Legacy of the Shadow of the Jedi | REMAKE |

5. The Way of the Krayt Dragon

|| Location: Corusca Sector, Coruscant system , Coruscant||

|| Timeline: 99 BBY ||

As Master Tholme and I returned to the Jedi Temple, the weight of our mission on Jandoon still lingered in my mind. The barren, rocky landscape of that planet felt like a distant memory now, replaced by the familiar, serene surroundings of Coruscant. Yet, the tension in the air was palpable. We were about to meet with the Jedi High Council, and the gravity of our recent encounter weighed heavily on me.

We entered the grand chamber where the High Council convened, the room adorned with the symbols of Jedi wisdom and authority. The council members were seated in a semi-circle, their attention immediately drawn to us. Yoda, with his wise eyes and calm demeanor, was seated at the center, flanked by other esteemed members. Though Mace Windu was not yet on the council, his presence could be felt in the shadow of future decisions. Ki-Adi-Mundi, not yet a council member, was still present, his focus sharp and attentive.

"Master Tholme, Padawan Kodo," Yoda greeted, his voice carrying a tone of expectation.

"We have returned from Jandoon," Master Tholme began, his voice steady and respectful. "We encountered the Cult of the Dark Whispers, led by a cultist who wielded an ancient Sith artifact. The battle was intense, but we managed to neutralize the threat."

"Detailed report, you will give," Yoda instructed. "But first, Padawan Kodo, leave us. Alone, Master Tholme and we must be."

I nodded, feeling a mix of nervousness and anticipation. I cast a final glance at Master Tholme before stepping out of the chamber. The heavy door closed behind me with a soft hiss, and I was left in the corridor, the distant hum of the Temple a backdrop to my anxious thoughts. I paced back and forth, my mind racing with possibilities. What could this meeting mean for me?

Minutes felt like hours, but eventually, the door to the council chamber opened again. I was summoned back inside, and as I re-entered, I could feel the shift in the atmosphere. Master Tholme stood beside me, his expression a mixture of pride and seriousness.

"The council has deliberated," Yoda said, his gaze shifting to me. "Speak, Master Tholme, of Padawan Kodo's progress."

Master Tholme stepped forward, his voice resonating with authority and care. "Master Yoda, esteemed members of the council, Kodo has demonstrated remarkable growth since our mission. His dedication to Form Soresu has been commendable, and his recent experience on Jandoon has shown both his strengths and areas for further development."

Master Yoda nodded thoughtfully. "Strengths and weaknesses, what did you see?"

"In the field," Master Tholme continued, "Kodo's defensive capabilities were exceptional, as expected. However, he struggled with the need for aggression and initiative in combat. This was evident during our confrontation with the cultist leader. He could defend effectively but lacked the decisive offensive action needed to turn the tide."

Master Yoda's eyes narrowed slightly, reflecting the weight of Tholme's words. "Potential for growth, Kodo has. What think you of his readiness for Knighthood?"

Master Tholme took a deep breath, his expression serious. "I believe Kodo has the potential to become a Jedi Knight, but only if he is prepared to address his current limitations. If he requests to be considered for Knighthood, I will support that request and endorse his readiness."

"Test of readiness, a Knight must undergo," Yoda mused, turning to the other council members. "Kodo's progress, how assess you?"

Another council member, whose name I didn't know but whose presence was commanding, spoke up. "Tholme's evaluation is valid. Kodo has shown great promise and dedication, but the balance between defense and offense is crucial. If he is willing to confront his shortcomings, the council may consider his readiness."