Early Life & Training

Carsus Hillbrand was discovered as an infant on a war-ravaged Outer Rim world by a Devaronian Jedi Watchman, Master Kelnis Varr. Sensing the child’s latent connection to the Force, Kelnis brought him to the Jedi Temple on Coruscant, where he was raised among the younglings of the Heliost Clan. From a young age, Carsus excelled in martial training, meditation, and academic study, particularly philosophy, art, and the deeper mysteries of the Force.

​

Unlike some of his peers, Carsus was introspective, often found sketching temple architecture or studying ancient Jedi texts. His artistic sensibilities extended to his combat style—he approached dueling as a form of expression, favoring precise, fluid movements over brute strength.

​

At age 14, he successfully passed his Initiate Trials, demonstrating a natural affinity for Form III: Soresu and deep emotional control. He was then selected as a Padawan by Jedi Knight Viil Taka, a Rodian Jedi known for her wisdom and scholarly pursuits.

​

The Great Galactic War & Early Knight Years

Carsus' first real combat experience was a defining moment. While traveling aboard a Republic cruiser, his ship was ambushed by Sith forces. When a Sith Lord struck down Viil Taka, Carsus froze in fear, unable to act as his Master suffered critical injuries. This failure haunted him for years, fueling relentless self-discipline. He threw himself into rigorous training, determined to never hesitate again in the face of danger.

​

Following the Sacking of Coruscant, Carsus—now 18 years old—was stationed on Tython, where he recovered from the war’s toll and deepened his studies in Jedi philosophy and battle meditation. Though a capable warrior, he often sought diplomatic and nonviolent solutions, a stance that earned him both admiration and criticism from fellow Jedi.

​

By age 23, Carsus achieved the rank of Jedi Knight and took on his first apprentice, Veddi-Naz Khota, a human from Rhen Var known for her curiosity and tactical brilliance. Unlike many Jedi of the time, Carsus was hesitant to send his apprentice into battle, believing the Jedi’s purpose extended beyond war. This cautious approach strained his relationship with war-hardened Jedi, some of whom saw him as too hesitant and idealistic.

​

Tensions, Loss, and the Burdens of War

Despite his preference for teaching and diplomacy, the Jedi Order was still deeply entangled in conflict. As the war with the Sith continued, Carsus trained new generations of Jedi, emphasizing emotional resilience over raw combat prowess.

​

By age 30, the Sith Empire launched a full-scale invasion of Tython. Forced into direct combat once more, Carsus fought alongside his former students, many of whom looked to him as both a warrior and mentor. In the following years, Carsus reluctantly took on a second Padawan, Ozeil Kul, a headstrong Duros who sought battle over diplomacy.

​

Tragically, Ozeil perished during the Eternal Empire’s assault, falling in battle against Zakuulan forces. The loss shattered Carsus, reinforcing his belief that Jedi should be more than just soldiers. He withdrew from frontline engagements and instead dedicated himself to rebuilding the Jedi Order, taking a senior role at the Tython Enclave.

​

Mastery, Legacy, and a Watchful Eye on the Future

Now 45 years old, Carsus Hillbrand is a seasoned Jedi Master and one of the Order’s most respected mentors and historians. He has become a leading advocate for Jedi who wish to focus on diplomacy, healing, and education, rather than war. While he no longer actively seeks conflict, he remains a capable warrior, always prepared to defend his students and the Order if necessary.

​

Though some Jedi see him as overly cautious, many—including younger generations—respect his wisdom. His teachings on emotional resilience, self-discipline, and the philosophy of the Force have become foundational for many Jedi initiates. He remains vigilant for future threats, understanding that while war may fade, darkness always seeks to return.