More than just a blunt instrument.


Tutaminis
‘Your work is not to drag the world kicking and screaming into a new awareness. Your job is to simply do your work… sacredly, secretly, silently … and those with “eyes to see and ears to hear’ will respond.’ –The Arturians
Healers are on the way, again relax, those weapons are there as a precaution. All of the students should be on their way as well. While this was going on, Caltin Vanagor was standing in the courtyard and meditating. His practice of meditating in a standing position is second nature to him (and probably explains the "grumpy" reputation he earned long ago).
As always, there were refreshments along the sides of the courtyard for anyone who wanted anything. There was no “open bar” mind you, or “omelet station”, but the place was stocked. He had nothing left to think about, other than how to approach teaching so many Jedi in the skill of Tutaminis.
This is going to be fun…
As the students of all levels, shapes and sizes walked in further and would gather amongst themselves, the big man began practicing his “saber kata” something that none (save the three Jedi he invited to learn it previously, they know who they are) would recognize. It was not just a lightsaber form, it was a martial art, a fighting style that incorporated everything that was a Jedi to be alongside combat. The twist is as effective and intimidating it might look, there was no emotion coming out of him, it was almost nothing more than a routine. Stopping for a few moments, he looked around the room.
For multiple Millenia, the Jedi are and have been peacekeepers, protectors, scholars, diplomatic representatives, negotiators. I want the Temple Guard of the Silver Concord who are gathered here to answer this question that I am about to ask you. What does that make us?
“Warriors”, one responded. Caltin nodded a bit haphazardly as it was not a bad answer, but moved on to the next one.
“Enforcers of the Peace.” Caltin just shook his head as another spoke up “Enforcing ‘Peace’ is still tyrannical.”
“Champions”. Eyebrows up for the next response, he nodded.
Not bad, not bad… Now this is just my opinion… but I think that everything we are and everything we do makes us “Healers”.
Letting the words sink in, like a sugar cube into a mug of caf, he waited.
There is an old phrase “Even one Jedi can turn the course of a battle.” Why? Because we are better fighters than anyone out there? Maybe. What about the morale boost of seeing one? A trooper’s eyes as they listen to our suggestions. I learned a long time ago that it is not what we do that makes a difference, it is simply being who we are.
That is why we learn the skills we do.
Say you are facing a fire-team of droids in front of you? Let’s say… two. I am sure everyone here can think of several different ways of sending them packing.
Two droids step forward as if commanded to.
What about four? Still as many options?
Two more droids step forward.
Eight?
Four more.
You have skills, all of you that make you unique.
As he levitated four of the droids, and moved them back to where they initially stood to make a point, Caltin had his eyes on everyone. Fully in command of his abilities, he wanted them to see what they are capable of.
Now I am sure that there are some gathered here, some skeptical naysayers who are thinking “Easy for you to say, Master Vanagor. You’re like ‘Uber-Super-Ridiculously overpowered Jedi-Man’.
Extending a broad grin as he spotted those who were trying to hold in a laugh.
Come on! I know some of you were thinking it… and some more of you are now because I was thinking it myself.
Offering a lighthearted chuckle, he stopped.
I will tell you this right now. I am no different from any of you, other than the fact that I was crazy enough to learn all that I could, so that I could pass it on to you. Everything I do, every decision I make at its core is to help, no matter how small in the effect, ensure the survival of the next generation of Jedi, to give you that education, just like any other Master would. Education is the power that the proponents of the Dark Side do not seem to understand. I am no one special, I just know that when I am in a fight that I have options, and moreso, thanks to my education, I am aware of what they are. My layers of defense always begin with what is going on in my head, and only then, should I need to, do I move on to the next layer.
Extending “Conservator” outward into the air, which drew the weapons of a few droids, he said simply.
Take the lightsaber. Relatively small, and sleek, it is the symbol of the Jedi. It is efficient offensively… defensively…
He then redirected a couple of droid stun shots upwards into the sky.
… and symbolically. While we are trained never to fully rely on it, the weapon is a lifeline for us. However, what if it is destroyed? Or out of reach? What if talking to those who wish us harm does nothing and we are forced to defend ourselves? Sure, one on one, even two on one this may not seem like a serious problem… But what if you come across several armed individuals?
The three droids shot again, only this time, Caltin’s free hand extended outward and the energy expended from the weapons absorbed into his palm three separate times.
There are other ways… such as Tutaminis. A defensive skill which takes an inordinate amount of focus, regardless of your mastery of the skill. It is a powerful skill, that, like everything else I teach you will hopefully one day save your life… should you ever need it. If… if any of you here are wanting to learn this to think that you will become invincible… you… you can leave now. You missed the entire point of what I am trying to tell you.
He then took the Sovereign Gold-Blue blade of “Conservator” and drove it into his free hand. The level of discomfort was more than evident as he pushed it in further. No damage was done to his hand, just the crackling hum of energy of the blade. Stopping after a few moments, it was clear that this took something out of him as he took a breath. After a moment later, Caltin began walking around and meeting everyone in the eye, he continued.
Please tell me what you know about Tutaminis.
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