Private Where Roots Run Deep

[Ala Quin]

​

Ala's eyes were wide with awe as she took in the breathtaking beauty of the Temple of the Elements. Everything about it felt otherworldly—the towering Wroshyr trees, their thick trunks seeming to stretch far beyond the sky, the soft, ambient glow from the bioluminescent plants that lined the paths. The air was rich with the scent of moss and earth, and the steady hum of distant waterfalls gave the place a peaceful, almost magical rhythm.

She walked with an almost giddy step, her hands brushing against the various strange plants that seemed to pulse beneath her touch, curious about everything. She found herself weaving through the common area, glancing at the local artisans working their trade and Jedi mingling in casual conversation. It was an entirely new world, and every corner offered something unexpected—colorful flowers, serene pools, quiet alcoves, and whispering winds between the trees. She could hardly believe she was here.

Ala's gaze then landed on a nearby fountain, where water cascaded in perfect symmetry. This place is like a dream... she thought, but as she took a step closer to get a better look at the glowing stones surrounding the water, her foot caught on a small, hidden root. She gasped as she flailed, arms windmilling in an attempt to steady herself.

Whoops!

With a quiet squeal, Ala managed to stumble forward into the fountain's edge, her body twisting in a spectacularly ungraceful way. She landed awkwardly, slipping off the stone, but caught herself before making a bigger splash. A small gasp of horror escaped her as she realized the situation. I just gotNow my my robes wet... come oooon.

She pulled herself up and straightened, looking around sheepishly. Luckily, there were no onlookers. She quickly took a deep breath and muttered to herself, "Okay, Ala... deep breath... it's just water... It's fine."

Still slightly embarrassed, she began looking around for Caltin. Surely, he'd be nearby. Where is he? He said he'd be at the Temple today, but... where? She started asking the nearby Jedi and locals if they had seen him, her voice filled with quiet anxiety. "Excuse me... have you seen a tall, big guy? Jedi Master Vanagor? About this tall, maybe with a lightsaber on his belt? Like...most Jedi would have..."

Some Jedi nodded in passing, others just gave her curious glances, but no one had seen him.

She sighed, muttering, "Typical. I can never find him when I need him..."

Determined, Ala continued her search, weaving through the crowds, hopeful that she'd bump into her overprotective older brother soon enough. Surely, she'd figure out this Temple... with or without his help.

Caltin Vanagor​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…
Kesh - Eskellen Mountains
Temple of the Elements - Starport

The Temple of the Elements was designed much like the Shadow Temple was, with a few serious differences. For one, the Starport was two to three levels below the Common Areas are now, where Ala is. Caltin is in the Starport, overseeing the incoming of ships with supplies, staff, and Jedi. There was still much to be completed in the construction of the Temple, but things were coming along, and the most important aspects (to him), like security were in place. The big man had no issue with death if he was protecting those under his watch(after all… Tython?), but others? That was a facet of his personality that has always held him back, and it was doing so here, thus the added security, like the biots, the Guardians, everything that was supplied graciously by Master Matsu Ike . Caltin was pleased with the progress, ensuring that the Starport's operations ran smoothly. The incoming supplies were crucial for completing the Temple's remaining sections, and the Jedi presence added an air of purpose to the bustling activity. Security remained his top priority as the Temple neared completion.

Connel was here as well, he was upstairs getting his gear together, getting ready to head out on a mission to the planet “Devaron”. The Shadow was really coming into his own, and proving to be out of the old man’s shadow (no pun intended).The Shadow’s growth was evident in his confidence and skill. Caltin couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride, knowing the young Jedi was stepping into his potential. With the Temple’s progress and Connel’s development, the future seemed bright, despite the challenges ahead. Right now, with the next wave of ships not coming in for a bit of time, Caltin could check on other things. However, that was not going to happen as he sensed something…

… or, you guessed it, someone

Her presence in the Force was as undeniable as always. So he gladly nodded to Knight Bucket who stood and watched over the construction of one of the lifts to the lower levels of the Starport and made way to a lift upwards. She was in the common area, and while he could sense her, she could no doubt sense him at this point. It had been some time since the two of them had caught up. She would sense him no doubt by now, but what she would sense would be something different. It was Caltin, no doubt, that had not changed, and there was nothing dark, or sinister about him, but she would notice a familiarity that really no one in the galaxy would at this point. She would sense the aura from “the old days”, the sensory power that made him who he was. Not the change that many had gotten to know and see to this day. There was no doubt a story there, but was there a need to ask about it?

He saw her fall into the fountain, and mentally chuckled, but didn’t say anything. He would however slip into one of the side rooms, not before requesting that no one give his location away, and look through some spare robes that were of her size. Finally picking one that fit her build, and her personality, he stepped out, the robe draped over his shoulder and looked.

Looking for someone?? He said with a smirk, offering the robe. You want something dry? Or is that the new Naboo look?

Ala Quin • TAGS are open but please ask first
[Text in Brackets is spoken on Comm-link] ~Like this is through the Force~​

 

[Ala Quin]

​

Ala spun on her heel at the sound of the familiar voice, curls bouncing with the motion, only to freeze mid-turn when she spotted the robe draped over Caltin’s shoulder.

She blinked.

Then narrowed her eyes.

Then exhaled a long, defeated sigh that might’ve carried half the Common Area’s humidity with it.

“You saw that, didn’t you?” she asked, reaching up to smooth out her damp sleeves with as much dignity as a soggy Jedi could muster.

She padded forward, shoes still squeaking softly against the stone path, and took the robe with a sheepish smile. It was perfectly folded. Of course it was.

“Thank you. I mean it. And for the record, no, this is not the new Naboo look. It’s the ‘I fell into a glorified birdbath because I got distracted by shiny glowing flowers’ look.”

She tucked the dry robe under her arm and glanced around, as if ensuring there were no more witnesses before adding in a mutter—

“The moss was slicker than it looked.”

Despite her embarrassment, her tone was light—teasing even—as she looked back at him. A grin tugged at the corner of her lips.

“I’ve missed you, you know.” Her voice softened just a little.

“They said you might be down by the Starport, but I got a little... sidetracked.” She gestured vaguely to the still-dripping edge of the fountain.

“This place is incredible, though. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Her gaze wandered again, soaking in the cascading light, the greenery, the softly drifting petals from above. She looked small amidst it all—like a spark of mischief in the middle of a sacred grove.

“Show me around later? If I don’t trip over something else first?”

She nudged him lightly with her elbow, her grin finally winning over her earlier fluster.

Caltin Vanagor ​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…
Kesh - Eskellen Mountains
Temple of the Elements - Starport

Stopping and putting hands on hips as he playfully glared at Ala as she faked a smile, nudged him, and even joked about tripping over anything again. He didn’t buy any of it, well, except for missing him. I miss you too. All the time. Still… there was something.

You’re going to make me do it, aren’t you? Sucking on his gumline with a “fecal” eating grin. He held up an index finger and stepped over to a computer panel before speaking out loudly to everyone in earshot.

Everyone! I’m sure that you just saw what happened to my sister here. Now, before any of you point and laugh… He said grinning. I want you to see that it can happen to anyone. Pressing a button lit up one of the projectors, and security footage of “The Room of a Thousand Fountains” lit up the South Wall. Master Vanagor himself was standing there quietly looking over the room, on the edge of one of the splash pools and sipping on what was no doubt a cup of caf.

Then… out of nowhere…

“BARK!”

A four month old Gallinorese Mountain Aak Dog, no, not “Buster”, but @Chrysa Vanagor’s new puppy “Cooper” being his ever rambunctious self.

Well, Caltin was fully engulfed in his surroundings, and the puppy scared the “Sith” out of him. The big man jumped about six inches in the air and ended up goofy-falling into the splash pool. What was he going to do? Be mad at a puppy who was now licking him in the face?

Then he saw the camera, and the footage ended.

There was laughter, but it was subdued as everyone was looking at him with a mixture of shock, surprise, and respect.

Caltin was of course looking at Ala with a smirk, after showing everyone his trademark “grumpiness”, even if in obvious jest. ”It” happens. Don’t worry about it.

The surprises were not done, as, speaking of “Cooper” he and Connel’s dog “Buster” were playing, running through and into the common area, saying “Hiiiii!” to everyone they came in contact with until Buster saw Ala. His eyes lit up and he TORE OFF after her, stopping short. Sitting in front of her, his tail going sixty parsecs a minute, his entire body wiggling and wriggling.

Connel was walking along toward them, he was in full gear, and his astromech “BRAD” rolling alongside. Chrysa as well, whistling and clapping for her puppy as she caught eye of Ala and smiled, not letting the girl get away from a hug. Of course Connel was next. I have to get going, but I wasn’t going to miss this.

Buster heard that, and the pup’s head dropped and he slinked up to his hooman. Of course the Shadow’s entire body softened as he picked his best friend up. I know… I know…. I won’t be long! You have to be a best friend to little Cooper! Cooper of course was now hopping up and down nipping at Connel’s knees. Buster took a minute to lick his face, and he was fine as Connel put him down.

Caltin was just looking at Ala. Now… what are we doing?

Ala Quin • TAGS are open but please ask first
[Text in Brackets is spoken on Comm-link] ~Like this is through the Force~​

 

[Ala Quin]

​

Ala's gaze immediately shifted toward Caltin as he grinned, showing everyone the hilarious footage of him tumbling into the splash pool. She raised an eyebrow, the playful glint in her eyes matching his.

“Oh, really? You had to share that?” she teased, crossing her arms. “You're lucky the camera didn't catch you squealing like a Togruta in a spice market.” Her playful tone softened a little as she caught his gaze, offering a warm smile. She knew he was just having fun, but part of her couldn’t help but feel a tiny bit embarrassed for him too.

As the video finished and everyone chuckled, her attention turned to the puppy antics. Cooper and Buster came tearing through the Common Area, their enthusiastic greeting sending Ala into a delighted laugh.

She crouched down as Buster bounded up to her, his excitement almost contagious.

“Hey there, Buster!” she exclaimed, her hands finding his soft fur as she scratched behind his ears. The pup’s tail wagged so fast it almost blurred. She chuckled at his enthusiasm. “Well, aren't you just full of energy?”

When Connel and Chrysa approached, she stood up to greet them, her smile widening at the sight of them. She gave Chrysa a quick hug and then turned to Connel, grinning despite his serious mission gear.

“Are you sure you're not just here to supervise the dogs?” she teased, nudging him lightly as she stepped back. She couldn’t resist the warmth of their camaraderie. The Shadow’s affection for Buster and Cooper made her smile even more. She even caught a glimpse of how gentle Connel could be with his loyal companion, something she hadn’t seen much of before.

After Buster returned to Connel's side, Ala took a step back, her expression softening. Her eyes returned to Caltin, and she shrugged slightly, a quiet, cryptic tone taking over.

“I’m going to find out more about my past... at least, I hope I do. I’m heading out with Master Phylis Alince to explore the ruins of that cloning facility... the one you saved me from. You know, Venetia's facility? It’s been bothering me. But...” she hesitated, looking at him carefully. “I’m telling you, just in case something happens...you are the one person I know who will always come looking.” Her voice was low, serious for a moment, though the air around her carried a sense of resolve.

“I’ll let you know everything I found out. Maybe it’s time we finally get some answers.”

Caltin Vanagor​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…
Kesh - Eskellen Mountains
Temple of the Elements - Starport

“You're lucky the camera didn't catch you squealing like a Togruta in a spice market.”

Quirking an eyebrow, he shrugged a moment later. It did, I had the volume down.

As the little reunion was happening, and Connel was promising his best friend that he would be back soon, another Jedi took a moment to show something to the big man on a datapad, it was nothing of vital importance, but needed his attention, he looked it over, nodded and sent the Knight on her way. Once Buster got busy showing Cooper how to be “such a cuuutey!” Connel could look and answer “Auntie Ala”

“Are you sure you're not just here to supervise the dogs?”

I wish… but duty calls.

Then when Ala started to explain what she was setting out to do, Caltin quipped absentmindedly… Phylis Alince , haven’t heard that name in awhile… He was about to ask he she still did the visceral “harumphs” out of habit when more details came out. A little more serious tone crept across the massive Jedi Master’s face as he processed what she told him. She was not the little girl always in over her head that he needed to save every five minutes (or so it seemed). She was more than capable on her own… and his tone showed that… well… except for his left hand that hung down to his side. The left hand that was balled into a fist so tightly that it was shaking.

Memories of that time period flooded his mind. Recollections of events he had never told her, times that he did not want her to feel pain over. On top of all that happened. Connel noticed this after giving his mother one last hug and gave him a meaningful look, one that Caltin would know. The Shadow was about to forego his duties to the New Jedi Order and keep an eye on his aunt. Caltin shook his head subtly and momentarily so as not to cause a stir. As much as he wanted to do this. This was as much something she needed to do on her own. He didn’t like it, and didn’t hide it, but he accepted it. As long as you are prepared to accept whatever you might find out there.

As Chrysa took to playing with the pups, Connel took advantage. I have to get going. “BRAD”, you ready? The Astromech rolling up whistled excitedly. Let’s get going. Be safe you five!

Ala Quin • TAGS are open but please ask first
[Text in Brackets is spoken on Comm-link] ~Like this is through the Force~​

 

[Ala Quin]

​

Ala caught the shift in Caltin almost instantly—the subtle tension, the way his hand curled into a fist. She knew that look far too well. It was the weight he always carried, heavy and unseen by most, but never invisible to her.

Her own smile softened, losing some of its earlier mischief. She shifted her stance slightly, stepping closer, but not too close—giving him the space he needed while making sure he felt her presence there, steady and real.

For a moment, she didn’t say anything. Just stood with him, letting the swirl of memories and emotions pass between them like a silent current. No judgment. No pity. Just understanding.

Then, almost lightly, she bumped her shoulder into his arm—a familiar, affectionate nudge that didn't demand anything from him, but offered everything.

"I'm not afraid of what I might find out there," she said quietly, a soft determination weaving through her words. "I'm more afraid of not knowing."

Her gaze lifted to his face, searching for the part of him that might still see her as that reckless little girl, but also hoping he'd see her as she was now—stronger, wiser, but still his sister at heart.

"Besides," she added with a small, mischievous smile tugging at her lips, "I have a pretty good idea who's going to come storming in lightsaber blazing if I don't check in on time."

Her voice dropped just a little, more serious, more sincere.

"I’ll be careful. I promise."

She lingered for just a heartbeat longer, then finally stepped back, letting the sound of Connel’s departure and Chrysa’s laughter with the pups fill the moment again. She wasn’t leaving yet—but when she did, she wanted him to remember that she left with hope, not fear.

And with the unshakable belief that no matter what she uncovered, she wouldn't be facing it alone—not really.

Caltin Vanagor ​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…
Kesh - Eskellen Mountains
Temple of the Elements - Starport

"I'm not afraid of what I might find out there," ... "I'm more afraid of not knowing."

There was never a doubt of this, Ala had always been one for adventure. It’s one of the aspects of her personality that he admired the most. There was never a question to that, or even the thought of her going on this quest. She needed it for her own piece of mind, and the moment she told him, the part of him that was not ready to wreck the universe should she see harm saw that immediately.

Either way, whatever she needed to see in him, she saw easily. Ala had skills he could only wish to have, she knew it, he knew it, she would be fine out there. However, Ala was still his “little sister” and the moment he felt something wrong, he would be coming and “Mustafar would be coming with him”.

They had both changed much over the years (that is not a reference to, or joke about her being a “Clone” either), grown, but there was still a simplicity to their relationship. As Chrysa was now laughing as both Buster and Cooper were “Giving her kisses”, he looked down at them and smiled for a moment before back up to her. She had just reaffirmed what is truly all that he needed to know about her mission of the mind. Never a doubt in my mind… but remember one other thing for me?

Reaching for Chrysa’s hand, and then hers, he quipped This is important to you, and you should follow the trail to the end, if you can, but if you are looking for “family”... well… you already have it.

Before anything could be said, Chrysa agreed wholeheartedly and gave Ala the biggest hug.

Ala Quin • TAGS are open but please ask first
[Text in Brackets is spoken on Comm-link] ~Like this is through the Force~​

 

[Ala Quin]

​

For a moment, Ala couldn’t move.

The warmth of Chrysa’s hug, the fierce, grounding love in Caltin’s words—it wrapped around her like a cloak, safe and familiar. Part of her wanted to just stay there, tucked into that comfort, forget the aching hollow inside her that still whispered late at night.

She smiled against Chrysa’s shoulder, but there was a pang deep in her chest. A flicker of guilt. Wasn’t this enough? Shouldn’t it be?

Her arms tightened briefly around Chrysa before she stepped back, blinking a little too quickly as she looked at Caltin. Her voice, when it came, was quiet—steady, but softer than before.

"I know," she said. "You’ve given me more family than I ever thought I’d have."

She shifted, her hands curling slightly at her sides, trying to gather the swirling emotions into something she could manage. The gratitude. The longing. The guilt. The restless, stubborn hope that still refused to die.

"You and Chrysa—you are my family. Always will be. You’re more than enough." Her eyes glistened slightly, but she held his gaze, not ashamed of the truth that trembled inside her.

"But there’s a part of me that still wonders what it would be like..." she admitted, voice low. "To have someone who shares my blood. To hold a child in my arms and know—really know—they’re part of me. To hug someone and feel... I don't know what I am saying, and I do not want you to think I am not grateful."

Ala inhaled slowly, pressing a hand briefly over her heart as if to steady the beat there.

"I know it might not happen. I’m not chasing a fantasy." A small smile ghosted her lips. "But the not knowing... it unsettles me more than the fear of finding nothing."

She stepped forward again, reaching out to squeeze Caltin’s massive hand between both of hers, small and earnest.

"I’m not leaving what I have. I’m just... finding the rest of me, if there’s any more to find."

Her thumb brushed over his knuckles before she finally let go, her eyes shining not with tears—but with conviction.

"And whatever happens... I'll always come home."

The promise hung between them, quiet and true, even as the laughter of the pups and Chrysa’s voice filled the background once more, reminding Ala exactly what “home” would always mean.

Caltin Vanagor ​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…
Kesh - Eskellen Mountains
Temple of the Elements - Starport

You misunderstand. He listened to everything that she had said; and not only had she not said anything that he did not understand, she did not say anything he did not agree with. It appeared that Chrysa had felt the same way as she whispered something along the lines of a question of how she might not have noticed how mellow the big man was now compared to their “younger” days.

You have to go on this, just saying that you’re not alone. Just reminding you that you never are, or were. As he picked the both of them up with a big “oof” from his wife. It’s only a “fantasy” if you look for something that defines you, this just adds to who you already are.

Putting them down amidst two little yappy pups, he cracked his neck.

Besides… we can always make some calls and find a way to bring Zakk back if we have to. A wink and a smirk later he stood just out of arm smacking range knowing she would get the Zakk Bannon reference.

Ala Quin • TAGS are open but please ask first
[Text in Brackets is spoken on Comm-link] ~Like this is through the Force~​

 

[Ala Quin]

​

Ala let out a laugh despite herself, light and melodic—but there was a shimmer of wetness in her eyes she couldn't hide fast enough. She shook her head, blinking rapidly as she wiped at her cheek with the side of her hand.

"You’re impossible, you know that?" She said, the words thick with affection and a soft ache she hadn’t expected to surface so quickly.

The mention of Zakk was like a chord struck deep within her. Bittersweet. Wistful. She hadn't thought about him like this in so long, and somehow, Caltin had known just how to nudge that memory loose—not to hurt her, but to remind her she had been loved once, truly and deeply. And that love had mattered.

"He really liked you," she added in a quieter voice, a playful, trembling smile tugging at her lips.

Ala drew in a slow breath, grounding herself. This was not a day for ghosts and shadows. It was a day for laughter, for connection, and for moving forward—not away from what had shaped her, but toward the future she still had to build.

She took a step back, glancing around the lively Common Area before returning her gaze to Caltin with a more mischievous glint in her eye.

"Speaking of impossible things..." she began, shifting her weight with an exaggerated stretch of her arms overhead, "since I’m here and you’re in a good mood, think you’ve got time to help me brush up on my Ataru manoeuvres? I'm a little rusty and you’re... well..."

She tilted her head, flashing a teasing grin.

"...not exactly built for acrobatics, but you know the theory pretty well."

There was a playful daring in her tone, but underneath it was something sincere—a need to connect, to learn, and to spend a little more time in the presence of the man who had always, without fail, been her safe place in the galaxy.

Caltin Vanagor ​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…
Kesh - Eskellen Mountains
Temple of the Elements - Starport

There it is.

The favor.

She needed to practice.

Absolutely he would help her, even if it was “Bouncehouse” as he called it.

Blech… Ataru... bouncing around like a Lizard Monkey Truth be told, while he did truly dislike the Form itself, Caltin knew about the strength of it and the advantages it carried, especially for a little pixie like Ala.Caltin knew that Ala's small stature made Ataru a perfect fit for her. Its acrobatic movements and quick strikes would allow her to overcome her physical limitations and become a formidable opponent. Despite his personal distaste for the form, he couldn't deny its effectiveness. Then of course he poked fun as she does.

I will have you know that I am quite athletic, and flexible! Chrysa just looked at him. I am quite mobile! She looked at him some more. Okay, I’m still a Ronto in a pottery stall… but yes, I know the Form! Clapping a hand on his shoulder with a wink, and a kiss on his cheek, she made sure to demand that Ala not leave without them meeting for lunch.

With that, she took the two pups headed towards the outside to go play. Caltin could be seen with an appreciative smile on his face.

You’re going to find love, Ala. You deserve it more than anyone I know. Now, let’s go see what ya got.

Ala Quin • TAGS are open but please ask first
[Text in Brackets is spoken on Comm-link] ~Like this is through the Force~​

 

[Ala Quin]

​

Ala’s steps faltered at Caltin’s words, warmth blossoming in her chest in that way only he could draw out of her. She smiled—genuine, bright—and shook her head softly as she drew up beside him, a twinkle in her eye.

"Funny you should say that..." she mused, her voice carrying a lilt of amusement mixed with something more thoughtful.

She tilted her head slightly, curls slipping over her shoulder as she continued.

"I think I might have found her, actually. Not the way you probably meant it, though." Her tone stayed light, but her expression softened in a way that spoke to something deeper.

"She's young. Bright. A little stubborn, a little wild... and she's looking for someone to believe in her." Ala paused, casting a glance toward the distance as if seeing Isla Reinguard there already, laughing, training, struggling, and growing.

"I’m taking her on as my Padawan," she said, the smile at the corners of her mouth steady and real. "Maybe I can introduce you sometime. I think you’ll approve."

Her heart gave a little flutter at the thought—of building something new, something that might one day feel like the missing pieces she had long yearned for. Maybe this was what the Force had meant all along.

Caltin Vanagor ​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…
Kesh - Eskellen Mountains
Temple of the Elements - Starport

"Funny you should say that..."

Uh oh.

He had heard the rumors of her having “forbidden love” recently. The Sith he had heard about. How her heart was broken. Was this a repeat? She wasn’t the naive little girl she once was, so he trusted her, and her instincts, but that part of him that wanted to wreck the universe to keep her from seeing harm was taking over…

… then she clarified…

"I’m taking her on as my Padawan,"

Padaw… OHHHHHH Okay! Yeah cool! That’s great! Wanting to wipe his brow in relief, but not doing so out of respect, he smiled a little more defined. Look at you! Being all “Master” like and passing on your knowledge!

Genuinely proud of her, by way of his mannerisms and smile, he went on. I am so proud of you! Then he threw his hands out. Makes me wish I thought of you first when my nephew was going to Naboo. He needs work on his confidence, everything he’s been through pretty much destroyed what little he had. He doesn’t know anything about what had, or has been happening on and around Naboo, but he does have feelings and a connection through the Force.

Ala Quin • TAGS are open but please ask first
[Text in Brackets is spoken on Comm-link] ~Like this is through the Force~​

 

[Ala Quin]

​

The moment she saw the quick flicker of panic cross Caltin’s face, Ala couldn't help herself—she let out a soft giggle, her hand covering her mouth in a helpless attempt to hide it. The way he shifted so visibly from terror to immense relief was just too much.

"You should've seen your face!" she teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "For a second there, I thought you were about to throw me over your shoulder and march me off to a monastery."

The teasing faded into a wide, sunny grin when he praised her. Being called "Master-like" by Caltin—it hit differently. Warmth spread through her chest like sunlight after a cold morning.

"Thank you," she said, softer now, the sincerity shining through the playful exterior. "It’s a little scary, honestly. Teaching someone else's kid? Being someone’s guide? It feels big. Like... really big. But I was able to help Manu..."

She rocked lightly back on her heels, the fabric of her robes swaying, her hands clasped behind her back as she listened about his nephew. Her head tilted in that curious little way she had whenever someone sparked her interest.

"You know," she said thoughtfully, "it’s never too late. Maybe he just needs someone to see the good that's already there. Someone to tell him that scars don’t make you broken, just...braver."

Her nose scrunched up slightly in thought—an unconscious, adorable little gesture—and she flashed him another bright smile.

"If he ever needs a friend... or, you know, a 'ridiculously short, stubborn Jedi to yell encouragement at him'... you know where to find me."

There was a beat, then, unable to resist, she nudged his arm with her elbow, her voice dropping into an exaggeratedly mock-serious whisper.

"And don’t worry. I promise not to corrupt him with my 'bouncing Lizard Monkey' Ataru tricks. Probably."

Her laugh bubbled up again, light and infectious, lingering between them like the comfortable warmth of home.

Caltin Vanagor ​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…
Kesh - Eskellen Mountains
Temple of the Elements - Starport

"It’s a little scary, honestly. Teaching someone else's kid? Being someone’s guide? It feels big. Like... really big. But I was able to help Manu..."

Nodding, he understood everything she was bringing up. Ala wasn’t wrong about any of it. These were not the “brought in at birth” Jedi of the old Order. Many times they knew their parents, lived with them. Connel… Michael… then she mentioned someone else…

Manu Najwa… talk about a blast from the past. One of Caltin’s first Padawans, and biggest failures. Good guy, but they just butted heads too much. They were both lucky that Ala took over his training. He needed someone who could help him thrive and the big man could not find the best way to do so.

Anyway, Michael. Yeah, he’s a great kid. Remember Tyria? What am I saying of course you do, she’d never let anyone forget her. She married an Angellus? Well Michael is a distant descendant…

He didn’t go into much detail, but told her how the kid watched his Father die in front of him. Has GREAT instincts, but complains about “lecturers” and not true “teachers”. There was a hint of sadness in his tone. I don’t know the whole story, so I won’t presume anything, but I feel bad for him and Kahne Porte . I asked him if he would help, but there is only so much a man could do.

Reaching the training arena that looked more like a sports arena than anything, and grabbing a bottle of Elba water, offering another to her. Alright, my turn for a favor. I’m not going to pry into his life anymore than I have unless he specifically asks me. Which he never would. If you come across him, would you offer some of your infamous words of spirit?

Pulling out a datapad, he pulled up a picture and showed it to her, a bit embarrassed. This is the last official picture that they had for him in the Order of Shirya… or Shay… I can’t remember what it’s called… their Jedi…

Ala Quin • TAGS are open but please ask first
[Text in Brackets is spoken on Comm-link] ~Like this is through the Force~​

 

[Ala Quin]

Ala accepted the bottle of Elba water with a quiet thanks, taking a sip just as Caltin turned the datapad toward her. The image blinked to life—an official Order photo, awkwardly posed, slightly overexposed... and with that expression.

She snorted.

The laugh escaped before she could stop it, crisp and clear, and she immediately slapped a hand over her mouth, eyes wide in horror.

"Oh stars—I didn’t mean to!" she gasped behind her fingers, cheeks going pink with secondhand embarrassment. "It’s just—that picture! Poor guy, did no one tell him he looked like someone dared him into it?"

She gave Caltin a sideways glance, trying—and failing—not to grin.

Still chuckling softly, she handed the datapad back with a softened expression. The laughter faded into something more thoughtful as she added, "I’ll talk to him if I get the chance. Sounds like he needs someone to just sit with him in the dark a while... not drag him into the light."

Her tone grew quieter then, her thumb absently tracing a line along the bottle in her hand.

"And maybe someone to remind him that even if it hurts, it’s okay to still want to be more than your pain."

She smiled again, this time warm and unguarded, tilting her head toward Caltin.

"I'll be gentle. Elf's honor."

| Tag: Caltin Vanagor |​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…
Kesh - Eskellen Mountains
Temple of the Elements - Starport

The snort broke him.

He couldn’t help but laugh at the poor kid’s picture too.

I know, it’s terrible, but I think it’s also indicative of who he is right now. Getting the laugh out of his system and putting the datapad away, he downed the bottle of water. Then, beginning to stretch, the big man listened as she offered her own unique perspective. It made him feel good that she was there. I’d appreciate that. I wish I could help him more, but I still think I damaged Connel…

He waved off any potential concern there, no sign of sadness on his part, just noting the past.

Now, how do you want to do this? A refresher lesson? A spar? You just coming at me practicing skills? Bouncing around like a Lizardmonkey? A smirk crawled up the side of his lips.

Ala Quin • TAGS are open but please ask first
[Text in Brackets is spoken on Comm-link] ~Like this is through the Force~​

 

[Ala Quin]

Ala's eyes sparkled as she watched Caltin laugh, the familiar warmth between them making her heart feel lighter. She couldn't help but join in with a giggle of her own at the memory of Michael's awkward photo, which only made her smile widen.

"You know, it's funny," she said, wiping the corner of her eye as she regained composure. "But I think this picture might be a perfect reflection of where he is. Not quite sure of himself yet."

She allowed herself to laugh a bit more before her eyes softened, listening closely to what Caltin said about his nephew and his struggles. Her expression grew a little more serious, but she kept that same calm demeanor that always comforted those around her.

"You’re right. Sometimes, people just need someone to see them for who they really are. Not for the labels they wear or the things they’ve been through."

Ala smiled warmly, looking up at Caltin—her towering, steadfast protector—and then absently wrapped her arm around his in a playful gesture, enjoying the contrast of her small form next to his towering presence. For a brief moment, she let her mind wander to an odd thought—what would it be like, one day, to have someone stand by her side in the same way he had always been there for her? But that was a dream for another time.

With a soft chuckle to herself, she sighed and muttered a non-sequitur.

"You’ll make a good Maid of Honour, Caltin." She blinked, then looked up at him, eyes wide with embarrassment as she realized what she’d said out loud.

Quickly, she cleared her throat and added with a small grin, "Alright! Enough of that. Let’s go practice!"

Her voice was light again, filled with that familiar determination, her mind refocusing on the task ahead. She may not have known exactly where her heart would lead, but she knew that, for now, she had her family—both old and new—and they were more than enough to face whatever came next.

| Tag: Caltin Vanagor |​

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…
Kesh - Eskellen Mountains
Temple of the Elements - Starport

He already had two different training sabers in hand, one was a normal practice weapon, the other was a longer “dual”. When she made a comment that threw the big man for a loop.

Maid of… WHAT? What the?. Now she was either talking in circles, or… You’re messing with me!

Tossing the regular training saber to her, he dropped into a defensive stance.

Bounce at me, Lizard Monkey! A smirk crawled up the side of his lips again.

Ala Quin • TAGS are open but please ask first
[Text in Brackets is spoken on Comm-link] ~Like this is through the Force~​