First Reply spring arrives after winter

[Ariana Du Couteau]

Ariana Du Couteau, Jedi Padawan
Location: New Cov Jedi Temple, Temple Hall
Outfit (No Right Arm/Sleeve Tied)

Ariana breathed, at first evenly but then each breath after was faster than the last. Her fist tightened until the knuckles turned white and several moments after Ariana finally began to slow her breathing. Nearly timed perfectly with her shuttle landing but it hardly eased Ariana’s nerves, if at all it began to reverse her effort. Again she forced herself calm, breathing slower and her left hand unclenched so she could gently rub her head.

Several long moments and Ariana found her strength to stand up and leave her shuttle to head towards the New Cov Temple. Her eyes looked around and took in the strangeness of it all, such a peaceful Jedi Temple hidden deep within such dangerous jungles. Like we’re in some sort of eye of the storm. Ariana steeled herself and walked into the main hall of the Temple, it was quiet but she could sense other Jedi nearby. It was foolish for Ariana to believe it would be nearly empty on any Jedi Temple, but she had hoped for her sake that she would need to greet as few people as possible. While it was trained for years to act noble and regal, the young Du Couteau heir could only manage it for so long. Especially now.

Ariana continued to walk towards the back of the Temple, the Halls of Healing were located back there but as she approached the winding stair-case something made her stop. She couldn’t take a single step down the stairs, her breathing was even but try as she might Ariana found herself unable. Come on, fall forward then. Tightly clenching her eyes shut, Ariana opened them and turned around to head elsewhere in the Temple. Perhaps it was mistake to even try, especially without first clearing out her mind, it was far easier to simply avoid and ignore everything. Maybe it still is simpler to just leave and figure everything out later.

The Serenity Springs were right behind me. It was quite clear she couldn’t simply will herself to to fix her issues, but it seemed she could at least mediate or something or the rather. A cruel joke that Ariana found herself as the punch-line, she knew what she needed to do but simply was unable to bring herself to do anything about it. The battle on Teta was so long ago and. . . that too was even longer. . . Ariana kept down her sadness for the moment, she still had an appearance to uphold and kept her smile as she saw a pair of Jedi leave the Springs. They were deep in conversation, fortunately for Ariana she wouldn't have to greet every Jedi she came across in her usual formal manner.
​

 

[Junko Ike]

Ariana Du Couteau

The temple on New Cov was beautiful as she moved. The time meeting with the senator long passed and she could see the fruits of some of their trade deal when the ship had arrived. The advisors and equipmnent like the star defenders were one thing but she hadn't known about the temple when she was meeting with the senator. It had only come up and a chance to visit and see what had been done with it was.... fun. The walkways leading to the jedi temple were a good indication as she walked through them wearing the simple jedi Princess kimono she had. Black with red trim and a triple hollycock leaf pattern on it.

Her neck and face covered in the Solari Shiroi make up the jedi had designed for her. With the white of it gleaming as small blue highlights were underneath for a more ethereal glow. Darkened eyes like pools of dark honey and her hair pulled back over her shoulders in a curtain down to her ankles. SMall beads of kyber shaped into small bells that jingled as she walked with her Hair Piece making the look of bangs. Her hands in front of herself as the sash of her belt held her lightsaber the White Lotus. The gleaming of the white carapace from a gaping spider queen. THe curve of the hilt showing the design made for dueling and on the opposite side a pouch secured on the outside.


She had her normal equipment and there was more to the robes then many others could see or even notice... but it was meant to inspire a look of regal beauty. SInce she had never joined the ranks of the new jedi order... they barely ever set foot on Atrisia or seemed to care about them. THeir own senator whom had mostly vanished hadn't even come to the planet staying on COruscant all of the time. So why come now? Well to her it was simple enough. To observe, the Wukong were growing and like the green jedi of Corellia they were homegrown and protected Atrisia so all she needed to do was learn what other temples did.

Her walking on the paths and among the people got a few glances... the spectacle of Atrisian nobles could be something while she had her jade robed Otachi around her. Their faces concealed under the hoods. Equal in size and shape to her as they were trained to body double. THeir Sabers on their hips as well giving the look of a jedi entourage to the princess. She head debated bringing Xīfāng but a large Atrisian tiger in the halls of the temple might be a little much no matter how well trained and a good boy he was. HEr guest was also there a rare sight offworld... a Keisei who had been hired to come this far out and normally it would have been denied but news that the princess was going as let their order accept.

Two guards there to escort the woman in equally as ornate robes. Her make up streaked with defining reds and her black hair as it had streaks of reds, silvers and blues. Blended into it with ribbons tying it into sections. The smaller Atrisian moved towards the springs and looked around as she walked seeing some jedi and greeting them with a bow. THe Handmaidens following suit, the Keisei mirroring but also checking on what they had around all of them. "This temple is beautiful princess, I can see why The Prince wanted to make a deal with this world." Junko turned her head with a small smile. "That and he knows how best to choose allies usually. I haven't heard from the senator for quite sometime."

 

[Ariana Du Couteau]

Ariana Du Couteau, Jedi Padawan
Location: New Cov Jedi Temple, Temple Hall
Outfit (No Right Arm/Sleeve Tied)

Ariana glanced around the Springs, there were others entering the area and she recognized the style of outfits as Atrisian. A rather unique style often found among many Nobles, Dad even hired a tailor from Atrisia. . . wait, focus Ari. Ariana refocused herself to the task at hand, it wasn’t at all difficult to mediate especially when inside a place like the Serenity Springs. But Ariana had found a rather unfortunate talent to constantly distract herself and procrastinate for her important duties.

She found a spot that offered a rhythmic sound of flowing waterfalls slowly cascading down into a small pool. Ariana sat and got into her standard mediation pose, her eyes closed and left hand gently placed on her lap. She knew how to focus on the Force, her own talent of Convection and the Bakuuni Hand technique demanded quite the concentration of the Force. But that was rather straightforward as Ariana had an end goal for the Force, her limbs getting ready for combat. Meditation feels far too open ended, the Force flows anywhere and everywhere, like a river pulling me into areas I’d rather not explore. Ariana knew that was the point, but she still felt justified to complain about the sensation.

Concentrating, Ariana challenged herself to swim against the currents of the Force this time and simply swim with the flow of water. Even if it leads me down a waterfall. . . The thought, though made to be comical, made her a tad apprehensive as she listened to the waterfall inside the room. Find Inner peace. . . Inner peace. . . . peace. Her breathing began to slow and lengthen, Ariana fought against the urge to hold-on and simply allowed herself to see what the Force wished her to witness.
​

|| Junko Ike ||​

 

[Junko Ike]

Ariana Du Couteau

The short walk was pleasant... the Keisei taking it all in and Junko motioned her off with one of the handmaidens while she remained in the garden. There was another here meditating which was a little peaceful. SHe motioned them off and found a place she would be able to sit and meditate. Allowing the one handmaiden with her to follow and stay at the distance for rules more then safety. Her feet stopping while she slid down into a sitting position tucking her knees under her. THe kimono concealing her feet and her hair going down her back. The small jingle of the bells there for a moment. The faint glow of the makeup in the presence of those in tune with the lightside of the force.

The sounds of the waterfall were peaceful and reminded her of home and the Agora temple. THe kyber forest and fruit trees that grew with crystals on them and the immortal plums.... it was all a nice thing as she breathed in softly and held it for a moment... allowed herself to feel the force in her lungs before exhaling it with a little sound that was drowned out by the waterfall and her senses expanded outwards. Expansion and contraction of the force with her breathing.. her muscles relaxing and allowing her to sink deeper and deeper into the current of the force and meditative state around the two of them sitting there.

 

[Ariana Du Couteau]

Ariana Du Couteau, Jedi Padawan
Location: New Cov Jedi Temple, Temple Hall
Outfit (No Right Arm/Sleeve Tied)

Ariana felt herself bobbing strangely, weightless and within her own mind, exploring what the Force wanted to show. It felt quite serene, the peaceful waves gently moving Ariana into a darkened area, thoughts of insecurities and fear began to threaten her peace. Like a slightly larger wave breaking against her head, barely managing to catch enough air before finding her head above water again. I know I’m more capable than before, I’m not worried about my skills or talents. . . aren’t I? Confidence was a tricky thing to hold unto, Ariana never held onto doubt for long, even when she fought against strong opponents.

It was getting trickier but Ariana kept her breathing steady, eyes closed, even after her slight hiccup. She flowed deeper into her mind, darker and light flashing across several thoughts made Ariana unsure of her own safety momentarily. This time she felt as if the waves were larger and far more aggressive, finding her breath ever harder with each passing moment. Ariana found herself pushing against and in some way retreating away to calmer areas within herself. Acceptance isn’t the same as avoidance or even forgetfulness.

With a few more unsteady breaths, Ariana opened her eyes and gently caressed her forehead. And another one to chalk on the slightly unsuccessful board, what does that make? Three different Jedi Temples? Ariana almost allowed herself to sigh heavily, a rather undignified look to be sure, instead she stood back up. She figured she could sigh plenty once inside the confines of her room within the shuttle. Best not disturb anybody else, a rudeness that would stain my family name. Appearances, years of noble training steadied Ariana’s legs as she began to head out of the springs.

I mean, from what Knight Kai'el said, he made it sound as if we had hundreds of Temples I could visit. . . . can't possibly fumble through all of them.
​

|| Junko Ike ||​

 

[Junko Ike]

Ariana Du Couteau

She felt it for a moment when the woman shifted and raised her head. Looking at her and offering a bow. "I hope I didn't disturb your meditations padawan." She offered a small movement and stood up more demure in her gestures while she slid hands in front of herself and clasped her hands together at a sigh of contrition. "I was admiring the beauty of the temple here.. much different then when I was in the capital." Her smile came and she moved around taking in the waterfall before turning and adjusting her hair over her shoulder more. "I am Junko, from the royal house of Atrisia and the Agora temple of the Wukong jedi.."

 

[Ariana Du Couteau]

Ariana Du Couteau, Jedi Padawan
Location: New Cov Jedi Temple, Temple Hall
Outfit (No Right Arm/Sleeve Tied)

Ariana quickly turned around, suppressing a surprised look she kept her unsteady smile as one of the occupants began to talk. Ah. It was unexpected, Ariana had hoped she could manage a seamless entry and exit from the Temple. Her noble family training instinctually kicked in and bowed in response to the lady’s introduction. Atrisian Royalty? Her noble house knowledge outside of Teta was frightfully limited, unlike her brother who could probably list every major Noble House in the Alliance.

“My name is Ariana Du Couteau, Jedi Padawan.” Ariana greeted, she straightened herself quickly and kept a steady expression, “-N-no! You didn’t disturb my meditation Lady Master Jedi Junko. I-I apologize if you feel differently.” She quickly responded, her tongue seemed to struggle to find the right honorifics but Ariana hoped she chose correctly. Appearances always matter, remember Ari. Ariana though couldn’t believe her luck with not just greeting another Jedi, but a Royal family member of another Alliance planet. First impressions matter a lot.
​

|| Junko Ike ||​

 

[Junko Ike]

Ariana Du Couteau

SHe looked up at her the woman was tall... taller then most Atrisians would be. SHe offered a small smile while she walked. "Well that is good news and Couteau... that name is familiar to me. I believe Shoma mentioned them when he returned to Atrisia once. A family on Empress Teta." She capped a small finger to her chin and pulled it away for a moment with a smile on her face. She stood there bringing her hand down and clasping them in front of herself. "Just Junko... Lady Master Jedi is kind of a mouthful to say each time." SHe offered a small smile before walking a little more and looking at the waterfall. "This temple is beautiful and peaceful. I can see why you would choose this area to meditate. Are there more scenic areas within?"

 

[Ariana Du Couteau]

Ariana Du Couteau, Jedi Padawan
Location: New Cov Jedi Temple, Temple Hall
Outfit (No Right Arm/Sleeve Tied)

“Y-yes! I am from Empress Teta, my brother is the current Senator of Teta there.” Ariana confirmed, she kept up her smile and steadied her left hand against the curve of her back. “Of course, Junko.” She responded, it was quite a strange thing to speak someone’s first name so informally. Especially someone from another noble household. But Ariana was a quick learner, she wouldn’t allow herself to behave rudely once given proper information.

“Several Jedi mentioned how lovely the gardens were, just on the other side of the main Temple grounds. Right next to them are the larger waterfalls and a few caves to explore.” Ariana answered, most Temples keep a garden or two, it’s actually harder to find a Jedi Temple without one.

“And yes, I’ve been told that the Jedi Order has many Temples spread across the Alliance. It’d be a shame if I don’t visit all of them and just remain on Coruscant.” She explained, in spite of her own difficulty meditating. But Ariana figured it mattered little if she was competent enough to meditate to visit another Jedi Temple.
​

|| Junko Ike ||​

 

[Junko Ike]

Ariana Du Couteau

She offered a grin and a look while listening. MOre waterfalls was welcoming and well the Alliance had plenty of temples. She knew they had a few others and that was before you even went to Coruscant which was grand and massive. "Well perhaps one to show me around. I haven't been outside of Atrisia in years unless it was official business." She said it with a smile on her face while walking. "Our Agora temple doesn't have this beauty but it is built over a kyber forest. The fruits developing partially formed crystals on them." She looked at the girl again. "Though I am wondering if you have explored the caves?" She moved offering the space next to her so they would be able to move around and see. "So much here I could use a guide and you can tell me all about yourself."

 

[Ariana Du Couteau]

Ariana Du Couteau, Jedi Padawan
Location: New Cov Jedi Temple, Temple Hall
Outfit (No Right Arm/Sleeve Tied)

Ariana moved carefully alongside Junko, it was a bit of a strange request but Ariana figured it was best to go along. She listened and nodded along, it was a peculiar thing to have living plants grow fruits with crystals on them. Sounds rather annoying to eat if you’re worried about cracking a tooth. But Ariana had seen plenty of plants whose value were determined by other things than their fruits. A lightsaber using crystals from a fruit sounds like an interesting saber.

“I am rather unfamiliar with the caverns here, so I would suggest an experienced guide for that. . .” Ariana explained, “-But the gardens are far easier to find and enjoy.” She added as she began to walk towards the back exit of the Temple that led to the gardens.

Ariana placed a single finger on her chin to consider Junko’s next request of knowing a bit more of herself, “I joined the Order rather early in my life and apart from a small skirmish with both the Maw and Imperial Order early on, the majority of my time here in the Order has been dedicated to my studies.” Ariana spoke, her hand returning to behind her back as she kept walking. I guess I do have a rather simple story, maybe I really don’t have an excuse for not writing in my journal.
​

|| Junko Ike ||​

 

[Junko Ike]

Ariana Du Couteau

"Perhaps later I will find a guide, we came here cause of our previous interaction with the senator but she seems to have gone quiet so after here we'll likely head over to check." A good benefit was they had developed the New Dov defenders which weren't mobilized for attack and soldiers were not in their new armor but still had the military advisors they had sent over so... she would have to find the time. "ANd your studies are important but remember to always look for the practical experience. I learned more traveling and meeting the people then I did in a temple... that just helped me refine some of my skills that I trained up in the field... just don't crash on Dathomir and get taken in by witches. Not as fun as it might sound."

 

[Ariana Du Couteau]

Ariana Du Couteau, Jedi Padawan
Location: New Cov Jedi Temple, Temple Hall
Outfit (No Right Arm/Sleeve Tied)

Ariana smiled as they walked outside the Temple, the gardens not too far away as she could already see them from a distance. The weather looked clear, but much of the area was shaded by the many trees that covered the planet. Truly this place would have been difficult to find if Ariana needed to brave the jungles to find the entrance.

“I promise to do my best in avoiding any crash landing into Dathomir.” Ariana responded, she was thankful that much of her own ‘practical’ experience came when she had plenty of Alliance support. “-Perhaps I’ll stumble into an adventure during one of my travels to the many Temples located around Alliance space. . .” She added, her voice carrying off as she remembered stories told by other Knights and Masters. Even the most mundane missions can lead to rather dangerous or ridiculous adventures.

“But thankfully the many Jedi I have come across have been generally courteous and understanding. I can’t see that changing if you wish for a more experienced guide here in this Temple.”
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|| Junko Ike ||​

 

[Junko Ike]

Ariana Du Couteau

"An experienced guide would tell me a lot, specifically what they believe I should know. You tell me what you know and like. It is a better impression." She said it and offered a nod of her head for the compliment. Guides were alright but honest opinions were always good. "And Alliance space has some good ones but don't discount the other jedi temples outside of it. THey might offer more then you know. I know the Ahch-To temple has some of the best in terms of artisans and researchers right now, the extragalactic temples of dawn and avalonis or even the hidden like Millinar and Tanalorr. The economic circles temple has vast vaults under it filled with artifacts and objects used to self fund orders so they do not have conflicting interests with governmental bodies."

 

[Ariana Du Couteau]

Ariana Du Couteau, Jedi Padawan
Location: New Cov Jedi Temple, Temple Hall
Outfit (No Right Arm/Sleeve Tied)

“Of course, I’ll take that into consideration for my next travel plans,” Ariana commented, in truth she hadn’t spent much time out of Alliance space. Even on those rare occasions there was always a heavy Alliance presence nearby to assist and come to her aid. While she wasn’t one to shy away from danger, Ariana knew the difference between reckless and courageous behavior.

“My next location I’ve made plans for is to visit the Green Jedi Temples on Corellia; despite being so close to the rest of the Core, Corellia is quite distinct and unique.” Ariana commented, the Core systems were a more familiar territory of space that she felt comfortable traveling.

The gardens around them were quite exquisite, Ariana looked around as she noticed the delicate work several Jedi were conducting to keep the gardens as beautiful as they were. The waterfall wasn’t too far off, and even at their distance Ariana could hear its distant sound of water cascading downwards.

“The caverns aren’t too far away, but unfortunately on that front my impressions are worth very little.” Ariana explained with a smile and shrug. She wasn’t one to belittle herself, but it was a truth, all her experiences with caves had been with large groups or in the company of Jedi Masters or Knights. Never someone leading or acting as a guide.

“Well if you’re planning to wait for your Senator, I do believe you’ve chosen an excellent place to do so,” Ariana added, her left hand pressing against her back, “-If you don’t mind I shall take my leave, it is time I head back to Coruscant. A pleasure and an honour meeting you Junko,” Ariana bowed as she said her goodbye.
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|| Junko Ike ||​

 

[Junko Ike]

Ariana Du Couteau

Listening to her the jedi master gave a nod of her head. "As you wish." THe departing padawan would be able to go as Junko stood there with her handmaidens and the jade robed woman conversed in lower voices with a small smile on her lips. "That was rather fun, should we see the caves?" Junko shook her head. "Maybe later, she was not wrong we should find out what we can about senator Liin and what happened. It seems a shame that she went through all of that work with Shoma only for the efforts to get new equipment and trade deals gone but we are here for now... just relax and meditate while our charge visits."