Private The Art of One

[Palm-Imer]

S H A R I N G
♫​

WEARING: Soll'nav robes, shades of grey embroidered amber.
TAG: Valery Noble

The Navah-Xae perched majestically over this lush forest valley, a sanctuary of renewal and reflection, and a far cry from the harsh reality that had befallen the previous main seat of the Order of the Art of One in the planet's region of Advena.

It was a marvel of integration, almost blending into the kaleidoscopic landscape that unfolded around it. Constructed from a blend of light brown stone and shimmering golden accents, the academy had nothing to envy the nature around it in terms of beauty. The stone walls were alive with intricate carvings of celestial patterns and life-affirming symbols, their soft glow casting a gentle, otherworldly light across the grounds. It was an architectonical display of the balance and vibrancy its inhabitants worked diligently to cultivate.

The academy was encircled by a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. Towering ancient trees climbing high like only geminian trees could, their leaves a tapestry of verdant greens that created a natural cathedral, their branches rustling with a soothing symphony under the soft wisps of wind. Beneath this canopy, crystal-clear streams sparkled and danced through gardens bursting with colorful, exotic blooms before they fell in waterfalls. The air was filled with the sweet scent of these flowers and the cheerful chirps of native avian species, whose songs wove a melodious chant. The gardens were alive with activity—flitting butterflies, playful small creatures, and the joyful laughter of young initiates.

Inside the Navah-Xae, the atmosphere was just as buzzling, a light and warm embrace created by those within. The main hall, with its high vaulted ceilings, was adorned with colorful tapestries depicting the rich history and philosophy of the Order. The polished stone floor reflected the soft light of hanging lanterns, which cast playful, dancing shadows across the walls. The space was not only a place of learning but a vibrant community hub, where laughter and conversation mingled with the soft hum of the Force.

The Soll'nav themselves carried on across the halls with a lively grace, their grey robes adorned with intricate personal markings and bright accents of their own choosing that made each one of them stand out in their own way - a blend before uniformity and individuality. Their movements were fluid and full of purpose, their faces alight with the joy of sharing their knowledge and traditions. The young initiates, with their eager expressions and boundless energy, practiced their techniques with a sense of wonder and excitement. Their exercises, a blend of intricate dance-like forms and focused meditation, were as much about exploration and discovery as they were about discipline.

Palm, in her role as a teacher and mentor, embodied this spirited energy. Although her role as a Sovereign often kept her away from the academis, it could have well been a distant memory the moments she did get here. Her approach was once again characterized by a genuine warmth and enthusiasm. Today, she guided a group of younglings through a series of meditative exercises, they were the first to resume their training ever since the rebellion. Her voice, rich and melodious, resonated with the energy of someone deeply connected to the vibrant life around her. She spoke of balance and harmony with a twinkle in her eye, her lessons infused with the anecdotes and insights she had acquired during her travels, making her teachings come alive.

The recent rebellion had been a transformative period for the Soller-Navah, pushing them to reconsider their stance upon welcoming back a leader that had in many ways, failed them, and to embrace a more open and inclusive perspective. The destruction of their previous academy had been a catalyst for this change, prompting a reevaluation of their approach to the Force. In the wake of this upheaval, the Order had moved to purposefully open its doors. The soll'nav had always looked down upon Geminidae's choice to cut themselves off from the galaxy around them, and now it was their first true chance to welcome new ideas and perspectives not through barriers or hurdles, but with a sense of eager anticipation.

Palm’s personal journey mirrored this broader transformation. Having regained her standing and honor within the Order, the Sovereign had embraced her role as Soll’relath with renewed vigor only short years ago once the rebellion came to an end. In her eyes, the decision to extend an invitation to Valery Noble, Grandmaster of the Jedi Order, to join them on their Navah'Xae and on the Geminos region of all places only cemented her vision and hope for their future.

The Soller-Navah were excited to share their teachings and philosophies, breaking free from the restrictive policies that had once defined their interactions. This was a time of transformation, a period of vibrant renewal. As Palm concluded her lesson and prepared for Valery’s arrival, she was joined by the one who had been her first master. Artem was well beyond the prime of his youth, but his wisdom was something that still moved the Sovereign in the exact same way it had when she was child, learning to hold her saber the right side up.

Geminidae was on the brink of a new era. Their order would not fall behind.

​

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Factory Link
Weapons: Double-Bladed Lightsaber

Valery's X-wing descended from above at a steady pace, guided by the voice of local air traffic control. To her surprise, an invitation had been sent by Palm-Imer to learn more about her planet and her people, and to give them both an opportunity to discuss philosophy and their views on the Force. It was a unique chance Valery didn't want to miss out on, so she had cleared her schedule and taken her fighter to travel.

From what she was able to read up on, the planet had just gone through a more chaotic time. A rebellion had shaken things up, but life was shifting back to normal.

Or, at least, she assumed that to be the case if they opened themselves to the Galaxy after a long history of being more secluded from the stars.

Soon enough, Valery's X-wing finally touched down, allowing the canopy to open. Valery emerged from within, dressed in her usual jumpsuit but with a helmet still on. She pulled it off once she climbed down the ladder, letting her long hair cascade down behind her back. She shook it out and ran a hand through it to fix it up, before tossing the helmet back inside the ship.

Finally, she was able to take a proper look around, but most importantly, her senses were opened to the lovely scent of this world and its connection to nature.

It felt much closer to home than Coruscant ever could.

Palm-Imer ​

 

[Palm-Imer]

S H A R I N G
♫​

WEARING: Soll'nav robes, shades of grey embroidered amber.
TAG: Valery Noble

As the X-wing settled gently on the landing pad, Palm-Imer stood at the edge of the forest clearing, the soft breeze carrying the mingling scents of wildflowers and fresh earth around her. Geminidae seemed to embrace the arrival of the Grandmaster, the leaves of the towering trees rustling in what felt like a welcoming whisper. Palm's Soll'relath's robes, adorned with their distinctive gold accents, flowed around her as she moved forward.

Palm's gaze was warm as she watched Valery disembark, the Jedi's long hair cascading down as she removed her helmet. It was a striking contrast—the sleek, modern fighter against the timeless beauty of the Navah-Xae's surroundings. Yet, both the Jedi and this world shared a deep connection to the Force, and Palm could sense that resonance clearly.

"Grandmaster Noble," Palm greeted with a sincere smile, her voice carrying a melodic quality that matched the serene environment around them. "Welcome to Geminidae, and more importantly, welcome to the Navah-Xae. It is a true pleasure to have you here. I must thank you for accepting our invitation. It is no small thing to take time away from your duties to be here, it is deeply appreciated." She offered a small, respectful bow, a gesture of both hospitality and recognition of Valery's esteemed position.

As Palm straightened, her eyes briefly wandered over the lush scenery, as if taking in the moment and its significance. This was one of the very first times an outsider was allowed entry into the Geminos region. "I trust your journey was smooth? Our skies can be a bit temperamental, but I hope you found the approach to our valley as welcoming as we intended."

She gestured lightly, inviting Valery to walk alongside her. "This way, please. I thought it best to take a short walk before we delve into our discussions. The Navah-Xae's gardens are in full bloom," As she spoke, a youngling came running out of nowhere, too enthralled in whatever game he was playing to notice he almost ran straight into the Sovereign. His eyes went wide as he caught himself, looking at Palm and then at the Grandmaster. Palm laughed, diffusing his tension, before urging him on to continue. She rose her eyebrows with a smile, gesturing towards the kid that scurried away, "and the energy here is particularly vibrant today. A fitting setting, I believe."

As they strolled through the serene pathways of the gardens, Palm took a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere that surrounded them. The laughter of young initiates could be heard in the distance, their joyous energy justifying the academy's purpose as a place of growth and learning. Palm let a comfortable silence fall between them, allowing Valery to take it all in as well.

Finally, Palm spoke again, her tone both curious and thoughtful. "I must admit, Grandmaster, that I've been looking forward to this. The Soller Navah, as you might know, have always viewed the Force through a unique lens, one that has evolved significantly, especially in recent years. We've begun to open our doors, not just to new ideas, but to the possibility of collaboration with others who walk different paths."

Palm's warmth still marked her tone as she added, "I trust you and yours are holding up well in these difficult times?" Palm recalled meeting her husband many years back on Dressel, she had only recently found out about his standing among the Jedi. As they continued their walk, Palm guided Valery toward one of the academy's secluded meditation spots, a place where the flow of the Force was particularly strong and the Ser'imper reigned imprinted on the very ground. Here, they could sit and begin their conversation in earnest, surrounded by the very essence of what made this place special, a perfect balance between nature, the Force, and the soll'nav teachings.

​

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Factory Link
Weapons: Double-Bladed Lightsaber

"It's my pleasure, truly," Valery said with a warm, genuine smile before she dipped her upper body to show respect and gratitude for the invitation. These meetings were always interesting and a valuable opportunity to learn. But having seen the beauty of this world in particular, Valery felt even more excited, "I'm hoping to learn much more about the planet and its people. I'm quite drawn to nature and, well, what I saw from my cockpit was stunning."

She wasn't exaggerating either.

"I do love a good walk, and I wouldn't want to miss gardens in bloom. The ones we have at the New Cov Temple are quite lovely as well this time of year." Valery followed along at a slower pace than usual, allowing her to carefully look around the gardens and enjoy their unique qualities. It drew the Jedi Master's attention so much, that she didn't notice the youngling until after he had nearly crashed into her host.

Valery blinked, but quickly chuckled and watched him run off, "Befitting and wonderful, is it not? I've always been fond of children. They add something so pure and innocent that just can't be replaced with anything else." It also added a lot of noise at times, and some accidents, but it had never bothered her.

As they walked, Palm finally began to speak about the purpose of their meeting, and Valery nodded along, "I've done some reading and I'm quite curious to learn more about the Soller Navah. Perhaps it can help me learn something new, and I'd also be more than willing to share my own perspectives." The Force was such a vast concept that different approaches to communing with it existed all throughout the Galaxy.

There was more to learn than one ever could within a lifetime.

On the topic of her husband, Valery turned her head to look at Palm and her lips almost curled into a devious little smirk, "I wasn't aware that you two met," Valery said and chuckled. "We're doing well, and so are the kids, but I must admit, now you've got me curious." She always loved to hear stories about his youth, either to tease him, or just to learn a little more about her beloved husband.

Palm-Imer ​

 

[Palm-Imer]

S H A R I N G
♫​

WEARING: Soll'nav robes, shades of grey embroidered amber.
TAG: Valery Noble

Palm-Imer smiled at Valery’s response, pleased to hear the Grandmaster’s appreciation for Geminidae’s natural beauty. Palm gestured for Valery to take a seat on the carved stone benches. The sound of a nearby stream added a gentle melody to the serene atmosphere. A low table had been set with a small selection of refreshments—fruits native to Geminidae, along with delicate cups of tea, the steam rising in delicate tendrils.

“Please, help yourself,” Palm said, her voice carrying the same warmth as before. She settled onto one of the benches, her posture relaxed yet dignified. “I’m glad you enjoyed the journey here. Geminidae’s wilderness holds a special place in our hearts, and it’s a pleasure to finally share it with those who can appreciate it.”

Palm reached for one of the cups, her thoughts briefly returning to the past as Valery mentioned her husband. The memories were distant yet vivid, colored by the circumstances of that day. “It was quite some time ago, actually,” she began, glancing at Valery with a faint smile. “I met Kahlil when he was still finding his way, long before he joined the Jedi. We crossed paths in a less-than-ideal setting—a cantina, of all places. He was on the verge of getting into a fight, and I stepped in before things escalated." She remembered she had also shared some of the soll'nav teaching with him, and how he had struggled with his own family name and who he wanted to be. "He's come a long way from that I see. It’s good to hear that he—and you—are doing well.”

Palm took a sip of her tea, letting the warmth settle before continuing. “As for the Soller Navah, our teachings have always focused on understanding oneself and the Force through personal balance. We believe that true mastery of the Force begins with mastering oneself—mind, body, and spirit. And that balance can look different from individual to individual." Palm herself was not without her licks of darkness. "This has led to the development of some fearsome duelists among our ranks, as our training emphasizes not only the physical aspects of combat but the internal alignment that allows one to channel the Force effectively.”

She paused for a moment, her gaze thoughtful. “One of the key aspects of our philosophy is the restraint we exercise with outward applications of the Force—what many would categorize as Alter abilities. The Soller Navah teach that the Force should be used sparingly in such ways, reserving it for self-defense and times of true necessity. We focus on enhancing our own beings—our speed, strength, and awareness—rather than exerting our will outwardly."

Setting the cup down, Palm leaned forward slightly, her tone reflecting the gravity of the topic. “However, with Geminidae opening its doors after so long, there is a growing interest, particularly among our younger members, in exploring other philosophies and methodologies of the Force. This shift is something of a challenge for the Soller Navah, as our traditions have been deeply rooted in isolation. Yet, there is a recognition that growth often requires change, and this visit of yours is an important step in that direction.”

Palm’s gaze met Valery’s, her expression open and sincere. “There are those among the Soller Navah who are cautious, even hesitant, about this new direction. But I hope that your presence here, your insights, and the exchange we’re about to have, will help to push this initiative forward. It’s a delicate balance we’re trying to achieve—honoring our past while embracing the future. And I believe we can learn much from each other in this.”

She offered Valery another smile, this one filled with a quiet optimism. “Now, Grandmaster, I’m eager to hear more about your perspectives. How do you see, or feel about, the Jedi Order’s role in these changing times?” These were years of war, just like the ones that had just visited her own home. Palm had often found herself thinking how the Jedi, who would otherwise be inclined to pacifism, dealt with that.

​

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Factory Link
Weapons: Double-Bladed Lightsaber

After settling on a stone bench, Valery leaned forward and poured herself a cup of tea. The scent alone was calming and comforting and paired with the planet's beauty around her, she was able to relax. Her husband turned into a topic and it only made her even more curious, which showed as she intently listened to Palm, "Getting into a fight, hm?" She smirked and had an obvious, teasing edge to her voice.

"My, that sounds like quite a story. These days, he doesn't get himself in trouble much anymore." She chuckled and brushed some loose strands of hair back behind her ear before she resumed sipping from her tea.

This was a story to bring home.

The topic then shifted and Valery seemed to get even more interested, the more Palm explained about her people and their ways with the Force. Jedi, unlike Sith or other groups of Force users, also practiced a certain restraint with the Force. Not quite as strict as the Soller Navah, but it allowed her to understand a little better.

Especially because Valery was of the more traditional Jedi when it came to use of the Force. She only used it when it was necessary, and never for selfish reasons.

"I'd be happy to offer my own perspective. In a way, Jedi training starts quite similarly — Control abilities and Sense abilities are among the first we develop. It allows us to control our Force sensitivity, so we don't cause harm on accident and so we're in control of ourselves before we hope to influence anything else." This is how she taught it to her Padawans, and she was glad that so many other Jedi practiced similar caution.

"With Alter abilities, especially those that directly influence other people, we're taught to practice restraint. I do not use the Force for selfish reasons or to put myself above another. If I affect my environment, it's so I can help other people."

Valery paused for a moment and sipped from her tea while she gave the last question some thought.

"War is what tests us most to not use the Force to do wrong. To give into temptations that give us an edge on the battlefield at the cost of our own code and morals. Our role is to defend the people and to stand up against factions that oppress and destroy, but we have to be careful that we don't lose ourselves along the way."

Palm-Imer ​

 

[Palm-Imer]

S H A R I N G
♫​

WEARING: Soll'nav robes, shades of grey embroidered amber.
TAG: Valery Noble

Palm-Imer listened intently to Valery's words, appreciating the similarities in their approaches to the Force. Her eyes briefly flickered with understanding as Valery spoke about restraint and the dangers of war. In many ways, the challenges that Valery described resonated deeply with Palm, who had experienced similar conflicts within herself during Geminidae's own dark times.

"It's comforting to hear that there are shared values between us," Palm began, her gaze softening as she considered Valery's thoughts. "This idea of restraint—whether in battle or in everyday life—serves as a tether to who we are, regardless of what we face. In the end, it's not the power we hold that defines us, but how we choose to wield it."

Palm paused for a moment, a more personal question forming in her mind. "When I returned home after many years away, I was confronted with a war I had not foreseen, and it was in those moments that I struggled the most. The lines between right and wrong became blurred, and it was difficult to reconcile what I believed with what I needed to do to protect my people." Her expression grew more serious as she leaned slightly forward. "As a leader and as a Jedi, how do you stay true to your beliefs when faced with decisions that challenge everything you've ever known? How do you make peace with what war sometimes requires of us?"

It was a delicate subject, but Palm felt that Valery's perspective as both a Jedi and a leader could shed light on something that had troubled her for a long time. The world around them remained peaceful—the stream still babbling softly, the air filled with the fragrance of fresh tea and forest blooms—but within their conversation, there was an undercurrent of gravity, a recognition of the trials that came with leadership and power.

Palm leaned back slightly, allowing Valery the space to respond, but also mentally preparing herself for the answer. This exchange felt more than just philosophical—it was personal, as if Palm was seeking to find some clarity in her own struggles by hearing how another powerful woman had navigated them. The conversation had suddenly taken a more intimate tone than she had anticipated, but it was also impossible to pass on the question.

​

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Factory Link
Weapons: Double-Bladed Lightsaber

It seemed the two women had much in common when it came to views on the Force, and in particular, their views on how they chose to wield that strength it gave them. Restraint and necessity were among those core beliefs, and Valery couldn't help but smile when another culture so far from what she considered home had developed a similar philosophy. It was the kind of mindset that kept people from using their powers to oppress and stimulated them to use it to help others instead.

More of that kindness was needed in the Galaxy.

But with this discussion, Palm also asked a more difficult question. For a moment, Valery quietly considered her words while she sipped from her tea, and finally answered when the cup settled in her lap, "When I was young, I was trained by an older Jedi Master. A very traditional one, who brought me along and showed me the Galaxy. He taught me our philosophy, but more importantly, he made sure I learned to respect and care about it."

"Whenever I made mistakes or whenever I tried to take the easy way out and compromise my beliefs, he'd challenge me for it and tried to get me to think about my decisions. Through him, I learned to hold myself to the standards we desire of our Jedi, so even just the idea of straying from that path is something that'd make my stomach turn. Back then, I just didn't want to disappoint him, but now that I'm older and wiser myself, I understand why these beliefs are so important."

Valery paused for a moment and smiled.

"As a leader, I realize that what I do, say, and believe can inspire hundreds if not thousands of other Jedi. They look up to me and other experienced Jedi, and it's that feeling of wanting to be a good example that always keeps me on the right path. I want the Jedi to succeed and to do that, I have to stay true to myself and our ways."

Another pause before she continued.

"The things that war requires of us never bothered me much because of how I was raised. I became a Jedi at a young age, and that desire to defend and protect made me understand what it takes to truly protect someone in this Galaxy. I do what I do, knowing it's just and right because I stay true to my beliefs, and I know that it's the only way to keep people safe without turning into the very thing I'm trying to protect them against."

Palm-Imer ​

 

[Palm-Imer]

S H A R I N G
♫​

WEARING: Soll'nav robes, shades of grey embroidered amber.
TAG: Valery Noble

Palm listened intently to Valery's words, nodding in agreement as the memories of her past flooded her mind. Valery's wisdom about leadership and staying true to one's beliefs stirred something deeper within Palm, drawing her back to her own two masters.

Artem-Lahs, her mentor within the Soller Navah, had guided her through the teachings of her people with patience and wisdom, always encouraging balance and restraint. He had been the figure that anchored her in the most difficult times, teaching her that the Force, like life itself, was about harmony—about never letting power consume the self.

Then there was Gerwald, her mentor during her time as a Knight Obsidian. Their bond had been different, rooted in a shared sense of duty but complicated by emotions neither had fully voiced. He had been her anchor in a different way—steady, loyal, a warrior who fought fiercely for what he believed in. But that man was no more. Gerwald had succumbed to the dark side and become something she could no longer recognize. Now, as a member of the Sith Council, Gerwald was walking the very path that Palm feared most—the path that blurred the lines between protector and oppressor.

The pain of their separation was something Palm carried quietly, when she could. She had left him to fight her own war, and when she returned, he was lost to her. Now, in moments like this, she often wondered if she could have prevented his fall if she had stayed. Would they have held each other on their rightful paths, or had his fate always been sealed? That was a question Palm would never have an answer to, but Valery's words still brought her comfort. Perhaps, like Valery, Palm could continue to hold herself accountable, never wavering from the lessons Artem-Lahs had taught her, even when the darkness called.

Palm allowed a soft smile to settle on her lips as she responded to Valery's thoughts. "Your perspective reminds me of the teachings I hold close. There is wisdom in staying true to our beliefs, even when the temptation to compromise is overwhelming. It's comforting to hear it echoed from another leader." Her smile softened further, the heaviness of her thoughts momentarily lifting. "Thank you."

Now, the time had come to move forward. Palm knew Valery was here not only for philosophical discussions but also for an exchange of ideas that could reshape their Orders.

"The soll'nav have arranged a gathering for us," Palm began, her tone shifting to one of anticipation. "It's a tradition here, meant to honor special guests while fostering dialogue. Today, they've prepared something more interactive—a demonstration, actually. They will be showcasing some of the more reserved techniques of the Soller Navah, techniques we've developed to aid in maintaining balance and protection. After that, they hope to engage in discussion with you, to hear about your methods and approach. You may even be invited to share some of your own techniques."

Palm stood up gracefully, motioning for Valery to join her. "The demonstration will take place in one of our training courtyards, just beyond this path." She gestured towards a winding stone path that led deeper into the serene forest, where the academy's training grounds were nestled among ancient trees. "It's not meant to be a combat display—more a showcase of control and precision, skills that reflect our belief in balance. Afterward, there will be an opportunity for the soll'nav and our apprentices to ask questions and discuss philosophy with you more openly."

As they walked, Palm glanced at Valery, her expression curious. "I'm sure they're hoping to learn from your experience, especially when it comes to the more active use of the Force in combat. Things like Force pushes, telekinesis, all overt manipulations are reserved strictly for defense. But I sense that they're beginning to open their minds to the idea that such techniques could be used with responsibility rather than avoided altogether."

The peaceful sounds of the forest accompanied them as they walked, and soon the path opened up into a wide clearing where the courtyard lay. Palm could already see a group of soll'nav gathered, masters, adepts, novices, their calm yet attentive expressions signaling their readiness to begin. Apprentices stood off to the side, eagerly awaiting the demonstration, while several small stations had been set up with objects for training, meant to display the Soller Navah's unique control over the Force.

Palm turned to Valery with a smile. "Shall we?" she asked, gesturing towards the gathering. The exchange of ideas and techniques between them had the potential to bridge gaps between her Order and the Jedi—an exciting possibility that could shape the future of the Soller Navah.

​

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Factory Link
Weapons: Double-Bladed Lightsaber

Valery dipped her head and returned the woman's smile, "A long time ago, a Jedi Master called Tolaris Shim wrote a thesis called The 4 stages of the Dark Side, which outlines what a fall to the Dark Side looks like. The first of these 4 stages is called Temptation, one that every Jedi experiences." Not just every Jedi, but anybody with a connection to the Force. There was always a temptation to use the Force to find easy solutions to complicated problems. To use it for selfish reasons, rather than to practice restraint with something so powerful.

"Even just being aware of it can help us stay true to our path."

With that said, Valery went quiet and listened to Palm when she mentioned the gathering. Valery shifted to the edge of her seat, clearly curious to hear more about it, and what she was told certainly didn't disappoint. They were going to give a demonstration just for her? She smiled at the thought and rose along with the other woman, already excited to see what the Soll'nav were going to show her.

"I'm very excited to see their demonstration and I'd love to share my perspectives with them," Valery said with an eager dip of her head, as she started to follow along, "If I can share anything that will help them learn something new, I'd be happy to take my time for it. I'm sure I can learn much in return." Even if it wasn't a skill or a different ability, she always valued learning about people's views of the Force.

Different perspectives had ultimately helped her shape her own.

Soon, the winding staircase and forest path led them to a clearing, where students and Masters had already gathered to prepare their demonstration. Valery took a moment to look at each individual and offered them a grateful smile. They were spending their time to welcome her with this display, so she wanted to make it clear that she appreciated it.

"I'm ready," Valery finally told Palm, "I'm eager to see this demonstration."

Palm-Imer ​

 

[Palm-Imer]

S H A R I N G
♫​

WEARING: Soll'nav robes, shades of grey embroidered amber.
TAG: Valery Noble

As Palm led Valery into the courtyard, the setting became more vibrant with life, the serene beauty of the Navah-Xae mirroring the soll'nav's philosophy. The stone floor beneath their feet gleamed softly, and the air was filled with a calming sense of purpose as the gathered soll'nav awaited the start of their demonstration. Palm gave a small nod to the group, her presence commanding attention, though her tone was gentle as she addressed them.

The courtyard itself was a stunning sight. Framed by towering ancient trees whose bark shimmered faintly with silver, their roots intertwined with the stone beneath their feet as if nature itself had lent its strength to the foundation of the Navah-Xae. The central space was wide and open, paved with smooth, dark stones that glistened softly in the light. Surrounding it were several platforms, raised slightly above the ground, each adorned with delicate carvings that told the history of the Soller Navah and their journey toward understanding the Force.

Masters and adepts stood on one side, their robes simple but elegant, the white and grey fabrics blending seamlessly with the natural environment. Their presence exuded calm and quiet strength. Opposite them, the apprentices gathered with bright eyes, eager to witness the techniques they had been taught put on display for the esteemed Jedi Grandmaster. A soft murmur of excitement filled the air, quickly quieted as Palm and Valery approached.

Palm moved forward with a gentle nod toward the soll'nav gathered before them, offering a small gesture of reverence. Her voice, when she spoke, was steady and clear. "Thank you all for gathering today," she said, her tone warm but formal. "As you know, Grandmaster Valery Noble is a distinguished guest, and we are honored to share our teachings with her. Today, we will demonstrate some of the techniques that are central to our belief in balance and restraint."

As Palm stepped aside, one of the senior soll'nav, a tall and graceful woman named Cyras, stepped forward. Her hair was silver, matching the shimmering bark of the trees that surrounded them, and her sharp blue eyes held a quiet intensity. She greeted Valery with a small bow of respect before addressing the gathering.

The soll'nav began with a demonstration of their foundational practices, showcasing how they used the Force inwardly, enhancing their physical abilities and creating an impenetrable defense without ever reaching outward for destruction.

Cyras adopted a fluid stance, her body immediately settling into perfect alignment. The air around her seemed to still, not because she was manipulating it, but because her presence became centered, focused entirely inward. Slowly, Cyras raised one hand in a seemingly effortless motion, her movements becoming faster, sharper, but never chaotic. She had enhanced her own speed and agility through the Force, moving with a grace that was almost beyond human. The others watched her as she glided across the stone floor, her balance impeccable, her steps so precise that each one landed perfectly, despite her rapid pace.

Then, Cyras began a series of dueling forms, her body flowing through them with flawless precision. Her movements were quick but controlled, and though her weapon—a practice staff—never touched anything but air, it was evident that she was using the Force to strengthen herself, to heighten her awareness, and to make her reflexes almost preternatural. The Force surged within her, enhancing every muscle, every sense, turning her into a figure of serene but unshakable power. Cyras then closed her eyes and took a deep breath, and Palm gestured for Valery to observe closely. The air around Cyras grew still, but this stillness wasn't just external—it was as though Cyras herself had entered a different state of being.

As she began to move, it was almost as if her presence flickered. Not invisibility, but an attunement so perfect that her movements became imperceptible to normal perception. Palm explained quietly to Valery, "The soll'nav learn to tune their bodies to the flow of the Force so precisely that they can shift their presence in and out of perceptible space. This isn't just about speed; it's about harmonizing with the very energies of the Force in a way that makes them... elusive. Not unlike what the Fallanassi achieved."

Cyras' form darted through the space between the pillars, almost like a phantom. Her body bent light and sound around her just slightly, enough to make her harder to track with the naked eye. Her presence in the Force felt dulled, as if she had tuned herself down to match the ebb of the surrounding life.

As Cyras moved, Palm spoke quietly to Valery. "Our focus has always been on applying the Force inwardly—to refine ourselves, to be faster, stronger, more perceptive, but always in control. We believe that the Force should be an expression of our own, individual will, rather than a means to manipulate others or the world around us."

Cyras reappeared, moving into a slower demonstration where her body visibly pulsed with energy. She wasn't merely increasing her speed or reflexes; the Force was drawn deeper into her cells, into her very structure. Palm's voice dropped a touch lower as she explained.

"Cyras is enhancing not just her physical abilities but the way her body pulls in the Force itself. This allows us to endure far longer in combat, even without rest, food, or water for extended periods. In battle, we call this the state of 'Elation,' where fatigue is entirely bypassed, and our senses remain heightened for days without suffering the same strain that would weaken others. Outlast, outhink, and outmaneuver."

Cyras demonstrated a brief combat sequence, her movements elegant but with a sharpness that came not just from strength but from the Force subtly guiding her every muscle contraction, every twist of her wrist, and every breath. It was not raw power; it was refinement—like tuning an instrument to play perfectly in sync with the Force's rhythm.

When Cyras finished, another soll'nav, Dael, stepped forward. His approach was different from Cyras'. Where Cyras had focused on speed and agility, Dael demonstrated raw strength and resilience. His muscles tensed as he channeled the Force into his own body, fortifying himself from within. Palm pointed out that these techniques were used not only to enhance their physical abilities but to protect them from injury as well.

Dael lowered himself into a defensive stance, and two apprentices stepped forward to strike at him with staffs. Each blow that landed on Dael's body seemed to hit an immovable wall—he absorbed the impact effortlessly, his own Force-aided resilience protecting him from harm. The apprentices tried harder, striking faster, but Dael did not budge. His body had become a fortress, all through internal Force enhancement. Another soll'nav, one standing among one of the higher platforms, tensed a plasma bow - aimed directly at Dael's chest. The bolt never landed, its bright energy dissipating as though it had reached a protection field mere centimeteres away from Dael's form.

There was no aggression in the demonstration—only focus and mastery over one's own self. The apprentices withdrew, and Dael stood straight once again, offering a small bow to Valery.

Palm turned to Valery with a gentle smile. "We believe that by mastering ourselves first, we can better serve balance, both within and beyond. The techniques you just witnessed form the core of our practice—they are what make the soll'nav some of the most formidable duelists in the galaxy. Not because of what we do to others, but because of what we achieve within ourselves."

After the demonstrations of personal enhancement, Cyras returned to center stage, ready to showcase the defensive techniques that the Soller Navah reserved for moments of true necessity.

"Our outwards use of the Force we reserve for defense, and when unavoidable. I will begin with one of our foundational techniques—stasis control," Cyras said. "It is a method we use not to attack, but to pause. To suspend movement and energy in its tracks, without harm, to allow for clarity and balance to be restored."

With a subtle gesture, Cyras lifted her hand, and the air around her seemed to shift. A small, vibrant flower, resting on a stone beside her, suddenly stilled, as if frozen in time. The breeze that had been gently rustling its petals stopped entirely, the delicate plant suspended in a perfect state of stasis. Cyras held it there for a moment longer, then slowly released it, and the flower resumed its gentle swaying as if nothing had happened.

Next came Dael once more, "We also use what we call energy redirection," he explained, his voice calm and composed. He stood before a simple training target made of stone, and as he raised his hand, a surge of kinetic energy formed—a visible wave that moved with palpable force toward the target. But instead of striking it directly, Dael redirected the energy at the last moment, dispersing it harmlessly into the air. The subtle shift in his hand was all that was needed to change the course of the energy.

"It is through careful control that we avoid unnecessary destruction," Dael said, his eyes meeting Valery's.

Palm turned to Valery with a serene smile. "And these, Grandmaster, are sme of the techniques we use when we must defend. The Force, to us, is a tool to preserve balance—never to overwhelm, never to dominate. We are honored to share this with you today."

The soll'nav stepped back, their demonstration complete, and there was a palpable sense of calm and fulfillment in the courtyard. Palm motioned for Valery to step forward. "Perhaps now, you might share some of your own teachings. The soll'nav are eager to learn from your experience."

The gathered apprentices watched Valery with eager eyes, curious and excited to hear what she might offer in return. The exchange of ideas between the Jedi and the Soller Navah had begun in earnest, and Palm couldn't help but feel a flicker of hope for what this dialogue could bring to both Orders.

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