Faction Guardians of the Galaxy (TJO/Jedi)

[Zark San Tekka]

GALLO MOUNTAINS
Connel Vanagor Balun Dashiell Bettany Sal-Soren Jared Starchaser Feng Huang Braze Ko Vuto

Master San Tekka drove another piton into sheer cliff face. Once he was anchored the Jedi Master risked a glance down below at the trail of Temple Guard candidates who vowed to undertake this unorthodox physical Trial. Climbing one of Naboo's largest mountains demanded much from both the body and mind. When they reached the summit, he would witness them take sacred oaths to defend this world and others like it across the galaxy.

Old instincts urged Zark to have another look around before he kept climbing. Familiar wingspans on the horizon were growing closer fast. He activated a comlink tuned to the same frequency as the candidates.

"Bogwings incoming," San Tekka warned the other Jedi, "They're fiercely territorial. Be prepared to defend yourselves."

Naboo bogwings could be more dangerous than they looked. Razor sharp talons more than capable of lacerating flesh and the little creatures could carry up to nine times their own weight. Lightsabers cut them down easily enough, but they were agile and hunted in flocks. Strange reptilian cries echoed off the mountainside.

He needed to push them harder than what most Jedi considered an acceptable risk. Forging a Knight of the Temple Guard meant teaching them more than just combat skills. To let go of all their fears and serve something greater. The Order could not train an army of soldiers, but it still needed champions more than ever. Those who made it to the peak would swear to help him bear this burden so that other Jedi didn't have to.