Ossus was a world of beauty, her seas were a never ending blue and her mountains were snow capped wonders while her plains were the most verdant green. The Lightside of the Force wove paths of great steadiness here and to be one sensitive to its currents as Evelyn and Ben were, it was a truly peaceful thing. Once the Padawan sat and enjoyed the view for a moment and she asked her question, Ben replied with a brief introduction to the world before them. But he did not let on entirely why they were here. “There is much that Ossus can offer us in training but to find that fulfilling enlightenment that we’re here for, you’ll have to learn that yourself.” He had no doubt that she would eventually seek out and learn the truth behind their journey here in time. Until then, he would guide her accordingly.
The ’Talon’ swept down into the outer layers of the world and the blue crest of the atmosphere enveloped them to press away the darkness of space to give way to the white of the clouds. As they came in the sheer depths of the skies was astounding and it made the ship they flew within seem so very tiny in comparison.
Flying ever further into the skies of Ossus a range of peaks began to rise through the clouds. The crystalline snow glittered in the dawning sunshine at altitudes still too high for a sentient being to breath without some kind of support. The ’Talon’ descended further and finally broke through the overcast and into the arms of a mountainous range that stretched for miles in every direction with glacial rivers stitching across it; one in particular was a natural canyon that was so utterly massive it defied the sensibilities to estimate its true size.
Their ship dipped into this canyon and immediately it was rebuffed by a strong wind though Ben’s experienced hand behind the flight controls kept it steady, he showed no concern on his face as to the danger that was actually beset upon them for one simple glance on the canyon wall could dash them into oblivion so very easily.
Further still they flew until the canyon dumped itself into a massive lake of glacier water and the mountains seemed to part to allow this glass lake exist hidden within. There in the middle of the lake was a small island not big enough to land on. Upon it sat what seemed to be a stone building though from their view it was hard to tell. Ben banked the ship to the starboard and directed it to the shore of the lake where he set the ship down in view of a tiny ferry station.
He looked to Evy and gave her a confident nod. “We’re here.” Pointing to the ferry station he added, “go and fetch us permission to use the ferry. We need to get to the island in the middle of the lake. I’ll be right behind you.”
The ferry station, if it could be called as much, was little more than a wooden shake of great age. More a fishing post than a ferry station, the old cast nets were draped over a small fence, themselves rotten from age and not being used. The ferry was hardly a boat at all, being a wooden platform of small size. Yet it was the only means to cross this freezing lake and it was guarded by an old man with wrinkles upon wrinkles who sat on the shoreline with an unlit pipe and a stare that could tell the story of his age and beyond.
It was up to Evelyn Swann to get this grouchy old sailor to cooperate… her first trial here on Ossus…
The Eocho Mountains
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Evelyn Swann
- Registered Member
- Posts: 116
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 2:28 pm
- Location: Everywhere
Re: The Eocho Mountains
Evelyn listened intently to her Master's introduction while they came closer to their destination and she sat there enjoying the view around them. It was truly astounding the nature of Ossus. She had never in her lifetime been to Ossus, but she was sure that Ben had his reasons for them to come to this place. He was rather vague with his briefing however, not to mention mysterious, as if he just let the information linger in the air, like a crime needed to be solved. Had he already given her a task she wasn't even aware of yet? Raising a brow from mere curiosity, young Miss Swann tilted her head, a small smile creeping up on her. "Why, aren't you just the cunning riddler all of a sudden Master Kenobi?" She inquired with a light chuckle. "Fine, alright, I know I don't have to be told everything for training reasons and all that... but come on... I mean.... an island in the middle of a freezing lake, with only one way back and forth...?" Her features had turned more serious now to show her teacher that she wasn't messing about while her right hand gestured in the direction of the small island. "I am not sure why you leave some out, but I hope you are aware that I will find out one way or another Master. And I know that you know that I will. I always do. I only want to say that it leaves me slightly confused about all of this, but I also have told you that I trust you with my life, so of course, I will go get it done."
She nodded and rose from her seat to begin her walk to the small "ferry" and "ferry man". Once she hit the button to the ramp to start its descend, she tugged her robes closer around her being as the cooling wind washed over her face. Walking down the ramp, she kept a determined pace towards the elderly man guarding the small wooden platform. About twenty feet away from him, the young brunette began to call out in a kind a gentle voice as the distance grew shorter for each step she took. "Hello there! Nice to meet you, I am sorry to bother you Mister, but you see, a friend of mine and myself are in the need of your help to get across these waters." The Jedi Padawan was now only about six feet away from him, bringing up a small positive smile before giving a respectful bow. His appearance and marks showed her that he had been through his in life. Maybe a sailor war veteran whom had retreated to this area of the planet for the peace and quiet? His eyes were full of history, and sitting on the shoreline with a pipe that was unlit told Evy that he had his inner demons as well.
"I see you..." Swann spoke softly, caringly with a warmth of calm echoing from her person. "I can see and I understand that the war which happened on this planet has taken its toll on the natives living here." She didn't allow the elderly man to react before she was done, as her actions spoke loudly enough in themselves. In his eyes, she saw grief, she knew that look only too well. From herself... Someone had been lost in the process. Evelyn knew she had to do this, she had to try and help. So as soon as she was close enough she sat down next to the sailor, messing with something in one of her small pouches attached to her leather belt. It was a lighter, he had yet to smoke on his pipe as it didn't smell of burned bacco, but fresh, so the young lady gestured for him to take it. "Please, take this, I know it isn't much, but I want to help in any way I can. What are you in need of my friend? Maybe if I help you, you could guide me in the right direction to get across?" Smiling softly to the elderly man, she didn't ask of his assistance as she knew he would most likely refuse if she did. She needed to show him that she cared genuinely and didn't do this kindness out of expectation of anything in return. That would be to break a trust, not to mention hope of good in others and Evelyn had been through many places touched by war. And in that time, she had helped many long before she stumbled into Ben that life changing day...
She nodded and rose from her seat to begin her walk to the small "ferry" and "ferry man". Once she hit the button to the ramp to start its descend, she tugged her robes closer around her being as the cooling wind washed over her face. Walking down the ramp, she kept a determined pace towards the elderly man guarding the small wooden platform. About twenty feet away from him, the young brunette began to call out in a kind a gentle voice as the distance grew shorter for each step she took. "Hello there! Nice to meet you, I am sorry to bother you Mister, but you see, a friend of mine and myself are in the need of your help to get across these waters." The Jedi Padawan was now only about six feet away from him, bringing up a small positive smile before giving a respectful bow. His appearance and marks showed her that he had been through his in life. Maybe a sailor war veteran whom had retreated to this area of the planet for the peace and quiet? His eyes were full of history, and sitting on the shoreline with a pipe that was unlit told Evy that he had his inner demons as well.
"I see you..." Swann spoke softly, caringly with a warmth of calm echoing from her person. "I can see and I understand that the war which happened on this planet has taken its toll on the natives living here." She didn't allow the elderly man to react before she was done, as her actions spoke loudly enough in themselves. In his eyes, she saw grief, she knew that look only too well. From herself... Someone had been lost in the process. Evelyn knew she had to do this, she had to try and help. So as soon as she was close enough she sat down next to the sailor, messing with something in one of her small pouches attached to her leather belt. It was a lighter, he had yet to smoke on his pipe as it didn't smell of burned bacco, but fresh, so the young lady gestured for him to take it. "Please, take this, I know it isn't much, but I want to help in any way I can. What are you in need of my friend? Maybe if I help you, you could guide me in the right direction to get across?" Smiling softly to the elderly man, she didn't ask of his assistance as she knew he would most likely refuse if she did. She needed to show him that she cared genuinely and didn't do this kindness out of expectation of anything in return. That would be to break a trust, not to mention hope of good in others and Evelyn had been through many places touched by war. And in that time, she had helped many long before she stumbled into Ben that life changing day...
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Ben Kenobi
- Staff
- Posts: 649
- Joined: Wed Sep 06, 2017 12:54 am
Re: The Eocho Mountains
The old sailor sat alone in the chill of the late morning, when Evelyn Swann spoke he didn't even so much as look in her direction, he simply looked out across the freezing lake and thumbed his pipe. But in truth he had heard every word and he had listened to the very inflection of her voice and it moved him. Though to break the stoic outlook the old man had would have been to break the still waters that glistened with the fading twinkle of the stars as the nearby sun banished them for the coming daylight.
Even so, after several near awkward minutes of absolute silence, he flicked the lighter into life and the glow illuminated his hand and face. He lifted the device to his pipe yet he paused in that moment and lowered it, no longer could he pay the young woman so little heed.
With a grizzled face he looked at her a moment and like the northern end of the lake where the ice formed over the waters, the ice began to crack in the warmth of the sun. From the side of his mouth beneath the heavy mustache and rough beard came the crease of a smile. Ben missed this sign though it was reserved for a brief moment between Evelyn and the sailor. Then it was gone and the lighter rose to the pipe once more; warm orange flames burned and a smooth oaken smoke rolled up and into the air.
Enjoying the flavoring he'd packed into the pipe this morning, he finally spoke. "We had best get on with it then, lass." A rolling accent came from his voice combined with his advanced age, it was a melody of tone upon gravel, the perfect gruff mixture of a sailor.
Without anything further the old man stood up and walked on with a slight limp to his left leg that seemed to come from his knee though he was no weaker in stance for it, in fact he was firm upon those sea legs on which he walked.
Ben Kenobi came up finally, while he'd not caught the spoken words or the exchange, he came to her with an eyebrow raised with some surprise. "Well then. I've never seen him give in so quickly. Whatever you said must've been spot on." Master and Apprentice walked side by side to the dockside, the sailor ahead of them and out of earshot.
The Jedi Master pointed across the lake. "That island is not our final destination, but it is no less an important step in your lesson here." He fished into a belt pouch and retrieved a sphere that was no bigger than a marble and it was polished to a perfect shine. He handed it to Evelyn, "when you get to where you're going, use this and it will show you where we must go next." The marble was a device used in navigation for the Jedi; once set on a special holoprojector it could bring up images of locations that were vivid and precise. What made it truly special was that once the Jedi focused on the device the Force would respond and show them something. That something was what Ben wanted for her to see.
Furthermore he also had implied that she'd be taking this trip by herself and without his guidance. If he went with her then he could become a distraction. He also wanted to show her that he trusted to let her make her own decisions.
They arrived on the docks and in confirmation he did not board the ferry, instead he stood tall and set both hands on his staff. He gave her a confident nod before she left.
"Burning daylight, lass. Let's be on about it." Came a near impatient call from the sailor who continued to puff on his pipe. Once she came aboard he yanked the rope free of the dock and the ferry began to drift though he expertly redirected the currents with an oar from the rear of the ferry and slowly but surely the raft coasted across the waters. As it did so the ferry broke the waters in a gentle wake. Frost parted from their path and in silence they went.
After a few moments, perhaps half across the waters the old sailor again spoke. "Thank you." He lit the pipe again with the lighter. "My trips into town are rough on the knee. I'd not been in a month and my match book is wet from this morning's dew."
For another while he sailed the ferry and yet again he spoke to her from the heart. "You were right back there lass, the Empire left scars on this world that will never be healed even through time. And even though the Empire is long gone from here, I know the Jedi face them and oppose their tyranny. Most young Jedi expect to be led by the hand or expect something in return, you didn't even ask for anything. I won't forget it, lass."
In some time the ferry arrived into shallow waters, they could go no further and the sailor set his oar into the ground, the ferry gently stopped. "Don't be too long, the sun warms the lake water and the critters on the bottom start to get hungry."
The island itself was quite small and had only a single structure. It was a small stone monument that was the entry point of a small bunker where within it was one of the few untouched relics that had survived the Great Jedi Purge commanded by Emperor Palpatine nearly forty years ago.
What was inside though, Evelyn Swann would have to find for herself.
Even so, after several near awkward minutes of absolute silence, he flicked the lighter into life and the glow illuminated his hand and face. He lifted the device to his pipe yet he paused in that moment and lowered it, no longer could he pay the young woman so little heed.
With a grizzled face he looked at her a moment and like the northern end of the lake where the ice formed over the waters, the ice began to crack in the warmth of the sun. From the side of his mouth beneath the heavy mustache and rough beard came the crease of a smile. Ben missed this sign though it was reserved for a brief moment between Evelyn and the sailor. Then it was gone and the lighter rose to the pipe once more; warm orange flames burned and a smooth oaken smoke rolled up and into the air.
Enjoying the flavoring he'd packed into the pipe this morning, he finally spoke. "We had best get on with it then, lass." A rolling accent came from his voice combined with his advanced age, it was a melody of tone upon gravel, the perfect gruff mixture of a sailor.
Without anything further the old man stood up and walked on with a slight limp to his left leg that seemed to come from his knee though he was no weaker in stance for it, in fact he was firm upon those sea legs on which he walked.
Ben Kenobi came up finally, while he'd not caught the spoken words or the exchange, he came to her with an eyebrow raised with some surprise. "Well then. I've never seen him give in so quickly. Whatever you said must've been spot on." Master and Apprentice walked side by side to the dockside, the sailor ahead of them and out of earshot.
The Jedi Master pointed across the lake. "That island is not our final destination, but it is no less an important step in your lesson here." He fished into a belt pouch and retrieved a sphere that was no bigger than a marble and it was polished to a perfect shine. He handed it to Evelyn, "when you get to where you're going, use this and it will show you where we must go next." The marble was a device used in navigation for the Jedi; once set on a special holoprojector it could bring up images of locations that were vivid and precise. What made it truly special was that once the Jedi focused on the device the Force would respond and show them something. That something was what Ben wanted for her to see.
Furthermore he also had implied that she'd be taking this trip by herself and without his guidance. If he went with her then he could become a distraction. He also wanted to show her that he trusted to let her make her own decisions.
They arrived on the docks and in confirmation he did not board the ferry, instead he stood tall and set both hands on his staff. He gave her a confident nod before she left.
"Burning daylight, lass. Let's be on about it." Came a near impatient call from the sailor who continued to puff on his pipe. Once she came aboard he yanked the rope free of the dock and the ferry began to drift though he expertly redirected the currents with an oar from the rear of the ferry and slowly but surely the raft coasted across the waters. As it did so the ferry broke the waters in a gentle wake. Frost parted from their path and in silence they went.
After a few moments, perhaps half across the waters the old sailor again spoke. "Thank you." He lit the pipe again with the lighter. "My trips into town are rough on the knee. I'd not been in a month and my match book is wet from this morning's dew."
For another while he sailed the ferry and yet again he spoke to her from the heart. "You were right back there lass, the Empire left scars on this world that will never be healed even through time. And even though the Empire is long gone from here, I know the Jedi face them and oppose their tyranny. Most young Jedi expect to be led by the hand or expect something in return, you didn't even ask for anything. I won't forget it, lass."
In some time the ferry arrived into shallow waters, they could go no further and the sailor set his oar into the ground, the ferry gently stopped. "Don't be too long, the sun warms the lake water and the critters on the bottom start to get hungry."
The island itself was quite small and had only a single structure. It was a small stone monument that was the entry point of a small bunker where within it was one of the few untouched relics that had survived the Great Jedi Purge commanded by Emperor Palpatine nearly forty years ago.
What was inside though, Evelyn Swann would have to find for herself.
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Evelyn Swann
- Registered Member
- Posts: 116
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 2:28 pm
- Location: Everywhere
Re: The Eocho Mountains
If there was anything Evy had been taught in life it was to be patient. And with the elderly sailor it was no different. She didn't force him to respond right away, no, she simply continued to smile kindly at him, waiting for him to engage the conversation when he felt ready at his own pace. As she waited, she suddenly noticed it. Even if it was for a mere second. He gave her a small smile. Nodding in return respectfully, Evelyn knew she had reached him in some way. Progress, wonderful. As she didn't know his story, she could only guess. Then words. The sailor spoke briefly, and Miss Swann knew it was time to keep up now and be aware of her surroundings once more. "Thank you so very much, please... lead the way my friend." She replied with another benevolent smile upon her lips, before gesturing for him to lead the way.
It didn't take long after her small encounter with the sailor that her friend and teacher showed up, looking surprised. Tilting her head, Evy listened to Ben as they started walking. She couldn't help but feel her smile getting bigger, genuinely happy to have brought some positivity into the sailor's life today. "I only showed him one thing really... selfless kindness."
Her hazel coloured eyes followed his hand's direction out to the island as she continued to walk with him, her grey-ish robes waving playfully in the gust near the shore of the lake. She then quirked a brow out of curiosity to this new information given to her. Even more so when she saw the small marble like device. Her senses were wide awake and she listened intently to every word Master Kenobi said next. Where we must go next... hmm... alright... She thought to herself. Was this some test of her resolve to unexpected situations? This the young lady wasn't sure of whatsoever. Maybe a history lesson? Dang it, she didn't know. What she did know was that Ben had in mind for her to get to the island alone, which was slightly confusing as he earlier had mentioned that they would need the ferry. How peculiar really. Much had really changed since she had been away. It was serious business now, and she had to keep at it or she wouldn't get through this in the end.
Maybe he wanted to see how she worked alone now. After the last mission she had been given on Kashyyyk, it hadn't ended well with Sith attack and everything. Perhaps he was inspecting her progress in training and study? All the different questions were running through her mind and were a distraction of what was currently in front of her. So young Miss Swann took a deep breath and relaxed, now was not the time to focus on something that was trivial in the end. Here and now was what she had to focus on. Reaching the first destination on this untold adventure, the docks, she stopped for a moment to look behind her. Watching her teacher stand there, she returned the confident nod before moving on to the small ferry owned by the sailor. His comment came out as a bit impatient, so in order to not be disrespectful, Evelyn jogged the rest of her way across the wooden docks. Boarding the small ferry or raft more likely, she watched as they were away out to the depths of the half frozen lake.
Silence had surrounded them for a good while until the sailor spoke to her again. He thanked her, not only that, he'd begun to open up more. How delightful really. This was something Evy enjoyed. To make others around her feel safe and respected in such a way. It meant the galaxy to her. "No preoblem Mister, I am only happy to be able to help out." A gentle smile plastered itself upon her features, she had done the right thing. And she felt good about her choice to handle this situation. She even almost wanted to shed a small tear in acknowledgment of his heartfelt honesty and openness. "I believe that with selflessness and kindness in your heart, you can do anything and the Force will give you the right thing you need someday. With you however, I honestly felt all the pain and frustration. I can relate as the Sith and the Empire had taken everything I ever cared for away from me when I was very young. I know loss when I see it, because you see, I have that same experience. Thank you for your honesty and for sharing so openly with me." Her features showed gratitude for this sailor's actions.
They continued across the icy waters before they had reached their destination. The shallow waters playfully cascading small waves against the raft they were on. "Don't worry my friend, I won't be long, I promise." She had heard his small warning of what danger that actually slumbered deep below the surface of this lake. What they were, Evy didn't know, and she honestly did not want to find out while in the open. She jumped off the small ferry and forced herself forward in the shallow waters reaching just below her knees.
Getting to the high ground of the island, she began her small journey to this lonely structure in the middle of everything. Beginning to jog once more, the young Padawan swiftly reached the monument within moments. It was clearly a very old structure, way before her time. Her eyes looked around curiously to see if she could find any form of clue to this. Cleansing her mind from thoughts and other things that wasn't important right now, she called upon the Force for guidance.
Walking closer to the monument, she lifted her left arm and placed her hand upon the stone. Closing her eyes, she concentrated and meditated through the Force to find answers. At first it wasn't easy. The Force could vague depending on what you asked for.
A lot of history had also happened here, especially Jedi history. It was very overwhelming through the Force. Almost as if she had her breath knocked out of her. So much life... so much death... There is no death, only the Force... She repeated in her mind calmly. Then a small part of the structure began to tremble. The thin layer of ice upon the stone in front of her began to crackle and Evy could see a door appear underneath. Adding pressure, the young brunette pushed the door open with effort and difficulty. Dust attacked her headstrong and she quickly lifted her right arm to cover her face with her sleeve until the dust settled. Taking a deep breath, she entered into the darkness. Fiddling with another of her small belt pouches, she found a glowstick and activated it, holding it up with her left hand. This place... Was this one of the surviving bunkers she had read about back on Permafrost in one of her Jedi History lessons? She believed it was, though which one, that she didn't know of. Squinting her eyes, she took in every nook and cranny, every detail, every single written thing that could be a clue as to what she was looking for in here.
It seemed to be of some kind of mapping, some kind of location tracker maybe? Again she continued to search further in the bunker for an answer. Patiently yet quick as well, Evy decided it was time to look closer at the small marble thingy that Ben had given her. Pulling it up from the back pouch on her belt, she studied it for a moment before she looked at some readings on the wall nearby.
"Loose your marbles and you won't find the way. Give your trust to the marbles and you will find the way." The readings were like riddles in a way. But she had stumbled into similar ones previously on the other side of the room. Focussing on the small navigation devices, Evelyn placed the one she had in symbiosis with the rest. Then slam, bright colours and images appeared before her. Places she couldn't recognise. Had she figured it out? Blinking rapidly, Evelyn rubbed her eyes to adjust. Looking closer yet, she found different planets including Ossus where they were currently. What was it she was supposed to see? She asked the Force this question as much as herself.
Then she thought she was going crazy, as it sounded like a distant choir of a gentle soft melody. She listened, she followed. There! Bright light shined. She had a theory that only those on the Light Side of the Force could find this, but she was of course not sure. However to her, it felt like singing mountains. Almost echoing throughout the room. That had to mean something right? A clue to the next destination perhaps? She'd have to ask Ben about this discovery.
As Evelyn reached for the device she had brought with her, she stopped. Frozen in place... her heartbeat began to go faster, her vision blurred from approaching tears... There was more... an unknown destination, her sister.... her sister was there near water or maybe an ocean? She could sense it... Was the Force toying with her mind, or was it giving her a hint about the upcoming future? Blinking a few times she dried her eyes in her robes before she grabbed the device and chose to leave. She had found what she came for and swiftly moved out of the bunker and back towards the elderly sailor and his ferry raft. "Hope I didn't take too long. Let's get back to the shore so we won't be the underwater critters' food source today." Smiling softly she jumped up upon the raft and waited for the sailor to bring them back to the shore.
It didn't take long after her small encounter with the sailor that her friend and teacher showed up, looking surprised. Tilting her head, Evy listened to Ben as they started walking. She couldn't help but feel her smile getting bigger, genuinely happy to have brought some positivity into the sailor's life today. "I only showed him one thing really... selfless kindness."
Her hazel coloured eyes followed his hand's direction out to the island as she continued to walk with him, her grey-ish robes waving playfully in the gust near the shore of the lake. She then quirked a brow out of curiosity to this new information given to her. Even more so when she saw the small marble like device. Her senses were wide awake and she listened intently to every word Master Kenobi said next. Where we must go next... hmm... alright... She thought to herself. Was this some test of her resolve to unexpected situations? This the young lady wasn't sure of whatsoever. Maybe a history lesson? Dang it, she didn't know. What she did know was that Ben had in mind for her to get to the island alone, which was slightly confusing as he earlier had mentioned that they would need the ferry. How peculiar really. Much had really changed since she had been away. It was serious business now, and she had to keep at it or she wouldn't get through this in the end.
Maybe he wanted to see how she worked alone now. After the last mission she had been given on Kashyyyk, it hadn't ended well with Sith attack and everything. Perhaps he was inspecting her progress in training and study? All the different questions were running through her mind and were a distraction of what was currently in front of her. So young Miss Swann took a deep breath and relaxed, now was not the time to focus on something that was trivial in the end. Here and now was what she had to focus on. Reaching the first destination on this untold adventure, the docks, she stopped for a moment to look behind her. Watching her teacher stand there, she returned the confident nod before moving on to the small ferry owned by the sailor. His comment came out as a bit impatient, so in order to not be disrespectful, Evelyn jogged the rest of her way across the wooden docks. Boarding the small ferry or raft more likely, she watched as they were away out to the depths of the half frozen lake.
Silence had surrounded them for a good while until the sailor spoke to her again. He thanked her, not only that, he'd begun to open up more. How delightful really. This was something Evy enjoyed. To make others around her feel safe and respected in such a way. It meant the galaxy to her. "No preoblem Mister, I am only happy to be able to help out." A gentle smile plastered itself upon her features, she had done the right thing. And she felt good about her choice to handle this situation. She even almost wanted to shed a small tear in acknowledgment of his heartfelt honesty and openness. "I believe that with selflessness and kindness in your heart, you can do anything and the Force will give you the right thing you need someday. With you however, I honestly felt all the pain and frustration. I can relate as the Sith and the Empire had taken everything I ever cared for away from me when I was very young. I know loss when I see it, because you see, I have that same experience. Thank you for your honesty and for sharing so openly with me." Her features showed gratitude for this sailor's actions.
They continued across the icy waters before they had reached their destination. The shallow waters playfully cascading small waves against the raft they were on. "Don't worry my friend, I won't be long, I promise." She had heard his small warning of what danger that actually slumbered deep below the surface of this lake. What they were, Evy didn't know, and she honestly did not want to find out while in the open. She jumped off the small ferry and forced herself forward in the shallow waters reaching just below her knees.
Getting to the high ground of the island, she began her small journey to this lonely structure in the middle of everything. Beginning to jog once more, the young Padawan swiftly reached the monument within moments. It was clearly a very old structure, way before her time. Her eyes looked around curiously to see if she could find any form of clue to this. Cleansing her mind from thoughts and other things that wasn't important right now, she called upon the Force for guidance.
Walking closer to the monument, she lifted her left arm and placed her hand upon the stone. Closing her eyes, she concentrated and meditated through the Force to find answers. At first it wasn't easy. The Force could vague depending on what you asked for.
A lot of history had also happened here, especially Jedi history. It was very overwhelming through the Force. Almost as if she had her breath knocked out of her. So much life... so much death... There is no death, only the Force... She repeated in her mind calmly. Then a small part of the structure began to tremble. The thin layer of ice upon the stone in front of her began to crackle and Evy could see a door appear underneath. Adding pressure, the young brunette pushed the door open with effort and difficulty. Dust attacked her headstrong and she quickly lifted her right arm to cover her face with her sleeve until the dust settled. Taking a deep breath, she entered into the darkness. Fiddling with another of her small belt pouches, she found a glowstick and activated it, holding it up with her left hand. This place... Was this one of the surviving bunkers she had read about back on Permafrost in one of her Jedi History lessons? She believed it was, though which one, that she didn't know of. Squinting her eyes, she took in every nook and cranny, every detail, every single written thing that could be a clue as to what she was looking for in here.
It seemed to be of some kind of mapping, some kind of location tracker maybe? Again she continued to search further in the bunker for an answer. Patiently yet quick as well, Evy decided it was time to look closer at the small marble thingy that Ben had given her. Pulling it up from the back pouch on her belt, she studied it for a moment before she looked at some readings on the wall nearby.
"Loose your marbles and you won't find the way. Give your trust to the marbles and you will find the way." The readings were like riddles in a way. But she had stumbled into similar ones previously on the other side of the room. Focussing on the small navigation devices, Evelyn placed the one she had in symbiosis with the rest. Then slam, bright colours and images appeared before her. Places she couldn't recognise. Had she figured it out? Blinking rapidly, Evelyn rubbed her eyes to adjust. Looking closer yet, she found different planets including Ossus where they were currently. What was it she was supposed to see? She asked the Force this question as much as herself.
Then she thought she was going crazy, as it sounded like a distant choir of a gentle soft melody. She listened, she followed. There! Bright light shined. She had a theory that only those on the Light Side of the Force could find this, but she was of course not sure. However to her, it felt like singing mountains. Almost echoing throughout the room. That had to mean something right? A clue to the next destination perhaps? She'd have to ask Ben about this discovery.
As Evelyn reached for the device she had brought with her, she stopped. Frozen in place... her heartbeat began to go faster, her vision blurred from approaching tears... There was more... an unknown destination, her sister.... her sister was there near water or maybe an ocean? She could sense it... Was the Force toying with her mind, or was it giving her a hint about the upcoming future? Blinking a few times she dried her eyes in her robes before she grabbed the device and chose to leave. She had found what she came for and swiftly moved out of the bunker and back towards the elderly sailor and his ferry raft. "Hope I didn't take too long. Let's get back to the shore so we won't be the underwater critters' food source today." Smiling softly she jumped up upon the raft and waited for the sailor to bring them back to the shore.
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Ben Kenobi
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Re: The Eocho Mountains
Ben felt a shift in the Force in that moment, he could feel Evelyn’s newest revelations. Not the details in which she’d witnessed them but certainly that something had occurred. He would be sure to ask her about what had happened once they had a moment to speak on these things. Even now they were heading over from the tiny island across the freezing lake; he could see the old sailor speaking with her and from the look on his face it was a casual conversation and without the serious weight he’d held before.
This brought a smile to Ben’s features. That old man had been alone for so long and he needed someone to speak with. Indeed the old man had chosen to remain secluded way out here on his own but everyone needed someone every now and again. Their chat brought them towards the docks and seeing that the two were pleasantly chatting, Ben decided not to make them feel rushed to leave and so he retreated without much notice back to the ’Talon’ where he could patiently await Evelyn’s return and they could together meditate on what she had discovered and thus discover where they must go next.
Soon as he boarded his ship the blasted chill wind of the mountains ceased to assault him and he made to the galley where he set up a fresh pot of caf; no doubt Evelyn would appreciate some of the warm liquid. In addition Ben set up enough portion for a third person as did he set out a third cup that Evelyn could take one down to the old sailor. Ben didn’t need the Force to be able to anticipate Evelyn’s kindness.
As the caf began to boil Ben took a seat in the middle of the floor with his staff setting across his lap, he closed his eyes and calmed his mind. A moment’s recollection would provide insight or at the very least it would help him prepare for the coming journey into the frozen mountains…
This brought a smile to Ben’s features. That old man had been alone for so long and he needed someone to speak with. Indeed the old man had chosen to remain secluded way out here on his own but everyone needed someone every now and again. Their chat brought them towards the docks and seeing that the two were pleasantly chatting, Ben decided not to make them feel rushed to leave and so he retreated without much notice back to the ’Talon’ where he could patiently await Evelyn’s return and they could together meditate on what she had discovered and thus discover where they must go next.
Soon as he boarded his ship the blasted chill wind of the mountains ceased to assault him and he made to the galley where he set up a fresh pot of caf; no doubt Evelyn would appreciate some of the warm liquid. In addition Ben set up enough portion for a third person as did he set out a third cup that Evelyn could take one down to the old sailor. Ben didn’t need the Force to be able to anticipate Evelyn’s kindness.
As the caf began to boil Ben took a seat in the middle of the floor with his staff setting across his lap, he closed his eyes and calmed his mind. A moment’s recollection would provide insight or at the very least it would help him prepare for the coming journey into the frozen mountains…
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Evelyn Swann
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- Location: Everywhere
Re: The Eocho Mountains
She noticed the sailor gave another small smile like the one he granted her previously, as if he was amused by her comment. Evelyn did not say much on their trip back across the lake. She listened to the elderly sailor whom had inaugurated her in a small story of his past. Back when the Jedi fought against the Empire and the tricky Sith in a desperate try to keep the peace in the galaxy. This was just a history lesson that Evy couldn't ignore. He had opened up to her more than what he had done towards others from what she could understand from Master Kenobi before she left. This was invaluable, this was what wanted her to keep going forward, to keep fighting for justice and peace.
Once close to the docks, Evy shared her own little story to the sailor about her travel to Nar Shaddaa a couple of years ago. As she had finished her small tale, she searched for Kenobi only to find him nowhere. Blinking curiously, the young brunette rose a brow before telling the sailor that she would be back in a moment, and was forever grateful for his help in this endeavour.
Sprinting through the docks, she ran towards the Talon while being met by the freezing cold gust once more. It made her pull in her grey-ish robes again as her pants and boots still hadn't dried completely from the small dip in the shallow waters around the island. Thankfully she could sense that Master Kenobi was aboard his ship. Entering and catching her breath from the running, she noticed the nice smell of caf being made. Oh that's nice. Good idea Master. She thought as she headed to the galley where she found Ben sitting on the floor meditating. Smiling softly at him when she noticed the three cups on the counter, she knew that she had become too predictable in her kindness to others. But Evelyn just couldn't help it really.
Miss Swann knew that Ben would be waiting for her return, and she knew that he knew she wouldn't stray from their current mission, whatever that was. Once the caf was done, she took the liberty to pour the hot liquid into the cups, before she left with one and let the two others stay on the counter. She wouldn't be long.
As the young lady had ventured back to the docks with the cup of caf for the sailor despite the bone chilling wind surrounding her, she smiled kindly at him as she approached. "Here, the winds are maliciously cold today. Master Kenobi and I insist." She handed him the cup before she sat down next to him once again if only for a brief moment. "Regarding the story I told you of Nar Shaddaa. After I helped out in the gambling sector, the locals gave me this." Evelyn reached for her left pouch and swiftly fished up a small carved out figure, about hand size, made from a part of the horns of a Bantha. The figure itself representing a Krayt Dragon. The details remarkle as it was handmade. "A small souvenir from my adventures on Nar Shaddaa, the locals insisted and called it a luck charm. I've had it on me ever since." Evelyn decided as a faith of good will to pass this token on to the sailor. "See this as my way of gratitude to your kindness towards me, and a promise that no matter how difficult times may sometimes seem, the Force will always be with you and thus I will too."
With that said, Evy wanted to do one last gesture before their departing... Searching for one of her chips with a few thousand credits on, the lady wanted to offer him the chip for repairs of his raft, or for him to do something nice for himself. "Lastly, I want to give you this. If not, that is fine too, but honestly, I must speak my mind and say that I think you more than deserve it my friend. The final choice is yours of course. I don't want to force anything down your throat." Chuckling softly she waited patiently for the sailor's decision as she reached out her hand with the credit chip.
Once close to the docks, Evy shared her own little story to the sailor about her travel to Nar Shaddaa a couple of years ago. As she had finished her small tale, she searched for Kenobi only to find him nowhere. Blinking curiously, the young brunette rose a brow before telling the sailor that she would be back in a moment, and was forever grateful for his help in this endeavour.
Sprinting through the docks, she ran towards the Talon while being met by the freezing cold gust once more. It made her pull in her grey-ish robes again as her pants and boots still hadn't dried completely from the small dip in the shallow waters around the island. Thankfully she could sense that Master Kenobi was aboard his ship. Entering and catching her breath from the running, she noticed the nice smell of caf being made. Oh that's nice. Good idea Master. She thought as she headed to the galley where she found Ben sitting on the floor meditating. Smiling softly at him when she noticed the three cups on the counter, she knew that she had become too predictable in her kindness to others. But Evelyn just couldn't help it really.
Miss Swann knew that Ben would be waiting for her return, and she knew that he knew she wouldn't stray from their current mission, whatever that was. Once the caf was done, she took the liberty to pour the hot liquid into the cups, before she left with one and let the two others stay on the counter. She wouldn't be long.
As the young lady had ventured back to the docks with the cup of caf for the sailor despite the bone chilling wind surrounding her, she smiled kindly at him as she approached. "Here, the winds are maliciously cold today. Master Kenobi and I insist." She handed him the cup before she sat down next to him once again if only for a brief moment. "Regarding the story I told you of Nar Shaddaa. After I helped out in the gambling sector, the locals gave me this." Evelyn reached for her left pouch and swiftly fished up a small carved out figure, about hand size, made from a part of the horns of a Bantha. The figure itself representing a Krayt Dragon. The details remarkle as it was handmade. "A small souvenir from my adventures on Nar Shaddaa, the locals insisted and called it a luck charm. I've had it on me ever since." Evelyn decided as a faith of good will to pass this token on to the sailor. "See this as my way of gratitude to your kindness towards me, and a promise that no matter how difficult times may sometimes seem, the Force will always be with you and thus I will too."
With that said, Evy wanted to do one last gesture before their departing... Searching for one of her chips with a few thousand credits on, the lady wanted to offer him the chip for repairs of his raft, or for him to do something nice for himself. "Lastly, I want to give you this. If not, that is fine too, but honestly, I must speak my mind and say that I think you more than deserve it my friend. The final choice is yours of course. I don't want to force anything down your throat." Chuckling softly she waited patiently for the sailor's decision as she reached out her hand with the credit chip.
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Ben Kenobi
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Re: The Eocho Mountains
She left in a sprint and the old sailor nodded briefly. It had been nice to talk to someone, he had been up here in the mountains for who knew how long and it had been weeks if not months since his last encounter with a sentient being. He enjoyed the seclusion enough to keep the circumstances the same, but he cared for a conversation once in a while; that this conversation had come willingly and he hadn't needed to go to town or to a cantina to find it, it was refreshing.
The torch light of the lighter she'd given him flared and he relit his pipe again, they went out if not in constant use. The spice in the pipe puffed in a cloud of pleasing smoke that he breathed in. He started to relax as he tied off the ropes from the raft to the dock.
With his customary limp he hobbled up the cold muddy slope to his little hut though he did not sit down for as he arrived he also spotted Evelyn coming back from their Jedi ship. Reaching out his arm he leaned up against the shack. Amused was the word. Though this time she was approaching with a careful step; as she closed in he spotted a cup of caf in her hand and he gave a short laugh.
"Lass," he spoke and met her halfway, "you go to far." But he accepted the caf with a gracious look, "Thank you. This is a fine brew." He sipped from the steaming cup and it was fantastic.
Listening to her next gift's introduction he thought to turn it away. He didn't care for trinkets and bobbles. He didn't own any to begin with so why start now? But before he knew it he had accepted the token and was examining the workmanship that had gone into its creation with nothing less than thoughtful admiration. It like the caf was a fine gift and he accepted. "I already see this little thing works. It has brought Jedi to my home after so long. I think it will do nicely."
He held up a hand to stop her right there though when she began to offer credits. "I can't take your credits. I've no use for them and you've already done far too much. An eye for an eye but you offer two in the hand. I am grateful lass, but I must draw the line." He had kept his tone level and true, again he thanked Evelyn but this time he sent her on her way. "You'd best be going now lass, the Jedi don't come here without purpose and I wouldn't be comfortable with delaying a pair of Knights when they ought to be fighting the good fight." He smiled, and gave her his hand to shake, "Aubrey, Aubrey Lynn." He'd not given his name to anyone in ages. If he was never to see this young Jedi again then that was fine; though she should know she'd made a friend here today.
The torch light of the lighter she'd given him flared and he relit his pipe again, they went out if not in constant use. The spice in the pipe puffed in a cloud of pleasing smoke that he breathed in. He started to relax as he tied off the ropes from the raft to the dock.
With his customary limp he hobbled up the cold muddy slope to his little hut though he did not sit down for as he arrived he also spotted Evelyn coming back from their Jedi ship. Reaching out his arm he leaned up against the shack. Amused was the word. Though this time she was approaching with a careful step; as she closed in he spotted a cup of caf in her hand and he gave a short laugh.
"Lass," he spoke and met her halfway, "you go to far." But he accepted the caf with a gracious look, "Thank you. This is a fine brew." He sipped from the steaming cup and it was fantastic.
Listening to her next gift's introduction he thought to turn it away. He didn't care for trinkets and bobbles. He didn't own any to begin with so why start now? But before he knew it he had accepted the token and was examining the workmanship that had gone into its creation with nothing less than thoughtful admiration. It like the caf was a fine gift and he accepted. "I already see this little thing works. It has brought Jedi to my home after so long. I think it will do nicely."
He held up a hand to stop her right there though when she began to offer credits. "I can't take your credits. I've no use for them and you've already done far too much. An eye for an eye but you offer two in the hand. I am grateful lass, but I must draw the line." He had kept his tone level and true, again he thanked Evelyn but this time he sent her on her way. "You'd best be going now lass, the Jedi don't come here without purpose and I wouldn't be comfortable with delaying a pair of Knights when they ought to be fighting the good fight." He smiled, and gave her his hand to shake, "Aubrey, Aubrey Lynn." He'd not given his name to anyone in ages. If he was never to see this young Jedi again then that was fine; though she should know she'd made a friend here today.
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Evelyn Swann
- Registered Member
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- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 2:28 pm
- Location: Everywhere
Re: The Eocho Mountains
As Evelyn heard his comment to the token, she couldn't help but smile, as she thought she had done the right thing. This felt right and the Force had guided her to this very moment. She had helped bring back some joy and positivity in dark times to this man. That in itself was a reward she'd never be able to repay. The young brunette did have a feeling about the man declining her offer of credits however, but that was just whom she was. She wanted to give what she could and more if allowed to. But the man had boundaries when it came to credits, and she simply smiled with an understanding nod.
When he said his final words as a means to goodbye with mention of Jedi and his name as he shook her hand, Evelyn felt warm and content. The flow through the Force working its wonders here despite being in a freezing wind, it was something that had to be experienced. "It was nice to meet you Aubrey Lynn. I'm Evelyn Swann. Thank you so much for your hospitality. Maybe our paths will meet again someday my friend. You take care now." Returning a genuine smile, Evy did hope that their paths would cross again one day.
Taking a few steps backwards she put the credit chip back in her pouch before starting a small jog down the muddy slope and back to the Talon. Once there, Miss Swann walked up the ramp once more, pushing the button to close it behind her before she ventured her way back to the galley to find Master Kenobi still meditating. Grabbing her cup of caf, she took a sip and savoured the taste and warmth while contemplating on what she had seen in the bunker. "Thank you for the caf Master. Aubrey was thankful for a cup as well. But to get back to the mission ahead, I have searched and looked. The only thing I could get a proper understanding of, was that there were mountains, singing mountains echoing through the Force to me... Does that mean anything to you?"
When he said his final words as a means to goodbye with mention of Jedi and his name as he shook her hand, Evelyn felt warm and content. The flow through the Force working its wonders here despite being in a freezing wind, it was something that had to be experienced. "It was nice to meet you Aubrey Lynn. I'm Evelyn Swann. Thank you so much for your hospitality. Maybe our paths will meet again someday my friend. You take care now." Returning a genuine smile, Evy did hope that their paths would cross again one day.
Taking a few steps backwards she put the credit chip back in her pouch before starting a small jog down the muddy slope and back to the Talon. Once there, Miss Swann walked up the ramp once more, pushing the button to close it behind her before she ventured her way back to the galley to find Master Kenobi still meditating. Grabbing her cup of caf, she took a sip and savoured the taste and warmth while contemplating on what she had seen in the bunker. "Thank you for the caf Master. Aubrey was thankful for a cup as well. But to get back to the mission ahead, I have searched and looked. The only thing I could get a proper understanding of, was that there were mountains, singing mountains echoing through the Force to me... Does that mean anything to you?"
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Ben Kenobi
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Re: The Eocho Mountains
His meditations in the beginning were a bleak set of potential premonition but they soon eased and his mind was clear to see the beauty of Ossus and the mountain range they sat in. His concentration soothed his worries and the aches in his body from the chill air they'd found themselves in. Additionally the proximity of his staff, more specifically the crystal inside, it brought his mind to a point where he could anchor himself. He breathed easy in this moment and felt fully at ease.
Eventually Evelyn returned to the 'Talon' and her presence washed over the ship like a fresh cloud. Ben smiled but did not open his eye, he needed to remain focused on the task at hand. She went on about the situation and still he didn't move, eventually though he did once she asked her question.
His move was nothing more than his forearm rising from his lap and lifting a finger to his mouth. He had signaled her to be quiet. His hand resumed its place to his knee and he waited until she joined him there on the galley floor and from there he spoke nearly in a whisper in effort not to break his absolute concentration. "The wind may sing through the mountain peaks." His eyes still closed, he smiled, "Let's find where we need to go, together."
"Quiet your mind and listen. Join me as we search the mountain range. Let the Force guide us." Together the two listened to the Light and together when they opened their eyes at the same time they knew that they'd found where they needed to go.
Through the Force the Light took them through the mountainous range of the Eocho, vast and powerful, to have searched these mountains for their goal would have taken months if not years or even never. But through the Lightside of the Force the Jedi could hear the call. Ben's eyes finally opened and he looked at Evelyn.
"Hope you have your hiking boots on."
Eventually Evelyn returned to the 'Talon' and her presence washed over the ship like a fresh cloud. Ben smiled but did not open his eye, he needed to remain focused on the task at hand. She went on about the situation and still he didn't move, eventually though he did once she asked her question.
His move was nothing more than his forearm rising from his lap and lifting a finger to his mouth. He had signaled her to be quiet. His hand resumed its place to his knee and he waited until she joined him there on the galley floor and from there he spoke nearly in a whisper in effort not to break his absolute concentration. "The wind may sing through the mountain peaks." His eyes still closed, he smiled, "Let's find where we need to go, together."
"Quiet your mind and listen. Join me as we search the mountain range. Let the Force guide us." Together the two listened to the Light and together when they opened their eyes at the same time they knew that they'd found where they needed to go.
Through the Force the Light took them through the mountainous range of the Eocho, vast and powerful, to have searched these mountains for their goal would have taken months if not years or even never. But through the Lightside of the Force the Jedi could hear the call. Ben's eyes finally opened and he looked at Evelyn.
"Hope you have your hiking boots on."
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Evelyn Swann
- Registered Member
- Posts: 116
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 2:28 pm
- Location: Everywhere
Re: The Eocho Mountains
As she had made her inquiry, the young lady watched her Master gesture for her to be quiet, and she merely nodded before placing the cup of caf back on the counter. Placing herself on the floor as well in a meditation position, Evy took a deep breath before she relaxed her muscles and closed her eyes, listening to Master Kenobi's whispers. Smiling as well, she gave a slight nod as she calmed her mind. Letting go of all trail of thought, all worries, all back ground noises, and just focused on her breathing. Once relaxed, Evelyn opened her mind to the Light Side of the Force, inviting it to embrace her and help her on this journey. The subtle sound of echoes through the ripples and strings of the Force, made the hairs on her skin rise, sending a warm yet chilling shiver down her spine. Reaching out further, Miss Swann wanted to go deeper into the strings of the Force, leading her through the snowy and rocky plains, to the steep thick snowy mountains. The snow gleaming and glittering in the sun like crystals.
Like they had done back on Kashyyyk, Evy shared the same feeling through the Force as Ben did, and it helped her to better understand the situation. The Light Side was beckoning them through the mountain pass of the Eocho Mountains. She had vaguely read about those mountains back on Permafrost, but their real and true history regarding the Jedi Order itself was still quite the mystery.
Then as if a cold refreshing wave of wind washed over her like a tsunami, there was a small alcove hidden and surrounded in deep snow on one of the mountain peeks. Inside the icy cave was their next objective and she exhaled after a long deep breath. Her hazel orbs flew open and Ben's comment made her chuckle softly. "Ever since my stay on Permafrost Master, it's been a necessity to wear leather boots that fit with the terrain. Let me go pack the things I need for the hike. I will be ready in five." Swiftly the lady rose from her meditaion position to jog to her quarters aboard the Talon. And as she had said, five minutes after she had gone she returned ready with her backpack. She knew from the meditation with Kenobi that this trip would not be a one day hike, but rather a couple of days.
Now her resolve would truly be tested with her knowledge gathering and practise on Permafrost. It was time for her to show her growth and understanding thus far about the Force and the meaning of true constitution. She felt ready. Her mind was ready. She felt at peace, and this path was really the right one for her, she knew that now. "Shall we get going? We are losing daylight." Her voice gentle and curious.
----------------
As the hours passed by, the freezing wind almost gnawed into the young brunette's bones as they went higher up. It wasn't because she didn't wear warm enough clothing, she did. It was the mountain winds and their hefty pushing that was the problem. Thankfully where they walked the snow was deep enough for them to stand their ground and continue upward towards their destination that still was a good two and a half day hiking from their current position.
Taking notes on the Ossus wildlife, Evelyn thought the creatures were stunningly beautiful. She also knew however that they were deadly if one came too close for comfort, so they left the creatures alone and they left them alone. So far so good. A large rock formation further ahead with a thick hat of flora and vegetation draping from the top, stood tall and proud as Evelyn and Ben hiked up and up. Behind it was a small crystal clear pond with some fish and reed plants framing it perfectly in its place.
Once the hours grew closer to the evening, Ben and Evy made camp in a small secluded area near their first path to the mountain peak. A campfire was made as well as supper. Then a good few hours of meditation focusing on the Light Side of the Force to strengthen her bond and connection to the Force itself. Making a fresh pot of caf, Evy spoke with Ben more about her past. Now she finally had the time to explain more and how she had come to terms with her inner demons. Smiling and feeling at peace after a long casual talk back and forth, the young lady excused herself for the night and went to sleep.
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The morning suns began to shed their light high up on the mountain peaks of the Eocho Mountains, the warm comforting beams waking up the wildlife and giving new breath to the vegetation there. Evy was woken up to the smell of a new pot of caf getting brewed, and she took the liberty to make them some breakfast before they were to venture onwards up the deceitful peaks.
Hiking up and further up, Evelyn allowed herself to be guided not only by her Master, but by the Force as well. The heartbeat of the Light Side was shining bright as a beacon to Miss Swann and she followed its call.
Through that day, they had only made two stops on the path to catch their breaths and let their bodies get a small break. Evelyn was tired. Hiking up the peaks of the Eocho Mountains was no easy task, but she was also stubborn and wouldn't give up. She knew she could do it, she just had to keep up her hope and inner strength. Muscles were sore and her legs felt as if they were made of stone. It had been a few years since her last hike and she could tell from her body's reaction that she had gotten out of shape compared to her agility a few years back. Continuing on, they did not stop until nightfall, making camp again for the night in an abandoned small cave near their path.
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As a new day came to life, Evelyn knew they were getting close to their destination. Only about a half day of hiking and they should arrive. The terrain shifting between snow, muddy slopes and nice green grassplains up the mountain peaks, she was amazed at how the fauna on this planet was so intertwined with one and another.
Then she felt it. Through the Force soft whispering echoes calling for her further up the peak. Determined now to get there more than ever, Evelyn started to walk with more speed, as if her body had been granted an energy boost of sorts. There was something close by that she was meant to see. Her path changing right underneath her dark brown leather boots. The grass area mixed together with fine crystals of snow. Though the further up she walked, the thicker the snow started to get. It was almost a tundra vegetation up here, the air getting cooler and thinner by the minute as her breath was leaving a hot mist for every time she exhaled. It was quiet up here, only the wind and the soft crunching of the snow beneath her and Ben's boots could be heard.
Suddenly something invisible almost gave a slight pull in her left arm, causing the young lady to look to her left further out in the horizon. Squinting her eyes she could make the shape of the alcove entrance they were supposed to get to. "Here. This way. We are almost there. I can see it Master." Picking up the pace now, Evy continued her hike with Ben a little further until they had reached the alcove entrance. It was filled with structures carved out of the ice within the Eocho Mountains themselves. The craftmanship that had gone into these monuments were extraordinary to say the least.
Tired and exhausted, Evelyn tried to catch her breath as she rested her hands upon her knees. "So, we made it. What do we do from here Master Kenobi?"
Like they had done back on Kashyyyk, Evy shared the same feeling through the Force as Ben did, and it helped her to better understand the situation. The Light Side was beckoning them through the mountain pass of the Eocho Mountains. She had vaguely read about those mountains back on Permafrost, but their real and true history regarding the Jedi Order itself was still quite the mystery.
Then as if a cold refreshing wave of wind washed over her like a tsunami, there was a small alcove hidden and surrounded in deep snow on one of the mountain peeks. Inside the icy cave was their next objective and she exhaled after a long deep breath. Her hazel orbs flew open and Ben's comment made her chuckle softly. "Ever since my stay on Permafrost Master, it's been a necessity to wear leather boots that fit with the terrain. Let me go pack the things I need for the hike. I will be ready in five." Swiftly the lady rose from her meditaion position to jog to her quarters aboard the Talon. And as she had said, five minutes after she had gone she returned ready with her backpack. She knew from the meditation with Kenobi that this trip would not be a one day hike, but rather a couple of days.
Now her resolve would truly be tested with her knowledge gathering and practise on Permafrost. It was time for her to show her growth and understanding thus far about the Force and the meaning of true constitution. She felt ready. Her mind was ready. She felt at peace, and this path was really the right one for her, she knew that now. "Shall we get going? We are losing daylight." Her voice gentle and curious.
----------------
As the hours passed by, the freezing wind almost gnawed into the young brunette's bones as they went higher up. It wasn't because she didn't wear warm enough clothing, she did. It was the mountain winds and their hefty pushing that was the problem. Thankfully where they walked the snow was deep enough for them to stand their ground and continue upward towards their destination that still was a good two and a half day hiking from their current position.
Taking notes on the Ossus wildlife, Evelyn thought the creatures were stunningly beautiful. She also knew however that they were deadly if one came too close for comfort, so they left the creatures alone and they left them alone. So far so good. A large rock formation further ahead with a thick hat of flora and vegetation draping from the top, stood tall and proud as Evelyn and Ben hiked up and up. Behind it was a small crystal clear pond with some fish and reed plants framing it perfectly in its place.
Once the hours grew closer to the evening, Ben and Evy made camp in a small secluded area near their first path to the mountain peak. A campfire was made as well as supper. Then a good few hours of meditation focusing on the Light Side of the Force to strengthen her bond and connection to the Force itself. Making a fresh pot of caf, Evy spoke with Ben more about her past. Now she finally had the time to explain more and how she had come to terms with her inner demons. Smiling and feeling at peace after a long casual talk back and forth, the young lady excused herself for the night and went to sleep.
----------------
The morning suns began to shed their light high up on the mountain peaks of the Eocho Mountains, the warm comforting beams waking up the wildlife and giving new breath to the vegetation there. Evy was woken up to the smell of a new pot of caf getting brewed, and she took the liberty to make them some breakfast before they were to venture onwards up the deceitful peaks.
Hiking up and further up, Evelyn allowed herself to be guided not only by her Master, but by the Force as well. The heartbeat of the Light Side was shining bright as a beacon to Miss Swann and she followed its call.
Through that day, they had only made two stops on the path to catch their breaths and let their bodies get a small break. Evelyn was tired. Hiking up the peaks of the Eocho Mountains was no easy task, but she was also stubborn and wouldn't give up. She knew she could do it, she just had to keep up her hope and inner strength. Muscles were sore and her legs felt as if they were made of stone. It had been a few years since her last hike and she could tell from her body's reaction that she had gotten out of shape compared to her agility a few years back. Continuing on, they did not stop until nightfall, making camp again for the night in an abandoned small cave near their path.
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As a new day came to life, Evelyn knew they were getting close to their destination. Only about a half day of hiking and they should arrive. The terrain shifting between snow, muddy slopes and nice green grassplains up the mountain peaks, she was amazed at how the fauna on this planet was so intertwined with one and another.
Then she felt it. Through the Force soft whispering echoes calling for her further up the peak. Determined now to get there more than ever, Evelyn started to walk with more speed, as if her body had been granted an energy boost of sorts. There was something close by that she was meant to see. Her path changing right underneath her dark brown leather boots. The grass area mixed together with fine crystals of snow. Though the further up she walked, the thicker the snow started to get. It was almost a tundra vegetation up here, the air getting cooler and thinner by the minute as her breath was leaving a hot mist for every time she exhaled. It was quiet up here, only the wind and the soft crunching of the snow beneath her and Ben's boots could be heard.
Suddenly something invisible almost gave a slight pull in her left arm, causing the young lady to look to her left further out in the horizon. Squinting her eyes she could make the shape of the alcove entrance they were supposed to get to. "Here. This way. We are almost there. I can see it Master." Picking up the pace now, Evy continued her hike with Ben a little further until they had reached the alcove entrance. It was filled with structures carved out of the ice within the Eocho Mountains themselves. The craftmanship that had gone into these monuments were extraordinary to say the least.
Tired and exhausted, Evelyn tried to catch her breath as she rested her hands upon her knees. "So, we made it. What do we do from here Master Kenobi?"