Private The Book of Yenna: Mandalorians

[Runi Kuryida]

Hefi V, Hefi System

Zlova Rue, a 'Dark' Force User, had visited Resa from time to time. Often in order to instruct Kranak Vizsla in the ways of mental defense. After one of those sessions, however, the red woman approached the Speaker of the Mandokarla with a curious proposal. Evidently the woman had made a friend with a Jedi Knight -- a most unexpected development -- that had a desire to learn more about the Mandalorian Way. This was initially problematic since Resa was on Kestri, a world the Enclave sought to not publicize to the wider galaxy as being their home; rather they wanted everyone to believe Hefi was their center. To have this Jedi Knight Yenna visit Resa would expose this secret.

Naturally, the first inclination was to meet on Hefi, but with the center of the Mandokarla in Resa -- as they were not inclined to building grand places of 'worship' -- such a deception would easily come undone. What they had on Hefi would not have the grandeur or spectacle one might expect (though even Resa was far from a golden palace). So, instead, Runi proposed Zlova bring this woman to Hefi V; as a world far out in the Hefi system it too was an icy world, but even less hospitable than Kestri. The Shaman explained she would take over the escort from there in a manner that would preserve Kestri's secrecy.

A flat patch in a valley had been leveled and cleared for the ship's arrival, and a large tent had been erected off to one side of the landing area. Runi stood outside the closed flap of the tent with her arms crossed over her chest when word came the ship was on approach. Only two others -- a female Pathfinder and male Shaman -- accompanied the Speaker to this meeting place. As this was a Jedi there was no concern of any sort of trap or betrayal; though a few expressed less certainty about the Sith-trained woman that would be ferrying the rumored Jedi to the site. They, however, had not spent as much time with the Twi'lek to understand the woman's methods. While a Dark Lord was certainly a cunning and viscous opponent, Zlova would not betray them without a need to do so. Hers was a practical application of the ravenous passion Sith wielded.

Once the ship landed and the ramp extended, Runi would gladly stride out to meet the Jedi and offer to bring them inside the far warmer tent. Though it seemed unlikely a Jedi would so easily freeze to death given their use of the 'Force.' "Welcome, Jedi Knight Yenna, I am Runi Kuryida, Speaker of the Mandokarla. I hope you will find your time among us most enlightening. Will you join me inside the tent, and all will be revealed?" Runi's strong jaw and hazel eyes were in full view of the Knight, as the Speaker left her helmet behind. With only jagged peaks to surround them, Runi hoped to allay any concerns Yenna might have about a lack of Mandokarla or Mandalorian structures or people in the nearby area; as this would only serve as a hub for their true destination.

Yenna

 

[Yenna]

Yenna was absolutely thrilled for this trip. Her backpack was packed with notebooks, datapads, scanners, recorders, anything one might need for such a fulfilling journey. Her other backpack was filled with extra robes and other personal effects, just in case she was going to stay for linger than expected. She hoped that the Enclave and this “Runi” lady didn’t mind an extended stay.

When the ship emerged from hyperspace, though, her hopes drooped. The planet looked to be a frozen wasteland... not the first time she heard of Mandalorians slapping down on a frozen wasteland. Still, she wasn’t exactly expecting such a cold climate. It finally touched down and the little green Jedi emerged from Zlova’s ship. Steam practically rose from each step she took in the snow as she used the Force to bolster her body heat, and even then she shuddered through the wind and cold. ”Out of this cold, I’d prefer to get!” She hollered over the wind as she marched with Runi into the welcoming tent.

Only then did she turn to face Runi and shake off her robes before her golden gaze looked up at the Shaman. ”To meet you, a great pleasure it is, Speaker Kuryida.” She finally managed to answer with a warm voice and bright smile. ”This cold, I was not expecting.” She admitted with a chuckle as she pulled her whiskey flask from her pocket and took a swig.

Runi Kuryida

 

[Runi Kuryida]

That Yenna was considerably shorter than most bi-pedal lifeforms didn't trouble the Shaman. Yenna's species was certainly not common, but that had no bearing on whether she was worthy of respect; even without taking into account the training and discipline it took for become a Jedi Knight. Most Mandalorians saw Jedi as a formidable opponent with their command of 'The Force,' which was natural. Runi, however, had long since observed what it took to become a Jedi. The difference was in knowing their beginning and their end; much as most would better understand the Mandalorians if they too knew more than they were good as bounty hunters or warriors.

Once they stepped into the tent, Runi smiled over at the woman that had not been expecting such a cold welcome. A devilish play by the Twi'lek, perhaps, or just her way of leaving it to Runi to decide the manner in which Yenna was introduced? The Shaman did regard the shorter woman as she pulled out a drink after her remarks. It seemed Yenna would be full of surprises.

"The weather will not be as cruel at our destination, but I cannot say it will be much warmer." The Pathfinder stepped forward with a fur cloak sized for Yenna to take and wear at her discretion. "Fortunately, after our arrival," Runi said as the attending pair took their place to either side of a circle inscribed in the ground, "we will not need to tarry long. There will be time to acclimate before a tour of the village." Though inevitably they would be outside for such an excursion. Something for Yenna to look forward to (or dread).

Runi stepped over the drawn edge and into the circle. She turned to offer a hand back toward Yenna. "To avoid disturbing those seeking refuge among us, I had your ship stop here. This gateway will take us the rest of the way. I hope you don't mind." Everything Runi had said was entirely true -- as were all the omissions. If outsiders were aware of Kestri they very well might trouble the people of Resa.

Yenna

 

[Yenna]

Yenna lit up as she was handed the little cloak meant for her. "Thank you!" She nearly shouted with a deep bow in thanks, before pulling it over her robes and closing it up around her. Already she felt better, saved a lot of energy to not rely so much on the Force for warmth. The gratitude was clear on the little green Jedi's face as she smiled up at Runi and her compatriots.

Her gaze drifted around her and then to the odd circle around them as Runi referred to the portal she wanted to use. With wide eyes Yenna pulled out her datapad and made a bunch of quick notes for later research, mumbling the words as she typed. "Not at all! Very interesting, all of this is. Also, very nice, the cloak is. Thank you." She commented, quickly adding a few more notes before she tucked her datapad back in under her robes. "Such magic, I never knew Mandalorians had. In my research, such power, only the witches of Dathomir possess. Remarkable, this is." She admitted as she looked to Runi for any instructions on what to do.

She pulled out her flask and took another sip before she held it out for Runi. "A drink, would you like?' She asked warmly with her arm outstretched.

Runi Kuryida

 

[Runi Kuryida]

"Few Mandalorians use the power of the Manda as Jedi, Sith, or even the Witches of Dathomir do. It becomes easy to succumb to temptation; why fight someone that might best you, if you can banish them with a wave of your hand? Our Way of Life cherishes combat not to glorify violence, but to force growth -- to not become complacent." Runi saw Yenna produce a pad to take notes, so it only seemed appropriate to describe why 'magic' wasn't seen more often by the beskar-wearing clans.

The Speaker stepped into the circle and gesture for Yenna to join her. Before Runi conjured the power, however, Yenna extended her flask out as an offering. Ordinarily Runi would be mindful not to become drunk in the presence of a guest, but it would be rude to refuse. Besides, it would only be a small drink. "You do me honor." After a quick tilt, Runi held the woman's flask back out for her to take. "As I hope our time together will you."

Runi slowly waved her hand before her over the inscribed circle as she incanted, "Sarsala mhi atar lo irud be gar Adiik ibac mhi kapr galya solus a'uym." «Spoken in Mando'a: Grant us passage into the arms of your Children that we may celebrate one another.» A glow radiated upward around the women as what Yenna knew as the Force embraced them. Soon the interior of the tent became awash in light, but the effect was not like a bright light being shone in the eyes; few said they felt any sort of ocular pain resulting from the passage.

As form and color returned to the world, Yenna would find herself standing in a circle inscribed in rock. To one side stood a three-story tall, circular building of wood and stone. The surrounding terrain had changed with the peaks of the nearby mountain range standing proudly near. A few figures milled out in the cold of the outdoors, with the attention of a few turned toward those arriving.

"It is not every day this circle is used," Runi explained. Naturally, people were curious. "Welcome to the Briirud of Resa, Jedi Knight Yenna. A room has been prepared for you to stay among us for as long as you desire. I'm certain some of the younger ones will have as many questions for you, as you do of us." The Shaman chuckled. After all, they rarely had Jedi visitors. Though there may be some in the area that would view Yenna with suspicion, Runi did not warn Yenna in advance. Partially because Yenna could take care of herself; and partially because it might be a learning experience for her or those bold enough to make their biases known.

"Is there something in particular you're interested in learning while you're with us?"

Yenna

 

[Yenna]

The more Runi spoke, the more notes ended up on Yenna's datapad. The philosophy was certainly very interesting, and Yenna couldn't actually find a means to disagree. She was not a combatant by any means, she hated conflict and the desire to end another being's life, but simply doing sequences and sparring would not prepare her for a serious fight. Her previous experience with combat situations was what helped her against Dimitri on Jakku, and again over Adrathorpe. Jedi were peacekeepers, after all. They needed to be capable with their power and blade if they wanted to defend the innocents.

Perhaps she could twist Runi's arm for some sparring later on. Not only for the training, the information on Mandalorian fighting technique would be immensely interesting to document.

"Oh, an honour for me, it will most certainly be!" She spoke up happily before Runi started with her spell. This was something she was going to have to ask about, it was not the Dark Side by any means. Runi's presence in the Force was remarkably powerful, another surprising aspect. This wasn't just a random cult of force users doing their own thing, they clearly had some powerful abilities.

When the light subsided around them, they were in a completely different area with at least some people around. Yenna glanced around them before her attention turned back to Runi. "Oh, lovely, children are. And, for the hospitality, I thank you." She bowed slightly in thanks as she smiled at the woman. "Too many questions, I have. To start, I have no idea." She admitted as she patted down her new cloak and wrapped herself up again. "A warmer place to talk, is there by any chance?" She asked the woman with a chuckle.

Runi Kuryida

 

[Runi Kuryida]

Runi regarded Yenna for a moment before the Shaman's gaze slid over the surround. After a moment the Mandalorian smiled and gave her guest a nod. "We'll sit around the fire in the Briirud." With her helmet cradled in the crook of her arm, Runi started toward the large circular building that set atop an outcropping overlooking most of Resa.

Two armored Mandalorians stood guard at the entrance and nodded respectfully as the women approached. The large, wooden doors stood open to reveal the large hall within that led toward the heart of the structure. A number of torches were supplemented with discretely located electrical lightning that lit up the interior.

"Many of the comforts of the larger cities you will not find here," Runi explained as they passed through the doors, and the Speaker giving the guards a nod of acknowledgement. "But the Mandokarla are not adverse to scientific advances. So much in the city, however, distracts one from introspection and contemplation needed to understand who someone is and how best to respond to the challenges of their every day life. Light, heat, and medicine are some of the modern comforts we do not ask people surrender while they live here; while we strongly encourage everyone set aside the holonet, blasters, and droids."

A few people milled about the main hall, but stepped aside or waited for the two women to pass before carrying on with their tasks.

Another set of doors parted to reveal a large, circular room with a fire at its center. "What are a Jedi's thoughts of the distractions of people in the cities?" Runi knew some things about the Jedi ways, but she was no expert. It would be curious to know if they felt the same and taught their young to avoid the pitfalls.

Yenna

 

[Yenna]

Yenna grinned at the mention of fire as she followed after the woman. "Delightful, that sounds." She commented, clearly anxious to get out of the cold. ”Possible, would it be, for translations at a later time?” She asked calmly as she took more notes.

Once they were inside the intriguing building, Yenna listened to Runi speak as they made their way to another room with the fire she mentioned. The little green Jedi set her datapad aside to take in the fire and warm herself up properly.

With some life in her limbs again, she looked to Runi. ”About that, I never thought.” She admitted as she mulled over the question. ”I would say... traditional, we are, in a sense. But... shy away, we do not, from technology. We recognise the uses and advantages. Although... limitations, we have. At the end of the day, above all, the Force is. Faith, we must not lose. On the Force, we can and must depend. One with the Force, we are. And with us, the Force is.” She turned to face the woman again with a smile matching the warmth of the fire.

”As for the galactic populace... peacekeepers, we are only. To protect them, our mission is. Our place to govern them, it is not, but to help them rather. So... in a sense... not as strict as your order, we are. It does depend on the individual sometimes, though.” She finally finished with a swig of her flask, and once more she offered it to the Mandalorian.

She checked her notes again for a moment as she thought about what else to ask. ”Um, ask... if I may... your path, what is? Do you follow the Light? Or... another path, do you walk?” She asked somewhat nervously.

Runi Kuryida

 

[Runi Kuryida]

"Of course." A small smile graced Runi's lips. They'd give her a course in Mando'a if Yenna desired it as well.

As Yenna stood to warm before the fire, the Shaman took a place to her left upon the ground before the flames. She knelt down ready to spring up instantly if battle was joined. Not that she expected Yenna to betray them; Runi was as Mandalorian as the next vod. Battle was always possible, especially when it seemed unlikely.

The smile grew at the Jedi's words. Strict. Yes, the Mandokarla did not eschew technology or 'progress,' but neither would they become slaves to it. Few would ascribe to such a lifestyle with how ubiquitous technology was in the galaxy. But then when a soul was in dire need of mental, emotional, or spiritual healing it was by severing all ties to that which would remind them of their injury that they could gradually seek a means to understand and perhaps address their ailment.

When Yenna offered the flask once more, the Shaman's smile did not wilt. With a calm, fluid motion Runi imbibed the offering once more. The flash was offered back to its owner then as Yenna posted her own question.

"The Mandokarla follows neither the Light nor the Dark. To say only that, however, would be arrogant." Runi was not so conceited to claim to be beyond being measured in such terms. So that Yenna better understood her thoughts, the Shaman continued, "I do not see the 'Force' as you call it in such a manner, but I understand your meaning. To understand us a different measurement should be used. Continuums between Selflessness and Selfishness, Altruism and Self-Interest, Kindness and Ruthlessness, and so on would best describe a people. Those of the Mandokarla favor being selfless -- though none are perfect -- yet as Mandalorians we do not shy from combat and may lean toward being ruthless in battle. Which outweighs the other? What if you exemplify both under different circumstances? Are we Light or are we Dark?"

All said, it was only polite to frame it along what most considered the 'common' frame of reference. "I would say we favor the Light when the whole is taken to account. The Mandokarla exist to ensure the health of our people, and the continuation of our way of life. Power for power's sake has no meaning here." It would be a mistake for Jedi to believe the Mandalorians champions of Light, however. Perhaps a topic they would discuss at length soon enough.

"Was there something in particular concerning the Way of the Mandalore that had your interest, Knight Yenna?" Usually when someone asked if you were Light or Dark it was to understand how imminent the threat was toward your life. Jedi rarely acted out of rage or committed senseless crimes; whereas a Sith was apt to do anything depending on the Sith you were dealing with. Stereotypes all, but a frame of reference with which to operate in by most.

Yenna

 

[Yenna]

Yenna wrote down each word Runi spoke as she listened with full attention directed towards the Mandalorian. It was an admirable thing, their outlook on the Force. In more than a few ways, Yenna found their ideology quite relatable when compared to the Jedi views of things. There were a number of differences, of course, but there were some similarities that she could not overlook. When Runi's question was directed towards Yenna, the little green Jedi paused for a moment to contemplate how to answer.

"Plenty of interests, actually." She admitted with a giggle. "A force group, I did not know Mandalorians have. So, amazing, this entire journey is. Plenty of new discoveries, I have already. But... concerning the Force... a combination of things, it is for me." She put her datapad away and turned to face Runi. "Of course, as a Jedi, our duty is to combat the Dark Side. But... a personal thing, it is as well. Some heavy experiences, I have had with the Dark Side. Arguably... in its eyes, I have stared." She admitted, the memories of her time as a prisoner of Darth Carnifex was still fresh in her mind. Those wounds would likely never heal, despite it having happened almost ten years ago. "But with individuals, it becomes different. Zlova, for example. A good person, she can be, clearly." She smiled at the woman. "But your people... admirable, your ways are. Different to Jedi, yes, but also similar. I guess... just a personal concern, my question was. No offense, I meant by it."

She looked around again. "Other Mandalorians, could I also meet sometime? Very good company, you are, Run- Speaker Kuryida. But a fascinating culture, your people have. A new entity, the Enclave is. A group not built on conquest, you are. In my lifetime, nothing like that, I have seen from Mandalorians." Yenna knew that her words were rather cumbersome in delivery, but her voice was brimming with admiration. "Perhaps... a training session, even, I could attend?" She asked. There were too many things for her. Too much to explore. She felt overwhelmed with all of the excitement. "Maybe, a book, I should write of all this." She snickered to herself as she looked back towards the fire.

Runi Kuryida

 

[Runi Kuryida]

Runi smiled, but said nothing to Yenna's surprise. The Mandalorians were like any other people; Force Sensitivity -- or blessing of the Manda -- was as likely among them as any other. Though most vod would not go seeking it, nor di the Mandokarla scower the galaxy for more like their selves. To grow and cement their place of power was not their aim. If their number dwindled to return a generation later that such was the way of things.

"History may look back on these as troubled times," the Shaman said at last. "A tempest in which many worlds were broken on rocky shores. The Mandokarla will see Mandalorians through such times." Other governments offered shelter to those like themselves, of course. Some might even be considered trustworthy enough in their intentions. It was not the short-term in which their people should fasten their eyes, however. A benevolent ruler today favoring the Mandalorian could be replaced by a bitter and vile rival. Best they have a rock to stand on should the worst come to pass. "And throw off the shackles the Sith seek to bind us."

"No question is offensive, Knight Yenna, except to suggest the Mandalorian Way is much like the Sith." Runi gave the shorter woman a small smile. Yenna had, of course, not even suggested as much, but if there was one thing that should never pass her lips it was so. Runi would not so easily lose her temper, but she could not speak for every vod. There were many that took what had happened all those years ago personally even to this day.

A quiet chuckle followed. "Zlova." Runi nodded. "I very much doubt you would find she described herself as 'Good.' She is... like us. Complicated. As people should be." It would be easier if people were simple, one-dimensional, predictable, and consistent. Such would be a dreary world, however. Looked on favorably only because of the rigors of this one; then lamented once obtained.

"Of course. I can have a vod bring a coat. It is unlikely to get much warmer outdoors during your stay. You are welcome to speak to any Shaman or Pathfinder you find within the Briirud as well, where it remains warmer, as well." There was a diverse accounting of Mandalorians in the village of Resa nearby. Some would be more amicable to outsiders or questions than others, but then that would be part of the experience. Mandalorians were not known for being very... personable, so Runi doubt Yenna would take any insult from the behavior.

With a casual reach, the Speaker slid a dark, wooden stick from a loop and gave it a twirl in her hand. "Training." The sticks whirled in the air in place as Runi released it only to snatch it out of the air and repeat the process with barely a pause. "The Way of the Echani is known to me. While I don't see how you could communicate everything through battle, there is much one learns in doing." Her hazel gaze slid from the stick over to the Jedi Knight once more with a small smirk. "I can also arrange to view a match, of course. For your book."

Yenna

 

[Yenna]

Her smile softened for a moment as she thought over Runi's description of Zlova. "No... certainly not. Too proud, she is... but... deny it, she can't. Despite all of it... a good heart, she has. Bad people, I have met. One of them, she is not." She spoke softly as she stared at the flames in front of them for a moment.

She nodded slowly at the offer of talking to the other members of the Mandokarla in the village, though her attention shifted back to Runi as she produced a type of fighting stick. She watched as the warrior flipped and twirled it through the air as she mentioned organizing a chance for Yenna to study a match for her book. It was a bright thought. To write a book documenting the culture and lifestyle of the "new" Mandalorian civilisation. Far different from anything else history had seen over the years. A mischievous smirk spread along her features as she summoned one of the sticks to her tiny hand, studying it for a moment. "An honour, that would be... but partake, I would like to as well." She gave Runi a daring grin as she flipped the stick around and offered it back to the Mandalorian.

"An ugly thing, war is... but fighting... sometimes, therapeutic, it can be. Echani martial arts, I have heard of. But familiar with it, I am not. The Baran Do, though... a different story, that is. Know of that order, do you?" She asked her calmly as she stood up again to warm her hands by the fire.

Runi Kuryida

 

[Runi Kuryida]

Runi nodded slightly to the Jedi's words regarding the Twi'lek. It was so. Had Runi felt otherwise -- that Zlova was a monster of darkness -- then her presence would not have been tolerated among the Mandokarla or the Enclave. Even thus, the Shaman had not turned a blind eye to the woman's actions; the Sith were a cunning and manipulative foe, and Zlova had a look to her eyes that said she did not lack in those ways.

Yenna conjured one of the sticks to her own hand, which brought a small smile to the Shaman's lips. Not content to watch on the sidelines, so much the better, Runi thought. It was not often she had the pleasure of engaging Jedi in a polite bout. So many of those she did preferred their sabers to wooden sticks not that it kept them from sparring. Always a mild delight to see their eyes when their blade of plasma connected with her simple wooden instrument and it didn't cut straight through.

Slowly the Mandalorian accepted the stick back from the bold Knight.

"I have...heard of the Baran Do. Studied among them have you? The years of late keep me from roaming too often among the stars, but it is wise to learn from those different than yourself. Too easily can a mind become set in one way and fail to foresee the dangers of things long held unthinkable." Not that any philosophy ever so much as cast a shadow of doubt in her mind about the Manda. The means and ways of the Mandalorian people, perhaps, but not fertile ground from which they grew. "Do they have their own form of combat?"

Tag: Yenna