Kopesch had taken some time to recover from his injuries.
He spent his recovery time on lightsaber katas.
Sera watched quietly from the back of the practice room. She studied his form and watched for his weak points.
She spent every moment studying him.
Despite her presence he ignored her. She never hid from him.
After a week he finally spoke. “You’re weak, you know.”
He continued his practice as he spoke. “You have never spoken out against me. You have to be strong to be a Jedi.”
His blade swept close to Sera’s face. When she didn’t flinch, Sera could see the recognition in his eyes. He could feel her defiance. He could also feel his own burning anger grow. She was becoming something he felt he never could. She was proving him wrong, and he hated her for it.
“Twi’lek women are all weak. That’s why you are all slaves or prostitutes.”
Sera stood and glared at him. His anger was feeding hers. She could feel the Dark Side taking control of both of them. It was directing her to strike him down. She refused to let herself succumb to its power.
“You killed him.” Sera’s eyes burned into his soul.
“You killed him because of your arrogance.”
She could see the rage building in his face.
“You killed him because you couldn’t handle your own failure. You believe the Order is infallible. You believe you are infallible. You believe no decision you make can be questioned. You believe no plan you make can fail. If it fails it is someone else’s fault.” She walked forward as she spoke. She had him on his back foot.
The blood was rushing to his face as she spoke.
“The Jedi have failed. We have failed over and over. The archives are full of failures. They are recorded so we don’t make those mistakes again. The Code teaches us to learn from those failures. The Jedi Order is not now, nor was it ever infallible.
“It wasn’t the code that taught you that you are infallible, it was your own arrogance.”
Sera could see him losing control. She felt the fear rising in herself, but pushed it down. Her words were measured and controlled. Each of them spearing him in the chest.
“You can kill me. But you will never be anything more than an arrogant coward who has never earned the right to be a master. No matter what the council has decided.”
Kopesch lunged at Sera and brought his lightsaber down.
She underestimated his speed in that second and he barely missed her head. But her right arm came away from her shoulder.
“You insignificant whore.” he yelled. “How dare you judge me.”
Even with her injury she was aware of his next move. She could read his thoughts. She knew where his next swing was going to come from. She sidestepped his swings several times..
“You have failed as a teacher.” Sera continued. Her anger numbed the searing pain.
“You are a failed Jedi.” She spit the words like acid.
That moment of anger clouded her mind just enough for Kopesch to land a second blow and her left arm came away.
“You don’t know anything. You are weak and I am strong.” He screamed.
Sera collapsed to her knees and looked around. Her left arm touched her leg. Her right was a meter away.
The pain made Kopesch’s words unintelligible. She smiled as she collapsed to the ground.
She could see his panic as he paced back and forth near her.
Her consciousness came and went as she fought to stay alive. She wasn’t going to give Kopesch the satisfaction of killing her. Though, for a moment she thought her death might bring justice.
He stood over her unmoving form mumbling to himself, unintelligibly.
He took one of Sera’s lightsabers and put it in the hand lying on the floor next to her. Even if she had the strength to stop him she didn't have a way.
After a few precious minutes of internal debate he called for the medical personnel.
She forced herself to roll on to her back so she had a better view of the scene as it played out.
She saw the medical personnel enter the room in confusion.
“Master Jedi, what happened here?” The Devaronian medic asked.
One of the clone medics rushed to her side with a medical droid.
“We were sparring and she failed to parry a swing. It all happened so fast.” Sera could feel that he was using the force behind his words.
“That doesn’t make any sense.” The medic countered. “How did you manage to cut off both of her arms?”
“I couldn’t stop the follow through.” His voice sounded desperate when he realized that his mind trick didn’t work on the woman before him.
“If you don’t do something soon she’ll die.” He raised his voice. “Then it will be your fault.”
The Devaronian medic realized talking to him was a waste of her time and broke off the conversation. She tapped out a note on the datapad in her hand and went to help the clone stabilize and evacuate Sera.
“Everything is going to be okay Sera. Delta and I are going to do everything we can to save you.” She spoke as she felt for other injuries.
The clone, Delta, applied Bacta patches to the remains of her arms to stave off infection and help healing.
Sera watched Kopesch pace a little more then leave the room quietly.
Sera used the last of her strength to speak loud enough for everyone to hear. “Still a coward and a liar. You are unable to admit what you’ve done. You are not worthy to hold the title of Jedi.”
She raised her head and spoke just loud enough for Delta to hear her. “No cybernetics. Not yet.”
The next time she was aware of the world she found herself floating in a warm viscous fluid. The breathing apparatus was uncomfortable and she wanted to remove the eye covers.
She reached out through the bacta tank to find the beings around her.
She could feel a technician panic slightly when they realized her vitals had changed. A second presence seemed to have a calming effect on the first person. Likely explaining that she had awakened.
Sera wished she could see herself. She knew she was badly injured but she wanted to know how significant her injuries were.
Like her instructors had taught her she calmed her mind and let go of her physical form. Her mind caught the eddies of the force and drifted from her body.
She could see her red form floating in a tank. Her Lekku were suspended behind her neck and she wore a large breathing apparatus with multiple hoses and wires rising to the top of the tank.
She had dared hope that at least one of her arms had been saved. But it was clear they weren’t able to. Her shoulders were symmetric and ended where her arms should have been.
She sighed to herself and brought her awareness back into her body.
She found herself drifting back into unconsciousness. She assumed that someone was feeding a sedative into the breathing tube. She let herself slip back into the darkness.
Sera’s eyes fluttered open. It had seemed only an instant ago that she had been in the bacta tank.
She felt some pressure on her shoulders and looked down. The sleeves of the gown she was wearing lay flat against the mattress.
A nurse stood over her and recorded her vitals.
“Yes dear, they are gone.” The matronly woman spoke warmly. “Somehow you don’t seem surprised.” She looked Sera over and clucked her tongue.
“You caused quite a stir, young lady.” Another voice came from outside of Sera’s view.
“Can you help me sit up?” Sera asked the nurse.
With a little effort Sera was sitting upright in the bed. She looked at the speaker. She was a Bothan Jedi. Sera recognized her from a class on the biology of the various humanoid species.
“Yes Master Callystol. I imagine I have.” Sera showed no sign of emotion in her response.
“In a few days we will get you fitted with cybernetic replacements. You told the medic you didn’t want them so we delayed the fitting.” There was a little confusion in her voice.
“Master, I am not ready for them. I need to learn to function without them.
“Why do you say that?” Master Callystol was curious but she was also testing Sera.
“I can’t explain it, but I feel that it will bring me closer to the Force. It’s almost like the Force is telling me to learn to live without them first.” There was doubt, but also conviction behind Sera’s words. She didn’t expect Master Callystol to understand or agree to it, but she needed to make her position clear.
Master Callystol touched her hand to her face in thought for a moment. “I will speak with a couple of other teachers and we will see what we can do. But I can’t, in good conscience, deny your request.” She smiled.
“Master Immit has been assigned to investigate the incident in the practice room between you and your master.” She folded her arms.
“I haven’t seen the recording, but by the sounds of it you made some significant accusations. Those accusations will complicate matters.”
“Master, I would not have said those things if I did not mean them.” Sera’s voice was level and steady.
“I have no doubt that you meant every word. And I trust Master Immit to suss out the truth.
“My only advice is to be absolutely honest with him. He has a knack for finding the truth even without using the Force.”
“Now, I’m going to leave you alone. If you need anything a nurse will help you.”
“You could be expelled from the order for what you did in that room, Padawan.” Master Immit and Sera sat in the half lotus position on circular chairs facing each other.
Both wore the standard Jedi uniform. Sera’s had been modified somewhat. She wore a pair of flats that were easy for her to take off. She also wore a red leather head band that covered the base of her lekku.
“I stand by my words and actions. I will accept the consequences.” Sera responded.
“I would expect nothing less from a Jedi.” There was a bit of satisfaction in Master Immit’s voice.
“You seem to be recovering well.” He scratched his bear as his brown eyes fell on her empty sleeves.
Master Immit had a well-kept gray beard and curly dark brown hair that was cut close. It was a very similar color to his skin tone.
“Yes Master, It has been a challenge to relearn how to do many tasks. But I feel like it has given me a better understanding of the Force and how we interact with it.” Sera’s nervousness was subsiding.
“Very admirable. Perhaps when this is all over you can pass your insights on to new generations of younglings. I very much encourage you to record your progress.” Master Immit’s smile was charming. “We all have much to learn, and discounting the ideas and musings of those who we teach is anathema to the Jedi Code.”
Master Immit’s words comforted Sera. She felt that he was listening to her and that she might see justice.
“You understand why I am here?” His demeanor stayed the same as he changed the subject.
“You are here to investigate my actions and words against Jedi Master Kopesch.” Sera answered.
“Not quite.” Master Immit gave Sera that same comforting smile. “Training accidents happen, especially with lightsabers. More than a few Jedi have lost a hand to a lightsaber that has failed while sparring, or a miscalculated parry. But this,” He indicted her sleeves. “Is unprecedented.”
“The attending medic was concerned and requested an investigation.” He paused for a moment to let Sera digest his words.
Sera sat quietly taking in what Master Immit was telling her.
“What Master Kopesch did was inexcusable. The things he said were monstrous and in different times and circumstances would have caused him to face severe consequences.” Master Immit paused to search for words.
“But I cannot overlook your involvement. You made some serious accusations in that room.” Master Immit’s demeanor was more serious when he spoke. “You accused your mentor of killing another Jedi Master out of arrogance.” Sera could tell he was perplexed. He would repeatedly touch his beard while he spoke. “If it’s true then he has not only committed treason he has betrayed his oath and the order itself.” He looked directly into Sera’s purple eyes. “Are these charges true? Can you prove them?”
Sera straightened her back as much as she could and locked eyes with Master Immit. “Master, I can only provide evidence that validates my accusations. If you are looking for definitive proof the only way you will find it is to interrogate Jedi Master Kopesch and Master Plais. Master Plais is dead and Jedi Master Kopesch has already shown himself to be a liar.”
Master Immit scratched his beard and looked at Sera with a bit of apprehension.
“Are you speaking of what he told the medic?” He tried to reason out why she would have called Kopesch a liar.
“Yes master.” Sera nodded.
Master Immit sighed. “You don’t seem to hold your master in very high regard. That may work against you in any decisions the Council makes.”
“I apologize Master.” Sera cleared her throat.
“I would like you to take some time to clear your mind. I know it will be difficult but I understand that you are still harboring anger towards your master. Though, I must say, your restraint has been exemplary.”
Master Immit stood and patted Sera on the shoulder. At the same time he reached out with the Force to see what emotions she felt when he did it. To his surprise she didn’t seem to be affected.
Sera sat in the cafeteria. The AZ unit that was assigned to help her set her tray on the table. “Thank you AZ-254.”
A Pantoran woman not much older than Sera brought her tray and sat down across from Sera. She reached out a hand to shake then pulled it back, embarrassed. “Sorry.”
Sera miled. “Don’t be. It’s something we all do out of habit. I even try to reach out my hand.” Her voice was comforting.
“I’m Imram Shatergee. My friends call me Ima.” She looked down at the table.
“All of the Padawans know who you are. We know what happened.” Ima started eating her food. All of the while watching Sera eat.
“You don’t mind if I sit here do you?” Ima was suddenly self-conscious.
“Not at all.” Sera looked up. “It’s nice to have company.”
“We all look up to you, you know.” Ima said between bites.
“I’m a padawan just like you.” Sera responded.
Ima looked back down and poked at the vegetables on her tray.
“I admire your strength.” Ima said quietly. “I don’t know if I could adapt as easily as you have.”
Sera leaned close to Ima. “Do you trust the Living Force?”
Ima looked into Sera’s eyes. “Yes.” She didn’t have a lot of confidence in her answer.
“The Force has been the most important tool in my recovery and ability to adapt.” Sera let the words set in with Ima.
There was a long pause. Sera watched the realization fill Ima’s mind. “It helps me to focus on finding solutions for challenges I didn’t face before.”
Sera went back to eating. Ima watched and ate her own food.
After Sera finished her food she called for AZ-254 to help her return the tray.
“Sera. Can I be your helper? Until I receive my promotion?”
The droid hovered near Sera’s right shoulder.
“Ima. I know you’ve heard the rumors about what happened in the training room. But there is more to it. You have to know that doing this could put your promotion and even Jedi status at risk.” Sera’s expression was serious. “I want you to know that I would welcome you as my helper. But that is a decision that you have to make. If you decide to, I will talk to Master Callystol. I’m sure she won’t mind.” Sera smiled.
She liked Ima, and hoped she would say yes.
“My feelings tell me that it is important that I do this, no matter what the consequences.” Ima looked into Sera’s eyes.
“This is most unusual.” Master Callystol mused. “But so is the whole situation.”
The Bothan thought for a moment. “AZ-254 thank you for your assistance. Padawan Wes has a new caretaker.”
“Thank you for your help AZ-254. You have been a great companion.” Sera told the droid.
“It has been an honor to serve you Sera.” The droid responded then went to find a new task.
Sera stood in a large room with several practice drones hovering around her.
Master Bellis stood with her hands behind her back, watching Sera.
Sera tried to weave and dodge between the energy bolts they fired. She dodged many of them but she was hit by several.
Master Bellis could see her frustration. “Let me ask you something. “Are you focused on how you do things without arms? Are you trying to adjust your movements?”
“Yes master.” Sera shifted nervously.
“It is important that you understand that your body has changed. But it’s more important to trust in the Force. Reach out to it the same you always have.”
Sera took a deep breath and let her mind drift with the energy that ebbed and flowed around her. She saw the drones as small anomalies stirring up the flow. The drones started darting around her. The first one fired and hit her. She reacted but put it behind her.
Then she felt her right lek twitch. She turned in that direction and side stepped the small bolt of energy. She found her lekku were acting to tell her where the next bolt would come from.
For several seconds she avoided the bolts flawlessly. Then she tried to flip, forgetting that she wasn’t going to be able to catch herself with her hands, she fell hard.
She cursed herself.
Master Bellis helped her up and made sure she was okay. “You did quite well.”
“I’m okay master. I was so caught up in the moment that I forgot about not having arms.” Sera explained then laughed.
“Do you need a break?” The blue Twi’lek asked.
“I think I’ve got it. One more go.” Sera responded.
Sera took the half lotus position on a cushion across from the Ithorian Jedi Master, Lycon. Ima sat nearby.
“Hmmm. Using a foot stamp to focus a push. Where did you get this idea?” Master Lycon projected their words directly into Sera’s mind.
“We were taught to use our upper appendages as a focus, but now that I have none it presented me more of a challenge. At first I thought I could learn to do it by just focusing my thoughts, like you taught us. I can, but it takes as much concentration as it took when we first learned, using our upper appendages.
“Then it occurred to me that the Force doesn’t care what form we take or what appendages we have, or use.” Sera was excited to share her new found insight.
“So I wondered what if I could use my feet instead.” Sera tried to constrain her eagerness as master Lycon listened politely.
“I remembered you taught us about Master Berinn. Because she was born with no arms she learned to do things differently.
“So I studied her writings.” Sera watched the Master. “And she did use her feet to focus.”
“Very Clever Padawan. But remember that Master Berinn was a very talented researcher and her writings are indeed insightful. But she never tested her ideas outside of the Temple that we know of. It is important to temper your excitement over this with caution.”
“I understand Master. Thank you.” Sera bowed her head.
“I remember when you first came to learn from me. You struggled with focusing your push.” Master Lycon’s thoughts conveyed a fondness and passion for teaching those who need extra help.
“And when you were finally able to, you could not control it very well.” Sera felt encouragement along with their words. “It is good to see that you have been able to gain more control.”
“Perhaps this was meant to be.” Master Lycon unfolded their hands from inside their sleeves and indicated Sera’s folded, empty sleeves.
“Tell me something, Padawan. Do you resent the loss of your arms?” Master Lycon’s thoughts conveyed the potential of a lesson depending on Sera’s answer.
“I was taught not to hold onto resentment towards those who have injured me.” Sera sounded like she was reciting some quote from a textbook.
Sera could feel the humor they found in her words. “That is not the question I asked you, Padawan.”
Sera thought for a moment. “Master, may I share my thoughts and feelings towards it with you?”
“I would most definitely welcome it.
“But first you must understand that I am in communication with Master Immit regarding your case and if I am approached regarding our encounters and communications I will provide him everything you have shared with me regarding the incident.”
“I understand Master. I have nothing to hide.” Sera straightened her back as tall as she could and opened her mind to the Force and Master Lycon.
“Master, I feel no resentment for Jedi Master Kopesch cutting off my arms.” Sera’s words were accompanied by a sense of awakening. Master Lycon could tell that Sera had been brought closer to the Force.
“I sense your fear of Master Kopesch. But it is not for Master Kopesch but what he has done to you.
“You tell me that you do not resent him for your injuries and your deeper feelings seem to reinforce that. I cannot get a picture of what you fear from him. Do you fear him killing you?”
“Master, have you ever faced the Dark Side?” Sera’s thoughts were laced with hope that Master Lycon had and conquered their own fear and fear that they would judge Sera for allowing the dark Side into her mind.
“I see.” Master Lycon mused. “You fear that Master Kopesch will cause you to turn to the Dark Side.”
“Yes Master.” Sera spoke the words out loud.
“Your concerns are definitely valid.” master Lycon’s words came with equal measure of comfort and concern.
“To answer your questions, yes.
“The Dark Side is as much a part of the Force as the Light Side. Fear of it has led many Jedi to be consumed by it.
“The fact that you recognized its pull is encouraging. But you must shape your fear into something stronger.” Master Lycon’s words were filled with hope.
“Now please show me this technique you have developed for yourself again. Maybe it will help those who come later.” Master Lycon rose from their cushion and directed Sera towards the training floor.
“I must say Padawan Wes, that you have impressed Master Callystol, Master Lycon and Master Bellis.” Master Immit gestured for Sera to sit near him.
“You seem to have found yourself a devoted helper as well.” He mentioned towards Ima, who was sitting out of earshot.
She assumed the half lotus position and watched Master Immit for any sign of his intent.
“When I talked to Master Lycon they expressed some concern.” Master Immit’s voice was comforting.
“We all face the temptation of the Dark Side. Master Lycon mentioned that you felt the pull of the Dark Side as you confronted your master.” He folded his hands inside his sleeves in front of him.
“Yes Master. I could feel it feeding my anger. I could feel it emboldening me. It made me stronger and it allowed me to turn my fear against him.” Master Immit noted Sera’s calm confidence. She didn’t seem to fear what he might do.
“I could feel his anger fueling mine. I could feel the Dark Side coming from him. I could feel my anger, my Dark Side energy feeding his.”
Sera lowered her head in shame. “I wanted to kill him. The Dark Side told me to kill him.”
“Would you like something to drink Padawan Wes?” The master stood and poured himself a glass of water.
“Thank you master.” Sera responded.
He poured the water into a mug and held it out for Sera. She slipped off her right shoe and took the handle between her toes and steadied it with her foot.
Master Immit returned to his seat and watched her take a few sips. “You’ve become quite proficient.” Master Immit laughed at himself. “To be honest I expected you to use your abilities with the Force to take the cup.”
Sera looked at him with a bit of confusion.
Master Immit laughed again. “Very few of us use our abilities to accomplish simple tasks. I had to re-examine my assumptions. We often scold our charges for relying too much on the Force for many small things. We worry that they will take their abilities and their connection with it for granted.
“Of course there are very few Jedi who would fault you for it. But here you are, showing us the way. Perhaps Master Lycon was right. It was the will of the Force.” Master Immit sipped his drink.
He straightened himself up and found his center. “Now, back to our original conversation.
“You mentioned that you could feel the Dark Side from Master Kopesch?”
“Yes Master.” Sera responded. “It felt like he was being driven by it. The same way I felt it trying to control me.” Sera thought for a moment. “The way I let it control me.”
Master Immit took Sera’s cup and set it on the tray. “Thank you for your time. I will conduct a formal recorded interview. I ask that you speak the truth no matter what you think may happen. Lying to anyone can have far worse consequences.
“The next meeting will be more official. I will be taking your deposition. It will be recorded and viewed by the counsel. You will be answering some questions I have already asked and several I have not. Please, whatever you do, tell the truth. They will know if you are not.”
Sera glanced nervously at the camera droid hovering between the two seats.
Master Immit motioned for Sera to have a seat.
Both Master Immit and Sera sat half lotus style on the round chairs. “I am Master Immit and this the investigation on the incident in the training Room involving the serious injury of Padawan Sera Wes and Jedi Master Kopesch.” As he spoke a light on the droid shined on him.
“This is Padawan Sera Wes.” He held out his hand towards Sera.
“Padawan Wes, tell me what happened in the training room on the day of the incident.” Master Immit’s voice was easygoing and comforted Sera.
She spent a few uninterrupted minutes relaying the story.
“Based on the security footage you were watching your master practice his katas. Was that something you would normally do?”
“Yes master. Jedi Master Kopesch refused to provide any guidance or training so I took it upon myself to watch him and learn.” Sera’s face was expressionless.
“Why would your master refuse to teach you? Do you think, Padawan Wes?” He already knew the answer but he needed to ask the questions formally. He had heard all of the recordings of Kopesch verbally abusing her.
“Jedi Master Kopesch believes that Twi’lek women are weak minded and not fit to be Jedi. It is stated clearly just prior to the incident.” Sera did her best to hide her annoyance. She knew that what she was doing was a formality, and that helped.
“Padawan Wes, why did you confront your master by accusing him of murder?” Master Immit hadn’t asked that question. But Sera was unfazed.
“Jedi Master Kopesch made me angry.” The answer didn’t surprise Master Immit, but he still reacted slightly.
“When Jedi Master Kopesch did interact with me it was always to denigrate me. That was the second time he threatened me with his lightsaber. You can see it both in my cabin aboard the Aggressor and again in the practice hall.” She paused for a second. “In a moment of anger I let go of my fear and, unfortunately, let my anger guide me.” Sera stood firm despite the very slight look of disapproval from Master Immit. “I let the Dark Side control my actions. I felt the Dark Side energy coming from him trying to feed mine. Once I understood what was happening it overcame the desire to strike down Jedi Master Kopesch. But it was too late for me to defuse the situation.
“I may have let anger get the best of me but I stand by every word I said.” Sera’s conscience was clear. “I will accept the decision of the council, no matter what it might be.” Though she was worried she drew on the stoicism she had been taught.
“You stated that Master Kopesch should never have been prompted to the rank of Master. I have never heard you refer to him as ‘Master Kopesch’. Do you believe the council made a mistake?”
The questions caught Sera off guard. She checked that her back was straight and she cleared her throat. “I do not believe that the council made a mistake. I believe that they did not have all of the information.
“The order is not infallible. We are taught to make the best decisions with the information we have available.” Sera’s stomach churned with unease as she told Master Immit, and the council, what she believed. “I respect the title that was inferred upon Jedi Master Kopesch. I do not believe he should have been given that honor.”
“Why did you accuse Master Kopesch of killing Master Plais?” Master Immit asked.
“Jedi master Kopesch murdered Master Plais during the battle of Calint. I have submitted the recordings from his comlink and my statements and observations.
“After several failures and unacceptable losses Commander Pike contacted Republic forces and requested assistance. Jedi Master Kopesch continued to use the same battle plan. Please see the battle reports from the bridge of the Aggressor.
“When he found out that Master Plais was dispatched to assist in breaking the Separatist defense he was very angry. I have submitted the security footage from my cabin aboard the Aggressor.
“Jedi master Kopesch had lightsaber burns on his body when he was returned to the Aggressor.” Sera spoke succinctly and without hesitation. Master Immit stood nearby.
“Thank you padawan Wes. The evidence you have provided has been entered into the record.” His voice was calm and collected.
“Thank you for your candor Padawn Wes. This concludes my interview. I will be submitting this along with all of the evidence provided to the council for judgment.”
After the camera droid had been dismissed, Master Immit watched Sera. She had her eyes closed and had steadied her breathing.
“Master Kopesch has been sent to Ryvan to assist in the planet’s reintegration into the Republic.” Master Immit told her. “He left before I could interview him. But I believe you have provided enough evidence to ensure he is put on trial for killing Master Plais.” He smiled.
“I also suspect that you will be exonerated for your actions. I have taken depositions from all of the Teachers who have helped you recover.” He stood and gestured for her to leave the room. “I need one more favor, Padadwan Wes. Please send Padawan Shatergee to see me. I would like to talk to her, privately.” As they approached the door he put his hand on her shoulder and said, “You are knight material. I think that you will be a valuable member of the Order and when the time is right you will make a fine teacher.”
Sera was sitting at a writing table in the Padawans’ shared room when Ima returned. Sera looked up at her friend and smiled.
Ima looked concerned. “He asked me about you, about our relationship.”
Sera stood and walked to her. “Did you tell the truth?”
“I did.” Ima responded.
“Then I have nothing to worry about.” Sera smiled.
Ima placed Sera’s left arm into place. There was a short whirring of the motor locking it to the socket that had been implanted into Sera’s shoulder.
Sera flexed the new limb. She opened and closed the hand and flexed the fingers. It took more effort than she had expected. “I almost forgot how to use my hands. It is going to take a little getting used to.”
As Sera was fitting the right arm Master Immit entered the room. “I see you are finally getting fitted. And just in time it seems.”
Sera looked at Master Immit. She hadn't seen him since the interview.
“I have some good and not so good news.” He stood in front of Sera.
“The council has decided that you will remain in our ranks and, at my urging, you will be promoted to Knight.” He paused.
“Master, I'm not sure I deserve that honor. I still have a lot to learn. I never finished my apprenticeship or took my trials.” Sera looked down.
“Sera, Often Jedi go through trials that surpass even those that most of us go through. Master Callystol agreed with my request.” Sera looked over at the Bothan. She put her hand on Sera’s shoulder and gave it a comforting squeeze.
Sera looked at Ima. She was obviously happy for Sera. “Did you know?” Sera asked her friend?
“Master Immit asked for my opinion. He was worried I might get jealous.
“Even if I were not a Jedi I think you deserve it more than anyone else.”
“You told me you would accept the council’s decision, no matter what.” Master Immit’s smile was infectious. “I intend to hold you to that.”
“You said there was not so good news.”
Master Immit stood silent. He was looking for the proper words.
“In better times those responsible for the death of their comrades would be brought to justice. Unfortunately this war has drained our ranks and we need every experienced Jedi to help bring it to an end.
“Master Kopesch is experienced. The council has decided to postpone the hearing until he is no longer required.” His voice was sober but calm.
“I understand Master. It’s good to know that the council plans to bring him to justice. Master Plais deserves to have the truth of his death known.” Master Immit’s expression turned darker.
“Your first assignment as a Knight is to assist Master Kopesch and the Republic General with the reintegration.”
Ima’s expression showed concern as Sera stared at the wall.
After a few moments Sera looked at the older man “Thank you for all you have done Master Immit. I am grateful for your wisdom and trust.
“When do I leave for Ryvan?”
“There will be a shuttle leaving in a week. You will be accompanying a squad of ARC Troopers. I suggest you take the time to get used to your new arms. As I understand it there is still some fighting. The CIS still controls pockets of resistance on the ground you may be required to fight.” He patted Sera on the shoulder and left the room. “Congratulations Jedi Knight Wes.”
Ima and Sera sparred with training sabers.
Sera had two, as per her usual fighting style. Ima had one held in both hands.
Ima’s abilities were considerable, she had passed the trials with ease and surpassed her mentor in abilities with the lightsaber.
Sera concentrated and tried to read Ima’s thoughts and anticipate her moves. More than a few times Ima had connected with her saber.
The two women circled each other. “You must be out of practice.” Ima suggested.
Sera stepped forward in a feint and Ima stepped back then stepped in. Sera brought her main blade up to parry the swing. Ima’s blade connected with Sera’s then she followed up with several aggressive swings, pushing Sera back. Sera was able to push Ima back and catch her breath.
“I have never used my lightsaber for anything but practice.” Sera told Ima.
“To be honest even if I had not had to pause my training you would be better than me.” Sera admitted. “I wish I would have had more time to learn from you.”
“I’m worried I’ll never see you again. Something is coming.” Ima let the blade drop to her side.
“What do you mean?” Sera walked to the storage rack and put the blades back.
“I don’t know. I have been feeling something dark for a while now.” Ima put her weapon away too.
“I’ll be back. I promise.” Sera put her hand on Ima’s shoulder.
“It's not just you.” Ima looked off in the distance. “I’m not sure we’ll be here when you come back.”
The ARC Trooper commander stood on the boarding ramp of the Nu Class attack shuttle.
Sera held Ima’s hands. “I’ll see you when this is done.I promise.”
Ima seemed happier. “I know. But I don’t know when. Until then stay safe.”
The two women hugged.
Ima watched Sera as she boarded the shuttle.
“Are you ready sir?” The Clone asked.
“Let’s go sergeant.” Sera ordered.
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