To Lay a Foundation [OSL]

[Leos Palle]

"It's not my real name, of course," he said, though he doubted the man thought it was. "I'm not knowledgeable of my real name, however, so Electroheart must suffice."

Sometimes it was a might bit difficult to deal with the fact that he knew nothing about his fast. Telling people that his name was Electroheart often got mixed reviews. Some people thought he was pulling their leg, which could lead to them laughing about it, or it could lead to them being angry and thinking he was fibbing to them. Truthfully, the latter were the types he cared the least about, and he was more apt to forcibly pull their leg when they let on their anger. Not in the physical sense, but those who got angry over a name were the type of less than intellectual imbeciles that he rather enjoyed messing with.

Not that it mattered here.

Elijah straightened his men out and began dividing them up to their task at hand. Those he left over were instructed to grab tools and carts to begin hauling the dirt to the side that needed to be filled in. He did this mostly with hand directions as it wasn't hard for them to figure out where, exactly, the dirt was going to have to go. Though the men were keen to goof off and not be serious, they weren't exactly stupid. This was something for which he was glad.

"Word travels," he said in answer to Elijah's question.

Truthfully it did. In circles of those who cast themselves as Force sensitives, word of a new order was apt to travel like wildfire. Considering the particular detriment that several such orders have played upon the galaxy in recent times, one that broadcasts itself as accepting, and wishing to be something better than what was, well, that was going to draw quite a bit of attention. He, like many others, was ultimately skeptical about the outcome of said endeavor. Inevitably, any sentient and sapient being was destined to become prejudiced in some fashion towards others. In the long run, their efforts may fizzle out and die, but he wanted to give them the benefit of the doubt and see for himself.

"I wanted to see with my own two eyes what was going on here. Learn something new, as it were. Besides, it never hurts to make new acquaintances, does it? I find the larger the network of people you know, the more successful you are in life." He paused briefly to clap his hands at a few of the men to move them along. "What of yourself? What brought you to Monastery?"

|[member="Elijah Henson"]|[member="Bethany Kismet"]|[member="Valae Kitra"]|​

 

[Elijah Beckett]

"Yeah I figured, makes sense I suppose? Given your condition." He gave the Chiss a sidewards glance, and motioning slightly to the man's metal arms. "Electroheart is quite quaint I imagine." There was a small, amused grin on his face as he spoke. Then it dissappeared as [member="Electroheart"] spoke of his memory loss.

"That sucks to hear, can't imagine what that's like. Got to be an odd feeling to just not know." And truly, Elijah didn't know, even if he had spent a portion of the past several months trying to forget a number of his own memories through alcohol.

As he watched his men at work, he couldn't help but smile. When he had stumbled upon them the group had mainly been in shambles; unable to find a coherent strategy on what to do, despite Samuel's best efforts. He supposed it was the young human's drive to just get thing done; akin to [member="Bethany Kismet"]'s, that kept the bunch of misfits together up to that point. That had certainly been quite a bit of discontent; for a lack of a better word, when Samuel had brought him in to lead them instead. Ironically even at the introduction both the group and Elijah himself had something in common, neither wanting him to have any part of their situation. But somehow Samuel had managed to dig his way around, under, over, or whatever past his walls and got him to speak of his past. Something about it seemed to resonate with the men, which Elijah had been surprised about given all of them were degrees younger than him. It was enough that they recultantly agreed and over time they realised he was just the same as anyone else there, someone with a damaged past, looking to do some good in the galaxy.

During this time he still listened to what Electroheart had to say, and had to agree. He even let out a mental chuckle as the man brought up the topic of 'network of people'. It was something Elijah was all too familiar with; his SIS days, although that was more of a 'network of spies and informants'. Though all the same the Chiss' words rang true, the larger the network the greater chance of success.

"A fresh start I suppose. Had a lot of violence in my past; too much of it probably. Ended up hearing about this place from a Jedi, then found myself leading this bunch and figured why not push both myself and them to do something bigger." He grabbed his flask again and took another drink. "I was a soldier before this, but eventually I just retired." Elijah had internally debated over what to tell Electroheart, but as his eyes fell on Samuel he reminded himself of what the young man had said in the past, about sometimes talking about one's past wasn't always a bad thing. So he opted to give the Chiss some of the truth, but not all of it.

His attention was suddenly drawn away when he heard a new voice suddenly speak. Elijah turned his head to look over at [member="Avin Starfire"].

"Uh sure, what's it's you need help with?"

 

[Avin Starfire]

"I heard you lot were building a safe haven just wanted to make sure this was true, and if so how I could help ya'll? " Avin asked inquisitively


Avin stood back waiting for a response, it was clear he was interrupting a conversation , yet he didn't care. Avin had information to find out and didn't have the time for pleasantries.

He took the time that [member='Elijah Henson'] was turning towards him to check his left pocket, yes it still there he though and wondered to himself if they could help him with what it was and what it all meant.

 

[Bethany Kismet]

They came to a stop at the edge of the valley's forest. Bethany tilted her head slightly, emerald eyes taking in the trampled trees, a small frown on her face.

"It is beautiful," she agreed. "Though I don't know that repair is possible here. Sometimes it's not possible to fix what is broken." She spoke softly. On the surface, she was of course talking about the trees before them. But as was typical with the Jedi Master, her words addressed a deeper truth.

"It's possible for even actions taken with the best of intentions to have unintended consequences. These trees have been growing in this valley, untouched, for hundreds of years. We cannot undo the damage done, not in a day- not in a lifetime. Actions taken without thought cannot be taken back."

Bethany knelt, reaching down and plucking a seed pod from beneath a downed branch.

"But we can always move forward, start again," she said offering the pod to [member="Kaalia Voldaren"]. "There is no such thing as a path that is barred to us, though sometimes, they grow more difficult to see when we focus on the journey's end, rather than where our feet currently tread." She was addressing the last part of the girl's words- 'If that is even still possible.'

It was always possible, said the Jedi's gentle smile.

"Peace isn't an end," she murmured, finally addressing her concerns directly. "It's a constant state, the path itself, rather than what lies at the end. And that is a path with a thousand branches- each reachable at any time," her smile grew a touch wistful, "though sometimes it is harder to see than others."

Reaching down again, she retrieved another pod, and another.

"You're lost because, instead of looking at where you are, you are focused on where you are going. Let go of the idea that the end is the end at all." She paused then, gesturing to the swath of destruction before them. "This is what happens when the destination becomes more important than each step. Even with good intentions, the consequences are not seen until it is too late to prevent them."

The diminutive woman looked up at her, cocking her head slightly to the side.

"Where are your feet now, Kaalia? If you take each step with awareness and mindfulness, you have the choice to walk, consciously, in peace. But if you search for it, always assuming it is something out of reach, some far flung goal rather than each and every moment, you will forever be walking past it and unable to see it."

 

[Leos Palle]

"You get used to it over time," he said, watching the men move back and forth.

It was true. In general he was used to the fact that he knew nothing of his past. Not knowing who you had been meant a fresh start in life. That could be a good thing, for all he knew. What his past had been was a general mystery, so focusing instead on the future made the most sense. That was why he'd left whatever world it was he'd woken up on, and ended up on Serenno. He didn't want to be mired in general misery and loathing of not knowing his past, he wanted to make something of himself. Knowing what he did about his prowess with the Force, he'd wanted to find someone to teach him, though he hadn't intended to learn the traditional ways of the Force. He preferred neutrality.

Elijah mentioned that he'd been a soldier before all of this. Not surprising. A lot of soldiers ended up disenchanted with warfare. Spend enough time killing people and you lose a part of yourself if you don't find a way to get away from it. He didn't know how it was that he knew that, though he suspected it had something to do with his past. General knowledge of trade skills was something that he'd surprisingly retained despite his memory loss.

"I believe I was some sort of soldier before, myself. Can't say what kind, but I have a general knowledge of combat that exceeds that of the average person."

Another individual approached them with questions. He seemed new so he motioned a hand towards where the others were laying stones.

"You might try there. As for your general question, yes, that seems to be the order of the day. I haven't exactly delved into the matter as of yet, but it's been quite peaceful here since I arrived and it seems that's the way it's going to remain."

For how long he didn't know. How long could the leadership of this organization keep it from getting mired in galactic politics? Numerous people had tried in the past, according to records, but they'd all failed to do what was being attempted here. The galaxy, realistically, didn't need people to sit on their hands when they could make a difference. That said, he admired the willingness to be open and accepting rather than pushing people away. At least this group seemed apt to not cause conflict, which was a small victory in and of itself. Even the Silver Jedi of late had become somewhat antagonistic towards those around them. Hopefully that wouldn't become the case here.

|[member="Elijah Henson"]|[member="Avin Starfire"]|[member="Bethany Kismet"]|​

 

[Hal Terrano]

There was something so perfectly cathartic in physical labour. Crafting, working on something with your own hands offered a kind of relief that was a rare gem in the galaxy. In this case it was honest, soothing and even in the case of one man, offered atonement.

As if he were lifting heavy stone off of his own conscience.

It was really, quite a strange threesome. A Jedi torn straight from the realms of history. A warrior, both charismatic and commanding. Then there was Hal. A rock in human form, with all the personality and grace of said rock. Eroded and chipped by circumstance and time but still present in all of his stony glory.

Which made it all the more strange when the warrior, Michael Sardun requested that he did the talking.

Pale eyebrows knotted at the thought, brow wrinkling as he turned to face the other man, folding arms across his chest as he looked to him with a very confused expression affixed.

“I do not do the talking,” he stated awkwardly, not sure why such a scenario would even be suggested. Hal didn't particularly enjoy conversation beyond that of his interests and had a tendency to sound both cold and unwelcoming with his rigid tones and frown-prone face.

Thankfully Bethany was more than equipped to cover for their failings in this situation, and Hal was more than happy to just get on with work and let the woman deal with the gathering people. Between the three of them they really had all of the bases covered.

Thank the Force.

---

[member="Michael Sardun"] [member="Bethany Kismet"]

 

[Kaalia Pavanos]

Kaalia merely listened as [member="Bethany Kismet"] spoke, taking in every word and processing it. It was a lot to think about, the true meaning found deeper within the message. "I see." She looked at the seed pod in her hand, held it between her thumb and index finger, then let it fall into her palm as she closed her hand into a fist. "I will have to start at the beginning. Instead of frantically to find where I need to end up, I need to let my actions bring me where I should be." The past was in the past, and that changing that was impossible. Taking every step conciously, with the lessons learned, would perhaps show her where it is she belongs. "Too many times have I believed that I had no choice, but maybe I did." She looked back to the woman, nodding with a modest smile. "Thank you. I will remember your words, and look for guidance in them."

There was a moment of silence, letting Bethany's and her own words sink in. "If there's anything I can help with," the redhead then said, "I'd be happy to help. I'm still recovering from a battle, otherwise I would've helped with building."

 

[Bethany Kismet]

"Well," Bethany said, smiling warmly, "How about helping me collect these seeds then?"

It was such a simple thing. Collecting seeds from the fallen trees so that they could replant. But it meant far more than the simple fact of the action. It was a promise, in it's way, that Bethany and the Order would take their stewardship of Monastery to heart. And a chance for [member="Kaalia Voldaren"] to simply be, even if only for a little while.

*****

​Over the next half hour, others drifted over. They started to remove the trees that were too damaged to salvage. Where the damage was not too severe, Bethany would pause. It didn't matter if it was a towering tree or an insignificant 'weed', she would stop, and inspect. And if aid was required....

While historically, Bethany Kismet was known primarily as a healer (and didn't she hope most of the people here weren't interested in history!), her true talent and connection lay in the green and growing world. Reaching out with the Force, she accelerated the regrowth of those plants not so badly damaged that they wouldn't be able to survive on their own. She couldn't reforest the swath by herself, and certainly not in a few hours. But she could help it get started.

 

[Elijah Beckett]

Elijah went to answer [member="Avin Starfire"] when a sudden burst of commotion from his men grabbed his attention.

He turned to the source to find two of his men who were set to the task of leveling the ground, were bickering amongst themselves about the correct way to do it.

Elijah cursed silently.

"Samuel." It was one word; a name, but the sharp, authoritative command behind it was hard to miss. Years of commanding soldiers did that to a person, even if said man preferred it wouldn't.

OId habits and all.

Elijah didn't say another word, just gave the young man a look that basically said 'deal with this', which in response Samuel just gave a resigned nod.

"For goodness sake, you're both wrong! We need to work as one, not try and level it off in individual chunks."

The two men seemed to shut up at Samuel's bark. It wasn't as intimidating as Elijah's, but it snapped them out of their argument all the same.

With that, Elijah returned his attention to the newcomer.

"What he said." Nudging his head slightly in [member="Electroheart"]'s direction. "Welcome to Monastery, and this." He paused to sprawl his arms out to all the construction going on around them. "Is Sanctuary. A safe haven for anyone whose in need of one."

"If you're looking for something to do; to help, and don't mind getting your hands dirty, then you can help us with the ground here. Otherwise I'm sure you can just walk up to any of the other groups here and they'll welcome any help."

-x-​

​

The time seemed to pass by quickly, witin the next half hour Elijah's men had finally got into the groove of things and were working as one well oiled machine getting the ground levelled out. At one point, mainly out of boredom just standing around, Elijah picked up a shovel and pitched in.

 

[Avin Starfire]

Avin's shoulders drooped slightly and he smiled honestly for the first time. It was nice not to be walking into a trap for once he thought and at the same time his hope in the galaxy was somewhat restored knowing that there were so many people willing to give up whats theirs for the good of others.

"Well thanks for the help, the name's Avin by the way." He stuck his hand out towards [member='Elijah Henson'] ensuring to lock eye contact.

He finished with his pleasantries and set out back to his ship, he was going to need his tools.

The hours went passed and Avin and his astromech unit got to work on grinding down and fitting floor tiles. It wasn't glamorous or even payed work, but it was safe and after speaking further with some of the other members of workers, he started to feel part of a family again.

 

[000]

[member="Calder Icehammer"]

It had been if anything somewhat of an interesting change of pace as the thought pass him mind no sooner had he'd gotten the tile up. At which time as the turn and had been somewhat trying to keep it afloat. Using as much the knowledge and training he had since his return as well what little he could regain from the past thru his session with the healers. At any rate, as he moved along that he couldn't help stare briefly at the one who'd address them earlier. That for once something about her felt somewhat familiar but then again like everything else thus far. That familiarity had been at best brief and fleeting that left him pondering that perhaps it was just a coincidence. Being that he'd spent enough time with the Jedi healers and Master. That he somehow learn enough to spot or at the very least catch a brief hint of their presence in the force.

At any rate seeing an open spot on the floor across from Beron bear that he met and came here with. That he carefully and cautiously lower it into place. Which was close but had been in need of a bit of extra adjusting to fit in just right. At which time once it was done that he had to pause as the thought passed his mind. Of how if only he'd know realize those extra time spent training to relearn the basic force skills. However much it felt a bit embarrassing it was at first with some the younger trainees who were a bit younger that he was. Had seem been paying off that he couldn't help but slightly smirk at the idea. That is till eventually glance asside he noted the faint glance the beorn had apparent been engaged towards his direction. Which made him turn and walk over towards him spoke.

"So how you holding up big guy...yeah i know am a bit rusty at this. But i reckon least the Master back at the Temple be glad that least could get the basic down pat....and be maybe put those training to good use rather than mischief...."

 

[Viviana]

"I am doing rather well. I just have never seen such a thing done before. It is... Interesting." He smiled wide to [member="Ronin Wendigo"] before turning back to his own work. He had never seen such an application of the Force, or the Spirits, but it would be very useful here. But, the Beorni didn't know how to do such a thing, and so he continued doing it his way. Another slab was lifted over his head and he moved another of the slabs.

"How did you learn how to do that anyway?"

 

[000]

[member="Calder Icehammer"]

"I am doing rather well. I just have never seen such a thing done before. It is... Interesting."

It was then that his rather large compatriot he'd met on the way here replied. To which with a slight grin he came reply back.

"Well, that good to hear as wasn't sure...seeing I rarely get see others like yourself. Well, other than the one back over at the temple who I guess looking at you I would reckon be what he'd look like in a years time or so. But yeah I understand......not something I myself would believe could be done. But heck I guess anything possible.....though if you really want to see something. You should come by seeing when one the other Master could do....which is far more interesting as it is a sight see. Which I could only hope someday be able to try to achieve in time....and bit more training I reckon as they keep telling me back in the temple."

At which time after a short break on his part as the larger Beori continued with his task that Ronin, later on followed suit as well. When at which time he came speak turn towards him yet again.

"How did you learn how to do that anyway?"


To which with a reassuring smile and light nod as he began to try to lift another slab in place replied.

"Well might say the hard way....had been wandering for quite before I came settle in the temple. Where I had to try to relearn much of it after losing the ability along with bit my memory for a while. But I guess you could too if you see about meeting with one the Master later?"