A letter written by Initiate R’kio, concerning the camping trip led by Knight Cade Holden, who led his Padawans and three Initiates to an ancient meditation site.
“I was asked to go on a camping trip with Cade Holden. I never did ask why he wanted me out of the five others, but I was happy to go! He even pointed out a book that would help me in my knowledge.
“The time set to begin our journey was about mid-day. It does seem a little late, but I did not question it as much. The late start would allow me to tend to my morning routine of grooming my fur. I got some fruit about mid-day for lunch and made my way to the gathering spot.
“The initial walk towards the woods was uneventful. Or rather I thought it was. While we were catching our breaths and taking a drink break, A Brith flew over our heads. I missed it, and was later told it. I wished I was paying attention. And nearby was a Graul. I did not know the Graul was nearby. So there were things happening, I just ended up missing them.
“We traveled for a long while and came to a dense forest tree line. Cade asked us as a group which direction we wanted to go in. Either around the forest or through the forest. I personally wanted to see how wide the treeline was and wanted to go around. But the group eventually decided to go through the forest.”
“Dantooine is a beautiful place. When we entered the forest, I was reminded of the forests of Kushibah. The plants here are obviously different. I guess that’s why I got caught in vines. A few thrashes and kicks and struggles, and I was free. I’m still picking some small plant rippings from my lower fur coat.
“When we re-grouped together, and continued the walk through the forest. We came across a Kath Hound. I am not familiar with the creatures of Dantooine, but they reminded me of Xinkra. Albeit a little different. The Kath Hound growled when we approached. I was frozen with fear. My ears dropped, and my fur changed to dark green without me realizing it. My fur would have blended me in perfectly with the forests of Kushibah. Riordan, Talia and Cade were not afraid of the creature. I saw a creature that should be feared, and the growling was a warning. But the three saw a frightened creature, one that needed help. Cade was able to heal the creature using the force. I did not think something like that could be done. I am embarrassed that I could not be brave enough to notice the creature was hurt. My first response would have been to go around. The Jedi I saw in the forest had a calming effect on the creature. The force, I am told, connects all things. Through the force they calmed an aggressive beast. I wonder if this could be amplified. But those are thoughts for later.
“We managed to walk through the forest and found a camping area. The sky was clear and the weather was pleasant. Everyone ate sugary sweets. I tried them once, they uh… did not agree with me. I guess Kushiban cannot eat the same things most of the galaxy can. Then again, most of the galaxy species are omnivores. Riordan had some dried fruit for me. Those was sweet enough! Cade asked us what made us want to be Jedi. We all had our unique answers. One thing I will regret is not asking Cade what made him want to be a Jedi. Given the chance, I would like to.
“The next day we reached the small mountain. The climb up was really steep. The pack I was given was pretty heavy. Normally, my kind can climb easily. I defaulted to asking for help. Sestri allowed me to ride on their backpack while climbing. She bumped her head on a rock. I do hope it was not because of me.
“We climbed up to a cave that was midway up the mountain. Entering we found an ancient meditation area. The Jedi of old had come here to meditate. I got a chance to witness the history of the cave through a vision. The others had similar visions. This was an enlightening experience. One I would definitely love to experience again.
The end of the letter is signed with a picture of R’kio’s smiling face.