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Agate Gua'lara, a Force-sensitive human female, possessed a unique talent for creature handling. Her early lack of formal Jedi training led her to question some of the rigid Jedi Order's rules. Despite her reservations, she held deep respect for her Jedi Masters, from whom she gained valuable insights into walking the path of the light. She conducted extensive off-world studies on various aspects of nature and creatures. One of her specific areas of expertise was delving into 'The Lore of Guarlara'.
Character History
Early Life
- "Planting a tree is an act of charity."
- ―Gua'lara Tribe's proverb
The Gua'lara Family and AndreaAgate was born on planet Naboo in 1 BBY. She grew up in the family of an ancient tribe named Gua'lara. Her father, Zircon Gua'lara, and her mother, Beryl Gua'lara, were respected members of this tribe. Agate was the eldest of three siblings; her younger sister was named Kunzite, and the youngest was Iolite.
The Gua'lara tribe had a storied history of breeding and taming the creatures known as Guarlaras long before these majestic beasts became the noble steeds of the royal family. Due to their distinguished ability to form bonds with and train the Guarlaras, the tribe earned the moniker 'The Guarlara Whisperers.' It is believed that over time, the name 'Gua'lara' evolved from their ancestral connection to the 'Guarlara' creatures, symbolizing their expertise and legacy as breeders.
One of the core teachings passed down from parent to child was a deep reverence for nature. Agate parents instilled in their children a profound respect for the environment and all the creatures that inhabit it. They believed that the balance and harmony of the natural world were essential for the tribe's well-being, and they taught their children not to harm or destroy the delicate ecosystems that sustained their community.
Agate possessed a unique ability to connect with, build bonds with, and communicate with creatures. Her parents also realized her strong affinity with the Force. Some members of the tribe harnessed the Force to tame these creatures. She had a favorite, loyal male Guarlara named Andrea. He was a massive male Guarlara with a pair of horns on his head. Despite his large and powerful physique, he had a gentle, patient, and calm disposition. Agate cherished the time she spent with him, often taking trips to the hill to enjoy the city view and the distant waterfalls.
Agate's remarkable talent allowed her to communicate with other creatures as a creature handler. She shared a unique bond with her loyal Guarlara, Andrea, and could even ride him without the need for a saddle and bridle. Nevertheless, she continued to use tack and equipment during training sessions, considering that others who lacked her extraordinary ability also rode Andrea.
Life on Naboo
Agate and Andrea on NabooLong ago, Agate's ancestors were traders and breeders who formed agreements to work with the Royal family, specializing in the breeding and training of the majestic Guarlaras. Through advanced breeding techniques and agreements, the Gua'lara family's descendants prospered, accumulating wealth. They established their homes near Theed, the capital city of Naboo, where Guarlara statues adorned the streets, symbolizing nobility, loyalty, and strength.
However, not all of Agate's ancestors chose to live in or near the capital. Her family maintained a small ranch not far from the city, while some of her relatives resided in remote locations, including the snowy northern mountains of Naboo.
During Agate's childhood, her family often visited these remote regions, exploring the vast landscapes and encountering the wild and feral Guarlaras roaming freely. It was during these visits that they interacted closely with tribe members who adhered to more traditional breeding methods.
For Agate, these experiences left a lasting impression. She felt a stronger connection to the Force and developed a growing desire to learn more about it. Exploring meadows and wandering through forests, Agate found solace in the natural beauty around her, even if it occasionally resulted in minor wounds and scars on her arms and legs. These trips also exposed her to captivating local celebrations, such as the Festival of Glad Arrival in the Lake Country. However, they also led to encounters with daunting, giant aquatic creatures that sometimes approached local fishermen.
Guarlaras held significant importance in the lives of the people of Naboo, particularly within the realms of tradition, social hierarchy, and economy. The divergence in perspectives between traditionalist societies and monarchical groups was evident in their treatment and management of Guarlaras, as well as their differing views on sentient and non-sentient relationships within these respective groups.
These disparities often sparked conflicts or tensions within Naboo's society. With a background deeply rooted in traditional values, Agate assumed a crucial role in comprehending and reconciling these differences to foster mutual understanding.
Education
Agate's education took place at the schools and academies of Theed, where she developed a deep love for exploring the city's galleries, libraries, and museums. During her time at school, she encountered a fellow classmate named Balia Donos. While Balia was often reserved and didn't interact much with his peers, Agate had a sense that he carried a mysterious air about him.
In her teenage years, Agate began hearing rumors about Balia's involvement in a significant incident, one that ultimately led to his sudden disappearance. As time passed, Balia's name faded into obscurity, and Agate didn't expect to hear about him again.
However, her life took an unexpected turn when she met her future Jedi master later in life, Sa Ool, who disclosed that he had crossed paths with Balia on Naboo, shedding new light on the enigmatic past of her former classmate.
Agate's education in Theed exposed her to a wealth of knowledge in art, biology, history, and diplomacy. However, she soon realized that there was a significant gap in her understanding when it came to the Force. The mystical and powerful aspects of the Force fascinated her, yet she found a lack of substantial references in the materials she had access to in Theed.
Driven by a deep curiosity and a longing to connect with the Force, Agate made the decision to seek out the Jedi, the guardians of the Force. She believed that the Jedi, with their deep understanding of the Force, could provide her with the guidance and knowledge she sought.
Additionally, Agate held a profound interest in the creatures beyond the boundaries of her home planet, Naboo. She yearned to explore and understand the diverse life forms that inhabited other worlds. Her quest to learn about creatures from various planets and her desire to comprehend the Force became intertwined, forming the foundation for her journey as a Jedi.
First Contact with the Jedi
It wasn't hard to find the Jedi representative at Theed, given Naboo's significant influence in politics and trade routes. The Jedi Embassy was conveniently located near the Theed Royal Palace. One of the Jedi, Aura Ta'var, instructed Agate to go to Kiast. She felt a bit anxious about leaving her home planet, but her excitement for new adventures outweighed her apprehension. With mixed emotions, she made her way to the Naboo Space Station and embarked on her journey to Kiast.
Arrival on Kiast
At the temple on Kiast, she was greeted by members of Clan Odan-Urr, where Agate delved into Jedi teachings upon joining the clan. After acquiring fundamental Jedi knowledge, she dedicated her time to studying the archives. Subsequently, she was introduced to Master Sa Ool, who would instruct her in the art of lightsaber forms.
Sa Ool served as a lightsaber instructor, catering to younglings and other Jedi seeking to master different forms. Agate was eager to learn the fundamentals of lightsaber combat. She began her training with a practice blade before progressing to the use of a real lightsaber. Under Master Sa's expert guidance, Agate successfully completed her basic lightsaber training. While her lightsaber skills remained average, she honed them primarily for defensive purposes.
Exploring Solyiat
Agate's primary ability as a creature handler led her on a unique journey to the planet of Solyiat. Solyiat, once a pristine world, had seen rapid industrialization and the establishment of numerous mining facilities. As new regions were discovered, so were valuable resources and advanced technologies. However, this development came at a significant cost to the planet's natural habitat.
The uncontrolled exploitation of Solyiat's resources led to the displacement of many native species. The creatures of Solyiat lost their homes as their habitats were destroyed to make way for mining operations. The Empire, seeking to assert control over the planet, resorted to manipulating the creatures using the dark side of the Force. This malevolent influence made the native beings more aggressive, and they began to attack local populations and sometimes even initiate incidents near mining facilities.
Agate found herself at the intersection of this environmental crisis and conflict. Her journey on Solyiat would not only test her abilities as a creature handler but also challenge her commitment to the conservation of the planet's unique ecosystems. The delicate balance between industrial progress, the dark influence of the Empire, and the preservation of Solyiat's natural wonders would shape the adventures that lay ahead.
Displaced Animals on Solyiat
The displaced animals, which lost their natural habitat and were influenced by the dark side, approached the local mines, injuring and killing some of the workers. Although many of the armed forces tried to kill the creatures, Agate and her team used their abilities to handle them. At some point, her new experiences in opposing the dark force made her unstable and fall into it. Once, she couldn't stand the dark influence, and in anger, she eliminated the animals. Although she could save the local residents' lives from the attack, from the viewpoint of creature handlers, the mission was considered a failure. Frustrated and depressed, she rested, meditated, and sought guidance.
One night, the hideous, Varritul terrified the colony. The creature handler team combined their abilities to communicate with and control the creature. The mission succeeded. The Varritul was successfully tamed and flew back to the mountainous region. Since then, many of the local residents have changed their perception of the creatures. They learned that the beasts had many similarities to other sentient beings. Therefore, the local residents respected the creatures and wanted to get to know them better.
The Sanctuary
The Creature Handler team constructed the Animal Sanctuary to provide care and protection to creatures in distress. These animals were often sick, injured, trapped, or affected by the dark side. Once the creatures had made a full recovery, the team released them back into the wild, where they belonged. A few of these creatures opted to remain, becoming tamed animals or beloved pets. The locals celebrated the moment as the Friends of Beasts Day. Those events reminded her about the story of her ancestors who tamed the first Guarlara on Naboo.
Additional Training
Agate paid a visit to V'yr Vorsa, her new master, to continue her training. During her time with Vorsa, she was also introduced to Novnora, Vorsa's Krayt dragon. Most of Agate's training sessions with Vorsa focused on physical exercises.
Returned to Naboo
After her journey as a Jedi, Agate eventually returned to her home planet. There, she built a family with a partner who deeply understood the significance of the Gua'lara traditions to Agate. Together, they continued the strong traditions passed down by the ancient Gua'lara ancestors for generations, maintaining their bond with the Guarlara creatures and upholding the values of their family heritage.
Death
Agate died at her home on planet Naboo.
Characteristics
Physical Description
Creature HandlerAgate had olive, light brown skin, blue eyes, and dark brown hair. Her hair was kept in long layers that fall around her face. She had small scars on her arms and legs and prefered natural makeup.
Powers and Abilities
Agate possessed a unique set of skills and abilities that made her a remarkable individual. Her primary calling was as a creature handler, a role where she displayed an exceptional affinity for connecting with and controlling creatures, a talent amplified by her profound connection with the Force. Additionally, she excelled in crafting and healing. Agate was proficient in the use of a lightsaber, particularly in Primary Lightsaber Form 0. Her martial arts expertise included whiptree as her primary form and sliding hands as her secondary discipline.
Personality
Agate's love for nature and conservation showcased her empathy for the environment and deep concern for the natural world around her. Her interest in arts and crafts exhibited her creative side, a desire to express herself, and artistic skills. Agate's curiosity about lore and history indicated a strong interest in the past, heritage, or culture surrounding her. While not as passionate as her mother, Agate's interest in culinary arts added a new dimension to her activities and engagement in various art forms.
Lore of Guarlara
Agate's Enchantment with Guarlara Lore
From her early years, Agate held a profound fascination for the elegant creatures known as Guarlara, wandering the grasslands of Naboo. Her inquisitiveness about these beings embarked her on an intriguing journey into their existence and history. Numerous aspects intrigued her, ranging from their distinctive biology to their significant role in the planet's history.
However, the one aspect that most captivated Agate was the conservation efforts to protect the Guarlara and their increasingly threatened habitat. Agate brought a deep sense of responsibility towards the nature she loved. However, aside from the biological and conservation aspects, Agate also discovered that Guarlara had an important place in Naboo's rich art and culture.
As time went on, Agate let her passion lead her to a deeper understanding of these creatures, and in the process, she became an expert in the Lore of Guarlara.
Guarlara in Art, History and Culture of Naboo
Prehistoric Era
The earliest evidence of Guarlara's existence can be traced back to ancient cave paintings discovered near the Naboo grasslands. These cave walls held significance to the early human civilizations residing nearby, serving as shelters, workspaces, and historical archives. Among these preserved artworks were depictions of Guarlara, suggesting a historical bond between Naboo's early human inhabitants and the surrounding fauna.
The paintings of guarlaras on cave walls often depicted these creatures with chubby bodies and short legs, potentially reflecting the perception that plump animals symbolized a rich and desirable food source. In early civilizations, these larger or fattier animals were highly valued as they provided ample protein, making them a coveted resource for sustenance. This perspective likely influenced the early stages of animal domestication, driving efforts to optimize these creatures for consumption.
The identity of the first human to ride a guarlara remains a topic of speculation. Nevertheless, local folklore presents various versions of this narrative, with one suggesting that the initial tame guarlara, suitable for riding, was a revered creature gifted by the gods. This folklore, entrenched in Naboo's cultural heritage, shaped their perception of this animal, often revering it as sacred and worthy of respect.
The inception of humans riding guarlaras likely stemmed from practical needs such as mobility, facilitating travel, and enabling exploration of new territories. As humans realized the feasibility of taming these animals for daily tasks, it's probable they began utilizing them for transportation purposes. Although precise historical records are lacking, the convenience of mobility and the practical advantages offered by riding these animals probably played a pivotal role.
Ancient Era
Classical Era
Medieval Era
Modern Era
Guarlaras in Monarchical View
In the context of the Royal Naboo, guarlaras were perceived as more than mere creatures; they were revered as symbols deeply embedded in status and exclusivity. To the Naboo royal family, guarlaras stood as paramount status symbols. Their ceremonial use as mounts, the incorporation of their horns and furs in clothing and tapestries all conveyed more than their animalistic nature – they epitomized power and elevated stature.
The royal perspective accentuated the exclusivity in the relationship with these creatures. Only select individuals, such as members of the royal family or the esteemed royal crusaders, were granted the privilege of riding these majestic beings. This stringent control over access possibly served as a means of preserving and emphasizing their elevated status or privilege.
The royal viewpoint articulated a distinct perception of guarlaras, presenting them not solely as creatures but as emblematic representations of power and distinction. This differs notably from traditional views where guarlaras might have been seen as integrated into everyday life, accessible to the broader community.
Gua'lara Ranch
Vision and Mission
Gua'lara Ranch stood as a symbol of the enduring Gua'lara traditions and harmony with Naboo's environment. Its primary vision was to maintain a close relationship with Guarlaras, safeguard the natural surroundings, and serve as a center for sustainable agricultural technology development.
General Ranch Design
The ranch was meticulously designed, considering the unique needs of the Guarlaras. It emphasized expansive open spaces for roaming, ensured quality feed, and incorporated infrastructure enabling sentient and non-sentient being interaction. Advanced technology monitored the health and well-being of the Guarlaras, a top priority. The building structure, color, decoration, and use of materials in the ranch's infrastructure conformed to the characteristics of Naboo architecture, particularly the classical Naboo style known for its domes and porticos.
Sentient Being Workers
The ranch staff comprised a community well-versed in the unique requirements of Guarlaras and the balance within Naboo's ecosystem. They played a crucial role in nurturing close ties with these creatures, upholding traditions, and maintaining harmony at Gua'lara Ranch.
Collaboration with Droids
Droids played a vital role in sustaining ranch operations, providing technical and logistical assistance, and acting as supervisors for Guarlaras' safety and health. The collaboration between droids and sentient workers was pivotal for the successful management of the ranch.
Alternate Stories
Life on the Smuggler's Moon
Naboo Corner
In an alternate story, the Gua'lara family chose not to raise their children on Naboo. Agate parents were drawn to trade and introduced Naboo culture off-world. They had a deep love for their own culture and a streak of adventure. Agate's mother had a true passion for the culinary arts. After marrying into the Gua'lara family and acquiring the Gua'lara name, they inaugurated their initial cantina right in the heart of Nar Shaddaa, a notorious hub within the vast criminal underworld of the galaxy. The establishment was crafted under a unique homeworld theme, aptly named 'Naboo Corner.' Instead of forsaking their roots, they proudly incorporated elements of their heritage, even choosing the majestic Guarlara creature as the emblem for their cantina.
Agate had never been particularly close to nature, and the idea of having a creature like Andrea was foreign to her. Despite being Force-sensitive, she never pursued the path of becoming a Jedi. Her upbringing was far from the idyllic natural settings of other Force users. Instead, she spent her early years on the bustling city-planet of Nar Shaddaa, often referred to as the "Smuggler's Moon." On Nar Shaddaa, urban sprawl covered every inch of the surface, leaving no room for the beauty of nature.
Her days were occupied with assisting her parents in running their cantina. However, as the years passed and the cantina expanded, Agate found herself with more free time. During these moments, she delved into her passion for art and craft. The cantina's unique theme was a magnet for visitors from all walks of life. Ordinary folks, merchants, businesspeople, smugglers, and even mercenaries frequented the establishment. This diverse clientele introduced her to a multitude of languages and cultures, broadening her horizons in the process.
The menu at the Naboo Corner was diverse, featuring everything from typical cantina fare to unique Naboo dishes. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with Naboo-inspired furniture and sculptures of native creatures. The decor featured soft, light colors, and the cantina stage was the highlight, often adorned with lively performances. The musical theme ranged from jazzy cantina tunes to Naboo's pop orchestral. On certain occasions, Twi'lek dancers and musicians took the stage, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Preserving Naboo Culture
Agate’s parents imparted Gua’lara traditions to their children, sharing holograms, Guarlara miniatures, and books. Once a year, they returned to their home planet, Naboo, for precious family moments. They spent about a week at their relatives' house near Theed City. The sharp contrast between Nar Shaddaa and Naboo often overwhelmed her. Despite this, Agate found herself deeply attached to the urban life she had grown accustomed to. While the idea of settling on Naboo crossed her mind at times, the allure of urban living always drew her back.
CitrineAgate owned a white female Felinx named Bianca, affectionately referred to as Bibi. While they shared a certain level of companionship, Agate's busy life in Nar Shaddaa limited the depth of their bond compared to what it might have been had she lived on Naboo. Agate's main interest was in creativity. She wanted to introduce Naboo culture through art. Agate also developed more abilities as a crafter, and she joined the Street Artist community. She had an octohelper droid named Ozy. The droid had eight hands to help Agate do her jobs. Agate’s life was more diverse, adventurous, but also dangerous. There were many gangsters and criminals on Nar Shadda. Agate often spent her evenings at nightclubs socializing with friends, including Citrine, a Cathar female medic and talented street artist. Citrine had an interesting connection with the Shroud Syndicate, a notorious criminal organization.
Agate's artistic endeavors spanned a spectrum of mediums, ranging from traditional mural paintings to cutting-edge digital and electric art, even experimenting with neon creations. Immersed in the vibrant artist community, she found opportunities for collaborative projects that allowed her to contribute to larger, more impactful works. There were times when she immersed herself so deeply in her art that she spent days away from home to bring her creative visions to life. Despite the alternate story where Agate had less connection with nature on Nar Shaddaa, her urban surroundings fueled her creativity, encouraging her to think outside the conventional artistic boundaries.
Red Nose Tauntaun
Red Nose Tauntaun with ornamentsThe Red Nose Tauntaun was a fantastical character that often appeared alongside Agate in the Winter Wonderland theme during Life Day. It was a white Tauntaun with a round, red nose. This Tauntaun had the ability to fly. Its main activity was exploring the Winter Wonderland, where Agate often rides on its back and soars through the skies.