Braze and Zaiya strolled along the mossy path, the tranquility of the woods enveloping them as they made their way toward the small village ahead. A hint of anticipation lingered in the air as they neared the outskirts, where signs of civilization began to peek through the trees.
"Well..." Braze began, his words trailing off slightly as Zaiya fired off a barrage of questions. He couldn't help but marvel at her curiosity, briefly pondering if he'd ever questioned anyone as much. Deciding he probably had, he chuckled softly before responding.
"It really depends, I guess," Braze mused.
"We won't be staying on Coruscant because of what happened on Tython, I think. I don't know where we'll go, but I intend on staying with my Master. When I was a youngling, I lived in a creche with other younglings. We had a creche master who took care of us, and each of us had our own little creche clan name too. Not all younglings are chosen as Padawans; some may remain in the creche to receive further education and training in support roles within the Jedi Order." He stifled a small yawn, covering his mouth with his hand.
As they continued their leisurely walk, Braze shifted the conversation to the Jedi Trials.
"We have an idea of what some of the trials are about or contain," he explained.
"And the Council can give you a sort of 'standardized' test for some of them. Others, you may pass just through life experiences. I'm sure my Master, Jasper Kai'el, has passed the Trial of Flesh for having his arm taken from him." Braze hesitated for a moment, a tinge of sympathy crossing his expression.
"I didn't press him for further details because that's probably a very sensitive topic."
He paused, taking a moment to stretch his neck and hear a satisfying series of cracks before continuing.
"Let me explain the trials," he said, his voice clear and confident
. "The Trial of Skill tests a Padawan's combat abilities, including lightsaber proficiency, agility, and tactical thinking. Padawans may face simulated or real combat scenarios to demonstrate their prowess."
Braze gestured with his hands as he spoke, his movements emphasizing each point.
"The Trial of Courage assesses a Padawan's bravery and ability to overcome fear. It often involves confronting danger or adversity, sometimes in the form of physical challenges or facing one's inner demons."
Moving on, he described the Trial of the Flesh.
"This trial focuses on a Padawan's physical endurance and self-discipline. It may involve enduring pain, enduring extreme environments, or demonstrating control over their physical body. The Trial of Spirit evaluates a Padawan's connection to the Force, their understanding of Jedi philosophy, and their ability to maintain their moral compass even in difficult situations," Braze continued, his words carrying a sense of solemnity.
"And finally," he concluded,
"the Trial of Insight challenges a Padawan's perception, intuition, and ability to discern truth from deception. It may involve solving puzzles, deciphering codes, or navigating complex ethical dilemmas."
With his explanation complete, Braze fell silent, allowing the sounds of nature to fill the space between them as they continued their journey through the woods.
Braze
