Test Your Might

[Akhilleus]

[SIZE=10pt]Stars blurring into existence the Silver Sanctum shuttle dropped out of hyperspace just above the planet Lothal. Yawning Nikias sat down in the pilot’s seat stretching out[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] he had decided to take a small nap on the flight to the planet due to how long it took the ship to reach it. Eyes still heavy from sleep Nikias looked out the viewport down at the planet Lothal[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] even from space it looked like a beautiful planet. The water and land formations could easily be seen. Flicking on the com Nikias called out to his only occupant “We’ve made it to Lothal.” Quickly flicking the com back off Nikias released another yawn that would’ve made a wookie proud. He and Valae Kitra had been told about a jedi temple that was located on the planet[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] however what Nikias truly cared about were the Muntuur stones that had been talked about. Stones that many jedi used to train and elevate their skills in telekinesis. For Nikias he saw it as something as a personal challenge[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] but he had no clue why Valae was coming. Probably for similar reasons. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]Flying the Silver Sanctum shuttle through the atmosphere of the planet Lothal[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Nikias felt the ship jolt slightly from the process of entry. Thankfully the quality of the shuttle and other tools that the Silver Sanctum used were always up to par. Flying over the landscape Nikias saw that while there was plenty of water on the planet there were still incredibly large deserts[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] and the coordinates that told him where to land pointed directly into the center of it where even from a distance he could see a large spire of stone that was supposedly the jedi temple. Bringing a ship in for a landing a few meters away from the main location Nikias stepped out the cockpit looking for his fellow jedi. He and Valae Kitra had been on an exploration to a planet together with other Silver Sanctum padawans, and had even trained together in the past. nikias considered her a friendly person and liked associating with her but even after all of that still knew so little.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt][member="Valae Kitra"][/SIZE]

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

Valae’s eyes snapped open at the sound of Nikias on the com; she had taken the opportunity to have a nap before arriving on Lothal. She quickly stood from the small cot and re-arranged her robes to make herself more presentable before stepping out of the bunk. Her dark eyes were still heavy from being roused from sleep so suddenly, but there was a glint of excitement in her gaze. The female padawan lowered herself into the co-pilot’s chair next to Nikias, and took a look out the viewport. It was quite a stunning sight, and she hoped that perhaps they would have time to explore the sprawling prairies and take in the landscapes while they were planetside. However, Valae knew that they had not come to Lothal for sight-seeing.

Today she was happy to be traveling with Nikias, hoping to count him as a new friend after this journey. As it stood, they had met during a group outing, and had even worked out together in the gym at the Silver Temple... but she found that she didn’t actually know him very well. Based on what she knew of him so far, he had no shortage of brawn, but seemed to be a pleasant person to be around. From their previous outing, she had learned that he was a Prince, a subject that she would no doubt ask about... for she was very curious. It was a role far in contrast to her humble beginnings as a salvager. She was also looking forward to visiting the Jedi Temple, one that had been famed due to the presence of the Muntuur stones. Ever since Master Xantha had mentioned them, she had become very intrigued.

The pair shared a bit of silence as the shuttle came in to land, and Valae sat with a small smile. Her eyes shifted towards her reflection in the viewport and her eyes went a bit wide. Much to her dismay, her brown hair was an utter mess, and she attempted to comb it back down with her fingers. She turned to see that the pilot’s chair was now empty, and she followed Nikias out of the cockpit and towards the exit. As the ramp lowered, she started to walk out at a leisurely pace.

“This should be interesting!” She smiled to her companion.

[member="Nikias"]

 

[Akhilleus]

[SIZE=10pt]Before Valae had walked out of the ship Nikias was wracking his brain on how to deal with the silence that had hung between him and Valae. he honestly didn't know much about the other jedi besides she had been a part of the Sanctum before him. He didn't even know[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] her customs. It was off putting to Nikias when he didn't know much about others that he dealt with[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] it made him feel as though he was stuck up. Nikias himself found it much harder to start a conversation with Valae partially because others usually talked to her or he just hadn't found the chance to strike up a conversation. That will soon change. Nikias thought to himself as he heard footsteps coming from behind him. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=10pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=10pt]"Yes I've never been to this temple before, [/SIZE][SIZE=10pt]have you?" Nikias asked as he raised his hand shielding his eyes from the incredibly bright Lothal sun that beat down on his bare torso. Still even after all his time in the Silver Sanctum[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Nikias hadn't worn the robes that had been provided to him. They were just far to itchy and concealing for him to get used to. Coming from a race of warriors[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt], [/SIZE][SIZE=10pt]Nikias was more than used to wearing large and heavy armor[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] but outside of it he preferred to give his body a rest from the stresses of other clothing. Especially when he saw the type of clothing that the rest of the galaxy usually wore. Their form fitting suits or their lax jackets and shirts were just too much for Nikias to deal with. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=10pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=10pt]“I remember once before overhearing you say that you were from a planet called Tatooine,[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] is it anything like this world?” Nikias asked nodding his head to the dessert. While there was plenty of water and other biomes on Lothal he had no clue about Valae’s own planet. Or many in the galaxy. Though this was the perfect way for him to get to know more about her.[/SIZE]

[member="Valae Kitra"]

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

The shining sun felt wonderful, and it lifted the padawan’s mood even more. She found her eyes traveling towards the bare torso of Nikias, finding that the sun was highlighting his muscular form. He looked much like a hero from a HoloDrama, and she blinked a few times when she heard him speak. Valae’s dark eyes shifted away quickly, and she cast her head towards her feet for a moment, hoping that he didn’t see the very light flush upon her face. She wouldn’t complain about being with a shirtless man, but it was a bit... distracting. “I haven’t been to the temple before either.” She answered, letting her gaze move in the direction of their destination.

“If you want to know what Tatooine is like...” She looked towards the desert, and she waved her hand towards the horizon. “Just imagine sand... as far as you can see.” Valae’s tone was light and she chuckled a few times.

“There are also two suns on Tatooine, it can be a pretty harsh place to live.” She said in a tone that became heavier. “If the Grandmaster hadn’t brought me to Voss, I’d probably still be landlocked there and working at the Cantina.” There was a small flicker of a smile, for she was most grateful for Thurion; he had truly saved her. It was common knowledge that Valae was the Grandmaster’s padawan, but few knew the details about how the two had met.

“He found me the night that my father died.” She found the words spilling forth before she could stop them. Thurion and his astromech droid had the only other witnesses to the burial of Atticus Kitra. From that moment on, Valae had come to view the Grandmaster as something of a surrogate father figure. Remembering that night had cast a bit of a damper on Valae’s cheerful mood, and she threw on a smile to keep the conversation from falling back into silence. It was time to move on to a different subject...

“You’re really a prince?” She perked her brows. “I don’t think I’ve ever met royalty before.”

[member="Nikias"]

 

[Akhilleus]

[SIZE=10pt]Coming from a royal family Nikias put alot of stock when talking to others and would look into their eyes to show his respect to them. It was truly the way he'd been raised and how he always conducted conversations but when he turned to look at Valae he saw her eyes staring at the ground. Tilting his head to the side Nikias examined her and the innocent brown eyes that looked at her feet. He'd seen Valae plenty of times but only now with the way the sunlight caught her hair and tan skin did he realize just how gorgeous the young woman was. The way her brown hair shined in the light. She carried more of traits of his own people than even he did. "At least we won't have to deal with any sith or insane force users." Nikias said a sigh of relief leaving him. The last time he'd been to a jedi temple he'd been attacked by an insane Nightwitch and slammed through a pillar of stone.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]Following Valae's gaze Nikias stared out to the dessert frowning slightly. "I don't think I'd like the sounds of that planet to much... Though I'm sorry to hear that someone as kind as you had to live on such a harsh planet and for your loss." Nikias said with a bow[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] he himself knew plenty of loss in his life. Though he had yet to lose a parent to death[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] he couldn't even imagine how Valae felt during that time. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]"It’s good that he brought you to the Silver Sanctum,[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] you deserve a life thats not harsh or painful. Plus[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] to be apprenticed to the Grandmaster is a big honor. How does it feel being apprenticed to Thurion? I'd think it must be rough to be in his shadow?" Nikias asked his tone now holding any condescension but simple curiosity. As he himself hadn't been able to find a master at the temple to train him due to his deficiencies in many aspects of the force. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]"Yes I am... I am now the first prince of my family. We lost my brother during the war and I was the next oldest." Nikias said this time looking away a bit of bitterness in his tone. "Trust me royalty is not all it’s cracked up to be." [/SIZE]

[member="Valae Kitra"]

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

“Master Heavenshield is very kind-hearted and patient with me.” Valae said with a soft smile. The Grandmaster was known for his saber skills, and she had heard many times that he was a formidable opponent in battle... but she was very grateful that Thurion recognized that her strong suit was not fighting. “He never pushes me too hard, and always encourages me.” Valae was fond of the whole Heavenshield family, especially young Theo; there was no doubt in her mind that he would grow up to be like his father.

Valae let her arms swing easily at her sides as she walked along, and she let her gaze travel towards Nikias again when he spoke about his family. The corners of her mouth pulled down into a slight frown when he mentioned losing his brother. It dawned on her that it must not have been easy to assume his brother’s role as first prince; many would likely have crumbled under the pressure and weight of responsibility. Valae didn’t handle stress well, and knew that she would have never survived in such a role. When Nikias turned his eyes away, Valae’s hand automatically reached out and patted him on the shoulder. “I’m sorry for your loss too.” She said, offering him a solemn nod.

For a few moments, Valae didn’t quite know what else to say, so she decided to steer the conversation back towards something easy and familiar.

“So... How do you like training at the Silver Temple?” Her voice was lighter again, and filled with curiosity.

Coming into life at the temple had been a bit of a culture shock for her, and she had been thankful to make some great friends when she arrived. Both of her closest friends had recently been knighted, and now she rarely saw them, but figured that they were off doing good work for the Sanctum.

[member="Nikias"]

 

[Akhilleus]

[SIZE=10pt]Feeling a weight on his shoulder Nikias' hand raised up and fell over Valae's where his thumb rubbed over the back of her hand. It was very rare that he could talk to someone who had also loss someone like him. Especially to have lost their parent[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Valae currently understood how Nikias felt and it made him to feel better that he wasn't the only one with complicated emotions. "That means alot. Thank you for the understand" Nikias said as he lifted his hand. If he'd been able to stay like that for a bit longer he would've it had somehow felt so right to have Valae's hand on his shoulder. In Nikias' eyes his clinging to emotions and touch was one of his many flaws[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] he hadn't received such sentiments in his youth besides from his siblings and uncle. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]The mood changed along with the conversation as Nikias slowed down his pace so him and Valae would be walking at the same speed and would be able to enjoy their conversation a bit more. The tower of stone that harbored the jedi temple inside stood only a few more meters from them[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] it wouldn't take the two jedi much longer to reach it[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] but Nikias was sure they'd still probably have to search the innards of the temple for the Munturr stones. "Actually I've given up on attending classes at the temple." Nikias said with a smile. Many would assume doing such things was bad in a way as there were no true teachers for the students to learn from if they didn't but Nikias had come from a world where almost all combat had been done with lightsabers so there was no true need to focus on it in his eyes. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]"As you know I did have that small lesson with you and SJ about creating shields. There was a small lesson with Master Carrik in the multi-tasking aspects of telekinesis. Though most of my training has been from my battles with other Sith,[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] and from the holocron of Ganner Rhysode. Surprisingly he seemed to harbor the same inabilities I do and made up for it in telekinesis. I've been learning more from the holocron than the masters at the temple. That's not an insult to them in anyway." Nikias said ensuring that he wasn't misunderstood. He valued all knowledge that he could acquire[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] though he preferred the type he could use.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]"Whats your training like? I'd imagine it would be extreme with the Grandmaster?" [/SIZE]


[member="Valae Kitra"]

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

When Nikias’ hand had covered her own, she was slightly surprised at the gentle nature of his touch, as his thumb brushed against the back of her hand. In that moment the two shared a meaningful moment, both having a deep understanding for the grief and sadness of loss. Valae hadn’t attempted to withdraw her hand until she felt that his had lifted. It was very much her way to be consoling; she often felt the need to fuss over others, especially those she felt close to.

“Really?” Valae asked, when Nikias replied that he was no longer attending classes at the temple. “I wanted to stop going to the classes at first...” She admitted. Back home she had finished the required amount of education, which wasn’t very much... and she had started working for her father at their family scrap yard. She had never been a good student, and usually lacked the motivation to do well in her classes. Meeting Thurion had changed her for the better, and she had continued to attend the classes to keep from disappointing him. Valae could see that they were getting close to the temple, and also noticed that they were both continuing on at quite a leisurely pace... but there was no need to rush.

“You’ve already been in battles with Sith?” her jaw dropped slightly. “I can’t even imagine...” Valae shook her head, but she was very impressed. She knew little about Nikias background, aside from what he had just told her... but based on his physique she guessed that perhaps he had been fighting for a long time. The closest she’d ever been to a Sith was Knight Mullarus... and his darkness had only been the residual effects of his transition to the light.

“Training with the Grandmaster hasn’t been grueling...” She said, not that his training was easy by any means. “He lets me set the pace for our lessons, and never tries to overwhelm me. But I think that will all change as I improve though...” She chuckled.

[member="Nikias"]

 

[Akhilleus]

[SIZE=10pt]Nikias was caught off guard at the mention of Valae having wanted to give up on the classes at the temple[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] from what he had seen she was one of the more dedicated padawans in the temple. He would've thought if anyone would've always been dedicated to her studies it would be her. Though Nikias did feel odd when he attended the classes since he was in his twenties and Valae near his age. "Well what made you want to give up on the classes? Having seen you grasp so quickly onto creating a shield in the force is more than a bit impressive. You should be near knighthood and not have to take any of the classes soon anyways." Nikias said, and while he wasn't a Master or even a knight he had dealt with enough other force users to know where their skills sat[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] and Valae wasn't too far behind them.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]"Fighting the Sith is... Confusing at times,[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] they care more about the destruction of others than I ever imagined. That's why I fought them[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] but they also talk big game then in the end retreat from battle." Nikias said with a growl. There was nothing more that he hated than the Sith who went about taking the lives of innocents then in the end showed fear of the very same fate that they had dealt out. "They're sickening beings[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] but the only true defeat I had dealt to me by one of their number was a Sith Lord who ended up collapsing a building on me. I spent months in a bacta tank after that." Instead of being enraged about talking about his defeat Nikias had taken it as a lesson[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] and even accepted it. He had known he was outmatched during the fight[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] but he still hadn't backed down nor did he run in fear of his life. Nikias had been willing to accept whatever death came his way.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]Reaching the temple entrance Nikias looked in the dark temple. "I swear it seems like jedi never know what it means to install lightning." Nikias joked as he walked into the darkness of the temple and activated a glow rod that cast a dim glow around him and Valae. "Well how much further do you truly think you have to go when it comes to your abilities? I've seen you using them[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt], and you've been with the Sanctum longer than me. Maybe you're already at the point where your lessons have picked up in intensity but you're good enough to not notice it." [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]"Where in the blazes would they keep these stones?" looking at the numerous hallways that branched off in different directions Nikias was more than a bit confused on which to follow. There was no map for him to pull up on his datapad either. "Can you sense anything? Maybe that will lead us to them." Due to his own lacking skills in the sensing aspects of the force Nikias would be completely useless in finding the stones. [/SIZE]


[member="Valae Kitra"]

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

“Learning about the force was very new to me.” She started with a nod. “I never knew about it until that night when the Grandmaster found me.” Valae had been shocked to learn that she possessed anything that made her out of the ordinary. As far as she had been concerned, she was as average was one could get. “I had never been away from Tatooine before, my father was gone, and I didn’t know anyone around the temple...” Now that she was listing off the reasons, it was very clear that her mind had been far too occupied to let learning happen easily. “And I was the oldest kid in my meditation class.” She added with a laugh. Those younglings learned so fast, and often left her feeling as though she was lagging behind.

Nikias’ kind words made her blush slightly, any sort of compliments always lit up her face with a bit of warmth. She was just now starting to feel comfortable learning force skills, and she knew now that it was due to the fact that she had grieved her father’s passing, had friends, and was very familiar with the Temple. “Force skills weren’t easy for me at first; I had a very hard time even connecting with it for a long time.”

Valae listened intently as Nikias spoke about the Sith, for now she would simply learn through the experiences of others. Though, she had no real desire to come face to face with such a dark being. The thought really did frighten her. “Oh my goodness...” She raised a hand to her mouth when Nikias mentioned that a building had been collapsed on him. How her fellow padawans had the courage to face such difficulties... she hadn’t the slightest clue.

Valae’s dark eyes squinted as they entered the dark temple, and she chuckled at Nikias... but was glad that he had thought to bring along a glow rod. “I’m not sure where I stand with my abilities, to be honest.” She answered, with a bit of a shrug. “But I feel that I have a lot to learn still...”

Her attention shifted when he asked if she could sense the stones. With an expression of deep concentration, she closed her eyes for a moment and reached out with the force. For a moment there was only darkness, but a room started to come into focus in her mind... and she could see the stones. After a few moments of silence, her eyes snapped open and she smiled to Nikias. “C’mon, this way...” Little did she know that the room she had seen was called the Kuddaka Chamber, but she stepped in front of Nikias to lead the way deeper into the temple.

Valae paused outside the chamber, and her eyes scanned the heavy set of doors in front of them. She reached out and attempted to pull the door open, but it didn’t budge... “Uh... you give it a try.” Valae turned to Nikias, it was most likely that the door was just stuck, and she figured that he would have a better chance at prying it open.

[member="Nikias"]

 

[Akhilleus]

[SIZE=10pt]"It’s a good thing Master Heavenshield found you then,[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] have you seen much of the galaxy since leaving your homeworld?" Nikias asked feeling empathy for Valae. The fact that they had both been through so much of the same thing was enough that it made Nik feel as though there was a connection between him and Valae. Though they had both dealt with their losses in far different ways. Even the way they thought as jedi was different. Catching the blush on Valae's cheeks Nikias wondered what he had said or done to get such a reaction. Usually he came off as being flirty or over complimentary but Nikias spoke from his mind and heart before anything else. It was what the Makrosians prided themselves on. "Well that's all changed now hasn't it? You have plenty of friends among the temple now[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] and you can count me among that number." Nikias said offering his friendship to Valae. While they had known each other for quite a while they had never spent any long periods of time getting to truly know each other[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] or build up a relationship beyond associates. "Your connection to it has obviously grown since you were first brought to the temple. Many would be envious of your abilities[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] or at least a bit jealous." Nikias knew this better than anyone as secretly he did feel somewhat envious of the other padawans that constantly built upon their power and knowledge.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]"Don't worry I'm still living,[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] just spent a few months in a bacta tank afterwards... One thing about the Sith is that they won't kill you if they think they can turn you." Nikias admitted to Valae[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] it was a fact that no one else in the entire temple knew. Something that he'd kept close to his chest since the incident with Sabine. The horrible part was that during the fight Nikias had given into his rage for a fraction of the fight and it had driven him[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] gave him strength enough to where he could at least crack the Sith Lords collarbone. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]"Valae... I think the fact that you can admit you still have alot to learn means that you are better than most who can't accept that fact." Nikias said placing his own hand on her shoulder while she led the way. Sometimes it was important to offer encouragement to the other jedi. Some needed that extra push to get moving[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Nik sure had more times than one.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]Coming to the Kuddaka Chamber[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Nikias stared at the large doors from behind Valae and as she tried to pull it open physically Nikias frowned. If she hadn't been able to do it the chances of him doing so may have been the same. "How about we try together[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] though with the force?" Nikias asked aiming his right hand at one of the doors hoping that Valae would take the other. Reaching out with the force Nikias would wrap an invisible grip around his portion of the doors. [/SIZE]

[member="Valae Kitra"]

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

Valae smiled and nodded at Nikias when he suggested that they try together, and add the strength of the force. As he reached out for one door, her hand moved forward to grasp the other, this time she focused and let the energy of the force flow through her arm.

“One... two... three!” She counted aloud, giving them a signal to combine their efforts.

With a strength that she had never experienced before, Valae pulled on the door and felt something release. The pair had been successful in their attempt, and she looked excitedly over at Nikias. She was glad to have a friend by her side, especially as they ventured forth to experience the strange Muntuur Stones. Valae took a few hesitant steps into the chamber, waiting to make sure that Nikias was still beside her. The room was dim, much like the winding tunnels they had just come out of, and the seven stones at imposingly upon the ground.

Valae hadn’t really known what to expect, but seeing the sheer size of the stones was intimidating to say the least. She knew that the force was strong, and one had limitless possibilities when using it... but had anyone truly lifted all of these stones at once? The thought alone was enough to boggle the padawan’s mind. Slowly she made her way to the middle of the room, where she could see all of the stones around them in a circle. Even lifting the smallest stone looked like an impossible task.

“Wow...” Valae scratched her head for a moment. “I can’t even-”

Words completely failed her as she made meek steps towards the smallest, almost as if see expected it to spring to life. Her palm stretched outwards, and she let her hand run along the worn surface of the stone, it sent a cold chill down her whole arm. Valae wondered how many Jedi before them had ventured to this place and how many had been successful... especially padawans.

[member="Nikias"]

 

[Akhilleus]

[SIZE=10pt]With the two combining their forces[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Nikias felt the swell of energy through the air as him and Valae acted as conduits for the force. He was at a lack of words to describe the feeling[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] the flow of energy connecting them. Never had he'd done such a thing with another[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] and only now did he feel the power of the force when working in tandem with another[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt].[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Enforcing his will together with Valae's[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Nikias saw the doors begin opening. with their energies combining together nikias caught the faint sense of the force as a whole at work. the light and benevolent aura that filled the temple came to them as well. It started with the doors shaking as though trying to keep the two shut out[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] but soon enough it bent to the two's will and opened wide.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]Looking over at Valae at the same time Nikias was left a bit breathless from the experience. During that brief moment of them merging their abilities in the force he'd actually been able to sense the force in more than just himself but the environment as well. Though soon enough that touch began retreating from Nikias' mind. Somewhat regretting how fast the connection had ended Nikias offered her a smiled and stepped into the chamber where the Muntuur Stones awaited them. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]Walking counter to Valae the tips of Nikias' fingers grazed the Stones that he passed. The unnatural smoothness of them was awkward but more than a bit intriguing. Considering the sheer size of them Nikias couldn't imagine someone spending their time smoothing them down. "I know exactly what you mean." Nikias said. Stopping his examination of the stones he turned back to Valae. "You're the one who found them, after you." [/SIZE]

[member="Valae Kitra"]

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

Valae blinked a few times when Nikias invited her to try her skill with the stones first, but she nodded a couple of times. The padawan drew in a deep breath and slowly exhaled as she walked back towards the middle of the stones. She let her brown robe slide off her shoulders; sometimes all of that extra fabric was a bit cumbersome. Today she wore a simple training outfit with short sleeves, she felt the chill of the chamber fall over her bare arms, but knew that such sensations would be lost once she started.

“Okay, here it goes...” she said in a quiet voice, smiling over to Nikias.

Next she turned her attention to the smallest of the Muntuur stones and let her eyes fall closed. She could still see the image of the stone in her mind, and she began to concentrate and draw the force to her. Valae had only attempted to lift small objects with telekinesis, namely her saber and robes. Upon summoning such objects, she hadn’t felt any kind of resistance, only a light tug as they made their way to her waiting hand. Now, as she reached for the Muntuur stone, she found that it was difficult to even imagine wrapping her mind around its large shape.

The corner of Valae’s closed eyes twitched slightly, and she reached further, letting the force flow freely through her. She could feel the force beginning to wrap around the stone, and when she commanded it to lift from the ground... nothing happened. As she continued to attempt and make the stone rise even a few inches, she could feel resistance against her efforts. It was a very strange feeling, and very tiring as it turns out. A few beads of sweat had formed on Valae’s brow, and after a few moments more she realized that she was only straining herself. She exhaled hard, as though she had been holding her breath the whole time, and collapsed back against the ground.

“Phew...” Her eyes opened and slowly let the ceiling of the chamber swim into focus. “I couldn’t even make it shift the tiniest bit.” She held her hand up, index finger and thumb touching gently for emphasis.

Valae sat up again and looked over to Nikias, slowly rising to her feet and stepping aside. She offered him an encouraging smile; perhaps his attempt would be successful.

“Your turn.”

[member="Nikias"]

 

[Akhilleus]

[SIZE=10pt]Reaching out with the force Nikias would catch Valae's robes before they landed on the ground and pull them to him. The floor of the area was incredibly dusty and while Valae had shown she wasn't a woman that cared to much about such things and was more focused on practicality Nikias still did it. Catching the robes in his hand he felt the thick fabric and grimaced. How do they ever wear these accursed things? Nikias thought before watching Valae and offering her his own smile of encouragement. She had been apart of the jedi longer than him and he was sure she'd do well. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]With Valae starting Nikias did not say anything and kept his mouth closed to watch in silence. Anything he said could possibly throw her off and mess up her hold on the stone. Nikias knew this due to the amount he had trained in telekinesis. While he could now multitask on it and not get distracted as he once had[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] he knew it was still a chore. While Valae's eyes were closed Nikias took the chance to look over her form... For research of course. Valae was easily one of the better looking women at the jedi temple and that had been obvious to Nikias ever since they had met. Even with her being petite it worked on her.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]Shaking his head Nik drove the thoughts from his mind and looked back to her progress on the stone[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] she hadn't made any which was shocking. If anyone could do it Nikias thought she'd be able to. The strain she showed was visible which made even Nikias question if he could do it. "I think you did excellent" Nikias asked gently handing Valae her robes and moving to enter the circle of stones. Nikias turned to the smallest one and focused on it. Closing his eyes would only make the ordeal harder on him due to not being able to actually sense things in the force to well. Slowly Nikias envisioned an invisible hand forming and cocooning the smallest stone. Focusing all his attention on the stone Nikias' muscles tensed and the rock stayed still. It’s not enough. He thought before taking a deep breath. Delving into himself and doing the un-jedi like think Nikias went to the one thing that had been shown to give him strength. His emotions[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] and as his consciousness dived into the memories of him being tortured[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] of his time with the Sactum[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] and the friends he had made Nikias brought them all to bare on the stone. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]Starting with a slight shiver the stone began to vibrate and lifted a few centimeters into the air before falling back to the ground knocking up dust and dirt. Sweat poured down Nikias' face from the exertion it had taken for him to do as much as he had[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] but there was a smile of accomplishment on his face. Stumbling over Valae body wracked with exhaustion Nikias leaned against a stone. "Never... Again." He coughed out jokingly. [/SIZE]

[member="Valae Kitra"]

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

“Thanks.” Valae’s smile remained as Nikias handed back her robes, and she clutched it close to her body. As she moved past Nikias, her smile flickered into a bit of a frown. She was beginning to feel a bit disappointed that she hadn’t been able to move the stone. It was always a struggle for Valae to keep doubt at bay, and her mind became filled with a push and pull of conflicting thoughts. She moved towards the edge of the circle to keep from distracting Nikias, willing her boots not to make sound against the chamber floor.

Silence fell again, and she watched as Nikias began to concentrate on the stone. She noticed how he did not close his eyes, and wondered for a moment if that would have helped in her own attempt. Valae noticed how the Prince’s muscles tensed, and she could see his broad chest rise and fall steadily as he focused. In the shadow of the stones, the dim light of the chamber cast upon Nikias seemed to highlight his face, and she felt a soft smile return. He was quite handsome, but Valae banished this thought quickly... it would only make her feel flustered and awkward.

The next moments stretched out before her quietly, and Valae’s attention was brought back to the stone as it began to shake. She could hear the stone grinding against the ground for a moment, and her eyes went wide as Nikias lifted it. The sound of the stone dropping back into place startled her, and she hadn’t been able to hold back a bit of a yelp, but quickly covered the sound with her hand. Valae watched as Nikias moved past and leaned against a stone, clearly spent now from the effort it had taken. She loosened her grip on her robes, only then realizing that she’d been clutching them quite hard.

“That was AMAZING.” Valae finally said and her voice lit with excitement.

She was proud of her friend’s accomplishment, and suddenly it didn’t matter that she hadn’t been able to lift the stone herself. Valae stepped closer and pulled Nikias into a hug, she’d meant it as a friendly gesture... but was she trying to say something more? She wasn’t even sure herself. Was this a move that she would soon come to regret? Would he push her away? The questions were all there in her mind, but she had simply been caught up in the moment.

[member="Nikias"]

 

[Akhilleus]

[SIZE=10pt]Feeling the warm embrace of Valae[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Nikias did not push her away nor did he immediately embrace her. If he really needed an excuse for it he'd blame it on him being exhausted. The hug had completely caught the Hellyni off guard and it was rare for him to experience such a thing. Nikias couldn't remember the last time he'd actually been hugged in such a way. Slowly Nikias' hands wrapped around Valae and he accepted her hug pulling her closer to him. Craving for the attention Nikias held the hug for a bit before breaking it up holding Valae by her waist. Looking into those big brown eyes he almost felt himself getting lost in them. "What I did is not something special Valae[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] you can do it to." Nikias said turning his head to the stone and nodding to it. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]"I will be honest with you Valae,[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] that was not off the back of my own ability..." Worrying his bottom lip Nikias wondered if he should be honest with Valae about how he'd been able to work up the energy to lift the stone. He trusted her in some ways and while the Sanctum was open to many ways of using the force Nikias didn't know Valae's own beliefs in its use. Many jedi thought that not using their emotions was the only true way to use the force[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] but Nikias had felt it many times before. The further along he got into his training the more he had begun to use his emotions and he hadn't done anything evil or to qualify him as a Sith. "You can do the same thing I did[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt];[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] you just have to use your emotions." Nikias said raising one of his hands to brush a few strands of hair from Valae's face. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]"All emotions aren't bad Valae,[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] I used my love for my people[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] my want to destroy the sith[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] my lust to return home. All those gave me the strength to lift the stone[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] and you can do it to. Just accept what you feel and use it. Not for destruction but to protect the innocents[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] to accomplish your goals." In some ways what Nikias spoke would sound like it had been drawn from the Sith code but his tone carried with it a lightness that said otherwise. [/SIZE]

[member="Valae Kitra"]

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

As Valae stood with her arms around Nikias, the moments came and went without a reaction at first. The urge to move away from him was there; for fear that she’d made him feel uncomfortable. However, she felt his arms slip around her, pulling her in close and she let herself remain there in the embrace. There in the space between his arms, she suddenly felt sheltered and secure, far more comfortable in his presence than ever before. As the hug finally broke, she felt his hands linger upon her waist and his words fell upon her softly. Her eyes followed his gaze back towards the stone for a moment.

She stayed quiet as he spoke to her, his words of encouragement reminded her of someone; a masked man that she’d met on Iego. He had told her that she could do anything she wished, and be anything that she wanted. Valae returned to the present when she felt Nikias’ hand brush her hair away from her face; she had never attempted to use her emotions to fuel her force powers. She looked inward for a moment, there was much that she could draw from; her father, a desire to make her master proud, a need to care for and protect her friends...

“I’ll give it another shot.” Valae said, looking to Nikias with a renewed energy and determination in her eyes.

Slowly she turned away and moved back towards the stone, this time she decided that she would remain standing... it somehow made her feel stronger. Valae drew in a few deep breaths in preparation, and let her thoughts drift to those she cared about. There was a feeling of warmth within, and Valae used it to channel the force through her, her connection felt stronger this time. As she imagined the stone in her mind, there was no fear of failure, only the sense of knowing that her will would become a reality.

Valae’s palms stretched out, and she began to lift her hands just slightly, willing the stone to move upwards at the same moment. There was a strange sensation that she was carrying the stone between her hands, and suddenly the resistance fell away, she opened her eyes to see the stone begin to move. She called upon an inner strength that had yet to be tapped, and her arms began to shake, but the stone came just off the ground. Part of her wouldn’t have believed it had she not seen it with her own eyes. Just as she realized that she’d done it, her concentration broke suddenly and the stone fell back into place.

Valae fell to her knees, and then let her hands come to press against the cold ground as she caught her breath. She was completely exhausted, but there was a wide grin on her face. She drew the breaths in as deep as she could, but found it difficult as her breathing was so rapid now.

[member="Nikias"]

 

[Akhilleus]

[SIZE=10pt]With the hug ending[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Nikias removed his hands from Valae’s waist. While he had enjoyed the embrace and hadn’t wanted it to end the goal for Valae was more important. That smile warmed Nikias’ heart as he moved away from the stones to take up a position and watch what came next. Did my speech work? Nikias wondered seeing the determination on Valae’s face. Through one’s own emotions they could gain more power than not accepting them[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] at least that’s how Nikias saw things and had experienced them. Why some jedi denied or never accepted their emotions was beyond him. How could they ever expect to change anything if they couldn’t the one part that made all sentients who they were? [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]Thankfully the Sanctum was much more open about the type of Force users they let into their order. If not Nikias was sure he would’ve been kicked out due to him drawing on his emotions. He’d spent so long hiding it that it felt good to confide in Valae[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] and now here she was doing the same thing that he was. Arms crossing over his chest Nikias watched carefully examining every part of Valae. While Nikias had put everything he had into telekinesis[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Valae was more balanced in her use of the force which meant that Nikias could probably learn something from her technique as well. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10pt]With the seconds stretching Nikias had almost took a step forward to give Valae more encouragement[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] but instead took a step back upon seeing the stone lift into the air off the pure willpower and strength of Valae. Understanding the excitement Valae had felt when he had lifted the sto[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt]ne[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt],[/SIZE][SIZE=10pt] Nikias moved to her side wrapping an arm over her shoulder. “I told you that you could do it. Just had to open yourself to your emotions.” [/SIZE]

[member="Valae Kitra"]

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

When she stood up again, she found that Nikias was now by her side and felt his arm slide over her shoulders. She was still worn out from the experience she’d just had, but the feeling of accomplishment was beginning to overtake the fatigue. Valae smiled sheepishly over at Nikias, again a flush of color found her face, suddenly feeling self-conscious that she was the center of attention at the moment.

“Thanks for your help.” She said with a nod, despite the extra touch of color on her face, a smile found its way forward. “I couldn’t have done it without your encouragement.” It was the truth. Had she been left to her own devices, she would have given up after her first attempt and left the chamber with her head hanging low. Perhaps she was capable of more than she knew, but had yet to discover her true calling.

What could have been a tender moment was suddenly marred by a low rumbling sound that echoed throughout the chamber. Valae’s hands quickly covered her stomach, and she inched away from Nikias, chuckling slightly. She was starting to get hungry now, and it wouldn’t be long before her good mood began to diminish. Knowing that there was a strong possibility of becoming too ‘hangry’, and she certainly didn’t want to snap at her new friend, especially when they had shared such a nice day. It also struck her that she didn’t know if they were planning to stay at the temple or make their way back to Sanctum Space.

“Do you want to find something to eat around here?” She asked, finally looking back to Nikias. “Are we staying here tonight, or heading back? I don’t mind either way.”

[member="Nikias"]