Faction &nbsp; NJO | The Determination Form

Auraya Irath-Ur · Jan 16, 2021

Though well aware that she was still in need of rudimentary training where all things lightsabers were concerned, the thought of participating in a lesson meant for children half her age had left a small pit in the young girl's stomach. By this point in life she ought to have been dipping her toes in hosting such things, presenting what she knew and offering a new outlook on how to achieve it to the younger minds of the Order.

But that was not to be the case.

As she ventured through the halls of the Jedi Temple she did her best to block it all out. The intrusive thoughts, the incessant signs of bustling life within and beyond the Temple... Life on Coruscant was proving to be rather tough for her to adjust to. She spent more time than she'd ever admit locked within the Room of a Thousand Fountains, meditating and grasping at pure swathes of flora it held within. As if by doing so she could somehow magic herself back to the Enclave.

She knew that holding on to the past was not a smart move. Knew that overcoming and adapting was something that was expected of their kind. But that didn't make it any easier. Much less when she felt like an outlier among them, as she did now.

One did not improve by stagnating in place, though. If she wanted to make something of herself, to break the cycle of disappointing her mentors and Masters, then she'd have to buckle up and deal with the momentary embarrassment. However uncomfortable it might have been.

Her training saber drummed against her thigh as she paced the corridor and finally came to a stand beside the designated door. She did not enter yet, having arrived earlier than requested, instead taking the time to simply breathe.

Zaavik would be here. He would see how poorly his newly appointed Padawan's use of a blade really was. She had to focus... She had to seem at least somewhat competent. This was a fresh start, a new leaf, and she had no room for error. Not anymore.

Ryv

Ryv · Jan 16, 2021

From within Ryv's office, the typical heavy-isotope blared out into the hall. The kiffar sat back in his seat, feet kicked up on his desk, with his quirky BD unit accompanying him. Big Chieftain hopped around wildly, headbanging to its central power core's content. Ryv watched with a broad smile. They finally caught up with the months' worth of backlogs and reports filed in his absence—no more back pains from being hunched over for ten straight hours a day.

"Hey, little dude," Ryv called to the droid and sat up. "I'm in the mood to move. What classes we got on the agenda today?"

BD-8, or the Chieftain to his friends, lowered the music and turned to the Jedi Knight. A rapid series of beeps shot forth a million miles an hour, nearly too fast for the kiffar to make out.

"Auteme's doing a class on ancient Sith history?" he considered the idea. "Laaaame, what else you got?" the droid offered another option. "You know damn well I'm not gonna sit in on Allyson's stealth lessons. My lightsaber can be felt from a continent away. That won't help me at all," he pushed up from his chair, approaching the window overlooking the temple courtyard. Dozens of younglings sat beneath the great tree, led in meditation by Jedi Master Naero, one of the few traditionalists who called the New Jedi Order home.

"I guess we can go grab some Hutta Burger and see what Aaran's up to. Maybe play catchup, ask him about his time away and all that," Ryv turned back to the room, his palms pressed flat against the window sill as he rested against the glass. Big Chieftain shook its head. It projected a list of activities scheduled for the day. At the top, Aaran's name jumped out at the Jedi Knight, alongside the words 'basic lessons.' Unable to hide his disappointment, he sighed aloud and facepalmed. "Buddy! This is the type of thing I'm looking for! Basics with the younglings is the best, especially when Aaran heads the class. Keep an eye on the office, alright? I'll be back later!"

Ryv slipped out the door, all calm and collected. When he turned the corner at the end of the hall, well out of the BD unit's field of vision, he broke into a sprint.

"Woohoo!" he dashed through the corridors with an even bigger smile than before. He hadn't sat in on one of Aaran's lessons since they met back on Peace years before. A golden opportunity to catch up with his absentee friend and support him all in one go. A win-win.

When the training room came into view, Ryv slid to a halt just down the hall. He smoothed down his hair, slipped his phone into his pocket, and approached Auraya with a grin.

"You hear for basics with Aaran?" the Sword of the Jedi inquired, still bubbly. "Right on! Never can spend too much time on the essentials!"

He clapped a hand down on her shoulder and activated the door with the click of a button. It slid aside, revealing the room and those gathered within. Ryv's smile tripled at the sight of the younglings.

"It's Master Karis!" one shouted before running over to Ryv.

"Hey there, Leo, you ready for today's lesson?" Ryv asked the boy while patting his head. He moved to the group of smaller students, most no taller than his waist. Typical of the kiffar, he gave each of them a unique greeting, High-fives, fist bumps, hugs, and even a gentle headbutt to a thinly framed child adorned in a Tuskan Raiders headdress. A few quick gestures, followed by a series of grunts from Ryv, saw the child's shoulders bounce in laughter. From there, he straightened and approached Aaran. Ryv fell into a formal bow, one made to request permission to step onto the mat.

"I hope you don't mind if I join in, Aaran. I love your lessons."

Kisaku Oroken ||

Aaran Tafo || Auraya Irath-Ur ||

Naero ||

Zaavik Perl · Jan 16, 2021

CORUSCANT // JEDI TEMPLE

PADAWAN

Auraya Irath-Ur

THE BOYS

 Kisaku Oroken

 Aaran Tafo

 Ryv

 Naero

"Yeah, fine, I'll meet you there." Auraya had mentioned the class, and while Zaavik wasn't actually particularly keen on attending, it wasn't like he had anything planned for her on this particular day. His intention was little more than to observe, see what Auraya could do, be there for some semblance of support. What did he have to learn for a class meant for Padawans and Younglings? 

Zaavik lagged behind intentionally. He delayed leaving for a while, and then took a few detours once he actually got around to getting up. Errands here and there, and finally a swing by that Duros-family-run restaurant just outside of Monument Plaza. Two Nuna Leg and Puffer Pig bacon deluxe burritos with extra rock chillis. It hurt the pocket a little, but they were definitely worth the cred. Each of them came wrapped in thermo-foil and sealed with a little sticker that read 'Thank You!' in aurebesh basic. 

He tucked both of them away inside an inner jacket pocked before tearing off towards the Temple on his Swoop Bike. Repulsor-engines screamed across the Coruscanti skyline as he weaved through traffic and took multiple non-air-traffic designated shortcuts. At least seven traffic laws were shattered during the short trip to the temple, but somehow nothing came of it. Nothing ever did. Maybe he was just lucky so far. 

The horn of an airspeeder beeped along with the sounds of a Gran shouting as Zaavik cut him off at an intersection. Zaavik regarded him with a rude gesture and shouted "Voti cav!" Eat my ass, in his mother tongue as he tore between backed up vehicles in traffic. He was in a hurry, and largely at the detriment to everyone else in the air lanes. 

The bike drifted to a halt, parked incorrectly on the air-platform of the Temple. He threw one leg over, hopping off the vehicle and embarking in a hustled-fast walk toward the temple. Through the arrival chamber, up a set of stairs, and around a few corners, and to the closing doors of the designated teaching chamber. Zaavik slipped through the doors just before they connected, and quickly enough not to trigger the safety sensors that would cause them to reopen. His deft slithering would see him entirely unnoticed as he came in and then strolled to a pillar to lean against it. 

The loud crinkling of theromofoil being torn away from one side of a burrito would be the first indication of his presence.

Kisaku Oroken · Jan 16, 2021

"Are you here for the lesson?"

Ryv Auraya Irath-Ur

Zaavik Perl
. . .

"I-- Y-yes! The lesson, I'm here for the lesson." Kisaku blurted out as he quickly scrambled to his feet. The lightsaber that had fallen from his grasp shuddered and then flew into his palm as he clasped his hands with the saber behind his back. The rather... Scuffed looking Padawan had never been a good liar. Dotted with small welts and clothing that bore singe marks from the 'execution via training remote firing squad' he'd just endured, it was a detail that someone who couldn't see the blackened marks wouldn't notice... He unsubtly nudged one of the fallen remotes with his foot away from him with a reddened face, only ending up calling attention to it.

He had no flipping idea what the lesson was or who he was speaking to -- only that attendance was preferable to admitting what he'd just been doing. It may not have been a big deal objectively, but to Kisaku he was still bearing the embarrassment of getting rekt in front of a bunch of younglings.

...When more poured through the door. Force ghost on a cracker, it was a youngling class. He was cherry red in his face, but the words had already left his mouth.

He was attending a youngling intro to saber course.

'Can my day POSSIBLY get any worse?' Well -- maybe. At least his master wasn't here to witness any of it, although he desperately hoped none of them knew Auteme. As long as he could never see anyone here again he'd be perfectly fine.

When he finally pried himself out of thought long enough to pay attention to reality again, he came to realize that someone about his age -- a Padawan? A knight perhaps? Began to linger outside the door... And was followed shortly there after by Ryv Karis. He could feel his jaw slackening somewhat as the boisterous man made his entry, mind racing a mile a minute. No one like that attended the intro to saber when he was a youngling! He observed the conversation with a delicately furrowed brow... They were friends then? Who was this teaching the class?

His mind was filled with so many questions he hadn't even noticed Zaavik's entry.

Auraya Irath-Ur · Jan 17, 2021

So lost in her pathetic attempts at quietening her mind, Auraya practically jumped out of her skin at the boisterous arrival of the Jedi Knight. When his hand clasped her shoulder she felt certain he could feel the adrenaline coursing through her veins, but if he noted it he did not make mention. Instead he was swift in his opening of the door, and was gone inside the room before she could really say much in response.

A whirlwind. That was the best way to describe him. Still in the aftermath she found herself with a small smile upon her lips, something she had been sorely lacking ever since leaving the Enclave. His enthusiasm well and truly infectious, it spurred her on and into the room beyond where a small congregation had begun to form. Two who looked to be Knights, one Miralukan who was likely a fellow Padawan if she had to hazard a guess - worse for wear, too, to look at him - and a small handful of Younglings.

Auraya was grateful that she had at least a rudimentary understanding of the topic of that day's session, Shii-Cho. Though she might not have been the best at velocities, she understood the various marks and zones. At least she could hold the correct stance. Had it been any other form she would have been well and truly borked...

So she stood off to one side, observing without necessarily intruding or eavesdropping on the various conversations which were happening, as she waited for the session to begin. Perhaps she ought to have said something, introduced herself and figured out who was who among them, but as had been happening rather frequently since arriving on Coruscant she found herself incapable of doing so. As though her lips had been sewn shut, she couldn't even open them without coaxing.

Luckily for her she did not notice the arrival of her Master. She was not certain if he had even really been planning on attending, though he had said he might. The added pressure that might have appeared should she have seen him was alleviated. For now.

Ryv

Aaran Tafo · Jan 17, 2021

"Good." Was his simple reply to Kisaku's confirmation that the other Padawan would be joining the class. It was always a source of confidence for the younglings to see the even the older Padawans come back to review the basics. It showed them that it was alright to fail, everyone struggled with various things. What mattered was that you put in the needed effort.

He did not comment Kisaku's frazzled state or the scattered remotes. He was hardly the only person to try and sneak in extra training before class. If anything, the Knight Errant found the Miralukan's drive to improve to be commendable A quick wave of his hand and the various scattered training droids began to float in the air, the instructor for the day guiding them back into their proper place. "Please do clean these up when you are done in the future. I would prefer none of the younglings get stunned by accident." His tone was not scolding, merely hoping to ensure that the Padawan held a greater responsibility for his actions.

As the Younglings began to make their way into the classroom. His neutral expression softened into a more easy-going smile. Positive energy and encouragement tended to work best for when educating children during such formulative years. His easy smile turning into a grin when he saw his old friend

Ryv amongst their number. The polite bow was replied to with the instructor tossing one of the wooden practice blades to the Knight. "Congrats. You've been promoted to Teacher's Assistant." He said, jerking his head towards the front of the classroom, indicating that he wanted Ryv up front.

If nothing else, showing that even someone as famous as the Sword of the Jedi still went to remedial classes would go a long way into keeping the Younglings working hard. And be something of a reassurance to the two older students that had found themselves present. "Everyone." He called out, clapping his hands in order to get their attention. "Please form your rows. Tallest at the back and be sure to have plenty of space." He moved to the front towards the teacher's podium, setting up the series of holoprojectors to ensure that everyone present, bar those who were physically blind, could see an image of Ryv projected. "Master Karis will be aiding me in a demonstration of the first kata of Shii-Cho. We'll be taking it slow as for many of you, it will be your first time. So don’t worry if you don’t get it right on your initial attempt. I'll be correcting any errors." He said, giving the Kiffar a nod, indicating for him to take the opening stance of the Determination Form.

Slowly, he would make his way through the ranks of the assembled trainees. Gently correcting any mistakes that inexperienced hands were performing. Stopping for a moment next to Auraya Irath-Ur . "As many of you have been told. Each of the seven forms rely not just on physical training. But also a degree of mental discipline." His eyes scanning over the crowd, ensuring that those assembled were listening. "Each style has a core concept they revolve around. Makashi for example, is all about control. Precise thrusts, delicate footwork. Making sure you're always a step ahead of your opponent " He explained, eyes drifting towards the back of the class, for the briefest of moments locking eyes with

Zaavik Perl before returning his attention to the Younglings. "The third form. Soresu is all about patience. Waiting for the right moment to strike and conserving one's own energy. Looking to outlast your opponent."

Finally his gaze turned to Auraya. "Can anyone tell me what the core concept behind Shii-Cho is?" He asked, leaving the question open to anyone brave enough to answer.

Aaran Tafo Auraya Irath-Ur

Kisaku Oroken · Jan 17, 2021

Kisaku nodded shyly, somewhat cowed by Aaran's correction, but was happy to move passed it. The way he didn't make a big deal of it was somewhat encouraging, and he found himself standing in the back of the room with the other Padawan. However, when the lesson began in earnest and the question asked, Kisaku didn't have a hope of stopping himself from opining on his favorite subject.

"Shii-cho is about victory through opportunity," Kisaku immediately blurted out, before hesitating. His mouth moved faster than his mind and he knew that it wasn't the answer the instructor was looking for. He had paused only a moment to pinken, knowing an explanation was needed. "Some would say that it's about disarming your opponent, and a large number of the techniques do target the weapon and the hands. That's a product of the weapon and the arms being the safest target - you're in range to intercept the hands or the weapon during an opponent's strike -- and often if they adopt a weapon forward stance -- before you're in range to attack the rest of the body. When you look at Shii-cho as a whole, with the footwork denying and controlling angles of movement, everything in Shii-cho emphasizes pressuring an opponent to create an opening to end the fight. It's why it's also called 'The Determination Form'."

It was an answer that wasn't in a textbook. Furthermore, it was an answer Kisaku had arrived at through his own lengthy introspection upon his favored form. Too often he'd questioned the answer he'd been provided. He didn't find it satisfactory after learning all of the kata that the temple taught on the subject. Many of them seemed to go an extra step to secure victory in a manner that would be non-lethal outside of a spar. For example, after performing a downward beat to a weak forward guard a kata taught to follow it with a cut directed to the inside of the wrist while stepping off-line to the opponent's weak side.

Through his own experience, Kisaku began to question if that was the most expedient technique. Once his opponent's saber had been beaten off-line... He controlled the center line. He controlled the distance directly between himself and his opponent. The speed at which a thrust could be delivered was always faster than a cut. He found himself altering the technique when he employed it by keeping contact between his saber and the opponent's - providing safety and control by locking them out. He finished with a closing step to center, sliding his saber at an angle in a thrust to the chest or neck.

It wasn't that he wanted to train to kill. Winning never meant killing in his world thus far. It just made him feel validated, worth something. In the quest for that feeling as his expertise in Shii-cho grew, so too did his pavlovian ignorance of the philosophy the blade-work of Shii-cho tried to engender in him. With every optimization he made in the name of making his blade-play more optimal towards winning a spar he was undoing centuries of carefully plotted mental and spiritual training towards respecting the life of your opponent -- all while missing the forest for the trees.

His answer may have been well-informed and come from someone who was well on his way to becoming an authority on the technical aspects of Shii-cho, but it didn't mean it was the right answer either.

Ryv · Jan 17, 2021

"Sounds good, boss."

Ryv nodded and moved towards the back room. Training sabers lined the wall, alongside several wooden blades carved to resemble the omnidirectional lightsaber favored by the modern Jedi Knight. He lifted one of the bokken from its perch. The smooth surface lacked any imperfections. It was well-balanced and light, a near-perfect replica of a real lightsaber's weight. The kiffar took his time with the implement, his earlier smile replaced by a stoic expression. He followed a simple routine with the wooden blade, which saw him twirl it about his body in an outward display of exceptional defensive blade work. The practiced eye would recognize an astute implementation of numerous defensive maneuvers from forms III and V.

Content with his partner for the lesson, Ryv moved to the front of the class and took up a position where the gathered students could see his movements. He lifted the practice blade ahead of him, held out in such a way that it could be used to turn aside a blow with minimal movement on his part. As he fell into the simplistic maneuvers of form I, he tuned in to Aaran's question. His first attempt at running the class followed a similar pattern, though it led to a discussion on form II, Makashi, instead of further analyzing the lesson's focal point. Ryv couldn't hide his smile at his fellow Jedi's approach to mentoring others.

Kisaku's answer surprised the Sword. Few found the courage to engage such questions, especially in the presence of more practiced Jedi Knights. He'd be someone worth keeping an eye on.

Ryv pivoted on his front foot and shifted his weight from one to the other.

"I find myself agreeing with Padawan Kisaku," Ryv said from his place at the front. "When you look at the styles that came after it, you can spot the progression. Makashi shrinks the strike zones, emphasizing finishing a fight in a single, precise movement. Soresu builds off of form one's basic blaster deflection and its decent defensive capabilities in the face of multiple opponents. Though there is no focus on killing one's foe, the efficiency of the style allows one to overcome a greater enemy through sheer determination rather than superior skill."

He fell silent at that, a nod offered Kisaku's way.

Aaran Tafo |

Kisaku Oroken | Auraya Irath-Ur |

Auraya Irath-Ur · Jan 17, 2021

Auraya was quick to fall into place at the back of the class, ensuring that the Younglings got a full view of all that was being demonstrated by Knight Ryv. She allowed her gaze to drift between instructor and assistant as one spoke with calm explanation and the other ran through various maneuvers associated with Shii-Cho.

The way in which their instructor seemed to stare into her very soul while asking his question unnerved the girl, and she realized all too quickly that he was hoping to draw some sort of response from her directly. Perhaps she was reading too much into it, perhaps it was mere happenstance that he had looked to her before speaking... Auraya was no mind reader, she could not claim to know for sure.

She opened her mouth, though it was barely agape, barely willing to allow words to escape, before the Miralukan spoke up and spared her if only for a little while. His response was lengthier than anything which had come to her mind; she could not claim to know the answer to the question, if it had been taught to her before then never with such verbatim. So she listened, hoping to learn something new from her fellow student, and observed the responses of those gathered around them, from the smallest Youngling to the most experienced Knight she was curious as to where each stood on the subject.

"I think..." she eventually began, much to her own surprise, pushing some of the rising uncertainty back down toward her feet, "That perhaps it is also about form. Fundamentals." From the corner of her eye she finally noticed that her Master was indeed present; as quickly as she spotted him she looked away, as though by doing so he might simply disappear. "Though I won't argue that there are Masters who can utilize it with unpredictability, it is the first Form taught to Jedi Younglings for a reason. We require it as a foundation, from which we can build into the trickier and more complex Forms."

And that, ladies and gentlemen, was precisely why she'd never dipped her toes into the likes of Shien, or Soresu... Plainly put, she was simply not up to form. So she would continue with her velocities, so she would work on making each maneuver instinctive.

She had tried to word her response in such a way as that it did not invalidate her fellow Padawan's answer. Though there were certainly right and wrong answers when it came to many aspects of such things - marks of contact, zones, and the like - there were also different perspectives to be had when speaking on the philosophical level.

At least, she believed as much to be true.

"Or," she added, with a very slight frown which indicated that the thought had only just arisen within her mind, "I suppose I could make an argument for Discipline..." Though she quickly trailed off, allowing the remainder of that thought to linger unsaid as she dropped her gaze to the floor and fell into herself once more. She was in no position to give theories on things which she had proven time and time again to be incompetent with.

Zaavik Perl · Jan 17, 2021

CORUSCANT // JEDI TEMPLE
PADAWAN
Auraya Irath-Ur
THE BOYS

Kisaku Oroken

Aaran Tafo

Ryv

Naero

Zaavik bit into the burrito, the warm matter caressing the inside of his mouth with a sudden rush of flavor. Rock peppers and other vegetables crunched loudly between his teeth, announcing his presence to those still unaware. A light hum of satisfaction emanated from the Shadow as he continued to chew. It was good, he couldn't help but have some kind of reaction. The spice from the peppers hit his throat, coaxing out a small, dry cough after he swallowed the first bite. 

Thermofoil crackled as he peeled even more of it from his food. From behind the students who'd lined up, he listened idly to all the answers, including his Padawan's. Though he hadn't intended to take part in the class beyond observing, he found himself pondering the question. What was the core concept behind Shii-Cho? He remembered learning it as a tutorial form. Blindfolded, deafened, and expected to deflect shots from a Marksman-H. Then again, every youngling had to do that. So what was the point again? 

Fundamentals? Balance? Adaptability? Something like that. It was the very foundation of all bladework. Ataru and Juyo would be useless to him if he hadn't been drilled on the strike points and very fundamentals of wielding a saber, all of which he learned as the very basics of Shii-Cho. His contemplation trailed off, flooded beneath another wash of flavor as he indulged the burrito a second time. 

No use wondering, he was just observing after all.

Aaran Tafo · Jan 18, 2021

He slowly paced his way back towards the front of the class as not one, but two of the students gave their opinions on the core concept of the Determination Form. He allowed a slight twitch of his lips to appear. One of these days, there would be a youngling brave enough to answer his questions. But for now, he was happy with the responses given by two of the older students.

"Excellent responses from both Padawan Oroken and Padawan Irath-Ur." He said, his path now leading him to the front of the class. Clapping his hands together. "Shii-Cho teaches you all one of the most fundamental parts of a fight. As both Master Karis and Master Dagoth will tell you." He said, giving a small nod to the Zeltron by the door. Acknowledging their presence in the class. "Adaptability is one of the most important fundamental skills anyone can have in a battle." He said, finally answering the question he posed. The slightest nod given to Kisaku. "By being able to adapt to a rapidly shifting fight you can seize any opportunity. Being able to think on your feet is a vital skill both in a fight and in day to day life." He confirmed, before shifting through to Auraya. "And one needs a disciplined and focused mind to be able to recognise those opportunities and not get caught up in the heat of battle."

His answer may have felt like it was pandering to both Padawans, rewarding them for speaking up. But there was another reason. Mostly aimed at the Younglings present. That there was rarely ever just one correct answer to a question. He did hope that the implication would stick. Critical thinking skills were far more valuable than talent with a lightsaber after all.

"And that is why to a casual observer, Shii-Cho looks random and clunky. But to anyone with the focus to pay attention will notice that a skilled practitioner will have each movement flow into the next. Capitalising on any mistake their opponent makes." Turning now to

Ryv , the Kiffar would see a rather mischievous twinkle appear in his eye. His friend was clearly planning something. A plot that became apparent as Aaran reached the teacher's podium and began to tinker with the holopad on it.

"But we can discuss theory all day. I've always found that a demonstration goes a long way in the learning process." He announced, before the holoprojectors whirred to life. A semi-opaque ring forming around Ryv.. Expanding outwards until the Knight found himself in the centre of a sparring ring. "Shii-Cho was designed with combating multiple opponents in mind. I believe that both Padawan Oroken and Padawan Irath-Ur have earned a chance to see it in action." He smiled, turning his gaze to both students.

"Please, step into the ring."

Zaavik Perl | Auraya Irath-Ur |

Kisaku Oroken |

Kisaku Oroken · Jan 18, 2021

Auraya Irath-Ur

Zaavik Perl
Vibes

Kisaku swelled with pride as his answer was acknowledged. It wasn't often he got to speak on his own thoughts and conclusions and have them validated. The most attention he tended to get in instruction had previously been from the battle master, and from peers. Kisaku had a hard time making friends, but one of the only ways he did was through other Padawans asking him if he could help them improve their ability with a saber. This felt like a natural continuation of that and he couldn't hide the small smile on his face.

His happy little smile faded somewhat with intense interest as Aaran spoke of an opportunity towards 'seeing it in action'. He should very well hope he deserved the chance to see it in action, he lived it every time a saber came to his hand. Did they have a master of Shii-cho in then? What questions he would have for them! He was halfway absorbed into that fantastical line of thought when the second prompting came. Kisaku was wholly unable to see the holographically projected sparring ring and confusion showed readily on his face as he steps forwards, pointing at himself with a finger a little awkwardly.

Who was he supposed to -- oh. OH.

He and the other padawan were facing off against the man known as the Sword of the Jedi! His excitement became palpable as he understood what was being indicated here. He could feel the instructor's mischievous amusement at setting this up and shared the sentiment even as he made his way to the front of the class. He shrugged out of his tunic, pulling his arms through the neck opening and letting it hang from his midsection, secured by his seninbari. His hands straightened out his ponytail for a moment as he stood there in his sleeveless black undershirt with a smile of excitement on his face. He would have loved the opportunity to scale himself against Ryv at any point -- his desire to demonstrate himself to anyone who would pay him any attention was too strong. Surely, he'd impress him and the instructor!

Perhaps this youngling class would be more fun than he thought? His hand outstretched towards the wall, the force seizing and bringing a bokken to his hands. "It is a pleasure to be your opposition, Master Karis, sir." Kisaku said, bowing at the waist at a slight angle towards him. In his excitement, he hadn't a thought towards Auraya.

His goal was to prove himself, not to work well with her.

Ryv · Jan 19, 2021

Another interesting answer provided by Auraya earned a nod of approval from Ryv. Not only had she given an answer to Aaran's question, but she had to overcome the anxieties plaguing her to do it. He thought to speak up again, to praise her as he did Kisaku, but Aaran's natural aptitude for teaching shined at that moment. Neither of the students answered incorrectly while still showcasing a fundamental difference in perspective. Kisaku saw opportunity, where Auraya came to recognize the truth that so many overlooked. Shii-Cho was the beginning. Step one of a lifelong journey. He peered past Aaran from the front and shot the Padawan learner a thumbs up.

Zaavik's appearance surprised Ryv. The zeltron was the closest Ryv had to a little brother. Brought up in the order not long after the kiffar, Zaavik distinguished himself as one of the most trustworthy and skilled the New Jedi Order had to offer. Even with that in mind, Ryv knew his red-skinned companion struggled with responsibility even more than he did. Perhaps that would change with another relying on him to see them through such a pivotal time in the galaxy.

Ryv met Aaran's look with one of his own. He turned to the wall with an outstretched hand. Another of the bokken flew to the Jedi Knight, where he deftly plucked it from the air. He swirled in a delicate circle, the two blades weaving an intricate pattern around him. The individual motions didn't look all that difficult. It was in how he effortlessly maneuvered both weapons as if they were merely an extension of his body that set it apart from just another exercise.

"Here you are, Auraya," Ryv said while offering her the recently acquired blade. "I'm excited to see what you can manage with just the fundamentals. Folks can get pretty creative if they try."

He turned to Kisaku at the other Padawan's approach. "Ryv is fine, man. I appreciate the respect, and if it's something important to you, by all means, continue. I'm just a lot more relaxed about all this stuff than most folks realize. And if it means anything, I'm just as excited to get this chance to take you both on. I've read through your information, Kisaku. You've got a lot going for you. And Auraya, while you're a bit of an enigma, I have a feeling you'll manage to impress even yourself today."

Ryv took a step back and locked the bokken between his knees. He slid his familiar leather jacket from his shoulders, opting for the black tank-top beneath. For those unfamiliar with the Jedi Knight's career, this would be their first look at his left arm's cybernetic replacement. It started from his fingers and stretched all the way up to midway through his bicep. The other arm showcased an intricate tattoo that covered from wrist to shoulder. Multicolored wildflowers encircled his wrist and form arm, blending into an explosion of color centered around his elbow, bicep, and tricep. A closer look revealed a depiction of a star going supernova before fading into black and gray artwork that continued well into his chest. Scars crisscrossed the arm, breaking the piece into portioned segments around each muscle.

"Alrighty," he returned the bow to Kisaku, a second offered to Auraya immediately after. "Hope you guys are ready. I'm not pullin' any punches here."

Seasoned Adventurers:

Aaran Tafo |

Zaavik Perl
Wet Behind the Ears: Auraya Irath-Ur |

Auraya Irath-Ur · Jan 19, 2021

Auraya listened oh so intently as Aaran began to speak his response, further expanding upon what the two students had said and emphasizing the notion that there were plenty of different ways to view one thing. She willed her brain to act like a sponge, to soak in as much information as she possibly could so that she might recall it again once the session had ended. Her fingers itched, wanting nothing more than to clutch at a datapad and confer the information unto it. Every little bit helped, right?

She had lifted her head back up somewhere in the middle of his speech, allowing her gaze to fall upon him respectfully as he spoke. There would be nothing to learn by staring at ones feet, from holding back and allowing ones fears to conquer. As long as she could ignore Zaavik she'd be fine... But the crinkling of foil was so adamant in her ears that she felt certain she'd fail in even that simple task.

Inhale, exhale. Let it flow over her, like water. Focus on the task at hand, not the distractions.

Holoprojectors swiftly replaced such sounds, whirring as they brought into existence a sparring ring where Ryv stood. It took Auraya a moment to understand the implications of their instructors words, even when he bid them to step forward she remained hesitantly in place until her fellow Padawan bounded on ahead. She swallowed a gulp that felt all too audible and stepped around the youngling who had been stood in front of her, lightly patting their shoulder as she did so. Hoping that the distraction might eradicate the rising nerves.

She closed her eyes for a few paces, though somehow remarkably managed to not walk into anyone, this time willing herself out of existence instead of her Master. Oh to be a mere fly on the wall now, or a practitioner of so scarce an ability as Art of the Small, through which she might all but disappear.

But she was none of these things. She was Auraya the Simple, and she remained both present and visible.

When Ryv offered her one of the two swords he had been briefly demonstrating with, she dipped her body into a low bow of respect and took it with a shaky hand that could not be tamed. "Thank you, Master Karis," she responded, with a voice that was far stronger than she felt. She took one step back after, to put some distance between them, lining herself up beside Kisaku. "Good luck," she whispered to her side.

From within the depths of her mind she drew upon the positioning she had been taught and practiced more times than she could count, falling into the opening stance of Shii-Cho. She allowed her feet to situate themselves a natural space apart, providing good stability and balance to her core without debilitating her maneuverability. Knees bent just a touch, body eased out of the stiffness she had previously been exhibiting.

She inhaled a slow breath, steeling her nerves, and in a quick motion looked first to her side, in order to anticipate her fellow Padawan's initial plan, and then across to Ryv. Poised, waiting for any sign that he was about to pounce... Waiting for their instructor to give the signal. All while her stomach turned somersaults and sent nausea squirming through her body.

Zaavik Perl · Jan 21, 2021

CORUSCANT // JEDI TEMPLE

PADAWAN
Auraya Irath-Ur
THE BOYS

Kisaku Oroken

Ryv

Aaran Tafo

A short breeze surfed the low surface of the floor, pushed away as Zaavik gingerly floated upward to plant himself on a ledge. He sat in the shadow of a bas-relief situated in an alcove beneath indentation and exterior window. Steamy warmth billowed and tumbled from the open end of his handheld meal, curling into nothing within the stagnant interior air. 

The heels of his boots thudded against the wall as his feet swung in a leisurely sway. Elbows dug into the flesh above either knee, biceps bracing to support a forward slouch. Soft blades of violet hanging down into his face, he peered intently beyond their fibrous veil. He didn't expect much of a show in a class for Padawans, but at the very least, it was worth observing Raya's capabilities. 

She'd asked, and he'd oblige, even if he wasn't making the best impression. Speaking of his learner, they'd catch glances at some point during Aaran and Ryv speaking. A lax thumbs-up was offered, face betraying the encouragement with stone-faced chewing. But, it wasn't nothing. Practically still strangers, and this was probably the single most encouraging gesture he'd ever offered up so far. 

Worth something, then?

Aaran Tafo · Jan 23, 2021

If nothing else, Kisaku was enthusiastic about the whole affair. Confidence was one thing, recklessness was another. And the Miralukan seemed to straddle the thin line between the two. But the Padawan's confidence was not unearned. The security footage that he had been reviewing as the class was being set up did demonstrate to Aaran that Kisaku did have a fairly good grasp of how to handle a lightsaber.

Granted, he would need to step up his game a little bit when it came to handling blaster bolts from multiple directions. Maybe after the class he'd direct him to some good training Holocrons for Soresu. It was in Aaran's opinion that anyone could benefit from taking some lessons in the Resilience Form. Stepping to the edge of the ring, he cast a critical eye on the more eager of the Padawan present. No obvious flaws in the Miralukan's opening stance. No anxiety or hesitation. In terms of technical skill, he would do well enough.

Turning his attention to the other Padawan. The slightest exhalation of amusement came from his nose. It seemed that Auraya had the opposite problem. She had the right attitude of being determined and taking this training exercise seriously. But while her partner had confidence to spare. She had barely enough for herself. Reaching out with the practice sword in his hand. Aaran would gently nudge the bottom of Auraya's blade up a few inches. "Make sure you don’t let the blade dip too much. Ryv kept making the same mistake when he was still a Padawan." A dig at his old friend? Certainly. But also, reassurance to the less confident of the pair. Everyone started somewhere, and even the best of the Jedi struggled to get where they are now.

Pausing for a moment, Aaran's hand would raise, calling upon the Force. A nearby potted plant would shake for a moment before soil began to rise from the bowl, a large handful of it that began to slowly be sprinkled around the arena itself. Denoting a physical line for Kisaku to be able to see.

It was foolish of him to not consider it at first. But then again, he had been spending time with another Miralukan's who's ability to see through the Force would put most Masters to shame. It was understandable that Kisaku had not progressed to the point where he could discern things such as holograms.

"Now. This is a demonstration for the younglings. But I'd also like to get an assessment of where you both stand." He said, stepping back from the ring. "So, the rules are simple. You both have five minutes to each land a solid blow on Ryv. While he has to either survive or knock just one of you out of the ring."

Making sure that both Padawans acknowledged what they had to do, he would tap the practice sword once against the floor.

"Begin!"

Ryv |

Kisaku Oroken | Auraya Irath-Ur |

Aaran Tafo Auraya Irath-Ur

Kisaku Oroken · Jan 23, 2021

Zaavik Perl

Wait, the spar would end if Ryv just knocked one of them out of the ring? Kisaku seemed a bit alarmed at this, eyebrows raising. He quickly took stock of his partner after having seen her be corrected by Aaran in the most basic of principles (Keep your blade contesting the center line at all times) he was filled with anxiety. Things might end before they even began! Of course there were exceptions to the principle and there were enough of them, but closely examining her he didn't think that she was doing it intentionally. Unless she was a master of baiting her opponents in with seemingly poor technique. Again, he didn't think that was the case.

He nodded slowly, shifting over a bit to be closer to Auraya. Displaying in a non-verbal manner his concern over protecting his partner.

If for no other reason than to prevent the spar from ending prematurely. After all, he was being assessed here? Did that mean there were grades involved? He was being graded in a youngling class! If he failed he wouldn't be able to bear the shame. His thoughts were interrupted by the rap of the training sword against the floor.

Instantly he sprung to action with a rather aggressive and risky technique. Rather than merely stepping forward off-line to Ryv's weak side he took a great lunge there. The movement was aimed towards violence of action and distance covered. The goal was to open an angle to beat the back of Ryv's practice blade to send it towards the ground. Doing so would open Ryv's guard for him to redirect the rounded 'blade' at a strike at Ryv's collarbone with the back side.

It was risky because it was an instant total commitment - not quite all or nothing, but a lunge like that when properly performed wasn't something you could just stop prematurely mid-step. He was all-in from the start.

Auraya Irath-Ur · Jan 23, 2021

If the girl was at all embarrassed by having her faults called out in such a manner, she did not display it outwardly. She nodded once, corrected her stance under the instructor's gaze and guidance, and tried to set the angle to memory. Willing her muscles to retain the information. She inhaled a slow breath, and watched as the dirt made its way through the air to encircle the ring. For a moment she displayed subtle confusion...

And then that moment passed. Of course, her fellow Padawan needed a way to know where the ring began and ended. She had never considered the fact that they were unable to sense projections the way they could the rest of the world. It was merely light, after all. Truth be told, it was a rather humbling realization. Could he see the blade of his lightsaber, then? How far did it go? It was a perplexing thought, and one which did not belong in the middle of a spar.

Another slow breath, punctuated by a pronounced exhale. Thoughts banished to the back of her mind. She nodded once to the instructions they were given, and did her best to ignore the way in which her fellow student seemed to view her as the weakest link. He was correct, of course, but that didn't mean she wanted to be called on it before she'd even been given a chance to prove herself.

When the practice sword tapped against the floor, Auraya took stock of the situation. Kisaku, it would seem, took no time at all in lunging forward, committing whole heartedly to a rushed attack. Had she been the one on the other side of him it would no doubt have worked wonders to catch her off guard. She didn't even have the time to consider whether or not his attempts worked, did not have the time to really contemplate what he had done at all. It happened in a split second, and she was left in his dust.

Her brain whirred into action all the same, once it caught up with the fact that he had moved. She slid forward, fleet of foot, and tried to capitalize on the distraction he had provided. It was easier said than done, of course, there were three bodies in the ring after all, one of which she was actively trying to avoid contact with. Though she already perceived the fact that her strike would not land, she aimed for his stronger side (not that she knew it was the stronger, it simply happened to be the area where Kisaku had failed to strike), only unlike her fellow she targeted his leg with a fairly wide and imprecise swipe of her blade.

Her technique was definitely off, though she had done something and that was more than she had expected herself to do.

All thoughts of failure and disappointment were left on the wayside. For once she allowed herself to live in the moment, flowing through the actions of herself and the other two in the ring, alert only insofar as their actions. The rest of the class... well, that faded away.