Private Green Horizons

[Valery Noble]

New Cov Jedi Temple

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery stood on the sunlit landing pad of the New Cov Jedi Temple, her arms loosely folded as a gentle breeze toyed with her long, dark hair. Strands lifted and danced in the wind, occasionally brushing against her face, which she didn't seem to mind. She tilted her head back slightly, her fiery eyes half-closed as she took in the serene surroundings. The air here was rich and vibrant, carrying the scent of fresh foliage, blooming flowers, and the faint tang of earth after a recent rain. It was a smell she loved — grounding and peaceful, a perfect harmony with the Force that flowed through this lush world.

The hum of the jungle's life surrounded her, a symphony of chirping insects, distant birdsong, and the occasional rustle of leaves as creatures moved through the undergrowth. The tranquility of New Cov was a sharp contrast to the often-chaotic nature of her role within the New Jedi Order, but it was a balance she welcomed. It reminded her of the beauty worth protecting, the reason for the fight.

A soft chime from her datapad drew her attention, signaling the imminent arrival of the shuttle. Valery's lips curved into a small, warm smile as she stepped closer to the edge of the pad. She adjusted the belt of her jumpsuit and brushed a stray strand of hair from her face. Ella Gosiff was about to arrive — young, eager, and full of potential.

Valery could remember her own first day vividly, the mix of excitement and nervousness. She took a deep breath, her voice soft as she murmured to herself, "Another journey begins," she said and hoped.

The faint sound of the shuttle's engines hummed in the distance, growing louder as it approached. Valery straightened, her presence calm but welcoming, ready to meet the new Padawan who would soon step into this tranquil world, full of possibilities.

Ella Gosiff ​

 

[Ella Gosiff]

A rusty transport broke through the atmosphere of New Cov. It dropped very low, so that it brushed the green treetops of the jungle.

Within those trees, a legion of Kowakian monkey lizards screamed as they flung themselves onto vines and scattered, entire families swinging through the foilage.

Inside, the Duros pilot looked at her from the pilot chair. "Got to go in low," he said over the engine. "Jedi temple is low."

The young Twi'lek lady next to him blinked at him but said nothing. She frowned and turned her attention back to his window. She reached out with the "Force" - or tried to - it was like an emotion for her. It did not return any useful data - other than there were frenzied life forms below them. It did not give her a clear answer like the eyes did.

"Ze Jedi will not be able to control you!" The mistress of the orphanage had shook her head three days ago. "Zey will send you away to another farm!"

Ella had glared. "At least I will be away from you!"

Her attention shifted back to the Duros pilot as he continued talking.

"Soon as I drop you - you go into temple. Got other runs to make." The pilot looked at her. "Don't go running into da jungle." He paused and clapped his hands in her face. "Something big eat you right up!"

She looked at him. "I am not afraid," she said in a low voice.

"Heh!" He laughed and shook his head. "Maybe, maybe not. Maybe you should be!"

In the next minutes he had dropped her off at the base of an ancient stone temple and flew off without another word.

She lifted her backpack and scrambled up the large stone steps, covered in vines. After a few minutes of hustling up the stairs, lekku flopping, she glanced up and saw a woman.

A very fit-looking woman with a long ponytail and a dark flightsuit. Although she was waiting patiently, a flood of nerves hit the Twi'lek.

The bag slipped off her and she scrambled to get it before it tumbled down the steps again. "Oh!"

She snatched it and huffed up the stairs again, finally coming to rest before this human woman.

Unsure of the proper protocol of greeting a Jedi, she wobbled into an awkward half-bow and was uncertain whether or not to raise her eyes from the stone ground.

"Hello!" she burst out, catching her breath and peeking up at the Jedi female.

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

New Cov Jedi Temple

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's warm smile softened further as she watched the young Twi'lek scramble up the stairs, her lekku flopping with every hurried step. The bag slipping from Ella's shoulder brought a flicker of amusement to Valery's fiery eyes, but she remained still, her calm presence radiating reassurance as the Padawan finally reached her.

When Ella stood before her, fumbling into an uncertain half-bow and blurting out a breathless "Hello!", Valery let out a soft, melodic laugh that seemed to melt away some of the formality in the air.

"You made it," Valery said warmly, stepping forward and inclining her head slightly in return, though her bow was smooth and measured. "Welcome to New Cov, Ella."

She gestured gently to the vibrant jungle that surrounded the temple, its lush greens framing the ancient stone. "The temple here is a bit... lively, as I'm sure you noticed on the way in," she added, her tone lightly teasing as she referenced the pilot's dramatic warning.

Valery crouched briefly to help adjust Ella's pack so it sat more securely on her shoulder, her hands deft but kind. Straightening, she met the Padawan's gaze with a reassuring smile. "There's no need to be nervous. This is the beginning of your journey with the Order, and we're here to guide you every step of the way."

Her amber eyes sparkled with encouragement as she stepped to the side, gesturing for Ella to join her. "Come, let's get you inside. There's so much to see, and I'd like to hear more about you while we walk."

Valery turned toward the temple entrance, her pace measured to let Ella keep up. As the vibrant sounds of the jungle accompanied their steps, she glanced at the young Twi'lek and smiled, "How was the journey to get here?"

Ella Gosiff ​

 

[Ella Gosiff]

Ella watched the Jedi Master’s movements carefully, and felt a tug of appreciation as she knelt and adjusted her bag before leading them on.

She looked back at the jungle as they moved on. She couldn’t quite describe the feeling, but something called to her out there. Whether it was the click of the insects or the curve in the dark green trees, she wasn’t sure.

But the Jedi Master’s voice called her back to their walk as they moved under the shadow of the great temple.

Ella searched for the woman’s name, given briefly to her on the trip over. Master Valery…Noble?

“It was a good trip,” she said, looking up at her slightly. “The pilot was a little…odd but he was okay. He said it was a three day trip from Ryloth to the Mid Rim.”

They walked in silence for a moment, and Ella felt it was probably necessary to thank her in some fashion.

“Thank you, Master Valery!” she blurted out. Her fingers tightened around her backpack straps. “I have never seen anywhere other zan Ryloth.”

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

New Cov Jedi Temple

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery smiled softly at Ella's gratitude, her fiery gaze gentle as she glanced down at the young Twi'lek walking beside her. The temple loomed ahead, its shadow offering a cool reprieve from the warmth of the jungle sun, but her attention remained on Ella's words.

"You're very welcome, Ella," Valery replied, her tone warm and genuine. "I'm glad you had a safe journey. It can be daunting leaving home for the first time, especially when it's for something as big as this."

She let her gaze wander briefly to the surrounding jungle, the vibrant life of New Cov humming softly in the background. "But the galaxy is full of so many incredible places, each with their own beauty and lessons to offer. You'll see so much more than you ever imagined now that you're here."

Her smile widened just slightly as she added, "And Ryloth is a beautiful world too. It's a big step to leave it behind, but it shows how strong and determined you are to be here."

As they reached the entrance to the temple, Valery paused and turned to face Ella, her hands resting lightly at her sides. "This is the start of your journey, but also of your connection to the Force and the Jedi Order. You'll find challenges ahead, but also so much growth and discovery." Her voice was calm, steady, and filled with the kind of reassurance that only came with experience.

She gestured toward the temple doors, which stood open to reveal the grand yet serene interior. "Let's head inside. I'd like to hear more about your life on Ryloth while I show you around. What do you miss most about home? And what are you looking forward to most as a Jedi?"

Ella Gosiff ​

 

[Ella Gosiff]

Ella watched as Master Valery waved her hand and the doors were softly pushed. Aside from her own accident back on Ryloth, it was the first act from the Force she had seen up close.

Her breath caught a little in her throat.

She followed the Master through the doors and into a great stone hall that stretched into a long corridor. This corridor terminated in a series of steps either down or up, going left and right, so that it branched off in several different directions.

From the moment she entered, there were a multitude of options - physically or otherwise.

She tried to shake her head and concentrate on what Master Valery had asked of her.

"Well…" She supposed it was brave to leave her homeworld and show up on the door of the Jedi. But also, she hadn't felt as if she’d had much choice. "Well…"

"I will miss my siblings the most," she said at last. Her headtails dipped considerably. "I was the oldest..so..I hope they'll be okay without me." Her fingers drummed along her straps. "I know they'll be okay. That, and the cows."

Her tone brightened. "What am I most looking forward to?" She thought, her lips pushing to the side a little. She smiled.

"The lightsabers. You don't get to see those in action very often back home. I used to see zem in the news, of course…the war." She paused. "But I can't wait to get my hands on one..or..or build my own."

She let out a laugh, which echoed over the hallway.

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

New Cov Jedi Temple

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's warm smile lingered as she listened to Ella, the young Padawan's words carrying both the weight of leaving home and the excitement of a new journey. When Ella mentioned her siblings and the cows, Valery's expression softened even further, her fiery eyes filled with understanding.

"It's natural to miss your siblings," Valery said gently. "You've probably felt responsible for them in ways they may not even realize. But the strength and love you've shown by coming here will inspire them, even from a distance. And who knows?" She added with a small, reassuring grin, "Maybe you'll get the chance to visit them one day and show them how much you've learned."

At the mention of lightsabers, Valery chuckled softly, her amusement mirrored in the way her eyes sparkled. "Ah, the lightsabers," she said, her tone playful. "You're not alone in that excitement. They're an iconic part of being a Jedi, and every youngling dreams of holding one."

She gestured lightly toward the corridor ahead, guiding Ella forward as they walked deeper into the temple. The serene ambiance of the place wrapped around them, a stark contrast to the enthusiasm bubbling in Ella's voice.

"You'll actually get your first training lightsaber very soon," Valery explained, her tone encouraging. "It's not as dangerous as a real one, but it handles the same way. It will help you learn the techniques and discipline needed to wield one safely and effectively."

Her expression grew a touch more thoughtful as she continued, "And when you're ready, you'll have the opportunity to travel to one of the sacred locations where Jedi find their crystals. You'll choose one that resonates with you through the Force, and with it, you'll build your own lightsaber."

Valery paused briefly, turning her gaze toward Ella with a proud smile. "That moment is one of the most personal and meaningful steps in a Jedi's journey. When the time comes, it will be your creation, unique to you and your connection to the Force."

She chuckled softly, her expression brightening as Ella's laughter echoed in the hallway. "But for now, let's focus on getting you settled. There's plenty of time for lightsabers, and trust me — the wait will make it all the more special."

Ella Gosiff ​

 

[Ella Gosiff]

Ella gave Master Val a small smile and shrugged quietly as they continued walking. She didn't dare hope for it, and certainly didn't say it out loud. But the Master had planted a tiny seed - a fraction of a dream - in her head.

She imagined herself a Jedi Knight, her hood obscuring her face as the desert winds kicked dust up around her, while all of her brothers and sisters reached out to lay their hands on her.

"Numa," they said. Sister.

She blinked and tried to concentrate as Valery led her on, to the barracks where the Padawans slept separate from their instructors. Master Valery's lightsabers bobbed at her hip as she walked, and Ella stole little glances at them but said nothing.

Very soon she was standing in a common area among other Padawans her age or even younger. They were of all different species and heights and clothes, but to her they seemed just like the kids she grew up with in the orphanage.

She stood by Master Val and vaguely rubbed her hands together, unsure of what to say to a roomful of eyes that turned to look at them.

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

New Cov Jedi Temple

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's fiery gaze swept over the gathered Padawans as they turned their attention toward her and Ella. The warmth of the common area, filled with the soft hum of conversation and the occasional burst of laughter, was a welcoming contrast to the hesitance she felt radiating from her young companion.

Valery rested a reassuring hand on Ella's shoulder, offering her a small, encouraging smile. "These are your peers," she said gently, her tone soothing but bright. "You'll train with them, grow alongside them, and support each other in the challenges ahead. It might feel overwhelming now, but you'll find your place here, Ella. I know it."

As Valery continued to speak, her sharp senses caught Ella's subtle glances at the lightsabers hanging at her hip. The curiosity in the girl's eyes was unmistakable, and it brought a knowing smile to Valery's lips.

She leaned in slightly, her voice dropping just enough for Ella to hear, "You know, I've noticed you sneaking looks at my lightsabers." Her tone was teasing, but gentle, as she gave the girl a playful wink. "Would you like to see a training lightsaber up close? Maybe even hold one?"

Valery straightened and gestured toward a door leading out of the common area. "Why don't we head to the training room? It's quieter there, and I can show you how a training saber feels in your hands. We might even get to try a little basic practice if you're up for it."

Ella Gosiff ​

 

[Ella Gosiff]

Ella folded her arms and looked at Master Val. She was sure she was right. The woman who ran the orphanage had said the same thing - she would find her place there.

Unfortunately, it was often in trouble.

Her lekku flattened when Master Val spoke to her in private, as if the lightsabers were something she personally enjoyed too. Almost as if it were not necessarily proper, but still a lot of fun.

She grinned, her heart racing at the thought of getting one, even if it was just for training. She nodded, her tentacles bobbing with the motion.

“Let’s do zat, Master Valery,” she said. She snuck one more look back at the other teenagers before following her out.

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

New Cov Jedi Temple

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's smile widened at Ella's enthusiasm, her fiery eyes glinting with pride as she noticed the subtle shift in the young Twi'lek's demeanor. She nodded gently and placed a comforting hand on Ella's shoulder as they turned toward the door leading to the training room.

"Good," Valery said warmly. "I think you're going to like this."

The two walked side by side through the softly lit halls of the Temple, the sound of their footsteps echoing faintly. Valery glanced down at Ella, her tone light and conversational. "You know," she began, "The first time I held a training lightsaber, I remember being so excited that I accidentally ignited it backward and almost burned my robes." She chuckled, shaking her head at the memory. "Thankfully, no one noticed... or at least, they pretended not to."

Her playful story seemed to lighten the mood as they reached the training room. Valery pushed the door open, revealing the wide expanse of the chamber. The polished floor gleamed under the bright lighting, and the walls were adorned with racks of training sabers and other tools for young Jedi to hone their skills.

Valery walked over to one of the racks and carefully selected a training saber, its silver hilt smooth and unassuming. She turned to Ella and extended it toward her with both hands, her expression encouraging. "Here it is," she said softly. "It's not as dangerous as a real lightsaber, but it feels very similar. Go ahead, give it a try."

She stepped back slightly to give Ella space, her hands clasped behind her back as she watched. "The first time you ignite it, remember to hold it firmly but not too tight. Let it feel like an extension of yourself, not just a tool in your hand."

Ella Gosiff ​

 

[Ella Gosiff]

Ella took the silver handle from Master Val and held it in both hands for a moment, carefully examining it as she turned it over.

It felt lighter than she had expected. She smiled, thinking of Master Val burning her own robes, and thought of herself dropping the backpack down the stairs.

She held it out in front of her with one hand, as if it were a firework, and pressed the button. The training saber rose to life, a violet-pink color that glittered in the light of the training room, where a large port overlooked the mountainside and the jungle far below.

The Twi'lek did a small swing with one hand, and the blade made a quick waaaam sound.

"It's beautiful," she said to Master Valery.

Valery Noble​

 

[Valery Noble]

New Cov Jedi Temple

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's fiery eyes softened as she watched Ella ignite the training saber, the violet-pink blade casting a faint glow across the young Twi'lek's face. A warm smile spread across her lips as the hum of the saber filled the quiet training room, blending with the soft rustling of wind coming through the open viewport.

"It is, isn't it?" Valery said gently, her voice filled with warmth and encouragement. "That sound, that light... it's a symbol of what it means to be a Jedi. Not just a weapon, but a reflection of the balance we strive to maintain and the purpose we carry."

She stepped closer, her hands still clasped behind her back as she observed Ella's movements. The Twi'lek's enthusiasm and awe reminded her of her own first moments with a lightsaber, and she couldn't help but feel a deep sense of pride.

"You have a good grip, and that swing was a nice start," Valery continued, her tone instructional but kind. "Now, let's work on a basic stance. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, and keep your knees slightly bent. That way, you stay balanced and ready to move in any direction."

She demonstrated, moving into the stance herself with fluid precision, her posture strong yet relaxed. "Hold the hilt with both hands for now," she added, gesturing toward the saber in Ella's hand. "Feel the weight of it, even though it's light. Let it guide your movements, not the other way around."


She stepped back slightly t give Ella more space, her pride evident in the way she watched the Padawan. "Now, try a few more swings, just like that first one. Let the blade flow naturally, and remember — confidence comes with practice."

Ella Gosiff ​

 

[Ella Gosiff]

Ella nodded at Master Valery’s words.

She crouched into a position with her knees bent slightly, as if she were a frog going to jump, and extended the blade in front of her.

She took a careful swing up and then down. The humming blade made two notes in the air that sounded like whim-wham.

Her lekku jumped with the motion.

She smiled and looked at Valery, the light in her eyes.

“Like that?” she called over to her.

Valery Noble​

 

[Valery Noble]

New Cov Jedi Temple

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's warm smile deepened as she watched Ella's excitement, the young Twi'lek's lekku bouncing with the motion of her swings. The hum of the training saber was a sweet reminder of what it meant to see a new Jedi take their first steps into a larger world.

"Just like that," Valery said, her fiery eyes glowing with pride. "You're getting the hang of it. Keep your movements steady, and let the blade flow with you — not too stiff, not too loose. You're doing great, Ella."

She unclasped her hands from behind her back and, with a calm, practiced motion, reached for her own lightsaber. The familiar snap-hiss of the violet blade igniting filled the air, its brilliant glow casting soft shadows along the training room walls. Valery's grip was steady, but the energy radiating from her was warm and inviting.

"I'll turn this down to training power," she explained, adjusting the saber's settings so it would only sting harmlessly upon contact. "I want you to practice a few strikes against me. Don't worry about being perfect — this is all about learning to feel the blade and your movements."

Valery moved into a defensive stance, her saber angled across her body with ease. "Alright, Ella," she said, her tone calm and encouraging. "Try a few simple strikes at me. Just aim for my blade, and I'll block. Focus on the rhythm of your movements and keeping your stance balanced."

As Ella prepared to strike, Valery remained steady, her presence in the Force a calm and grounding beacon, ready to guide her Padawan through this next step in her training.

Ella Gosiff ​