“So… What are you here for?”
Mace opens his eyes and turns to his waiting room companion.
“Annual checkup.” He answers.
The child nods, wise and understanding, before leaning forward to try and peak into the hallway. He doesn’t stop fidgeting for even a moment.
“What are you here for…” he tips his head and catches a glance of braid on the youngling’s other side. “Padawan Yuster?”
Tan beams, proud and excited to be recognized for his new rank. He’s young for it and Mace can vaguely remember him from a beginning meditation class he substituted for a few years back.
“My master says he’s going to take extra classes for me!”
“Is that so?” Mace says, not entirely sure how that leads to a new padawan waiting alone in the healer’s wing.
“Yeah!” Tan nods with enthusiasm. “He says he knows the basics but he’s not human and he’s never had a padawan before so he’s gonna learn!”
“I see.” That would explain it, many master-padawan pairs of different species do the same. Basic first aid knowledge just in case is one thing but the probability of needing to treat a human in less than ideal circumstances skyrockets if your padawan is human.
Mace knows his own master took some human development courses when he was young. He did too, of course, when Depa came along but he imagines the need would have felt even greater if they had been of different species.
“So, I’m going to take some too!” Mace refocuses on his companion.
“Health courses?”
“Yeah!” he announces. “Master Kolar’s a zabrak and I don’t know much about taking care of them.”
Mace raises an eyebrow, the image of this small little human fussing over Agen Kolar has him holding back a smile.
“Did you tell your master about your plans?” He asks.
“Yeah, he just told me that zabraks are tough and I didn’t have to.” The child deflates. “I want to though! We’re gonna be a team!”
Mace does smile at that, a stubborn little helper who may or may not come up to his master’s elbow. Agen was probably flustered by the immediate loyalty.
“Perhaps he didn’t want you to feel pressured.” He suggests. “He is your master.”
“Well, yeah.” Tan tilts his head like that’s obvious. “But what if he gets sick or human disinfectants don’t work on zabraks or something? What if he’s allergic to my soap!?”
“I think it’ll be alright, little one.” Mace sets a hand on Tan's shoulder for a moment. “Your master has managed well enough for a long time.”
“I guess.” He pouts. “I still think I should know stuff.”
“I think that it is very wise to think of others, including those who care for you. I’m sure your master will appreciate it.”
“Thanks Master Windu.” Tan sighs, world weary for all his few years. “I hope Master Kolar will agree.”
Mace smiles a little, considering small padawans and their careful considerations.
“I’m sure he will.” It just might take a little time to get used to.
“Padawan Yuster?” A healer steps out from the hallway. “She’s ready now.”
Tan hops out of his chair and follows.
“May the Force be with you, Padawan Yuster.” Mace calls, just loud enough to carry.
“And with you, Master Windu!” He turns to bow and ducks out of sight.
Mace settles back in his chair to wait.