Character
The Wandering Light settled gently onto the designated landing pad, its engines winding down with a familiar hum that Iriana Vael had come to associate with the end of one journey and the beginning of another. Beyond the viewport, the Jedi Praxeum stretched out beneath the Chalactan sky. It was a welcome sight, even if the Tholothian Jedi had never quite grown accustomed to the idea of leaving someone behind. Especially someone who had already been left behind once.
Iriana remained seated for a few moments after the ship had landed, considering the young Echani Padawan who had become an unexpected passenger aboard her vessel. Yani Selan had endured more than any student should have been asked to endure. The events on Thyferra, the loss of her Master, and the uncertainty surrounding Sokneri Vipaba's fate had left wounds that would not be easily healed. Iriana had made a promise to the girl. She intended to keep it.
But keeping that promise did not mean dragging Yani into every dangerous corner of the galaxy while searching for her missing Master. The Padawan needed stability, companionship, and an opportunity to continue her training. Things that the Wandering Light, for all its comforts, could not adequately provide.
By the time they descended the boarding ramp, Iriana had settled upon what she hoped was the right decision. "Well, Yani. Here we are." There was a gentle warmth to her expression as she gestured toward the Praxeum grounds. "I imagine this place is rather different from what you've grown accustomed to. But there are Jedi here who can help you continue your training. Other Padawans as well. Perhaps even a few who could use a friend." She paused, allowing the younger woman an opportunity to take in her surroundings. "I'm going to find someone responsible for overseeing the Praxeum and discuss your circumstances. In the meantime, you're welcome to explore. Get a feel for the place. You needn't remain at my side the entire time." A faint smile tugged at her lips. "And before you ask, no, this doesn't mean I'm abandoning our search. I haven't forgotten my promise to you." Iriana had no intention of offering reassurances she could not guarantee. She did not know when they would find Sokneri, or even what condition the Mon Calamari Master might be in when they did. Nevertheless, she would continue looking.
As Yani prepared to venture off, Iriana turned her attention toward LUMI-7, who had accompanied them down the ramp. The Jedi said nothing. She simply gave the droid a particular look, accompanied by the slightest inclination of her head toward the Padawan.
LUMI's photoreceptors flickered. "Of course, Mistress Iriana. I believe a comprehensive examination of the Praxeum's facilities would be most beneficial. Particularly those pertaining to student accommodations, medical services, and recreational opportunities."
Iriana raised an eyebrow. "How very thorough of you, LUMI."
"Thoroughness is among my more admirable qualities." The droid gave an almost imperceptible tilt of its head before moving to accompany Yani, maintaining a respectful distance rather than hovering conspicuously at her shoulder.
Iriana watched them depart. She trusted Yani to conduct herself appropriately. That was not the issue. The Padawan had demonstrated considerable determination and independence, qualities that would serve her well as a Jedi. But the nightmares aboard the Wandering Light had troubled Iriana more than she had let on. Their cause remained unclear, and until she understood what was happening, she preferred that someone familiar with Yani remain close. LUMI understood the assignment without needing it explained. Once the pair had disappeared farther into the grounds, Iriana adjusted the folds of her robes and turned toward the main Praxeum buildings.
It had been some time since she had walked into a Jedi institution with the intention of seeking its leadership. Her departure from the New Jedi Order had not been born of hostility, but neither had it been entirely without disagreement. The Lantern Path represented a different approach to serving the Force, one that did not always fit comfortably within the expectations of more established Jedi organizations. Still, she hoped that such differences would not matter today.
A young Padawan needed a place to belong. A missing Jedi Master needed to be found. Those were matters that should transcend any philosophical differences. Iriana approached the main entrance, offering a courteous nod to those she passed. Rather than interrupting the first Jedi she encountered with a lengthy explanation, she sought someone who might direct her toward the Praxeum's senior Masters.
"Excuse me," she began, her voice carrying its customary warmth. "My name is Iriana Vael. I've arrived with a young Padawan who may require the assistance of your Praxeum. I was hoping to speak with one of the Masters responsible for overseeing the students here." She offered a small, patient smile. "There are some rather unusual circumstances surrounding her arrival. I think it would be best if I explained them personally." For now, Iriana would leave the decision of whom she should meet to those who knew the Praxeum best. She could only hope they would be willing to hear her out.
IRIANA VAEL
• Location: New Jedi Praxeum, Chalacta• Objective: Request a spot for Yani
• Outfit: Normal Robes
• Company:
Yani Selan
| LUMI-7 | Praxeum residentsNO LIGHT IS TRULY LOST