Private A Jedi's weapon

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Shadow Temple | OBJECTIVE: Meeting, Teaching, whatever works | POST #: 1
TAG (ALLIES) : Braze
TAG (FOES) : @​

Vanagor was standing by the window of his office at the Shadow Temple, a mug of iced caf in his hand (don’t tell his wife, though she already knows) and was watching the “Jedi Ace” class going through their morning exercises in the morning sky.

“Master Caltin” Spoke a very robotic, yet somehow effeminate voice.

Master… VANAGOR Caltin had thought to himself with an annoyed laugh.

What is it, Threepio? Not that one.

“I believe that the protocols of this Temple have been broken…”

Quirking an eyebrow and turning in the direction of the protocol droid who was standing in the doorway of his office. ... and that is?

“I believe that Padawan Learners are coming to this Temple, sir. On the next transport from The Prosperity”. There were annoyed beeps coming from R0-03 who was charging in the right corning. “I do not wish to annoy Master Caltin!”

We don't necessarily take young Learners because we don’t offer many basic skills classes. That being said, we do not turn anyone away. Now show me the list.

“Yes sir.” Handing him the datapad, Caltin looked it over. There were several wanting to take a piloting class, as well as a few others touring the facility who were ready to be Knighted. One of the names stood out. “Braze”. He had only met the Learner once, they didn’t really meet, it was more of a… “confrontation” but that was the past; and though he would not admit it for a long time, the big man deserved what he got. Since then though, he had paid attention to what the Padawan was learning and saw a pattern. A pattern that he could help with, even if it was only a suggestion.

This one. Pointing to the name. Bring them to the armory please. I will be waiting outside of it.

“I beg your pardon, sir. Does that not break protocol?” Threepio got another earful from “Rude”. “I beg your pardon! I believe it is you who are annoying.”

We’ll be fine, Threepio.

​

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Caltin Vanagor

Braze was curious to see what the 'Shadow Temple' was all about. It had a kind of sinister name, but when he arrived, it didn't really seem all that foreboding. He didn't really know much, if anything, about this particular temple and started to wonder if this was where Jedi Shadows went to train. He'd been sketching and working on designs for a few blade projects he had in mind on the way here and neatly tucked those away. He was surprised when he was separated from his peers, uncertain what he had done to garner such attention. He had wanted to tour the place and see what happened here, but concern grew as he saw his peers heading off while he was led somewhere else by a droid.

Maybe Jasper Kai'el didn't think Braze was ready to be a knight, but maybe that didn't matter. There was a strange feeling surrounding the topic of placement and ranking within the broader New Jedi Order. Aris Noble had made it clear he intended on becoming the battlemaster—something Braze had wanted to do. However, seeing the way everyone cheered for Aris in his spar against Azurine Varek only cemented that fact further in Braze's mind, leading him to explore his initial projects and the idea of becoming a weapons master.

Would that be where he'd fit? Did fitting in somewhere even matter? There was a lot to think about, but Braze just wasn't sure. He didn't want to step on others' toes or feel like he was competing for something when he knew it wouldn't pan out in his favor, especially when someone else could fill that position with ease. He sighed, letting his thoughts come to a halt as he glanced over at where he was being led. Tightening his mental shields, Braze schooled his emotions into a calm, level state, trying to push aside all the confusing, angsty mood swings he was having.

​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Shadow Temple | OBJECTIVE: Meeting, Teaching, whatever works | POST #: 2
TAG (ALLIES) : Braze
TAG (FOES) : @​

When he saw “Threepio” worriedly leading through the Padawan through the Corridor, Caltin cracked his neck as he thought about what to say about this. To this point, none of the previous Learners had been down here, mainly because construction had not been completed inside yet, but with everything being done, he picked an interesting “test subject”.

Not cool!

Okay fine, how about “Maiden Voyage…”... “Shakedown flight”?

How about “First”.

Way to make it sound like a “date”. Anyway, once they were in earshot, he picked up his head and spoke like a gracious host. Welcome to the Shadow Temple. Feel free and ask “the question” when you are ready.

A weird comment to make as he smirked, then turned to open up the vault. Every first question I have gotten, every single one, has been “Why is it called ‘The Shadow Temple’?” It’s really nothing “world shattering”, it is because while we are hiding in plain sight, the majority of the facility is in “The Shadowlands”.

He showed a layout of the facility that loaded up on a holovid.

We do teach advanced level courses for Jedi, mainly “archtype” specific courses, like for “Shadows” but that is coincidental.

Anyway... Opening the door and walking in, then stopping halfway through to let the Padawan make his way in before shutting it behind them. Welcome to be the first Jedi besides me into this… the armory..

Inside, the entire “room” was full of an array of weapons, and weapons parts. Were they inert? Were they active? Only the Master knows.

So tell me. What brings you to the Shadow Temple? No need for platitudes of serious details. What made me want to show you this very room?

It may sound like a complicated question, but it wasn’t meant to be.

​

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Caltin Vanagor

Welcome to the Shadow Temple. Feel free and ask “the question” when you are ready.
Every first question I have gotten, every single one, has been “Why is it called ‘The Shadow Temple’?” It’s really nothing “world shattering”, it is because while we are hiding in plain sight, the majority of the facility is in “The Shadowlands”.
We do teach advanced level courses for Jedi, mainly “archtype” specific courses, like for “Shadows” but that is coincidental.
Anyway... Welcome to be the first Jedi besides me into this… the armory..
So tell me. What brings you to the Shadow Temple? No need for platitudes of serious details. What made me want to show you this very room?

Braze was about to ask why he had been brought here, but before he could speak, the man continued, answering questions that had lingered in his mind. He glanced at what was shown to him, then looked up at the man, unfamiliar with Caltin but following where he was guided. He had fallen mostly silent, offering only a brief greeting when they had first met.

Perking up, Braze looked around the room, taking in the sights, somewhat surprised by the revelation that he was one of the first to see this place. He turned his attention back to Caltin and mulled over the final question.

"I'm on sabbatical," Braze began lightly, "to learn from different Jedi groups, cultures, temples—everything, really—to gain a broader understanding of the Jedi across the galaxy." He paused, considering. "I'm not entirely sure why you've asked me here, but if I had to guess, it might have something to do with my focus."

His hand drifted to his intricately decorated Padawan braid, his thumb tracing the golden bead nestled within—a symbol of his dedication to lightsaber combat.

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Shadow Temple | OBJECTIVE: Meeting, Teaching, whatever works | POST #: 1
TAG (ALLIES) : Braze
TAG (FOES) : @​

Caltin nodded at Braze’ response to his own question. He also noticed the braid. The big man never really understood the meaning behind them, but the look made a lot of sense. Never really had the chance to grow my own braid when I was a Padawan, I was scalped by a Hutt gang…

A graphic memory to say the least and truth be told, he’s not sure why he told it, even with the Padawan’s garnished hair notwithstanding. It is what it is. Reaching out and pulling a saberstaff to his hand, he offered it to the Hybrid Echani/Atrisian/Thyrisian to inspect. You are young, but I already see a true “Guardian” in you. You carry yourself as such. Even now.

Moving more out to the open area and making sure that there was some space between them, he pulled a unique looking hilt to his hand and activated a “pink” “Light-whip” “whipping” it a couple of times before letting the “sling” fall to the floor, crackling on phrik panels before deactivating it. As cool as this thing is, I hate whips…

Offering it for the Padawan to look at as well, he asked his next question.

Anyway... He looked around the armory I’ve asked you here because I wanted you to have the opportunity to make a more informed decision on your future. You have time, plenty of time, don’t get me wrong. Too many Padawans these days are thrust into open war, take these moments to enjoy your education and take advantage of it… that is actually a big part of this place as a whole. To give that chance that others had not in the past. A half smile, almost one of pride crept on his face as he looked around.

That is not a negative reflection on anyone. This entire Temple is an idea that I have had in my head since I was Knighted so long ago, and didn’t know what I wanted to do. I started out intent on being an investigator… but a few months in… I proved to be terrible.. He laughed openly. So tell me what you were thinking about. You’re obviously dedicated to the lightsaber. So… Peacekeeper? Instructor? Battlemaster? Exotic Weapons?

Nothing more than personal curiosity out of the question. The big man always enjoyed helping “the younger generation” find their true path.

​

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Caltin Vanagor

Braze grimaced at the story, not liking the horrific idea it presented. He watched as he was handed a staff, inspecting it curiously. A flinch escaped him when the pink light-whip crackled to life. He stayed mostly quiet as he listened, thoughts drifting. A Jedi Investigator? That's what Ko Vuto wanted to do, wasn't it?

Shaking his head, Braze tentatively accepted the next weapon offered to him, turning it over in his hands. "No? They seem pretty intimidating. I made one, but I haven't found anyone versed in it to learn from," he admitted, inspecting the whip closely.

"I was thinking about becoming a battlemaster, but... I'm not so sure anymore. Maybe a weapons master would suit me better?" His uncertainty lingered in the air, as if he wasn't fully convinced yet.

​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Shadow Temple | OBJECTIVE: Meeting, Teaching, whatever works | POST #: 3
TAG (ALLIES) : Braze
TAG (FOES) : @​

I could teach you the basics if you wish… we have a few “trainers” here for that very thing. He shrugged. I’m not the best with them, but like I said, I don't really like them.

Then he noticed the uncertainty, the shift in confidence in Braze and quirked an eyebrow. Maybe the Padawan did not fully understand what a Battlemaster was? Why not?

Pulling out a couple of seats as he took on and sat down. He looked at the young student, Braze knew what he wanted, that needed to be fostered. You can be a Weapons Master, and a Battlemaster. You know that, right?

Clasping his hands together, he looked down for a moment and then back.

Being a “Battlemaster”... it’s a position of “honor” and of “respect.” I am the Battlemaster for the Enclave on Jakku, and until I find a suitable replacement, here as well. It is a position appointed by the Jedi Council and the one who receives it is the premier lightsaber combat instructor. He nodded. Caltin did not want to make the position look “weak” or “diminish” it at all, it means something to even be considered, but he wanted to be honest.

Don’t give up on that, even if it takes decades. If it means something to you. Chase that goal. Don’t let it consume you, but don’t give up. A concerted confident nod and a smile was next.

You’re Master @Jasper Kai'el’s Padawan, right? He nodded, pretty sure that he knew the assumption was correct. He’s good about that. I’d be willing to teach you as well if you wish, to help you along. The only items not in this armory are crystals…

It was the kid’s decision if he wanted to learn from the big man or not, but at least he now knew that the option was there.

​

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Caltin Vanagor

Braze perked up, listening to the man with rapt attention, carefully moving to return the weapons to their places. He handled them with care and reverence, ensuring each one was back where it belonged.

"I don't feel like I'd be fitting for the role of Battlemaster. I don't mesh well with people. I'm not great at understanding how to talk to others. I mess things up a lot, and I'm not sure how to stop doing that. It feels silly saying it out loud, like maybe I'm not making sense. But… every time I try to reach out or connect with people, it just falls apart somehow, and I don't even know why."

Braze paused, his expression thoughtful but troubled. "Communication and people skills are so important for a role like that," he admitted. "I just don't think I meet that requirement, and I have no idea how to fix it."

Braze walked over and took a seat, crossing his arms over his chest as he slumped down. An anxious pang of sadness washed over him as his nerves crept in. He was speaking earnestly, something he rarely did, especially with people he was close to. Opening up about his insecurities like this was new and difficult for him.

"Yes, Jasper Kai'el is my Master. That's very kind of you sir, I'm just not sure how to fix my problem. I know it's there I just don't understand how. "

​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Shadow Temple | OBJECTIVE: Meeting, Teaching, whatever works | POST #: 4
TAG (ALLIES) : Braze
TAG (FOES) : @​

A bit of a sardonic smile crept across his face. The kid was absolutely no different than others his age in this regard. Here’s a little secret that I had to learn on my own. He cracked his neck. Being able to speak to others, to converse and understand, it’s not a gift you are blessed with. Okay that’s not entirely true, in some sentient’s case it is but more often than not, it is a skill that is earned.

Nodding as he sat back, letting the words sink in. It’s a big part of why I wanted to be an Investigator. I thought that by not being able to easily talk to people, I could use that in my investigation… you know the “strong, silent type”?

He shrugged, and then with a laugh, he looked on and spoke some more. Now I don’t shut up.

Meeting the Padawan’s gaze, he let his words sink in another moment.

I’m not saying that it is easy to talk to others, to understand them. I get it, more than you realize. He nodded. It does come with time though. The best part about it is, you control your pace. How fast, or slow you try to progress is entirely up to you.

Getting up and walking over, putting the whip back, and pressing a button on a panel that opened up, a dual bladed long handle saber came out, hanging off of a hook. It took me building Vanguard here to understand that. A Shi’ido Sith I had faced had stolen my lightsaber, and presented it to his Master. That’s a story for another time though, anyway, I was building this as a temporary replacement when a Padawan asked me what I was doing. He was interested, so I showed him. Then I had shown another. I taught my first Padawan how to build his lightsaber when a couple of others had watched, and I ended up teaching a saber class of three, then four, and so on. He laughed hard at the memory, his eyes on the weapon as he offered it to the Echani Hybrid.

Try it out if you like.

Taking his seat back, he watched. If there was one failing I see in you right now, is that you fail to give yourself some credit. You already know what you want. You are on the path to getting there. That’s more than a lot of Padawans, past and present at your age, you’re what? 16? Even some young Knights aren’t there yet.

He shrugged. It’s why this place exists.

​

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Caltin Vanagor

A lot of what Master Caltin Vanagor said was similar to a pep talk he'd heard from Jasper Kai'el . Braze struggled to see himself in such a positive light at that moment, and a frown tugged at his lips. He had encountered difficulties with someone he wanted to teach, but perhaps that was the issue—maybe he was offering 'assistance' where it wasn't needed. Did Zaiya Ceti appreciate what he had to teach her? He felt uncertain. Perhaps he just needed to provide his insights to those who genuinely wanted it and asked for it first.

"I think I understand," he offered in a meek tone. "So… you like to make weapons?" Braze asked tentatively, extending his datapad with designs for a special Krysteel weapon he intended to create.

​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Shadow Temple | OBJECTIVE: Meeting, Teaching, whatever works | POST #: 6
TAG (ALLIES) : Braze
TAG (FOES) : @​

Truth is, he didn’t buy it when Braze had responded with understanding of what he was saying. He had no doubt that the Padawan comprehended all of it, but whether it resonated with him or not remained to be seen. That was a path that Braze must follow though, the door was opened for him but only he could walk through it. I like helping, sure.

He wasn’t sure that any Jedi truly liked making weapons, but they were a necessary truth to their lives. Let us see what you have here.

Looking over the specs with a “wow” whistle, he studied it for a few moments.

I can’t say that I am personally much for standard swords, but I like what I see. He nodded. What can I do to help? If anything? Want to check here for some supplies? He said, gesturing to the armory itself.

​

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Caltin Vanagor

The Voice of the Wind​

Braze stood quietly for a moment, his gaze shifting over the array of rare metals, intricate designs, and polished components he'd spent almost two years collecting that was listen on the screen... Each piece was expensive, rare, and purposeful. It would certainly be a pricy weapon when finished, and he couldn't help but wonder about the implications. Would a Jedi, someone who stood for humility and simplicity, even want to wield something so expensive? So ornate?

Braze's mind wandered further. What if it attracted all the wrong kinds of attention? A weapon like this could easily draw greedy eyes—people willing to steal or worse. Perhaps that was the point. Maybe luring out those who craved wealth and power was part of its allure, an unspoken test. There would certainly be discourse. What if the weapon were sold at auction? How many economies, orphanages, or people in need could benefit from its price? It was a thought that lingered, tugging at his conscience.

Still, creating it felt... right. He loved making things. All kinds of things, but especially beautiful things, things that could be admired. What he didn't talk about—what he kept as a secret shame—were the small figurines he often crafted in private. Statuettes of his fantasy heroes, or idealized versions of the people in his life. His creativity manifested in ways that he kept hidden from others, but this... this project was different. It was no quiet indulgence; it was something to be shared and seen, something to be used.

He let out a breath before finally speaking. "I've been gathering most of the materials for this over the course of nearly two years now," he began, his voice steady as his eyes moved over the pieces one last time. "But the metal—it needs to be forged in a special way. I found an old book that goes into detail about the process, and I think I can do it. But..." Braze paused, his hands fidgeting slightly before he looked up. There was a touch of vulnerability in his expression, a rare moment of asking for help. "I could really use a second pair of eyes and hands for assistance. Would you be willing to help me build it, Sir?"

​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Shadow Temple | OBJECTIVE: Meeting, Teaching, whatever works | POST #: 6
TAG (ALLIES) : Braze
TAG (FOES) : @​

Impressive. It was really the only response he could give when Braze explained about the journey he took, collecting the materials. This was a “labor of love” in a manner of speaking. Sure, there was the thought of it being so ornate, would it be necessary, but that was a double edged sword. It was often the wielder who made the weapon valuable as well. He remembered the time that a Shi’ido Sith Assassin had managed to steal “Conservator” , his long handle lightsaber that had been as much a symbol of him as it was an extension of who he was.

He had taken great pride in crafting the weapon, and it pained him to think that someone else had gained such an advantage from it. He vowed to never let that happen again, so he made sure to create weapons that were not only functional but also personally meaningful.

It was also somewhat of a “badge of honor” that the Assassin had brought it before his masters and it was a revered, prized item as if he had dragged the big man’s carcass to the hall himself. The young man before him had a lot to learn, but having spent two years collecting these materials said something, and what else, the adornments on his braid said even more.

The Padawan’s explanation was simple, and straight forward, it made sense. After all, some of these materials would take a lot of attention. He was ready to offer his help before the young man even thought to ask, even brought it up. There was something else to happen though that was necessary.

Braze had to allow himself to ask.

No, this was not a plan on the big man’s part. No arrogance of making him ask or anything like that, Caltin is big on the “old ways” but he’s not the jerk that some people think him to be. It's big when an older Padawan, close to being Knighted, showed some level of vulnerability. It’s a necessary part of growth, and natural as generally an older Padawan is growing in confidence in themselves and their abilities, this is often when they are the most vulnerable to dark side manipulation. They are so “ready” to go out in the galaxy and make their mark that they will listen to any dissenting remarks.

This kid is going to be one to watch.

He humbled himself, openly, without being forced in any way, and asked for help. Realizing that there was no shame in asking, ever.

I would be honored to help any way that you need me to.

​

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Caltin Vanagor

Braze's smile brightened at the suggestion. "Alright, I'll gather everything up and bring my notes and materials to you. We can work on the blade together," he assured, his excitement evident. "Thank you, Sir. I really appreciate the offer to help." He added, "We'll need to 'make' a forge powered by kyber, but it shouldn't be too difficult to build—I already have most of the components ready. Just tell me where you'd like me to set up, and we can get to work."

​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Shadow Temple | OBJECTIVE: Meeting, Teaching, whatever works | POST #: 7
TAG (ALLIES) : Braze
TAG (FOES) : @​

The smile on Braze’s face reminded Caltin of why he started this Temple, started teaching again, and started all of this. He liked seeing the look of others when they were “getting it” or able to reach their goals. One rule. I get why you are doing it, but you don’t have to call me “sir”. It was really the only thing that he could say on the matter. Yes, the big man was “stuck in many of the old ways” but he also was more about relationships now. It still felt weird… but…

I’ll thank you for calling me by my title when we are around others. However, if we are going to work together. Please do simply call me “Caltin”. He didn’t mean it that way, but his tone probably made those words come off like he was granting some kind of status.

Follow me.

Getting up, he led the Padawan out of the armory and towards the sparring arena. There were several “arenas” and “dojos”. I’ll be teaching a big “Broken Gate” Class here soon, if you want to sign up, you’re more than welcome to. The quip was merely to pass the time and make small talk until they reached a doorway that was shut and locked. The panel opened to which he put his hand on, the computer recognized his print and the door opened. It was his private “training room”, two training droids here, and the walls were lined with weapons and devices he had collected over the years.

The room was big, and the center was wide open.

Will this work?

​

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Caltin Vanagor

"Alright, Caltin it is," he said with a grin. As they walked, he absorbed the sight of the sparring arenas and dojos, imagining what kind of training he'd be able to take on here.

The mention of the 'Broken Gate' class caught his attention. "Broken Gate, huh?" He glanced over at Caltin, intrigued. "I might just take you up on that. Always looking to push myself; It's a Form I have the basics in and would consider myself a novice. I've dabbled in Echani Martial Arts, Teräs Käsi, Broken Gate, Bakuuni Hand, and Matukai. Just show me where to sign up and consider me there. " He paused, eyeing the rows of weaponry and training droids around them as they stepped into the private training room. It was like a treasure trove of knowledge.

Turning back to Caltin, he nodded. "This will more than work. Thanks for taking the time with me—means a lot."

​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Shadow Temple | OBJECTIVE: Meeting, Teaching, whatever works | POST #: 8
TAG (ALLIES) : Braze
TAG (FOES) : @​

I’ll get you signed up, don’t worry.. He didn’t talk about what he was proficient in, it was all recorded, and frankly, he barely used much of it anyway. It was more to learn the mindset of potential opponents.

It’s going to be fun. I haven’t taught a large class in awhile. He did mean that, for a long time, the big man had felt sought out only for what he could teach. Yes, that was much the purpose of those in the position of “Master”, but too many of the “younger generation” were being thrust into combat, into open war. It was the Clone Wars all over again.

That was a conversation for another time though.

Truth is, Vanagor had forgotten the sense of satisfaction he had gotten from teaching.

Clearly this room was going to work, just on the look that the kid was giving and when he looked back, the big man could only answer. Glad to help.

Droids! Core Program alteration seven gamma two, authorization Vanagor Alpha One Three. Speaking into the air, Caltin’s attention turned to the droids lining the walls. Each of them simultaneously responded audibly.

“Voice command recognized. Programming updated.” As each of them moved towards the center of the room, he smiled. These guys will help moved everything in here.

​

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Caltin Vanagor

"Thank you, Caltin, sir," Braze chirped, quickly assisting with the setup.

Once everything was gathered and prepared, Braze began explaining the steps needed to forge-weld the materials together. He showed Caltin diagrams and examples from the old writings he'd uncovered, laying out an extensive collection of information he'd gathered on forging processes and the materials they might need. He occasionally sought the man's advice, engaging him in the finer points of the work.

Soon enough, the project was underway. Even with the remarkable technology at their disposal, the task would require several days to complete.

​