, her tone softer yet still tinged with curiosity. "And why did you choose not to heed Master Skywalker's guidance?"
Kyle sidestepped the first part of Sela's question.
"Well, let's just say I'm not entirely convinced that your Master Skywalker knows what she's doing," he remarked, his tone measured. "Hiding away and giving up, leaving the galaxy ripe for a tyrant's takeover isn't exactly the Jedi way."
Sela pondered Kyle's words for a moment, her expression thoughtful as she considered his perspective. Eventually, she spoke up in defense of Rey.
"I understand your concerns, but Master Rey, she's wise, even if she seems cryptic at times," Sela countered, her voice steady. "She wants what's best for the galaxy, and sometimes that means making difficult decisions."
As Sela continued, Kyle listened attentively.
"Since the war with the Mandalorians, the Jedi can't afford to be callous," she explained. "We have to strive for peace, flawed though it may be."
Kyle absorbed Sela's words, intrigued by her perspective. He then shifted the conversation to the Mandalorian War, hoping to learn more about it.
"What exactly happened during the war? How did the Mandalorians come to establish their own empire?" he asked.
Sela paused, momentarily taken aback by the unexpected question. Collecting her thoughts, she began to recount the turbulent events that followed the fall of the First Order.
"After the First Order's defeat, there was a brief period of peace," she began, her voice tinged with gravity. "But then it was chaos, different groups across the galaxy vying for power."
Sela's expression bore a somber weight as she recounted the tumultuous days of anarchy that gripped the galaxy. Kyle observed the heaviness in her demeanor but opted to maintain his silence.
"Master Skywalker managed to bring some semblance of order to the chaos by rallying many to her," Sela explained, "The New Jedi Order was formed thanks to what we call the Awakening of the Force."
Kyle furrowed his brow, "Awakening of the Force?" he repeated Sela's words, "What was that?" he asked, prompting Sela to provide further explanation.
Sela explained, "After the Decimation of Luke Skywalker's temple, the Force channeled a new wave of force affinity for thousands across the galaxy, it allowed them to tap into the force with ease," she explained, her voice carrying a semblance of sorrow followed by reverence, "Master Rey was the first."
Kyle listened intently, the story fascinated him as much as it helped him better understand the galaxy's situation unbeknownst to Sela.
"With Master Rey's guidance, thousands were able to use their newfound powers to bring peace, freedom and justice to the galaxy as Jedi," Sela continued, a hint of pride evident in her tone.
Kyle couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment at the story. However, the tone of Sela's voice shifted, growing somber as she continued her tale.
"But then the Mandalorians began a massive crusade, led by Mandalore the Resolute," Sela added, her voice tinged with sadness.
Kyle absorbed Sela's words, part of him knew where this was leading and he dreaded it.
Sela's voice trembled with emotion as she recounted the harrowing events that unfolded during the war, "Master Rey tried to advocate for peace and dialogue between the Mandalorians and the Republic," she began, her words trembling, "She tried to prevent another galactic war."
Kyle's expression was visibly saddened as he absorbed Sela's words. The turmoil of war and its devastating consequences echoed in his mind.
"But the Mandalorians didn't listen," Sela continued, her voice wavering with emotion. "They unleashed a terrible war against the galaxy and many Jedi, they..."
A tear glistened in Sela's eye as she spoke, her grief palpable. She paused, unable to continue, the memories of loss and devastation too raw to bear.
Kyle's heart clenched with empathy as he witnessed Sela's pain. "I understand," he said softly, his tone filled with compassion. "I know the cost of war all too well."
Sela wiped away her tears, she met Kyle's gaze. "Then you understand why we must strive to keep the peace with the Mandalorians," she asserted, her voice steadying.
"We can't afford to let history repeat itself."
Rising to her feet, Sela gestured towards the path to the temple. "You should return to the temple," she urged, her tone gentle yet firm. "Talk to Master Rey. She may not have all answers but she is wise and strong. She'll know what to do and I know you don't want to do this Kyle, I know you're a good man," she stepped closer "I have seen it, you're one of us."
"Thank you, Sela," Kyle said sincerely, a faint smile forming on his mouth and gratitude evident in his voice.
Sela's eyes shimmered with a glimmer of hope as she momentarily believed she had convinced Kyle to reconsider. However, her hopes were dashed as Kyle spoke with unwavering determination.
"But I won't go back," he stated firmly, his gaze steady. "I have a promise to keep, and neither Rey nor anyone else will help me keep it."
Despite his refusal, Kyle's words carried a tone of encouragement as he turned his attention to Sela. "You're clearly wise and strong, perhaps more so than your own masters would have you believe," he remarked, his voice earnest. "Don't just follow everything you're told."
Before Sela could respond, their conversation was abruptly interrupted by a cackling voice emanating from a commlink, "Master Kyle, are you there, Master Kyle?" AD-10's voice chirped urgently, a hint of static punctuating his words.
Without sharing further words, Kyle reached for the commlink.
"AD-10, I hear you," Kyle responded calmly, his focus shifting to the urgent matter at hand.
As Kyle engaged in conversation on the commlink, Sela paced around the clearing, her frustration evident as she grappled with her conflicting emotions.
Her mind raced through various options, knowing that Kyle's actions could potentially jeopardize peace. Yet, she also wrestled with the knowledge that Kyle was not the villain many perceived him to be. As she glanced down at her lightsaber, a fleeting thought crossed her mind, but she quickly dismissed it, her inner turmoil unresolved.
Amidst her inner battle, Kyle's voice broke through her thoughts. Turning to face him, Sela saw him standing a few feet away, he met her gaze with a solemn expression. "This is where our paths diverge," he said, his tone firm yet tinged with regret. "Don't follow me."
Sela's mind remained a jumble of conflicting emotions as she struggled to find clarity. Before she could gather her thoughts, she sensed movement behind her. Turning around, she saw several figures emerging from the forest—the Jedi search party.
Realizing his pursuers has been closing in, Kyle wasted no time, swiftly making his departure and leaving Sela behind. As the search party arrived, Sela stood alone in the clearing.
A stunned Sela was soon met by Jack, who approached her with a puzzled expression, trying to get her attention. "Sela, what happened? You weren't back at the line," he asked, concern evident in his voice. "Did you see the Fallen One?"
Sela's mind continued to battle with her emotions, torn between whether to confide in her friends or keep silent. She weighed the consequences of her actions, grappling with the decision to be truthful or deceitful.
As Sela hesitated, Garen approached her, his azure skin and stern bearded gaze contrasting with her pale complexion and disposition as he towered over her. With determined eyes, he asked plainly, "Sela, did you see Kyle Katarn?"
Sela's uncertainty seemed to fade in the face of Garen's direct question. Nodding slowly, she confirmed, "Yes, Master Garen, I saw him."
Garen's gaze hardened as he pressed further, "Where did he go?"
Without hesitation, Sela pointed in the direction where Kyle had departed.
Kyle found himself once more hurriedly navigating through the dense forest, his breath ragged as he pushed himself to keep running. With each stride, he leaped over fallen logs and dodged between thick underbrush, his senses keenly attuned to the sounds of pursuit echoing behind him.
Meanwhile, Garen and the other Jedi pursued relentlessly, their determination evident in their swift movements. Jack passed by several of his fellow Jedi, exchanging determined nods as they all shared the common goal of apprehending the Fallen One.
Garen's commanding voice cut through the rush of the chase as he relayed crucial information to the group. "Kyle is approaching the Jallowfell cliffsides," he announced, his tone unwavering. "One group, we'll follow up to the cliffside. The rest of you, keep on Kyle's trail."
Without hesitation, Jack stepped forward, determination blazing in his eyes. "I'll keep on him," he declared, his voice determined as he prepared to pursue Kyle without relent.
Sela, ever vigilant, followed closely behind Jack, she managed to follow the pace despite her mind still muddled with questions.
As the group of Jedi continued to trail behind Kyle, Jack, his lightsaber firmly gripped in hand, grew increasingly impatient, his determination to capture the rogue Jedi burning fiercely within him.
With each step, Jack's impatience strengthened. He was determined to prove himself worthy of more than just a knight, to bring Kyle to justice and demonstrate his valor to his fellow Jedi.
Meanwhile, Garen's group strategically moved to the side to cut off Kyle's potential escape routes, their movements precise and calculated. Sensing the opportunity to close in on the rogue Jedi, Jack surged forward, his senses honed in on his target.
Soon enough, Kyle came into view, mere meters away from Jack. With a surge of adrenaline, Jack seized the moment, his lightsaber igniting with a brilliant glow as he unleashed a powerful throw.
The saber soared through the air, slicing through the dense foliage of the forest with a sharp hiss as it hurtled toward Kyle, its trajectory set on intercepting the rogue Jedi's path.
In a breathtaking display of agility, Kyle executed a remarkable spinning dodge, narrowly avoiding the incoming saber. As the blade whizzed past, the searing heat singed the tips of his hair, a close call that left him unfazed but more alert than ever.
But Jack was quick to react. With a quick leap, he intercepted the saber mid-air, his movements fluid and precise. Descending upon Kyle with unwavering determination, Jack brought down his blue lightsaber, poised to strike.
In that critical moment, Kyle ignited his own lightsaber, the brilliant beam of light casting a glow across the forest clearing. The clash of sabers echoed through the air as the two Jedi locked in a fierce duel.
Witnessing the intense confrontation unfold before her, Sela's heart raced with fear and urgency. With a cry of desperation, she pleaded for Jack to stop, her voice filled with anguish at the prospect of violence between fellow Jedi.
"Jack, no! Stop!" Sela's voice rang out, her plea cutting through the chaos of the moment. Her hands trembled as she watched the duel unfold, her gaze shifting between Kyle and Jack, her heart torn between loyalty to her friend and the desire to prevent bloodshed.
Jan's boots pounded against the forest floor as she led her Jedi search party through the dense foliage, her senses sharp and her mind focused. The knights followed closely behind, their footsteps echoing hers as they moved swiftly in the direction where Kyle had been spotted.
Amidst the rustle of leaves and the distant calls of wildlife, Jan's voice cut through the air as she spoke into her commlink, "Garen, we're only a few clicks out. Do you copy?"
Silence greeted her inquiry, and Jan's brows furrowed in concern. She repeated her call, the urgency in her voice rising as she awaited a response.
Finally, Garen's voice crackled through the commlink, his tone firm and determined, "We've got Kyle cornered."
Relief washed over Jan at the news, her heart racing with anticipation. "Understood," she replied, her voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through her veins. "We'll be there soon."
With renewed determination, Jan quickened her pace, her Jedi companions matching her stride as they pressed on toward their target.
The forest echoed with the clash of lightsabers as the duel between Jack and Kyle intensified, in spite of Sela's desperate call to stop. Jack's movements were swift and relentless, his saber dancing through the air as he launched a barrage of strikes at Kyle, who remained steadfast in his defense.
Jack's attacks came with ferocious speed and precision, each strike aimed at wearing down Kyle's defenses. His scowl deepened with each failed attempt to breach Kyle's guard, his determination unyielding as he sought to prove himself worthy in combat.
Kyle, on the other hand, remained composed and focused, his expression stern as he parried each blow with calculated precision. Despite being pushed onto the defensive, he stood his ground, his resolve unwavering as he weathered Jack's relentless assault.
As the clash of lightsabers momentarily ceased, Jack stepped back, his chest heaving with exertion. The other Jedi knights, their lightsabers ignited, closed in around him, forming a semi-circle as they prepared to engage in combat. Sela lingered behind, her expression torn between worry and uncertainty.
Kyle remained cautious, his eyes darting between his adversaries as he assessed the situation. With slow, deliberate movements, he shifted to the side, maintaining a safe distance from the group of Jedi now arrayed before him.
Jack, visibly tired yet still as determined as ever, leveled a scornful gaze at Kyle. "Give up, Unchained," he spat, his voice dripping with disdain.
Kyle's response was silence, his expression inscrutable as he weighed his options. His brow furrowed in thought as he considered his next move.
Sela's heart pounded with urgency as she witnessed the tense standoff between Kyle and the other Jedi. She glanced towards the approaching figures of Master Garen's group, their lightsabers ignited and ready for action. Without hesitation, she stepped forward, her voice cutting through the tension like a beacon of reason.
"Stop this!" Sela's voice rang out, her hands raised in a gesture of peace. "We are Jedi. We are meant to fight together, not against each other."
Jack's scowl deepened as he dismissed Sela's plea, his grip tightening on his lightsaber. "Get out of the way, Sela," he growled, his tone laced with frustration.
But Sela stood her ground, her gaze unwavering as she addressed Kyle directly. "Please, Kyle," she pleaded, her voice soft but urgent. "Come with us. Listen to reason, listen to the Force…"
As Kyle began to lower his lightsaber, Sela's words seemed to resonate with the other Jedi as well, their weapons lowering in response. Hope flickered in Sela's eyes, but before the moment could solidify, Garen arrived on the scene, his presence commanding and authoritative.
"In the name of the Jedi Order and the Reformed Republic, surrender, Kyle," Garen's voice boomed, his lightsaber igniting with a fierce hum.
Sela opened her mouth to speak in Kyle's defense, but before she could utter a word, Kyle unleashed a powerful force push, catching Jack, Garen, and the others off guard. Seizing the opportunity, Kyle turned and fled, his footsteps echoing through the forest as he raced onward.
Sela had been untouched by the force push and without hesitation began following closely behind, calling out to Kyle to wait. Behind her, Garen, Jack, and the other Jedi recovered quickly, their determination renewed as they resumed their pursuit.
As Kyle continued to run through the woods, the cliffside loomed larger, the drop becoming more treacherous with each step. Sela pushed herself harder, matching Kyle's pace as she chased after him.
Through the commlink, AD-10's voice crackled, "Master Kyle, I have picked up your signal now, I am positioning for pick up…"
"Stay on my signal AD!" Kyle replied bluntly as he then focused solely on his path ahead.
As Kyle sprinted toward the edge of the cliff, his heart pounded exhilaration and adrenaline. With each step, the ground seemed to fall away beneath him, the drop below dauntingly steep. But Kyle's focus remained fixed on the other side of the forest, his goal clear in his mind.
As he began reaching the edge, Kyle spared a quick glance over to the side, spotting Jan's group closing in from one side. Sela's voice rang out behind him, a desperate plea for him to stop, but Kyle's resolve was unyielding.
"Kyle, wait!" Sela's voice called out through the forest.
But Kyle pressed on, his muscles straining as he pushed himself harder, his determination unshaken. With a final surge of energy, he launched himself into the air, soaring over the gaping chasm and towards the other side.
Sela's heart raced as she followed in Kyle's footsteps, her determination driving her forward despite the feat she had seen. Behind her, Jack's voice pierced the air with a desperate yell.
"Sela, don't do it!" Jack's voice carried a note of worry, but Sela paid it no heed as she continued her pursuit of Kyle, she also arrived at the edge and with every fiber of her strength pushed herself up and away through the air.
As Sela soared through the sky she felt a rush of excitement unlike she'd ever feel. She was taking a true leap of faith, trusting in her own abilities and the Force to carry her to safety.
As Sela descended towards the other side of the chasm, her heart raced with a mixture of excitement and fear. The wind whipped past her, tugging at her clothes and silver hair as she plummeted towards the stony terrain below.
But as she neared the ground, her eyes widened in shock as she saw Kyle not landing on the ground, but instead landing upon the side door of a ship that swooped down and upwards, snatching him from the air.
Realization struck Sela like a thunderbolt as she looked down and saw the unforgiving rocks below rushing up to meet her. Panic surged through her veins as she desperately flailed her arms, trying to slow her descent.
With a sickening thud, Sela crashed against the stony cliffside, her body jolting with pain as she struggled to maintain her grip. But the rocks were slick with moisture and her mind overburdened in panic Sela's fingers slipped, her desperate attempts to find purchase proving futile.
Her heart pounded in her chest as she slid ever closer to the edge, the yawning chasm beckoning to her with its terrifying embrace. Fear gnawed at her insides as she fought against gravity's relentless pull, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she searched desperately for something, anything, to anchor herself.
But the cliffside offered no reprieve, its jagged surface offering nothing but treacherous footing. With a final, desperate cry, Sela's grip failed her completely, and she teetered on the brink of the precipice, her body tilting dangerously over the edge.
As Sela began to fall, a wave of despair washed over her, the precipice below yawning open to claim her. But in the moment of her greatest peril, she felt a strong grip wrap around her forearm, halting her descent. With tear-filled eyes, she looked up to see Kyle, his face strained with effort as he held onto her.
With a hint of jest, Kyle broke the tense silence. "You know, I don't mind saving you and all but could you put some effort here too?" he quipped, his voice laced with straining.
Sela nodded, her focus returning as she grasped onto Kyle's outstretched hand, pulling herself up with all her strength. After a few moments of struggle, the two Jedi managed to haul themselves onto solid ground, breathing heavily as they collapsed in exhaustion.
Lying side by side on the ground, Sela glanced over at Kyle, gratitude shining in her eyes. Despite their differences, he had risked everything to save her.
Meanwhile, Kyle gazed across the cliffside, his Jedi pursuers visible in the distance. As he watched them, a pang of uncertainty tugged at his heart. He had abandoned his escape to rescue Sela, someone he didn't know and who had been trying to capture him mere minutes back.
Reflecting on his actions, Kyle couldn't help but wonder if he had made the right choice. But as he looked at Sela lying beside him, safe and sound, he knew that, in that moment, saving her had been the only option that mattered.