Legacy of the Shadow of the Jedi | REMAKE |

3. Way of the Mynock

|| Location: Bryx sector, Anzat system , Anzat||

|| Timeline: 102 BBY ||

The sweltering heat of Anzat was a stark contrast to the cool, meditative calm of the Jedi Temple. Each breath I took was heavy with the scent of scorched earth and exotic spices from the local markets. I wiped sweat from my brow and adjusted my stance. My training with Master Tholme had brought me to this rugged world, and today, I faced a new challenge.

Master Tholme had guided me through the intricate maneuvers of Form Soresu, focusing on its defensive prowess. His teachings were always about more than just physical skill; they were lessons in patience and perseverance. However, he had arranged for me to train under Akku Seii, an esteemed master of Anzati martial arts, for a deeper understanding of combat.

"Master Tholme, do you really think I need to learn Anzati techniques?" I asked, as the sun dipped low on the horizon, casting long shadows across the rocky training grounds.

Master Tholme gave me a stern look, his eyes narrowing behind his dark brown robes. "Soresu is a style of defense and patience, Kodo. It is essential to know how to protect oneself. But true mastery comes when you understand your opponent and can use their own methods against them. Akku Seii will help you refine your skills."

With that, Master Tholme gestured towards a distant, sparsely furnished training area. There, standing in a traditional Anzati stance, was Akku Seii. His presence was as commanding as the weapon strapped to his back—a testament to his expertise. His eyes, deep and calculating, assessed me as I approached.

"Welcome, Kodo," Akku Seii said, his voice a deep, resonant timbre that seemed to echo through the air. "Master Tholme has spoken highly of your progress."

I bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Master Seii. I'm eager to learn."

He nodded and motioned me to follow him into a shaded alcove. "The art of Anzati combat is not merely about fighting. It is about understanding the flow of battle, adapting to your opponent, and executing techniques with precision. We will start with the basics."

Our first lesson was a grueling session on balance and fluidity, which involved a series of dynamic movements designed to enhance my agility. I mimicked Akku Seii's movements, my muscles burning with the effort. Every motion was precise, calculated—a blend of efficiency and grace.

After the initial exercises, we moved to a more complex aspect of Anzati training: the application of techniques in combat scenarios. Akku Seii had me spar against a droid, its mechanical precision mirroring the deadly efficiency of Anzati methods. I focused on adapting my Form Soresu techniques to counter the droid's relentless attacks.

"Remember," Akku Seii instructed as I dodged a series of blows, "the key to mastering these techniques is not just in the physical execution but in your mindset. Anzati combat is as much about mental control as it is about physical prowess."

"I'll keep that in mind," I replied, breathless but determined.

As the days turned into weeks, the training sessions became more intense. I practiced striking with speed and accuracy, blending my defensive Form Soresu techniques with the offensive capabilities of Anzati martial arts. Each session with Akku Seii was a lesson in endurance and adaptability.

One evening, after a particularly grueling session, I collapsed onto a nearby rock, taking in the view of the sun setting over the rugged landscape. Akku Seii sat beside me, his expression inscrutable.

"You've made great progress," he said, his voice softer now. "But remember, true mastery is never complete. There is always room to grow, to learn more."