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"It is true that many Jedi have been called. I am here on a more personal quest - I have come in search of someone."
"Surely then there would be no shortage of bounty hunters for such a task, skilled or otherwise?"
"The person I have come looking for is a threat to this world and many others," the Jedi Master replied, "I must neutralize that threat. No bounty hunter possesses the necessary subtlety for the task, nor the skill."
Neomi was silent, and the master seemed very weary at that moment. "You look tired, Master Jedi," Neomi said.
Murlynd sighed and was quiet for many moments before replying. "I forsee a war coming - a great conflict that will span the bredth of the galaxy. When the war ends, it will not be celebrated but will instead see the dawn of a new era.... this is to be my final quest in this role. I need to retire to become the protector of a single world. Many people will need me soon."
Neomi had remained silent as the great Jedi spoke. "You speak of a war... should you not join the other Jedi in preventing that war? Are the Jedi not skilled mediators? Surely preventing a war is more important than searching for one person?"
Murlynd rested his chin on his knuckles. "The Jedi are skilled at many things... but nothing will stop the coming conflict. I seek this person as an atonement. My time as a Jedi has passed, and others must now carry on in my stead."
Acting on an impulse which she could not explain, Neomi said boldly, "Then I must ask you to train me as a Jedi! Train me so that I can continue on with the work that you have started! Pass on your skills, please!"
Murlynd closed his eyes and shook his head slowly, a faint smile on his face. When he looked at her again, he said "It is very brazen for a learner to seek a Master. No, I could not ask that of you, and you should not seek such a destiny." He stood as if to leave.
"Wait!" Neomi pleaded. Murlynd paused and turned to her. "You will not train me... but will you let me help you in what you must do? It is the least I can do in return for your kindness."
Murlynd's face softened. "Where I go will be most dangerous... but I certainly could use a guide."
To be continued.