Dev Ashes of the Past

[Ben Watts]

Ben’s hand shook as the transport ship began its descent through Coruscant’s dense layers of atmosphere, the sprawling city-planet gradually coming into sharper focus below him. The last time he had set foot here, he had been the Grandmaster of the Jedi Order, a beacon of hope and strength, held in awe by countless beings across the galaxy. Wherever he went, people knew him; children waved, adults greeted him with pride, and dignitaries watched him with respect. He had always greeted them with a smile, concealing the doubts and pressures that came with his position. Now, as he sat incognito among travelers who were simply returning home, none recognized him, and he wasn’t sure if that anonymity felt like relief or a subtle sting.

Ben shifted in his seat, tugging the worn tan robe closer around his face. It was a habit he hadn’t shaken even though his appearance had changed enough that no one would recognize him. His once smooth face and dark black hair was now hidden beneath a coarse gray beard, his hair grown long and unkempt. His skin was marked with lines of age and years under the harsh, unforgiving suns of Jakku. This was the face of a man who had endured not only years in exile but also the relentless self-reflection that came with it.

In the row opposite, a man caught Ben’s gaze for a split second before looking away, wary of the strange, robed elder who had spoken to no one since boarding. Ben gave a polite nod, accustomed now to being misunderstood or mistaken for someone of little consequence. It was a stark contrast to the days when people avoided his gaze out of respect rather than indifference.

As he looked out the transport window, his eyes found the Jedi Temple rising in the distance. A sharp pang of memory cut through him, vivid and raw, and he could almost smell the acrid smoke from that terrible day when he had last left. The building had been ablaze, symbolizing not just the loss of physical structure but the failure he believed he bore. He had once led the Jedi, championed their purpose, and fought fiercely for the Galactic Republic. And then, in one devastating attack, everything had crumbled. He had lost friends, comrades, and promising Padawans all because he had failed to see the danger. He had been blind, arrogant, so sure that his way was the right way.

How could I have been so foolish? he thought, a bitter taste rising in his mouth.

His mind turned to the Jedi Masters who had preceded him -greats like Tefari and Darron Wraith—whose wisdom and sacrifice had cast shadows so large he had once felt honored just to stand within them. But he had dismissed those shadows in his youth, eager to prove himself, to shine even brighter. As he thought back on those days, he recognized that he had, in truth, been driven by a desire for adulation, cloaked in the guise of humility and duty. That realization was his curse, the self-inflicted wound he had nursed for years on Jakku, where only the vast emptiness of the desert had heard his silent admissions of guilt.

You must not let these thoughts seep in. He told himself, his left hand reaching out to steady the shake in his right. It was a tremor that had worsened with age, but he felt it more keenly when his mind strayed into dark memories. He closed his eyes briefly, breathing deeply, centering himself as he had taught so many others to do before. He could not allow himself to fall into that pit of self-blame now. He was here because he had finally made a choice: to stop wallowing in past failures and begin making amends, however he could.

The transport touched down, and Ben waited his turn to disembark. There was no fanfare for him, no crowds or Jedi Council members waiting to debrief him on the latest developments, eager for his insight. The last time he had walked on Coruscant, it had been in the middle of a heated debate among the Jedi leadership. He had believed, arrogantly that the Jedi deserved a say in the Republic's future direction, even pushing for them to have more influence. After all, he had argued, who had been the Republic’s strongest arm if not the Jedi? Wasn’t it Ben Watts himself who had destroyed Omni and defended so many of their worlds? In retrospect, he realized that what he had considered wisdom and leadership had been little more than a masked desire for control.

Walking through the busy terminals of Coruscant, he drew the hood of his robe lower, trying to block out the noise and bright lights. The closer he came to the Jedi Temple, the heavier his steps felt, as though the weight of his memories tried to root him to the ground. But he pressed on, feeling his purpose rekindle with each step.

As the familiar stonework of the Temple came into view, he paused, breathing in its presence, letting it fill him with the calm he had once drawn from this sacred place. This was where he belonged, even if he had to prove it to himself all over again. The temple, once aflame in his nightmares, now stood whole, vibrant, and alive with the energy of new Jedi who had not known the darkness that had cast him out.

He vowed to let go of the shame that had plagued him for so long. He had returned to make peace with his past, not to deny it, and to redeem himself, even if only in his own eyes. His hands steadied as he took the final steps toward the Temple. This was his first step toward atonement, and he embraced the sense of belonging that settled over him.

The Jedi, once Grandmaster Ben Watts, had returned. Not for power or recognition but for redemption and for the hope that he might find peace within himself once more.

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

As the sun began to dip behind Coruscant's towering spires, casting long shadows across the Jedi Temple's familiar stone steps, Valery Noble stood near the entrance, her amber eyes scanning the bustling courtyard. She often took a few moments at dusk to reflect, to ground herself amidst the constant demands of leadership. But tonight, something unusual tugged at her awareness, a presence almost familiar, yet still foreign.

She felt it before she saw him — a Force signature that held a depth of experience and weight of memory that only someone who had lived through great trials could possess. Turning her gaze, she finally saw the figure making his way up the steps, his hood drawn low, obscuring most of his face. His robe was worn, draped around him in a way that suggested humility, almost as if he sought to hide within its folds. But despite the attempt to blend in, the man's presence was undeniable.

The closer he drew, the more details became apparent — the coarse, gray beard framing a face marked by the lines of age and weathering. His eyes, shadowed beneath his hood, were intense yet weary, carrying the weight of history and regret. There was a strength in him, though, tempered and sharpened by solitude and silence.

Valery stepped forward, a gentle but welcoming smile on her lips. She could feel his tension, the internal battle playing out behind those solemn eyes, "Greetings," she said softly, her voice a calm and steady presence in the cool evening air.

"Welcome to the Jedi Temple."

Ben Watts ​

 

[Ben Watts]

Ben felt her presence approach before he saw her, a Force signature that resonated with such immense power he couldn’t ignore it, even with his senses dulled by years of disuse. In his prime, he could have identified her aura’s subtleties, maybe even sensed her unique characteristics. Now, though, his abilities were rusty, clouded by time and isolation. Yet, despite this dimming of his powers, the strength radiating from her was unmistakable—she was young, far younger than him, yet her power exceeded what he himself had once held at her age. She looked youthful, but Ben could sense an intensity beneath that exterior, an experience far beyond her years.

Straightening, he felt the old habit of deference come back as he greeted her with a bow. He pulled back his hood, letting the sun illuminate the weathered face beneath. The act felt like peeling back a layer of armor he’d clung to out of habit, a small gesture of respect, an admission of who he had become. Standing in the familiar yet strange surroundings of the Jedi Temple, he felt a pang of nostalgia mixed with sorrow. The place felt like home and yet also alien, as if he were visiting an old house that now belonged to someone else.

"Hello," he said softly, the words almost a whisper in the quiet of the Temple grounds. His voice carried a mixture of reverence and uncertainty, and he dipped his head slightly as he continued, “It feels... strange to be back.” His gaze swept across the Temple, drinking in the details, each corner carrying a memory. Yet the place had changed in his absence, evolved into something he no longer fully recognized. It was both a sanctuary and a reminder of everything he had lost.

"I must admit that I'm quite ashamed to stand before you as I do now," he continued, his voice lowering as he glanced down at his faded, worn robes. There was a time when he had been meticulous about his appearance, every stitch and ornament an unspoken symbol of strength and assurance. He’d dressed not only for himself but for those around him, creating an image of stability. The humility of his current clothing was almost jarring in contrast. "But I do hope you'll forgive an old man for not dressing appropriately. My name is Ben Watts, and I have returned to serve the Jedi in my final days."

He hesitated, feeling the familiar prick of pride trying to surface, a remnant of his old self that clung on despite everything. "If you would have need of me, that is." He added the words quickly, a reminder to himself not to assume, not to fall into the trap of believing he was expected or desired. The Jedi had moved on; he was likely little more than a memory, a relic in their eyes.

Still, as he stood there, his humility tempered with a flicker of resolve, he felt that faint spark of purpose reawaken within him. He was here not to reclaim past glories but to find a way forward, to offer whatever was left of his wisdom and strength. And for the first time in many years, Ben allowed himself to feel the weight of his own redemption resting on his shoulders, determined to carry it one step at a time.

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's gaze softened as she listened to Ben, catching the quiet reverence in his tone as he took in the Temple around them. She could see the weight he carried, etched into the lines of his face and the humbled set of his shoulders. The humility he projected was genuine, earned through experiences that few could fully understand. It had an attractive element to it that she appreciated. And though he seemed burdened by his past, there was something else too — a flicker of purpose, a determination to reclaim some semblance of peace.

When he finally introduced himself, Valery dipped her head respectfully, recognizing the name instantly. Ben Watts. She had studied the lives of many Jedi who came before her, and his story, his contributions, were certainly among them, even if he saw himself differently now. She let his words linger in the air between them for a moment, allowing him to feel the Temple's presence enveloping him in a familiar calm before she replied.

"Ben Watts," she repeated, her voice warm and steady. "It is an honor to welcome you back, truly." She offered him a small, understanding smile. "We have all faced times that reshaped us, sometimes painfully so, but it's the will to return, to continue that journey, that defines the strength of a Jedi. You're here now, and that is what matters."

She glanced around, her gaze moving over the courtyard and the Temple that stood resilient, even after all it had seen. "The Temple is different, I know, but its purpose hasn't changed. It's still a place of learning, peace, and renewal. And if you're willing to share your wisdom, your experiences, I believe you can guide many young Jedi who are searching for a path forward."

She paused and smiled, "Would you walk with me? I'd love to welcome you back and discuss how you feel you might contribute the most."

Ben Watts ​

 

[Ben Watts]

Her gentle, accepting demeanor made Ben feel a profound sense of ease he hadn’t expected. She didn’t question him about his departure, didn’t demand answers for his years of absence or berate him for abandoning the Jedi. He had anticipated this moment countless times, imagining the crushing weight of shame, the stinging rejection, perhaps even being barred from rejoining. But she offered none of that; instead, she welcomed him with a calmness that suggested he had always been welcome, as if the Jedi had kept a place for him all along, as though his mistakes were already forgiven.

"No, the honor is mine, truly," he replied, feeling a warmth that had been absent for so long. He offered her the one thing that had stayed unchanged over the years—a warm, genuine smile. "You speak wisely. Where have you been all these years to put my mind at ease?" His tone was light, a touch of humor softening the gratitude he felt. Her willingness to overlook his past and instead focus on the present and future stirred something in him, a reminder of the idealism that had first led him to the Jedi.

Her offer to walk with him and discuss his future felt like an unexpected blessing. "I would very much like that," he said, smiling again, unsure of what his future with the Jedi would hold but comforted by the thought that it didn’t need to be decided right now. He hadn’t thought beyond returning, hadn’t considered what his place might be within the Order. If they asked him to sweep floors, he would do it willingly. As they started to walk together, he glanced over, a note of curiosity in his voice. "You know who I am, but I did not catch your name?"

As they strolled through the Temple’s hallowed grounds, Ben found himself drinking in the surroundings, each step tugging at memories that felt distant yet achingly familiar. "It's funny," he said, his voice laced with quiet wonder. "This place feels so different and yet the same. I cannot help but feel welcome and unwelcome all at once. As if I both belong and don’t." He looked ahead, his brow furrowed slightly as he absorbed the dichotomy of those feelings. This place had once been his home, and yet it felt as if he were visiting as a guest.

Then, almost without thinking, he asked the question that had haunted him for years, the one he’d turned over in his mind countless times in his isolation. "Tell me, what challenges do the Jedi face these days?" His tone was casual, but there was a deep-seated urgency behind the question. He had to know if the Jedi were thriving, if they were safe, if they continued to serve as the defenders of peace. His heart yearned to believe that the Order had persevered in his absence, that they had carried on despite his failings. He needed assurance that the legacy he had once been part of was in strong, capable hands.

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

As they walked through the Temple's quiet halls, Valery's long, dark hair cascaded loosely over her shoulders, catching the gentle glow of the Temple lights with each subtle sway. The waves framed her face and softened her intense amber gaze, creating a striking contrast between her composed presence and the warmth radiating in her expression. When she turned to look at him, a few strands brushed her cheek, and she tucked them back with a graceful hand before meeting his gaze directly.

"My name is Valery Noble," she said softly, her voice carrying a warmth that mirrored the calm strength she radiated. "I'm honored to lead the Order now, as Grandmaster." Her lips curved into a gentle smile, a touch of amusement glimmering in her eyes as if to acknowledge the long journey she, too, had traveled to stand here. Her presence seemed both grounded and effortlessly poised, her elegance belying the fierceness she carried within.

As they moved deeper into the Temple, the light from above reflected faintly in her hair, creating an almost ethereal effect that softened the sharp angles of the surrounding stonework. Her expression grew thoughtful as he asked about the challenges the Jedi faced today, and she tilted her head slightly, her gaze distant for a moment before it returned to him with quiet intensity.

"The Jedi face many trials," she began, her tone steady but carrying a hint of resolve. "The Sith Order has reemerged, pressing against our borders with a focused and unrelenting strength. They seek power, claiming territory and seeking weaknesses among our allies." She paused, allowing her gaze to hold his, conveying the gravity of the threat. "And along another part of our borders, the Dark Empire rises, a presence that shadows the Core and makes even our own strongholds vulnerable."

They had successfully defended Coruscant against them, but the war was far from over.

A slight breeze seemed to move through the hall, stirring a few loose strands of her hair as she continued. "And then there are the Mandalorian Crusaders — fierce warriors with their own ancient codes, who have recently taken up arms and are becoming a significant force once again. Our resources are stretched thin, and at times, it feels like we're surrounded on all sides."

Yet, despite the weight of her words, there was an unmistakable light in her gaze as she spoke. "But even with so many challenges, I believe in the strength of the Jedi. And now, with you here, it feels like we've gained ourselves a new ally we can draw strength from." Her expression softened, her admiration clear. "Your experience and wisdom will make a difference. Especially for the young."

Ben Watts ​

 

[Ben Watts]

As they walked through the temple grounds, Ben found himself reflecting on the journey that had brought him here, drawn into memories of his own youth. He observed the way she carried herself—the quiet confidence, the purposeful stride, an aura of strength that he recognized well. She reminded him of the Jedi he had once been, a man who had believed wholeheartedly in his purpose, who had worn his rank with an almost regal air. There was a time he’d walked with that same dignity, alongside older, wiser Jedi, absorbing every lesson. In her, he saw glimpses of himself and, unexpectedly, of his former mentor Tefari. How strange it felt now to see himself in the position Tefari had once held, to walk beside this young Grandmaster as an elder, a man from a different time.

Despite the gray in his hair and the deep lines etched into his face, Ben carried himself with a surprising vigor. The Force still flowed through him, strengthening each step. And though he made no effort to match her pace, he kept stride with her easily, a reminder that his age, while visible, was hardly a limitation. His appearance, he knew, could be deceiving to those who might only see the surface.

When she introduced herself as Grandmaster, Ben’s heart lifted with a sense of clarity and pride. Of course—why hadn’t he realized it? She carried herself with such power and grace; it was as if she were a mirror to the image he had so long sought but had been unable to reach. She was the leader who had risen to protect the Jedi, the one who had carried forward the mantle he had abandoned.

Ben couldn’t contain his admiration as he looked upon her, eyes shining, a smile that was wide and unrestrained spreading across his face. She was young, yes, but hadn’t they once said the same of him? Age was a trivial matter; it was drive, wisdom, and conviction that shaped a leader, and he could see all those qualities shining within her. In his brief time with her, he knew she was more than a worthy successor—she was precisely the leader the Jedi needed.

“It is an immense pleasure to meet you and walk with you, Grandmaster." he said, the title imbued with reverence and respect. She had earned it, and he would honor her position wholeheartedly.

As she spoke of the challenges facing the Jedi, he fell into a familiar rhythm of listening, his hands clasped behind his back. Her words carried weight, each one deepening his understanding of what the Order had endured and what it continued to face. The Sith remained a lingering threat, as they always had. He thought back to his days in council meetings, the hours he had spent debating the possibility of coexistence with the Sith.

“The Sith never can be completely eradicated, can they?” he murmured, echoing an old conversation he had had many times before. “If only we could find a common ground. The galaxy would be better off for it.” But he held himself back, realizing how his own views had shifted. There was a time he had thought an alliance, however tenuous, might bring peace, though he knew well that most Jedi considered it a foolish notion. He had wanted so badly to believe it might work, but he knew now it had been little more than a hope.

He raised an eyebrow at her mention of the Dark Empire, unfamiliar with the name. “The Dark Empire? Sith copycats, or did infighting break them apart?” He mused aloud, recalling how the Sith’s own strengths often turned inward, tearing them apart as easily as they tore apart the galaxy.

When she mentioned the Mandalorians, Ben’s gaze softened with a memory. “I have respect for the Mandalorians,” he said, recalling a time on Zeltros when he and a small, scrappy companion named Racket had faced down an entire Mandalorian battalion. He’d earned a reputation that day, one that carried with it both fear and respect among the Mandalorians. “They do only what they believe is right by them. I will not fault a culture that has suffered as much as they have for trying to reclaim what they believe is theirs.” It was another of his once-controversial opinions, yet one that remained unchanged, rooted in his understanding of the galaxy’s complexity.

The two came to an overlook that provided a sweeping view of Coruscant, bustling and bright in the distance. Below them, Padawans trained, their eager shouts and laughter rising faintly to where he stood. Ben stepped to the balcony’s edge, resting his hands on the railing as he closed his eyes, drawing a deep breath. He let himself absorb it all, the life and energy of this place he had once called home. The hope, the renewal. "We share the same belief in the Jedi," he said finally, his voice firm with conviction. "The Jedi are the beacon of hope for the galaxy, and even though we will always face challenges, we can overcome them."

He turned, looking at her with pride that gleamed in his eyes, a pride that felt almost paternal. She was not his daughter, but he felt the same protective, appreciative warmth. “My presence here is nothing noteworthy. It is you who makes all the difference. Thank you for all that you have done and all that you will do.” He bowed, a gesture of utmost respect, and this time, he did not stop himself from going lower, sinking to his knees.

“I know not what I can do for the Jedi,” he said, his voice steady and sincere, “but I pledge my service to you until my dying breath.”

In that moment, he felt something within him release, a weight he hadn’t known he’d carried lifting from his shoulders. He had come here seeking redemption, yet he found himself offering loyalty, strength, and wisdom without expectation, for a cause he had never stopped believing in. This was not the return he had imagined—it was something far more profound, a new beginning shaped by humility, respect, and an enduring love for the Jedi.

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery watched Ben intently as he spoke, her expression open yet thoughtful. His words about finding common ground with the Sith held a familiarity she understood well, though a glint in her amber eyes hinted at her hardened resolve, "I don't believe there's a place for peace with the Sith. Their existence, by its very nature, is a constant threat to balance. I've tried to see if there could be a way to coexist, but their vision and methods always lead to darkness and suffering. For as long as they exist, we will be at odds." Her voice softened further as she looked out over the Temple grounds, where Padawans trained below them, each step they took along the path of light a testament to the Jedi's enduring struggle.

He had lived through much, she could see that in the lines on his face and the weariness that occasionally clouded his eyes, yet he carried a profound resilience that stirred her admiration. She found herself meeting his gaze again as he asked about the Dark Empire, her lips pressing into a faint smile. "The Dark Empire is another story — not truly Sith in nature but aligned with their beliefs. It's a group mostly composed of Imperials, with some Sith remnants from an evil we faced in the past. They hold their own twisted sense of order and strength, different from the Sith but no less dangerous. They've become a force in parts of the galaxy, not to mention a constant threat here in the Core." She exhaled, her expression grim yet resolute, before a small smile broke through.

His comments on the Mandalorians softened her expression as well. She respected the Mandalorians, despite the complex history between their people and the Jedi, and his words showed her he understood that balance as well. "Yes, they follow their own code," she agreed, nodding. "They do what they believe is right, and that kind of conviction is rare."

They walked in quiet understanding until they reached an overlook that provided a breathtaking view of Coruscant's cityscape below, stretching endlessly in every direction, the lights flickering in the twilight like stars fallen to earth. Valery rested her hands on the cool railing, her dark hair cascading around her shoulders as the gentle evening breeze stirred it, a soft wave of warmth in the fading daylight. She felt his presence beside her, his own sense of quiet reflection blending into the powerful, calm energy surrounding them. Despite the years between them, she felt a connection to him — a shared understanding and commitment to the Jedi that transcended time.

When Ben spoke again, his voice held a depth that seemed to touch something within her. She turned her gaze to him, and the profound sincerity in his words drew her in completely. She could feel his pride, his quiet admiration, and it left a warmth in her chest that surprised her. He was not a stranger to the ideals she fought for; rather, he seemed like someone who could see the weight of the path she walked.

But when he knelt before her, pledging his loyalty, the sight took her aback, her breath catching for a moment. His humility and reverence moved her deeply, and for a few heartbeats, she was silent, her gaze softening as she took in the man who had once led the Jedi himself, now standing, or rather kneeling, with such grace and strength before her.

A small, tender smile touched her lips as she reached out, resting a gentle hand on his shoulder. I am honored by your pledge, truly," she said, her voice warm, almost carrying an unspoken depth of gratitude. "But you need not kneel for me. You've already done so much for the Jedi. Your wisdom, your strength — they're gifts, not just to the Order but to all who walk this path." Her fingers lingered on his shoulder for a moment longer than necessary before she stepped back, inviting him to rise.

"That said, I accept your offer." Her smile grew warmer as her upper body dipped into a bow, "Rise, and let's continue forward as equals, hm?"

Ben Watts ​

 

[Ben Watts]

Ben chuckled as he rose at her gentle urging, his voice light as he quipped, "I may be old, but I can still kneel." He dusted off his knees, the years clearly having taught him to find humor in moments like these. "But I understand," he added with a smirk. "I never liked it much either—perhaps I'm just a bit too eager to return the favor and make someone else uncomfortable, like they used to do with me."

He straightened, his gaze shifting back to the Padawans below. Watching them filled him with a deep sense of comfort, an ease he hadn’t felt in years. These young Jedi, unburdened by his regrets and untouched by his failures, embodied the very hope he had once championed. He felt a peace in their presence, a quiet joy in being here among fellow Jedi, sharing in their purpose.

A thoughtful sigh escaped him as he turned to face Valery, honesty softening his voice. "I may not bring as much as you hope to the Order. I'm not what I once was," he admitted, his tone tinged with a bittersweet acceptance. "Yes, I can provide wisdom and guidance, but my connection to the Force... it’s fractured." He felt the weight of his words, the quiet resignation he’d held close finally voiced aloud. He could no longer reach the depths of power he once wielded—Battle Meditation and Force Light were beyond him now, remnants of a time when his connection to the Force had been unbreakable.

Yet, despite his limitations, he felt a surge of renewed purpose. "That all being said, I can and will make myself available to anyone who should seek it. I'd be happy to begin offering my services immediately." He paused, a faint smile softening his expression. "Do you have a place I can stay? I don’t need much—a bed to sleep will do just fine." Years of sparse living had tempered his needs; anything the Jedi could offer would be a kindness, a warmth he hadn’t experienced in so long.

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery couldn't help but laugh softly as Ben rose, catching the humor in his voice and the familiar blend of humility and resilience in his tone. "Well, if the time comes, I'll be sure to let you do the kneeling," she replied, a playful glint sparking in her eyes. "For now, I'll spare you the discomfort." She folded her hands behind her back, mirroring his stance for a moment as they looked out together over the bustling courtyard, the echoes of Padawan laughter drifting up from below.

At his confession about his diminished connection to the Force, Valery's gaze softened. She sensed the honesty there, the quiet acceptance that he was not who he had once been. But to her, it was his presence, his wisdom, and his unwavering spirit that mattered far more than any power he may have lost. "The Force moves in mysterious ways," she replied thoughtfully, "But I believe it brought you back here for a reason. Regardless of your skills, The Jedi will be glad to have you."

She paused, then added, "And perhaps I can help you with your connection to the Force. I've helped two Jedi who were completely severed from the Force restore their connections once."

As he expressed his willingness to offer his guidance and even start immediately, Valery grinned, a spark of warmth lighting up her face. "I'll be sure to put you to work then," she quipped, her voice lighthearted but touched with genuine gratitude. "But first things first — a room." Her gaze danced with humor as she gestured toward the Temple.

"We've got plenty of rooms at the Temple, so there's no need to worry about sleeping arrangements," she assured him, her smile widening. "And if you'd like something a bit more spacious in the city, away from the Temple, I can see what I can arrange." She still had an old apartment of her own in the city as well.

She paused for a moment, then tilted her head, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "So, what'll it be? Shall I show you to your room, or would you like to grab something to eat and talk a bit more?" She gestured with a welcoming sweep of her arm. "You're my guest today, so the choice is yours."

Ben Watts ​

 

[Ben Watts]

Ben glanced sideways at her as she mentioned restoring his connection to the Force. Her willingness to help touched him deeply, and he found himself grateful not only for the offer but for the understanding in her eyes. She had likely helped others through similar journeys, but Ben knew, in his heart, that this was a path he needed to walk alone. It wasn’t that he refused her support; rather, he recognized that his own doubts and regrets were obstacles only he could overcome. Forgiveness had to come from within, and she had already taken the first step by offering it freely.

"Your support means the world," he replied, his smile warm. "But I'm afraid this is a personal journey I must walk alone." He felt she would understand, knowing that he wasn’t rejecting her offer but simply acknowledging the nature of his own healing.

His gaze drifted to the cityscape beyond the temple, the vast sprawl of Coruscant stretching into the distance. "Please," he said quietly, "I need only a place to lay my head here at the Temple." The thought of returning to life outside these walls unsettled him; the temple felt like home, a sanctuary where he could begin to rebuild himself. "I will feel more useful here and not out there." His voice softened, the memories of his youth surfacing, reminding him of when he had once felt so connected to this place. He wasn’t ready to face the world beyond yet, not until he felt whole again.

The mention of a meal brought a genuine smile to his face. “A meal sounds wonderful.” He took a step back, extending his hands to indicate he was ready to follow her lead. "I'd love to hear more about you," he added, curiosity and admiration in his gaze. "Tell me how you came to become Grandmaster. I'm sure the tale is exciting."

In truth, he hoped her story would not only offer insight into the challenges she had faced but also remind him of the strength that could still be found within himself.

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's gaze softened as Ben spoke, sensing both his resolve and the profound weight he still carried. She understood well that the path to restoring one's connection to the Force, especially after such personal trials, often had to be walked alone. It was a journey of self-forgiveness and acceptance, and no amount of external guidance could replace the internal work he'd need to do. She nodded, her amber eyes filled with respect. "I understand, Ben. Know that my support is here whenever you need it, but I'll trust you to take the steps you need in your own time."

When he mentioned needing only a place to stay within the Temple, she nodded again, her smile warm. "You'll always have a home here. Take as much time as you need to feel whole again, right here where you belong." She gestured lightly toward the heart of the Temple, a silent invitation to embrace its peace and sanctuary.

At his request for a meal and his curiosity about her journey to becoming Grandmaster, she chuckled softly, leading him through the grand corridors toward the dining hall. "It's a story I don't tell often," she began with a wry smile, "But I suppose I can share the highlights with you."

They reached the hall, and as they settled into their seats with simple, hearty meals before them, Valery took a moment to gather her thoughts. She began to speak, her tone reflective yet grounded. "I started as a Jedi Shadow after I came out of stasis — I was younger, driven, and focused on finding and destroying dark artifacts, hunting down remnants of the Sith where they hid." Her fingers tapped gently on the table, recalling the intense, solitary work she had once embraced. "But during the Second Great Hyperspace War, I found myself needing to step into the light… literally. The leadership within the Order was faltering. Many of our Knights were rebellious, acting more as vigilantes than Jedi, and there was no unifying vision. It felt chaotic."

She paused, her gaze shifting to a distant point as she recalled the war's turning moments. "I left the Shadows to lead openly on the battlefield. I wanted to show our younger Jedi what it meant to be a warrior for peace, not a vigilante. Eventually, I joined the Council, and they entrusted me with the title of 'Sword of the Jedi' — a role not just of combat but of leadership in times of crisis."

"We were up against the Brotherhood of the Maw, a Sith-led faction that was relentless. They destroyed planets like Csilla and Panatha, leaving nothing but devastation in their wake. They nearly destroyed Tython too." Her voice softened, an edge of sorrow threading through it. "So many lives were lost, so many places were reduced to ashes. But together, we fought back. After the defense of Tython, we turned the tide, and eventually, we pushed them back to Exegol. That's where we ended the war."

A faint smile returned to her lips. "After that, there was a time of peace, and the Council named me Grandmaster. I still bear the title of Sword of the Jedi, but now it's more symbolic. I try to lead with both strength and wisdom, hoping to build an Order that can endure beyond the trials of war."

She looked back at him, an open, gentle expression in her eyes. "I never sought this role, but it's one I'm honored to hold. I hope to be the leader our Order needs."

Ben Watts ​