Private To Vitality and Lasting Bonds

[Valoria Elryne]

Jedi Temple, Tython
Medbay
Kas Larsen


When you're stuck in the same place for months, you tend to get awfully familiar with it. Too familiar.

Valoria well understood the feeling.

She'd been walking the same halls for what felt like forever. She almost knew every inch of the temple. Of all the areas she was permitted access to, that was. Perhaps that was why, when given the chance, she'd jumped at the opportunity to do something with other padawans her age. She hadn't been entirely prepared for everything that had entailed, but it was something to do besides sit around all day, staring at archives she cared very little for. Bored out of her mind. It had been nice to do something for once.

But now it had come to pass, and she was left with nothing to do. Again. If she could only carry on with her training...

A pair of voices passing had caught her attention.

"I'm glad Kas finally came back around. He had me worried sick." The older girl of the pair said. Valoria frowned ever so slightly upon hearing that. Kas? Isn't that the padawan who'd left them towards the start? Had an unfortunate run in with the Flesh Raiders? Last she'd heard, he'd been in a coma state. The pair had just come out of the medbay, each wearing a similar look of releif on their face. Valoria found herself hesitating in the hall, and eventually changed routes to the door that lead into the medbay.

Easing the door open, the very first thing she noticed was the pristene, sterile white that seemed to be everwhere. It made the place feeling very clean. Slotted windows high on the walls let bars of light to shine through, the rays falling against the floor. For a medical facility, it was obviously well funded. She made her way into the space. It wasn't overly big, just big enough to be functional.

"Excuse me?" She said, approching one of the medical staff as they passed. "Where would I find Kas? Kas... Larsen, if I recall correctly." With a small smile, the woman gave her direction, pointing the closed-off area to her before continuing on her way.

Right. Here went nothing.

Valoria made her way through the room, eventually making it to where the woman had directed. Sure enough, the brown haired boy she remembered from the trail was there. She wasn't even really sure why she'd come. But she was here now.

She supposed she just had to see for herself that he was truely okay.

 

[Kas Larsen]

Equipment: Jedi Jumpsuit | Utility Belt
Tags: Valoria Elryne
Mentions: Valery Noble | Jobbi Chantin | Auren Kah'el | Reina Daival | Tydos Kaldan | Xuko Pagoi | Aris Noble

The medical wing of the Jedi Temple on Tython fell quiet despite three teenagers being inside a closed-off section. Two sat at either side of a medical bed where one older teenage boy was laid up resting from his past ordeal. A bandage wrap around his head where he endured a blow that rendered him unconscious. A few bruises and cuts around his face. This was Kas Larsen.

A gasp and wince came from a teenage girl, Seri, Kas' twin sister. Each time she came here to visit and check up on Kas. It did leave her stomach in knots. She hid it well from her younger brother Caden though. He was just as sad and worried about Kas. Caden looks to him as a role model.

"Should've been with you, Kas. This wouldn't have happened. Travelled back alone with Flesh Raiders out there." Seri said to Kas while it looked like he was asleep and resting.

"C'mon big bro. Don't give up on us. Ma' and Pa' will go through us." Caden said to Kas on the opposite side from where Seri sat.

"Y'know I'm not that easy to go down." A smirk appeared on Kas' beaten face. One that brought a big jolt of happiness to Caden and Seri. His eyes slowly opening up to see his brother and sister. Adjusted his position in the bed slowly did grunt and moan a few times from the pain.

"Kas!" Caden cried out as the joy filled the younger Larsen's body and mind.

"Took you long enough, Kas." Seri chuckled and was very happy, relieved that Kas had regained consciousness after being out cold for a long period of time.

"Yeah yeah. I'll bounce back always, Seri. Hey lil' bro. How are you finding the Jedi?" Kas asked Caden.

"Uhm yeah. It's well, just been quiet and a little boring being stuck in here. Not like home." Caden admitted as it seemed the young boy was perhaps becoming a Jedi Consular.

"Heh it'll get there Cade. Keep your chin up." Kas turned his attention to Seri. "What about you sis? Keeping yourselves outta' trouble?" He flashed grin to Seri.

"For now watching over you two like Ma' would. I've been in the training arenas and learning how to fight." Seri said to Kas as she flashed a smile back to him - the twins love to compete. She held values of a future Jedi Guardian in the making.

A Jedi Medical member of staff approached the trio. Doing a little check-up on Kas as he laid in the medical bed. "Nice to hear and see you're awake Kas." Checks were done and they were left alone.

Seri and Caden decided to let Kas rest some more. Probably be a little while until he is discharged and declared fit for active duty. The pair got up and left the medical wing with a satisfied and relieved presence between them. Not noticing the Twi'lek Padawan Learner Valoria Elryne coming in to visit Kas.

Not expecting anyone else to visit him besides Jedi Healers and Jedi Medics performing their routine checks on him. Kas had his eyes closed over to rest for a brief period until he felt through the Force there was a slight familiar presence coming into his vicinity.

"Valoria? Huh. I wasn't expecting anyone else to visit." Kas said as he opened his eyes again.

He did remember the nice conversations the two shared during the trail outside of the Temple grounds. Kas had accompanied fellow Padawan Learners Jobbi Chantin , Aris Noble , Xuko Pagoi , Reina Daival , Auren Kah'el and the Jedi Grandmaster Valery Noble though nobody came yet.

Probably expecting a scolding from majority of Jedi since he left the group and ended up ambushed by the native Flesh Raiders common on Tython. May have been regarded as reckless.

"What's brought you here Valoria? Is everyone else alright?" Kas had more care and consideration towards the others more than himself. Selfless so he was. Although he does need to focus on himself sometimes just a little bit more.

 

[Valoria Elryne]

Valoria gave him a pitying look. As odd as it was, she almost felt sorry for him. The fact that he hadn't been expecting visitors...

"To be truthful with you, I was never planning on visiting." She admitted softly. Her eyes glanced over him, registering the damage done. She hadn't realised as to exactly what extent he'd been injured. She'd known, obviously, that it was bad enough to leave him concussed. But looking at it now? All she could think was Ouch. That must've hurt like hell.

She would've placed bets that it still did.

"I heard you were awake though, so... figured I'd swing by and see how you're holding up." This was starting to feel a little awkward. She barely knew him, save for the short conversation. And she didn't even remember much from that conversation, as her mind was more focused on finding a way to get rid of the Huttlet's stench then it was focused on the conversation.

Hopefully he wouldn't make too much of the sentiment. It was only so that she could feel slightly better about herself. So she could see that he was alright. So she knew her desicion to let him walk off without doing anything hadn't caused any damage to his quality of life.

Valoria had noticed him leave. Of course she had. And it was reasonable for her to feel some level of guilt for the situation he now found himself in. She could have stopped him. Called him back. Let someone know. But she didn't. She didn't stop to consider the threat that was out there, that he might not make it back to the temple safely.

"Everyone else is fine." She reassured him. "How, uh, how are you holding up? Feeling any better?"

Valoria felt the need to ask. She still had no idea why she was here. But she was.

Perhaps a little socialisation would be good for her.

Kas Larsen​

 

[Kas Larsen]

Equipment: Jedi Jumpsuit | Utility Belt
Tags: Valoria Elryne

Kas noticed the look that Valoria had given him. A sigh escaped from his lips. He figured other Jedi were too busy with their studying and training sessions. All while perhaps he was just a ghost and the other Padawan Learners didn't take notice of his absence from the group.

The damage dealt by the rogue Flesh Raider natives was consisting of the bruises and cuts all over Kas' face. His left eye was black and purple rather sore to put up with. A cut from the eyebrow down the right side of his face. Thankfully not deep enough to leave any vicious scar.

Two broken ribs on his left side. The right arm of Kas' body endure a few fractures making it hard to move it. It was in a cast and his head just around the forehead was wrapped in a bandage or few from what can be felt and seen. Was he surprised no-one visited him? Not really.

Waking up to just his twin sister, Seri, younger brother, Caden, and now Padawan Learner Valoria Elryne having visited him. The others that Kas remembered after going out of his comfort zone to attempt in forming friendships with them. It did sting. Leaving him believing it wasn't worth it.

"Guess I wasn't making many friends after only arriving here a few days in. Thanks for coming." Although Kas wasn't sure why Valoria came here to see him.

Maybe it was guilt. The others from the group probably had better activities to involve themselves with. Kas will remember this all. It has perhaps brought him into a perspective that attempting to become associated with fellow Jedi students didn't hold up a lot of values.

"I'm alive. Probably thankful I made it. Some of the Temple Guards said I was dropped of by a trio of Flesh Raiders. I didn't hear or see them." Kas answered Valoria's questions.

Kas had a frown across his facial expression as he thought about the others. Not having heard from them or seen anything to represent any notion of anyone showing concerns. He deemed the friendships he thought he formed were only short-term for the trip among the others.

"Probably just going to stick with Caden and Seri. Nothing felt right that day." Kas dropping perhaps a hint or few as to why he left the group. Going back to the Temple himself, alone, rather stupid as he reflected deeper on the past while that he could remember.

Kas looked over to Valoria and he ended up starting to close his left eye that was black and purple with the bruising there. It was starting to feel strained slightly. His good arm and hand reached over to attempt to get a soaked cloth containing bacta but it wasn't easy. He sighed.

 

[Valoria Elryne]

Valoria gave a small smile. Polite, as always. Reserved. Not quite reaching her eyes. He was certainly in an extremely unfortunate situation. It would be unfortunate for anyone. At least most people had others who could cheer them up. Bring them back to good spirits. Make them less... miserable.

But Kas was alone. He had no-one. No-one except the two she passed in the corridor, who by now she'd presumed were his siblings. And the medical staff. But they didn't really count.

And herself. She was here. For some, unknown reason. Who knows? Maybe it was fate. Or maybe she was just too kind for her own good.

"You're lucky, that's what. They could've easily run off with your life. You're really damn lucky that you're safe in this room." She told him, her expression softening slightly.

"I apologise for just letting you leave." She'd considered it and everything. In the end, she'd decided he'd be fine. They hadn't even travelled that far at that stage. Kas was just really lucky and unlucky at the same time. "I thought it'd be safe enough for you to get back."

She watched him struggle to reach the cloth for a moment. Then let out a sigh. Moving to his bedside, she took the bacta cloth from the bench and offered it towards Kas.

"Here. Take it. You probably shouldn't move too much. Might make your condition worse. Which won't be ideal if you wish to be out of this bed anytime soon."

She gave another smile. A real one this time. Perhaps the first real smile she'd given him.

"Let me know if you need help with anything else. I've got nothing better to do so I might as well be of some use."

Kas Larsen
​

​

 

[Kas Larsen]

Equipment: Jedi Jumpsuit | Utility Belt
Tags: Valoria Elryne

Kas took the cloth with the Bacta fluids soaking it. A slight grunt as he was trying not to do a lot of movement to further strain or stress his body. He does want to be out of the Medical Bay sharpish. Valoria spoke the truth there that resonated within his mind. He smiled to the Twi'lek.

A genuine smile from her that was something. Kas gently pressed the cloth onto his left eye although a wince came from him as it is still tender and it stung a bit. He held it there.

"Yeah, already got that pep talk from some of the Healers and Medics here. Least I'm not a Cathar. End up being tested 9 times or something." Kas said in a joking manner to Valoria.

He heard that Valoria Elryne was apologising to him for she had noticed he left the group and headed back to the Temple alone. Shook his head to her.

"You don't need to apologise to me. It should be me apologising to everyone else although. I guess no-one else has been bothered by my absence." Kas sighed after stating that.

Kas was thankful that Valoria had nothing else better to do and was taking her time to spend it with him. Of all people and in the Medical Bay. Maybe she just wanted to be away from everyone and everything else that was going on in the Temple. Kas smiled and accepted her company.

"Well. How about we get to know each other a little better? Don't need to spill out every detail of your life hah. Although I've not got anythin' special going for me. Besides my Ma' and Pa' being former, retired Jedi Masters." Kas was ready to let Valoria know more about him.

Strange. He felt confident and comfortable around the Twi'lek as if they go at the same pace as each other. Not prying or probing for the sake of gaining intel against each other out of spite or anything. This all felt genuine? He didn't feel or see this during the group trip with the other Padawan Learners there. The atmosphere between Kas and Val was starting to be natural.

 

[Valoria Elryne]

Kas's observations on the situation weren't quite as accurate as he might have thought. It was true that the atmosphere between them was more natural. Valoria didn't have to worry about keeping up appearances to a large group of people. Just one person. Who was half dead, as it were.

She was certainly being kinder. Warmer. Maybe not entirely genuine just yet. She was still very reserved. But more genuine than she had been before. It most definitly had everything to do with the fact the he was in a hospital bed.

And despite his beliefs, Valoria was actually travelling at a much slower pace to him. Her life recently had taken a rapid plunge from perfectly fine to the absolute low-light of her entire life. Recently, as in six months ago until this day. The whole idea of getting to know each other better? It didn't sound too great to her.

She opted to keep the conversation on him. It was safer that way.

"Your parents were Jedi Masters?" She gave a small laugh. Not in a mocking way. In a way that said, Huh, that's actually sorta cool. "Must be a lot to live up to then, isn't it?"

She was glad she at least did not have to face that pressure.

"I bet they'll be glad their son took on three Flesh Raiders and lived to tell the tale. It's a pretty awesome story. You at least gained that from it."

Valoria was trying to bring his spirits up. She could see already how her presence alone seemed to make things more bearable for him. She dragged a chair closer, sitting down to make the conversation feel a little more natural. More comfortable.

Not to mention, her legs had been getting tired of standing.

Kas Larsen​

 

[Kas Larsen]

Equipment: Jedi Jumpsuit | Utility Belt
Tags: Valoria Elryne

Kas had noticed a few differences coming from Valoria as she had spent her time in the Medical Bay with him. She was displaying being more friendlier and kinder. Although Kas was taking it slow this time not getting too roped into a lot of details. He was being considerate to Valoria.

When the subject was questioned by the Twi'lek Padawan Learner about Kas' mother and father being former Jedi Masters now retired. He was happy to describe them both to her.

"Yeah. They were Jedi Masters they retired when Ma' was pregnant with maself and Seri. We're twins heh non-identical of course. Pa' was a Jedi Guardian a fierce duellist from what Ma' explained. Apparently he could have been a Battlemaster but allowed others to fulfil it."

Kas took a few moments and paused. Not straining himself too much as ribcage being damaged would affect his lungs if not mindful. Adjusted himself where possible as he laid up in bed but sat up with his back against the bed board that acted as a rest support for him.

"Ma' was a Jedi Sentinel. Apparently a Jedi Shadow. Heck of an Investigator as well. At least when Pa' teamed up with her the two were a dominant duo within the Jedi Order." Kas stated.

He sat in his medical bed thinking about his Jedi path as well as Caden's and Seri's. He went on to speak about them with Valoria maybe she'd enjoy their company at some stage. Cleared his throat and took a sip of water from the cup left out for him.

"I believe Caden is going to become a Jedi Consular seems to be more fascinated with the Force, it's mysteries and learning more about a Jedi Sage I think it is called. Seri she is a one heck of a combatant. Give her any weapon and she will practice with it non-stop I'd say she takes that from Pa' so a potential Jedi Guardian in the making."

Kas took another sip or few from his cup of water. Taking a few moments to rest and ease his lungs from being tickled by his ribcage. A light and relieving sigh came from him.

"Well, think they'll be more cross with me. Unless Seri hasn't said anything to them about the details. Once I'm cleared from this wing. I'll be learning and training to become a Jedi Sentinel. The combative capable kind too."

It was nice to have different company for a change instead of his siblings. Not that there was anything wrong with Caden and Seri. Just hearing a difference voice and seeing another face did make Kas feel more comfortable and confident in himself.

"So... What about you Val? Where do you see yourself in the future within the Jedi?" Kas hopefully wasn't prying too much with Valoria Elryne he doesn't know her fully yet. He would like to get to know her and perhaps their friendship can bring them both development and progress in and out of the field when the Force calls out to the pair.

 

[Valoria Elryne]

Another soft smile.

His parents sounded really nice. It sounded like they really cared about and loved Kas and his siblings. Retired to settle down and have a family. Unusual choice for well-reknowned Jedi to make. Most people in their situation would have continued to dedicate themselves to the cause. But not them. It was nice to know she'd be able to settle down and live a normal life at some point if she wanted to.

"I'm sure your folks won't be cross with you." Valoria said, reassuring him. "You had no way of preventing that from happening."

Her voice sounded set. She truely did believe none of this could be led to blame him. She wasn't just saying it to make him feel better.

"And a Jedi Senital?" She said, suppressing a sigh. It must be nice, knowing exactly where your life was headed. Knowing you have control over it.

She had a calm exterior as he asked after her own life and career. But on the inside, everything had tensed.

It was unnoticable. Completely unnoticable for someone who didn't know what they were looking for. If you were watching close enough, you could've seen her eyes go distant, if only for a moment. The small nervous twitch of her mouth, that was present for less than a millisecond. The way she adjusted her position, refolding her hands in her lap.

Truth was, she didn't know. She didn't know if the Jedi would hold a place for her still.

As far as things went, she was of low priority in the councils eyes.

They had bigger concerns to worry about than some Padawan who'd stuffed things up. That's why she'd spent the past six months wandering the temple halls in boredom. Because she had very little say in the matter.

Regardless of anything, it was not something she wanted to share. With anyone. Especially someone she'd

"I was training to be the same." Her tone had become ever so slightly more downcast. "A Jedi Sentinal, that is. Less combative, more for relations with the people."

That's how she used to see her future. Now, the lines were blurry.

Kas Larsen​

 

[Kas Larsen]

Equipment: Jedi Jumpsuit | Utility Belt
Tags: Valoria Elryne

Kas spotted another smile from Valoria which was nice to see. A little tiresome when his brother and sister seemed to have had concerned looks ever since he wound up in the Medical Bay.

Family bonds. A strong asset with Kas but can also be exploited without proper guidance as a Jedi. His mother had always told him that they utilised their attachments to grow stronger throughout her time as a Jedi alongside his father. The two looked out for each other in their time.

It was very similar in how previous Jedi in the era of Jedi Master Luke Skywalker had learned and trained in becoming Jedi. Ajax and Elah followed closely in the ways of the Skywalker Praxeum. Before Kas left with Caden and Seri to become Jedi. His parents had said the way Luke Skywalker had taught and trained his generations of Jedi was perhaps the best path to follow.

"True. I couldn't have stopped the Flesh Raiders. Caught me off guard. Singled me out as I parted from our group. I'm sure Seri has explained it to them both better than I ever could." Kas said.

At least the two agreed in their thoughts about the situation Kas endured with the first-hand experience of Flesh Raider natives on Tython.

He heard and saw Valoria sigh when he had asked her about the future of her life as a Jedi. Did he intrude too much in asking his question? A slight concern was on his face even though it might be a little tricky to tell if he was in pain, tired or worried.

"Yeah? Well if you're comfortable with it. Perhaps we can learn and train together in becoming Jedi Sentinels together? Ma' and Pa' always said to me we're better united than divided."

Kas attempting to form a deeper and stronger friendship with Valoria Elryne trying not to invade her mindset and space. In the Force his senses didn't falter. There was something emitting from the female Twi'lek. He was being careful to not damage the friendship between them.

"Not a fan of combat huh. Well. I see a Sentinel as a balanced Jedi. Jack of all trades and apparently Ma' said they have unique abilities, skills and traits that Consulars and Guardians won't have access to. Uniqueness was what drew me toward them." Kas mentioned to Valoria.

A future wasn't absolute for Kas, his family or any of his friends that he gained or had. However, taking some control in life, making the best choices and decisions will contribute to life in general. Kas was hoping perhaps he can help Valoria steer her path while being a Jedi.

 

[Valoria Elryne]

Her expression faultered for a moment. Visibly this time. Much more noticeable.

How did she decline his offer without giving away her truths or making it seem like she wasn't interested in being acquainted with him?

Truth was, he was a nice person. He didn't seem to have any underlaying motifs. He wasn't hyper-analysing her every action. He was simply happy to just be. And it was refreshing.

And she didn't want to seem too distant from him or anything. But it was a hard truth. A hard truth, the outcome of which could through her entire life, the past ten or so years of training, out the window.

"Maybe one day we can train together. First you need to focus on recovering. Anything else can come later."

Her response was very mutual. Not promising anything, but not down right denying it either.

She appreciated his attempts to connect. She really did. But now wasn't a great time for her to make connections. If he'd come into her life a year ago, things would've been different. Whatever this hesitation was that made her reluctant to open herself to people hadn't existed back then. Crazy how much things could change in a year.

"And don't get me wrong when I say less combative." She added, eyes drifting to where one of the beams of light hit the floor. "I understand perfectly well that it has its place, and by no means will I neglect that area of my training." When she was permitted to train again, that was.

"I just believe people jump to violence too soon, even when there are other alternatives that they are yet to explore." Valeria was echoing someone else's words here. Yes, she believed in what she'd just said. Every word of it.

But those words had been spoken to her before. Many, many times over.

Enough so that it was rooted firmly in her mind. She would not forget it any time soon.

Kas Larsen​

 

[Kas Larsen]

Equipment: Jedi Jumpsuit | Utility Belt
Tags: Valoria Elryne

Kas had his sights on Valoria not analysing her for anything but he noticed a change in her expression. Out of genuine concern he raised a generic question to the Twi'lek female.

"Everything alright Ria? Look distracted." Kas asked Valoria while he took the bacta soaked cloth off his left eye. Kept it closed to let the fluids applied onto it dry off for now.

Training. Hah now there was a thought whirling within his mind. Valoria was right that shouldn't be a priority for him until he has fully recovered. Been cleared to begin his Jedi training. Seri his and Elah his mother would scald him for considering physical activity just now.

"Yeah suppose training shouldn't be on the top of my mind hah. When I am all better. I'll look forward to study and train alongside you. Maybe even team up on missions hah." Kas smiled to her.

Although something in the atmosphere between the two students of the New Jedi Order left a slight indication that perhaps Kas was treading on eggshells. Made him consider other topics to discuss that were more generic and open that the two can make pitches towards.

"Yeah. I'd rather see what options are available to us and others. Can't always rely on combat to answer everything. I get where you're coming from Ria." Kas agreed with Valoria and was starting to use a nickname for her. A potential sign to show their friendship developing more.

Kas deemed it worthwhile to explore alternatives whenever he confronted a situation that wasn't one hundred violent or lead up to such antics further down the line.

"Ria. I don't mean to come across as someone or something probing you. Is it alright to get to know more about you? Before, during or currently your time as a Jedi." Kas asked the Twi'lek.

He wanted to be friends with Valoria but going at her pace of course. Not to analyse her but just to genuinely know her as a person. A fellow Jedi but more than that. Kas has shared some information about himself to Valoria.

Valoria's last words echoed between her and Kas. He wasn't denying them. They were accepted as the young man agreed with their meaning put behind them.

A smile appeared on his face one of reassurance and he'd keep any details that Valoria would share with him between each other. Not even his brother and sister would be privy to the info.

 

[Valoria Elryne]

"Oh, no, everything's fine. I was just reminded of something..." Valoria left the statement open ended, not planning on elaborating any further. There was no need to. Not right now. Or ever, really. That was the one part of her life that she wanted to keep in a locked box, shut away from everyone and everything. Forever.

Whatever had come over her just then seemed to fade as she moved one of her lekku over her shoulder, so that it now hung behind her.

"And yeah. Maybe one day we could go face the world together." That day was likely further away than Kas knew. "I don't think it would be half bad."

She gave a small, half-hearted laugh to let him know she was joking, in an attempt to lift the mood. It probably wouldn't help Kas's recovery much if she was being all sad and mopey beside him.

Ria. It'd been a long time since anyone had called her that. Over a decade. She strangely liked it. It wasn't something she'd ask people to call her. But when people did... It was nice. Showed they actually wanted her around.

He seemed almost desperate to have someone to talk to besides his siblings. If she didn't like him, by this point she would've been pretending to be friendly with him simply because she'd feel bad if she didn't.

But she did like him. And for once, she wasn't just acting polite.

Valoria took a moment to consider his question. There was no way she would tell him about her current time as a Jedi. That was too sensitive. Not to mention boring. All she did these days was walk in circles aimlessly.

She wouldn't speak about her past experiences as a Jedi either. Every memory she now possessed of that was lined with sadness. And guilt.

Which left her only option to be before she joined the order.

"That's fine. You told me some things about yourself, only fair I share something too. Um..." She trailed off for a moment, gathering her thoughts.

"Well I grew up on Ryloth. My parents aren't really that interesting. We lived the quiet life. Not struggling, but not exactly flourishing either. But it was nice. I try to keep in contact when I can, but life here tends to get in the way. I still care for them though. Even if we do rarely talk."

She glanced down at her hands briefly before continuing.

"I have a younger sister too. I think she's turning twelve soon. We're not too close to each other really. Only met her twice." Valoria gave a soft smile.

"But she's simply the sweetest thing." Her tone carried the fondness that she so clearly had for her sister. That's one thing they could both understand, if not to the same extent.

Kas Larsen​

 

[Kas Larsen]

Equipment: Jedi Jumpsuit | Utility Belt
Tags: Valoria Elryne

Kas glanced into Valroia's eyes as she admitted about being reminded of something. Out of consideration and politeness the Jedi Apprentice thought perhaps if Valoria opened up a bit. The matters would become easier to manage and she wouldn't be facing issues alone she has a friend.

"Reminded of something? Sure everything is fine?" Kas questioned Valoria not to probe her.

He smiled in hearing and seeing Valoria laugh to him she looked a little bit more relaxed. It was good to see her make a joke. Lifting the mood did help ease the predicament Kas was faced with.

The nickname Kas came up for Valoria was a sign of their friendship progressing. It didn't appear as though she objected to being called Ria. This hopefully would lead to a stronger bond as friends. Valoria's presence was one of the first to value and appreciate always for Kas.

Adjusted his posture while laid and sat up in the medical bed to listen. Watching Valoria speak.

"Heh it is only fair. We're friends after all. Here for each other and get to know one another better." Kas said to Valoria before she began bringing up her background for him to learn.

Mentally noting down that Valoria came from the planet Ryloth and her parents sound as if there was a decent lifestyle back there for her family. It sounded a little sad where Valoria rarely contacted her family compared to what Kas does with his own family.

The mentioning of Valoria having a younger sister that was nice and something perhaps she can treasure more. Being a friend it gave Kas ideas all in good faith and intentions behind them.

"Ryloth huh. Can't say I've ever been there. Good that your folks live a decent life. You rarely contact them? Is this because of being a Jedi? All the studying and training going on?"

Kas just being generic with his questions with Valoria still being considerate and polite not forcing Valoria to reveal more info than necessary. This was a nice conversation with her.

"Ah got a sister too? Heh guess the older sibling role can be shared between us both. I was born first between Seri and I. Along came Caden next. He's 16 now and we're 18, Seri and I that is."

A smile appeared on Kas' face as he looked and listened to Valoria as they shared a pleasant conversation with each other. Albeit inside of the Medical Bay hopefully when Kas has recovered and been cleared the two can go to other places together. Create and share fond memories.

A thought dawned in Kas' mind. He wasn't sure if it'd be the right time to ask however he'd use his own family to swerve answers from Valoria if she wanted to add in her own input.

"Later down the line. Once I've recovered, done and progressed a lot in my Jedi training. Been thinking about going back to my folks on Corellia. Visit them y'know? 'Course Caden and Seri would come with me. Show them how we're all doing and family time is always nice." He said.

In this statement raised by Kas he hoped that perhaps Valoria would think about her family; mother, dad and her younger sister. Hopefully recognised as a good and nice gesture in Valoria's view. If it had been so long since she seen them he is skilled pilot and take a trip to Ryloth.

It'd need to suit the Twi'lek Padawan Learner though can't just spring it on her. Timing is everything he thought. Get healthy and fit for duties along with undergoing Jedi training. They are the top priorities for Kas and he'll do everything possible to get there plus more.

 

[Valoria Elryne]

Valoria's eyes snapped up to him as he pressed the issue. She knew he meant well. But everything was so far from fine. Much more so than she ever wanted to admit. There came no response to his question, nor reason why she could not answer it. She just didn't, hoping he'd catch onto the idea that she did not want to think about it. Let alone talk about it.

He'd smiled. That was something at least. It seemed her own mood wasn't affecting his. She marveled those who managed to be truly happy even when the world was falling to pieces around them. She was not one of those people.

Still, she forced herself to not look entirely annoyed at him.

"Yeah. Cause I'm a Jedi. That's why I don't really see them often." That, and her communications had been stopped. For reasons that would remain unspecified.

His words about going to visit his parents had the desired effect on her. Valoria let out a small sigh at the thought of returning home. It would be great to see them again. She just rather doubted it'd happen anytime soon.

"I imagine that'll be nice. Seeing your folks again." Her gaze had softened again, returning from the harsh glare she'd given him earlier to a much friendlier one.

Family time. That's something she knew she often lacked. But all things considered, it wasn't too uncommon amongst the Padawans in the order. There was too much to train for and learn. You never really got a chance to stop and think about it. Until the training comes to a halt.

She'd been thinking about her own family far too often. It was hard not to, when the only thing your mind had left to do was wander.

"I do wish, sometimes, that I got to see mine more often." She admitted quietly. "I wonder if they forget about me sometimes. Being so far away and out of contact and all."

They didn't even know about her current situation. She wasn't sure if she'd tell them anyways, even if she could. They thought she was making a better future for herself.

In reality she was rotting in the Temple waiting for an eternity waiting for a decision to be made.

Kas Larsen​

 

[Kas Larsen]

Equipment: Jedi Jumpsuit | Utility Belt
Tags: Valoria Elryne

Kas watched the way Valoria was reacting and responding to his question. Not out of spite but as a friend to gauge the atmosphere between the two. He didn't want to press too hard on her. No answers came from the female Twi'lek and there was a mutual feeling detected that it should be left alone. Kas acknowledged it and no longer pushed Valoria on the matter and accepted her privacy.

Believed it was best to move forwards and focus his attention on another subject. Not ruin the happiness and calm atmosphere between the two of them. Kas knew when to not annoy others. Got plenty of practice due to having Caden and Seri as his siblings.

The Jedi Apprentice listened and watched Valoria speak.

"Yeah can imagine all this learning and training does get in the way of that. Especially upholding some of the duties expected from us as Jedi." Kas agreeing with Valoria on that note.

A ripple in the Force could be felt between the two. When Kas had mentioned visiting his family it seemed Valoria had shared similar feelings and thoughts about her own family. He didn't press on it.

"Yeah it'd be good for the three of us. I mean surely there are many families in and out of the Jedi that just need a little bit of a family reunion. Helps many sometimes shed some weight off."

When Valoria spoke about wanting and wishing to see her own family. It confirmed the feeling Kas had picked up on through the Force. A brief smile appeared on his face and his idea could come to fruition. He just needs to put a few other matters into place to make it happen once healthy.

"Hey Ria, don't lose hope. I'm sure your family does miss you and remembers you. Jus' apart of life that everybody has their own paths to undergo I suppose." Kas said to Valoria.

His voice and spirit radiated hope; a beacon of light and faith. This was why Caden and Seri were so close with him. He was like the rock for his brother and sister whenever they faced troubling times in their lives. The trio are always there for each other keep them on track. Sharing that with friends they make would definitely help out others seize hope.

Thinking of a different topic to discuss and reflect on. Kas decided to put out a generic matter for the two to share their thoughts and views on. Nothing to be forced out.

"So, I remember my folks said I possess strong affiliation in the Force. Apparently more aligned with the Lightside as the Jedi call it. Guess we're raised to be heroes of hope or something hah."

 

[Valoria Elryne]

Tucking her legs up so that her knees were resting against her chest, Valoria found herself grateful that Kas had dropped the topic. She was a patient person. Always had been.

But had Kas continued pressing the matter, she would have walked out on him. To protect herself. Not because she wanted to bring him harm or anything. In fact, she'd feel so bad afterwards. So, horribly bad. So it had been wise, on his behalf, to leave that conversation where it was.

Instead, she listened to him as he spoke about the Jedi duties.

The expectations set for them were high. Impossibly so. You had to put in hours upon hours of training and study to meet them. The level of dedication was strenuous.

A small smile graced her lips as Kas reassured her that her family was missing her. It wasn't so much what he said - her family remembered her, but she wasn't so certain if they missed her. That's why they'd had her sister after all. Because their only child had been taken by the Jedi, and her parents wanted to raise one of their own. She'd been replaced. But she didn't hold it against her sister. Her sister hadn't asked to be born just to spite her. It was her parents who she should hold it against.

"A strong affiliation?" Valoria repeated. Technically speaking, she'd never been specifically told herself. Her parents didn't know much about the force at all until she was three. Come to think about it, they didn't know much more now than they did back then.

"I'd certainly hope, considering you're training to be a Jedi, that you would be more aligned with the lightside of the force. Otherwise I feel like there'd be some pretty major issues." She commented, the humour that had been present earlier shining through again.

Subtle, but there.

"Heros of hope." Valoria gave an amused look. "What a title."

She would never get to the stage of getting any title higher than Padawan at the rate she was going at.

"I was never told my potential level. The Jedi found me when I was still quite young. Just over three years old, as a matter of fact. And obviously since no-one else in my family is force sensitive, my parents didn't take in a thing when they were told." She finished this sentence with a shrug. It didn't really change anything for her.

As long as she gave everything her best, what did potential matter?

Kas Larsen
​

​

 

[Kas Larsen]

Equipment: Jedi Jumpsuit | Utility Belt
Tags: Valoria Elryne

Kas watched Valoria tucking her legs up as her knees rested against the chest. Indicated for him to let the Twi'lek didn't want to go deeper into the topic he raised earlier. There had been very brief sibling fallouts between Caden, Seri and Kas but that's typical among a family basis.

With the topic changed about Jedi duties and training Kas had barely started any of it. He will undergo what he can once cleared by the Healers and Medics. He was going to triple-time it to get right on track to make progress. He possessed this sheer will and determination to do his best.

In mentioning Valoria's family was a way of providing some faith and hope to treasure by Kas. No matter how long it had been for her to hear or see from her family. She still has a family. Their love won't be diminished not unless something tragic happens among them all.

"Gotta' live up to the Larsen name sake hah. My folks done a lot when they were upcoming Jedi and it still shocks me they were Jedi Masters before retiring." Kas said as he laughed with Valoria.

The humour shared between the two students really did lift the mood and their spirits. May have been a small presence but it grew and settled down with Kas and Valoria.

Listening to the brief background of how Valoria was brought and recruited into the Jedi Order. It widened the scope of knowledge that Kas held for the Twi'lek. He was only inducted into the Jedi in his late teens and Valoria was very, very young. Quite the comparison between them.

"Wow. Just over three years old? Sheesh. I was just enjoying my time as kid at that age. Must've been quite a daunting experience to go through. Sorry Ria. I didn't know or consider that happens within the Jedi." Kas genuinely did mean what he said to Valoria as she shrugged.

No wonder the presence of a family was a missing piece for the Twi'lek. Quite the hardship to accept and endure through time overall. Now he had more reasoning to put his idea forward.

 

[Valoria Elryne]

In truth, she didn't remember that experience much. Just snippets of it. She had only been a child after all. It had seemed to be one big adventure at the time. She didn't realise everything she'd have to give up for it.

"Don't be sorry" Valoria replied. "There's no need really. If anything it's made me a better Jedi. More time to focus on learning. Less distractions." For better or for worse. She wasn't sure yet.

Once again, the conversation had wandered somewhere she didn't like. Why did she even bother to speak people these days? It wasn't like she ever had anything good to talk about.

"I fairly certain quite a few people are enlisted to the order rather young. At least, I trained with others my age, so that means there definitely are others. I think it happens quite often."

As a young Padawan, there'd always been people her age around. Always. She had never been the only one.

"I take it you only joined the order recently then? If you didn't consider Jedi join the order as young as I did before now?"

It was the most logical assumption.

She couldn't imagine starting in the order so late. Everyone else would be so far ahead in their training. You would have to work twice, maybe three times as hard if you ever wanted a chance at catching up.

The time spent concussed and in bed likely wouldn't be helping either.

"You know... If you ever do need help or anything with your training I may be able to lend a hand." The offer was hesitant, almost as if she wasn't entirely certain the offer was a good idea. But if she could help, she would.

And she wasn't forbidden from helping others in their training. Just advancing her own.

"I wouldn't say I'm the best person for it, but it'll give me something worthwhile to do."

Something much more worthwhile than what she'd spent the past few months doing.

Kas wasn't what she'd expected. She hadn't believed, when she first met him on the padawan trail walk, that any person could truly be so upbeat and positive. She hadn't believed that such kindness wasn't a cover for something else, something below the surface that he was concealing.

As it turned out, that just seemed to be who he was.

Which meant he belonged here, amongst the Jedi. He'd do the right thing when the time came.

Looking at him now, she knew he'd go on to do great things.

Kas Larsen​

 

[Kas Larsen]

Equipment: Jedi Jumpsuit | Utility Belt
Tags: Valoria Elryne

Kas listened and watched Valoria react to what he had commented about the discussion regarding very young infants being recruited and raised within the New Jedi Order. He couldn't believe or imagine him, Caden and Seri going through this phase at much younger ages.

The feeling and thought of being sorry for Valoria being taken from her family where she was barely an infant to become a Jedi. Kas read up that sometimes older potential candidates for new Jedi to come through was viable due to developed minds and bodies that can undergo tasks.

"I dunno about that Ria. Being older you can pick up things faster and easier possibly. Sounds daunting to expect young kids to undergo Jedi training without knowing everything to it."

This was something Kas seemed to show a bit of resistance towards but he's not been with the Jedi for the long term. Sure he can share his opinions and views but there's a fine line to walk on.

It didn't matter how late one could begin their Jedi training with how Kas reflect upon the topic. All Jedi were still to go through training. Be taught and trained to prepared.

"I guess you weren't alone where you learned and trained alongside others in your age bracket. Still I think that's a lot to take on at a young age Ria." Kas said to Valoria being honest.

Having only joined recently Valoria was right. Kas with his siblings got inducted into the New Jedi Order in their mid to late teenage years. Kas and Seri being 17 but turning 18 a few weeks ago and Caden was 15 now turned 16. Deemed by Kas that their ages were suitable.

The trio are under the Jedi Apprentice program independently learning and training from various Knights and Masters in the Order. They can still be taken under a Knight or Master's wing.

"Huh sorry. Caden, Seri and I only joined recently yeah. Seri and I were 17 just shy of 18 well we're 18 now. We don't claim to know everything but we'll go learn and train with our best efforts and intentions to become like Ma' and Pa' before us. Caden was 15 now 16."

The Larsen trio didn't care or mind how hard or long it would take for them to be become trained Jedi. At the end of the day teaching and training was all part of the Jedi life. It was down to the Jedi Council to promote students to the next phase in their Jedi career.

"I'm open to any teaching and training from anyone Ria. Doesn't matter to me still learning aren't I? Read somewhere that Jedi never stop learning even Masters come across new things."

Training. A start for Kas and it didn't seem many other Jedi paid any attention to him since he arrived but then of course. A few days in and being in a comatose state put him on the back burner. It was partially why he wasn't going after a mentor. He'll learn from all Jedi.

Kas was just being what comes naturally to him. Never trying to be something he wouldn't be able to maintain. Copying previous Jedi was insane to him. Being unique would make him unpredictable.

Could that be makings of a future Jedi Sentinel? Kas saw things in black and white mostly too.

Did he feel apart of the Order right now? No. Deems he needs to earn his way first.

"So, what can you teach me then Ria? One thing I've picked up on is sensing through the Force."