Song of Silence [Meira]

[10Tickler]

Bakura lay behind them, Force only knew what lay ahead. Kiffu was a new planet to him, yet there it sat in space before the Ship that the Padawan and his Master were aboard. The Golden-green atmosphere of the planet beneath them seemed to Literally Crackle with a magnificent power, one that Awed the young Chiss, the fine hairs on his Deep blue skin rising from both the Electricity in the Air as they descended, as well as the Excitement that took the form of Endorphins racing through his body.

The small ship they had taken, off of Bakura, was the same that they had arrived in. Big enough for Maybe four people, there was barely any room in it, Most certainly not enough to Practice Lightsaber combat skills, which had left him somewhat dulled around the Edges. As his Crimson eyes scanned the world that they approached, Arichi made a mental note to Ask Meira for some more Training with his Twin sabers. Even if the ship hadn't been big enough for some training, however, it was perfectly suited for others. During the entire trip to Kiffu, all the way in the Inner Rim's Colonies, the boy had been quiet, moreso then usual. He was sure that Master Meira had been happy for the Break from incessant questioning of everything to do with the Force and the Galaxy, and after Bakura, after how the mission had gone, he was also pretty sure that she would need a break.

So, rather then trying to increase his knowledge of the Universe around him, he had focused on that within him, spending much of the Trip Trying to meditate, showing a focus that only he could muster. It had taken at least a week, although his Perception of time was all askew from the near-constant Focus that he had afforded his practice, so he couldn't be sure. No matter though, it had been a while, and he had spent that while practicing using the Force, trying to let go and allow it to guide him as he Meditated. At times, when his body, youthful and full of energy, would become restless, he had gotten up to get some exercise, Running in place, Doing push-ups, and Practicing using the Force to Move things around him, and his own body.

Arichi was amazed, to say the least, at how easily some of the motions came to him now, and while he was still working on Finely coordinated movements, with smaller objects, he could see, and feel himself getting better by the day. He ate enough to sustain himself, and drank when he was thirsty, but would soon go back to the floor mat he had laid out, and work on focusing his Mind once more.

For a Jedi, Jon'arichi'kotokk knew that he was physically weak, he was just of a slender build, and somewhat nerdy. This thought in mind, when he was still at the temple, as a Youngling, he had read through the Archives, and at one point discovered Battle Meditation. To Give his allies, his Brothers and sisters against Darkness, a boost, to grant them a greater feel for the Force...the mere idea called to him, calling out his name in a Glorious way. If he couldn't fight well, then he would Enable his Master, his friends to Fight for him, and support them however possible. Now that he had a master, learning to do this became more and more possible.

Yet now, as the Small ship carried the two Jedi down towards the Rocky, yet beautiful surface of Kiffu, his eyes locked onto the Architecture, the beauty of the Towers and Buildings that Dotted the Surface. As the ship, under his master's skillful hands, landed softly on a Pad, he could barely restrain himself, and had to bite his lip to keep from having an outburst of excitement. Taking a few deep breaths, Trying to find that Fabled "Jedi Composure", he turned to Meira, eyes glittering. It's beautiful here Master he commented, his voice barely constraining the excitement that lay beneath the surface.

[Meira]

The journey between the two planets had been a peaceful one, and Meira was thankful for it. She didn't like to think about it, but she and Arichi had come very close to death on Bakura. They would have died were it not for the timely arrival of the Council member and other Jedi. Meira had faced mortality before. Indeed, it had been part of her trials to cope with the death of her master... and uncle. But her own life had never hung so precariously on the balance before.

More troubling than that, however, was how close Arichi had come to his end. Her own life was not of consequence. Meira knew this. But Arichi was one of the future population of the Jedi. He was her charge, her responsibility. To have brought him so close to death, and indeed so close to the dark side; Meira felt ashamed. She had failed to protect him adequately. Yes, the life of any Jedi was dangerous, but as his master it was her obligation to prepare him before he faced such danger. She had not done that. She hadn't thought before acting. And that mistake had nearly cost them their lives.

But Meira did not dwell on her failure. She accepted it, swallowed it down, and was determined to learn from it. She meditated on it and would grow from it. This was not to say it was an easy task. The protective feelings she now recognized that she had over Arichi were powerful emotions. Already their bond was strong and though Meira knew that such a bond was necessary in order to teach her pupil, she would also have to be wary that their bond did not control them. Such lack of control over such strong emotions would inevitably lead to the dark side. This was a hard lesson to learn, and would still require meditation, she was sure, for years to come.

It helped, for now, that Arichi too felt a need to turn his focus inward. Her own ability to meditate was far bettered by the absense of his constant questions in her ear. The Kiffar woman smiled at the thought as she prepare the vessel to land on her home world. She had never considered Arichi's interest in... everything... to be a bad thing. She admired his youthful zeal.

Now the woman laughed. To consider the boy youthful as if she were already an old crone. She shook her head at herself. They were nearly landed now; Meira was going through the final sequences. Arichi had entered the cockpit to examine the landscape and Meira could see that the boy was struggling to contain his excitement.

At his words, Meira nodded, straining to hold the smile back from her own face. Though she had very few memories of her home planet, Meira could not deny the swell of happiness it brought to her. Once the ship was fully settled and all systems shut down, Meira stood and looked down at her padawan. For a moment, she kept her face serious.

Arichi, remember that no matter what the mission or venture, we are always representatives of the Jedi. We must always act accordingly.

As the last words escaped her lips, they were accompanied by a sudden smile, a flash of playfulness darting across her emerald eyes. Without another word, but with a shrill of laughter, Meira raced from the cockpit and through the hold of the ship to the exit ramp, calling for Arichi not to be so slow in following her.

On the landing pad, an number of people were already gathering. This small port was the only one belonging to the Valli clan, and aside from small tracks through the wilderness, it was the only way in or out of the Valli community. Compared to the other clans of Kiffu, the Valli were small, their lifestyles somewhat primative, though they still maintained many technological comforts.

When Meira appeared on the landing pad, a cheer errupted from the gathered clan and many moved forward to greet her. Meira knew many of them and guessed that most were her family. But on her uncle's orders, none had ever revealed their exact relationship to her. To Meira, they were all cousins and uncles, and she was able to keep a certain amount of distance from them emotionally. This was the balance that uncle Evos had created for her so that she might know her culture and her people without the dangers of being too closely attached to any of them.

When her padawan appeared from the ship, many stopped talking, all turning to look at the strange blue skinned boy who had appeared. Some of the younger children toddled up to him, reaching out to touch his odd skin as if to test if it were real. Meira moved back over to stand next to Arichi, hoping that her presence might offer the boy some courage while being stared at by strangers.

Everyone! She called to get the group's attention. This is Arichi, my padawan. She had placed her arm over his shoulders, holding him at her side. And as if her words were magic, the crowd gave another cheer and moved in to greet the boy. Meira would laugh and do her best to keep some breathing room around them.

Soon the crowd was moving the two across the platform and down a staircase that would bring them to street level in the small settlement. Unlike the towers of the larger cities of Kiffu, the Valli built their buildings on the ground, and most were only one or two stories high. the streets between the buildings were well maintained compacted dirt roads. The buildings each had their own subtle design to them, be they houses or businesses. The central main street was paved with smooth stone, and it was down this street that the two were taken now.

Slowly, out of the din of chatter and movement, the sound of small hands clapping out a rhythm slowly took over until everyone, children and adults alike, joined it. Soon, as the rhythm continued, voices we added to the mix, and the chanted song rang clear in the air.

Ha-ere Mai!
Te manuhiri e!
Kua tae mai koe,
Ki te tautoko e.

Ha-ere Mai!
Tena ra koe e hoa.
Ka nui te koa
Te kitenga i a koe

Ha-ere Mai!
E manaaki nei e
Matou i a koe
No reira kia ora

Ha-ere Mai!
Nau mai ra e hoa!
Ha-ere Mai!
Ha-ere Mai!



((The above song was taken from a Maori greeting song. Here is the translation:

Come hither
visitor!
You have arrived
to give (your) support.

Come hither!
You are here friend.
Great is the happiness
at seeing you.

Come hither,
you have bestowed prestige on us.
We say to you
once again "Kia ora."

Come hither!
Welcome friend!
Come hither!
Come hither!

[10Tickler]

While his master had seemed to dwell on the Danger that she and Arichi had faced on the Agricorps planet, the Cerulean-skinned child had tried to go beyond that. In as much as he depended on his master to train him, Arichi knew that she depended on him to Assist her, in whatever way possible. He didn't blame anyone for what had happened on Bakura, and had merely made an oath to be Better-prepared before the Next mission. Thus had been the motivation behind his training on the ship, and as they settled onto the small landing pad of the Valli Clan, he could already see the Kiffar gathering around it, curious, excited at the thought of a Visitor.

With his eyes trained on Meira as she spoke, Arichi nodded, sagely, slowly, totally missing the joke, and as his master Darted out, off the ship and into the Kiffu day, he followed, hands hidden in his sleeves, moving slowly to descend from the ship himself. Out in the air, it was neither Dry, nor Humid, but a rather nice level of moisture, with it not being too hot out either. It was a nice planet, in his opinion. However, he hurried his steps somewhat, only to feel pushed back by the Energy, so full of life, that Swept past him, enveloping Meira. Accompanied by a Rousing cheer of excitement, he smiled softly to himself, this was indeed his master's home.

Here, Meira was liked, almost like the Prodigal child, return from saving the galaxy, and the joy was palatable in the air, not oppressive in it's force, but amazingly caring. She was loved here, they had missed her. The corners of the Chiss boy's mouth twitched slightly...was there anywhere that he would receive such a greeting? As far as he knew, he was alone in the Jedi Order, and while the Temple was home, he wondered about his people, mere shades in his memory.

As Meira introduced him, Arichi took notice of some Young ones touching him, and kneeling down to take a knee, he closed his eyes, smiling a little before flashing them open, the brilliant red glow, caused by oxygen in the air, causing those children to back up, momentarily, before returning, their touch cool against his unusually-warm skin. Chuckling slightly when they had finally backed up, he took to his feet once more, looking up at Meira as she announced to her people that she had taken This boy as her student. Wincing slightly at her use of his informal name for introductions, his mind rationalized the idea quickly. Most people had trouble speaking his native tongue, so his name would have merely confused the Kiffar, most likely. Arichi was a much simpler name.

Bowing to them as his Master had made her announcement, the excitement in their voices was more then enough to tell him that this was a rather big event in their lives. Even though Meira had gone off, into the Galaxy, as they crowded around Master and apprentice, Jon'arichi'kotokk got the Distinct impression that they shared a special sort of glee at their Kin's successes. His smile wane as they encircled them, the Chiss boy did his hardest to restrain the natural paranoia and worry that plagued him in such situations. Meira's touch, however, was reassuring, and as the two were swept into the smaller, grounded city, he felt...at ease.

The song that swept into the air, carried aloft by the Hands and voices of Meira's people was amazing, especially in the ears of the young Padawan. Such emotion, such life, it was just a beautiful thing to listen to, and felt like it were a gift, the gift of song. Arichi had no clue where they were being taken, nor what the song meant, but he found himself...simply not caring. It was a beautiful day here, the people were friendly, and He was with his master. Content with his life, at the moment, the Chiss began to hum along, not quite ready to attempt the words with his own Guttural accent.

[Meira]

As the crowd moved and sang and compelled the two forward, Meira smiled, laughed, and clapped along. she remembered the same song from the last time she had visited her people, when Evos had brought her here and she recieved the clan tattoo. It had been a few years, she had been only a few years older than Arichi at the time. But not much had changed. Some of the children were taller, some with the tattoo, but the sights, the smells of the town were the same.

Movement ceased when they reached the central square. Paved in large smooth stone slabs and surrounding the large fountain the square was open and welcoming. The crowd sang the last verse of the song, repeating it a few times before the notes died away, carried off on the slight breeze.

At that point the crowd seemed to move back slightly as a man and a woman came forward. The man, standing a full head taller than the woman at first glance might mistakenly be taken as young, middle age at most. But as he neared, signs of his advanced age became more clear. His skin was loose on his frame and blotched in places. gray and white lined the dreadlocks that were knotted at the back of his head. But inspite of these signs of age, his vitality and strength were obvious.

The woman, obviously his wife by the subtle glances the two shared here and there, also carried her age with a flawless grace that could only be bred into someone of status. She held her head high and her gaze was warm, welcoming, and yet carried a power undeniable. At their appearance, the crowd seemed to hush itself in anticipation. The man spoke first.

Meira Valli! It warms our hearts to see you again!

He stepped forward, placing his hands on her shoulders. Meira bowed her head slightly as the man kissed her forehead. The woman stepped forward then as the man stepped back. Her two hands alighted on Meira's upper arms and she kissed both of Meira's cheeks.

Welcome home, daughter of the Valli.

Meira smiled and bowed her head slightly to both of them. She knew her padawan, cautious as he was, would follow suit so her eyes never turned to him to check.

Thank you Arik Terum, Arikia Somi. She said, nodding her head to the chief and then his wife. Then she turned to Arichi, placing her hand on his shoulder. This is Jon'arichi'kotokk, Arichi, my padawan. Meira had become somewhat better at pronouncing the boy's full name, but she was sure she could still use more work to get it right. But now that the formal introduction was out of the way, it would not be necessary.

The chief and his wife smiled warmly, then each stepped forward to greet him. Terum took the boy's forearm with one hand and placed his other on Arichi's shoulder.

Welcome you Jedi.

He then stepped aside, allowing his wife to step forward. She greeted him the same as she had greeted Meria.

We are glad to have you. She then turned back to Meira. We are so proud to see that you follow so well in your uncle's path. Evos must be smiling with our ancestors.

Meira smiled at the words, taken off guard slightly. But she didn't have to respond. Terum had raised his voice and his hands to address the crowd. He called for a feast to be prepared so that in the evening they might propely welcome home a daughter of the Valli and their new friend. The crowd cheered and immediately began to move in many directions to prepare for the evening's feast. Meira and Arichi were ushered forward into a large building at the head of the square, the clan's council building.

[10Tickler]

Continuing to be prodded and pushed forward, Arichi's steps quickly matched time with the beat, with those of his Master, whom he could see was rather engrossed in her own memories of this, her homeworld. It didn't take long, but soon the song ended, and the crowds stopped moving, backing away from Arichi and his master. Watching as two figures descended into the crowds, which seemed to part as though the two were a chisel or a wedge, driven through them. It was clear for the Padawan to see that they were respected.

The tension of the moment getting to him, the Chiss boy could feel his breathing becoming ragged, the mild Asthma that had affected him his entire life acting up. Reaching into his robes, he removed a small device, triggering it twice, the Gaseous mixture inside calming his airways, just in time for him to look up and see his Master's bowed head. Eyes opening wide, hoping that he hadn't made a Foux pas before those who were obviously the Elders of the Valli, the Chiss bowed his own head.

His head rising once more as he felt the Hand grasp his forearm, Arichi instinctively clutched back, fighting off the urge to gasp roughly as the second hand clapped against his shoulder. T..thank You he stammered in his stressed, guttural and now somewhat broken basic. It is an. Ho...honod? to be here he finished, clamping up just as the Female elder came forth, her lips pressing against his cheeks.

As she stepped away, Arichi heard the call for a Feast for the Kiffar's guests, and blushed slightly, his cheeks turning a deep purple. All this? For Jedi? he thought to himself, not really used to this sort of treatment.

Looking to his master, for some sort of Guidance, the best he could muster was a goofy-looking smile. It seems that they missed you Master he said softly, looking around him, at all of the faces.

[Meira]

The two Jedi were ushered inside the Council building, and Meira smiled and nodded at her padawan's comment. Taking in his expressions, Meira recognized much of her own first reactions in Arichi. At one point in her life, this was all very new to her as well. Thankfully, Terum and Somi showed Meira and Arichi to a receiving room and then dismissed themselves. Now alone, Meira was happy to do some explaining for her padawan's sake.

The Valli are a small clan compared to others on Kiffu. Because of that, they're pretty much left to their own devices, because the other clans don't see the Valli as any threat to their position. Other clans might see it as a mark of shame, but the Valli see it differently.

Meira moved over to a blank wall. It seemed somewhat out pf place in the room, which was well furnished with comfortable chairs and colorful rugs. But when she touched a control at the side of the wall, it was clear why the space had been left blank. A holo projector blinked to life, and images of obvious Valli clan members appeared on the wall. Along side the images, short descriptions, giving their name and place within the clan could be seen. Meira moved in closer, and by dragging her hand along certain parts of the wall, she scrolled through the images.

The Valli see their place and are content with it because it allows them to focus on what they consider the most important parts of life: Family and History. These are the things that make the Valli who they are.

With a smile, Meira brought up one particular figure and stepped back. Her own eyes searched the face of the holo image, and for a moment, she simply stood silent. The man depicted on the wall was tall and athletic looking. His hair hung in long dreadlocks over his shoulders, with some pulled back to be out of his face. His eyes were the same emerald green as Meira's and his smile was kind. Next to the figure, the caption read:

Evos Valli
Jedi Knight
1363 AHW-1398 AHW

After a few moments, Meira's voice broke the silence that had settled in the room.

I wish you could have met him Arichi. He was a great man and an even greater teacher. He was also my uncle. He knew that family and history would be important for me to grow. As a Kiffar, and a Valli, these people are an essential element of my identity. Evos believed, as I believe, that as Jedi, we can often detach ourselves too much from the galaxy. We need something to remind us why we serve the Order. For me, serving the Order means serving my people.

I'm telling you this, Arichi, because I believe we all need that anchor. You may not know what it is now, but it is something you will need to search for as you grow.

[10Tickler]

As the Chiss stood, not wanting to sit, he watched his master's movements, his eyes ne'er leaving her form, her motions telling him slightly more than even her words could. Meira was a Fantastic master, in his opinion at least, but she had loved Evos, he had been her family, and in the Structure-centric mind that Arichi possessed, that was confusing. The Jedi's ethos was one of Limited or no attachment, and yet... Setting his jaw firmly, he shook his head. Arichi would not question his master, the woman was Strong and every part of her history was not his to learn.

His tongue gracing his lips gently, Arichi merely looked at her as she spoke, waiting for her to finish her own words before adding his own to their conversation. Deep cerulean lids fell over his crimson eyes as he spoke, his words coming from deep within as he pondered what she said. "History...I can see how that would be important" his lips uttered, reminding him of how little he knew of himself, and of his people. Was he, he had to wonder, alone in the Galaxy? Or were there more like him, with Red eyes and heated blood coursing through their veins.

"Your Uncle was a wise man" he finally said, a smile crossing his pale lips. "For if not, how would I possess a Master so understanding and tolerant of my constant questioning?" his quip causing him to giggle slightly at the Absurdity of their pairing. "And who will help me to discover myself in the coming years as well" he added, his youthfulness a major block in his mind.

[Meira]

After ending her impromptu speech, Meira studied her padawan for his reaction. She wondered how the boy would react to hearing about her uncle. Her story was not typical of the Jedi, and that fact might seem unsettling to him. Meira was still young enough to well remember her training as a youngling. She remembered how rigorously the masters emphasized the Jedi codes. Her relationship with her master had been a matter of debate among the Council itself, and for her, it had been cause for many hours of meditation in which Meira searched for guidance from the Force. She was given peace of mind in knowing that she could trust herself to bond with her master without breaking the Jedi code. In the end, it came down to her own confidence in herself. And in truth, Evos had been a major part in building that confidence. Meira could only hope that one day Arichi might say the same thing about her.

As the boy processed her words, Meira reached out to that connection that she could already tell was growing strong between them. Through the Force, she searched to feel his emotional reactions. She could feel confusion at first, but it dissipated quickly. A hint of sadness followed, and Meira had a guess as to why. It was hard not to notice the young padawan. He was quite different than those around him, now more than ever. He must feel so isolated sometimes. His sadness echoed in her heart for a moment before she converted it to a sense of calm which she sent back to him subtly.

Just then, a thud was heard beyond the doorway to the room, followed by giggles. Meira turned her head in that direction, eyebrow arched with curiosity. With a wave of her hand, the door opened and on the other side three young Valli, about Arichi's age stood, cheeks blushing at being caught at the door. Meira furrowed her eyebrows at them as if to chastise their misbehavior, but the smile on her lips contradicted her brow, and the children laughed. And so did she.

Aroha Mai Meira. The children said in unison, casting their eyes downward but unable to suppress their grins. Then, one of the children looked up at Arichi. He aha pea he mahi mā tāua?

Nah. Meira said, shaking her finger at the boy. Tēnā koa, basic.

Sorry Meira. He said with a giggle. Come play with us? He tried again, looking at Arichi. All three children gazed at Arichi with hopeful eyes. Meira smiled. She knew it was only a matter of time before the children came in to sweep him away. She was already turning away, as if she remembered something she had to do.

Oh that's a good idea. Why don't you go with them Arichi? I've got to speak to Arik Terum anyway. It'll be boring. You'll have more fun with them. She paused, as if pondering the thought. Yeah, go with them. I'll see you at dinner. With that, she left the room, leaving Arichi with the boys.

Come on! One cried before turning and the three ran off laughing, waving their arms for Arichi to follow.

[10Tickler]

Watching her watching him, it was an interesting experience. As he studied her features, she had studied his as well. They may have been Master and Padawan, but they still really didn't know all that much about one another, and, while their connection, through the Force was growing...it was still a Fledgling. Nodding to Meira's words, Arichi simply acquiesced. Perhaps, through her unorthodox education as a Padawan, she had been able to find some sort of Wisdom that was uncommon among the Jedi Order. Perhaps not, either way, it would benefit her own Padawan, or at least that's what the Chiss boy thought, considering the idea.

Hearing the thudding noise outside of the door, Arichi was snapped from his own thoughts suddenly, watching as his master's hand extended, the door flowing open smoothly with the aid from the Force. While he wasn't surprised by the trio on the other side, he was curious as to what the three were saying to Meira. Hearing his master say the word “Basic” to the children, he looked from her to them, listening as they actually began to speak in Basic.

Offered the escape plan by Meira, Jon'arichi'kotokk's eyes narrowed as he considered the option, his lips coming together as he considered the idea...the word itself. Play, master? What sort of games? he asked, his question falling to the side as the Trio started dashing off. Eyes widening, Arichi fell low, allowing himself to calm down as he sprinted after the other children, following them as closely as he possibly could, without overtaking them. He didn't need to be getting lost, not today.

[Meira]

Oma! Oma! Come on!

The children laughed as they led Arichi, racing through the primitive streets of the small village until they came to a square, somewhat smaller than the main square. Here there were many more children all gathered in different groups in the open space. Some adults spotted the crowd, making it fairly plain that this area was used as a school ground. Arichi would be met by a number of smiling faces, turning as he entered the square. The smaller children stared, the older children and adults, remembering their manners, glanced and then turned away and back to their tasks.

The children leading the young padawan came skidding to a halt near what appeared to be a pile of sticks. Upon closer inspection, one would find that those sticks had been decorated with simple designs, marking them as more than trash. The children scooped these sticks up, some tossing them up and down in their hands. They eyed each other, then Arichi, as if trying to decide something.

Ui hei. One child said to another, pushing him forward toward Arichi. The boy furrowed his brow at his friend for pushing, but turned back to Arichi with a smile.

Play tititorea with us? We show you.

Without waiting for an answer, the boy placed two of the decorated sticks in Arichi's hand, then stepped back a pace and sat down on his knees. Two others followed suit, one sat next to Arichi and another across from that one.

Do what I do. The boy said to Arichi, and the children began a song.

As they sang, the children began to move the sticks in a pattern, tapping them against the ground, clapping them together, etc. The children kept the song at a slow pace at first, allowing their new friend to adapt. Others soon came to watch the game, standing in a semi-circle around the group and joining in on the song.

((Translations: Oma = run, Ui hei = ask him. Also, here's a link for the tititorea game so that you can get a general idea of what the hell I was talking about: clicky!))

------------------------------------------------------------------------

While Arichi was immersed in the culture of the Valli, Meira made her way through the main building in search of Arik Terum. Their stay could not be too long. They were here to collect songs, many of which Meira knew were stored in the village archives, but she hoped that they might be able to record some live. Since it had already been determined that there would be a feast that night, Meira decided it would be as good a place as any to take the recordings. A song sung for a purpose, such as a feast, always carried with it more meaning than one sung in a recording studio.

Rounding a corner, Meira heard the voices of Arik Terum and Arikia Somi. Their tone caused the young knight to pause in her advance. From this distance, and even without the aid of the Force, Meira could sense the emotion in Somi's voice as she spoke with her husband, Terum. Though half of Meira's mind called for her to turn away and seek her audience with the Arik at another time, one phrase held Meira's feet fast to the ground.

((In Kiffu)) Terum I cannot look at her anymore!

Her voice broke at the end, as if her mouth had been covered. Terum's voice soon followed and Meira inched closer to the door.

Somi, you know you cannot do this. Evos made us swear.
Evos is dead Terum! And she is soon to follow I can feel it in my bones!
You cannot know that Somi.
I can! A mother knows! I lost her once, and when Kaven left... Terum my heart aches for my children!
Kaven made his choice, Somi.
No help from his father in that choice.
What was I supposed to do? I cannot cage him. He is a man. I can only pray that time will soften his heart.
Why are you so happy to see your children gone from here!? Did you not love them?
SOMI!

The soft concern of Terum's voice changed so quickly to a barely controlled anger. Meira held her breath as she listened. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes, not yet past the brink of falling. The words had not been spoken yet, but she knew. She knew what was to come. Part of her still begged to turn away, to not hear, to remain ignorant. But she could not move. When Terum spoke again, his voice was softer, better controlled

Kaven is my son, I want nothing in the world more than to see him returned to me, to his place as Arik after I have gone from this place.
And what of Meira?
Meira has a gift only a few can call their own. I long to hear the word father from her lips. But hers is a greater calling Somi. I cannot take that away from her just to satisfy my own desires. And neither can you.

Only soft sobs followed. Meira suddenly found her feet and scrambled from the spot. She moved back along the corridor until she found a door. She escaped into the air and sun, finding herself in what appeared to be a garden of sorts. She collapsed there by the wall of the building, her chest heaving as she gasped for air. All of Evos' careful work was for naught. That fragile peace, that careful ignorance was now shattered.

[10Tickler]

The Game, if that was what it was, was fairly simple in the basics, Clacking the sticks against the ground, together. Although his knees started to hurt, unused to the Position on the ground, Arichi still watched, allowing his hands to follow the actions. The song was a simple one, repeating the same few words in the Kiffu tongue, which was still beyond him, so the Padawan merely kept himself silent, mimicking the actions as best as he could and enjoying the music.

Soon, the other children, still singing, began to use more acrobatic motions with the sticks, tossing them one way and then another, avoiding Arichi as best as possible until he was ready. The Chiss boy was astonished. Such grace, such culture, it was an intellectual's heaven! Soon he was following the beat far better than he had been when the...game started, and was tossing his sticks as well, much to the Glee and joy of the Children around him.

They were almost a Half-hour into the game when something began to niggle at the back of his mind, causing him to lose focus for a moment, regaining it quickly and catching his tossed stick before it hit the earthen ground, causing the children who had gathered to watch to clap their hands with glee. They were excited, he was an Offworlder, who was seeming to enjoy this activity almost as much as they did, and he had managed to keep up as well. Still though, in the back of his mind, something worried Arichi.

Forcing the worry back down his throat, Arichi smiled broadly, not wanting to worry his new...friends? Perhaps this was the word, but then again, at the moment, it didn't matter. As the First song came to a close, Arichi bowed his head. I..I am sorry my friends he said, his tone truly regretful. I...something's telling me that I have something to do he added, explaining to the best of his ability. With that, he stood, bowing his head and body at the waist. This was an...Cr'ylajic...um..Experience, one I enjoyed and will not soon forget. Thank you he added, always polite.

With that, he turned, walking slowly away.

It wasn't until he was out of the Children's sight that Arichi began to run, the Force tugging at his mind, something wasn't right. He only had a small connection with his Mentor, his Master, yet something told him that Meira...something wasn't right. Even through that small connection, he had felt a twinge of powerful emotion, sadness that had filled his mind, filling him with worry.

Master Meira had seemed to be so Strong, so able to handle anything before, but as he Searched for her, it wasn't that he was doubting his master...but that he felt that the situation would have to be immense to elicit such a response. It took him several minutes, but Arichi finally found the Main Building, larger than most of those around it. Pushing through the massive doors, he narrowed his dark brows. Master he called softly, his words echoing through the halls.

[Meira]

For the first few moments...hours... days that Meira sat there against the wall, she was nothing. Blank, empty, she pulled in air as if it might fill the void. She'd lost that identity, that nameless relation that she was to her people. It was gone, replaced by something far too personal, too close. Already Meira's new revelation had upset that natural calm that so identified her personality. It was as if something had upset the balance within her, and she wasn't sure how to right it again.

But with the air that she gasped in came the oxygen that fueled her brain. The initial vertigo inducing adrenalin rush soon began to subside as her body realized that it was no, had not been, in any real danger. As that energy cocktail worked its way out of her system, Meira was able to move beyond that ever so basic fight or flight instinct and regain her higher mental capacities. Soon, she was reciting the code to herself. She repeated one particular part now, making it her mantra.

There is no emotion, there is peace. There is no emotion, there is peace...

Meira willed her heart rate to slow, her muscles to relax. With eyes closed, Meira called on the Force to help her. Meira had only felt such intense emotion once before, that she could remember. When Evos had died, she'd felt a similar emptiness. But it had its differences. Then, Meira felt as if a part of her had been ripped from her very flesh. This time, she'd felt as if she'd disappeared entirely. Slowly, she examined the emotion, a little at a time. She knew that things could never be the same from this moment. Meira would have no choice but to leave Kiffu and never come back. She could not allow herself to gain any more attachment to these people. Evos had tried to provide Meira with that delicate balance, but without him there to help shield her, the balance had broken.

Meira stood then, firm in her decision. She would leave, would return to the temple and seek guidance. Immediately the image of Master Took came to mind. He was, in her eyes, a mentor, as Evos had been. He would be able to help her, would know the words that could soothe her soul, calm her heart. This discovery would take years to come to terms with, but Master Took would be able to set her on the right path toward that recovery. Of that, she was certain.

Master

Meira's ears caught the word that her Padawan called, faint as it was to her at this distance. Instantly, her heart sent a pang through her body. Arichi had come for her. She could sense the concern from him. She felt slightly ashamed. Had she lost such control that Arichi had felt her trouble, even at such a distance? The thought caused the young knight to almost physically clamp down her mind in an effort to regain that control. Straightening her clothes, Meira turned and reentered the building, moving in the direction of her padawan. She would have to leave this planet, her people... and her parents. But first she had to uphold the promise she'd made to Arichi. They were here to collect the songs of the Valli. And they would do that.

Rounding a corner, Meira spotted the boy. She smiled at the sight of him. Though she was deeply troubled by what she'd just overheard, Meira's heart was warmed to know his dedication, which was evidenced by his coming to check on her.

Here, Arichi. She said, approaching the Chiss padawan. She paused a moment, debating what to say next. Should she ignore the reason why he came? Tell him everything? No, she didn't need to tell him everything. But she couldn't lie to him either. I am sorry I troubled you. I came across some startling information. I should not have allowed my emotions to escape like that. She might not have meant to, but Meira exuded an energy that would warn Arichi not to ask further questions on the matter.

Did you enjoy playing with the children? Not many people visit the Valli village. They don't get to see too many outsiders.

[10Tickler]

Arichi had no such ideas, he wasn't planning on asking his master anything about what had happened...rather he had just been worried, hoping that he could help, as it may be, and coming to check and see if Meira had wanted to go or something. When she inquired about his time playing the game, the Chiss boy's Azure face split with a wide grin. It was amazing, with the beat, and everything...it's obvious that Music is important to your people Master he told her.

The tension in the air, between master and pupil was somewhat obvious however. From her tone, how she held her body, and the feelings that the Chiss boy was getting through the Force...it seemed pretty obvious that she didn't feel like remaining here for too long. It left the poor Cerulean child confused, unsure about what to do next. So he went with his best guess, the one that seemed to make people happier in General. Master... he began, unsure how to phrase the next bit, both in order to avoid seeming as though he were making a negative statement about her culture and people, but also to avoid her thinking that he disapproved of her actions and emotions.

If you'd rather not stay here for long, I can always return later on, acquire samples of Your people's songs and History by myself when I am older he said, hoping that it came across right. I could understand if...perhaps this place felt...wrong he added, remembering her Uncle, her own master.

Looking away, his Red-hued eyes gazed upon the simple walls and floors, avoiding her Gaze. Hoping that he hadn't offended Meira in some way. From what Jon'arichi'kotokk had seen, the Valli, and the Kiffu in general were a proud people...he didn't need to lose his master over something insensitive.

[Meira]

Meira could not help but smile as Arichi spoke. She could feel his compassion for her, his understanding. He understood more than he might have thought, she realized. He was also comforting far beyond his knowledge of the act. For the first time, it seemed, the Padawan calmed the teacher. It was obvious now to Meira, if it hadn't been before, that the Force had brought them together for a purpose. Arichi was meant to help her as much as she was meant to help him. It was a humbling lesson. One that Meira accepted thankfully.

When Arichi offered the opportunity to leave, Meira considered it seriously. She knew herself enough to know that the longer they stayed, the harder it would be for Meira to keep herself separate from her family. More specifically, she knew that her emotions would reign. To walk into a situation like that, knowing what it might cause was dangerous, not physically, but emotionally. What if she could not let go? Were she here alone, the consequences might not be so severe. Worst would be that she would leave the Order, return her lightsaber to the temple, and take her place among the clan.

Meira's eyes looked down on Arichi. She was not here alone. Like a pebble in a pond, her choices and actions caused ripples, affecting all around her. Who could predict what leaving the Order would do to him? Even if she sent him back to the temple to deliver her lightsaber and the news, such a thing might cling to him through the years. At the very least, it might plant a seed of doubt in a mind far too young to know what to do with it. Such a seed could take poisonous roots, siphoning the mind of clarity.

But could she control herself long enough to help Arichi get what they came for? Perhaps.

Don't worry Arichi. She said, placing her hand on the boy's shoulder. We can stay for this evening's feast. There will be plenty of music to collect. We will leave in the morning, though, so enjoy tonight thoroughly. Such pleasant vacations aren't ideal for training. We will have to be getting back to the more boring stuff right away.

<<//\\Later That Evening//\\>>

After Azurbani had completely set on the horizon and the stars became visible in the sky, the Valli village had come to life. Lights floated in the streets, children ran through the crowds, the shrill sound of their laughter carrying through the air along with the succulent aromas of fine cuisine. The adults too seemed younger than their years, laughing and shaking their heads as the children ran past.

The central square was decorated with lights, flowers, and many tables. These tables were set low to the ground, with cushions around them for people to sit on. Special lights had been placed in the fountain, causing the water to take on different colors as it danced in the air. A large open area had been set aside for music and dancing On a small platform at the head of this area, a table sat above the others. Here, Meira and her Padawan now sat. The feast would soon begin.

Arik Terum stood up from his table, which sat not far from Meira and Arichi's place of honor. As he stood, the crowd grew quiet in anticipation of hearing him speak. Meira knew the words that would be spoken. They were the traditional opening to such events. She leaned in close to her Padawan so that she might translate for him. These words were always recited in Kiffu, after all.

MA TE WHAKATAU KA MOHIO
By discussion comes understanding,
MA TE MOHIO KA MARAMA
By understanding comes light,
TE MARAMA KA MATAU
By light comes wisdom,
MA TE MATAU KA ORA
By wisdom comes life.

The crowd cheered and soon, food was being brought to all the tables, wine was being poured into cups, and at the edge of the open space, a small group seemed to be preparing for something.

In this case, Arichi, Meira said as she began to cut into a bit of meat. ...discussion translates more to sharing, or doing something together and...

But Meira couldn't finish her statement, as that small group had now taken the floor in the open space. The musicians arranged themselves around the dancers and prepared to start a song.

OH! Start the holorecorder! You'll like this!

((Here's the song, I don't want to type it all out))